ThermoWorks Thermapen ONE 1-Second Read Thermometer (various colors) Expired

These are lab calibrated, precise temp reading in a second, auto on/off when you pick it up, waterproof, just overall solid quality as expected.

If you're needing an ok probe, get the $10 one. If you're wanting something you'll buy once and never need to upgrade, even when you become a pro chef, this is the one.

this is always raved on here - can someone explain what's the difference between this and $10 amazon cheapo?

I have both. The differences are both subtle and substantial at the same time. First, this is solid - made of a thicker, more durable shell. The on/off action is reliable - open the thermometer it's on, close it, it's off. The cheap ones often have buttons or mechanisms which are not completely reliable. Is it a big deal? Depends on how cheap you are. The temps are accurate on the expensive thermometer and haven't drifted over the 2 years I've had it. Will it really matter? A couple degrees one way or another won't, anyone telling you different is lying because the temperature across an item in real life cooking will vary by more than the calibration accuracy. I've had cheap thermometers that are right on (ice and boiling tests) and they're simple to test. I've had cheap ones that were off 2-4 degrees F, not really a deal breaker. I've had cheap ones that drifted 10F over a couple of years, too, though. (note: I haven't tested the Thermapen in the last year; it didn't drift in any perceptible way in year one and still feels accurate in use. )

By way of comparison, two decades ago I built a winding staircase and custom handrail from Santos Mahogany with (in part) a $99 Harbor Freight table saw. When I hired my trim carpenter to do the base and door mouldings in the house he said he'd hire me to work for him based on the handrail joinery alone (not knowing the equipment I used). When I had the money I bought a 5 HP Unisaw and a $1000 fence. I will never voluntarily work with a cheap table saw again. It's not that I can't, it's that it's not worth the hassle. Same with the kitchen thermometer.