This is a hands-on review of the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 digital instant-read meat thermometer, including test results, pros and cons, full specs, and my personal assessment.
I give it a thorough going-over with regard to looks, design, and functionality. I cover the many features and their benefits to you and objectively assess what I like and don’t. Plus, I will put it to the test and see how well it performs, and I will provide you with a bunch of pics of it in use as we go.
To wrap it up, I give my final verdict: is the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 a thermometer worth owning, and does it deliver value for your money?
Stick around, folks — this one is worth the read.
Disclosure: ChefsTemp sent me the X10 free of charge so I could test it and write up an honest review. However, this does not affect any opinions expressed, which are entirely honest and solely my own.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
Ratings and Final Verdict
The ChefsTemp Finaltouch X10 stands out as a top-tier meat thermometer.
Its accuracy, speed, and design features, like the 270° rotating probe and large, easy-to-read auto-rotating display, make it exceptionally user-friendly for both right and left-handed users. The IP67 waterproof rating and impressive build quality further enhance its appeal, ensuring it can withstand the rigors of frequent use even in wet weather.
While the price tag is higher than some alternatives, its performance and durability make it a worthwhile purchase for those who take their grilling seriously.
The only slight improvement could be including a rechargeable battery, but given its 3000-hour battery life, this is hardly a concern.
It’s hard to find fault with such a well-rounded tool, making it a highly recommended thermometer that any griller would be proud to own.
In recent years, the instant-read thermometer market has really heated up, with many models now having similar feature sets, performance, build quality. And there’s only so many features you can add to such a piece of equipment.
So if comparing like for like, with two or more models at the same price point, we’re at the stage now where it comes down to individual preferences for looks and design aesthetics. If you like how it looks (and I do!), then you should have no worries about dropping money on this one.
Pros
- An accuracy of ±1 °F is excellent.
- Super-fast read time of between 1 and 2 seconds.
- Excellent build quality, feeling highly durable with a good weight and feel in the hand.
- Large, backlit, high-contrast, auto-rotating display for easy reading in any light or angle.
- 270 degrees of probe rotation is better than most at 180. Particularly good for left-handed users.
- Nice looking design, with clean lines and looks
- Waterproof (IP67 rated), allowing for easy cleaning and durability in wet conditions.
- Motion-activated wake-up mode for convenience.
- Up to 3,000 hour use on one battery is outstanding.
Cons
- Its size. It is bulkier compared to some other instant read thermometers I own.
- Seems to be exclusively available from only ChefsTemp, limiting purchase options and potentially customer support.
Who Should Buy This Product, and Who Should Not?
I honestly think that any outdoor cooking enthusiast would be happy to own the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10. It’s fast, accurate, and built to last, which are the most important things in this product class.
Left-handers should consider this model seriously because there aren’t many instant-read thermometers on the market with a 270° rotating probe and auto-rotating display. Most probes only go to 180°, and that extra 90° you will really appreciate.
The IP67 waterproof rating makes it incredibly versatile and suitable for outdoor use in all kinds of weather. If you think you’ll get your thermometer wet, not many are as weather-resistant as this.
On the flip side, the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 might not be the best investment for casual grillers or those who only occasionally barbecue. Its premium features and price point are geared toward individuals who need serious tools and are happy to pay for them. So, if your outdoor cooking is limited to occasional gatherings, there are more basic thermometers at lower price points that are good enough for your needs.
A very fast, accurate thermometer with a 270° rotating probe, a big, sharp, auto-rotating display, motion-activated wake-up mode, IP67 waterproof, and impressive build quality. Also a winner of the red dot designs award 2022, this is an impressive, easy-to-use, highly functional product.
Note: At the time of writing, this thermometer is only available from ChefsTemp themselves, at the link below.
Our Ratings Explained
Based on information gathered during my hands-on testing in real-world use, here are the ratings and explanations for the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 meat thermometer:
Accuracy
ChefsTemps marketing boasts an impressive ±0.5 °F accuracy, making it one of the most precise thermometers on the market. This level of accuracy is crucial for ensuring your meats are cooked perfectly every time.
As you can see in my tests later on in this review, this accuracy proved true. It’s incredibly accurate, and I’m perfectly happy to rely on its readings.
However, there are competitors with higher advertised accuracy, so I cannot give a full 10 points.
Score: 9/10.
Response Time
While it’s among the fastest thermometers available, there is a slight ambiguity between the claimed 1-second reading time and the 2 to 3 seconds noted on the packaging.
In my tests I found a read time of between 1 to 3 seconds to be true. So, although it performs brilliantly, this mismatch prevents a perfect score.
Score: 9/10.
Ease of Use
With its intuitive design, including a 270-degree rotating probe and an auto-rotating display, the Finaltouch X10 is exceptionally user-friendly.
Features like motion-activated wake-up and a large, easy-to-read display further enhance its ease of use.
It’s hard to find ANY fault in its usability, so it gets full marks.
Score: 10/10.
Build Quality and Durability
The FinalTouch X10’s robust build quality is seen in its IP67 waterproof rating and the use of high-quality materials. It is’s designed to withstand the rigors of frequent use in any cooking environment, indoors or outside. Winning a Red Dot Design Award highlights its excellence in this area too.
However, without long-term use data, it’s prudent to reserve a small margin in the rating.
Score: 9/10.
Battery Life
With an impressive battery life of up to 3000 hours, the FinalTouch X10 is up there with the best. But the reliance on AAA batteries instead of a rechargeable option means I have to deduct a point.
Score: 9/10.
Additional Features
The thermometer comes packed with additional features like a magnetic backing for easy storage, NSF certification for safety, and an intelligent backlight for visibility in low-light conditions. These features definitely enhance its overall appeal.
However, when compared to a competitor or two that offer wired probes for constant monitoring and connectivity options like Bluetooth, there’s a slight room for improvement.
Score: 9/10.
General Overview
The FinalTouch X10 is a probe-style instant-read thermometer designed for “get in and get out” instant temperature readings. And while we here are focused on its prowess with grilled and BBQed meat, it’s also useful for bakers, candy makers, kitchen chefs, and more.
This thermometer stands out with its 270° rotating probe and large, easy-to-read, auto-rotating LCD screen. Its impressive build quality features an IP67 waterproof rating and a design that won the Red Dot Award in 2022.
To operate the X10, extract the four-inch stainless steel probe from its slot in the main body, rotate it to the most convenient orientation, and insert the tapered end into your food. The temperature displays on the large LCD on the front of the unit, letting you know if it’s time to eat or if your food needs more time on the grill.
The FinalTouch X10 is one of several thermometers on the market with an auto-rotating screen; the display “flips” according to the unit’s orientation, so the numbers are never upside-down.
ChefsTemp claims a 1 second reading time on their website, although the packaging claims a 2 to 3 second reading time. I test this and report my findings in a section below.
Both sources claim an accuracy of ±0.5 °F in a temperature range of -22 to 392 °F. We also put these claims to the test and reveal our findings further down.
Manufacturer Specs
- Range: -22 to 572 °F (-30.0 to 300.0°C)
- Accuracy: ±0.5°F (±0.3°C) from -22 to 392°F, (-30.0 to 199.9°C) otherwise ±1.8°F (±1.0°C)
- Resolution: Factory set to 0.1 °
- Response time: 1 second readout
- Probe: 4.0 Inches, type K thermocouple
- Display: 47.3H X 19.5W mm | 1.86H X 0.77W inch rotates 180°, intelligent backlight
- Sleep mode: Backlight turns off in 60 seconds
- Waterproof: IP67
- Operating range: -4 to 122°F (-20 to 50°C)
- Battery: AAA batteries x2
- Dimensions: 6.69H x 1.57W x 0.9 D inches (169H x 40W x 24D mm)
- Weight: 0.27lbs (125g)
- Units: °C/°F Switchable
Why You Can Trust Us
Owning the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 has allowed me to put it through its paces, comparing it directly with the many other instant read thermometers I’ve had since I began my BBQ journey in 2005, and the more than 10 that I own as we speak.
So, my review is grounded in direct experience, having tested the FinalTouch X10 alongside numerous other thermometers in my collection.
Also, I’ve sifted through countless others’ reviews and engaged with community feedback, on top of leveraging my own experiences to understand how the FinalTouch X10 stacks up against competitors.
And my commitment to providing honest, transparent reviews has been unwavering for over five years on this site, ensuring you receive advice from a knowledgeable and impartial source.
Rest assured, my review of the FinalTouch X10 is influenced by nothing other than my dedication to helping fellow BBQ enthusiasts find the best tools for the job.
A very fast, accurate thermometer with a 270° rotating probe, a big, sharp, auto-rotating display, motion-activated wake-up mode, IP67 waterproof, and impressive build quality. Also a winner of the red dot designs award 2022, this is an impressive, easy-to-use, highly functional product.
Note: At the time of writing, this thermometer is only available from ChefsTemp themselves, at the link below.
In-Depth Review and Test Results
In my hands-on testing of the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10, I focused on its performance in real-world grilling scenarios. Over several weeks, I used it to measure the internal temperatures of various meats, including thick steaks, chicken, lamb leg, and delicate fish fillets.
I tested its speed and accuracy against known temperature benchmarks, such as boiling water and ice water, to ensure it lived up to its claims. I tried it in both daytime and nighttime conditions to assess the readability of its display.
My approach to testing the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 was thorough and practical. I integrated the thermometer into my regular BBQ routines, using it to monitor the cooking process of everything from briskets requiring long, slow cooking to vegetables grilled for short periods.
Here are the details of what I found.
What’s in the Box?
The FinalTouch X10 comes nicely packaged inside a black plastic tray that is then packed inside a fine-looking box, not a blister pack like some instant-read thermometers.
On the box is printed a QR code you can scan to download a free recipe book, a social media handle, their address, and website URL.
Inside the tray in the box is the thermometer itself, with two AAA batteries already installed.
You also get a small but comprehensive instruction manual covering all the functions and how to use them. Additionally, inside there are troubleshooting instructions, temperature charts for meat, water, candy, sugar, and other foods, and a QR code to help you connect with the ChefsTemp community and access free e-cookbooks.
First Impressions
This is a substantial-looking piece of equipment that fits solidly in the palm of your hand. It has some heft, too; the FinalTouch X10 weighs about as much as a “quarter pounder” patty (or a “Royale with Cheese”). It is, as the kids say, a “chonky boi.”
The stylish lines suggest a quality product, and the two-tone gray finish has a professional look about it. There’s a line of orange where the back and front meet; perhaps that makes it easier to spot in the dark?
Speaking of “easy to spot,” there’s no missing that oversize, white-on-black LCD! Kudos to the design team for understanding we don’t all have perfect vision.
So, I’d say my first impressions are entirely favorable. Now, it’s time to go beneath the surface.
Design and Build Quality
This thermometer style is limited when it comes to design; they all look essentially the same. Having said that, the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 is robust yet modern and ergonomic, looking professional, reliable, and user-friendly all at once. It has all the design features you’d expect in this category and from a unit that’s among the priciest options.
The thermometer comes with a silver-based antimicrobial embedded in durable plastic housing. According to ChefsTemp, it’s 99% effective at repelling bacteria growth, which is reassuring considering it’s basically always going to be around undercooked meat. And, since it’s waterproof, you’ll have no trouble keeping it clean and safe.
All in all, I’m pleased with the build quality. I haven’t had it long, but I expect it to be around for many years to come.
Benefits and Features
Among the many features of the X10, two really stand out: the 270-degree probe rotation and the auto-rotating display. Let’s look at these first.
Most thermometers with a flip-out probe allow for rotation to 180 degrees. In other words, the probe and the thermometer’s body form a straight line at maximum rotation. The X10 rotates to 270 degrees, which is three-quarters of a complete circle.
In practical terms, that means if you’re a lefty, you can hold the X10 in your left hand and use the probe at a 90-degree angle relative to your position and still look at the front of the unit. Such a wide range of motion provides maximum versatility for approaching your food from virtually any angle.
Coupled with that, you have the auto-rotating LCD. To save you from craning your neck, the display flips its orientation so that it’s always right-side up (based on the long axis), no matter which way you’re holding the thermometer. It’s a genuinely ambidextrous thermometer that saves you from wasting time figuring out how to probe your meat.
Sticking with the LCD, it’s also large and easy to read, with a high-contrast white-on-black display. Thanks to the intelligent backlight, you’ll have no trouble seeing the readout under any lighting conditions, including pitch-black; it comes on automatically when you move the unit.
Like most thermometers in this category, the X10 powers up when unfolding the probe. Folding it back in again shuts it off. But, if you leave it unfolded, it will go into sleep mode after 3 minutes to conserve the battery. Moving the unit again wakes it up.
Keeping the X10 clean will be easy, thanks to the waterproof housing. It’s rated IP67, which means you can submerge it completely to a depth of about a yard (or 1 meter) for up to 40 minutes. Not that you should do that, but at least you know you can give it a thorough wash — and it won’t die a soggy death if you accidentally leave it out in the rain for a bit.
We’ll talk more about speed later, but suffice to say, the FinalTouch X10 lives up to the moniker “instant-read.” With accurate readings in about 1 second, not only do you know exactly how close to done your meat is, but you can also get in and out without worrying about burning your hand.
Though it comes pre-calibrated from the factory, you can recalibrate it yourself, should you feel the need. Unscrew the battery compartment lid, and you’ll find a calibration button (and another button to flip back and forth from C to F).
Simply stir some ice water with the probe and use the button to set the freezing point (32 °F or 0 °C). Though you may never need to use this feature, it’s good to know it’s there. If you happen to live at a very high altitude, this could improve the accuracy of your readings.
Note: As I removed the battery compartment a tiny little see-through rubber washer fell off one of the screws. Be mindful of this, as I’m sure it helps to seal the battery compartment and plays a part in the IP67 waterproof rating. The thermometer may have suffered water ingress in future had I not noticed and lost it!
Convenience features on the X10 include a built-in magnet on the back to stick it to the fridge, the gazebo pole, or the stainless steel side shelf (assuming you have any of those things) and a hole for hanging it on a tool hook.
With this combo of storage options, your thermometer should always be right where you need it WHEN you need it, which is vital when you’re cooking the perfect steak and every second — and degree — counts.
Ease of Use
It would be tough for this product to be any easier to use.
There’s no power button; the FinalTouch X10 powers up automatically as soon as you flip out the probe.
The tip is so sensitive that you can take a reading with only 0.2” of the probe inserted into your food, which is fantastic for very thin cuts of meat.
It’s fast, it’s accurate, the screen flips orientation automatically, and there is no “wrong” angle thanks to the 270-degree rotation of the probe.
The performance is professional-grade, but even someone grilling for the first time can confidently use this thermometer.
Accuracy
As covered in the specs section, ChefsTemp claims accuracy of ±0.7 °F between -22 and 392 °F. That more than covers the range we need for grilling.
Response time is given as 1.0 second flat on the website but 2 to 3 seconds on the product packaging.
Looking at accuracy, I did the usual cold water and boiling water tests to see how the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 performed.
Ice Water Test
I placed a handful of ice cubes into cold water, and then placed the jug into the freezer for 10 minutes to bring the water to as close to freezing as possible.
Water freezes at 32 °F. And although the tap water I use may be a little lower due to impurities, it will still be very close to 32 °F.
The FinalTouch X10 measured between 31.8 °F and 32.1 °F in this ice water test. This is incredibly close, even closer than the ±0.7 °F tolerance advertised by ChefsTemp themselves. So this is an easy pass.
Boiling Water Test
Water boils at 212 °F at sea level and gets lower the higher you are above sea level. I live very close to sea level, so I do not need to factor this into things.
The FinalTouch X10 measured between 211.5 °F and 212.2 °F in this boiling water test. This proves it is accurate and again proved more accurate than even the advertised ±0.7 °F. So again, this is an easy pass.
Speed of Reading
ChefsTemp says it’s the “fastest thermometer in the world.” But as discussed above, there’s some confusion as to what the speed of reading is supposed to be. Is it 1 second or less per the ChefsTemp website, or 2 to 3 seconds per the thermometers packaging?
In my testing, I found it takes anything between 1 and 3 seconds, depending on how far from room temperature the reading is that you are taking.
So I am unable to verify the 1 second read time claim. Perhaps maybe they mean reading refresh rate? That the display of temperature is updated once per second?
I’m not sure, but what I can say is it’s a blazingly fast thermometer, at least as fast or faster than any other instant-read thermometer I own apart from the Thermoworks Thermapen One that I recently tested. I have no complaints in this area, and I’m certain that neither can anyone else. It’s incredibly quick!
What Do Others Say?
The review of the ChefsTemp Finaltouch X10 on Hey Grill, Hey is mostly positive, highlighting its robust features and solid construction as major selling points. The thermometer is praised for its world-class speed and accuracy, making it stand out in the instant-read thermometer market. They praise the 270-degree rotating probe, large and easily readable display, auto-rotating display for ease of use at any angle, and IP67 waterproof rating.
However, the review does touch on some discrepancies between the product’s advertised and actual performance, specifically regarding its reading speed and accuracy when compared to other high-end thermometers.
Despite these minor criticisms, the review maintains a positive outlook on the FinalTouch X10, recommending it as a cost-effective alternative to more expensive models.
The review of the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 Thermometer on TailgateMaster.com is overwhelmingly positive. They praise quick and accurate readings, ease of use, and simple and sreamlined design. They praise its single-button operation, large and easy-to-read display, the convenience of automatically turning on when the probe is opened, and the display’s visibility in both low light and bright sunlight conditions. They also note that the IP67 waterproof rating and long battery life are significant advantages.
Despite its higher price point, the review considers the thermometer worth the investment for those seeking a fast and accurate tool for cooking. The review concludes with a strong recommendation, awarding the highest rating they can give on the site, a 5 out of 5.
Warranty and Support
ChefsTemp provides a 3-year limited warranty against defects on the FinalTouch X10.
What’s great is that if your warranty claim is approved, they will simply ship you a new unit — no waiting on a repair and no need to waste time shipping them your defective product.
If you have an issue with your thermometer, ChefsTemp encourages you to reach them by phone (323 area code; Los Angeles area) or email. They also maintain official Facebook and Instagram accounts where you may find additional support.
Summary of What We Learned
Ok, time to sum up all my thoughts and feelings about the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10.
Will it take its place alongside my most trusted kit? Or is it destined to live out its days in a junk drawer (or be regifted to an unwitting mate)?
What We Like
I found during use that the large, high-contrast LCD screen is easy to read, day or night, from virtually any angle or orientation. Even those of us whose eyesight isn’t quite what it once was will have no trouble seeing the big numbers.
While several competitors have auto-rotating screens, very few pair that with 270° probe rotation. You’d have to go out of your way to find an awkward angle the FinalTouch X10 can’t make practical.
The clean lines of the X10 don’t just look good, but they also make it easy to use. There’s just one button on the exterior, and it’s honestly the only one you need regular access to, anyway. A ‘Hold’ button, for fixing the display on the current temperature measurement.
I always say you want ±1 °F accuracy in an instant-read thermometer because 2 degrees or more difference in steak doneness can be important. The FinalTouch X10 beats this, hands down.
I also like the fact reading times are fast! When your hand is hovering over a hot grill taking a temperature reading, you want to be in and out quickly to avoid burning your hand, and the FinalTouch X10 is plenty quick enough.
What Could be Improved?
I thought long and hard on this one and came up empty-handed. There are simply no serious flaws in form or function to report.
I had thought about saying a rechargeable battery would be nice. But, if I get anywhere near the 3000 hours promised out of the pair of AAAs inside, I can’t complain they aren’t being efficient in this area. To put that in context, 3000 hours is 125 days of non-stop use. Replacing batteries on the regular is NOT going to be an issue with the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10.
So yes, I can see nothing to improve upon.
Is it Value for Money?
This is not an inexpensive item. However, it does its job virtually flawlessly, it’s well-built, and it’s versatile.
If you barbecue a lot (and if you make candy and syrups, that’s a bonus) and expect the best out of your gear, you’ll appreciate the value in the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10.
For the casual griller, this may be overkill, and your money may be better spent elsewhere. But, for those passionate about outdoor cooking and who strive for perfection every time, it’s well worth the investment — the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 will never let you down.
Are We Happy to Recommend it?
We are absolutely happy to recommend it! I can’t find anything negative to say about this fantastic thermometer.
Anyone who doesn’t care to mess around with slower, less reliable thermometers should have this stuck to their fridge door, in their apron pocket, or swinging from the BBQ tool hook.
A very fast, accurate thermometer with a 270° rotating probe, a big, sharp, auto-rotating display, motion-activated wake-up mode, IP67 waterproof, and impressive build quality. Also a winner of the red dot designs award 2022, this is an impressive, easy-to-use, highly functional product.
Note: At the time of writing, this thermometer is only available from ChefsTemp themselves, at the link below.
Alternative Products
There are hundreds of alternative instant-read thermometers you could look at in place of the ChefsTemp. Here are two of my favorites, and why.
Thermoworks Thermapen One
First of all, the Thermoworks Thermapen One is the industry standard instant-read thermometer used by thousands of professional chefs, BBQ teams, and more, across the globe. If that isn’t a trustable endorsement, I don’t know what is!
The ThermoWorks Thermapen One excels in speed and accuracy, offering a top choice for those needing a dependable instant-read thermometer. It has one-second readings and ±0.5 °F accuracy, ensuring precise measurements for perfect results every time.
Its 360-degree rotating display, automatic wake-up/sleep modes, and large, backlit screen enhance usability and battery life, making temperature readings easy in any light. The Thermapen One’s durable, IP67 waterproof build easily withstands use in outdoor environments.
Despite a higher price, the Thermapen One’s superior speed, precision, and user-friendly design offer great value, making it a premium choice for serious grillers valuing performance and premium products at any price.
LavaTools Javelin Pro Duo
The Lavatools Javelin Pro Duo is a notable alternative to the ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10, offering speed, accuracy, and user-friendly features at a better price. While the FinalTouch X10 is known for its quick response and precision, the Javelin Pro Duo competes well with its 2-3 second read time—fast enough for most grilling needs—and ±0.9 °F accuracy for perfectly acceptable results.
Designed for all users, featuring an ambidextrous build and an auto-rotating, backlit display for easy reading in any light. However, I do say the ChefsTemp is still better here for left-handers, with its 270-degree probe range unmatched on the market.
Despite a plastic construction, the LavaTools is splash-proof and water-resistant, promising durability. Up to 4,000 hours of battery life reduces the need for frequent battery changes.
Compared to the FinalTouch X10, the Javelin Pro Duo is more affordable without skimping on critical features, making it an excellent choice for those looking for quality and value.
Final Thoughts
Many thanks to the fine folks at ChefsTemp for sending me the FinalTouch X10. They clearly have a lot of confidence in their product, and I can verify that it is well placed. This is an excellent digital instant-read thermometer.
Pricey? Yes. But it does what it does SO well that it’s absolutely worth it for any serious griller.
If you want to kick a few more tires before making a purchase, read up on similar products in our thermometer reviews section. I can all but guarantee you’ll find something to suit.
Thanks for reading my ChefsTemp FinalTouch X10 review, and may all your temperature takings be accurate, fast, and singed arm hair free.
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