Wireless food probes are some of the best grilling tools you can buy. The devices allow you to monitor temperatures without having to fiddle with cords when you need to turn meat or move things around. Meater is one of the most popular options when it comes to wireless probes, and the company's Meater 2 Plus introduced increased accuracy and a longer range in a more durable probe construction that's completely waterproof. Now, the company is back with the four-probe model. Professional XL that uses those updated components in a WiFi-enabled kitchen hub.
Meater has already used the four-probe route before with his Meater BlockThe Pro XL follows the same idea with the Meater 2 Plus’ upgraded probes. The probes’ waterproof construction means they’re suitable for sous vide cooking and frying, and when you’re done, you can pop them in the dishwasher. Plus, these probes can also withstand temperatures up to 1,000 degrees Fahrenheit. Inside, five sensors monitor the internal temperatures of your food, while an ambient temperature sensor on the end helps monitor your grill or smoker. Using data from all of those components, the Meater app can provide estimated completion times once you select your food and cooking method.
Like the Meater Block, the Pro XL can function as a standalone grill monitor on its own. It can also send readings to your phone via Bluetooth so you can stay informed from your favorite chair. Lastly, WiFi connectivity syncs with the Meater Cloud so you can see progress on your phone from anywhere. That’s handy if you run out of wood pellets during the cooking of a brisket and need to make a supply run, for example. The appeal of four probes is the ability to monitor four things at once. Say you have friends over and they all like their steaks cooked to a different doneness. Two probes are also handy for things like smoked brisket, with one on the tip and one on the flat, and Meater doesn’t currently offer a dual-probe option.
Unlike the Meater 2 Plus, the Pro XL recharges via USB-C rather than running on batteries. The company claims that fully charged probes will last for over 24 hours, which is more than enough to get you through a long smoke session. In terms of accuracy, Meater promises that readings will be within half a degree, and the system displays temperatures accurate to tenths of a degree on the Pro XL’s screen within the app.
The Meater Pro XL is now available for pre-order for $349.95That's $50 more than the Meater Block cost at full price (currently $239.95). The Pro XL is scheduled to ship on September 12.
