Measurement duration
The time it takes for a thermometer to provide a temperature reading, from contact or activating the IR sensor to obtaining the result, is crucial for efficiency. Quick measurements save time during temperature checks. However, it's important to mention that for axillary use (see "Application area"), it's advised to keep the thermometer in place for a minimum of 5 minutes, irrespective of the manufacturer's specified measurement time, due to the nature of the procedure.
Measurement accuracy
The extent to which a device deviates from the actual temperature during measurements determines its accuracy. Even the least accurate electronic medical thermometers today have a maximum deviation of 0.3 °C, sufficient for everyday and basic medical use. Common models offer even higher accuracy, with deviations as low as
0.1 °C or
0.2 °C, making the pursuit of maximum accuracy necessary only in specific scenarios.
Reading memory
The number of results the thermometer can store in memory. The ability to
"remember" the results of previous measurements can be very convenient in some cases — in particular, it allows you to accurately track changes in temperature over time. The most advanced models are capable of storing several dozen readings in memory.
Sound signal
The presence of a
sound signal in the thermometer. Most often, such a signal indicates the end of the measurement, which eliminates the need to independently monitor the time or get a device to check the readings. However, other events can also be accompanied by sounds, such as switching on and off.
