Comparison La Crosse WS6860 vs La Crosse WS6825

The types of meteorological information and related data that the device can provide.

— Weather forecast. The weather station can estimate forecasts based on data from its sensors, considering factors like temperature, humidity, and wind. The accuracy of these forecasts varies across models and tends to be relatively low, providing only a rough idea of potential changes. Typically, weather data is presented with symbolic images depicting sun, clouds, rain, etc., and forecast periods extend to about 12–24 hours. Despite limited precision, this feature proves valuable for taking precautionary measures in anticipation of adverse weather. It's essential to note that markings such as "Rain," "Variable," "Clear," etc., on mechanical barometer scales in certain models (see "Mechanism"), are not considered weather forecasts as they are highly subjective.

— Internal temperature. The weather station includes an internal thermometer for measuring room temperature where the main unit is placed. This feature proves especially useful for managing microclimates, particularly in critical environments like greenhouses. Internal thermometers typically have a narrower operating range but higher accuracy compared to external ones. They are a standard feature in most modern weather stations across various types (see "Mechanism"), except for specialized professional models exclusively designed for outdoor o...bservations. Portable devices (see "Installation") are not explicitly designed for this function, although they can be used indoors; their primary purpose remains outdoor use, and the built-in temperature sensors align with that purpose.

— Outside temperature. The possibility of using a weather station to measure the air temperature outdoors. Usually, an external temperature sensor is performed separately from the main unit; the only exceptions are portable devices (see "Installation"). Separately, we note that it is not necessary to carry out such measurements using an “internal” thermometer (see above): outdoor work requires a wider temperature range, and the device must also be protected from dust and moisture.

— Internal humidity. The weather station offers the capability to measure indoor air's relative humidity, a crucial factor in determining comfort within a room. Maintaining the right humidity level is essential, as both excessively dry and overly humid air can lead to discomfort. This feature is particularly valuable for specific purposes, such as regulating microclimates in greenhouses or incubators.

— External humidity. The weather station is equipped to measure outdoor air's relative humidity, typically using an external sensor for this purpose (excluding tourist models). It is strongly advised not to substitute an internal sensor for accurate readings. This parameter is crucial for weather forecasting and assessing overall comfort conditions. High humidity intensifies the perception of both cold and heat, significantly influencing comfort levels (see below).

— Atmospheric pressure. The weather station is capable of providing data on atmospheric pressure, a crucial factor for weather forecasting. Unlike temperature and humidity measurements, pressure readings are not categorized into internal and external, as the pressure in an unpressurized room typically aligns closely with external conditions. While an internal barometric sensor suffices for accuracy, some models include a barometric sensor in the external unit for enhanced precision. It's important to note that the "atmospheric pressure" function is specific to devices capable of outputting detailed pressure data, and not all barometric sensor-equipped models provide this feature — some only indicate pressure increase or decrease.

— Wind speed and direction. The weather station is equipped to measure wind speed and direction, contributing to enhanced weather forecasting accuracy (both by the station and through independent calculations). These measurements also impact the outdoor comfort level display. Typically, a sensor combining a weather vane and an anemometer is employed for this purpose, and this feature is prevalent in advanced weather stations.

— Precipitation level. The weather station can measure precipitation levels, although specific details about rain or snow are seldom necessary in everyday life. A casual glance out the window is usually enough for a general assessment of conditions. However, for the meticulous recording of weather observations and scientific analysis of weather data, precise information about precipitation becomes crucial. As such, this function is predominantly found in professional weather stations.

— Dew point. The weather station can calculate the dew point, which is the temperature at which air moisture cools and condenses into dew. This parameter, influenced by atmospheric pressure, temperature, and relative humidity, provides a reliable indicator of overall comfort conditions for individuals. Dew points of 10–12 °C are considered most comfortable, lower values can cause dryness, 18 °C is seen as the comfort limit, while conditions with a dew point of 26 °C or higher can pose health risks, especially for respiratory conditions. The dew point is also relevant for technical purposes, and further details on its significance for human well-being and various activities can be explored in specialized sources.

— UV radiation. The possibility of using a weather station to measure the intensity of ultraviolet radiation. This function is important primarily for beaches and high-mountain areas — it is for such places that an increased level of ultraviolet radiation is characteristic, which requires appropriate protective equipment (creams for open skin areas, special glasses).

— Altimeter. The weather station can measure elevation differences, a feature commonly found in tourist-oriented models (see "Installation"). Other types are generally stationary and not designed for mobility. Altitude measurement typically follows the barometric principle, relying on pressure differences between a reference point and the measurement point. In advanced models, corrections for temperature differences between these points may also be available.

The maximum distance to the main unit of the weather station where an external sensor can be placed. For wired versions (see "Type of external sensor") this indicator corresponds to the length of the standard cable; for wireless, a guaranteed radio communication range is usually indicated within the visibility limit, provided there is no interference or foreign objects in the signal path. Anyway, it should be taken into account that the maximum installation range is usually less than the claimed range in fact. This is due to the fact that the wire can rarely be laid in a straight line, and the radio signal, in turn, is affected by obstacles and electromagnetic interference. Therefore, it is worth choosing a weather station for this parameter with a certain margin.

The presence in the weather station of the possibility of fixing the minimum and maximum temperature recorded by the sensors. This allows you to track the limits in which the temperature fluctuated over a certain period of time, which can be useful for various purposes: for keeping weather diaries, controlling the microclimate in the room, analyzing emergency situations, etc.

Ability to display the comfort level on the display of the weather station.

The overall comfort of an individual in specific conditions relies not just on air temperature but also on factors like humidity and outdoor wind strength. Display features for comfort levels vary between indoor and outdoor conditions. Indoors, the device typically assesses the combination of temperature and humidity, offering an overall comfort conclusion ranging from "good/bad" to intermediate options. Outdoors, it introduces the concept of "perceived temperature." This accounts for the impact of strong winds and/or high humidity, where the air feels colder than the actual temperature suggests. For instance, -5 °C with these conditions might feel as unpleasant as -8 °C in dry, windless weather. Perceived temperature data provides a more accurate assessment of external conditions, aiding individuals in making informed decisions, such as choosing appropriate clothing.

Modern weather stations can support either the first or second option separately, or both. Anyway, working with a comfort level implies at least the possibility of measuring humidity (see above).

The weather station's design includes specified placement options for the main unit. While this parameter can be somewhat flexible — such as wall-mounted devices used on tables or creative methods for hanging tourist models on walls — only standard options explicitly stated by the manufacturer are considered in this context. Some models may offer multiple claimed placement options.

— Desktop. Placing the weather station on a table or a similar surface, like a shelf or window sill, is a straightforward and effortless installation method. It provides convenience, allowing for easy relocation when needed. However, the limitation lies in the availability of free surfaces, and there's a risk of inconvenience, such as accidentally knocking the device to the floor.

— Wall. Mounting the weather station on the wall using a hook, nail, or similar device is a space-efficient option, offering flexibility in choosing installation height. This method minimizes occupied space, yet the installation process is more complex, often requiring wall drilling.

– Portable (tourist). Portable weather stations, intended for on-the-go use, are not meant for permanent installation, although that option is also feasible. Designed for hikers and travelers, these compact devices are pocket-sized, easily fitting into bags or backpacks. Their design may include features for easy attachment to equipment, su...ch as handles or carabiners, but they typically lack options for table installation or wall hanging. Portable weather stations usually do not use external sensors, and their cases are reinforced for increased protection against dust and moisture.

This concerns how the transmitter in the external sensor of a weather station is powered, specifically for wireless sensor models. Wired sensors, as mentioned earlier, don't have transmitters; they derive the required energy for operation through a wired connection.

The majority of models use sensors powered by standard-sized, replaceable batteries — either disposable or rechargeable cells. This choice is driven by considerations of battery life and the convenience of swiftly swapping out depleted batteries without removing the entire sensor. While this method incurs additional costs for separate battery purchases — either ongoing expenses for disposables or a relatively higher upfront cost for rechargeables—these drawbacks are generally deemed non-critical. Overall, the advantages of this approach outweigh these concerns for several reasons.

Dimensions of the main unit of the weather station. This option allows you to estimate the space required to install the device. However, most modern models are very compact, it makes sense to pay close attention to the dimensions only when you have to install the device in a very cramped place.

Dimensions of the wireless unit (see "Type of external sensor") that the weather station is equipped with. Such units are usually small, and finding space for their installation is not a problem; however, in some situations (for example, when placed in a miniature wall niche), accurate dimensions may not be superfluous.

The total weight of the device. In models equipped with external sensors, this parameter is usually indicated only for the main unit, because the weight of the external equipment is small and can be neglected.