Big Green Egg Thermometer Upgrade: From Basic to High-Precision

Any grill enthusiast knows that grilling is an art. It’s one that you can hone and master over time. But like any artist who’s perfected their craft, you need the right tools to produce the masterpiece on the grill. Investing in a Big Green Egg is one. Its unique design enhances the flavor and quality of your grilled meat. However, this ceramic grill alone can’t get the job done. You need a reliable thermometer that provides accurate temperature control, especially in a high-temperature cooking setup.

If you’re still using the traditional dome thermometers, it’s time to toss them away for a Big Green Egg thermometer upgrade. You’ll thank yourself later once you’ve tasted the difference in your meat. 

The Limitations of the Stock Thermometer

Most modern grills feature a stock or dome thermometer. A built-in thermometer is designed to be convenient, allowing users to check the temperature without lifting the lid or inserting probes into the meat. However, the very design that provides convenience and ease to the user also imposes limitations on its functionality, particularly in delivering accurate temperature readings.

Since accurate temperature control is crucial in producing the highest quality grilled meat, it’s recommended that you upgrade your Big Green Egg with grilling accessories to enhance your grilling results. 

Why is there a need to invest in a thermometer upgrade? 

Built-in dome thermometers measure the air on top of the lid, not the cooking surface. Since heat naturally rises, the air temperature of the dome can significantly vary from the cooking surface. 

Another factor that causes inaccurate temperature readings in a dome thermometer is the airflow bias. Since heated air circulates within the dome, it could result in uneven “hot spots.” Some areas might be hotter than others. Therefore, it does not read the “average” temperature but rather that of a specific spot only.

The ProTemp S1 thermometer effectively replaces the original analog gauge that comes in a Big Green Egg grill. Therefore, it can measure the temperature on the top, just as the original analog gauge. However, its capabilities go beyond that because of the longer thermometer stem that allows it to reach closer to the grate. The ability of the longer thermometer stem to touch the cooking surface provides much improved accuracy. 

Another feature about the ProTemp S1 that makes it stand out from the original analog gauge is its use of a platinum sensor whereas the built-in thermometers use an NTC sensor. 

Platinum sensors are fundamentally more accurate in their temperature readings. The material’s electrical resistance is linear to that of the temperature, which makes it more predictable and accurate. On the other hand, NTC sensors use semiconductor materials that can cause temperature to drop even as temperature rises. 

Platinum is more chemically and physically stable, with an accuracy range of ±0.1°C or better. Even after years of use, these sensors remain accurate with highly repeatable results. It makes it ideal for high-precision applications, such as grilling meat or low-and-slow cooking. 

Finally, upgrading to the ProTemp S1 for your Big Green Egg allows you to utilize temperature compensation. Most sensors and thermometers are easily influenced by external temperature changes. Because of this, it is possible to have measurement errors without temperature compensation. You have this capability with the ProTemp S1 via the app, which detects temperature variations and compensate it accordingly for a more reliable reading. 

The next time you fire up the grill and consider using the stock thermometers, think twice. Maximize your grilling performance with the right Kamado grill accessories, such as a Big Green Egg thermometer upgrade. 

Why Precision Temperature Control Matters in Kamado Cooking

Temperature control is crucial in all types of cooking, but especially in Kamado cooking. Why so? It’s because Kamado grills, such as the Big Green Egg, are known for their efficiency and heat retention. 

The ceramic material is effective in locking in heat and providing airflow within the dome, ensuring a consistent and even heating. However, this cooking method is also sensitive to temperature changes. Any minor fluctuations in the grill’s temperature can result in undercooked or overcooked food if you’re not paying attention.

Even if you’re off by two degrees or cooked your steak for just a minute or two more, you cannot enjoy the same flavor or texture. You wouldn’t want that on a pricey piece of meat! 

One thing that is particularly challenging with Kamado cooking is that it differs from a typical grill. It is made of thick, ceramic walls. The use of ceramic is specifically chosen for its insulating abilities, working like a heavy-duty thermal blanket that cooks the meat while maintaining steady heat. 

In particular, Kamado grills can retain that heat for longer periods, achieving long cook stability. For example, it can maintain a temperature of 225°F for up to 12 hours without requiring you to add more charcoal constantly. The ceramic does most of the work, distributing the heat inside, and does not cool off easily. 

However, the Kamado heat retention capability can be a double-edged sword. It means that the temperature remains consistent throughout, with little room for adjustments as you cook. If you’re not careful with grill heat management, you could easily burn your meat. There is no way to lower the temperature instantly. If you exceed the recommended temperature for your meat, you won’t be able to “cool” the temperature. The trick is getting the temperature right from the start, where it needs to be. This design delivers maximum efficiency, but it requires a high level of timing and mastery to achieve optimal ceramic grill temperature control. 

The Case for a Big Green Egg Thermometer Upgrade

Is a Big Green Egg Kamado grill thermometer upgrade worth the investment?

The Big Green Egg material is chosen specifically for the best grilling performance. However, this grilling powerhouse is not without its weak points, though, particularly the original dome gauge.

The stock thermometer, while functional, may not deliver the accuracy and consistency required to ensure precise temperature control. It measures the temperature of the dome, rather than the cooking surface. If you want to achieve the perfectly cooked meat, rough-guessing the grill’s internal temperature isn’t the way to go.

A feature-rich modern digital thermometer is what you need to achieve real-time and accurate temperature data. One example is a wireless meat thermometer. It allows you to monitor and manage temperature in the Kamado grill from your smartphone or tablet. It is connected to a probe that monitors the internal meat temperature and the grate or cooking surface. Some models have multiple probes, which is ideal for cooking different types of meats or multi-level cooking.

The convenience of tracking the temperature fluctuations across different meats or surfaces ensures precise grilling. You’ll know exactly when the meat is ready without second-guessing yourself!

Modern digital thermometers feature advanced sensor technology that delivers optimum accuracy. Most thermometers have an accuracy range of ±1°F to ±1.8°F. The hyper-sensitive sensors also enable fast detection of temperature changes. It allows you to adjust your timing, making it suitable for various cooking styles, such as baking or smoking. A reliable tool maximizes the versatility and full potential of a Big Green Egg! 

Must-Have Kamado Accessories That Work with a Thermometer Upgrade

Are you ready to transform your Kamado grill results from good to professional quality? Here is a detailed look at the must-have Kamado grill accessories that enhance its quality, versatility, and cooking efficiency.

1. Heat Deflectors

There’s no question that Kamado grills are highly versatile. However, they cannot do this on their own. They require proper setup for optimal results, regardless of whether you’re baking, smoking, grilling, or reverse-searing. 

Heat deflectors control indirect heat and convection by acting as a barrier between the heat and the food. The ceramic dome provides insulation, while heat deflectors allow even heat distribution. This process also creates more individual cooking zones that sustain longer cooking periods. 

Use it in conjunction with an accurate grill thermometer to determine the optimal placement of deflectors for improved temperature management. A ceramic plate setter is one example of a heat deflector for Kamado grills. It is ideal for smoking, baking, and low-and-slow cooking, as it offers even, indirect heat. Some brands of Kamado grills already include this as an accessory, but it’s a worthwhile investment if you don’t have one.

A cast-iron griddle is also a notable heat deflector, especially when searing or cooking at high temperatures. For baking, a pizza stone or pizza steel can enhance heat retention and ensure even heat distribution. Both options are excellent for baking pizzas or breads on the Kamado grill. 

2. Charcoal Baskets

A charcoal basket is another essential grilling accessory for the Big Green Egg. The basket positions the charcoal in a way that allows for tighter and more efficient placement. This setup enables better airflow, ensuring consistent cooking, which is ideal for low-and-slow cooking methods.

Why is the proper placement of charcoal important in Kamado cooking? It helps to build a more stable fire. When the fire is stable, it means the temperature remains stable. You need this predictability for precise ceramic grill temperature control, especially when cooking for extended periods of time. A consistent heat source also eliminates unnecessary hot spots that can skew your temperature readings.

3. Airflow Tools

Airflow is an often-overlooked factor that can significantly impact the temperature within the ceramic grill. It is crucial to manage the airflow by adjusting the vent on the Big Green Egg. 

You can do this by adjusting the exhaust vent damper on the top, or the air intake vent damper on the bottom. Proper airflow is essential to stabilize the temperature within the grill.

4. Wireless Meat Thermometer Probes

Multiple wireless probes are a lifesaver when cooking with a Kamado grill. It is beneficial when cooking different types of meat, such as ribs, chicken, or brisket.

Depending on the specific thermometer model, some can come with up to six thermometer probes. You can insert those probes into each meat, allowing you to track internal temperature changes as the cooking progresses remotely. Some even have modern features that allow you to input the target temperature and set an alarm when the meat reaches that particular temperature reading. 

Choosing the Right Thermometer Upgrade

A Big Green Egg thermometer upgrade isn’t just about ditching the built-in dome thermometer. It unlocks the grill’s full potential for the best results. However, there are numerous options available: which one should you choose?

Wired vs Wireless

The first decision you’ll need to make is whether to choose a wired or wireless thermometer. 

Wired thermometers have probe wires that connect to the main display unit. It is a simple setup that offers excellent accuracy in most cases. The downside to wired thermometers is the lack of remote monitoring, so you need to stay close to the grill to monitor the temperature reading.

The other option is a wireless thermometer. It utilizes Bluetooth to transmit temperature data to a remote device, such as a phone or tablet, within the specified range. These thermometers typically come in a compact design and can send alerts directly to the device, ensuring the food is neither overcooked nor undercooked. The strength of the Bluetooth signal may be affected by the thick ceramic walls of the Kamado grill, so consider this when making your choice.

Temperature Probe Accuracy

Investing in premium components is non-negotiable with thermometers. They are exposed to extreme heat, fire, smoke, and moisture. Anything less than premium could break down easily, resulting in inaccurate readings.

Speaking of accuracy, look for thermometers with an accuracy range of ±1°F to ±1.8°F. Achieving the perfect doneness is crucial for ensuring food safety.

Accuracy varies based on the type of sensor used. The best options are those made with high-grade RTD sensors, as they are thin and highly responsive, allowing for real-time temperature detection.

Aside from the temperature accuracy, check the thermometer’s heat resistance capacity. The components must withstand up to 500 degrees F (indirect heat), and the ProTemp S1 can withstand up to 1000 degrees F. The best materials for Kamado cooking techniques are silicone or braided stainless steel. You should steer clear of those made with plastic or cheap rubber components; they are not suitable in high-heat environments.

Professional-Grade

There’s no question: pro-grade thermometers, such as the ProTemp S1, are the best choice for upgrading from a traditional analog thermometer on the grill dome or other wired models thermometers.

Those built-in analog dome thermometers rely on basic NTC sensors, which can drift by ±10°F or more under heat and smoke, leading to guesswork that risks overcooked brisket or underdone poultry. Wired thermometers aren’t much better—they tether you to the grill with cumbersome wired probes and displays, offering spotty accuracy without the freedom to roam.

The ProTemp S1 changes the game with its lab-calibrated Platinum sensor, delivering a no-fail accuracy of ±0.5°F—10 times sharper than those NTC setups. It’s this precision in readings that’s ideal for professional cooking techniques, such as sous vide and searing steaks to exact doneness.

In comparison to entry-level options, the ProTemp S1 packs a robust wireless technology suite. Its advanced Bluetooth capability punches through thick ceramic walls without signal dropouts, ensuring real-time readings and alerts straight to your device. It even withstands temps up to 1000°F for those marathon low-and-slow smokes. Plus, features like cloud syncing of cook history and estimated cooking times let you nail the perfect temp and timeline, delivering consistent results every time.

But the ProTemp S1 isn’t just a thermometer—it’s your all-in-one controlling hub that turns your grill into a smart setup. Wirelessly connect it to a temperature-controlled fan for automated airflow adjustments and up to four wireless probes to monitor internal meat temps across multiple cuts at once. Everything stays wireless and clutter-free, so your cooking station remains tidy and focused, not tangled in a web of cords.

Why Do I Need the ProTemp S1 for My Weber Smokey Mountain Grill (WSM)?

If you’re cooking with the Weber Smokey Mountain Grill, you know it’s a versatile and easy to use grill. It makes outdoor cooking easy and takes your grilling game to the next level. 

The ProTemp S1 is one of the must-have accessories for the Weber Smokey Mountain Grill and a smart upgrade. 

With the ProTemp S1, you can enjoy remote monitoring with the S1 automation system. Keep an eye on your cook even when inside the house or when running errands. It’s perfect for low-and-slow cooking so you don’t have to go running back and forth to the grill to check if the meat’s done. 

Another notable reason to upgrade to the ProTemp S1 for the Weber Smokey Mountain Grill is the ability to pair it with various accessories. You can attach the Breezo fan to stabilize the temperature throughout the cooking process. 

The ProTemp S1 is a completely wireless setup. You no longer have to work with a jumbled mess of cables and wires. Set up is easy and effortless, and you will enjoy the grilling process even more. 

And finally, the wireless probe temp tracking lets you see the food’s internal temperature in real-time. It tells you exactly when the food has reached its recommended internal temperature, eliminating the need for guesswork. 

Upgrading to the ProTemp S1 is more than just a fancy investment. It lets you take control of your grilling journey so that you can enjoy the process and cook with more confidence. It’s much better than baby-sitting your grill for hours! 

ProTemp S1 Installation Guide

Follow this detailed guide to install and start using your thermometer for the Big Green Egg.

Step 1: Unboxing 

Open the package and verify contents: ProTemp S1 unit, Type-C charging cable, and fixing nut. Ensure all parts are present. Watch ChefsTemp’s instructional videos on YouTube for guidance. Charge the device using the provided cable and a high-power socket; avoid wetting the port. The battery lasts 20 hours on Wi-Fi or 300 hours on Bluetooth—charge every 2 months if stored long-term.

Step 2: Set Up the Unit

Charging: Connect the Type-C cable to a 5V 2A adapter and charge fully before first use (about 4 hours).

App and Pairing:

Download the ChefsTemp app (iOS 11+ or Android 9.0+) and create an account.

Tap “Add Device” > “ProTemp S1.”

Hold the Power On/Off button (4 seconds) to turn on, then “Next” in app.

Long-press Pairing button until “C-1” shows; complete Bluetooth pairing.

Connect to 2.4GHz Wi-Fi (enter password, no special characters); confirm connection.

Step 3: Install the S1 on the Grill

Remove Original Thermometer:

Loosen the fixing nut from the lid’s back and pull out the thermometer.

Install S1:

Insert S1 through the lid hole from outside.

Tighten the fixing nut from inside—display faces out.

Step 4: Start the Cooking Process

Power on S1 and connect via app for ambient monitoring (32–1022°F). For food temps, add optional probe:

Add Optional Probes: Charge on stand, then pair in app (“Add Probes”).

Optional Breezo Fan: Connect via Type-C; auto-pairs—control via app or Power button. Warnings: Probes max 212°F internal/662°F ambient; avoid flames/searing. Wear gloves; clean gently. 

Long-Term Value of a Thermometer Upgrade

Why invest in a thermometer upgrade when the Big Green Egg has a built-in one? It all comes down to three reasons: 

• Better Food Outcomes – Precise temperature control is the foundation for any cooking, but more especially with a ceramic grill. A professional-grade thermometer enables you to achieve the correct internal temperature of food and maintain a stable ambient temperature. Having a tool that ensures measurable and repeatable results is essential for refining technique and precision when cooking on a Kamado grill. 
• Improved Confidence in Cooking – A reliable thermometer eliminates the question: “Is it done yet?” Gone are the days when you have to constantly poke at the meat or cut it to check its doneness. These steps risk losing some of the meat juice and resulting in uneven cooking. Advanced thermometers can record cooking history and build a graph to track how certain types of meat are cooked, allowing you to replicate the same results in the future. 
• Improved Efficiency – The results above combine to improve efficiency in cooking with a Kamado grill. You can save fuel, money, and time. It saves fuel because it builds a stable fire, so you are not over- or under-adjusting the heat source. Next, it saves money because you can perfectly cook steaks, briskets, or other pricey cuts of meat. And finally, it saves you time because the meat is cooked to perfection and ready when you need to serve it. 

Conclusion

Investing in a Big Green Egg means you’re serious about grilling or entertaining with food. Sharing a delicious meal with friends and family is a cherished memory that will last a lifetime. Make those moments count with a perfectly cooked meal without stressing out. No more missing out on family moments while you stand on the grill for hours.

With a Big Green Egg thermometer upgrade, you have more control over the grill, rather than the other way around. If you’ve already invested in a premium grill, a precision thermometer upgrade completes your grill setup.