Thermometer and Refractometer

Looking to step up my brewing game and I figured its time to get a good thermometer and refractometer. Can anyone provide some suggestions? What should I look for in each? Anything to stay away from? I've heard and read great things about Thermapens but I think they can run upwards of $100... is there any particular reason for this?

Cheers

 

I can not speak to refractometers, but I will say you will not be disappointed with a Thermapen. The reason why they are spendy is because of the quality, and NIST traceable calibration. It also gives a read out super fast at within 1*F in 3 seconds, and 0.1*F within I believe 30 seconds. It cleans up very easily and is splash-proof. They are also calibrated at the factory, and come with a certificate saying such.

 

+1 on the termapen! Its the best of the best for thermometer. Do not let the price scare you, they are worth every penny.

I bought my refractometer off of ebay for around $30. It has SG and temp correction. Some people knock the refractometers from china but i have had great luck with mine.

 

From an amazon refractometer:

Ehh. That sounds pretty annoying. Do people even use refractometers then as they don't seem to be that much of a help.

 

Due to the smaller sample size it is much easier to cool a refractometer sample then a hydrometer sample. This means it is easier to take more sample more frequently and gauge exactly how the brew day is going.

That said you could use a refractometer, in conjunction with a correction table, to gauge fermentation progress. I wouldn't trust it for a final reading, but it will allow for you to see when fermentation is complete.

 

Refractometers are routinely used in winemaking for ALL gravity readings. I use one with a correction program for alcohol. I have never used a hydrometer in brewing.