Maverick PT-75 Review

The Maverick PT-75 is the company’s newest entry into the instant-read category of food thermometer. It performs very well and has a few unique features to help the cook. In addition to its temperature-measuring function, it incorporates a count-up timer to remind the user when the last time the food was checked.

The PT-75 uses a thermocouple sensor in a narrow tip to allow virtually instantaneous readings. The time from freezing to boiling in our response test is among the fastest we’ve seen. Accuracy, specified at +/-2ºF below 212º and +/-4º above 212º, was better than claimed. The probe is long enough to take any reasonable measurement in food.

The display uses an LCD with a white LED backlight, making for easy reading in any lighting. The readout can be inverted with the push of a button, making it unnecessary to mentally invert the numbers. The unit powers up when the probe is unfolded, and remains lit for 3 minutes. If the temp is below 104º, the unit will shut down after this interval. If the temp is higher, the LED goes out but the display is still readable in ambient light.

There is a count-up timer that can be activated by pressing the button on the rear. In this mode, the timer will start when the probe is folded down, and remain lit for 10 minutes at which time the LED will go out but the timer will continue counting, and is readable in ambient light. The counter will reset when the probe is unfolded. The same button that activates the timer can be used to switch between Fahrenheit and Celsius scales.

The unit operates on two AAA batteries which are supplied. The manufacturer claims 10 hours of continuous use. This is on the short side as battery life goes – probably due to the easy-reading LED backlight – but should not be a problem for most users. The battery door, which requires a tiny screwdriver to open, has a moisture seal around the compartment to keep things dry inside.

Construction is better than average. The probe-end of the housing has a rubber lip to protect the case in the event it is dropped. There is a large hole at the other end, probably to allow it to by hung on a grill or smoker utensil hook – a nice touch. Congratulations to Maverick for specifying the thermal response in a way that makes sense. Engineers will appreciate the time constant parameter – the rest of you can ignore it.

The limited warranty is for one year. Maverick provides a thorough instruction sheet with the unit. Their snail-mail address, telephone number and website are found on this sheet, but, alas, no e-mail address.

The PT-75 is comfortable to use, especially for lefties. The accuracy is good and the response times are excellent. Readability is better than most. Overall, we give this unit a Gold Medal for design, execution and ease of use.