The Morpilot is a six-channel remote thermometer that communicates with a smartphone application via Bluetooth. Apps are available for both Apple iPhone 4S and later, and Android operating systems, version 4.3 or later with a Bluetooth 4.0 module. These tests were conducted using an Android phone, the Samsung Galaxy S4. The instruction manual has QR codes to facilitate downloading the appropriate app. Once downloaded and installed, the app will walk you through pairing your phone and the Morpilot. The manufacturer claims a range of 100′ (30m) indoors and 165′ (50m) outdoors.
The temperature at each probe in use is cycled on the device’s display along with its temperature alarm limits. In the app, each channel displays its current temperature if a probe has been connected for that channel. The app’s display can be color coordinated with the probe handles for easy correlation between the probe and its display. Each channel can have a target temperature or a temperature range tied to its alarm function. These temperatures can be chosen from a list of food types and doneness or set according to your temperature preferences. You can also name your own alarm settings for future use.
A count-down timer can be independently set for each channel from zero to 240 minutes 59 seconds. You can also enter your own prompt to display when the timer reaches zero, such as “flip burgers.” Handy! The timer alarm sounds in the app only; the device itself does not indicate when the timer has reached zero.
A display for each channel shows the current temperature, the food type and doneness, the alarm temperature(s), and the timer setting. There is a temperature vs. time graph for each channel, too. It displays the alarm settings, the temperature, and the time of day. The app also displays the condition of the device’s battery.
The app tested is V1.7.3 and the firmware version is V3.8. The display can be configured for either ºF or ºC. The alarm interval can be set in five minute increments from five minutes to 60 minutes. If a temperature triggers an alarm, you will be renotified at this interval if the alarm condition persists. The device will flash its screen and beep if temperature alarm settings are exceeded, and the phone will sound a tone and/or vibrate to alert the user to these conditions.
The stainless steel cables on the temperature probes are 48″ (1.2m) long, which should be adequate for most users. Each probe has a silicone handle with a distinct color that can be assigned to the channel in use in the app. The cables are conveniently wound around carriers to prevent tangling when not in use. There is also a strain relief on the plug to help prevent the cables from breaking. The cables on the temperature probes seem reasonably robust, and the owner’s manual gives temperature limits for them to avoid damage.
The temperature accuracy is good in the food range, but reads about 8-9º high at 325ºF. This slight inaccuracy could limit the device’s utility for monitoring oven/cooker temperatures.
The manufacturer states on Amazon that it provides a “life-time guarantee.” Probes will be replaced free if they fail. However, there is no contact information of any kind in the owner’s manual that comes with the product. It’s not clear if Amazon stands behind this claim.
The build quality is average to somewhat above average. There is no statement about the device’s environmental immunity; I wouldn’t want to leave this unit out in the rain.
Overall, we give this unit a Bronze Medal for reasonably good build quality and average accuracy, but the lack of customer service contact information knocks it down from Silver. It is priced competitively given that it comes with six probes. The app is user-friendly and includes the set of features one would expect for this type of gear.
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