ThermoPro 2-in-1 Digital Wireless and Instant Read Thermometer (TempSpike Plus TP970 + TempSwift ELITE TP620): problems, parts and running costs

Checked: 2026-10-14

Summary

The set pairs a wireless leave-in probe that must be inserted all the way to its handle with an instant-read thermometer. Common issues are the 212°F food-sensor ceiling, ambient readings running low on the earlier generation, and the 600 ft range being line-of-sight. There are no consumables, so yearly running cost is $0; the pack is a good buy near the manufacturer’s ~$70 value-pack price. [1][5][8]

Common problems and fixes

Probe must be inserted to the handle — the TP970 probe is 2.5 in long and its minimum insertion depth is also 2.5 in, leaving zero usable depth range, so thin steaks, chops and fish fillets are awkward. No workaround beyond choosing thicker cuts; not a warranty issue. [5][7]
Food sensor capped at 212°F — the food sensor tops out at 212°F and the manufacturer warns exceeding it can damage the electronics, so the tip must stay in the cooler center. [1][5]
Ambient readings can run low — an owner of the earlier TempSpike reported the ambient sensor reading roughly 60-115°F below a wired reference in a smoker; AmazingRibs did not retest ambient on the Plus. Placement and airflow matter; no fix documented. [8][5]
Range is line-of-sight — the 600 ft claim is reduced by walls and a smoker or grill lid; the booster must sit near the cooker with a clear path to the phone. [1][7]
TP620 response claim varies — the TP620 is a relabeled TP19X; TempPro claims 0.5 s while ThermoPro Singapore lists 1-3 s for the same hardware. No independent test of the exact TP620 was found. [2][12]
Build and charging complaints — one owner calls the plastic base cheap with wonky charging and poor range; another reports ThermoPro replaced a faulty unit free of charge. [10][9]

Parts and consumables

No replaceable parts or consumables reported.

Yearly running cost

No consumables, filters or subscriptions are required, so a typical owner spends $0 per year; the TP970 probe is IP67 and described as dishwasher-safe, and the TP620 is IP65 rinse-only. The only recurring risk is battery wear, which is not documented as replaceable. [1][2][5]

When it is a good buy

Store prices observed: TP970 + TP620 value pack $69.99 against a $129.99 reference; TP970 standalone $89.99 (also seen as $99.99 and $199.99); TP620 $39.99 list and $19.99 sale; Home Depot listed the earlier combo at $89.99. [3][4][13]

Around $80-100 it still makes sense for low-and-slow cooks who can live with a 2.5-inch probe and a 212°F food-sensor ceiling. Above roughly $110-130, the TP980 TempSpike Pro with Wi-Fi, four probes and a ±0.5°F rating at $99.99-$124.99 direct is more capability for similar money. [3][4][5][11]

Named alternatives: the TP980 TempSpike Pro (Wi-Fi, four probes, ±0.5°F) for cooks who want more probes and remote monitoring [11]; the original TempSpike TP960 has a longer 5.16 in probe if thin cuts are not the issue [6].