Every family has one: the person who checks the radar before a picnic, keeps a rain log, and knows the difference between a watch and a warning. We’ve been testing weather gear for years, so this list skips the novelty junk and sticks to things a weather lover will actually use. It’s sorted by budget, and we’ll keep it updated through the holidays.
Jump to: Under $50 · $50 to $100 · $100 and up · Holiday deals · Order-by dates
Disclosure: The Weather Station Experts and Cirrusly Weather are owned by the same people. We earn money from Cirrusly sales, and commissions from Amazon and other links on this page.
Ordering for Christmas? Order printed shirts, mugs, and drop-shipped items by Dec 10, and everything else by Dec 15. At Cirrusly Weather, our sister store, shipping is free on orders over $60 in the lower 48 through Dec 15, and from Nov 27 to Nov 30 the lower-priced of two Holiday Gifts is half off. All the deals and dates
Before You Shop
Before diving into our deals, ensure you’re an Amazon Prime member! Some deals are Prime Exclusives, so joining now gets you access to the best holiday deals, and you can cancel at any time!
Not sure what to get? Let them pick. Amazon also offers Prime gift memberships for as little as $14.99 per month or $139 per year. (We know from experience as weather geeks that you’ll buy much more once you start weather-watching!)
Under $50: stocking stuffers
If you’re looking for something quick, inexpensive, and weather-themed, check out these suggestions first.
A T-shirt or mug. We’d recommend you check out Cirrusly Weather’s line of T-shirts for an inexpensive (and slightly humorous) gift for the weather nut in your life. We think this design states our obsession with the weather (and most others’) quite well.
I Take Weather Cirrusly T-Shirt
An indoor/outdoor thermometer. The most-used weather tool there is, and the one most people still don’t own a good one of. Here’s our top five picks there, although expect to pay at least $30 or so for a good one.
Best Indoor Outdoor Thermometers
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La Crosse Technology C85845-INT Weather Station
While we generally don’t recommend this brand as there are better options, one thing La Crosse Technology does well is indoor and outdoor thermometers. One of the best indoor-outdoor thermometers is the C85845-INT, which features an adjustable brightness color display and an attractive console that doesn’t take up much space and the temperature is readable from a considerable distance. In addition to indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity, this large display indoor outdoor thermometer also measures the dewpoint and heat index, and “comfort levels” are shown below the humidity readings. While the C85845-INT does measure barometric pressure to provide a forecast, that information isn’t shown. The console runs off AC power, with 3 AA batteries as backup (the outdoor sensor also requires batteries).What we like
- Large, bright display
- Battery backup
Keep in mind
- Accuracy isn’t great without optional radiation shield for the outdoor sensor
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Ambient Weather WS-10 Wireless Indoor/Outdoor 8-Channel Thermo-Hygrometer
While the La Crosse C85845 is nice, it can only measure the temperature inside and outside at one location of your choice. That’s not the case with the Ambient Weather WS-10. The large display allows you to monitor the current temperature and relative humidity in up to eight locations, four at any given time (one sensor is inside the console, and you can add up to seven more wireless sensors). You can also use the Ambient Weather F007TP probe sensor to monitor your pool’s temperature. While there is no built-in wireless connectivity to store data (max/min records are stored on the console), we think the WS-10 is a steal, and the battery life of the sensors should provide up to a year of continuous operation. - 3
ThermoPro TP62 Digital Wireless Hygrometer
If budget is a big concern for you, look no further than the ThermoPro TP62. It is the cheapest recommendation on our list and gets great reviews, and unlike some cheaper models has a backlit display. While this package includes just a single sensor, you can add up to two more sensors. The console is small and compact. However, it features a large LCD readout, making it easy to view from a distance. Accuracy suffers a bit and it’s nowhere near as accurate as our other recommendations (accuracy issues were the most common poor review). But if you are looking for a low-cost alternative, this is the most popular and best-reviewed budget WiFi temperature sensor. However, like anything cheap, you do get what you pay for. - 4
La Crosse 308-1414MB-INT Weather Station with Mold Indicator
If you have a mold problem, the La Crosse 308-1414MB-INT is a good choice. If you live in a damp home, you’re probably all too familiar with mold. It thrives in cool and humid environments, so it’s crucial to where mold is most likely to grow. The La Crosse 308-1414MB-INT monitors these conditions and will sound an alert if it believes there is a high risk of mold growth. Otherwise, the feature set is similar to the C85845-INT, our top pick. If you don’t have mold issues, that might be the better option (the good news is they’re often priced about the same on Amazon if you don’t know which one to choose!). - 5
AcuRite Notos (3-in-1) Weather Station
If you’d like something a little more than just a indoor-outdoor thermometer, the AcuRite Notos is technically a weather station, although it doesn’t measure rainfall.
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A digital hygrometer. Useful for anyone fighting winter dryness or a damp basement. Most are below $30, and during sales, even cheaper.
Best Hygrometers
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Govee WiFi Hygrometer Thermometer Sensor 3 Pack
At first glance, the Govee WiFi Hygrometer Thermometer 3-Pack looks like a great deal and is similar to the Temp Stick WiFi temperature sensor. However, there are some critical differences between the Temp Stick or the SensorPush and Govee’s version. While it is Wi-Fi-capable, it only allows you to view data from your sensors while on the same network as the WiFi gateway included in the package. Like most other WiFi temperature sensors, you cannot view your data over the internet through the app. The battery life of only four months is pretty short among the devices we reviewed for our Best WiFi Temperature Sensor of 2022 rankings. However, you can go wrong at this price. The WiFi gateway can support more than the three sensors it ships with, up to 10 sensors in all, two more than the Ambient Weather WS-10.What we like
- Inexpensive way to monitor multiple locations
- You can add more and view on app
Keep in mind
- You can only view your data when you’re on the same Wi-Fi network, no remote access
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ThermoPro TP60
If budget is a big concern for you, look no further than the ThermoPro TP60S. It is the cheapest recommendation on our list and has over 10,000 reviews, two-thirds five stars. While this package includes just a single sensor, you can add up to two more sensors. The console is small and compact. However, it features a large LCD readout, making it easy to view from a distance. Accuracy suffers a bit and it’s nowhere near as accurate as our other recommendations (accuracy issues were the most common poor review for the ThermoPro TP60S). But if you are looking for a low-cost alternative, this is the most popular and best-reviewed budget WiFi temperature sensor. However, like anything cheap, you do get what you pay for.What we like
- Inexpensive option for humidity monitoring
Keep in mind
- No remote access or Wi-Fi
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Maximum Stratus Hygrometer
The Maximum Stratus likely will only be an option as part of a broader set of Maximum instruments due to its price (which explains its lower rating in our metrics – don’t confuse it for a knock on the instrument overall. In fact, it’s the most accurate hygrometer on our list. A user-adjustable needle at the center instrument allows you to spot changes in humidity, although this must be set manually. An external sensor and AC adapter is included, with 60 feet of cable allowing for optimal placement.What we like
- Extremely accurate measurements
- Beautiful heirloom quality casing
Keep in mind
- Extremely expensive on its own
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Caliber IV Digital Hygrometer and Thermometer
Cigar Oasis’ analog hygrometer does well for most applications, but you’re only getting a measurement of the humidity within your humidor at that time. What happens inside your humidor when you’re not looking? It’s not easy to maintain the same humidity level for long periods. If you want a more comprehensive look at your humidor humidity levels, opt for the Cigar Oasis Caliber IV Digital Hygrometer by Western Humidor. Pre-calibrated out of the box, the Caliber IV stores a three-day average of both temperature and humidity levels. Like the analog hygrometer, the Caliber IV has a magnetic mount and a slim profile that allows it to fit within most humidors. It runs on a CR2032 watch battery, and you should get several months of battery life with everyday use.What we like
- Great for maintaining stable temperature and humidity
Keep in mind
- More expensive than analog options
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Cigar Oasis Analog Hygrometer by Western Humidor
Humidor monitoring is probably one of the most common uses for a hygrometer. Long-term cigar freshness is highly dependent on maintaining proper humidity levels. If there’s too little humidity in your humidor, your cigars will dry out and crack. If there’s too much humidity, they become soggy and burn unevenly, not to mention the potential for mold growth. If you need a cheap and simple humidor hygrometer, the Analog Hygrometer by Western Humidor is a well-reviewed option, which is why we’ve included it in our best hygrometers list. This hygrometer is accurate within one percent and features an easy-to-read dial beneath a scratch and fog-resistant glass face in a brass-style aluminum case. The case features a magnetic mount on the back and an adjustment screw if you ever need to calibrate the hygrometer. If you prefer not to mess with the visual aesthetics of your humidor with a digital hygrometer, this is a great option. However, we think our next pick would better serve true cigar enthusiasts.What we like
- No batteries to replace
Keep in mind
- Cigar enthusiasts will likely want a hygrometer with more features
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Gift Tip: Sometimes, both temperature and humdity readings are important. If that’s the case, consider a remote temperature sensor (sometimes called a Wi-Fi temperature sensor instead.
Best Remote Temperature Sensors
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SensorPush HTP.xw
The SensorPush HTP.xw is the company’s top-end model and measures temperature, humidity, and pressure (one of the few WiFi temperature sensors we know that can do that). With higher-quality instrumentation, readings should be more accurate — however, you’ll still need the WiFi gateway to connect your sensor to the internet for remote access. That puts it in the neighborhood price-wise of the Temp Stick, which we feel is an overall better buy.What we like
- Water-resistant
- Barometric pressure readings
- Compact size
Keep in mind
- All those features come at a price
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ThermoPro TP62 Digital Wireless Hygrometer
If budget is a big concern for you, look no further than the ThermoPro TP62. It is the cheapest recommendation on our list and gets great reviews, and unlike some cheaper models has a backlit display. While this package includes just a single sensor, you can add up to two more sensors. The console is small and compact. However, it features a large LCD readout, making it easy to view from a distance. Accuracy suffers a bit and it’s nowhere near as accurate as our other recommendations (accuracy issues were the most common poor review). But if you are looking for a low-cost alternative, this is the most popular and best-reviewed budget WiFi temperature sensor. However, like anything cheap, you do get what you pay for. - 3
SensorPush HT1
Measuring a little over 1.5 inches square and less than three-quarters of an inch thick, you can fit this just about anywhere, and it lasts an entire year on a single charge. SensorPush also offers two higher-end options: the HT.w, which increases battery life to two years and is water resistant, and the HT.xw, which adds barometric pressure and higher-quality instrumentation. One big drawback to the SensorPush wireless thermometer hygrometer is its data storage capabilities and lack of WiFi connectivity. Unless you purchase the WiFi gateway, you’re limited to connecting to the device via Bluetooth and can’t remotely monitor the sensor. But if these aren’t a concern, you can save quite a bit of money over the Temp Stick by going with the SensorPush instead, whose temperature accuracy rivals the Temp Stick thanks to a Swiss-made sensing component.What we like
- Small, can fit anywhere
Keep in mind
- Bluetooth only, Wi-Fi optional
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Kestrel Drop D3 Wireless Temperature, Humidity and Pressure Data Logger
Kestrel’s trademark accuracy now comes in much smaller sizes. The D3, short for the three variables it measures—temperature, humidity, and pressure—can be placed (or hung) just about anywhere. You can monitor temperature, humidity, heat index, dew point temperature, station pressure, density altitude, and pressure trend in any environment, wet or dry. The Kestrel LiNK app—the same one used for its weather meters—allows you to store thousands of data points and customize logging rate, connections, and temperature alerts. You can also view, save, and share data from multiple DROPs with any Bluetooth-enabled iOS or Android device.What we like
- Accuracy, of course
Keep in mind
- Slightly more expensive than similar models from competitors
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Kestrel Drop D3FW Fire Weather Monitor
When managing a burn site, knowing environmental conditions are within prescription is important for compliance and to ensure a fire doesn’t get out of control. Gathering sufficient weather data from site visits to decide when to burn can be challenging. In addition to the full wind and weather readings from a Kestrel weather meter, the new Kestrel DROP data loggers can be left on site recording a history of conditions and trends, which can be viewed on a mobile device and shared via email.What we like
- Small and easy to place
Keep in mind
- Live monitoring isn’t possible when out of range
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Kestrel Drop D2AG Livestock Heat Stress Monitor
The Kestrel Drop D2AG Livestock Heat Stress Monitor is a very affordable, rugged heat stress monitor used in the barn, during transport, or anywhere livestock are housed. Hang in place wherever insight into conditions is needed, and access current conditions and historical readings with your iOS or Android device. Kestrel consulted with experts in livestock heat stress to design the D2AG, and the DROP itself can store thousands of data points.What we like
- Perfect for farmers in regions where heat stress can be an issue
Keep in mind
- Requires you to be within Bluetooth range for live monitoring
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A good weather book. Sometimes just curling up with a good book is good enough, and they also make great stocking stuffers.
Weather Books
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Weather Watch: An Introduction to America's Weather and Climate
Experience the fascinating world of weather with the second edition of Weather Watch: An Introduction to America’s Weather and Climate. This book doesn’t just explain weather and climate concepts—it brings them to life. Weather Watch is perfect for teenagers and adults who wish to deepen their understanding of the dynamic world of meteorology. Simplifying the complex, this book breaks down the science of weather into smaller, easily digestible concepts, allowing you to build on your knowledge with each chapter. - 2
The Man Who Caught the Storm: The Life of Legendary Tornado Chaser Tim Samaras
This book is a good gift for tornado lovers, storm chasers, and weather enthusiasts who want a closer look at storm chasing life and its dangers. Tornadoes can be devastatingly destructive but also represent a beautiful part of nature, as storm chaser Tim Samaras tragically found out.
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$50 to $100: For a little more “wow”
Have a little more to spend? We’ll be completely honest: weather gifts in this range have a lot more utility in many cases, and have that wow factor in some cases those less expensive gifts may not (we know, weather is an expensive hobby!).
A copper rain gauge. These rain gauges are solid copper, winter-safe, made in the USA, and arrive gift-boxed. The garden-stake version is the classic; the deck and fence mounts suit smaller yards. With an El Niño winter, it might get more use than you think.
World's Coolest Copper Rain Gauges
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World's Coolest 24" Copper Rain Gauge
A decorative, all-copper rain gauge for readers who want their yard instrument to double as a garden centerpiece. The 24″ tube gives a large capacity so it needs emptying less often, and the copper develops a natural patina over time that many buyers specifically want.What we like
- Real copper construction
- Sturdy, lasts for years
Keep in mind
- Premium price for an analog gauge
- Measurements under .25" of rain are difficult
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World's Coolest Copper Rain Gauge, Minimalist Deck Mount
The copper gauge in a single low-profile ring that screws to a wood rail.World’s Coolest Rain Gauge – Copper, Minimalist Deck MountView at Cirrusly WeatherUSD 44.00In stockAs of - 3
World's Coolest Copper Rain Gauge, Post or Fence Mount
Mounts to a fence, post or rail with a powder-coated steel plate. Measures up to 5.5 inches. - 4
World's Coolest Copper Rain Gauge, Tabletop
Patio-ready: stands on a table or pedestal and stays put in a storm. - 5
World's Coolest Copper Rain Gauge, Deck Clamp Mount
Clamps to a deck or balcony rail up to 3-3/4 inches thick. No tools.
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An analog altimeter. Battery-free altitude and barometric pressure for hikers (Altimeter 202 or the hard-case 203), or on the dashboard for mountain drives (AltiLINQ and the six-function Navigat’r) are both attractive options for those looking for gift ideas for the outdoor enthusiast.
Sun Company Altimeters
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Sun Company Altimeter 202
A compact analog altimeter and barometer for climbers and hikers. No batteries. - 2
Sun Company Altimeter 203
Analog altimeter and barometer in a rugged hardside case; reads altitude to 15,000 feet. - 3
Sun Company AltiLINQ
Battery-free dashboard altimeter and barometer that moves easily between two vehicles. - 4
Sun Company Navigat'r 6-Function Altimeter
A six-function dashboard altimeter for road trips and mountain passes.
A weather or emergency radio. NOAA alerts with hand-crank or solar backup for winter storms. While most might associate weather radios with summer’s severe weather season, winter warnings are broadcast just the same.
Best Weather Radios
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Midland WR400 Weather Radio with SAME
It might be one of the market’s most expensive desktop weather radios, but the Midland WR400 is the company’s top-end model and the best weather radio. We own the WR400: it does much more than alert you to severe weather. It also includes an alarm clock and can tune into AM and FM radio stations. If an alert comes through while listening to an AM or FM station, the WR400 automatically switches to the weather radio broadcast, allowing you to hear it. There’s even a USB port to charge a device. The Midland WR400 is Public Alert certified, meaning it can receive the standard SAME alerts and newer ones, including non-weather alerts. A large, easy-to-read display tells you the warning so you can react accordingly. The WR400 depends on 4 AA batteries for emergency power, but battery life will be an issue during long-term power outages.What we like
- Replaces your alarm clock
- 4 ‘AA’ for emergency power
- AM/FM radio and clock included
- USB-A port to charge a device
Keep in mind
- One of the most expensive weather radios on the market
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Midland WR120B Weather Radio with SAME
To our understanding, the Midland WR120B is the company’s best-selling model. If you can’t afford the WR300, you can still find a radio that supports all the features we think are critical, including SAME technology in the Midland WR120. It’s also Public Alert certified. It’s not as easy to use as the WR300, but with some extra work, you should be able to set up the alerts for your location. It even features a built-in clock with an alarm and snooze so you can wake up to the latest weather report each morning. The biggest issue with the WR120B is that there is no battery backup, so when the power’s out, the radio doesn’t work.What we like
- SAME support
- Affordable
- Built-in clock
Keep in mind
- No battery backup
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Reecom R-1650D SAME Weather Alert Radio
While Reecom is an off-brand, Amazon reviews on this one are pretty good, and it’s one of the few non-Midland radios that supports SAME technology (this allows you to see the alert type on the screen). We’d love to hear from readers about your experiences if you own this particular model.What we like
- Often on sale
- Supports SAME
Keep in mind
- Unknown brand
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Sangean CL-100 Weather Radio
Sangean isn’t a well-known name in the US market but is better known overseas. Their shortwave radios are high quality, and the CL-100 SAME weather radio is no exception. The radio is Public Alert certified, which means it meets specific requirements (full SAME support is one) to warn of severe weather adequately. While the radio is bulky, the CL-100’s design hasn’t changed much in the two decades (yes, you read that right) it’s been out. Verified purchasers report that the alarm is loud and the overall performance of the radio is good. However, the battery backup doesn’t last as long as the Midland radios, which scored higher in our tests. However, the overall quality of this radio is excellent, with 70% of ratings on Amazon five stars.What we like
- SAME support
- Louder volume and better audio quality
Keep in mind
- Poor battery life
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Midland ER10VP Emergency Alert Radio
The Midland ER10VP looks like an emergency radio, but it’s more like a weather radio since it requires 3 ‘AAA’ batteries and has no hand crank. The biggest feature is its size, which is meant to fit in your pocket. We could see this being useful for outdoor activities especially. While the Midland ER10VP doesn’t support SAME alerts, it automatically turns on when an alert is detected. Also included is an AM/FM radio and a flashlight.What we like
- Auto-on for Alerts
- Compact
- Runs on 3 ‘AAA’ batteries
Keep in mind
- No SAME support
- Battery life
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A personal lightning detector. Warns of strikes miles away, before you hear thunder. If you’re looking for something more basic, AcuRite’s detector does well. However, we strongly recommend the TALOS for its accuracy.
Best Lightning Detectors
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Talos Lightning Strike Detector
Understandably, not everybody needs the functionality of a weather station. If you’re looking for excellent performance and accuracy, then the US-built TALOS Lightning & Storm Detector is the way to go. This portable unit gets great reviews for its detection capabilities and is chock full of functionality. With a rugged and waterproof design, we could see this lightning detector becoming popular with outdoor enthusiasts. The device’s front features a strip of LEDs that use different colors to display strike distances up to 25 miles. We’ve heard buyers report they’ve detected strikes with the TALOS lightning detector more than 40 miles away, especially over water. The TALOS is not cheap, however, and is one of the more expensive out there. But it’s an accurate device, and its superb detection capabilities and its resistance to interference make it the best personal lightning detector.What we like
- Exceptional performance and accuracy
- Reports of 40 mile range over water
Keep in mind
- Higher cost
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Strike Alert HD Lightning Detector
Some may prefer more than just LEDs to warn of incoming lightning strikes. In this case, we’d recommend Robic’s Strike Alert HD Lightning Detector. It’s more expensive than the TALOS and uses different colored LEDs to indicate lightning strike distance; however, the display offers more detail on nearby strikes. The display offers information on one-hour storm trends and lightning intensity, and an audible alarm is triggered when strikes are detected close by. Robic also claims “360-degree detection,” claiming its competitors suffer from “blind spots.” Even with the additional functionality, the Robic still has incredible battery life. On just two AA batteries, the Robic Strike Alert HD Lightning Detector lasts quite a while, but we’d warn it’s nowhere near the 80 hours that Robic claims.What we like
- More detail on strikes than the TALOS provides thanks to the display
Keep in mind
- Battery life claims are exaggerated
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AcuRite 02020 Portable Lightning Detector
If you’re on a really tight budget and can accept a little less accuracy, the AcuRite 02020 Portable Lightning Detector is a good buy. While it is much more susceptible to interference than the above models, The AcuRite 02020 does an acceptable job in most situations. This Acurite lightning detector has a detection range of about 25 miles, with both a visual (a flashing red LED light on the top) and an audio alert when strikes occur. The screen will display strike distances each time it registers a strike and an overall strike count. The display is backlit, making it useful even in low-light situations. The biggest issue with the AcuRite 02020 is its susceptibility to interference and a tendency to get “stuck.” Buyers report problems with false strikes and that from time to time, the device would ask users to change their location but not resume operation when they do. - 4
Robic Strike Alert Personal Lightning Detector
If long battery life is your primary concern, then we’d recommend opting for the Robic Strike Alert Personal Lightning Detector. Generally, its detection capabilities are good, although perhaps not as free from interference issues as the TALOS detectors. But no other detector comes close in terms of battery life, that’s for sure.What we like
- Long battery life
Keep in mind
- Susceptible to interference issues
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General Tools Personal Lightning Detector #LD7
Generally, lightning detectors are expensive weather gadgets. But General Tools is known for its high-quality, low-cost tools; surprisingly, the LD7 works well. While we haven’t tried out the LD7 personally, it caught our eye during Amazon searches for its generally good reviews given its price. Unlike the other detectors, the LD7 can be attached to a keychain or belt using the included carabiner.What we like
- Low cost and accurate
Keep in mind
- Interference may pose an issue
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A weather hoodie or crewneck. The winter months are much colder, so why not opt for a weather-themed hoodie? Cirrusly Weather has the I Take Weather Cirrusly design we recommended above in a sweatshirt, but we also are big fans of this hoodie if a meterologist is on your list.
Trust Me I'm a Meteorologist Hoodie
$100 and up: For the “big” gift
Maybe you’re looking for that “big” gift, or want something truly useful. If you’re able to spend $100 or more, you’ll have a much wider selection of gift ideas, including several weather stations we highly recommend.
A handheld weather meter. Wind, temperature, and more in a pocket-sized meter for hikers, sailors, and pilots. These vary in price considerably, including several models under $200.
Best Handheld Weather Stations
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Kestrel 5000 Environmental Meter with Link
There’s no doubt about it: the Kestrel 5000 is a beast of a handheld weather station. While the Kestrel 5500 is the company’s top-of-the-line model, the additional functionality you get is primarily targeted toward wind-sensitive uses (crosswind, tailwind, etc.) You won’t need that in most cases. As a result, the Kestrel 5000 is $80 cheaper (MSRP). We’d strongly recommend purchasing the model with LiNK. Using a mobile phone and Kestrel’s app, you can view data up to 100 feet away from the device, making it useful for taking fixed readings without having to stand in the elements to do it.What we like
- Data logging capabilities
- A full weather station in your pocket
- Highly accurate
Keep in mind
- As expensive as a home weather station
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Kestrel 3000 Pocket Weather Meter
A step up from the Kestrel 2000, which adds temperature to the wind meter, is the Kestrel 3000. The device can also measure humidity, such as dewpoint and heat index. That’s why the company dubbed it a “heat stress monitor,” we think this would be useful for those who spend a lot of time outdoors for work. However, if you don’t have a real use for this data, we’d recommend stepping down to the much more reasonably priced Kestrel 2000. The nice thing about Kestrel meters is that the instrumentation is generally the same across the entire line, so you’re not losing accuracy, just features.What we like
- Adds humidity readings to gauge heat stress
- Perfect for outdoor jobs
Keep in mind
- Feels like the 3500 is a better value
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Kestrel Ballistics 2700 Ballistics Weather Meter
When shooting long-range, changes in distance, air density, and wind greatly impact where your bullet will hit. The Kestrel 2700 Ballistics Meter is a relatively inexpensive option to help you improve your accuracy. This model supports LiNK, allowing you to connect your meter to your smartphone. We’d recommend this particular meter over the Kestrel 2000, especially if you’re a hunter or marksman. The meter’s functionality is geared towards this use, versus the 2000, which is more intended for everyday meteorological use.What we like
- It’s a better option for marksmen
- One of the few lower end Kestrel meters with LiNK
Keep in mind
- Slightly more expensive than the comparable Kestrel 2000
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Weatherflow WEATHERmeter
The Weatherflow WEATHERmeter is a highly accurate handheld device used with your smartphone to measure wind, temperature, humidity and pressure. The device connects wirelessly up to 100 feet away. Record weather data in a variety of compatible apps including the free Wind & Weather Meter app and share reports instantly via email, SMS, Twitter, Instagram, and more. - 5
Weatherflow WINDmeter
The WeatherFlow WINDmeter is a highly accurate handheld device that can be used with your smartphone to measure wind. It connects wirelessly up to 100 feet away. Record weather data in a variety of compatible apps, including the free Wind & Weather Meter app, and share reports instantly via email, SMS, Twitter, Instagram, and more. - 6
BTMETER BT-100 Handheld Anemometer
If your budget is super tight, the BTMETER BT-100 wind speed meter is a popular seller on Amazon (as well as a popular alternative among TWSE readers, too). For casual use, the BT-100 is perfect as it retails for under $40, and measures all of the commonly included variables like temperature, wind, and wind chill. But the BT-100 isn’t necessarily built for this use: instead, it (and other copycat models on Amazon) are for technicians to test the performance of HVAC units. But buyers are using it for weather, and with a good degree of success too. Keep in mind that wind readings max out at 67mph, and the margin of error is a rather large 5% — far bigger than any of our previous recommendations.What we like
- Inexpensive
Keep in mind
- You get what you pay for
- Large margin of error
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Ambient Weather WS-2902. Our long-running pick for a first home weather station: accurate, reliable and easy to set up.
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Ambient Weather WS-2902
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Tempest Weather System. No moving parts and lightning detection built in.
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Tempest Weather System
Ecowitt Wittboy.
We earn a commission when you buy through some links on this page. Cirrusly Weather is our sister store, owned by the same people as The Weather Station Experts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Ecowitt Wittboy
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Davis Vantage Vue: The station we’ve run since 2016, for someone ready for professional-grade data.
We earn a commission when you buy through some links on this page. Cirrusly Weather is our sister store, owned by the same people as The Weather Station Experts. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
Davis Vantage Vue
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A Maximum analog instrument. Brass barometers, thermometers, and wind instruments that look as good on a wall as they read.
Maximum Barometers
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Maximum Predictor Accurate Meteorological Grade Barometer – Brass Case, Silver Dial
Maximum Proteus Aneroid Barometer – Brass Case, Black Dial
Certain content that appears on this site comes from Amazon. This content is provided “as is” and is subject to change or removal at any time.
Holiday deals
Amazon’s deals change daily; we’ll note the best ones on our Black Friday deals post. At Cirrusly Weather, our sister store:
- Free shipping on orders over $60 in the lower 48, through Dec 15.
- Nov 27 to Nov 30: buy two Holiday Gifts, and the lower-priced one is half off, plus 10% off shirts, hoodies, and mugs.
- SmartLab weather kits are 20% off through Dec 15.
Order-by dates
For the best chance of delivery by Christmas, order printed shirts, mugs, and drop-shipped items by Dec 10, and everything else by Dec 15. Amazon’s dates vary by seller.