One of the best comparisons of these 2 brands I've seen. A couple of things about the Fireboard (I've had Version 1 for 4 years) that I've found very useful: 1) You can control the fan speed directly by setting it to Manual and then entering a value between 1 and 100 which is the percentage of full speed desired. This is instead of controlling the fan by temperature so you can leave the probe out and bring the temps above 500 with ease or use it to keep a breeze on a cold-smoke session. You can also set the maximum percent of fan speed ( when controlling the cook by temperature) in case the fan is too powerful for your cooker. 2) You can insert notes and photos on the graph timeline both during and after the cook. This is incredibly valuable for documenting your progress and how the food looks along the way. There seems to be no limit to the amount of info you can store about each cook. In addition, you can edit all stored cooks at anytime. 3) Each cook can be named, just as with the channels. All your cooks are stored in the cloud automatically and can be searched from the app. This makes the Fireboard into a self-writing cookbook! 4) You can control the Fireboard from a desktop browser in addition to a smartphone. 5) You can share a link to a live, read-only view of the cook (even older ones) so anyone you wish can watch it in real time. 6) I don't know about the Bellows but the Fireboard ramps the fan SPEED up and down as it manages the cook. The result for me is usually temperatures that vary LESS THAN 1 DEGREE as long as you keep the cooker closed. I use mine on both a Kamado Joe Big Joe and an Oklahoma Joe Bronco with similar results. Most fan/controllers seem to use an on/off method which is implicitly less invariable. 7) There is a "lid detect" setting that will shut the an off for a set time (default=5 minutes) after you open the lid. This is really helpful with kamado cookers which will heat up fast each time you open the lid during a cook. Don't know is Bellows has this.
Great video. I had both a Signals and a FireBoard 2 Drive. I recently packed up the Signals with the Billows and sold them. As good as ThermoWorks products are (great company and I own a few of their products) I think FireBoard beats out the Signals for me at least. I find the FB App much better as well as the battery life. The display on the Signals is too busy for me and not having to connect a separate device to power the blower is also a plus with the FB. Yeah I wish the FB had magnets built in and a few other features on board via the buttons as the Signals does. Both great units but I had both and personally prefer the FireBoard.
Thank you. Appreciate the kind words. Very good information that you shared. As I said, and you pointed out as well, both are great units. Really just going to be what the user prefers more. Since both units can update via firmware, I had to stick with mainstay features to focus on so the information stays relevant for a while. Fireboard has added a few features since doing this video too like the estimated finished cooking time. - Sam
I just picked up the Signals. It was on sale for $71.70 off, making it $167.30. At first the battery life was a concern, but then I realized, I'll probably never be smoking anything for longer than 10 hours. And if I do in the future, I have a ton of battery packs that I could plug in while it's cooking. While the $167.30 is still more than I wanted to spend right now, I already have a Thermopen thermometer that has worked flawlessly for about 3 years now. And decided to give their Signals a chance. I'll probably never use any fan system when I smoke so that's not a big deal for me either. I do love that I don't need a separate transmitter like others and can use my phone.
Thank you for talking about the apps! This is exactly the info I was looking for that no other reviewers touched base on. I know the signals is on sale today, but I think im leaning towards the Fireboard due to battery life, and the app looks better imo. I think another thing important to mention is that the Signals warranty is 2 years, and Fireboard is 1 year. I think Fireboard should bump it up to 2 to compete.
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching. Glad this could help. In videos like this, I used to touch on price and warranty but since that info can change, I just leave it out so the info in the video stays current longer. Both units are great so unless really tough on the unit, I don’t see the warranty coming into play. This is the type of purchase that it’s better to pay for what you like better. You’re going to use this when you cook and the last thing you want is to not be happy with a tool you use frequently. - Sam
This is one of the best instructional videos I've ever found for things I'm interested in. I did a random Google search for Fire Board vs Thermoworks. Very grateful to find this video. Right to the point, objective and very clear! Thank you!
Excellent breakdown of the Features of these 2 units. Helps to make a decision between them. Your final "Paraphrase" sealed the deal for me. Very much appreciate the time and effort put into this particular content. I've been split between the 2 but not anymore. Then - you guys are from Tampa. I grew up there. I will have to research how the fans attach to the Vision Grill Pro S model but I'm sure somewhere there is content for that. Thanks again
The FireBoard allows the east use of fans from other companies & is a variable speed fan which I like. And, I like the ability to source fans from Pit Boss & others
Great informative video. I just ordered the fireboard 2 bundle. Should be here in 2 days. Im super excited to test it out on an overnight brisket cook. I was torn between, Fireboard, Thermoworks, and Flame boss. All the app features, plus waterproof, and battery life of the fireboard helped swing my decision.
Love my FireBoard 2 Drive that I use with my Weber Summit Charcoal/now Kamado. One thing to keep in mind, is if you are doing a long cook, and your fan comes on often, battery life is significantly reduced. Sometimes I have to plug in my unit after ten hours. Also, FireBoard had an update I actually looked at the other night, and it changes as does conditions do, that pretty much can tell you when your cook is going to be completed, which is a predictive analyze section.
Thanks for sharing! The battery should last much longer than what you’re experiencing with the fan. Usually the only times I’ve run into needing to plug it in is around the 21-24 hour mark. The Analyze feature came out after making this video. I allude to Fireboard always coming out with newer updates and features more frequently. I need to make a new video on this topic again. Thanks for watching. - Sam
Fantastic video! You did a great job of highlighting the things important to a stick burner pitmaster. I still can't decide, but at least I know what my information is. :)
Thank you. Either way, you really can't go wrong. Reliability and accuracy is most important which both of these brands prioritize. It's kind of like choosing a Mercedes or Porsche. Both make great great cars but each one has their own features you might prefer a little more than the other. - Sam
We’ve got both. Welcome to stop in and we’d be glad to explain more. Personally I like the Fireboard 2 Pro for the heat range the probes can withstand. Both units are great. Just varies based on what the cook at home values most in a unit. - Sam
Thank you! Both great options. Fireboard 2 Pro is really nice. Still have my original Fireboard and feel bad because it works perfectly fine but don’t use it anymore since I have the pro. - Sam
Excellent review, thank you! Regarding the Thermoworks Signals, if the battery is not charged or if it runs out, will the unit operate by plugging the charger in? Also, if the battery ever wears out, is it replaceable?
The units will run if plugged into the charger. As for changing the battery, it’s not like Duracells that you easily changeout. You shouldn’t have to worry about that stuff for a long long time. If that ever becomes the case, I don’t know what the cost is to replace so I can’t say if it’s better to do that or just buy a new unit? I understand why you’re asking but I wouldn’t be concerned. It’s not something we have clients calling or asking about to replace ever. - Sam
Was trying to decide if I wanted to replace my Fireboard with a Thermoworks, get a new Fireboard or keep the old one. Battery life eliminates Thermoworks for me. Too many pork butts and briskets. Also, I’d say Fireboard is not completely waterproof. Mine got wet and now on/off button doesn’t work. After using I just gotta let it die then recharge before using again. Thanks. Great review and comparison.
You're welcome. Thanks for the positive feedback. If you're replacing a Fireboard 1 (The Original) those units didn't come as weatherproof. You had to purchase an additional case to protect it better. With the Fireboard 2 units, they come with a protective housing. The housings are weather-resistant so just like I mention, don't sweat a little water but don't just leave it uncovered in a downpour for instance. - Sam
Thanks, I needed this info, I just purchased the Signal today. I'm just a Backyard smoker, nothing fancy, all I need to do is measure my Ambient temp and meat temp
@@justgrillin I've purchased and returned a few Bluetooth thermometers and this may be the only one that will hold a signal without dropping the signal when I come in the house I I hope.
@@eztongueh2890 Bluetooth is just such a limited range which can be finicky with some units too based on the connection strength. Connecting these units, if an option, to WiFi is the way to go. That’s going to give you the range and freedom to monitor wherever.
@@justgrillin yes, the one that I have coming have wifi capabilities, but from my understanding it has to be connected to Bluetooth to first then set to wifi, Bluetooth only kick in if wifi drops, thats my understanding. Thanks, I'm done bothering you lol
@EzTongue H all good. You're right. It will look for WiFi first, then default to Bluetooth if no WiFi is available and then just function as a standalone if neither WiFi or Bluetooth work/out of range. I was just noting how Bluetooth is such a short range on most units. By option, I just meant having WiFi where you're using the thermometer, not speaking about the actual unit. I use a Meater+ from time to time and where my Bluetooth range cuts off in my house is right before where my couch is so I know the pain of having the Bluetooth range cut short. - Sam
Great review! I love the Fireboard but the only thing that I don’t like is the fact that the fan does not let you bring the pit from cool to hot. Hopefully they release another fan that can do this regardless if they need a separate power adapter… Cheers from Costa Rica.
Great comparison video. Is it possible to view the data for either online on a computer, as in browsing to their website and logging in? Apps are great for setup and during the cook, but not so great after the fact when comparing from cook to cook.
Yes. When you register the units, you create an account that lets you login to the cloud based app on the web. You're the second or third person of recent to bring this up. I made this video a few years ago so there have been some firmware updates to each unit. I didn't think at the time this was too important to mention as we don't really get asked this by our client's much. When I do an updated version later this year, I will most likely include that tidbit this time around. - Sam
Awesome video! You covered the max probe temperatures but how hot can the probe cables go? Also, are the probe cables weatherproof like the units? In my experience with some other brand probes, they end up getting damaged when getting wet. Thanks!
Thank you. Appreciate the kind words. The corresponding cables will be rated to withstand the same temperatures as the probes. Please keep in mind that the regular Fireboard 2 and Drive models have a lower temperature rating than the PRO model I used in this video. I wash the probes in the sink and they're fine. I've left one of the Fireboard Pro cables out in the rain and it was fine. I'm not saying that it's good to do that so maybe it was luck? Repeatedly getting them soaked will probably lead to problems. But they are designed to handle some moisture. - Sam
Very much appreciate the details about the 2 thermometers/controllers. I've found on UA-cam that the meat probe included with the Fireboard 2 is thicker than the pro probes that they sell separately for $65. The included probes with the Thermoworks look thinner. Is this true? When you're probing a rib, it's better to have the thin probes. If this is the case, it would tip the scale toward the Thermoworks for me.
Unless something has changed that I don't know about, the basic probes that come with the Thermoworks Signals and Fireboard 2 and Drive model are pretty similar in thickness. If you're worried about the thickness, just buy one or two competition probes at the same time when buying or afterward getting your hands on the basic probes and determining yourself. The comp probes are $18 a piece from Fireboard. You don't have to buy an entire pack. The Fireboard 2 PRO comes with a much thinner probe but it's a different style. There's only three probe ports on that model but those probes can go up to 1100 degrees. They say 1200 but 1100 should really be the max. This is the model I use at home primarily. Let me know if you have other questions. Thank you for watching and the kind feedback. - Sam
Kamado smokers retain their temperature extremely well, so they don't need a lot of fan strength. Some of the fans designed for Kamado smokers are only 5 or 6 CFM. With larger and/or leakier smokers like offsets or large barrels, the extra CFM would certainly come in handy. CFM means cubic feet (of air) per minute. For reference, the exhaust fans over your stove are usually 375-625 CFM.
They don't design their fans strictly for kamados hence the CFM strength. Kamado's are just one application for the fans. I show it with a cabinet smoker here. It's a life saver when cooking with it. - Sam
@@justgrillin The Fire Boss 500 DOES offer a choice between fans for Kamados vs Universal smokers. The Kamado fan is 6.5 CFM, the Universal version fan is 21 CFM. I bought the Fireboard 2 Pro for its high temp capabilities in my pizza oven, grill and kitchen oven (Christmas roast at 550) as well as the smokers.
Well you're factoring in other products separate of the topic in this video. I'm just keeping my answers specific to the brands compared in this video. While a kamado might not need as strong of a fan we're finding that it's more common to see people with multiple grills and smokers so having one fan that has more strength to it is a better bet. Just because the fan has a higher CFM output doesn't mean that it's going to run at the highest setting the entire time it's in use either. The digital controllers are smart enough to ease back on speed/power based on calculations of the rate of increase in temperature of the pit to get to the set pit temp. - Sam
Really great video!!! I'm waffling between these two units for my Char-griller 980. I'm concerned the 20cfm fan isn't enough. Any particular thoughts? Seems like it's coming down to very small differences. Thanks again!
Thank you! I wouldn’t get caught up in the CFM’s of the fan. Yes, they are different and I point that out. But in terms of strength for a kamado, both are sufficient. I use the Fireboard fan all the time and it works great. Once you’re at your temp, the fans really don’t run very much or with much power when they kick in to maintain temps. - Sam
Great video and thanks. I have an old country bbq pitts gravity smoker similar to the one you have in the video. I’m also considering these two controllers. I’m wondering if I need the extra flow from the billows fan or if the 20 CFM from the fire board is enough to bring the smoker up to temp in a reasonable period of time. Any thoughts?
I don’t think you do. Unless every single minute matters to you there’s not going to be a massive time difference. As long as you have a fan with a unit like this you’ll be happy. - Sam
Just a heads up the Fireboard is not is not designed to bring smokers up to temp. it's designed to only maintain the temp. I wish a software update could be made to fix this. Big let down...... @@justgrillin
@@nbono04 ?? As long as your charcoal is lit, the Fireboard will absolutely help get your smoker up to temperature and then maintain it. It doesn’t light the fire for you but it will do everything else. I use it that way all the time on our Kamado Joe’s and cabinet smokers. - Sam
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching. The Fireboard fan is variable speed. You’ll get different answers to this depending who you ask I’m sure. From my perspective, I’ve never seen much of a difference when using either fan. Both have done what I need them to but maybe I’m not as demanding. I prefer not needing the extra power cable so I use the Fireboard fan more. They say the Fireboard fan might not run full speed and that the thermometer run time will be reduced because it’s pulling power from the unit. Even if the fan doesn’t run full speed, I haven’t noticed enough to complain. I just use the set point feature when I cook and let the unit/fan figure it out. I just smoked a brisket two weeks back and the unit got about 21-22 hours before flashing battery symbol for me to plug in. - Sam
One thing you didn't mention, is that the ThermoWorks has a web interface that you can use with your computer. I use this feature a lot. I don't know about the other device. I don't have one.
You are correct. I did not bring this up. The Fireboard unit has a web interface that can be accessed as well. For time purposes, it's tough to get ever nitty gritty detail in here so the purpose is highlighting main touch points and a few key differences. Appreciate you watching you and bring this up. Always good to know what people are looking to learn about the devices and what features matter to them. - Sam
Great information, thank you. I have questions regarding the max temp for both units. On the Thermoworks site, it shows the probe for the signals goes to 572, the cable to 700 and the transition to 644. You state that the Signals will go to 700, but shouldn’t that be 644, the max for the transition? I understand the probe tip at 572 shouldn’t matter as it will be buried in meat. But, to my view, there will be the rest of the probe, the transition and the cable exposed to the grill, so shouldn’t the low of these three things be the max to expose it to.? As well on the Fireboard it shows the probe going to 1202 but the cable only going to 842 (they do not show a transition temp. Same question, shouldn’t the lower of the two, the cable at 842, be the max to expose it to. My reason for asking is that I am looking for something I can leave in for the whole cook, either indirect and for a sear or reverse sear, or is this even possible? I believe flare ups can be over 1200 degrees and if this type of thermometer can only be used on the indirect side, that’s fine. But if the Fireboard XSi something that can be used at the higher temps for a direct cook, I would go that was and would be worth the extra money. Thank you for your advice!
For the probe itself, it just won’t read beyond the listed temp range. The Fireboard 2 Pro thermocouple probes you can leave in throughout intense heat cooks. They designed it for use in pizza ovens and such. The heat rating is more like 1100 F on those probes from what they told me when I asked before making the video. Probes that get used a decent amount typically get replaced about every two years. The heat factor is just a personal experience. It really varies how long it will hold up. Based on the rating, if you’re always pushing the extreme it will eventually wear itself down faster than a higher rated probe. But usually it takes multiple times to do so. It’s just hard to quantify in specificity. Does that answer your questions? - Sam
Thanks for such a detailed review. I do have a question. Does the Signals unit also have a Hold temp setting for after the target food temp is reached, like the one you showed on the Fireboard?
Both units are going to do whatever you set them to do. You would just simply change your pit temp when running fan control if you wanted to drop it down once your food internal is reached. Nothing changes from what you set these units to monitor/do until you adjust them yourself including once a cook is technically finished. Sometimes I’ve dropped a smoker down to 160 once a brisket hit 205 to actively rest it. - Sam
@@turkeyphant not fully. They are just water resistant for a small period of time. So like the example in the video shows that it’s not going to crap out immediately if a storm catches you off guard but if you leave it out in a long rainstorm, that’s where you can have issues.
Great video but I have a couple questions - I understand the Fire Board pro has three channels, one for Ambient temp and 2 for meat Can you use 3 meat probes to Cook three steaks if you don’t want to use the ambient probe? Does the fire Board pro unit have a speaker that sounds an alarm on the unit in case your phone is inside and you are out by the grill?
1.) Yes. You are not locked in to a specific probe on the Fireboard. You could run three ambient probes if you wanted and same for food probes. 2.) No. All of the alerts are via the App, Text and Email with the Fireboard regardless of which Fireboard unit it is. - Sam
Thank you. Appreciate the kind words. Issues in what way? After two years, I have replaced the food probes. I broke two of them pushing through double wrapped butcher paper. Replacing probes after some time is pretty typical though. - Sam
@@justgrillin Interesting. From early on, they would act up on me. When they sent one of the replacements, it went bad after couple uses as well. I don't abuse them, but it turns out the the insulation inside the cable shield around an inch or so from the connector would separate and create intermittent short circuit, resulting in unstable temperature readings. I have redone the ends by cutting them and using shrink tubing, but I also purchased some pricey American made probes, but they are just 3 ft long. If you are not having unstable readings, specially on your newer replacements, then perhaps they may have been improved. Other than that, it is a great unit.
@@CoolJay77 I think it can just be a crap shoot with probes sometimes. They are fairly fragile (especially the thin thermocouples) so might just be rough luck? Fireboard has good support so I’m sure they take care of certain issues.
@@justgrillin At first they made me wait for months, asking me to wait for firmware updates. Then I had to find the cure on my own. I'll see how the Cooper Atkins probes will fare. But three of those would come close in pricing of the whole Fireboard Pro unit. I understand why they could not have used those. Just perhaps I had bad luck, since yours fared better. Thanks for sharing your experience.
@@CoolJay77 not sure. I only use my unit two to four times a month so that helps with the longevity too. I have too many gadgets that I’m always cycling through and I only do a handful of long smokes where I need it. All my high heat stuff I just poke with the instant read. At least the unit works fine which is most important. It is a great unit. Thanks for sharing your experience. Good or bad, it’s insightful to know other experiences with these products.
@@Gapines23 Don’t understand your last sentence. Both companies make great products. Everything I have from both companies is 3+ years old and all work just fine. I’ve replaced probes from both but that’s normal and happens with any brand of thermometer.
Question... I will use one of these for smoking meats on a pellet grill. My grill holds ambient temps pretty consistently. Is there any reason I'd want a fan version of these?
Great question. No, you would not need a fan. Unless you have plans to add a charcoal grill to your mix in the future there wouldn’t be a need for it. Thermoworks just makes the one Signals unit so you’d always have the capability, you just wouldn’t buy the fan. Fireboard has the base model without the fan tech built in. If you opted for the Pro model, like I used in the video, it’s going to have it. I do run an ambient probe in my pellet grill when using one of these to make sure my grill reading is accurate during the cook. - Sam
Do you know if either of these two have the ability to recognize an open dome/grill to shut off fan? I do a lot of my cooking on a Kamado style grill. Thanks in advance for any feedback. Appreciate the video.
Thanks for watching. The fan only runs based on your set point so once the ambient probe detects your set point, it shuts off. There’s no way for it to truly know when a lid is open. When you open the lid/dome/door the fan will typically kick on when the unit recognizes the ambient temp has dropped. You can choke/close off the fan on the fan itself with both models to stop air from feeding in. Does that help answer your question? - Sam
Interesting. I was just listening to another review and found there is a setting that you can put in that says basically don’t have the fan come on for x amount of minutes. Thinking through your reply helps me thinking through that feature is beneficial on an open dome/grill situation but would impact normal control feature. Thanks again.
@@peterwelle2849 the Fireboard unit is setup to turn the fan off when there’s a sudden drop in temp like what happens when the lid opens. But the lid doesn’t always have to be open to trigger it so I don’t particularly consider it just an open lid feature. You can set the fan through the drive program to not turn on. As far as setting for x amount of minutes, I’d just need to read back features. They unveil new tweaks periodically so sometimes I have homework to catch up on. I don’t personally set the directions for the Drive program and opt to go in and manually set my changes so I don’t use that area as much.
Fireboard is 799 F. Thermoworks is 500 F. While that is a difference, you’d be hard pressed to find a large majority of people that use a fan above 450 F anyway. Both fans have more than enough range. Though I’ll add I’ve never tested the Fireboard fan that high. It allows me to set that high in the app and the fan runs but never waited to see if it actually runs up to that high of a temp. No reason to believe it wouldn’t but just can’t confirm from my use. - Sam
Which controller controls better when using the blowers? Also....Is the Thermoworks version proporitonal like the Fireboard? I.E. does it vary the blower speed or just pulse it on and off?
@@justgrillin Thank you Sam for your response, I prefer to actually use variable fan speed over on/off control so that points me to the Fireboard. Luckily I have a local bbq shop that carrys them as an official dealer....I think I will stop in and see what they have. I have heard people using the pit viper fan with the fireboard get great results with WSM, WSC, and regular Weber kettles....so I think that's the route I will go.
You can find the Fireboard in a variety of places like our website. The Thermoworks Signals Fan is only direct through the manufacturer website or in store with their retailers like us. I’m not 100% familiar with Lang Smoker specs so not sure. There are a decent amount of adapters to help these fans work with a large variety of grills but I can’t tell for sure by the few pics I see online for Lang Backyard Smokers. Probably a question best for Lang or either manufacturer as they have probably encountered same question and can advise on what’s needed if it does work. - Sam
You cannot. The Fireboard has a plug port on it that would allow the Billows fan to "plug in" but that port is designed for charging so nothing would happen with the fan. Just wanted to clarify that incase someone tells you otherwise based on there being a similar plug in port. Thermoworks is the only brand I know of with an external fan that isn't universal like many other brands fans. - Sam
@@m9hrdad no clue. I’m sure eventually there will be one but I would doubt it’s this year or next. Neither brand tells us until maybe a few days before launching new stuff in the past. Based on the new products these brands have released/revamped, I don’t think their main focus is reinventing these. Plus, both devices update via firmware so most new features are always accessible with current/past devices since you’re primarily using the app versus the actual controller unit. - Sam
Both. An instant read and a digital thermometer like these are good for different things and sometimes I use both during the same cook. If only one thermometer is in the budget, I would get something like in this video because you’re covered for whatever you want to do. - Sam
Fans are not designed for pizza ovens like the one you mentioned. The ambient probe from the Fireboard 2 Pro can be used to get an idea of the dome temp. But for that you’d probably rather just get an IR Gun like this: justgrillinflorida.com/product/thermoworks-industrial-infrared-gun/ - Sam
There's different variables that can affect it. It's not designed to just sit out in a full on rainstorm. But a light and quick shower shouldn't destroy the unit. Were the probe holes face up so water could go straight in? - Sam
I can't believe no one talks about wet. Bbq and smoke are both dry cooking methods but braises and sous vide are just as valid but wet. As far as I can tell none of the fire board probes can survive moisture. Most of the Thermoworks ones can just be dipped a bit and cannot be used for a braise except for the one probe they have. Do ppl just not like sous vide or something?
We're an outdoor living store with an emphasis on grilling and BBQ. Most of our videos are from that perspective. It's a fair and valid point though. I do plan to make an updated video of this in the next year so that will probably be a quick tidbit I add. Regular Fireboard and Thermoworks probes can handle water but not for long periods of time, especially if submerged. Mainly just for washing or contact with sauces and such. Fireboard and Thermoworks both sell a separate probe that is supposedly designed/rated for sous vide applications specifically. I don't cook that way so I've never tested those specific probes personally. - Sam
Yes. Both units will send you notifications. The loudness of it will really depend on your phone and the tone you pick. If you're a deep sleeper and phone calls don't wake you up, probably not? - Sam
I just dumped my Fireboard, the probes suck. I have replaced all 4 probes 2 times with my FireBoard and it quits all the time, no power, no display. Thermoworks is by far superior to Fireboard
Sorry to hear. Both brands are great products and are very reliable. I hear more complaints about the Signals compared to the Fireboard. Probes in general usually don’t last more than a couple of years at best, regardless of brand. It’s a tech product so I’m sure there are units that might not perform as well for whatever reason but I’m sure Fireboard would help figure it out. They have good support. The Fireboard is app based so even if the screen is out you do everything through the app. If you leave it out in the sun on a hot day it can overheat the unit and then it needs to cool down for display to work. - Sam
Yeah but you aren’t buying apples to apples. Both are great units and at their core are meant to do the same thing. However the features and capabilities are not the same. I wouldn’t recommend shopping these solely based on one unit being on sale versus the other. Both are going to last a long time so I would tell someone to go with the unit that has the features they value most. - Sam
@@justgrillinok. For me i just want to monitor temps from anywhere, control a fan and use an app. The signals unit i have has works great for me. I need a second unit because i have purchased multiple grills that i run simultaneously sometimes. I may need to re watch your video and see what additional features i can use that the fireboard offers that the signals does not. Great video and lots of good info!!!! I love your channel!!! 😊
@@spkendrick well if you already own a Signals and like it, that might make sense. The Fireboard 2 and 2 Drive have 6 probe ports so depending how much you need, you could possibly just need to run one unit if your cookers are close enough. Thanks. There’s been a few new features from Fireboard and Thermoworks since the video so good to read their sites too. - Sam
Why do you say that? I’ve used it plenty of times and haven’t had an issue with it not doing what it needs to do. It’s not as feature-laden as the Fireboard but does offer some differences that matter to consumers. - Sam
@@justgrillin it's simple. Target temp set to 225. It runs till it feels like stopping which is always 250 or higher, shuts off till it drops below 200! They told me that's the built in lid open software doing what it should? HUH?? @ 226 fan should shut off. @ 224 fan should come on. PERIOD. Want to buy another one? I got a great deal on a complete unit for someone!
i worked with phones my whole working live. so i HATE smart phones . to me a phone only a phone.i have fist stage a oldtimers memory lose .like joe biden i have a computer next to me and phone. when i retired had a flip phone and a pager. yes i am stubborn . i did not mention i repaired crank phones, yes i am an old time phone man.
Who? When they are cooking decide to visit the neighbor? who cares about wifi strength, I am a cook who does not take trips while cooking! I wanted to know about the actual thermometer accuracy for ambient temps and meat temps in my pit, damn millennials lol worried about the App! Pathetic
One of the best comparisons of these 2 brands I've seen. A couple of things about the Fireboard (I've had Version 1 for 4 years) that I've found very useful:
1) You can control the fan speed directly by setting it to Manual and then entering a value between 1 and 100 which is the percentage of full speed desired. This is instead of controlling the fan by temperature so you can leave the probe out and bring the temps above 500 with ease or use it to keep a breeze on a cold-smoke session. You can also set the maximum percent of fan speed ( when controlling the cook by temperature) in case the fan is too powerful for your cooker.
2) You can insert notes and photos on the graph timeline both during and after the cook. This is incredibly valuable for documenting your progress and how the food looks along the way. There seems to be no limit to the amount of info you can store about each cook. In addition, you can edit all stored cooks at anytime.
3) Each cook can be named, just as with the channels. All your cooks are stored in the cloud automatically and can be searched from the app. This makes the Fireboard into a self-writing cookbook!
4) You can control the Fireboard from a desktop browser in addition to a smartphone.
5) You can share a link to a live, read-only view of the cook (even older ones) so anyone you wish can watch it in real time.
6) I don't know about the Bellows but the Fireboard ramps the fan SPEED up and down as it manages the cook. The result for me is usually temperatures that vary LESS THAN 1 DEGREE as long as you keep the cooker closed. I use mine on both a Kamado Joe Big Joe and an Oklahoma Joe Bronco with similar results. Most fan/controllers seem to use an on/off method which is implicitly less invariable.
7) There is a "lid detect" setting that will shut the an off for a set time (default=5 minutes) after you open the lid. This is really helpful with kamado cookers which will heat up fast each time you open the lid during a cook. Don't know is Bellows has this.
Thanks for watching. Appreciate you sharing some of your favorite things about the Fireboard.
- Sam
Great video. I had both a Signals and a FireBoard 2 Drive. I recently packed up the Signals with the Billows and sold them. As good as ThermoWorks products are (great company and I own a few of their products) I think FireBoard beats out the Signals for me at least. I find the FB App much better as well as the battery life. The display on the Signals is too busy for me and not having to connect a separate device to power the blower is also a plus with the FB. Yeah I wish the FB had magnets built in and a few other features on board via the buttons as the Signals does. Both great units but I had both and personally prefer the FireBoard.
Thank you. Appreciate the kind words. Very good information that you shared. As I said, and you pointed out as well, both are great units. Really just going to be what the user prefers more. Since both units can update via firmware, I had to stick with mainstay features to focus on so the information stays relevant for a while. Fireboard has added a few features since doing this video too like the estimated finished cooking time.
- Sam
Really good comparison without being overly wordy or repetitive or omitting important detail. Thank you.
Thank you for watching. Yes, I try to be right to the point. I'm not big on adding in fluff for the sake of it.
- Sam
I just picked up the Signals. It was on sale for $71.70 off, making it $167.30. At first the battery life was a concern, but then I realized, I'll probably never be smoking anything for longer than 10 hours. And if I do in the future, I have a ton of battery packs that I could plug in while it's cooking.
While the $167.30 is still more than I wanted to spend right now, I already have a Thermopen thermometer that has worked flawlessly for about 3 years now. And decided to give their Signals a chance.
I'll probably never use any fan system when I smoke so that's not a big deal for me either.
I do love that I don't need a separate transmitter like others and can use my phone.
Excellent review and comparison. Very helpful in getting an understanding of the products and their capabilities.
Thank you. I know it can be a tough choice to figure out what's right in this space.
- Sam
Thank you for talking about the apps! This is exactly the info I was looking for that no other reviewers touched base on. I know the signals is on sale today, but I think im leaning towards the Fireboard due to battery life, and the app looks better imo.
I think another thing important to mention is that the Signals warranty is 2 years, and Fireboard is 1 year. I think Fireboard should bump it up to 2 to compete.
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching. Glad this could help.
In videos like this, I used to touch on price and warranty but since that info can change, I just leave it out so the info in the video stays current longer. Both units are great so unless really tough on the unit, I don’t see the warranty coming into play.
This is the type of purchase that it’s better to pay for what you like better. You’re going to use this when you cook and the last thing you want is to not be happy with a tool you use frequently.
- Sam
Only 75 likes, unbelievable.
This video should be the on your watchlist when shopping for pit controllers.
Thank you. Truly appreciate that. Our channel is pretty young so slowly building a following. Thanks for watching.
- Sam
This is the overview/comparo I've been looking for. Thanks so very much.
That’s the goal. Glad it helped. Thanks for watching and the compliment.
- Sam
This is one of the best instructional videos I've ever found for things I'm interested in. I did a random Google search for Fire Board vs Thermoworks. Very grateful to find this video. Right to the point, objective and very clear! Thank you!
Excellent breakdown of the Features of these 2 units. Helps to make a decision between them.
Your final "Paraphrase" sealed the deal for me.
Very much appreciate the time and effort put into this particular content.
I've been split between the 2 but not anymore.
Then - you guys are from Tampa. I grew up there.
I will have to research how the fans attach to the Vision Grill Pro S model but I'm sure somewhere there is content for that.
Thanks again
You're welcome. Glad you enjoyed the video and it helped.
- Sam
Good job. Covered all of the questions I could possibly have. I'm getting the Firebird 2 Pro with fan. My SnS grill already has a fan port on it.
The FireBoard allows the east use of fans from other companies & is a variable speed fan which I like.
And, I like the ability to source fans from Pit Boss & others
An outstanding review, helped me steer towards the FireBoard 2 for my needs.
Thank you. Glad it helped you out.
- Sam
Great informative video. I just ordered the fireboard 2 bundle. Should be here in 2 days. Im super excited to test it out on an overnight brisket cook. I was torn between, Fireboard, Thermoworks, and Flame boss. All the app features, plus waterproof, and battery life of the fireboard helped swing my decision.
Great, informative video. Appreciate the detailed walk through of each. Super helpful!
You’re welcome! Thanks for watching.
- Sam
Fantastic video! Thanks for the time and effort! I’ll be ordering a Fireboard .
Sounds good. Appreciate the kind words. Glad the video helped.
- Sam
Love my FireBoard 2 Drive that I use with my Weber Summit Charcoal/now Kamado.
One thing to keep in mind, is if you are doing a long cook, and your fan comes on often, battery life is significantly reduced. Sometimes I have to plug in my unit after ten hours.
Also, FireBoard had an update I actually looked at the other night, and it changes as does conditions do, that pretty much can tell you when your cook is going to be completed, which is a predictive analyze section.
Thanks for sharing! The battery should last much longer than what you’re experiencing with the fan. Usually the only times I’ve run into needing to plug it in is around the 21-24 hour mark.
The Analyze feature came out after making this video. I allude to Fireboard always coming out with newer updates and features more frequently. I need to make a new video on this topic again.
Thanks for watching.
- Sam
Fantastic video! You did a great job of highlighting the things important to a stick burner pitmaster. I still can't decide, but at least I know what my information is. :)
Thank you. Either way, you really can't go wrong. Reliability and accuracy is most important which both of these brands prioritize. It's kind of like choosing a Mercedes or Porsche. Both make great great cars but each one has their own features you might prefer a little more than the other.
- Sam
Oh man you guys are in Tampa that’s close to me , awesome! Leaning towards the fire board over the thermoworks
We’ve got both. Welcome to stop in and we’d be glad to explain more. Personally I like the Fireboard 2 Pro for the heat range the probes can withstand. Both units are great. Just varies based on what the cook at home values most in a unit.
- Sam
This video caused me to make an info based decision great job.
Nothing wrong with using some logic once in a while on a purchase. Glad it helped.
- Sam
Great Job, super detailed review!! I already have the FB pro your explanation was spot on!!
Thank you! Both great options. Fireboard 2 Pro is really nice. Still have my original Fireboard and feel bad because it works perfectly fine but don’t use it anymore since I have the pro.
- Sam
Excellent review, thank you! Regarding the Thermoworks Signals, if the battery is not charged or if it runs out, will the unit operate by plugging the charger in? Also, if the battery ever wears out, is it replaceable?
The units will run if plugged into the charger. As for changing the battery, it’s not like Duracells that you easily changeout. You shouldn’t have to worry about that stuff for a long long time. If that ever becomes the case, I don’t know what the cost is to replace so I can’t say if it’s better to do that or just buy a new unit? I understand why you’re asking but I wouldn’t be concerned. It’s not something we have clients calling or asking about to replace ever.
- Sam
Was trying to decide if I wanted to replace my Fireboard with a Thermoworks, get a new Fireboard or keep the old one. Battery life eliminates Thermoworks for me. Too many pork butts and briskets. Also, I’d say Fireboard is not completely waterproof. Mine got wet and now on/off button doesn’t work. After using I just gotta let it die then recharge before using again. Thanks. Great review and comparison.
You're welcome. Thanks for the positive feedback.
If you're replacing a Fireboard 1 (The Original) those units didn't come as weatherproof. You had to purchase an additional case to protect it better. With the Fireboard 2 units, they come with a protective housing. The housings are weather-resistant so just like I mention, don't sweat a little water but don't just leave it uncovered in a downpour for instance.
- Sam
Great overview!
Thank you!
- Sam
Really professional review. Good job.
Thank you!
- Sam
Thanks, I needed this info, I just purchased the Signal today. I'm just a Backyard smoker, nothing fancy, all I need to do is measure my Ambient temp and meat temp
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching. Glad we could help.
- Sam
@@justgrillin I've purchased and returned a few Bluetooth thermometers and this may be the only one that will hold a signal without dropping the signal when I come in the house I I hope.
@@eztongueh2890 Bluetooth is just such a limited range which can be finicky with some units too based on the connection strength. Connecting these units, if an option, to WiFi is the way to go. That’s going to give you the range and freedom to monitor wherever.
@@justgrillin yes, the one that I have coming have wifi capabilities, but from my understanding it has to be connected to Bluetooth to first then set to wifi, Bluetooth only kick in if wifi drops, thats my understanding.
Thanks, I'm done bothering you lol
@EzTongue H all good. You're right. It will look for WiFi first, then default to Bluetooth if no WiFi is available and then just function as a standalone if neither WiFi or Bluetooth work/out of range.
I was just noting how Bluetooth is such a short range on most units. By option, I just meant having WiFi where you're using the thermometer, not speaking about the actual unit.
I use a Meater+ from time to time and where my Bluetooth range cuts off in my house is right before where my couch is so I know the pain of having the Bluetooth range cut short.
- Sam
Great review! I love the Fireboard but the only thing that I don’t like is the fact that the fan does not let you bring the pit from cool to hot. Hopefully they release another fan that can do this regardless if they need a separate power adapter…
Cheers from Costa Rica.
You can use the 12v output with a relay and run any fan you want. That's what I did with my BBQ Guru.
Im confused what do you mean it doesn't let you go from cool to hot? I thought it would pull air in until pit is at desired hot temp?
Great video! A big thanks from the UK.
Really well done Sam you’ve got a new subscriber. Exactly the info I needed.
Fantastic video brother!! Thanks so much
Thanks for watching. Appreciate the kind words.
- Sam
Great comparison video. Is it possible to view the data for either online on a computer, as in browsing to their website and logging in? Apps are great for setup and during the cook, but not so great after the fact when comparing from cook to cook.
Yes. When you register the units, you create an account that lets you login to the cloud based app on the web. You're the second or third person of recent to bring this up. I made this video a few years ago so there have been some firmware updates to each unit. I didn't think at the time this was too important to mention as we don't really get asked this by our client's much. When I do an updated version later this year, I will most likely include that tidbit this time around.
- Sam
Great review..tnx for doing that! 🎉🎉
Awesome video! You covered the max probe temperatures but how hot can the probe cables go? Also, are the probe cables weatherproof like the units? In my experience with some other brand probes, they end up getting damaged when getting wet. Thanks!
Thank you. Appreciate the kind words. The corresponding cables will be rated to withstand the same temperatures as the probes. Please keep in mind that the regular Fireboard 2 and Drive models have a lower temperature rating than the PRO model I used in this video.
I wash the probes in the sink and they're fine. I've left one of the Fireboard Pro cables out in the rain and it was fine. I'm not saying that it's good to do that so maybe it was luck? Repeatedly getting them soaked will probably lead to problems. But they are designed to handle some moisture.
- Sam
@@justgrillin Thanks!
Very much appreciate the details about the 2 thermometers/controllers. I've found on UA-cam that the meat probe included with the Fireboard 2 is thicker than the pro probes that they sell separately for $65. The included probes with the Thermoworks look thinner. Is this true? When you're probing a rib, it's better to have the thin probes. If this is the case, it would tip the scale toward the Thermoworks for me.
Unless something has changed that I don't know about, the basic probes that come with the Thermoworks Signals and Fireboard 2 and Drive model are pretty similar in thickness. If you're worried about the thickness, just buy one or two competition probes at the same time when buying or afterward getting your hands on the basic probes and determining yourself. The comp probes are $18 a piece from Fireboard. You don't have to buy an entire pack.
The Fireboard 2 PRO comes with a much thinner probe but it's a different style. There's only three probe ports on that model but those probes can go up to 1100 degrees. They say 1200 but 1100 should really be the max. This is the model I use at home primarily.
Let me know if you have other questions. Thank you for watching and the kind feedback.
- Sam
Kamado smokers retain their temperature extremely well, so they don't need a lot of fan strength. Some of the fans designed for Kamado smokers are only 5 or 6 CFM. With larger and/or leakier smokers like offsets or large barrels, the extra CFM would certainly come in handy. CFM means cubic feet (of air) per minute. For reference, the exhaust fans over your stove are usually 375-625 CFM.
They don't design their fans strictly for kamados hence the CFM strength. Kamado's are just one application for the fans. I show it with a cabinet smoker here. It's a life saver when cooking with it.
- Sam
@@justgrillin The Fire Boss 500 DOES offer a choice between fans for Kamados vs Universal smokers. The Kamado fan is 6.5 CFM, the Universal version fan is 21 CFM. I bought the Fireboard 2 Pro for its high temp capabilities in my pizza oven, grill and kitchen oven (Christmas roast at 550) as well as the smokers.
Well you're factoring in other products separate of the topic in this video. I'm just keeping my answers specific to the brands compared in this video. While a kamado might not need as strong of a fan we're finding that it's more common to see people with multiple grills and smokers so having one fan that has more strength to it is a better bet. Just because the fan has a higher CFM output doesn't mean that it's going to run at the highest setting the entire time it's in use either. The digital controllers are smart enough to ease back on speed/power based on calculations of the rate of increase in temperature of the pit to get to the set pit temp.
- Sam
Really great video!!! I'm waffling between these two units for my Char-griller 980. I'm concerned the 20cfm fan isn't enough. Any particular thoughts? Seems like it's coming down to very small differences. Thanks again!
Thank you! I wouldn’t get caught up in the CFM’s of the fan. Yes, they are different and I point that out. But in terms of strength for a kamado, both are sufficient. I use the Fireboard fan all the time and it works great. Once you’re at your temp, the fans really don’t run very much or with much power when they kick in to maintain temps.
- Sam
Great video and thanks. I have an old country bbq pitts gravity smoker similar to the one you have in the video. I’m also considering these two controllers. I’m wondering if I need the extra flow from the billows fan or if the 20 CFM from the fire board is enough to bring the smoker up to temp in a reasonable period of time. Any thoughts?
I don’t think you do. Unless every single minute matters to you there’s not going to be a massive time difference. As long as you have a fan with a unit like this you’ll be happy.
- Sam
Just a heads up the Fireboard is not is not designed to bring smokers up to temp. it's designed to only maintain the temp. I wish a software update could be made to fix this. Big let down...... @@justgrillin
@@nbono04 ?? As long as your charcoal is lit, the Fireboard will absolutely help get your smoker up to temperature and then maintain it. It doesn’t light the fire for you but it will do everything else. I use it that way all the time on our Kamado Joe’s and cabinet smokers.
- Sam
Thanks for the great review. I read that the Signals fan is not variable speed. Is that a disadvantage? Is the Fireboard fan variable?
You’re welcome. Thanks for watching.
The Fireboard fan is variable speed.
You’ll get different answers to this depending who you ask I’m sure. From my perspective, I’ve never seen much of a difference when using either fan. Both have done what I need them to but maybe I’m not as demanding. I prefer not needing the extra power cable so I use the Fireboard fan more. They say the Fireboard fan might not run full speed and that the thermometer run time will be reduced because it’s pulling power from the unit. Even if the fan doesn’t run full speed, I haven’t noticed enough to complain. I just use the set point feature when I cook and let the unit/fan figure it out. I just smoked a brisket two weeks back and the unit got about 21-22 hours before flashing battery symbol for me to plug in.
- Sam
plus you can source fans from other manufacturers
One thing you didn't mention, is that the ThermoWorks has a web interface that you can use with your computer. I use this feature a lot. I don't know about the other device. I don't have one.
You are correct. I did not bring this up. The Fireboard unit has a web interface that can be accessed as well. For time purposes, it's tough to get ever nitty gritty detail in here so the purpose is highlighting main touch points and a few key differences. Appreciate you watching you and bring this up. Always good to know what people are looking to learn about the devices and what features matter to them.
- Sam
It's all about the highest temperature for me thanks
Appreciate the feedback. Thanks for watching.
- Sam
Great information, thank you. I have questions regarding the max temp for both units.
On the Thermoworks site, it shows the probe for the signals goes to 572, the cable to 700 and the transition to 644.
You state that the Signals will go to 700, but shouldn’t that be 644, the max for the transition? I understand the probe tip at 572 shouldn’t matter as it will be buried in meat. But, to my view, there will be the rest of the probe, the transition and the cable exposed to the grill, so shouldn’t the low of these three things be the max to expose it to.?
As well on the Fireboard it shows the probe going to 1202 but the cable only going to 842 (they do not show a transition temp. Same question, shouldn’t the lower of the two, the cable at 842, be the max to expose it to.
My reason for asking is that I am looking for something I can leave in for the whole cook, either indirect and for a sear or reverse sear, or is this even possible?
I believe flare ups can be over 1200 degrees and if this type of thermometer can only be used on the indirect side, that’s fine. But if the Fireboard XSi something that can be used at the higher temps for a direct cook, I would go that was and would be worth the extra money.
Thank you for your advice!
For the probe itself, it just won’t read beyond the listed temp range. The Fireboard 2 Pro thermocouple probes you can leave in throughout intense heat cooks. They designed it for use in pizza ovens and such. The heat rating is more like 1100 F on those probes from what they told me when I asked before making the video.
Probes that get used a decent amount typically get replaced about every two years. The heat factor is just a personal experience. It really varies how long it will hold up. Based on the rating, if you’re always pushing the extreme it will eventually wear itself down faster than a higher rated probe. But usually it takes multiple times to do so. It’s just hard to quantify in specificity.
Does that answer your questions?
- Sam
What is the most important for me is the temp accuracy of the units.
Are you asking me or telling me?
- Sam
Hi Sam, do you know if the fire board 2s come with the correct adapters to connect to a 2024 Weber kamado summit? Think the hole is 1-1/4”
It doesn't. Neither does the Signals. You would need to purchase a separate adapter to make the fan connection.
- Sam
@@justgrillin darn good thing I didn’t hit check out yet! Thanks!
Thanks for such a detailed review. I do have a question. Does the Signals unit also have a Hold temp setting for after the target food temp is reached, like the one you showed on the Fireboard?
Both units are going to do whatever you set them to do. You would just simply change your pit temp when running fan control if you wanted to drop it down once your food internal is reached. Nothing changes from what you set these units to monitor/do until you adjust them yourself including once a cook is technically finished. Sometimes I’ve dropped a smoker down to 160 once a brisket hit 205 to actively rest it.
- Sam
Are either waterproof for rain?
@@turkeyphant not fully. They are just water resistant for a small period of time. So like the example in the video shows that it’s not going to crap out immediately if a storm catches you off guard but if you leave it out in a long rainstorm, that’s where you can have issues.
Great video but I have a couple questions -
I understand the Fire Board pro has three channels, one for Ambient temp and 2 for meat Can you use 3 meat probes to Cook three steaks if you don’t want to use the ambient probe?
Does the fire Board pro unit have a speaker that sounds an alarm on the unit in case your phone is inside and you are out by the grill?
1.) Yes. You are not locked in to a specific probe on the Fireboard. You could run three ambient probes if you wanted and same for food probes.
2.) No. All of the alerts are via the App, Text and Email with the Fireboard regardless of which Fireboard unit it is.
- Sam
Where can i get the type k thermocouple I didnt see the probes on their website
Great video
Thank you! Thanks for watching.
- Sam
Very well presented. Have you been having any issues with the stock thermocouple probes of the Fireboard?
Thank you. Appreciate the kind words.
Issues in what way? After two years, I have replaced the food probes. I broke two of them pushing through double wrapped butcher paper. Replacing probes after some time is pretty typical though.
- Sam
@@justgrillin Interesting. From early on, they would act up on me. When they sent one of the replacements,
it went bad after couple uses as well. I don't abuse them, but it turns out the the insulation inside the cable shield around an inch or so from the connector would separate and create intermittent short circuit, resulting in unstable temperature readings. I have redone the ends by cutting them and using shrink tubing, but
I also purchased some pricey American made probes, but they are just 3 ft long. If you are not having unstable readings, specially on your newer replacements, then perhaps they may have been improved.
Other than that, it is a great unit.
@@CoolJay77 I think it can just be a crap shoot with probes sometimes. They are fairly fragile (especially the thin thermocouples) so might just be rough luck? Fireboard has good support so I’m sure they take care of certain issues.
@@justgrillin At first they made me wait for months, asking me to wait for firmware updates. Then I had to find the cure on my own. I'll see how the Cooper Atkins probes will fare. But three of those would come close in pricing of the whole Fireboard Pro unit. I understand why they could not have used those. Just perhaps I had bad luck, since yours fared better. Thanks for sharing your experience.
@@CoolJay77 not sure. I only use my unit two to four times a month so that helps with the longevity too. I have too many gadgets that I’m always cycling through and I only do a handful of long smokes where I need it. All my high heat stuff I just poke with the instant read. At least the unit works fine which is most important. It is a great unit. Thanks for sharing your experience. Good or bad, it’s insightful to know other experiences with these products.
Ones an actual thermometer and works for years, the other is an app company making parts that last a week. Go to kitchens and see what’s used
@@Gapines23 Don’t understand your last sentence. Both companies make great products. Everything I have from both companies is 3+ years old and all work just fine. I’ve replaced probes from both but that’s normal and happens with any brand of thermometer.
What a the thermo works pro probe temp rating?
Can you use the thermoworks in the fireboard etc
No, the probes aren’t interchangeable between the brands. 700 degrees max on the Thermoworks Pro Probes.
- Sam
Question... I will use one of these for smoking meats on a pellet grill. My grill holds ambient temps pretty consistently. Is there any reason I'd want a fan version of these?
Great question. No, you would not need a fan. Unless you have plans to add a charcoal grill to your mix in the future there wouldn’t be a need for it.
Thermoworks just makes the one Signals unit so you’d always have the capability, you just wouldn’t buy the fan.
Fireboard has the base model without the fan tech built in. If you opted for the Pro model, like I used in the video, it’s going to have it.
I do run an ambient probe in my pellet grill when using one of these to make sure my grill reading is accurate during the cook.
- Sam
Thank you!@@justgrillin
Nice Review
Do you know if either of these two have the ability to recognize an open dome/grill to shut off fan? I do a lot of my cooking on a Kamado style grill. Thanks in advance for any feedback. Appreciate the video.
Thanks for watching.
The fan only runs based on your set point so once the ambient probe detects your set point, it shuts off. There’s no way for it to truly know when a lid is open. When you open the lid/dome/door the fan will typically kick on when the unit recognizes the ambient temp has dropped. You can choke/close off the fan on the fan itself with both models to stop air from feeding in. Does that help answer your question?
- Sam
Interesting. I was just listening to another review and found there is a setting that you can put in that says basically don’t have the fan come on for x amount of minutes. Thinking through your reply helps me thinking through that feature is beneficial on an open dome/grill situation but would impact normal control feature. Thanks again.
@@peterwelle2849 the Fireboard unit is setup to turn the fan off when there’s a sudden drop in temp like what happens when the lid opens. But the lid doesn’t always have to be open to trigger it so I don’t particularly consider it just an open lid feature. You can set the fan through the drive program to not turn on. As far as setting for x amount of minutes, I’d just need to read back features. They unveil new tweaks periodically so sometimes I have homework to catch up on. I don’t personally set the directions for the Drive program and opt to go in and manually set my changes so I don’t use that area as much.
What's the highest temperature set point for the control fan on both of them?
Fireboard is 799 F. Thermoworks is 500 F. While that is a difference, you’d be hard pressed to find a large majority of people that use a fan above 450 F anyway. Both fans have more than enough range.
Though I’ll add I’ve never tested the Fireboard fan that high. It allows me to set that high in the app and the fan runs but never waited to see if it actually runs up to that high of a temp. No reason to believe it wouldn’t but just can’t confirm from my use.
- Sam
Which controller controls better when using the blowers? Also....Is the Thermoworks version proporitonal like the Fireboard? I.E. does it vary the blower speed or just pulse it on and off?
You get a little more control with the Fireboard unit and fan over the Thermoworks setup. The Billows fan pulses on and off as needed.
- Sam
@@justgrillin Thank you Sam for your response, I prefer to actually use variable fan speed over on/off control so that points me to the Fireboard. Luckily I have a local bbq shop that carrys them as an official dealer....I think I will stop in and see what they have. I have heard people using the pit viper fan with the fireboard get great results with WSM, WSC, and regular Weber kettles....so I think that's the route I will go.
Are thermistor and type k thermocouples interchangeable? Or, can I buy a Fireboard 2 Drive and put some Type K thermocouples on it?
You cannot interchange them. The probe connection points are different.
- Sam
Where can I buy the fan? An also would the fan work on a lang smoker
You can find the Fireboard in a variety of places like our website. The Thermoworks Signals Fan is only direct through the manufacturer website or in store with their retailers like us.
I’m not 100% familiar with Lang Smoker specs so not sure. There are a decent amount of adapters to help these fans work with a large variety of grills but I can’t tell for sure by the few pics I see online for Lang Backyard Smokers. Probably a question best for Lang or either manufacturer as they have probably encountered same question and can advise on what’s needed if it does work.
- Sam
Can you use the Fireboard 2 drive with the Billows fan?
You cannot. The Fireboard has a plug port on it that would allow the Billows fan to "plug in" but that port is designed for charging so nothing would happen with the fan.
Just wanted to clarify that incase someone tells you otherwise based on there being a similar plug in port.
Thermoworks is the only brand I know of with an external fan that isn't universal like many other brands fans.
- Sam
Thank you for responding. I've been doing a bit of research on the two, and your video has been one of the best resources out there!
@@m9hrdad you’re welcome. I need to make an updated one sometime later this year.
- Sam
@@justgrillin Any idea if they'll be coming out with a version 3 at some point?
@@m9hrdad no clue. I’m sure eventually there will be one but I would doubt it’s this year or next. Neither brand tells us until maybe a few days before launching new stuff in the past. Based on the new products these brands have released/revamped, I don’t think their main focus is reinventing these. Plus, both devices update via firmware so most new features are always accessible with current/past devices since you’re primarily using the app versus the actual controller unit.
- Sam
Do you think I should get a Thermapen or a thermometer like the type in this video?
Both. An instant read and a digital thermometer like these are good for different things and sometimes I use both during the same cook.
If only one thermometer is in the budget, I would get something like in this video because you’re covered for whatever you want to do.
- Sam
Can fans be used on pizza ovens like the gozney dome
Fans are not designed for pizza ovens like the one you mentioned. The ambient probe from the Fireboard 2 Pro can be used to get an idea of the dome temp. But for that you’d probably rather just get an IR Gun like this: justgrillinflorida.com/product/thermoworks-industrial-infrared-gun/
- Sam
Are you sure they are as waterproof as you show. My FB pro has just failed after getting a shower.
There's different variables that can affect it. It's not designed to just sit out in a full on rainstorm. But a light and quick shower shouldn't destroy the unit. Were the probe holes face up so water could go straight in?
- Sam
No they were face down
I can't believe no one talks about wet. Bbq and smoke are both dry cooking methods but braises and sous vide are just as valid but wet. As far as I can tell none of the fire board probes can survive moisture. Most of the Thermoworks ones can just be dipped a bit and cannot be used for a braise except for the one probe they have. Do ppl just not like sous vide or something?
We're an outdoor living store with an emphasis on grilling and BBQ. Most of our videos are from that perspective. It's a fair and valid point though. I do plan to make an updated video of this in the next year so that will probably be a quick tidbit I add.
Regular Fireboard and Thermoworks probes can handle water but not for long periods of time, especially if submerged. Mainly just for washing or contact with sauces and such.
Fireboard and Thermoworks both sell a separate probe that is supposedly designed/rated for sous vide applications specifically. I don't cook that way so I've never tested those specific probes personally.
- Sam
Does either one have push notifications thats loud enough to wake you up from sleeping?
Yes. Both units will send you notifications. The loudness of it will really depend on your phone and the tone you pick. If you're a deep sleeper and phone calls don't wake you up, probably not?
- Sam
The alarms are pretty loud for the termoworks
I just dumped my Fireboard, the probes suck. I have replaced all 4 probes 2 times with my FireBoard and it quits all the time, no power, no display. Thermoworks is by far superior to Fireboard
Sorry to hear. Both brands are great products and are very reliable. I hear more complaints about the Signals compared to the Fireboard.
Probes in general usually don’t last more than a couple of years at best, regardless of brand. It’s a tech product so I’m sure there are units that might not perform as well for whatever reason but I’m sure Fireboard would help figure it out. They have good support.
The Fireboard is app based so even if the screen is out you do everything through the app. If you leave it out in the sun on a hot day it can overheat the unit and then it needs to cool down for display to work.
- Sam
thermoworks always has sales..... this unit can be had for $169 fireboard not so much. it's 249.99 -365 days . they may throw in a hat at fireboard
Yeah but you aren’t buying apples to apples. Both are great units and at their core are meant to do the same thing. However the features and capabilities are not the same. I wouldn’t recommend shopping these solely based on one unit being on sale versus the other. Both are going to last a long time so I would tell someone to go with the unit that has the features they value most.
- Sam
@@justgrillinok. For me i just want to monitor temps from anywhere, control a fan and use an app. The signals unit i have has works great for me. I need a second unit because i have purchased multiple grills that i run simultaneously sometimes. I may need to re watch your video and see what additional features i can use that the fireboard offers that the signals does not.
Great video and lots of good info!!!! I love your channel!!! 😊
@@spkendrick well if you already own a Signals and like it, that might make sense. The Fireboard 2 and 2 Drive have 6 probe ports so depending how much you need, you could possibly just need to run one unit if your cookers are close enough.
Thanks. There’s been a few new features from Fireboard and Thermoworks since the video so good to read their sites too.
- Sam
I love my thermoworks therma pens. But their smoker controller sucks. Junk in fact.
Why do you say that? I’ve used it plenty of times and haven’t had an issue with it not doing what it needs to do. It’s not as feature-laden as the Fireboard but does offer some differences that matter to consumers.
- Sam
@@justgrillin it's simple. Target temp set to 225. It runs till it feels like stopping which is always 250 or higher, shuts off till it drops below 200! They told me that's the built in lid open software doing what it should? HUH?? @ 226 fan should shut off. @ 224 fan should come on. PERIOD. Want to buy another one? I got a great deal on a complete unit for someone!
i worked with phones my whole working live. so i HATE smart phones . to me a phone only a phone.i have fist stage a oldtimers memory lose .like joe biden i have a computer next to me and phone. when i retired had a flip phone and a pager. yes i am stubborn . i did not mention i repaired crank phones, yes i am an old time phone man.
Who? When they are cooking decide to visit the neighbor? who cares about wifi strength, I am a cook who does not take trips while cooking! I wanted to know about the actual thermometer accuracy for ambient temps and meat temps in my pit, damn millennials lol worried about the App! Pathetic