With a clip on the end, these probes are quick to install and easy to remove. They're often used on vents, circuit boards, and other irregular surfaces. Their tip is exposed, so they respond to rapid changes in air temperature but can’t be used in liquids. The coiled cable stretches when you need extra reach.

Pick the thermocouple type that best covers the temperature range you expect your environment to be. You should also make sure the thermocouple type you choose is compatible with the device you plan to connect it to. These probes are often used with temperature controllers, thermometers, and other temperature-reading devices.

These thermocouples are manufactured to conform to ASTM E230 for accuracy. Accuracy is how far off the reported value is from the actual temperature.