Infrared thermometers read surface temps nicely, but you want internal temperature, hence the digital on a stem. If you go digital, do not read the temp with the stick[probe] touching the bottom or the sides of the cooking vessel. Keep the tip of the stick in the middle of the plastic mass. This is especially so if you use a microwave. I got mine for under 20 bucks and it sure has eliminated a mess of wasted plastic.