instruments research hygrometer

• Fisher Scientific
• Humidity and Hygrometry
• Hygrometers

Instruments that measure moisture in ambient air; types include indicator papers and dial-styles; electronic versions may be analog or digital; may be traceable to NIST. Because humidity is affected by temperature, most hygrometers include thermometers to correct readings.

Hygrometers, or humidity meters, are devices for measuring the level of water vapor (also known as relative humidity, RH) in the atmosphere or in other gases.

How Are Hygrometers Used? • Monitoring moisture levels in laboratory incubators, growth chambers, greenhouses, and controlled climate cabinets • Measuring humidity in confined spaces, rooms, or buildings where moisture levels are critical to the activity being performed or to the objects or materials being stored • Measuring humidity in domestic or residential settings • Meteorological and climate monitoring

Classical, mechanical hygrometers, which are less widely used today, include wet/dry bulb hygrometers or psychrometers and hair tension hygrometers, which rely upon a single (hygroscopic) hair or fiber.

Most hygrometers available on the market today are electronic digital instruments, which measure humidity using capacitive or resistive sensors. These digital devices offer clear displays with reliable and consistent performance, and are typically compact, hand-held, or benchtop units with a minimal footprint. They may also be available with temperature, timer and alarm functionality, and with externally corded probes and wireless radio-signal connectivity for remote monitoring and data logging. Many operate over a wide temperature range of -5° to +50°C, with a typical measurement range of 0 to 95% relative humidity (RH).

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Humidity Range

Temperature range (metric).

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Relative Humidity/Temperature Meters

Monitor air conditions in environmental chambers, chemical storage areas, cleanrooms, incubators and stockrooms

• Pricing & Availability
• Specifications

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Alarm RH/Temperature Monitor

Monitors round-the-clock for critical experimental requirements.

H-B Instrument™ Durac™ Thermometer-Hygrometers

For measurement of temperature and humidity

Fisherbrand™ TraceableGO™ Bluetooth Datalogging Hygrometer

Fisherbrand TraceableGO™ Bluetooth Datalogging Hygrometer fills in the unknowns between destinations

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Clock/Thermometer/Humidity Meter

Battery-operated, wall-mounted unit has 9.75 in. dial

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Thermometer/Clock/Humidity Monitor

Measures ambient temperature, relative humidity and tells time.

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Thermohygrometer with Clock

Monitor temperature, humidity, and time simultaneously, at a glance.

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Humidity/Temperature Meter/Recorder

Ideal for monitoring conditions in chambers, cleanrooms, food processing facilities, scientific laboratories, and other humidity-sensitive areas

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Precision Monitoring Thermohygrometer

This digital temperature and humidity meter continuously monitors and displays readings graphically and numerically.

Fisherbrand™ GIANT-DIGITS™ Radio Atomic Traceable Clock with Humidity

Allows users to view time, temperature and humidity from anywhere in the lab

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Precision Lollipop™ Water-Resistant Thermometers

This digital and water-resistant thermometer provides results in two seconds

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Printing Hygrometer/Thermometer

Provides permanent hard copy results

H-B Instrument™ Durac™ Electronic Thermometer-Hygrometers

Designed with waterproof temperature probe

Labconco™ Hand-Held Digital Hygrometer Supplier Diversity Partner Small and/or diverse supplier based on Federal laws and SBA requirements. Learn More

Measures both percent relative humidity and temperature in °F or °C. Sensing probe wand allows for more ergonomic probing of hard to reach sampling areas.

Fisherbrand™ Traceable™ Humidity Meter

Retains highest and lowest readings recorded over selected period

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https://www.nist.gov/pml/sensor-science/thermodynamic-metrology/hygrometers

Fundamental Thermodynamics Group

Hygrometers.

The NIST Hybrid Humidity Generator (HHG) provides calibration services for a variety of humidity–measuring instruments. It is operated by the Thermodynamic Metrology Group of the Sensor Science Division, which is part of the Physical Measurement Laboratory. Calibrations are performed by subjecting the instrument under test to air with an accurately known moisture content produced by the generator. The calibration system includes a test chamber (a chamber into which the humid air is directed and where the temperature and pressure are sufficiently constant and uniform), which is used for calibrating relative humidity sensors. The calibrations may be performed using humidity definitions of dew/frost point, relative humidity, water amount fraction (water mole fraction), or water mass ratio. Relative humidity calibrations can be performed on both relative humidity sensors and chilled-mirror hygrometers that have an external temperature probe. Relative humidity sensors are calibrated by placing them in the HHG’s test chamber with humidified air flowing through it. Relative humidity calibrations for chilled-mirror hygrometers are performed by having the hygrometer measure the dew point of the air generated by the HHG while comparing the temperature measured by the hygrometer’s external temperature probe with that of a reference thermometer. The instruments and ranges of calibration include but are not restricted to:

• Chilled-Mirror Hygrometers, calibrated at customer-specified points over the dew/frost range of –90 °C to +85 °C, or alternatively over the relative-humidity range 2 % to 98 % for temperatures between −34 °C and 85 °C.
• Temperature and Relative Humidity Sensors (Thermohygrometers), calibrated over the relative humidity range 2 % to 98 % for temperatures between −34 °C and 85 °C.
• Cavity Ring-Down Hygrometers, calibrated at customer-specified points over an amount fraction range of 1×10 –7 to the upper limit of the hygrometer.

Uncertainties of calibrations with the NIST HHG are provided below:

How to Arrange a Calibration

• Contact the staff member in charge of the calibration service for your artifact with any technical or calibration cost questions.
• Calibrations are performed on a first come first serve basis.
• Ship your artifact with a copy of the purchase order. Use a sturdy box in which we can return the calibrated instrument.
• The purchase order may be sent to contact by e-mail, fax, or mail. Please include the following information:
• service ID for the calibration
• model and serial number of your artifact
• customer contact name, address, phone, and e-mail
• return shipping method (e.g. shipping account number)

For contact information, shipping address, or cost of calibration, see Humidity Measurements .

Publication Resources

• Calibration of Hygrometers with the Hybrid Humidity Generator
• Christopher W. Meyer [email protected] (301) 975-4825

• Conduct , Purchasing Guides

Hygrometer: A Buyer’s Guide

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Hygrometers: Introduction

Hygrometers are precise scientific instruments used to measure humidity, also referred to as psychrometers and humidity sensors. Note that hygrometers measure relative humidity (%), which is the amount of vapor in the air compared to the highest possible amount. Absolute humidity, on the other hand, is the amount of vapor in a certain unit volume of air at a given temperature (e.g., g/m3).

Measuring humidity or water vapor in the air, soil, and confined space is essential. Inappropriate humidity levels in buildings, for example, can lead to poor environmental health and storage conditions. In fact, high humidity levels may lead to home pollutants, mold, and viruses, while low levels may cause skin irritation, electrostatic discharge, and breathing problems. Hygrometers are also used in industrial settings, manufacturing, greenhouses, museums, wine cellars, and cigar warehouses.

Types of Hygrometers

Hygrometers can be employed in a variety of settings, such as education, manufacturing, medical settings, and research. Thus, it’s no surprise that such instruments come in all shapes and sizes. Interestingly, the design of hygrometers has evolved significantly over the years. Note that it was in the 15 th century when Leonardo da Vinci invented the first hygrometer.

While the majority of modern hygrometers use a material that attracts moisture and changes depending on how hydrated it is, there are different types of humidity measuring devices. Weather houses, for example, are old twisted-fiber hygrometers in which two figurines mounted on a turntable take turns coming out of a door, depending on how wet or dry the air is. Other mechanical hygrometers also use fiber material, such as human hair. To measure the amount of moisture, however, more advanced units are needed. The psychrometer, for example, consists of a pair of thermometers (with a wet and a dry bulb, respectively); depending on the evaporation and the temperature difference between the meters, one can measure the relative humidity in the air. Electronic hygrometers, on the other hand, facilitate readings; they can measure either capacitance or resistance and calculate humidity. Note that capacitive units consist of two metal plates and assess the ability of these plates to store a static electric charge, whereas resistive meters measure the electric current flow through ceramic material exposed to the air. There are also dew point hygrometers that are extremely precise; they consist of a metal surface and measure the moisture that condenses on it. Last but not least, there are hygrometer apps for smartphones (with built-in humidity sensors) or standalone sensors (with USB or wireless connectivity).

Buying a Hygrometer: Factors to Consider

As there’s a wide variety of units for sale, choosing a hygrometer can be a daunting task. Prospective buyers should consider three major factors: requirements, specifications, and costs.

Requirements : First of all, users should decide where they’ll be using their hygrometer (home use, industrial settings). While hygrometers for home use do not have to be 100% accurate, buyers should consider if humidity will be measured in multiple rooms simultaneously or hard-to-reach areas (e.g., attic). If one wants to measure humidity outside, a home weather station is recommended instead.

Specifications : When buying a hygrometer, users should understand that accuracy is critical. When it comes to digital units, +/- RH ratings should be considered. Factors such as power source, user interface, data logging, and access to historical data are also important. As mentioned above, if one wants to monitor several places simultaneously, a hygrometer that can connect to different sensors as one system is needed. Last but not least, updates and alerts that allow users to monitor humidity remotely are also beneficial.

Total costs : When it comes to meters, more precise instruments are often more costly. Note that humidity measurers designed for industrial use may need additional NIST Traceable certification.

Best Hygrometers for Sale

Hygrometers are excellent scientific instruments. Given that hygrometers have a wide variety of applications, it’s no surprise there are a plethora of units for sale. Unfortunately, buying a hygrometer can be a challenging task. Based on different parameters and user reviews, here are the best humidity meters for sale. Note that thermo-hygrometers are a popular alternative.

• ThermoPro TP55 Digital Hygrometer – Indoor Thermometer, Humidity Gauge with Jumbo Touchscreen, and Backlight Temperature Humidity Monitor

ThermoPro TP55 Digital Hygrometer – Indoor Thermometer, Humidity Gauge with Jumbo Touchscreen, and Backlight Temperature Humidity Monitor is one of the most precise units on the market. Note that this product has both humidity and temperature sensors. The unit is equipped with professional-grade sensors and has high accuracy (2-3% RH and +/-1°F/°C), with readings that update every ten seconds. This meter also provides humidity trends and records (24 hours/all-time/high and low records) and shows temperature changes in both °F and °C. With its large touchscreen display with a backlight (that turns off after 15 seconds), this unit is an attractive humidity meter.

• AcuRite 01083 Indoor Thermometer & Hygrometer with Humidity Gauge & Pro Accuracy Calibration

AcuRite 01083 Indoor Thermometer & Hygrometer with Humidity Gauge & Pro Accuracy Calibration is another great unit with strong magnetic backing. This meter measures both relative humidity from 1-99% (low/high/okay) and temperature (in °F and °C). It also ensures fast data reporting to create a comfortable living environment and better air quality (with updates every 10 seconds). Moreover, this temperature sensor and humidity gauge have an easy-to-read digital display, which makes it an attractive gift choice for both professionals and beginners.

• AcuRite 01080M Pro Accuracy Temperature and Humidity Gauge with Alarms

AcuRite 01080M Pro Accuracy Temperature and Humidity Gauge with Alarms is a power meter that can measure indoor humidity (1-99%) and temperature (from -4 to 158°F or from -20 to 70°C). Note that it provides an accuracy of +/-0.5°F and +/-2% (with manual calibration options). The unit shows updates and records, including alarm notifications, to indicate when the humidity and temperature levels are outside of one’s ideal range. Note that less than 25% means a dry environment, 25-55% indicates a comfortable environment, and over 55% shows humid settings. Last but not least, this meter is compact and versatile (tabletop, wall-mountable, and magnetic back mount) – simply one of the best hygrometers for sale.

• RockyMars RT36 Temperature and Humidity Meter

RockyMars RT36 Temperature and Humidity Meter is another great unit available on the market. The model is light and compact, which makes it a great portable hygrometer. Note that it uses three AAA batteries. It can also measure temperature from -10°C to 60°C or 14°F to 140°F, with an accuracy of +/-1.0°C or +/-2.0°F. This meter is ideal for facility maintenance, environmental monitoring, HVAC, and health care. Besides, it comes with a manual to ensure accuracy and a positive user experience.

• ThermoPro TP65A – Indoor/Outdoor Thermometer, Digital Wireless Hygrometer, Temperature and Humidity Monitor with Jumbo Backlight Touchscreen and Cold-Resistant Outdoor Thermometers (200ft/60m Range)

ThermoPro TP65A – Indoor/Outdoor Thermometer, Digital Wireless Hygrometer, Temperature, and Humidity Monitor with Jumbo Backlight Touchscreen and Cold-Resistant Outdoor Thermometers (200ft/60m Range) provides users accurate humidity and temperature readings for both indoor and outdoor settings. Note that the unit can be connected to three outdoor remote sensors to assess different locations and has a waterproof outdoor thermometer sensor, which is efficient in rain or snow (as cold as -31°F/-35°C). Additionally, the unit’s indoor/outdoor wireless thermometer has a range of 200ft/60m and is capable of strong signal penetration (433 MHz). With its large display and advanced settings, this meter is ideal for a variety of applications.

• Temp Stick Wireless Remote Temperature & Humidity Sensor

Temp Stick Wireless Remote Temperature & Humidity Sensor is a sophisticated remote temperature and humidity monitor that uses two AA batteries (included). The unit allows users to check humidity (0-100%) and temperature (-40°F-140°F) levels in buildings, fridges, and hard-to-reach areas remotely. The unit supports data logging with unlimited history and sends text and email alerts to indicate an important change in temperature or humidity (note that it can alert multiple users). Moreover, the phone app and computer webpage are easy to use.

• SensorPush Wireless Thermometer/Hygrometer for iPhone/Android – Humidity & Temperature Smart Sensor with Alerts

SensorPush Wireless Thermometer/Hygrometer for iPhone/Android – Humidity & Temperature Smart Sensor with Alerts provides reliable measurements via Swiss-made sensing components. The unit has -40°C-60°C (-40°F-140°F) temperature and 0-100% humidity ranges. Note that this meter is a powerful model (with a range of 325 feet), which makes it ideal for tracking humidity in hard-to-reach areas, such as guitar cases, attics, and basements. Besides, the app is easy to navigate and provides unlimited in-app data storage (compatible with iOS 8+, Android 5.0+, and Bluetooth 4.0+/LE).

• Ambient Weather WS-3000-X5 Wireless Thermo-Hygrometer with Logging, Graphing, Alarming, Radio Controlled Clock with 5 Remote Sensors

Ambient Weather WS-3000-X5 Wireless Thermo-Hygrometer with Logging, Graphing, Alarming, Radio Controlled Clock with 5 Remote Sensors is an advanced thermo-hygrometer with wonderful interface settings. The unit has a TFT color display that allows the graphing and monitoring of various parameters, such as temperature, humidity, dew point, and heat index (note that it allows users to monitor up to eight channels at the same time). The clock included automatically synchronizes the time several times a day and adjusts for daylight savings (it includes 24 time zones throughout the world). The unit also allows users to set high and low alarms (both audible and visual) for any of the measured parameters. Last but not least, this meter includes PC software for advanced data analysis, console programming, and easy data extraction from the optional micro-SD card.

• Extech Digit Thermometer

Extech Digit Thermometer is a great unit that displays relative humidity, temperature, and dew point. Note that this model recalls minimum and maximum readings and provides visual and audible warnings. Additionally, the meter has a remote probe that can extend on an 18-inch cable, which makes it ideal for measurements behind walls and hard-to-reach areas. Additional NIST Traceable certification is available, allowing the monitoring of environmental conditions in laboratories, storage areas, and manufacturing assembly places.

• Cigar Oasis Analog Hygrometer by Western Humidor

Cigar Oasis Analog Hygrometer by Western Humidor is a precise analog hygrometer. Note that the unit’s humidity sensor has an accuracy of +/-1%. Besides, the unit is user recalibrate-able. With a scratch and fog-resistant glass face, an aluminum case, and a secure magnetic mount, this hygrometer is highly valuable, particularly in the cigar industry.

Hygrometers: Maintenance

Hygrometers are invaluable instruments in numerous settings. They are ideal for weather monitoring, home use, automated manufacturing processes, monitoring environments in museums and training centers, plant nurseries, and product research. Note that some popular industrial applications include polyethylene production, liquefaction of natural gas, medical equipment, food packaging, coatings industry, and incubators. Small and portable devices are ideal for field work, while decorative models are perfect for home use.

Portable, freestanding, wall, and magnetic units all need proper calibration, maintenance, and storage conditions to ensure accurate and long use. To provide an example, users should realize that exposure to high relative humidity may create an offset in readings. Calibration and period re-calibration are also essential to guarantee accurate measurements and readings.

Hygrometers: Conclusion

Hygrometers are invaluable scientific instruments used in a variety of applications to measure humidity levels. Measuring humidity levels in the air, soil, and enclosed space is essential to guarantee positive health outcomes and comfort, proper storage conditions, and effective manufacturing processes. Given their diverse applications, it’s no surprise hygrometers designed for home uses are increasing in popularity. Note that some units measure humidity in a single spot, while others come with different sensors to facilitate monitoring in various areas.

Here we should note that although hygrometers come in different shapes and sizes, digital hygrometers and apps are preferred as they provide automatic readings, updates, and alerts to help users track humidity. That being said, prospective buyers should consider three major factors: requirements, specifications, and total costs. Accuracy, data logging, history records, and design are major factors to consider. Units that measure both humidity and temperature are also highly popular.

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Photo: You can measure humidity with your smartphone, but only if it has a built-in moisture detector (or one connected to it). This retro-looking humidity app for Android is a screenshot from "Hygrometer" by Borce Trajkovski.

Artwork: People have been devising ever more ingenious ways of measuring humidity for centuries. This illustration shows a selection of thermometers and hygrometers from 17th-century Florence. Artwork by Lorenzo Magalotti (1637–1712) from his classic Saggi di naturali Esperienze ("Essays on Natural Experiments") courtesy of US Library of Congress .

Photo: A pine cone is a simple hygrometer. It closes up tightly when it's wet (top) and opens when it's dry (bottom). Although you can build a decent little home hygrometer with a pine cone, it will take some time to respond to changes in humidity.

Photo: A weather house like this is based on a twisted-fiber hygrometer (orange) hidden inside.

Artwork: A typical twisted-fiber hygrometer. Before electronic hygrometers became popular in the 20th century, most inexpensive hygrometers worked like this one, patented by Louis Ullman of Nashville, Tennessee in 1859. It has a box (open to the air—so moisture can get in and out) with a piece of twisted plant fiber (orange) inside. The fiber is connected to a pointer (red) that turns around a dial and, as the humidity changes, the fiber either tightens or loosens, moving the pointer up or down the dial. As Ullman explains in his patent, various different plant fibers can be used, including ones from Geranium erodium . Artwork from US Patent #25,457: Hygrometer courtesy of US Patent and Trademark Office.

Artwork: A typical psychrometer (wet-dry bulb thermometer) has two thermometers side by side. One of them (left) is a dry bulb thermometer and simply measures the temperature of the surrounding air, like any conventional thermometer. The other thermometer (right) is the wet bulb: its bulb is immersed in a bottle or reservoir of liquid (green) at the base. You measure the humidity by comparing the readings from the two thermometers. Using the sliding pointer (blue), you can then read the humidity off the rotating chart (yellow) in the center, which is essentially a look-up table that converts temperature differences into humidity measurements. This particular version of the wet-dry bulb hygrometer was invented in the 1930s by John Leonard Schwartz of Philadelphia and the drawing comes from his US Patent #1,933,283: Hygrometer , courtesy of US Patent and Trademark Office.

Photo: This Holmes electronic hygrometer has an easy-to-read dial. There are many other brands available, including Honeywell and GE Panametrics. Photo by courtesy of Ben Winslow, published on Flickr in 2008 under a Creative Commons Licence .

Photo The ceramic sensing membrane from an electronic hygrometer. Photo by courtesy of NASA Langley Research Center (NASA-LaRC) and Internet Archive .

Photo: The main parts of a portable, military weather station. This one can send its readings automatically using a solar-powered transmitter. Photo by Maynelinne De La Cruz courtesy of US Air Force.

Photo: This traditional weather station contains a hygrometer and other weather forecasting equipment. The white louvered box, called a Stevenson screen, protects the instruments from the direct heat of the Sun but allows air to circulate inside, so giving more reliable measurements.

Inventing your own weather station

Artwork: How Diamond and Hinman's automatic weather station worked. Artwork from US Patent 2,287,786: Automatic Weather Station by Harry Diamond and Wilbur Hinman, Jr, assignees to the US government, patented June 30, 1942. Artwork courtesy of US Patent and Trademark Office (with a bit of minor editing and coloring of the original to improve clarity).

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Weather Instruments and Equipment Explained

This article was update on : 2017-02-25

The meteorology is the science that studies the behavior of the phenomena that occur in the atmosphere over time, so that they can foresee its evolution. And all scientific study of the atmosphere means above all collecting accurate weather data. Our senses and especially the sight and touch enable us to estimate a large number of observations. For example, we can see the amount of clouds in the sky or determine wind direction by the movement of leaves or a column of smoke. All these observations are called sensory observations.

However, our senses are not enough and we have to resort to the meteorological instruments to collect the valuable data. For example, while a person can determine if the air pressure is rising or falling, you cannot know the exact value of it, for which you need to consult an instrument. In this case, the observations are called instrumental observations.

Some of the instruments can be incorporated in professional or home weather stations and other are used as separate meteorological devices.

• Learn bout the home weather stations and how to track your local weather data.
• Find out about how to track temperature remotely and over the Internet.
• Indoor / Outdoor thermometer: Cheap solution to track your home temperature and humidity

Bellow you can find a list of some of the most commonly used tools for tracking atmospheric conditions.

Transmissometer

The transmissometer has a light source and a detector at a certain (known) distance. The light emitted form the source is received by the detector and then converted into an electrical voltage proportional to the intensity of the light. The transparency is determined by measuring the proportion of the light that was send form the source and then recorded by the detector.

Sometimes the transmissometers are also called telephotometers, transmittance meters, or hazemeters.

The transmissometers are used on airports and or stations.

Stevenson screen

A Stevenson screen is a box, made of a double layer screens and it is used to shield meteorological instruments when there is precipitation or the instruments are exposed to direct heat radiation from outside sources. This shelter allows free passage of air around the temperature and humidity sensors. Most of the time the Stevenson screens is painted white to reflect the sun’s radiation.

The Stevenson Screen is one of a very few designs that is recommended by the World Meteorological Organization in their aim to provide standardized environment in which to measure weather variables.

Stevenson screens are also known as an instrument shelter, cotton region shelter, a thermometer shelter, a thermoscreen or a thermometer screen.

The screen was invented in 1864 by Thomas Stevenson.

The barometer is a device that measures atmospheric pressure. Changes in atmospheric pressure are most often caused by the rise of warm air and the descent of cold air

Barometric pressure changes with local weather. Rising pressure means fair weather while falling pressure means poor weather.

Lidar (English: LIDAR or LiDAR, LADAR), is a technology for measuring distance and remotely obtaining information about object in a distance. A laser is used to illuminate the target and then the reflected light is analyzed.

In meteorology the Lidar is used to perform a range of measurements that include profiling clouds, measuring winds, studying aerosols and quantifying various atmospheric components.

 Earlinet network of ground-based lidar stations has lots of lidar images and data, so be sure to check them out.

The anemometers are devices designed to determine the speed of wind. They were initially used primarily for measuring the speed and direction of wind. Today, except in weather stations, they are widely used in determining the average speed in ventilation systems built in the industrial and residential buildings.

Thermometer

The thermometer is a device for measuring the temperature. The thermometers are using various physical properties such as thermal expansion of gases, liquids or solids to determine the current temperature.

The two important part of thermometer are: the sensor in which some physical change occurs with temperature, plus some means of converting this physical change into a numerical value (e.g. the visible scale in glass thermometer).

Whole/all sky camera

All skycam is a stand-alone Astro and weather video device enclosed in a weather proof dome that provides wide view at the entire sky.

All day all night rain or shine images from the all-sky can be viewed on the TV captured on to a laptop or PC or streamed live over the Internet. The cameras fisheye lens gives you a 180 degree view from horizon to horizon. You can use this live video to observe the sunrises and sunsets, cloud activity, moving storms, starry night sky, and more.

In meteorological applications camera is used to study cloud cover, UV index, timelapse photography of clouds, cloud fractional coverage, sky polarization, the computation of cloud base height, as well as wind speed at cloud heights.

A rain gauge is an instrument for measuring the precipitation that has fallen in a given time interval. The rain gauge is part of every weather station. It is used in meteorology as an additional tool of the weather forecast and the climatology for the purpose of long-term statistics of precipitation.

The amounts of rain accumulated in the gauge are read either manually or by automatic weather station (AWS).

Ceiling projector

Ceiling projector is a meteorological instrument for measuring the height of the clouds at night. It measures the height of the cloud base.

Cloud spotlight consists of two components: the sight of the spotlight and the alidade – installed at a certain distance from the projector. Spotlight consists of 430 watt bulbs, installed in protected housing. Inside the case are two mirrors. The first – the lamp above – reflects the light down, and the second – reflects the light up to the clouds. Both mirrors are set to produce a high intensity beam of light that makes a visible light spot on the cloud base.

Radiosonde – a device to measure various atmospheric parameters and transmit them to fixed receivers. Radiosondes can run on dedicated radio frequency 403 MHz or 1680 MHz; both types of transmitters may optionally adjust the frequency within a small range around the specified value.

Rubber or latex balloons filled with helium or hydrogen is used to rise the Radiosonde up into the atmosphere. Sometimes radiosondes are dropped from aircraft. They are most often used in special research projects, such as the study of the storms.

In case you find a radiosonde check out NOAA’s instructions .

Weather balloon

A weather balloon is a balloon which in meteorology is used for transportation of instruments and radiosondes into the atmosphere.

A typical weather balloon is usuallymade of rubber and has a weight of only about 200 grams. The skin of the weather balloon is very sensitive and delicate, so they must be touched only when wearing protective gloves. Even minimal damage may result in increasingly risk bursting at high altitude.

The balloon is filled usually with helium or hydrogen. The probe is attached to the weather balloon at a enough distance so it won’t mess with the balloon slipstream.

The weather balloon can reach heights of 20-30 km before it bursts and the probe returns with a parachute to the ground.

Wind sock is a cone made ​​of fabric designed to indicate the direction and approximate speed of the wind. This is mainly used in the aviation industry, as well as chemical plants, where there is a risk of gas leakage.

Meteorological wind direction corresponds to the opposite direction of the wind direction indicator.

Wind profiler

A wind profiler is a meteorological measurement system that uses radar or sound waves (SODAR) to determine the wind speed and direction at various elevations above the ground. The variables measured from wind direction and speed is useful to meteorological forecasting and timely reporting for flight planning. You can search trough wind profiler history data on NOAA’s website .

Disdrometer

Disdrometr is a device for analyzing the volume of distribution of micro particles in a controlled environment. The main application is to determine the size, speed, and number of raindrops. With disdrometer the meteorologist differ raindrops from graupel and hail.

Hygrometer is a device used for detecting and measuring humidity. There are several types of hygrometers (coil, hair tension, capacitive, resistive and others), whose operation is based on different principles.

Scientific American has a grate article about how to create your own hair hygrometer.

Nephelometer (turbidometer)

A nephelometer is an instrument for determining the suspension of small particles in a liquid or a gas colloid.

It consists of a light source and a photo sensor in the 90° angle to the light beam. The particle density is obtained from the amount of light reflected from individual particles. This amount depends on the nature of the particle’s shape, color, and reflectivity. A correlation between the turbidity and suspended solids is therefore varying from case to case.

The nephelometers are used for air quality measurement for pollution monitoring, climate monitoring, and visibility.

Ceiling balloon

A pilot balloon is used by meteorologists to measure the height of the underside of the clouds from above the ground. It is used during daylight hours. The balloon is filled to such degree that its ascent rate is known. By measuring the time period between the start of the balloon and the moment it hides in the cloud can be determined the height of the cloud base. By tracking the trajectory, earlier with a theodolite, and today by radar or GPS , direction and speed of high-altitude winds are determined.

A snow gauge is a measuring device used in the field of meteorology to measure the water equivalent of an amount of snowfall. It can be equipped with a single vertical metric scale for manual check, or use some electronic system – ultrasonic, infrared, laser. This device is used in snow studies and it is similar in design to a rain gauge.

Ceilometers

Ceilometers – meteorological instruments for determining the height of the cloud base. To operate is either used a laser or other source of coherent light. Ceilometers also used to determine the concentration of aerosols in the atmosphere.

Laser ceilometer consists of a vertical laser and a light receiver, typically a lidar. The laser pulse duration of a few nanoseconds is sent up to the atmosphere. While the beam passes through the atmosphere some of its energy is scattered by the aerosol particles with a size of about the wavelength of laser beam. Because of the effect, called Mie scattering, some of the light is scattered back and captured by the ceilometer receiver. The time delay of the received signal can be converted into the distance by the using a formula.

A Barograph is an instrument for recording air pressure onto a drum covered with paper for a set period of time. The resulting curve is called a barogram. The evaluation of the barogram can give to the weather expert evidence of future weather developments. Barographs are often found on ships.

A dropsonde is a type of radiosonde. This is a device dropped from a flying aircraft, with or without parachute to collect environmental data in the atmosphere during its fall to the ground. This probe is similar to a shell or a cylinder and contains all the necessary instruments.

The tipical use is in hurricane research. The hurricane reconnaissance aircraft unleash many dropsondes through the weather system, and then the device receives the radio data, analyzes and transmits the results back to the forecast center.

Lightning detector

Lightning detector is a device that detects lightning or light rays produced by storms.

There are three basic types of detectors: Earth system, which uses multiple antennas; mobile system, that uses a sensitive antenna usually on board of an aircraft; and spatial system.

The land and mobile detectors auto calculated direction and severity of the lighting from the mounted location, using radio techniques. Terrestrial systems use triangulation from multiple locations to determine the distance, while mobile systems are using the distance estimate signal frequency and attenuation.

Pan evaporation

Pan evaporation instrument is used to measure the effective evaporation.

Several types are used; however, one of the most used is the “Class A”. This is a cylindrical galvanized steel tank, 1.21 m in diameter and 25 cm deep. It is placed on a wooden platform, perfectly horizontal.

The instrument works by measuring the volume of water required to maintain a constant level in a given time, which can be 6, 12 or 24 hours. The volume of water consumed becomes mm of water evaporated per unit of time.

Weather radar

A weather radar or weather radar, is a type of radar used in meteorology to locate precipitation, calculate its trajectory and estimate their types (rain , snow , hail , etc.). In addition, three-dimensional data can be analyzed to extract the structure of storms and their potential path and damage. Finally, the echoes of rainfall and clear atmosphere of the meteo radar can estimate the direction and speed of wind in the lower parts of the atmosphere.

The widespread use of radar during the Second World War revealed the appearance of a noise caused by signals reflected from the areas of precipitation. Investigation of this phenomenon in the US and Canada led to the creation of specialized weather radar intended for meteorological purposes.

The main functions of existing weather radars are:

• detection of hazardous weather, such as a thunderstorm , powerful cumulus clouds, hail, heavy precipitation zone, zones of
• calculation, output and display of vertical and horizontal profiles of meteorological formations

Automatic Weather Station (AWS)

An automatic weather station is a weather station, based on a fixed or mobile site, whose sensors relate weather data to a data logger without human intervention. These stations were developed for use in hard to reach places (weather buoy at sea or remote areas).

Developed for national meteorological services, they are now also used for weather research and amateur meteorologists.

An automatic station includes, some of the sensors listed above, connected to a central processor. The data can be stored in a logger, or transmitted by cable or radio signal to one or more remote locations.

The recorder and the processor are located in a waterproof housing. The station is powered by a rechargeable battery, a solar panel or a wind turbine. The number of sensors depends on the needs.

A good automatic station has at least: thermometer, anemometer, wind vane, hygrometer, and barometer.

For more info on each instrument check this wikipedia page

Thanks for this insight on the instrument used to measure weather. This was my my first time seeing these material awesome. I can only here about these instruments. Send me more information on Geography, I want to teach Geography in the secondary school.

THANK YOU FOR IDEA YOU CAN SEND ME MORE I AM GEOGRAPHY TEACHER

I really love this. I am just hearing of some of these instruments for the first time.

Thank you so much dear

You have presented relevant material that have helped me much.

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How to track the weather, quality devices for remote temperature monitoring via internet and wifi, what is home weather station and how to choose one, emergency radios that can use crank to charge your phone, thermometers you can use to track temperature outside and inside, home weather station to track temperature, rain and wind in your backyard.

Best Hygrometers of 2024

When it comes to understanding our environment, temperature is just half the story. Humidity, or the amount of moisture in the air, plays a big role in how comfortable we feel and the health of our surroundings. From keeping cigars fresh in a humidor to preventing mold in our homes, maintaining the right humidity level is key.

That’s where hygrometers come in. These handy tools measure the humidity in the air, helping us make informed decisions about our environment. In this guide, we’ve rounded up the top five hygrometers available on Amazon. Many of these also measure temperature, giving you a complete picture of your surroundings. Let’s take a closer look at the best options out there.

Understanding Hygrometers

At its core, a hygrometer is a device designed to measure the amount of water vapor (humidity) in the air. This data is used to determine the relative humidity, or the percentage indicating how much water vapor is in the air compared to the maximum amount the air can hold. It’s this percentage that you often see in weather reports.

The significance of humidity extends beyond weather forecasts. Indoors, it influences our comfort levels and can either promote or inhibit mold growth. Moreover, the right humidity ensures the longevity of food and other perishables. Extreme humidity levels, both high and low, can affect our well-being. High humidity can feel oppressive and may worsen health issues, while low humidity can lead to problems like static electricity. Owning a dependable hygrometer can make a real difference in understanding and managing our environment.

Digital vs. Analog Hygrometers

Traditional analog hygrometers utilize a metal wire coil that contracts with increasing humidity due to greater water absorption. The resulting change in resistance is measured to determine the humidity level.

On the other hand, digital hygrometers gauge the conductivity of the air surrounding their sensors. As humidity rises, it becomes easier for electrical currents to flow, and this change in conductivity is measured to ascertain humidity levels.

Our Top Picks

This package includes three temperature sensors and a Wi-Fi gateway to allow you to access the sensors. But it does not have the true remote monitoring of the Temp Stick.

This digital humidor thermometer can store a three-day average of both temperature and humidity.

This cheap hygrometer is user-calibratable and requires no batteries.

Best Hygrometers

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.

• Inexpensive way to monitor multiple locations
• You can add more and view on app
• You can only view your data when you're on the same Wi-Fi network, no remote access

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.

• No batteries to replace
• If you're a cigar enthusiast, you'll want something with more features

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.

• Great for maintaining stable temperature and humidity
• More expensive than an analog option

ThermoPro TP60

The budget-minded ThermoPro TP60 is a good option when your budget is limited.

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.

• It's inexpensive
• No WiFi connectivity

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some of the most often-asked questions by readers.

What humidity level is best indoors?

To keep your indoor area comfortable, humidity should be between 30% and 50%. If your indoor humidity exceeds that range, consider a  dehumidifier  if it’s too high and a  humidifier  if it is too low.

What is humidity?

Humidity is a measure of how much moisture is in the air. The humidity measurement we are most familiar with is  relative humidity.  This measures the moisture that air at a given temperature will hold. The amount of moisture in the air at a temperature of 78 with 70% humidity is more than a temperature of 38 at 70% humidity. Therefore, it’s “relative” to the temperature.

How does temperature impact humidity?

The temperature has a direct impact on humidity. Warm air can hold more moisture than cold air, so water vapor increases when the temperature rises. When the air reaches saturation (100% relative humidity), any further temperature increase will cause condensation. This is why you often see dew or frost forming on surfaces when the temperature drops at night. The warmer air during the day caused water vapor to rise into the atmosphere, but as soon as the temperature started to fall, that water vapor condensed into tiny droplets of dew or frost.

Where do I put my home hygrometer?

We recommend that you place an indoor hygrometer in a location where you spend the majority of your time, whether it’s your family room, living room, or den. Try to avoid placing your hygrometer near moist areas — bathrooms (shower) and the kitchen (cooking) are areas you should avoid. Another smart place to place a hygrometer is in your pantry — this can help prevent mold growth and spoilage of foods you have stored there.

I need to calibrate my hygrometer. How do I do that?

It is not difficult at all to do. Boveda sells a  calibration kit  that allows you to check the calibration of your hygrometer. These kits are set to recreate a certain humidity, for example, 75%, and you place the hygrometer inside to see what it measures. Once you get a stable reading, you use the results to calibrate your hygrometer.

How do I raise/lower the humidity in my home?

There are a few ways to raise or lower the humidity in your home. One way is to use a  humidifier  to add moisture or a  dehumidifier  to remove moisture from the air. You can also adjust your home’s temperature; warmer temperatures will decrease the humidity, and cooler temperatures will increase it. Finally, you can open and close windows to allow more or less air into your home.

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Best Hygrometer Reviews in 2024: We Found the Most Accurate Digital Hygrometer

Maintaining incorrect humidity in a room, building, or enclosed space can impact health, interfere with storage conditions, and damage expensive possessions. 

Whether you’re monitoring your home’s humidity levels, operating a greenhouse, storing cigars, or caring for your animals—measuring the relative humidity is essential.

The best way to measure humidity in a particular space is with a digital hygrometer. In this article, we share our reviews of the best hygrometers on the market, including the best model for humidors, for home use, and the most accurate overall.

At A Glance: Our Top 5 Picks for Hygrometers in 2024

• Best Overall: Temp Stick WiFi Temperature & Hygrometer Sensor
• Runner-Up: SensorPush Wireless Thermometer & Hygrometer
• Best Humidor Hygrometer: Cigar Oasis Caliber 4R Gold Digital/Analog Hygrometer
• Best for Home Use: Ambient Weather WS-10 Wireless Thermo-Hygrometer
• Cigar Oasis Caliber IV Digital Hygrometer

Our team of editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products to help you navigate when shopping online. This post contains compensated links, and if you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn a commission. To learn more, read our disclaimer .

Table of Contents

What is a Hygrometer?

A hygrometer, sometimes known as a humidity meter or humidity gauge, is a device for measuring humidity in the air. In other words, hygrometers measure the amount of moisture in a particular environment, usually by calculating temperature and pressure changes. 

There are many kinds of hygrometers, including electrical or digital models, psychrometers, mechanical hygrometers, and dew point hygrometers. 

Digital hygrometers are often used in industrial premises, greenhouses, and other outdoor spaces, for quick and accurate humidity readings. Commercial and domestic uses for digital hygrometers, such as keeping food storage spaces moisture-free, preserving cigars, and monitoring wine cellars abound.

Best Hygrometer Reviews

Here is our list of the best hygrometers on the market with reviews and ratings. We’ve done the research and testing—along with analyzing real customer reviews—to offer our recommendations on the best models for every application.

1. Best Overall: Temp Stick WiFi Temperature & Hygrometer Sensor

Our top pick is the Temp Stick remote hygrometer from Ideal Sciences. This sensor monitors both temperature and humidity conditions. It can be connected to any WiFi network, so you can receive email or text alerts when the temperature or moisture levels exceed your pre-set limits.

Made in the USA, this remote hygrometer is a precise and versatile option to continually monitor conditions in any environment, from just about anywhere. 

Unlike some wireless hygrometers, it’s extremely easy to set up in just a few minutes and it’s factory calibrated (you can also adjust the calibration if required). 

It requires only two AA batteries, and users report battery life between 6 and 12 months depending on usage. You’ll also get an automatic alert if the batteries are low, to minimize any downtime.

We found the Temp Stick to be a highly accurate and reliable wireless hygrometer, designed to work in conditions from -40°F to 140°F (accurate to ±0.4°C), and track humidity from 0% to 100% (accurate to ±4% RH). 

We also love that you can view your entire history of readings through the app.

Monitoring is easy, using an intuitive app available for both iPhone and Android devices. There is also a web-based version available for monitoring via your computer.

The flexibility of this device allows you to:

• Connect an unlimited number of sensors to monitor multiple locations within one account.
• Choose how often the Temp Stick takes measurements, every 5, 10, 15, 30, or 60 minutes.
• Set custom triggers for alerts (e.g., alert you when humidity reaches a particular measurement).
• Include up to 10 contacts to receive alerts.

Plus, the built-in WiFi connectivity, the intuitive app, and the excellent reliability of the Temp Stick makes this device a worthwhile investment.

Use our link (button) below to get the Temp Stick at an unbeatable price directly from Ideal Sciences.

Read full review: Temp Stick Sensor Review

• High accuracy hygrometer
• Made in the USA
• WiFi connectivity
• Quick setup
• Zero subscription fees
• User-friendly app
• Free email and phone support 7 days a week
• The shortest reporting interval is 5 minutes, so you don’t get true real-time reporting
• Battery life is reduced when using frequent reporting intervals

2. Runner-Up: SensorPush Wireless Thermometer & Hygrometer

If the Temp Stick is out of your budget, then the next best hygrometer is the SensorPush. This digital hygrometer is a great option for monitoring humidity conditions within your home. 

In ideal conditions, with no obstructions, this sensor has a 325-foot range via a Bluetooth connection. 

There is also an option to purchase a WiFi gateway device to get alerts from anywhere, similar to the Temp Stick—but the gateway is an expensive and bulky accessory in comparison to the compact and small thermometer hygrometer measuring unit.

The SensorPush takes readings continually (every minute), and can store up to 20 days of data within the device itself. So, if you are away, whether for an hour or a week, the SensorPush keeps monitoring and stores the data to be retrieved once you reconnect. 

Like the Temp Stick, unlimited data is stored in the easy to use SensorPush app (available for iPhone and Android devices).

This device is also flexible and versatile, with the ability to monitor an unlimited number of sensors. Each sensor can also be monitored by an unlimited number of users. 

Users report that setup is easy, and the sensor runs on a CR2477 coin cell battery (included), providing over a year of battery life. In addition, the Swiss-made sensing component in the SensorPush ensures reliable, accurate measurements.

We found the SensorPush to be a high-quality thermometer hygrometer that’s very easy to use, plus it’s more affordable than the Temp Stick. 

If you need remote monitoring outside of your home you will need to add the WiFi gateway device, and then the cost increases significantly. To monitor humidity and temperature conditions from anywhere—we prefer the Temp Stick, but the SensorPush is an excellent option around the home.

Click here to check the price of the affordable and wireless SensorPush on Amazon

• More affordable price
• Easy set up with battery included
• Highly functional and easy-to-use app
• Ability to store up to 20 days of data if disconnected from Bluetooth
• High accuracy and reliability
• Compact and lightweight
• Price increases substantially if adding the WiFi gateway
• Bluetooth range can be limited depending on where the device is located in the home

3. Best Humidor Hygrometer: Cigar Oasis Caliber 4R Gold Digital/Analog Hygrometer

A common use for hygrometers is within a humidor, where cigars are stored in a controlled environment. After researching and evaluating several options, we prefer the Caliber 4R by Western Humidor for use in cigar humidors.

The Caliber 4R is an affordable yet advanced humidity sensor, and it’s almost as accurate as a high-end laboratory hygrometer as it measures within ±1% RH with a range of 20-90%. 

It is a small device with an elegant and classic analog hygrometer design, making it a perfect solution for your humidor. It comes factory-calibrated, but you can also adjust the calibration as required. 

Users like the color-coded, simple analog design of this sensor, mainly because it is paired with the accuracy of a digital display.

This device provides both real-time temperature and humidity monitoring, and offers a three day high/low and averages display for humidity and temperature. Mount the humidity meter using a metal disk which sticks to your humidor and a magnetic disk on the back of the humidity gauge.

For accuracy and affordability, we feel this is the best hygrometer option for ensuring environmentally stable storage for your cigars. Though there are no remote reporting or alert options, it’s an extremely accurate and functional option at a low price.

A few users reported issues with calibration, but most raved about the accuracy and reliability. The only other negative we noted among several users was that the screen is not adjustable, and hard to read unless looking at exactly the right angle.

• Extremely accurate
• Secure magnetic mount
• Classic design
• Display must be read at the right angle or it is hard to read
• No remote reporting or alert options

4. Best for Home Use: Ambient Weather WS-10 Wireless Thermo-Hygrometer

If you’re interested in monitoring multiple locations within your home, including indoors and outdoors, we recommend the Ambient Weather WS-10 Wireless Thermo-Hygrometer.

This device features a central indoor console, and three remote sensors, with the ability to connect up to eight sensors in total. The temperature and humidity readings display on the console and each sensor; the console also includes its own sensor. 

The system uses a wireless signal with a limited transmission range (100 feet under most conditions), so the sensors must be within the range of that signal.

With the Ambient Weather WS-10, you’ll get visual and audible alarms on the main console if the temperature or moisture levels exceed your pre-set maximum or minimum limits, making it easy to simultaneously and passively monitor conditions throughout your home. 

You can place sensors in your attic, humidor, basement, storage room, wine cellar, outside, or other indoor areas, to monitor all of them at once - which makes this an ideal home-use unit.

The most significant downfall of this model is the lack of a companion app to monitor conditions remotely and store data. However, if you’re looking for the best home hygrometer to monitor multiple areas around your house and get alerts when there is a substantial change, this is a top option packed with a lot of value.

• Indoor and outdoor compatible
• Can connect up to eight sensors
• Alerts when conditions exceed your pre-set maximum or minimum
• Easy to read display with data from all sensors on screen
• No remote reporting capabilities
• No way to see past data
• Wireless signal has a limited range

5. Cigar Oasis Caliber IV Digital Hygrometer

The Caliber IV by Western Humidor is very similar to the Caliber 4R. The main difference is the type of display: the Caliber IV is a digital display, while the Caliber 4R combines an analog and digital display for a more stylish design.

The specifications and functionality are similar to the 4R with an accuracy rating of ±1% RH and the ability to re-calibrate the sensor. Both hygrometers are highly accurate and perfect for use within your humidor. 

We noted some users commented about difficulty with calibration. Even though it comes factory-calibrated, we always recommend calibrating a new humidity meter when you receive it to ensure accurate readings.

The Caliber IV is small and slim, and has a secure magnetic mount, making it easy to fit inside your humidor. It measures both temperature and humidity and records three days of high, low, and average measurements. 

Like the Caliber 4R, our only complaint is the lack of remote monitoring. Regardless, the affordable price and high degree of accuracy makes it one of the best digital hygrometers for humidors.

• Cheap humidity meter
• Highly accurate
• Small and easy to fit inside any humidor
• Factory calibrated with the ability to re-calibrate

6. Extech 445815 Humidity Meter with Alarm and Remote Probe

If you need a humidity gauge to measure a hard-to-reach area, the Extech 445815 model with the optional remote probe may be the best device for you.

The Extech 445815 offers a large display showing the current humidity levels, temperature, and dew point of the room or area it is in. Like the Ambient Weather WS-10, you can set minimum and maximum humidity numbers, and receive audible and visual alerts when those levels are exceeded.

The most unique feature of this sensor is the remote probe, which has an 18-inch cable for measuring behind walls, in ducts, or in other areas that are difficult to access. It also includes a stand for operation on a desk or other flat surface, plus there’s a bracket for wall mounting.

The Extech is also NIST Certifiable to satisfy ISO and other regulatory body requirements for product accuracy and traceability to nationally recognized reference standards.

This model does not include any remote monitoring capabilities, and the only data storage is a recall of minimum and maximum readings. For its basic functionality, it is a bit pricier, but is a perfect option for professional applications, especially if you require NIST certification or need to measure behind walls, in ducts, or other hard-to-reach areas.

• Large, easy to read display
• Measures temperature, humidity, and dew point
• Includes alerts if humidity surpasses your pre-set levels
• Stand and wall mount included
• Remote probe for hard-to-reach areas
• NIST Certifiable
• Less functionality for the price (if you don’t need the remote probe)
• Data storage is limited to minimum and maximum readings
• No remote monitoring

7. AcuRite 01083 Pro Accuracy Indoor Temperature and Humidity Monitor

If you’re looking for a basic humidity monitor with first-rate accuracy at an affordable price, this is the option for you. The AcuRite 01083 is accurate to ±0.5°F and ±2% RH. A large display shows humidity and temperature, along with the high & low levels of the past 24 hours. 

There is also a color-coded humidity indicator, showing whether humidity levels are too low, too high, or okay. Of course, ideal humidity levels vary depending on the person, location, and use, but the indicator is handy for simple reference.

The AcuRite 01083 is easy to stand or mount quickly anywhere in your home. It stands upright on a desk or tabletop, is wall-mountable, and includes a magnetic backing.

For the most accurate temperature and humidity readings, this sensor does need to be manually calibrated. However, it comes with step-by-step calibration instructions to make the process as simple as possible. 

If you only want to measure humidity in one place indoors, without monitoring it remotely, this is a great indoor hygrometer option at a reasonable price.

• Cheap hygrometer for home use
• Easy to stand or mount anywhere
• Easy to read display
• No remote monitoring functionality
• No data storage beyond high and low levels in the past 24 hours and all-time

What is the Best Digital Hygrometer for Humidors?

Ideal conditions for a cigar humidor are 70°F and 70% RH. Use a hygrometer to monitor the humidity and temperature in your humidor.

Cigars not stored properly at the right temperature and humidity can dry up, become moldy, or lose their flavor and aroma, which is why cigars must be stored inside a humidor in a controlled environment. 

For best flavor and quality, cigars should be stored at a temperature of 70 degrees Fahrenheit, with a humidity level of 68-72%. We recommend the Boveda 72% Humidity Control Packs to maintain the ideal conditions inside your humidor. 

Many humidors come with a hygrometer, but we find there are often better options if purchased separately.

The Temp Stick is one of the best hygrometers for humidor use because you can view the temperature and humidity from just about anywhere, thanks to the built-in WiFi connectivity and the easy to use smartphone app. 

We love the remote option because you will receive alerts without the need to open your humidor if the temperature or humidity exceeds the trigger levels that you set through the app.

What is the Most Accurate Hygrometer?

Of all the humidity monitors we analyzed, the Caliber 4R and Caliber IV are the most accurate hygrometer devices. They read within ±1% RH, and the humidity range is 20-90%. That means that the Caliber 4R and Caliber IV are accurate within 1% of the actual humidity, surpassing all the other options we reviewed. 

Even the Temp Stick, our favorite hygrometer, is accurate only to ±4% RH (which still makes it the most accurate among the remote monitors). Both Caliber models come factory-calibrated, but can also be re-calibrated by ±6%.

The ±1% RH accuracy of these two sensors is extremely impressive, especially for an inexpensive, home-use hygrometer. Normally, we would expect to see that kind of accuracy from a laboratory humidity meter, which can cost up to a thousand dollars. 

If accuracy is paramount to you, then we highly recommend either the Caliber 4R or Caliber IV.

How to Calibrate a Hygrometer

When using humidity monitors, in all scenarios, the level of accuracy is the most critical factor. Although most hygrometers come factory-calibrated, we always recommend calibrating it yourself when you first receive it to ensure the highest level of accuracy. 

The video below shows how to calibrate your hygrometer with the Boveda Calibration Kit.

How to Adjust the Humidity Level in an Enclosed Environment

An accurate indoor hygrometer will measure the humidity in an enclosed environment like a cigar humidor, guitar case, or food storage container—but how do you adjust the level if the conditions aren’t suitable?

Introducing the Boveda Humidity Control Packs . The patented technology inside the pack either adds or removes humidity as conditions require, maintaining the specific moisture content engineered into each pack. 

The Boveda packs are available in humidity levels of 49, 58, 62, 65, 69, 72, 75, and 84% and they are accurate to ±1% RH in an airtight environment. Just research the ideal level for your particular application, and choose the appropriate control packs.

How to Adjust the Humidity Level in Your Home

Monitoring and controlling changing conditions in your home is important for both comfort and health reasons. When the humidity percentage is too high, condensation can build up on walls and windows, which can lead to water damage and mold growth. 

When humidity is too low , irritated sinuses and dry skin are common problems. To adjust your indoor humidity you may need a humidifier or a dehumidifier . Below are some more ways to increase or decrease humidity in your home .

Use a humidifier to increase the humidity in your house.

1. Use a Humidifier

A humidifier will raise the level of humidity in your home (or a particular room). They are commonly used during the winter when the air is driest. 

If you are running your heater during the winter, it’s even more important to monitor the humidity levels because as you heat up your air, the humidity drops and its dryness will become increasingly apparent. We recommend using a large room humidifier to see the full benefits.

2. Use a Dehumidifier

Dehumidifiers are designed to filter the air and soak up excess moisture, making them a good way to lower humidity levels in your home . You may want to use a dehumidifier only in certain areas, such as basements or storage spaces, to moderate humidity in these moisture-rich environments. 

We recommend the hOmeLabs Energy Star Dehumidifier (click here to check the price on Amazon) .

3. Grow Leafy Plants

If low humidity is a common occurrence in your home, you can address it naturally by growing leafy plants. Water from the plants will evaporate into the air, increasing the humidity.

4. Open Windows

During spring and fall, the easiest way to regulate humidity in your home may be to open some windows. Doing so not only cools off your house, which decreases humidity, but it also takes advantage of the humidity outside to regulate your home’s humidity levels.

5. Turn on an Air Conditioner in the Summer

Cooling your home with an air conditioner not only lowers the temperature but also regulates humidity levels in summer . Modern air conditioners remove humidity as part of the cooling process.

Important Considerations When Shopping for a Digital Hygrometer

Finding the best humidity monitor depends on a variety of factors, including the main reason for using the hygrometer, its accuracy, power source, and many more. To choose the best digital humidity meter for your specific needs, keep the following considerations in mind.

A greenhouse is a common application for hygrometers.

Application

Shopping for and deciding on the best humidity gauge largely depends on where you plan to use the device. Are you looking for the best indoor humidity monitor, the best hygrometer for cigars, or a hygrometer for your greenhouse? 

Below are some common applications for a digital hygrometer.

If your digital hygrometer is for basic home use, you may not need the same precision as you would for a cigar humidor. Consider exactly what your needs are, including whether you want to monitor multiple rooms simultaneously, where you need to place your humidity gauge, and whether you require remote monitoring and real-time alerts. 

For instance, you may need a system with multiple sensors for indoors and outdoors or a remote sensor for hard-to-reach areas such as an attic.

If you’re mostly interested in the outdoor weather conditions, then a home weather station will be a better instrument for your needs. Take a look at our home weather station reviews to see the top models.

Understanding these factors will ensure you purchase the most accurate digital hygrometer for your home use, which caters specifically to your individual needs.

Cigar Humidors

A humidity meter is a critical instrument to keep cigars fresh and full of flavor. So you may have different factors to consider to find the best cigar hygrometer. 

Accuracy is the key here, but we find the hygrometers that come with humidors are often low quality, so it may be worth purchasing a separate high-quality model to monitor your cigars effectively.

Make sure it is small enough to fit in your humidor, and consider how you will mount the device. Some users find that a mounting mechanism such as a magnetic mount is useful. 

Determine if you want to invest a little more in a digital hygrometer with remote monitoring capabilities to assess conditions from your smartphone, or if a simpler device is sufficient.

Instrument Cases

A musical instrument is a significant investment, so it’s critical that you protect it to prevent warping, cracking, shrinkage, or other costly issues. That’s why experts recommend always storing the instrument in its case. 

An important factor in keeping your guitar (or other wooden instruments) away from the repair shop is the level of humidity it is stored in, which can cause damage even within the case. Mold, decaying wood, and distortions of the surface can all result from excess moisture. 

Protect the integrity of your guitar by placing a humidity monitor inside the case with a Boveda humidity control pack.

To keep your reptiles healthy and happy, it’s essential that you monitor humidity and temperature levels within your terrarium. Do a little research on your particular pet to understand whether they would benefit from low or high humidity levels and what is their ideal temperature.

When choosing a device, you may want to get a combination thermometer/hygrometer, but make sure it fits your needs for both measurements. For instance, if your pet has a basking area and a cooler area, experts recommend monitoring temperatures in both spots, so you may need two devices.

Greenhouses

To properly care for the plants in your greenhouse, you need to monitor the conditions to provide the best environment for your plants to thrive. 

A greenhouse temperature monitor will help you control humidity levels, particularly as they change during different seasons or times of the day. 

As explained earlier, accuracy is a critical concern in determining the best humidity meter for your needs. Do you need an extremely precise meter, or will a standard, inexpensive device suffice? Check accuracy ratings and ranges when evaluating device options and features.

When reading digital hygrometer reviews, look for the ±% RH rating, this is the margin of error that the sensor has. The most accurate humidity sensors on the market have a margin of ±1% RH, but up to ±4% RH or even a little higher is sufficient for many purposes.

Power Source and Battery Life

An important consideration to keep in mind when shopping is the power source and battery life of a device. Is it wireless or does it need to be plugged in? If wireless, what type of batteries are needed and how long is the expected battery life?

Remote Monitoring and Alerts

A highly beneficial function with some of the best hygrometers is remote monitoring and alerts. In other words, you can monitor your device remotely from an app, and receive alerts if levels exceed your pre-set limits. 

Our top choice, the Temp Stick, has WiFi connectivity to deliver these remote capabilities. You will pay more for the Temp Stick and other remote temperature monitors , but the functionality is worth the extra cost for the 24/7 monitoring to avoid expenses, damage, and loss to your property. 

Additional Sensor Support

If you need to monitor several locations simultaneously, such as in multiple rooms, you’ll need a hygrometer that can connect additional sensors to one system. Consider how many areas you need to monitor and the distance between them, as many devices have a limited range.

User Interface

Consider the user interface of each device when exploring different models. Is the display clear and easy to read? If you (or the intended user) is older or has trouble seeing, will the display be large enough to see? If there is a companion app with an easy-to-navigate interface?

Focus on photos of the product, as well as what reviewers say, to get a good idea of the quality of the user interface and general ease of use.

Data Logging

When looking at different options, consider if you need or want to access historical data. Some devices log unlimited data, which may be necessary if you need a historical report of the humidity levels. 

On the other hand, some hygrometers capture a limited amount of data such as the highs and lows for the past 24 hours, and some devices have no data storage options at all.

NIST Certification

If you need a particularly precise hygrometer (such as for industrial uses) to satisfy ISO and other regulatory body requirements for product accuracy and traceability, be sure to look for one with a NIST certification , which is a nationally recognized calibration standard.

Of course, the price is always an important consideration when shopping, but it’s vital to evaluate each price in the context of features and accuracy. 

For instance, a more expensive hygrometer with remote monitoring may be of better value in the long run, in comparison to a small and cheap hygrometer with no smartphone app.

Types of Hygrometers

As you can see from our hygrometer reviews, we mainly focus on electrical or digital hygrometers as they are the most common and advanced models. Learn about the four main types of hygrometers below and how they measure the humidity in the air .

1. Electrical Hygrometers

Electrical hygrometers use either resistance or capacitance to measure humidity. Resistive hygrometers measure the change in resistance as electricity passes through a piece of ceramic substance (more water vapor condenses inside the ceramic as the air becomes more moist).

Capacitive hygrometers measure the electric charge between two metal plates, which changes as humidity rises.

2. Psychrometers

A psychrometer uses two thermometers (one with a dry bulb and one with a wet bulb). Humidity causes evaporation in the wet bulb, which lowers the temperature. The difference in temperature between the two bulbs is used to calculate the amount of moisture in the air.

3. Dew Point Hygrometers

Dew point hygrometers are the most precise and typically used in areas where even the smallest amount of moisture must be detected. 

These hygrometers typically contain a polished metal surface. As humidity rises, moisture condenses on the surface, which is used to measure the current humidity.

4. Mechanical Hygrometers

Mechanical hygrometers use an organic substance such as human hair, which contracts and expands as humidity changes. That contraction or expansion causes a needle on the dial to move, indicating the amount of moisture in the air.

Whether you’re keeping your home’s relative humidity at healthy levels, ensuring proper storage of priceless artwork, or monitoring your cigar humidor—closely tracking the humidity in the air is extremely important. 

A digital hygrometer can give you a precise reading, so you know exactly when the conditions need to be adjusted. There are many humidity meters on the market, with a wide variety of features, accuracy, and prices. 

Some hygrometers are basic devices that measure humidity in one area. Others may include several sensors to monitor the conditions in multiple areas, and some allow for remote monitoring through an accompanying smartphone app.

Based on our extensive research, the best hygrometers are the Temp Stick, SensorPush, and Caliber 4R. For most applications, we highly recommend the Temp Stick, especially if you need a device for remote monitoring. 

If you’re a cigar enthusiast and require a more affordable and accurate hygrometer for your humidor, then we suggest the Caliber 4R. Don’t forget to calibrate your humidity gauge with a calibration kit when you first receive it and re-calibrate it periodically to maintain the accuracy of the readings. 

About The Author

Erik Nymann

Hey, I'm Erik, a tech blogger residing in Reno, Nevada. I specialize in writing about the latest gadgets and technology trends. I recently discovered a fascination for meteorology after my wife bought me an Ambient Weather station for my 31st birthday. Here at Weather Station Advisor, I combine my unhealthy obsession with technology and my newfound interest in the weather to bring you the lowdown on the latest weather instruments to hit the market.

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Comments (6).

Which rooms in my house should I not put a hygrometer in?

Never install a hygrometer in a kitchen, bathroom, or sauna room. These rooms have water and heat sources that will change the humidity reading quite drastically throughout the day. Any readings there would be inaccurate, and the higher heat may damage your hygrometer’s sensors.

How can I test my hygrometer for accuracy?

A simple DIY test to check your hygrometer’s accuracy is to dampen a towel, then wrap your hygrometer sensor with it for a half an hour. Remove the towel and immediately take a reading. It should read 80% to 100% humidity – depending on how sensitive the reading capacity of your device is.

I’d like to purchase a device to measure the humidity in my home, so would I get a hygrometer or a humidity meter?

A humidity meter is a device generally used by insurance companies and building contractors to measure the humidity in a brick or stone foundation. However, a hygrometer is a device that measures the amount of moisture in the air of your home, so this would be the type of measuring device to choose. We recommend the Temp Stick, which has excellent features, but you can even use a basic mechanical hygrometer if you merely want a rough indication of moisture in your home atmosphere.

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Top 5 Hygrometers For Monitoring Guitar Humidity In 2023

As an avid guitar player and enthusiast, keeping my instrument in peak condition is a top priority. From my years of experience, I’ve learned proper humidity control is essential for any wooden musical instrument.

When the relative humidity drops below 40%, the wood becomes brittle and you risk long-term damage. Trust me, I’ve been there! That’s why I always recommend guitarists invest in a quality hygrometer to effortlessly monitor temperature and humidity.

After testing many models, I’m sharing my picks for the best guitar hygrometers and hygrometer-humidifier combos for foolproof guitar care.

I personally recommend the Oasis OH-2 Digital Hygrometer as a great value choice and the SensorPush HT1 as the best smart Hygrometer if you need remote monitoring capabilities. The Oasis OH-2 is accurate, easy to use, and very budget-friendly, while the SensorPush HT1 connects to your phone for real-time humidity readings.

You should read this article because I’ll break down exactly what to look for in a hygrometer and provide helpful reviews of my top recommendations based on hands-on testing and experience.

With the right hygrometer, you can protect your prized guitar for years to come.

Table of Contents

Do You Really Need a Hygrometer for Your Guitar?

As a guitarist, I used to wonder if buying a hygrometer was truly necessary. After all, can’t you just eyeball the room conditions and assume everything is fine?

In my experience, the answer is a resounding no. Your eyes can be deceiving when it comes to subtle changes in temperature and humidity. Small fluctuations that seem harmless can wreak havoc on your beloved six-string over time.

Take it from me, investing in an accurate hygrometer is one of the smartest things you can do as a guitar owner. It provides indispensable feedback you just can’t get otherwise.

With a quality hygrometer monitoring conditions inside your case or studio, you’ll always know if the environment is optimal for your instrument.

You’ll also be alerted early if humidity levels start to veer into dangerous territory for the wood. This gives you a chance to take corrective action before any serious damage occurs.

While an extra purchase may seem unnecessary, a hygrometer is essential insurance for your prized guitar. The relatively small upfront cost is well worth it for the peace of mind and protection it provides.

Don’t make the mistake I did – get yourself a hygrometer and never look back.

Things to Consider When Buying a Hygrometer for Guitar

Now that you know our top picks, we’re sure that you might be torn between two or more of these options. To help you narrow down your choices, here are some of the things to consider when buying a hygrometer for a guitar.

Without a doubt, accuracy should be your first consideration when buying the best guitar hygrometer. As much as possible, it should be extra sensitive to the humidity levels surrounding your guitar to deliver accurate readings.

When the readings are not accurate, you run the risk of maintaining humidity inside a guitar case or guitar room that’s beyond the recommended range. As a result, that will cause the guitar’s material to deteriorate faster than it should. That means the purpose of buying the guitar humidity meter will be defeated.

Attachment Options

The best hygrometer for musical instruments often features attachment mechanisms. This feature allows it to be mounted on various parts of the instrument to accurately measure relative humidity levels. this is often the case for guitars, where you can mount the hygrometer on the soundhole or the neck.

But in most cases, users are satisfied with placing the device near the guitar. In this case, you won’t need an attachment mechanism, since it can easily fit inside the compartment on your guitar case. The choice depends on which will be the most convenient for you.

Readability

It’s also important to consider the readability of the hygrometer, so you can easily tell the status of the air surrounding the guitar.

Fortunately, most modern hygrometers now come with a digital display that allows us to read everything. We don’t have to rely on a shifty dial just to get a good reading on the relative humidity.

Battery Life

If you’re using a digital hygrometer for a guitar, it’s best to check its battery life as well.

When a device has a decent battery life, you don’t have to keep recharging or replacing the battery often. That will save you a lot of time and effort – not to mention, you will be able to continuously monitor the air’s humidity. Also, the worst thing that could happen is to have the battery die out when you need it most.

It also helps if the battery is fast charging. This way, your guitar won’t be left unmonitored for long.

Extra Features

Some hygrometers come with a thermometer, while others come with a convenient clock feature. In some cases, you can purchase a hygrometer and humidifier combo, so you can truly maintain the correct humidity level for your guitar.

Of course, these added features also come with an extra cost. If you’re planning to use a device other than a hygrometer, then there’s no harm in investing in them. But if you’re only using it for checking humidity levels, the practical route is to stick with a simple hygrometer.

Review of Top Hygrometers for Guitar Enthusiasts

1. oasis oh-2 digital hygrometer.

• Guaranteed for 5 full years
• Super-slim profile design with secure Velcro mount fits anywhere
• Advanced humidity sensor maintains exceptional accuracy for years
• Records high/low temperatures

Specifications:

• Humidity Range: 20-90% RH
• Temperature: 0° to 50°C or 32° to 122°F
• Reading Interval: 10 Seconds
• Battery Life: 1 Year

The Oasis OH-2 Digital Hygrometer is one of the best affordable options for monitoring humidity levels around your guitar. Its slim profile slides easily into a case, while Velcro straps allow secure mounting. The unit also displays temperatures in Celsius and Fahrenheit.

I appreciate the OH-2’s easy-to-read display and accurate humidity readings. For the price, it’s a reliable hygrometer that provides valuable feedback without breaking the bank. Oasis also backs it with a 5-year guarantee.

If calibration is important to you, consider the OH-2C or OH-2+ models. The OH-2C adds a calibration feature, while the OH-2+ has an advanced humidity sensor and extended 10% RH measurement capability. However, the original OH-2 will suit most users’ needs just fine.

The Oasis OH-2 Digital Hygrometer succeeds as an affordable, easy-to-use humidity monitor. While the advanced OH-2+ may be better for some, the original model provides excellent functionality for most guitarists needing reliable humidity readings.

In my experience, the main downsides are potential issues with long-term Velcro mounting and lack of calibration on the basic OH-2 model. For monitoring your guitar’s environment on a budget, the OH-2 is a great choice.

2. SensorPush Wireless Thermometer/Hygrometer for iPhone/Android

• Premium sensing component with the accuracy of ±3%RH
• Small and attractive design
• Use the sensor and your phone for data and alerts
• Bluetooth range of 325 feet
• Humidity Range: 0-100% RH
• Temperature: -40° to 60°C or -40° to 140°F
• Reading Interval: 60 Seconds
• Battery Life: Over 1 Year

The SensorPush Wireless Hygrometer lives up to its premium reputation as one of the most advanced guitar hygrometers available. Its Bluetooth connectivity sends real-time temperature and humidity data directly to your smartphone from up to 325 feet or almost 100 meters away.

At the core is an incredibly accurate Swiss sensor that delivers precision readings every time. Despite the compact size, it packs impressive technology into a durable, water-resistant housing.

I appreciate how simple it is to monitor conditions remotely via the mobile app. You can also monitor data and get alerts over the internet by using a compatible WiFi device, which is sold separately.

With customizable alerts, you can stay on top of any fluctuations the moment they occur, even when away from your guitar.

Battery life is also stellar, so you aren’t constantly recharging. For tech-savvy guitarists seeking top-tier performance, the seamless smartphone integration and highly sensitive sensor make the SensorPush Wireless an unbeatable hygrometer.

The main drawback is the lack of an integrated display, as you must rely on a connected mobile device. However, for those wanting real-time remote monitoring and access to in-depth data, this all-in-one solution delivers.

Overall, the SensorPush Wireless Hygrometer is the ultimate high-tech humidity monitoring system for guitarists who want precision tracking and complete mobile control. The hefty price tag is justified by its unmatched accuracy and connectivity.

3. MusicNomad Premium Humidity Care System

• Long lasting, low maintenance Re-usable sponge
• Anti-drip, no mess material
• Sponge holds 10 times its weight in water. And safely releases moisture
• Securely hangs from strings or use case holster to place in case
• Humidity Range: 20-99% RH
• Reading Interval: 20 Seconds

The MusicNomad Premium Humidity Care System takes the guesswork out of monitoring and controlling humidity for your guitar. This handy combo includes separate hygrometer and humidifier units for versatile mounting.

The innovative hygrometer clips to your strings and clearly displays all essential temperature and humidity data. I’ve found readings to be highly accurate and reliable.

The matching humidifier attaches securely inside the soundhole and uses an anti-drip sponge to release moisture gradually. This prevents messes while keeping your guitar’s environment at optimal humidity.

Since both pieces mount securely, you can position the hygrometer on the exterior and the humidifier inside to suit your needs. The ability to customize placement is a major plus.

My main gripe is that some plastic components feel a bit flimsy. However, the performance is sound, and the system simplifies humidity maintenance.

Overall, the MusicNomad Premium Humidity Care System is an excellent all-in-one solution for guitarists seeking robust humidity management.

Keeping your instrument’s environment optimized is hassle-free with this durable and thoughtfully designed humidifier/hygrometer combo. For convenience and accuracy, it’s hard to beat.

4. MusicNomad HumiReader (MN 305)

• Measures humidity and temperature every 20 seconds
• Innovative 3-in-1 design for sound hole, Case, or room
• Hang from strings to monitor sound hole or use case holster
• Reads Fahrenheit or Celsius
• Humidity Range: 1-99% RH

The MusicNomad HumiReader Hygrometer stands out for its versatility and fast, frequent readings. It updates humidity levels every 20 seconds, providing real-time insight into your guitar’s environment.

I appreciate the three mounting options – on the soundhole, case exterior, or as a standalone unit. The durable attachment mechanism keeps the hygrometer securely in place, regardless of positioning.

Adding to the functionality is a built-in thermometer displaying temperature in Celsius and Fahrenheit. You can also view minimum and maximum readings to understand humidity fluctuations over time.

While some users report accuracy issues, I’ve found the HumiReader’s performance to be reliable. For the price, it’s hard to beat the combination of fast response, versatile mounting, and temperature tracking in a compact package.

The ability to position the HumiReader in multiple configurations is invaluable. It provides flexibility to meet your specific monitoring needs. Durable construction also ensures this humble hygrometer will provide humidity insight for years to come.

For these reasons, I believe the MusicNomad HumiReader is the premier hygrometer for guitar cases. The adaptable design and rapid sensor make dialing in your guitar’s ideal humidity effortless.

5. Inkbird ITH-10 Humidity Monitor

• Mini Digital Humidity Thermometer
• Support °C/°F mode, and read display easily
• Record Max. and Min. values of temperature
• Multi-functional usage
• Humidity Range: 30-90% RH
• Temperature: -5° to 50°C or 23° to 140°F
• Battery Life: 6 months

The Inkbird ITH-10 hygrometer delivers accurate humidity and temperature tracking at a budget-friendly price point. It monitors relative humidity from 30% to 90%, providing a sufficient range for most guitars.

Despite the low cost, readings are reliably precise. The minimalist display clearly shows humidity and temperature in Celsius and Fahrenheit without any complicated controls. This simplicity makes operation a breeze.

While humidity response feels slightly sluggish, it’s adequate for monitoring gradual environmental changes. The slim profile also lets the ITH-10 fit conveniently into tight guitar case spaces.

For the price, the ITH-10 impresses me with its combination of accuracy, straightforward interface, compact size, and versatility. You’d expect far less functionality from such an affordable hygrometer.

If you want a no-frills humidity monitor without breaking the bank, the Inkbird ITH-10 hits the mark. It provides the core functionality most guitarists need, including easy-to-read measurements and compact portability.

Reliable performance at a bargain price makes this a hygrometer with outstanding value.

Are hygrometers accurate?

One of the biggest questions that we usually get pertains to the accuracy of hygrometers.

Generally, hygrometers are quite accurate. A margin of error of 3% is already quite decent, and anything beyond that should be bought with caution. This is to make sure that your guitar will be safely stored in a place with the recommended humidity level.

Nevertheless, some experts believe that digital hygrometers offer better accuracy than their analog counterparts. This is due to the more advanced hardware used in these digital devices.

But we have come across analog hygrometers that deliver fairly accurate readings. The only downside is that these devices need frequent hardware calibration to maintain accuracy.

So overall, yes, hygrometers are quite accurate. As a tip, make sure to look into the unit’s margin of error before you buy it to ensure the best performance.

How to test hygrometer accuracy?

If you still have doubts as to the accuracy of your device, there is an easy way to test it out. All you need is a lockable food storage bag, a bottle cap, some salt, and a little bit of water.

To start the test, simply fill the bottle cap with salt and add a little bit of water. It should only create a slurry-like substance with the salt not fully dissolved.

With the salt slurry ready, place it inside the food-storage plastic bag with the hygrometer and seal it together. Leave this for six hours.

Once the 6-hour limit is up, it’s time to check the reading on the hygrometer. If the reading is at 75%, then you know it’s calibrated to accuracy.

Another test is to wrap the hygrometer with a damp towel and leave it for around 30 minutes. Once the time’s up, quickly unwrap the towel and read what’s displayed on the hydrometer.

You should do this fast because the humidity levels will quickly drop once the towel is removed. If the hygrometer reads between 98 to 100%, then your device is pretty accurate.

As a tip, we suggest performing any of these tips at least once every six months to make sure that your hygrometer remains accurately calibrated.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best humidity level for guitars.

The humidity levels for a guitar should not drop below 40% but should not exceed 55%. When it goes lower than this range, the wood tends to become brittle and prone to cracking. On the other hand, too much humidity can soften the wood – and similarly lead to damage.

Are digital or analog hygrometers better?

It depends on your preferences. Digital hygrometers are generally more accurate and easier to read, thanks to their modern hardware and technology. They also offer multiple features such as temperature readings and a clock. However, these digital devices can come with a steep price.

On the other hand, analog hygrometers are affordable and less complicated to use. However, they are high maintenance and would require frequent recalibration to ensure accuracy.

Where does the hygrometer go in a guitar case?

It is recommended to put the hygrometer inside the guitar case compartment or in the headstock for accurate readings.

Are hygrometers only for acoustic guitars?

No, hygrometers are not only useful for acoustic guitar but also beneficial for electric guitar. Most of us only think of acoustic guitars when addressing humidity issues, but particular electric guitars are also prone to damage from high and low temperatures.

So humidity check and humidity control are also needed for some electric guitars depending on the wood quality.

How long does it take for a hygrometer to get an accurate reading?

Hygrometers usually take around two hours to stabilize their readings. These devices have to consider several factors in the air, so this time frame is enough to deliver accurate readings.

Related Articles:

• How To Humidify A Guitar The Right Way

About the Author

Fabian Zelenski

Fabian, a Brazilian guitarist now based in Dublin, Ireland, has passionately played the electric guitar since 2003. As a luthier and product specialist, he boasts nearly two decades of collaboration with top musical instrument brands. Fabian is a sought-after expert, sharing his extensive knowledge with fellow guitar enthusiasts.

• Fabian Zelenski https://guitartopreview.com/author/fabian/ The Perfect Gig Bag For Acoustic Guitar: A Must-Have In 2024
• Fabian Zelenski https://guitartopreview.com/author/fabian/ The Ultimate Guitar Storage Guide: Keeping Your Guitar In Top Shape
• Fabian Zelenski https://guitartopreview.com/author/fabian/ Hang A Guitar On The Wall: Tips And Tricks For Guitar Safety
• Fabian Zelenski https://guitartopreview.com/author/fabian/ A Beginner's Guide To Acoustic vs Electric Guitars (2024)

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CR-4 CHILLED MIRROR HYGROMETER

DATA SHEET and USERS MANUAL

The CR-4 is a chilled mirror hygrometer that uses a 3-stage thermoelectric cooler (TEC) to enable frost point measurements of as low as – 60°C, under favorable ambient conditions. Depending upon ambient temperature, it can measure dew points as high as 60°C.

CR-4 Specifications:

3 Stage TE Cooler

Dew/Frost Range: – 60 to 60°C*

95°C Depression

Resolution: 0.01°C

Accuracy: ±0.1°C

Sample Flow Rate: 0.25 to 3 liters/min

Sample Pressure: 0 to 150 psia

0 to 10v and 4-20 mA Scaleable Analog Output

RS232 Serial I/O

Dimensions: 8x10x10 inches

Power Requirement: 24vdc @ 3 amps or 110 – 240 vac @ 50 – 400Hz 9 Ah Batteries optional

*Dependent upon ambient temperature

Copyright ©2017 Buck Research Instruments, LLC All rights reserved. 1-800-HUMIDITY

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Khabarovsk: The city on the 5,000 ruble banknote

A night view of Khabarovsk, the capital of Russia's Far East. Source: Lori/Legion-Media

Located at the confluence of the Amur and Ussuri rivers, Khabarovsk (6140 kilometers from Moscow) is the second largest city in the Russian Far East after Vladivostok. Having grown from a small military post in the middle of the 19 th  century, the city got its name from the famous Russian explorer Yerofei Khabarov, who surveyed the Amur River. Currently Khabarovsk is the administrative center of the Far Eastern Federal District.

Where to go on a first date with the city

Source: Lori/Legion-Media

The city was founded by Count Nikolai Muravyov-Amursky and the main street is named in his honor. Modern buildings and shopping centers coexist with old stone houses of gray and red. A monument to this famous Russian statesman can be found in the city’s Central Park. This statue can also be seen on the 5,000-ruble banknote.

The best way to explore Khabarovsk is on foot, beginning at Lenin Square and working your way towards the banks of the Amur River. The two main boulevards, Amursky and Ussuriisky, run parallel to each other. The architecture on Lenin and Serysheva streets, with its mostly Stalin-era structures, differs from the beautiful pre-revolutionary buildings on ul. Muravieva-Amurskogo. The Amursky and Ussuriisky boulevards did not exist until the mid-1960s.

Source: Shutterstock/Legion-Media

Khabarovsk is not a typical Russian city along the Trans-Siberian Railway. The unusual fusion of Russian and Chinese cultures is felt in the food, culture and even lifestyle of its residents. Japanese touches complement this picture in the form of blossoming cherry trees and cars with steering wheels on the right hand side. That Khabarovsk has such a strong Asian influence should not seem surprising, as the city is located only 17 kilometers from the state border with China. The nearest Chinese settlement, Fuyuan, is 65 kilometers down the river from Khabarovsk.

Khabarovsk’s gem is its picturesque river embankment and the Amursky rail and road bridge, which is also depicted on the 5,000-ruble banknote. Just like the Eiffel Tower, this bridge won the gold medal of the World Exhibition in Paris in the early 20 th  century.

Khabarovsk's museums

Khabarovsk became famous during the Soviet period for a popular song about border guards that stand on the "high banks of the Amur" and protect the motherland. It is not hard to find old cannons on display in the city that were fired during the Russo-Japanese War.

At the present time Khabarovsk is the headquarters of Russia’s Far Eastern Military District.

The Military Historical Museum of the Far Eastern Military District depicts in great detail everything you ever wanted to know about the formation and development of the army in the Far East. Models of weapons from different years are exhibited over the museum’s 13 halls and heavy military equipment is placed in the courtyard of an observation deck. The museum itself is located in a historic building right on the bank of the Amur River.

The Far Eastern Art Museum, also known as the "Far East Tretyakov Gallery" features original works of ancient Russian art, as well as local artists from the Amur Region. Among the artists on display are Ivan Aivazovsky, Ivan Shishkin, Ilya Repin, Vasily Surikov, Isaak Levitan, Alexander Benois, Apollinaris Vasnetsov and Mikhail Vrubel. Many of these works of art came to the Far East from museums in Moscow and St. Petersburg.

The Khabarovsk Regional Museum holds collections of flora and fauna, ethnography exhibits of indigenous peoples and Slavic settlers, and displays by paleontologists and geologists that tell the city’s story from its foundation. The only archaeological museum in the Far East is the Okladnikov Museum, which features 120,000 ancient artifacts pertaining to the Amur Region.

For those traveling with children, Khabarovsk has special kid-friendly attractions including an aquarium featuring fresh water fish of the Amur River basin, as well as the Gaidar Amusement Park and the Khabarovsk State Circus.

Source: TASS/Alexander Savchenko

A living museum of Far Eastern flora can be found at the Khabarovsk Arboretum, established as an experimental laboratory in 1896. It has collected about 300 plant species that grow in the Ussuri taiga as well as those from the Himalayas, Central Asia and North America.

Khabarovsk is known for its parks such as Dynamo or Yuri Gagarin Park. The Central Park of Culture and Relaxation is perfect for taking leisurely strolls and leads to the river station located within the park, where you can take a boat ride on the Amur River. Especially memorable is taking a walk along the river at night, when Khabarovsk is illuminated by hundreds of colored lights. In the park there is also an observation deck that offers a spectacular view of the Amur.

The cultural center of the Far East

Source: RIA Novosti/Ruslan Krivobok

The oldest Orthodox Church in Khabarovsk is a Church of St. Innocentius  of Irkutsk, erected in 1870 in honor of the patron saint of Siberia and the Far East. The impressive Holy Transfiguration Cathedral (its height with golden domes is 95 meters), built from the donations of inhabitants of the region, is the third largest temple in Russia after Moscow's Christ the Savior Cathedral and St. Isaac's Cathedral in St. Petersburg.

Several major theaters operate in Khabarovsk, which is often called the cultural center of the Far East. These include the Khabarovsk Regional Musical Theater performing classic operetta and musical comedy, and the Regional Drama Theatre featuring international and domestic classics. There is also the Triad professional mime theater, which offers unusual performances in interesting interiors. 

Why you should climb the Khabarovsk cliff

Khabarovsk is hot and humid in the summer with temperatures reaching 30 C and cold and dry in the winter with the average temperature being -24 C. However, the temperatures often drop below -30, making Khabarovsk the coldest city with a population of 500,000 or more in the world. There are massive ice sculptures on Lenin Square from January until the spring thaw in April as part of the annual Amur Crystal and Ice Fantasy festivals. City Day, celebrated on the last Saturday of May, is a good reason to visit Khabarovsk at the beginning of summer.

No matter the season, if it is clear, then climb the Khabarovsk cliff (ul. Shevchenko 15), a true symbol of the city. A famous building was constructed here on a rocky promontory 70 years ago by an architect named Starikov. At first it was a station for military observation, later becoming a rescue station. After the building was transferred to Khabarovsk Central Park of Culture and Recreation, a viewing platform was added that now offers the best panoramic views of the Amur River. Take a selfie here with a view of the Amur River at the monument to Count Muravyov-Amursky.

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Russian Far East: top 10 experiences

Aug 10, 2018 • 6 min read

The limestone Lena Pillars are a popular cruise trip from Yakutsk © Vicky Ivanova / Shutterstock

The Russian Far East has a mystique that’s been luring travellers for generations. With the volcanoes and geysers of Kamchatka, ancient stone pillars on the Lena River and some of the world’s coldest and remotest human settlements, as well as the cosmopolitan cities of Vladivostok and Khabarovsk, the region has something for everyone. Russia’s poignant past is present here too, from the BAM (Baikal-Amur Mainline) railway to the infamous Kolyma Highway that runs to Magadan, the most notorious outpost of the Far Eastern Gulag system.

Vladivostok

The ‘Master of the East’, a hip, dynamic city with an impressive setting in the Golden Horn Bay, Vladivostok is the unofficial capital of the Russian Far East and a cultural heavyweight in its own right. St Petersburg’s renowned Mariinsky Theatre has inaugurated the Primorsky Stage in the city in recent years, joining the new Hermitage Vladivostok branch and the stellar Zarya Centre for Contemporary Art as the city’s premier cultural attractions. Meanwhile, the S-56 Submarine , Fort No 7 and the Vladivostok Fortress Museum pay homage to the city’s background as Russia’s most important eastern naval base. Vladivostok’s dining scene is second only to Moscow and St Petersburg, and numerous cocktail bars and pubs attract night owls. If the frenetic pace is a little overwhelming, you can always escape to the beaches on Russky Island and Popov Island .

Right in the heart of the legendary Kamchatka peninsula, the little town of Esso is the jumping-off spot for some terrific hiking, soaking in the istochniki (hot springs) and rafting on the nearby Bystraya River. Charming  izbas (wooden cottages) sit in a pine-scented valley, surrounded by forested mountains. A well-marked network of hiking trails threads its way through the surrounding Bystrinsky Nature Park, ranging in difficulty and in length – the shortest is 2km, the longest 42km.

Valley of Geysers, Kamchatka

Accessible only by a helicopter tour from Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky, the smoking Dolina Geyzerov is the star attraction of  Kamchatka – the volcano- and geyser-studded peninsula that has the most dramatic, volatile topography in all of Russia. This 8km-long valley, bisected by the Geysernaya River, is dotted with several dozen geysers that sporadically blast steam, mud and water towards the sky. Some of the more colourful ones can be admired while strolling along a specially made boardwalk.

The remote capital of the Sakha Republic, Yakutsk is both the world’s coldest city and a marvel of Soviet engineering, built entirely on permafrost. Its tangle of overground pipes, carrying water and gas, is a peculiar sight, but Yakutsk is a surprisingly cosmopolitan place despite its isolation. A visit to the quirky  Permafrost Kingdom is particularly worthwhile, with its never-melting sculptures of pagan gods and mythological characters, while the National Art Museum introduces you to the mammoth tusk carvings and paintings by Sakha artists. The best places to try Sakha delicacies such as indigirka (raw, frozen fish), reindeer and zherebyatiny (colt fillet) are Chochur Muran and Makhtal restaurants.

Riding the BAM railway

Stretching for some 4324km from Severobaikalsk (on the northern shores of Lake Baikal) to the Sea of Okhotsk, the BAM (Baikal-Amur Mainline) is a triumph of railway engineering (and convict labour) and the less-taken alternative to the Trans-Siberian Railway. With its bridges spanning the mighty Lena and Amur rivers, its tunnels blasted through kilometres of sheer rock, and its tracks running through dense spruce forest and taiga, riding the BAM is a wonderful way to get to know ordinary Russians. You might find yourself sharing a beer or hot tea and heaped spoons of caviar with miners or lumberjacks, who’ll be intensely curious about you. It’s worth disembarking in Tynda, where travel writer Dervla Murphy got stuck while writing Through Siberia by Accident, to visit the BAM Museum, and in Komsomolsk-na-Amure, to check out the grand Soviet-era mosaics and the riverside beach.

Some 650km east of Yakutsk, the tiny reindeer and silver fox breeding station of Oymyakon (population around 500) is the coldest permanently inhabited place on Earth, with temperatures in the nearby valleys dropping as low as -82°C. Various travel agencies in Yakutsk, including Visit Yakutia , organise week-long tours to Oymyakon to attend the annual Pole of Cold Festival in late March, featuring reindeer races, outdoor concerts and other festivities.

Whether you come here in winter for the ice sculptures, or in summer for the lively nightlife and the Amur River beach, Khabarovsk is a breath of fresh air, especially if you’ve spent days cooped up on the train before getting here. Its wide boulevards are lined with stately, tsarist-era buildings (spot the Far Eastern State Research Library and the Tsentralny Gastronom), and there are numerous green walkways for strolling around the city, including those on Amursky bul and Ussuriysky bul. The burgeoning dining scene’s highlights are Georgian cuisine at Satsivi  and fusion at Farsh ; some good bars are dotted around the city centre, including the hipster Brozbar , with a good range of craft beer.

Magadan and Kolyma Highway

Surrounded by snow-capped mountains and hemmed in by the Sea of Okhotsk, Magadan is a surprisingly pleasant city, given its dark past. Described as the ‘pole of cold and cruelty’ in Solzhenitsyn’s Gulag Archipelago, it was the most notorious of the Stalinist forced labour camps from the 1930s to mid-1950s. The harsh sub-Arctic climate and dreadful work conditions are believed to have killed over a million prisoners in the Kolyma region, commemorated by the giant Mask of Sorrow monument on a hillside above Magadan, as well as at the Magadan Regional Museum . You can get here by air, or via the Russian Far East’s most ambitious road trip – a three- or four-day journey from Yakutsk by 6WD vehicle or truck along the Kolyma Highway, aka the ‘road of bones’, built on the backs of countless Gulag labourers.

Lena Pillars

The Russian Far East’s most popular cruise is the two-day jaunt from Yakutsk to the Lenskie Stolby (Lena Pillars) along the mighty Lena River. Resembling a petrified forest, the 80km-long, 35-million-year-old limestone pillars reach for the sky along the riverbank – a startling sight after you’ve spent many hours floating through impenetrable spruce forest. Lena Tur Flot  runs 36- and 46-hour cruises here aboard its two comfy cruise ships; you’ll even get to see a shaman ceremony.

Blagoveshchensk

A remote Russian outpost since 1644, this frontier town faces its rather more modern Chinese neighbour, Heihe, across the Amur River. However, it’s worth making the detour 110km south of the main Trans-Siberian Railway line to Blagoveshchensk to check out the charming tsarist-era architecture that dots the town centre; another highlight is the extensive  Amur Regional Museum . Blagoveshchensk is also one of the easiest places in Russia from which to enter China (though you’ll need to organise your visa in advance).

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