Kitchen Tools: When to Save, When to Splurge

Instant-Read Thermometers

This is an important tool for cooks of all levels of experience to have: No one wants to overcook a beautiful piece of steak. There are differences between the $6 version and the $96 model—silicone materials, bright colors, the ability to fold up—but the most significant difference really comes down to about 57 seconds: The pricey one will give you a readout in three seconds, while it can take up to a minute for the temperature to register on a cheaper model. If you're okay with that, save your $90 for some really nice rib eyes. (And calibrate your thermometer periodically.)