Quotes

Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it.Henry David Thoreau

5 Best Handheld Anemometers


Most recommended
Kestrel Pocket Wind And Temperature Meter
  • Brand Kestrel
  • Material Plastic
  • 0.05 Pounds
A good choice too
Extech AN100 CFM/CMM Mini Thermo
  • Brand: Extech
  • Item Weight 1.61 pounds
  • 2.9 x 1.3 x 7 inches
A good choice too
Digital Anemometer HOLDPEAK 846A Wind
  • Brand HOLDPEAK
  • 6.5 x 3.35 x 1.34 inches
  • 320 Grams
Kestrel 3500 Weather Meter
  • Brand Kestrel
  • 2 x 5 x 3 inches
  • LCD
Testo 410-2 Digital Pocket Vane Anemometer
  • Brand Testo
  • Material ABS
  • 5.24 x 0.98 x 1.81 inches

Choose the Best Handheld Anemometer

Customer’s Choice: the Best Rated Handheld Anemometers

46 users answered this survey. Please help us improve this review!

47.83% of users selected Kestrel Pocket Wind And Temperature Meter, 32.61% selected Extech AN100 CFM/CMM Mini Thermo, 4.35% selected Digital Anemometer HOLDPEAK 846A Wind, 8.70% selected Kestrel 3500 Weather Meter and 6.52% selected Testo 410-2 Digital Pocket Vane Anemometer. Every month we analyze your answers and change our rating.

We’re always on the lookout for new ways to measure wind speed. One of the best options out there is a handheld anemometer, which is perfect for measuring how strong winds are outside or in your home without needing to go outside. We’ve compiled a list of some of the top-rated handheld anemometers available today so you can find one that best suits your needs.

Kestrel 2000

The Kestrel 2000 is the perfect tool for anyone looking for an accurate and reliable handheld wind meter.

With its large, replaceable impeller and responsive temperature sensor, it can measure and display maximum, current, and average wind speed, wind chill, and air/snow/water temperature. Plus, it’s waterproof (IP-67), floats, and comes with a 5-year warranty. So whether you’re using it in research, education, snow sports, kiteboarding, or agricultural spraying – the Kestrel 2000 has you covered.

Pros
  • Replaceable impeller
  • Waterproof
  • Drop-tested
  • Floats
  • Accurate

Cons
  • Offers not so many measurements


Extech AN100 CFM/CMM Mini Thermo-Anemometer

The Extech AN100 measures airflow and velocity with pinpoint accuracy, making it the perfect tool for HVAC professionals and home improvement enthusiasts alike.

With a large display that shows both the airflow or air velocity as well as the ambient temperature, it’s easy to get a comprehensive reading of your indoor environment. And thanks to its intuitive design, you can quickly and easily enter the dimensions of the area you’re measuring for maximum accuracy. Armed with a 20 point average and ±3 percent velocity accuracy, this meter is an essential tool for anyone interested in air quality.

Pros
  • Easy to set area dimensions
  • Accurate readings
  • Data Hold and MIN/MAX functions
  • Incredible Versatility
  • Improved Functionality

Cons
  • It will not work without a battery
  • Not the cheapest option


HVAC Anemometer HOLDPEAK 846A

The HVAC HOLDPEAK 846A is the perfect tool for measuring wind speeds. Whether you’re a construction worker, weather enthusiast, or just need to measure the wind for a project, this handheld meter has everything you need.

It boasts an accuracy of 0.1m/s, and a range of 0.3 m/s~45 m/s. You can choose between Fahrenheit and Celsius readings, and the backlight makes it easy to see in any lighting condition. The data hold feature saves your readings even after the meter turns off, and the low battery indicator lets you know when it’s time to recharge. The extendable wind handle means you can measure wind speeds from up to 2 meters away, and the 2 years of warranty give you peace of mind.

Pros
  • High Accuracy
  • Fahrenheit and Celsius readings
  • Data Hold
  • Comes with a protective case
  • 2-year warranty

Cons
  • Requires batteries that can be bought separately
  • A bit heavy


Kestrel 3500

The Kestrel 3500 weather meter is perfect for athletes, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone who needs to stay safe and comfortable in any kind of weather.

It measures barometric pressure and trend, altitude, wet bulb temperature, relative humidity, heat stress index, dew point temperature, wind chill, water/air/snow temperature, maximum/current/average wind speeds on the large LCD screen that is easy to read. It also features a night-vision-preserving backlight.

Pros
  • Durable
  • Accurate
  • Measures up to 15 different environmental factors
  • Waterproof and tested

Cons
  • Pricey for a weather meter


Testo 410-2

The Testo 410-2 vane anemometer is perfect for measuring air velocity, air temperature, humidity, and more!

With a Hold function to freeze readings on the display, maximum and minimum functions to track the highest and lowest readings since powering on and a timed mean function to average readings over time, this meter is packed with features! Plus, it includes a calibration certificate for added assurance of accuracy. The LCD shows air velocity and temperature measurements simultaneously so you can get an accurate reading quickly and easily. And thanks to its backlight, you’ll be able to use it in low-light settings too.

Pros
  • Compact
  • Accurate
  • Backlight
  • Includes a calibration certificate

Cons
  • More expensive than some other options


Buyer’s Guide

What is an anemometer used for?

An anemometer is a device that measures wind speed. An anemometer is usually a small, handheld device with a spinning wheel or cups. The faster the wheel or cups spin, the higher the wind speed. Some anemometers also have cups that face sideways. The faster the wind blows, the more sideways force it puts on the anemometer’s cups or wheel.

People use anemometers for many things such as:

-forecasting the weather – anemometers help meteorologists predict the weather by measuring wind speed and other factors;
-sailing – sailors use anemometers to measure wind direction and speed so they can adjust their sails accordingly;
-aviation – pilots use anemometers to measure airspeed, which is important for takeoff and landing;
-climate research – scientists use anemometers to measure wind speed in different types of weather conditions;
-studying wind patterns – anemometers can help researchers understand how wind moves and where it travels;
-land management – anemometers can help people who manage land decide when to plant crops or harvest trees.

These are just some examples. There are many more reasons to use anemometers!

Benefits of Handheld Anemometers

Benefits of Handheld Anemometers

There are a lot of benefits associated with using handheld anemometers and I will go over some of them now.

  • Portability: Handheld anemometers are small and lightweight, making them easy to carry around. This makes them perfect for use in fieldwork or other on-the-go applications.
  • Resolution: Handheld anemometers give accurate and precise measurements in various units, including kilometers per hour (km/h), miles per hour (mph), meters per second (m/s), and more.
  • Ease of Use: Most handheld anemometers are very easy to use, with few buttons and a clear display. This makes them ideal for those who are new to using a speed measuring device.
  • Accuracy: Handheld anemometers are some of the most accurate speed measuring devices available. They can provide very precise readings, making them ideal for scientific or engineering applications.
  • Installation Options: Handheld anemometers can be used in a variety of settings, including wind tunnels and other research facilities. They can also be installed in vehicles for real-time speed measurements.
  • Power Options: Handheld anemometers can either be battery-powered or plugged into a wall outlet, depending on your preference and the job at hand. This makes them extremely versatile when it comes time to choose what kind of tool you want to work with.
  • Price: Handheld anemometers are typically more affordable than their larger counterparts, making them a great option for those on a budget.

So, as you can see, there are many benefits to using handheld anemometers. All of the benefits mentioned above make handheld anemometers a great choice for those in need of accurate and convenient speed measurements. If you’re in need of a quality speed measuring device, be sure to check out the offerings from handheld anemometer manufacturers.

Types of Anemometers

There are many different kinds of anemometers, but the four most common types are:

  • Hot-wire – Hot-wire anemometers are the most common type. They work by heating a wire and measuring the change in temperature of the air as it flows past the wire. Hot-wire anemometers are very accurate, but they can be affected by the temperature of the air. In addition, they are fragile and can be easily damaged.
  • Cup – Cup anemometers work by measuring the force exerted on a cup as it is blown around by the wind. They are not as accurate as hot-wire anemometers, but they are less sensitive to changes in temperature. Moreover, they are more durable than hot-wire anemometers.
  • Vane – Vane anemometers work by measuring the force exerted on a small piece of metal as it is blown around in the wind. They are cheap, but not accurate because wind speeds vary at different heights above ground level and vane anemometers only read speed at one height (typically about three meters). One more thing to consider is that they are very fragile.
  • Sonic – Sonic anemometers measure airflow using sound waves—the same way that sonar works to detect objects underwater. Like hot-wire anemometers, sonic devices can be affected by temperature. However, they tend to be more expensive than other types of handheld weather stations. In addition, wind speed readings can vary based on the orientation of the device.
  • The type of anemometer you choose will depend on your needs. If you need a portable device, then a sonic or vane anemometer is the best choice. If you need a device that can measure high winds, then a hot-wire anemometer is the best option. Cup anemometers are not as accurate as of the other types of anemometers, but they are less expensive and more durable.

No matter which type of anemometer you choose, make sure to calibrate it before use. This ensures that the readings are accurate and consistent.

How to Choose the Best Handheld Anemometer

How to Choose the Best Handheld Anemometer
Handheld anemometers are handy tools that can be used to measure wind speed. These devices are lightweight, easy to use, affordable, and come in many different styles. When choosing the best handheld anemometer, there are several factors that you must consider to ensure it is compatible with your needs and preferences.

Accuracy

The very first thing to look for when purchasing an anemometer is accuracy. It doesn’t matter how good it looks or how many features it has if you are not getting accurate readings then there really isn’t any point in even having one. A handheld anemometer with a gauge face of about 15cm would be ideal as this size will give you a good reading without being too small or difficult to read.

There are also digital anemometers that tend to be more accurate than analog ones. They usually come with a certificate of calibration which means that you can be sure that the readings are correct. However, they do cost a bit more money so if you don’t need the extra accuracy then an analog anemometer should suffice.

Accuracy also depends on where you plan to use the device. For example, if you are measuring airflow in a laboratory then accuracy is extremely important as any discrepancies can have significant effects on experiments. However, for personal use or general home purposes then it doesn’t need to be that accurate and so analog anemometers would suffice just fine.

One more thing that affects the accuracy of readings is the type of anemometer. Of these, the hot wire type is the most accurate but they can be quite expensive so if you are on a budget then a vane or sonic anemometer would be more suitable.

Remember that the more accurate the anemometer, the higher the price so it is important to decide what you need before making a purchase.

Ease of Use

The second thing you’ll want to look for is how easy the anemometer is to use. Some models have a lot of extra features that can be confusing, while others are very simple and straightforward. Look at what other users have to say about the model, including if they had any problems or issues.

You’ll also want an easy-to-read display so you can tell exactly how fast your wind speed is – after all, it’s not much use knowing that there are strong winds outside if you don’t know how fast those breezes are. There are also displays that offer you a backlight for easy reading in low-light conditions.

It is good if you can adjust the settings for your own comfort. Some models allow you to switch between miles per hour (mph) and kilometers per hour (km/h), while others will let you set the wind speed units in either metric or imperial measurements, depending on what works best for you.

One of the most common complaints is models that are difficult to calibrate – if it’s hard for you to set up then you’ll have a much harder time figuring out how fast or slow your wind speeds are. Look for an instrument that has clear instructions on calibration so that measuring the wind is as easy as possible.

Ease of use also depends on how lightweight and compact the model is. You’ll be using it a lot, so you don’t want something too bulky or heavy that’s going to strain your wrist when extended with one hand. Weight affects the ease of use because the more weight you have, the harder it is to hold up for longer periods.

There are also rubberized grips on some models to make it easier for you to hold onto them.
You’ll want the best handheld anemometer that is easy to use, has a clear display, and can be calibrated easily. This will help ensure that your measurements are as accurate as possible so you don’t have to worry about making big mistakes with your weather data because of poor instrumentation.

Adjustability

The next thing to check is the adjustability of your anemometer. Do you want a basic model that’s only able to measure wind speeds between 0 and 30 mph, or would you prefer something with more options? Some models have adjustable settings so they can be customized for different situations or needs. This could come in handy if our device isn’t as accurate as it should be at certain times. It might also help us get faster results which save time and effort when we’re working outside!

There are also digital anemometers that have a lot more functions and readings that can be taken than the standard models. If you’re looking for something to give you all the data possible on wind speeds, then a digital handheld anemometer would be your best bet! Along with displaying current wind speed, they often keep track of maximum and average wind speeds, temperature, and even humidity!

A handheld weather instrument allows anyone who works outdoors to stay safe during their jobs by monitoring conditions around them. When using this tool, people should consider design features such as ease-of-use, accuracy level, adjustment capabilities, and convenience factors like storage and battery life.

In addition to the factors mentioned above, it’s also important to consider how well a handheld anemometer can handle wind speeds. Some devices will measure high wind gusts while others only cover low-speed measurements with accuracy levels in between these two options. Depending on your job requirements and preferences for certain conditions, you might want something that has more adjustable settings than simply 0-30 mph.

Digital or Analogue

Digital or Analogue
Nowadays, many people are using digital anemometers. These are easy to use and give very accurate results. However, analog anemometers can be just as accurate if you know how to use them properly.

Analog anemometers usually have a vane or propeller that is spun by the wind. The faster it spins, the higher the wind speed. The more often the vane spins around, the faster is the resulting average wind speed. In order to get a very accurate result, you need to take enough measurements and divide them by how many times it took for your anemometer’s propeller to spin all of those times (i.e., if it takes 60 seconds for the propeller to spin five times, you will get an average wind speed of 12 seconds per rotation).

The main disadvantage of these anemometers, however, is that they are quite bulky and you cannot measure wind speed if your hand is not strong enough to keep them spinning.

If the wind stops, it will take around one minute for the propeller to spin fast enough again so that you can get a result even with smaller winds (i.e., 0-11 mph).

Digital anemometers do not require any calculation and give very accurate results. However, they tend to be a bit more expensive than analog ones. A digital anemometer can also represent different measurements such as temperature, humidity, and so on (for example Kestrel 3500). Moreover, some digital anemometers have a backlight which makes it easier to read the measurements at night or in low-light conditions. While there are many types of digital anemometers out there that vary in price range according to their features, it is essential to keep in mind that accuracy is what matters most!

Digital anemometers usually have a small wind vane and sensor that is plugged into your smartphone or laptop. These are very accurate and can measure wind speeds as low as 0.01 mph. However, these devices can be quite expensive, especially if you need to buy the corresponding app or software.

The main downside of using a digital anemometer is that it can be easily damaged if you drop them on the ground. In addition, they need batteries or charging and this might not be always possible (especially when camping or hiking).

Analog anemometers are less expensive than digital ones, are more durable, and do not require any batteries. However, they might require some calculation in order to get accurate results.

Which one should you choose? It depends on your needs! If you want accuracy and don’t mind spending a bit more money than on a digital anemometer. If you want something that is easy to use, do not mind a bit of calculation, and don’t care about accuracy as much then an analog one might be the best option for you.

Construction and Size

The next important factor to consider is the construction of a handheld anemometer. The more durable and well-constructed it is, the better chance you have of it lasting longer without any problems. Material is also important to look at, as you want a handheld anemometer that can withstand the weather and elements.

Usually, handheld anemometers are constructed of hard plastic or metal. A durable, well-constructed device will have a sturdy handle that is not flimsy and made with strong material. The housing should be weatherproofed to keep it from rusting if you’ll be taking it outside often, as well as the buttons on the face of the device.

Additionally, it is important that the handheld anemometer is of a comfortable size so you can hold it easily in your hand.

As for size, you’ll want to find something that isn’t too bulky or heavy in your hands. This is especially important if you’ll be using it frequently and for long periods of time. Usually, the smaller and lighter models are the more portable ones.

Some handheld anemometers are larger and heavier than others, so it is important to find one that is not too bulky or difficult to handle. Additionally, if you plan on using your handheld anemometer outdoors, you’ll want to find one that is highly durable and weather resistant.

Manufacturers often provide the weight of each handheld anemometer in order for customers to compare them more effectively when it comes time to make a purchase. Additionally, they typically specify if the product is suitable for outdoor use or not. They also detail whether or not it requires batteries and if the product is water-resistant.

Connectivity

One more thing to be considered when purchasing a handheld anemometer is its connectivity. It means how the device would be able to connect with other devices.

Some handheld anemometers have Bluetooth connectivity, which would allow you to connect them with your smartphone or tablet and view real-time readings. Some models have the ability to connect to a computer or other device for data transfer, while others do not. If this feature is important to you, then make sure to check what type of connectivity the device has before purchasing it.

Some handheld anemometers also have the ability to connect to a weather station. This would give you even more accurate readings than what you would get with just the handheld anemometer alone. If this is something that you are interested in, then make sure to check and see if the model you are looking at has this capability.

Additionally, some handheld anemometers come with software that allows you to more easily analyze and record data. If you are planning to do this type of analysis, be sure that the anemometer you choose has compatible software, or else it will not be very useful for your needs.

Connectivity also includes a data cable. This would allow you to connect the handheld anemometer directly to your computer or another device for more accurate readings, as well as transferring of data.

If there is no wireless connectivity and/or if it does not have a software package included with it, this means that you will need to do all analysis yourself by hand. This can be a lot of work, especially if you are looking to do an extensive analysis of the data.

So, when looking for a handheld anemometer, make sure to consider its various connectivity features and see if they meet your needs.

Durability and Warranty

The next most important feature to look at is the durability and warranty of your handheld anemometer. If it breaks, who will help you get a replacement? Will they provide shipping for free or do you have to pay extra? Be sure to ask these questions before purchasing.

Most handheld anemometers have a warranty of at least one year, but some go up to five years. It’s important that you find one with a long enough warranty in case something goes wrong.

Is there technical support? You don’t want to be stuck with an unresponsive handheld anemometer that doesn’t work properly because the manufacturer does not provide good customer service. Additionally, be sure to look for a durable model that will last through many uses.

Durability depends on such factors as the type of material used, how well it’s sealed against water and dust, and how strong the casing is. You don’t want to have to replace your anemometer every year because it’s not durable enough.

The sealing against water and dust is especially important if you plan on using your anemometer in outdoor conditions. You don’t want it to get wet or filled with dust, as this could damage the inner workings and render it useless.

The casing can also be a factor in water and dust protection. If you’re often outdoors or near water, you’ll want to find an anemometer that is waterproof and can withstand splashes. Dust can also damage your anemometer over time, so look for one with good dust protection as well. The casing should also be strong enough to withstand accidental drops and bumps. No one wants a broken anemometer, so be sure to choose one that is durable.

Is it water-resistant? It is an important feature if you are looking for a handheld anemometer because you will be using it outdoors. If it falls in water by accident, the anemometer will still work. You can find this information in the product description and user’s manual.

Usually, anemometers last for years, but sometimes problems can occur. This is why it’s important to look for a model that has at least one year warranty and supports easy repairs or replacements if necessary.

Functionality

Functionality
Another thing to consider is the features of a handheld anemometer. This includes both standard and special features that you might need for your application. Some handheld anemometers include the following:
– wind speed readout in miles per hour or kilometers per hour
– temperature and humidity readouts
– windchill factor
– direction of the wind (in degrees)
– max/min memory for recording maximum and minimum readings throughout a day or over a series of days.
– Data Hold function
– built-in clock/alarm, which can be handy for taking measurements at specific times
– water-resistance
– built-in memory
– LCD display with backlight

These are just some of the features that you might find on a handheld anemometer. Make sure to select one that has the features you need for your specific application.

Wind speed is measured in miles per hour or kilometers per hour. Temperature and humidity can also be read with many devices. Some have LCD displays with backlight which can come in handy when measuring at night or in low-light conditions. Built-in memory is also a common feature, which allows users to store data points for later download onto a computer. This can be especially helpful if you need to keep track of multiple readings over time.

If you need to measure the wind speed of high elevations, you will need to find a handheld anemometer that is specifically designed for measuring at higher altitudes.
This includes barometers and other devices which are built with special sensors to accurately measure atmospheric pressure even in very low-pressure conditions.

For example, do you want one with multiple sensors? Do you need it to be waterproof or dustproof? Some have advanced wireless technology while others are made from high-quality materials like aluminum alloy. These factors can make a big difference when it comes to price and usability.

So, how do you decide which handheld anemometer is best for you? The answer lies in understanding your specific needs. Once you know what you need, finding the right tool will be much easier.

Tips

Here are some tips to help you find the best handheld anemometer.

– Remember that this equipment is not only for commercial use; it can be used for personal weather tracking and forecasting as well.

– Check the accuracy level of the device you want to purchase.

– Look at different brands and models in order to find one that can meet your requirements with regard to measurement types, portability options, etc.

– Remember that you should only invest in a handheld anemometer if it is both accurate and easy to use for day-to-day work.

– Make sure the anemometer is easy to use. You don’t want a complicated piece of equipment that will take you longer to learn how to use than it would be worth.

– Choose an anemometer that is durable and can withstand outdoor weather conditions.

– Look for an anemometer that offers a wide range of measurement types. This will give you more flexibility in terms of what you can use the device for.

– Consider how portable the anemometer is before making your purchase. If you need something that is lightweight and easy to carry with you, make sure to look for those features specifically.

– Price is always a consideration, but don’t forget to balance that against the other factors mentioned here. You don’t want to buy an anemometer that is inaccurate or difficult to use just because it is the cheapest option.

– You should also consider how many measurements you need or want your portable weather station to provide you with before choosing a product. A wind meter may not be enough if you are needing accurate temperature, humidity, atmospheric pressure data as well.

– Make sure the anemometer is calibrated correctly and has been tested for accuracy.

– Compare prices before making a purchase to get the best deal.

– Read online reviews to see what others have had to say about the anemometers they’ve used.


FAQ

How accurate are anemometers?

Anemometers are typically accurate to 0.05 meters per second (m/s).

How to calibrate an anemometer?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as calibration procedures may vary depending on the anemometer model. However, many anemometers can be calibrated by adjusting the wind speed reading to match a known value.

How do I use an anemometer?

Again, procedures may vary depending on the model, but most anemometers can be held in one hand and rotated so that the wind vane points into the wind. The reading is then taken from the display screen.

What type of anemometer is the most accurate?

The most accurate type of anemometer is a hot-wire anemometer.

What is the vane anemometer popularly known as?

The vane anemometer is popularly known as a windmill.

Useful Video: Best Anemometers in 2021

Final Thoughts

There are a number of factors to think about when looking for the best handheld anemometer. These include durability, accuracy, and ease of use, among other things.

Generally speaking though, we would recommend that you choose either one of our top two models – depending on your budget! And if you’re still unsure as to which handheld anemometer is best for you, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team of experts. We would be more than happy to help!

Now you know what to look for in a handheld anemometer, it’s time to choose the best one for your needs. Go on, you won’t regret it!

We hope that this article has been helpful in giving you a better understanding of the different types of handheld anemometers on the market today. Stay safe and stay cool!