Reference Thermometer Market - Size, Share, Industry Trends, and Forecasts (2025-2032)

By Type:

Based on type, the market is categorized into handheld and desktop.

Trends in the Type:

• Desktop devices are primarily used in scientific research and calibration due to their high accuracy and precision.
• Advancements in sensor technology, measurement techniques, and communication capabilities are leading to more accurate and efficient handheld devices.

Handheld accounted for the largest revenue share in 2024 and is expected to register the highest CAGR over the forecast period

• Manufacturers are incorporating features like data logging, wireless connectivity (Bluetooth, Wi-Fi), and user-friendly interfaces to improve the functionality and ease of use of handheld devices.
• Many handheld thermometers are designed to withstand harsh environments, including extreme temperatures, humidity, and vibrations, suitable for industrial applications.
• Moreover, the growing trend towards integration of advanced technologies including current reversal that eliminates thermal EMFs, for precision temperature measurements is also boosting the reference thermometer market trend.
• For instance, Fluke Corporation launched 1524 Handheld Thermometer which has two channels for simultaneous measurements, doubling productivity. For precise temperature measurements, the 1524 employs current reversal, a sophisticated technique commonly found in high-performance instruments, to mitigate the influence of thermal EMFs.
• Thus, as per the analysis, the aforementioned factors are driving the handheld reference thermometer market size.

By Product Type:

Based on the product type, the market is segmented into Platinum Resistance Thermometers (PRTs), Thermocouples, and Liquid-in-Glass Thermometers.

Trends in Product Type:

• Platinum Resistance Thermometers (PRTs) are considered the most accurate temperature sensors used in metrology and are also used as standard instruments in the realization and dissemination of the International Temperature Scale.
• Thermocouples are made of two different metals, and the temperature at the measuring point causes the charges in the wires to shift differently, resulting in an electrical voltage that can be measured.

Platinum Resistance Thermometers (PRTs) segment accounted for the largest revenue share of 57.5% in 2024

• PRTs capable of measuring extremely high temperatures (up to 1000°C and beyond) are being developed for specialized industrial applications, thus driving the reference thermometer market trend.
• PRTs designed for extremely low-temperature measurements are also being refined for applications in research and scientific fields.
• PRTs with built-in signal conditioning and digital interfaces are becoming more common, enabling easier integration with digital systems and microcontrollers.
• Further, platinum resistance thermometers support a wide range of temperatures, and its internal design minimizes drift, ensuring long-term stability and accuracy.
• For instance, Tempsens Instruments (I) Pvt. Ltd. SSPRT Semi Standard Platinum Resistance Thermometer. This is a specialized PRT designed for high-precision temperature measurement and calibration, often used in laboratories and calibration facilities. It can operate over a wide temperature range, typically from -200°C to 670°C, making it versatile for various applications.
• Therefore, the aforementioned benefits offered by Platinum Resistance Thermometers (PRTs) are bolstering the reference thermometer market size.

Thermocouples are projected to witness the fastest growth during the upcoming years

• There's a growing demand for smaller thermocouples for applications where space is limited, such as in microelectronics, medical devices, and advanced manufacturing processes.
• Integrating signal conditioning and digital interfaces directly into the thermocouple assembly allows for easier data acquisition and communication with digital systems.
• Combining microprocessors with thermocouples allows for on-board diagnostics, self-calibration, and data analysis, improving reliability and efficiency.
• Additionally, long battery life, and a durable, easy-to-handle design of thermocouples are also boosting market trend.
• For instance, GHM GROUP Greisinger released the G 1200, a new professional thermocouple quick response thermometer designed for versatility and affordability. Its key selling points include compatibility with a variety of interchangeable probes for diverse measurement needs, a competitive price, long battery life, and a durable, easy-to-handle design.
• In conclusion, the above-mentioned factors are predicted to drive thermocouples segment in reference thermometer market industry.

By Application:

Based on the application, the market is segmented into laboratories, metrology, environmental monitoring, chemical manufacturing, food processing, medical, and others.

Trends in the Application:

• Metrology laboratories use these thermometers to calibrate and certify other temperature measurement devices, maintaining the accuracy and reliability of temperature measurements in various applications.
• Weather stations utilize such thermometers to measure air and ground temperatures, contributing to weather forecasting and climate monitoring.

Chemical Manufacturing accounted for the largest revenue share in the year 2024

• Chemical manufacturing requires extremely precise temperature control for reactions, distillation, and other processes. Reference thermometers are crucial for ensuring product quality and consistency, as small temperature variations can significantly impact the final product.
• Many chemical processes involve hazardous materials and extreme temperatures. Accurate temperature monitoring is essential for preventing accidents and ensuring workers’ safety and these thermometers provide reliable readings in these challenging environments.
• Chemical plants are large-scale operations with numerous temperature-sensitive processes, resulting in a high demand for reference thermometers for monitoring and control, thus driving reference thermometer industry demand.
• For instance, according to India Brand Equity Foundation, the total production of major chemicals has seen a substantial increase, going from 10,234 metric tonnes in 2016-17 to 11,243 metric tonnes in 2020-21, with alkali chemicals dominating production. Additionally, the Indian chemical industry, valued at approximately USD 178 billion in FY20, is projected to reach USD 300 billion by FY25, indicating a strong progress trajectory.
• Therefore, the aforementioned factors are contributing significantly in accelerating the reference thermometer market demand in chemical sector.

Medical is predicted to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period

• Medical thermometers, including digital, tympanic (ear), and temporal artery thermometers, need periodic calibration to maintain their accuracy and these thermometers are used in these calibration processes.
• The growing trend of utilizing such thermometers in monitoring subtle temperature changes in patients, which can be critical in diagnosing and managing various medical conditions.
• Hospitals and clinics use reference thermometers to regularly check the accuracy of temperature-measuring devices. This helps maintain high standards of patient care and safety.
• These thermometers are also used to validate the performance of temperature-controlled medical equipment, such as incubators and refrigerators, ensuring they function correctly.
• Subsequently, such thermometers are indispensable tools in medical applications, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of temperature measurements.