This summer has been exceptionally hot, and while jumping into a refreshing pool is certainly tempting, nobody likes diving into freezing water. If you want to truly enjoy your pool or hot tub, the details matter, which is why you need a pool thermometer - it delivers accurate water temperature readings so that you can decide when to take a dip.

I’ve been using the INKBIRD IBS-P02R for quite a while, so when I heard about their new model, IBS-P05R, I couldn’t wait to get my hands on it. Even though the old thermometer still works well, there’s something exciting about new gadgets. And after a month with the IBS-P05R, I can honestly say it has exceeded my expectations. If you’re looking for the best pool thermometer or are hesitant about whether to buy this new model, be sure to check out my honest review of the IBS-P05R first.

INKBIRD IBS-P05R Overview

After using the IBS-P05R for a month, I’d rate it a solid 9.5 out of 10. Here are the detailed scores.

What I Like:

• Solar-powered, plus long backup battery life, virtually maintenance-free
• Adjustable mood lighting that automatically turns on and off based on light conditions
• IP68 rugged construction with silicone ring
• Wireless range of 980 feet and can connect up to 9 pool thermometers at once

What I Dislike:

• The indoor monitor doesn’t monitor indoor temperature and humidity like previous models
• It lacks Bluetooth and Wi-Fi connectivity for mobile phone integration

Unboxing & First Impressions: 9.5/10

Upon receiving the INKBIRD IBS-P05R, the packaging immediately conveys a sense of quality. The box contained a pool thermometer, an indoor controller, a small lanyard for the sensor, two AAA batteries, and an instruction manual.

My first impressions of the units themselves are positive. The sensor feels solid and well-sealed, clearly built to withstand the harsh pool environment, unlike cheaper alternatives. The black and white aesthetic is clean and unobtrusive, while the solar panel looks substantial. Plus, the ambient light around the outside also feels premium. My only complaint is that the display on the pool thermometer seems a bit small, but it’s not a big deal, since I don’t always rely on it. Instead, I use the indoor controller more than 95% of the time to check the pool temperature remotely.

Ease of Setup: 10/10

The IBS-P05R is ready to use straight out of the box – a breath of fresh air compared to some overly complicated smart devices. The pool thermometer is equipped with a solar panel, which is best left in the sun for several hours to charge after unpacking, although it comes pre-charged, and mine was about 50% when I received it. The receiver, meanwhile, requires two AAA batteries, which are included in the package, and once you power on both the receiver and the sensor, they should connect automatically in just seconds. Simply place the sensor in the pool and place the receiver indoors or near a window, and the receiver will start displaying the water temperature as soon as it gathers data.

Build Quality: 10/10

I think the build quality of the pool sensor and indoor monitor is impeccable, at least for the price. The sensor, made of durable ABS plastic, feels robust. There is also a soft silicone ring around its edge to keep water out and minimize noise when it hits the pool wall. However, I’ll need to use it longer to see how well it holds up against UV rays and pool chemicals.

The indoor monitor is a compact, rectangular device with a convenient stand for tabletop use. Its buttons are user-friendly and well-labeled, and while it’s not meant for full outdoor exposure, its rugged casing seems capable of handling minor splashes if kept in a sheltered area.

Solar Charging & Battery Life: 10/10

This is arguably my favorite thing about this pool thermometer - the sensor is completely solar-powered. In my experience, my pool gets about 6 hours of direct sunlight per day, and the thermometer performed perfectly. Even after a few cloudy days, it never lost power or signal. According to the official website, the backup battery can last up to 6 months on a full charge, which means just put it in the pool and forget it!

The receiver, however, does require two AAA batteries, but the good news is that it has low power consumption, so a set of quality alkaline batteries can last for several months.

Functionality: 9/10

Another reason I like the IBS-P05R, aside from its solar charging capability, is the built-in ambient light. It offers several color options, along with various lighting modes and brightness levels. The coolest part is its ability to automatically turn the light on and off based on the surrounding lighting conditions. Basically, the water in my pool will change to the same color as the ambient light, as you can see in the photo below, and it really adds some atmosphere to my nighttime swims.

However, I do miss some functionality from the previous IBS-P02R - the indoor monitor no longer serves as a thermometer and hygrometer. It used to display both pool and indoor temperatures, but the new monitor is limited to showing just the pool temperature. On the bright side, the screen now features a backlight, which offers good visibility even at night.

Accuracy: 10/10

Accuracy is critical for any thermometer. After all, what’s the point of having a temperature reading if it’s unreliable? In my tests, the IBS-P05R consistently read within ±0.5°F of my reference thermometer, which is excellent for a home pool. You can’t expect it to be as accurate as a lab-grade pool thermometer, though.

What’s more, it provides consistent readings with the unusual fluctuations often seen in cheaper models, like being warmer on sunny days and cooler after rain. Plus, its sensor responds quickly, meaning it can quickly capture changes in water temperature and instantly provide real-time data.

Connectivity: 9/10

If you're still using an old-school analog thermometer, it might be time to upgrade to a digital pool thermometer with a wireless LCD monitor that allows you to check the temperature from the comfort of your home. But the connection distance is exactly what makes this type of thermometer different.

Most cheap pool thermometers only have a short transmission range of 60 feet or less. The INKBIRD IBS-P05R, however, claims a wireless connection distance of 980 feet. For my own setup, with my pool located around 60 feet from my house, including an exterior wall and a double-glazed window in between, it always has a stable connection. In a month, I have never experienced a dropout or loss of signal.  I think it will provide the same reliable connection for most homes.

In addition, if you have multiple pools like bathtubs, hot springs, or fish tanks, you can connect up to 9 thermometers with one single receiver, which is very convenient.

Display Readability: 10/10

The receiver unit has a large, clear color LCD screen that displays numbers prominently. While the signal and battery icons are smaller, they remain clearly visible. As mentioned above, the backlight is a handy addition, which makes it easy to read even at night. However, if you don't turn on the backlight, it can become hard to see in direct sunlight, which isn't ideal for all-day use without shade. I also appreciate the water temperature comfort indicator at the bottom, as it quickly shows whether the water temperature is just right, too hot, or too cold. 

Value for Money: 9/10

The new IBS-P05R solar pool thermometer is just $14 more than my old IBS-P02R, yet it offers some great upgrades like a solar-powered battery, ambient lights, and a longer wireless connection distance. The only compromise is that the indoor controller cannot monitor indoor temperature and humidity. However, when you compare it to other pool thermometers in the same or even higher price range, the IBS-P05R stands our with its build quality, connectivity, and functionality. Therefore, if you’re on the fence about whether to invest in or upgrade a pool thermometer, I think you’ll be pleased with this choice.

Is IBS-P05R the Best Pool Thermometer?

So, is the INKBIRD IBS-P05R the best pool thermometer? The question itself is nuanced. If best means laboratory-grade precision, then no, or if best means the cheapest, then also no.

However, if best refers to a combination of convenience, reliability, accuracy, and thoughtful design for average home pool or spa user, then it arguably one of the best pool thermometers on the market, and for any users, it will be the best choice.

Its solar charging feature is a game-changer, providing truly set-it-and-forget-it convenience for the sensor, while adjustable mood lighting and reliable wireless connection distance enhance usability. I highly recommend the INKBIRD IBS-P05R to anyone looking for a high-quality, low-maintenance, reliable pool thermometer that can truly elevates their pool experience.