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Best Anemometer – Digital, Handheld and Wireless Vane Anemometers for Measuring Wind Speed and Direction

An anemometer is one of those gadgets you don’t get by just choosing the sexiest or the cheapest model in a store. Why? Basically, there are lots of types, and you must first understand what kind you need even before you proceed to hit that “buy” button. There are some that need be mounted on a pole, others connected to a smartphone, and others that are handheld.

To help you make an informed decision, we have done the research on your behalf, coming up with some of the best anemometer brands on the market to ensure you don’t regret your purchase. By the way, these handy devices are often called wind meters, and not only can you get ones that are designed just for measuring the wind, but they can also be part of a complete weather station (these often use a remote wireless anemometer). So, if you don't find what you need among these 5 products, check out the links located just below this quick comparison chart.

One quick note before we move on. There are also sonic anemometers, but they are more expensive and not what most people are looking for, so we didn’t review any of those. However, it is what you were looking for, here are a few options.


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Overview
PROS
CONS
SPECS
Type
Speed range
Power
Display
Extras
Our Top Choice
HoldPeak Handheld Digital Anemometer
HoldPeak Handheld Digital Anemometer
HoldPeak focuses on quality and functionality in all its instruments, assuring you of quality and accuracy.
Backlight display. Extra functionality. Portable.
Display might be confusing at first because of two readings.
Handheld vane anemometer
0.3m/s to 30m/s (69 mph MAX)
2 AAA batteries
LCD display
Built-in temperature regulator
Best Value
Ambient Weather WM-2 Weather Meter
Ambient Weather WM-2 Weather Meter
Ambient Weather is ranked one of America's 500 largest e-retailers. They partnered with WeatherUnderground [dot] com to build the biggest free weather station network globally.
Easy to use. Accurate. Light and compact. Longer battery life. Low price.
Only takes temperature and wind measurements. Maximum wind speed is only 67 mph.
Handheld vane anemometer
0.4 mps to 67 mps
1 x 3V lithium cell (CR2032)
LCD display
Backlight
Acurite Pro 5-in-1 Color Weather Station
Acurite Pro 5-in-1 Color Weather Station
AcuRite is a renowned manufacturer of high-tech weather instruments that allow users to customize sensor alerts and receive notifications for critical weather changes.
Illuminated color display comes with auto-dimming brightness. Patented self-calibrating forecasting. 12-24 hours of weather forecasting. Real-time info streaming through the Weather Ticker™.
Backlight lasts for only 10 seconds when battery-powered. Extra costs on mobile tracking of info from sensors.
Wireless wind vane
0 mph to 99 mph
4 AA alkaline/lithium batteries
Illuminated color display
Weather ticker
Proster Digital Wind Speed Meter Gauge
Proster Digital Wind Speed Meter Gauge
For many years, Proster has been the go-to brand for accurate measuring and analyzing. The Proster Wind Speed Meter Gauge is built to last and performs in any condition.
Affordable. Functional. Accurate readings.
No recall function.
Handheld vane anemometer
0.4m/s to 30m/s
9V battery (included)
Backlit LCD display
Multi-unit switching
UYIGAO Handheld Digital Anemometer
UYIGAO Handheld Digital Anemometer
UYIGAO Technology Co. Ltd is committed to the promotion of high-tech optimal instruments. Some of its products include digital multimeters and illuminance meters.
Great performance. Accurate and responsive. Has low-battery and over-range indicators.
Slow in displaying temperature reading of 35 degrees and above.
Handheld vane anemometer
0.4m/s to 30m/s (MAX is 67 mph)
3*1.5V “AAA” batteries
LCD display
Record and recall function

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What Is the Best Vane Anemometer? Read Our Anemometer Reviews to Find the One You Need!

Aside from type, you must consider factors such as ease of reading, portability, speed range, and power source. All these elements go a long way to ensure you get the precise wind measurements and accuracy you yearn for. With this great list at hand, what are you waiting for? Go ahead and pick an anemometer that suits your needs and know what the wind is like today!

Related: National Preparedness Month – How to Prepare for Hurricanes and Emergencies
Our Top Choice
HoldPeak Handheld Digital Anemometer
The HoldPeak HP-866B Digital Handheld Anemometer has an impressive wind speed range of 0.3-30m/s, with a maximum of 69mph, meaning that it can deliver accurate readings. Want to enjoy the convenience that comes with a USB corded meter? Check out the HOLDPEAK 846A Digital Anemometer that also comes with multiple functions and is available in different colors.

HoldPeak Digital Handheld Anemometer for Measuring Wind Speed, Temperature and Wind Chill with Backlight


Features

Over the years, HoldPeak has strived to grow from strength to strength as an established manufacturer in the international measuring industry. Its position in the industry as a manufacturer of technology has further been advanced by the accuracy of its products. It is true that its digital measuring instruments are not only globally recognized, but also known to be secure and functional.

The HoldPeak HP-866b Digital Handheld Anemometer is a one-of-a-kind instrument. It has the capacity of measuring both the speed and the temperature of wind with a backlight to help you see the measurements even in low light. This device also comes with a one-year warranty to cover you against any malfunction.

You can get this instrument and begin using it today, for quite a decent price. There are also a couple of extra features that come with the HoldPeak HP-866b Digital Handheld Anemometer that you can check out below:

  • It comes with a wind speed range of up to 69mph and a wind speed accuracy rate of 0.1dgts.
  • For critical environmental conditions, the HoldPeak HP-866b Digital Handheld Anemometer gives you fast measurements and analysis.
  • You also get the wind speed temperature and wind chill display on the LCD screen.
  • It’s convenient for a lanyard connection as it has a screw hole at the bottom.
  • It’s also available as an adjustable built-in temperature regulator.
Want a different handheld model? HoldPeak has got you covered. See more anemometers the brand offers!
Best Value
Ambient Weather WM-2 Weather Meter
The Ambient Weather WM-2 Weather Meter is a rugged, portable, and compact gadget ideal for hikers, shooters, and model plane pilots among other outdoor enthusiasts. Want more convenience by having hands-free reading? Get the Ambient Weather Handheld Weather Meter with similar measurement capabilities and a plastic tripod to allow you to take hands-free readings while in the field.

Ambient Weather Handheld Weather Meter for Measuring Windspeed, Temperature, Wind Chill


Features

Ambient Weather has been a market leader in high-quality instruments for environmental monitoring and weather stations since 1998. The company also offers thousands of products including consumer electronics, home improvement, personal safety, and media devices, and it makes them available to clients from across the globe through its website. Its aim is to provide premium customer service and support while offering the most affordable prices in the market.

The Ambient Weather Handheld Weather Meter is compact, rugged, and portable, making it ideal for shooters, model plane pilots, hikers, and other outdoor enthusiasts. It comes with a lanyard and replaceable user batteries to improve performance.

The anemometer also has a versatile LCD display to help you switch between the units of measurement for wind speed (mph, m/s, Km/h, ft/min, or Knots), units of measurement for temperature (Celsius or degrees Fahrenheit), wind chill and temperature, and the average, maximum, and instant wind speed. The included backlight allows for low-light and night viewing.

Here are some more features of the Ambient Weather Handheld Weather Meter:

  • Wind hold mode and wind average mode allow for versatility in measuring wind speed
  • Low battery indicator alerts you to recharge or replace your batteries
  • The optional tripod mount offers more convenience (order WM-TRIPOD ASIN B005DGH3AQ)
  • Beaufort wind scale bar graph for ease of scalability
  • Comfort level for ease of use
  • Longer battery life of at least 1 year
Looking for something else? Ambient Weather has numerous other anemometers that you can choose from.
Acurite Pro 5-in-1 Color Weather Station
The Acurite Pro 5-in-1 Color Weather Station tracks specified weather-related variables, such as humidity, barometric pressure, and changes in temperature to produce an accurate forecast customized for your location. It uses wind vane vane anemometer. Willing to pay more for extra features? Get the AcuRite Wireless Weather Station that comes with PC connect capability, programmable alarms, and remote monitoring weather app.

Acurite 5-in-1 Wireless Weather Station for Wind Speed, Wind Direction, Temperature, Rainfall and Humidity Gauge – Available in 2 Style Packages


Features

Acurite is a product of Chaney Instrument Company, a subsidiary of the Primex Family of Companies (PFOC). It’s a family-owned business with headquarters in Lake Geneva, Wisconsin. Since 1943, Acurite has earned a long-standing reputation in the field of precision time and weather instruments. To keep up with today’s mobile technology, most of Acurite’s products are now augmented with internet connectivity to allow users to access sensor data remotely from any part of the world through smartphones, tablets, or computers.

The AcuRite Pro Color Weather Station generates accurate temperature and weather forecast information to help you plan your day with confidence. The AcuRite Pro 5-in-1 Anemometer provides reports on your current weather conditions including humidity, temperature, wind speed, barometric pressure, rainfall, and wind direction in a visible, vivid color display. It comes with a weather ticker that streams real-time information such as “feels-like” temperature, indoor comfort levels, moon phase, and much more.

Here are some extra features of the AcuRite Pro 5-in-1 Anemometer:

  • It offers accurate measurements.
  • Its illuminated color display is coupled with auto-dimming brightness for a crisp, clear display.
  • Comes with a 12- to 24-hour weather forecast that keeps you covered around the clock.
  • The Patented Self-Calibrating Forecasting retrieves data from a sensor located in your backyard to provide an accurate weather forecast for your current location.
  • It comes with a Weather Ticker™ that streams real-time info and alerts.
  • Rain accumulation data keeps records for today, by month, by year, all-time, by rainfall event, and days since the last rain.
  • It records wind speed for current, average, and peak (MPH or KPH).
  • It marks wind direction with a 16-point wind rose.
  • The design can either be tabletop or wall-mounted.
  • It has an indicator for wireless signal strength for ease of positioning.
  • It possesses a strong wireless range of up to 100 meters or 330 feet.
  • Data is transmitted every 18 to 36 seconds, which enhances accuracy and consistency.
  • It has an automatic self-emptying rain water collection cup.
  • It offers an extended battery life of up to 2 years.
  • It comes with a one-year limited warranty to give you peace of mind.
  • Its durable, rugged, all-weather construction makes it long-lasting.
  • It offers easy installation that includes mounting hardware, AC power adapter, and a detailed instruction manual.

This weather station has two versions: the full color version and full color with dual displays, so choose according to your needs.

Not thrilled with this model? Check out other anemometer options offered by AcuRite and make a pick.
Proster Digital Wind Speed Meter Gauge
The Proster Wind Speed Meter Gauge is a portable digital anemometer equipped with a backlight to allow you to collect data even at night. It comes with a battery and auto shut-off feature for more functionality. If you want a slightly cheaper model with a thermometer, check out the smaller Proster Handheld Wind Speed Gauge.

Proster Handheld Anemometer - Portable Wind Speed Meter CFM Meter Wind Gauge with LCD Backlight for Weather Data Collection Outdoors Sailing Surfing Fishing


Features

Proster’s products are manufactured to satisfy a wide range of requests in the science and technology space. The company ensures that everything it makes is made to meet strict standards as required in the respective industries.

The Proster Wind Speed Meter Gauge is a one-of-a-kind anemometer as it’s made with a large LCD display to ensure you don’t miss a single reading. It also features a backlight, meaning that you can use it any time of the day or night. If you prefer to have it on a fixed place, it offers that option, as well as a handheld option for windsurfers and other professionals.

Besides the fact that this anemometer is affordable and portable, here are more features that make it a hard-to-beat deal:

  • Backlight to help you read data even in dark environments
  • Comes with a 9V battery to keep you going without the need to replace
  • Features low-battery indicator as well as auto power-off
Proster offers a wide range of anemometers, so if this doesn’t strike your fancy check out more options it has!
UYIGAO Handheld Digital Anemometer
With a measuring range of between 35dBA and 135dBA, sampling rate of 500ms, and resolution of 0.1DB, the UYIGAO Handheld Digital Anemometer comes with a dual display with a high level of accuracy, stable readings, and fast response. Want something just for temperature and humidity? Get the Digital Temperature and Humidity Meter with Dew Point and Wet Bulb Temperature.

UYIGAO Digital Handheld Wind Speed Meter for Measuring Air Flow Velocity – Backlight and Max/Min, Available in 4 Sizes


Features

UYIGAO Technology Co. Ltd is an integrated manufacturer of measuring instruments. It specializes in developing, designing, producing, and selling various measuring instruments. The brand targets meter and instrument industry elites in China and across the globe with characteristic products that meet the needs of a wide range of users.

The UYIGAO Digital Anemometer offers fast measurement of critical environment conditions such as wind speed, wind chill, and temperature in a single LCD display. It has a wind speed range of 0.4-30m/s (MAX is 67mph) with a wind speed accuracy of 0.1dgts.

The Handheld Digital Anemometer measures wind speed in 5 different units (km/h, m/s, Knots, ft/min, and mph). Through its built-in temperature regulator, you can easily adjust C/F temperature. It also has a record and recall Max/Min/Average/Current function. The low-battery indication alerts when your battery is running low. Further, a screw hole on the bottom can be used to connect to a lanyard for easy portability.

More features of the UYIGAO Digital Anemometer include:

  • The anemometer is ideal for outdoor sports activities such as surfing, sailing, windsurfing, and kite flying.
  • It is highly accurate and responsive.
  • It has an over-range indication.
Want something else? Check out other anemometer options offered by UYIGAO for an ideal match.

Best Digital Anemometer Buying Guide: Handheld Anemometer vs Wireless Anemometer – Which Is Right for You?

Anemometers are critical gadgets you’ll find in almost every weather station, right from the warm equatorial to the frigid Arctic regions. Don’t be fooled into thinking anemometers are the exclusive preserve of weathermen and research scientists. Wind speed is a clear indication of changing weather patterns like approaching storms, which is critical for pilots, climatologists, and engineers. As you prepare to go out sky diving, boat riding, or deep sea fishing, it’s paramount to keep tabs on the prevailing wind speeds and take charge of your safety. Remember to wear your GPS watch just in case you lose track of your location.

Choosing the right anemometer can be quite complicated. Every type comes with unique styles and functionalities, but the key factors and aspects to look out for include accuracy, portability, build quality, ease of reading, and method of powering.

The cheaper anemometer brands are propeller-based units, but you must precisely face the wind to obtain accurate readings. High-end units have propellers that are independent of the wind direction and give more accurate values. Many models require 9V batteries which are not included in the package, while others come with two AAA batteries that you can simply slot in and begin to operate. Models that don’t require batteries to operate are also available.

Let’s go through the consideration factors before we jump to our picks.

Video: How are Wind Speeds Measured?

How Anemometers Measure Wind Speeds. | Courtesy of 10 Tampa Bay
Price

Anemometer prices vary widely depending on the features and functionalities. Generally, you will find a good quality anemometer from $20, but more advanced models will cost about $100 or more, inclusive of shipping charges. Although high cost models are always preferred, you’ll also find some cheap anemometers that still offer good functionalities and durability. Regardless of your budget, if you take into account these consideration factors, you will find the most suitable anemometer for your needs. Just ensure your pick offers quality, accuracy, portability, and ease of reading.

However, we don’t recommend the cheapest brands since the displays may be harder to read and some are very sensitive to wind direction. If you don’t have the expertise to navigate the winds and pick the correct positioning, go for high-end models which are independent of wind direction and offer better accuracy.

Features

Anemometer might come with some common features, which is pretty obvious. However, there are unique features you should place your tabs on as you begin shopping for a good anemometer. Here’s a look at some of those features:

Type

There are two types of anemometers you can choose from, and it all depends on your budget and where you’re going to use it. Weather station anemometers are highly priced and will usually come with cups that spin when hit by a stream of air to generate a reading of wind speed. The device is mounted on a pole or set up on a console. The second type is the digital anemometer that again has several brands with various price ranges. The digital display makes reading quick and easy. They are designed to be handheld and incorporate a small fan that turns when hit by air and calculates the wind speed.

Battery power and range

Anemometers will offer different ranges, which is something you need to look at, especially if you’re going to use it for long range shooting. In such a case, choose an anemometer with a longer range like 0-5,000 feet.

Since most anemometer models are battery powered, it’s critical to consider batteries that will last for several days of continuous operation. Some models are designed with power saving modes so they only power on when the wind is blowing, hence saving on the battery life.

Accuracy Rating

The quality of an anemometer is determined by its accuracy level, which is an indication of how accurate the displayed reading is. As a general rule of thumb, go for anemometer with accuracy ratings of ± 5%, or better.

Response and Wind Speed

Wind speeds will usually fluctuate quickly within short time periods. It’s important for your equipment to offer fast response to these fluctuations and update the readings. A good anemometer should accommodate wind speed ranges between 0 and 100 mph.

Other Features

There are numerous other features of importance like color, which affects thawing out when operating in icy areas (black color thaws faster than white). Also check on accessibility to clean-up, and resistance to electrical interference from sources like radio transmission.

Construction and Design

The material and construction parameters of the anemometer are contributing factors to the durability of the equipment. Since anemometers will be continuously used outdoors and exposed to harsh environmental conditions like rain and snow, the units must be rugged and sturdy enough to withstand these harsh weather conditions. Here’s a look at the design and construction of the two common types of anemometers:

Mechanical anemometers

Usually, cup and vane anemometers operate on a mechanically rotating cup or vane on a hinge. These anemometers will not withstand ice and may quickly fail due to icing effect. However, you’ll find some high-end heated models of cup anemometer that can operate even during freezing weather conditions. Additionally, some models come with non-friction rotating parts and can last much longer than the traditional cup and vane anemometers.

Electronic anemometer

Some of the simplest anemometers work more like electricity generators. Electronic anemometers still have small fans resembling the cups and propellers. As the wind blows, the fan spins and drives the miniature generator attached to the end. The generator connects to an electronic circuit that records an instant readout of the prevailing wind speed on the digital display.

Video: Wind Direction and Speed

Learn the Different Types of Wind. | Courtesy of Met Office - Weather
Performance and Ease of Use

Now, let’s analyze the performance of various types of anemometers you’ll find in the market to help you make an informed choice:

Cup Anemometer

A cup anemometer basically comprises of 3 or 4 cups arranged in a vertical axis. When the wind blows, the cups rotate and the wind speed is recorded through an integrated read switch. They are highly rugged and reliable since you don’t have to face the direction of the wind. A major drawback is that it won’t work well in icy conditions and it may not accurately record low velocities.

Vane Anemometers

Vane anemometers work like cup anemometers, but the sensors are shaped like turbines or windmills. The anemometer has to be positioned parallel to the wind direction and rotates on a horizontal axis. Vane anemometers can withstand the harshest weather conditions and can measure very high wind speeds. However, to achieve accurate readings, you must position the instrument towards the wind source.

Hot Wire Anemometers

These anemometers use a very thin wire that is electrically heated and cools down when the wind blows by. The current required to keep the wire at a constant temperature is then determined. Finally, the air velocity is calculated by converting the heat loss. Hot wire anemometers offer lower starting thresholds than vane and cup anemometers and also provide high levels of accuracy and quick response times. A notable downside is that large particles in the air may damage the instruments and it’s not appropriate in areas with rapid temperature fluctuations.

PitotTube Anemometers

This unique anemometer first measures wind pressure before converting it into wind speed. It can handle extreme air temperatures and velocity. The sizes are small and can be easily fitted into duct work. However, it must be oriented towards the flow of wind and may not work well in areas with fluctuating wind flow.

Sonic Anemometers

Finally, sonic anemometers provide the most advanced options in the market. The instrument uses ultrasound waves to measure wind velocity. It’s applicable in the aviation industry by tapping the sonic pulses between transducers at the time of flight. They offer profoundly fine resolutions of 20Hz or more. However, they are quite expensive and may only be appropriate for commercial applications.

In general, if you’re not going to use the anemometer in a weather station or for air traffic control, consider the easy-to-use digital anemometers which are battery-powered and can give accurate digital displays of wind speeds.


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Get the Best Anemometer of 2023!

Our team at TopProducts has invested considerable time to ensure you have access to relevant information regarding anemometers so you make an informed choice. It’s our hope you did just that and got yourself a great model that will guarantee accurate measurements. But, you can still consider other models from these brands depending on your specific needs and budget. It’s time to do it like a pro!

Our Top Choice
HoldPeak Handheld Digital Anemometer
HoldPeak Handheld Digital Anemometer
Best Value
Ambient Weather WM-2 Weather Meter
Ambient Weather WM-2 Weather Meter
Acurite Pro 5-in-1 Color Weather Station
Acurite Pro 5-in-1 Color Weather Station
Proster Digital Wind Speed Meter Gauge
Proster Digital Wind Speed Meter Gauge
UYIGAO Handheld Digital Anemometer
UYIGAO Handheld Digital Anemometer

Anemometer FAQs

What is an anemometer?
An anemometer is a weather instrument with which you can measure wind or any gas's speed and direction.
What does an anemometer measure?
An anemometer measures the speed and direction of the wind and any flowing gas. The most likely place you would find one is in weather stations where meteorologists use it to predict the weather.
How does an anemometer work?
An anemometer works in a simple way, which is driven by the wind. As the wind blows past, the cups of the instrument rotate, spinning the rod. Stronger and faster wind makes the rod spin faster determining the wind's speed by counting the number of turns per second.
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