Best Anemometers for Accurate Wind Speed Measuring

Review & Comparison, Last Update July 20, 2024
When it comes to such outdoor activities as sports shooting, golf, or yacht sailing, knowing the wind speed, its direction and pressure is important in order to hit the target and make a good shot. An accurate anemometer will assist you in this task. We've narrowed down the selection of weather meters available to these five most popular models so that you can make the right choice. ...Read more ...Read less
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BEST 2024
PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Type
Wind Speed
Extra Measures
Measurement Accuracy
Dimensions
Weight
Package Includes
Warranty
 
PROS

Due to its simple construction, you can replace the impeller without much effort. The IP67 class protection allows for testing water and snow temperature. 

CONS

The accuracy of dewpoint measuring might be uncertain. 

OUR VERDICT

The Kestrel 3000 will prove to be a useful gear for everyone, from golfers to firefighters, for whom measuring accuracy is highly important. 

detailed parameters
Type

Vane Handheld Anemometer

Wind Speed

0.8 to 89.0mph (0.4m/s to 40m/s)

Extra Measures
  • Temperature: -20°F - 158°F
  • Humidity: 5% to 95%
  • Wind chill
  • Heat stress index
  • Dew point 
Measurement Accuracy
  • Wind speed: ± 3%
  • Temperature: ±1.8℉
  • Humidity: ±3%
Dimensions

5" x 1.8" x 1.1" (in a case)

Weight

3.6 ounces (including a case)

Package Includes
  • Anemometer
  • A slip-on protective cover
  • Neck lanyard
  • CR2032 coin cell battery (Average life 300 hours)
Warranty

5 years

PROS

Allows you to share reports and information on the weather and geotags with other users via a special app. 

CONS

It can't measure an ambient temperature. 

OUR VERDICT

Despite the overall simplicity, this Weather Flow Wind Meter is compatible with a vast variety of gadgets. It will surely be a good choice for all active users such yachtsmen, skydivers, etc. 

detailed parameters
Type

Vane Handheld Anemometer

Wind Speed

2 to 125mph (0.9m/s to 55.9m/s)

Extra Measures
  • Wind direction (magnetic and true)
Measurement Accuracy
  • Wind speed: ± 0.5%
Dimensions

3.2" x 2" x 1" 

Weight

~1.4 ounces

Package Includes
  • One wind meter
  • Plastic carrying case
Warranty

3 years

PROS
All buttons have icons as to their use. The rubber inserts ensure a better grip in hand. The indicators on the meter provide an easy way to know when it's time to replace the battery.
CONS

The manual isn't very clear.

OUR VERDICT

HoldPeak anemometer is an excellent option for most outdoor activities such as aeromodelling, fishing, surfing, hiking, etc. Equipped with a very sensitive impeller, it can provide you with the most accurate data for analysis of different conditions and measurements.  

detailed parameters
Type

Vane Handheld Anemometer

Wind Speed

0 to 65.0mph (0m/s to 29m/s)

Extra Measures
  • Temperature: 14℉~113℉
  • Humidity:  ≤90%
  • Wind chill
  • Beaufort scale
Measurement Accuracy
  • Wind speed: ±5%
  • Temperature: ±3.6℉
Dimensions

6.5" х 3.4" х 1.5"

Weight

5.4 ounces (including batteries) 

Package Includes
  • Digital Anemometer
  • 2 * 1.5V AAA Battery
  • Lanyard
  • Protective Case
Warranty

1 year

PROS

With the AcuRite 02064MA1 Pro, you can transfer all data directly to the cloud storage and then share and access them via the Internet. The meter is very easy to install due to its wireless connection to the base station. 

CONS

The indoor display should be plugged into your PC for data output. 

OUR VERDICT

With this full weather station, you will always be aware of environmental conditions and climate changes. This device is fit not only for home use but also for scientific research. 

detailed parameters
Type

Weather station with Cup Anemometer

Wind Speed

0 to 99.0mph (0m/s to 44.3m/s)

Extra Measures
  • Outdoor temperature: -40ºF to 158ºF
  • Indoor temperature: 32ºF to 122ºF
  • Humidity: 1% to 99%
  • Wind direction
  • Rainfall
  • Barometric pressure 
Measurement Accuracy
  • Wind speed: up to ± 5%
  • Temperature: ±2℉
  • Humidity: up to ±5%
Dimensions

N/A

Weight

6.5 pounds

Package Includes
  • Display unit with a tabletop stand
  • 5-in-1 sensor
  • Sensor mounting bracket
  • Mounting hardware
  • Power adapter
  • USB cable
  • 4 alkaline batteries
Warranty

1 year

PROS

The Ambient WM-2 is a comprehensive, portable, and rugged weather meter. It is supplied with the detailed instruction that has informative answers on the most frequently asked questions. 

CONS

The display light is a bit muted.  

OUR VERDICT

This simple-to-use and handle wind meter will become a great choice for all golfers, shooters, hikers, and other sports enthusiasts who seek a user-friendly and reasonably-priced device.

detailed parameters
Type

Vane Handheld Anemometer

Wind Speed

0.4 to 67.0mph (0.18m/s to 30m/s)

Extra Measures
  • Temperature: -28 to 138.2°F
  • Beaufort scale
  • Wind chill
  • Comfort level
Measurement Accuracy
  • Wind speed: ± 3%
  • Temperature: ±2℉
Dimensions

5.5" х 2" x 0.7"

Weight

2.1 ounces

Package Includes
  • Anemometer
  • Neck lanyard
Warranty

1 year

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Kestrel 3000 Pocket Wind Meter

Underwater Operation

The Kestrel 3000 is a portable weather station that attracts a lot of customers for many good reasons. The IP67 class of moisture resistance enables the anemometer use in different weather conditions and even under water if needed. This feature in combination with a thermal sensing enables users to measure the temperature of water and snow, which is what hunters and weather researchers often need to do. The Kestrel 3000 has an ergonomic shape that fits perfectly in the hand, even if you wore gloves. It comes with a lanyard, allowing users to either wear it around their necks or fasten to some bag or backpack, and a protective case. We should also mention the impeller that is very easy to replace by simply forcing it out with a finger. You will hardly need to put any effort, nor will you need to use any tools. As for the length of operation, the Kestrel 3000 can work for up to 300 hours on a standard CR2032 battery. If you don't use it daily, this should be enough for a year or even longer. 

Review of Kestrel 3000 Pocket Wind Meter

It's More Than Just a Wind Meter

With this wind anemometer at hand, you will be able to measure not only the speed of the weed but also determine the humidity and temperature around. According to the manual, the Kestrel 3000 is able to read the wind speed up to 89 mph; in practice, though, this figure is a little bit lower and makes somewhere about 56mph, which isn't bad, given that the wind stronger than that is already a storm. The Kestrel 3000 can also measure the temperature and the moisture level and then, based on these data, calculate the dewpoint, heat stress, and wind chill, showing the results in both metric and empiric systems. The results can be further stored in the memory of the device for analysis and comparison of weather changes. The Kestrel 3000 is very easy to handle. There are only three buttons, two of which are used for switching the modes and the other one for turning the appliance on/off. The anemometer is equipped with an oversized backlit display that enables a very clear data reading even at night. 

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Wind Meter in the use

Don't Forget About Calibration

As we have mentioned before, this handheld anemometer is highly accurate. However, to keep it that way requires regular calibration. We recommend you to adjust it right after the purchase, on battery replacement, and in the event of not using it for too long. 

Detailed review of Kestrel 3000 Pocket Wind Meter

Keep Your Hands Free

Alongside the anemometer, the package includes a plastic case that allows you to transport it safely, not worrying about damaging the device. This case can also serve as a stand on which you can set it down when needing your hands free. 

Kestrel 3000 Pocket Wind Meter application

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $177.98
Stock In stock
ASIN B001JEPJZ2

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

It will have an accurate reading for you in about 30 seconds from room temperature to 20 degree outside weather with a breeze, it is quick to react, does a 3 second average of the wind speed.

Features

Perfect size, price and features! You really dont need anything else for basic or advanced long range shooting. Very easy to set up and use.

Size & Weight

This unit is very sturdy and should last a long time.

Extra Measures

I love the features such as windspeed, air temperature, humidity and dewpoint. It helps me prepare to how I should dress outside.
 

Weather Flow WFANO-01

Small Size but Big Potential

Despite the fact the Weather Flow WFANO-01a is the smallest model on our shortlist, its accuracy is phenomenal for its size. The size isn't the only thing that differs this anemometer from other models. It also lacks a display and it doesn't have control buttons. All you will find is a simple impeller and a 3.5 mm mini-jack for gadgets. Still, as we've said, the accuracy of readings of this small anemometer is excellent. It will easily capture the wind speed within the range of 2 to 125 mph with 0.5% of accuracy, and that is way higher than most other models can do. To achieve such amazing results, the Weather Flow WFANO-01a has been repetitiously tested in aerospace laboratories by top specialists and experts. With the Weather Flow WFANO-01, you will also be able to determine the wind direction, as it has a magnetic sensor that rotates in the direction of the wind. All in all, we believe this wind meter by Weather Flow will become a good acquisition for everyone who have been looking for a small handheld anemometer that won't be heavy and will easily fit in a pocket to carry around. Besides, it is available at a very good price. 

Review of Weather Flow WFANO-01 Wind Meter for Smart Phone

Share Data With Your Friends

OS compatibility is probably the best aspect about this device; it is compatible with both iOS and Android gadgets. Once you download a special app from the official website and activate the meter, it will be ready for use. This isn't the only app the Weather Flow anemometer can work with. It will also work fine with such weather software as iKitesurf, iWindSurf, SailFlow, etc. So, you are to choose the software you like better. All retrieved information can be further shared with other users through social networking services, in emails, or messages. You can also leave geodata tags for other users, showing them the best places for windsurfing, kitesurfing, etc. 

Weather Flow WFANO-01 Wind Meter for Smart Phone in the use

For Active Sports Enthusiasts

The fact that users search for an anemometer makes us believe they are active and possibly engaged in some exciting kinds of sports. If this is true, you should also be interested in our recent review on longboards, very cute sports equipment for people who never stay at home for too long. 

Detailed review of Weather Flow WFANO-01 Wind Meter for Smart Phone

Accessories

The Weather WFANO-01a anemometer comes with a transparent heavy-duty plastic case which can serve as a cover and a stand when you don't use the meter. 

Weather Flow WFANO-01 Wind Meter for Smart Phone application

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00E9AF7ZU

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight

The device is small, lightweight, and comes in a nifty carrying case, it takes up very little room in my bag

Key Specs

Seems to work great. It measures speeds of less than 2 mph. It seems well made.

Features

I use this for long-range shooting to be able to measure the wind. There are better products out there but some cost $100-300. At $35 this solution is perfect!
 

HoldPeak HP-866B

A Very Simple Control

The HoldPeak HP-866B is an accurate and practical anemometer to measure the wind speed and ambient temperature that you can consider for purchase. And even though the manual might seem lacking detailed information, the device control is very intuitive and straightforward. Each button on the device has a label as to what function it performs, so you will not have any difficulty handling the meter. The information on the wind speed and temperature is output on a big screen with a backlighting for better visibility of the readings in poor light conditions. In addition to the mentioned measures, the HoldPeak HP-866B can also take the wind chill; this may come in handy for users collecting and working with different meteorological data. The impeller of the HoldPeak HP-866B isn't large but big enough to measure the wind flow at speeds from 0.7 mph to 69 mph with the accuracy of 0.2 mph. Most will agree this is a great result. 

Review of HoldPeak HP-866B Digital Handheld Anemometer

Get Your Hands Free

Also, we can't leave without your attention the ergonomics and build of this handy anemometer. The HoldPeak has rubber inserts on either side to provide users with a better grip. The design itself has the shape that anatomically resembles the shape of a hand, so holding it in hand even for a long period of time won't put a strain on the wrist. The HoldPeak HP-866B is shipped with a soft protective case, allowing you to carry it safely around, without worrying that your new anemometer may get scratched or damaged in a bag or backpack. On the bottom of the device, you will find a screw hole for mounting it on a tripod, and that's exactly what, in our opinion, makes it way more attractive than most other wind meters. If you're a long distance hunter or golfer, you will find it very helpful. Overall, the HoldPeak HP-866B is probably one of the most user-friendly anemometers out there that offers such high accuracy for such an affordable price.

HoldPeak HP-866B Digital Handheld Anemometer in the use

Safety is Priority

As we have already said, this anemometer will attract sports shooters and hunters. If you are new to this activity, we recommend you to get special glasses to shield your eyes from dust, splinters, and hot particles when, for example, making a fire on a campsite. Remember your ears take a lot of pressure from a gunshot, too. Therefore, wearing hearing protectors that reduce noise is also essential in the field. 

Detailed review of HoldPeak HP-866B Digital Handheld Anemometer

Monitor the Charge Level

With the user in mind, the manufacturer has equipped this anemometer with a battery charge indicator. Therefore, you can avoid an unexpected discharge. 

HoldPeak HP-866B Digital Handheld Anemometer application
Last updated price $29.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00ZHKWCP4

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

Good product for the money. Provides wind speed, average, min & max.

Features

I use this for hunting/ long range shooting. It is extremely accurate. So far it seems very durable and like it will last. I am very hopeful to this point.

Size & Weight

Good quality and sturdy construction. I've used it for a couple of weeks and it works quite well.

Extra Measures

I like this it does what it says and what I expected. It even will tell wind chill temperature.
 

AcuRite 02064C

A Weather Station of Full Value

The AcuRite 02064MA1 is a complex anemometer that has a score of sensors to measure not only the wind flow but also its direction, temperature, humidity, and precipitation. It isn't a portable wind meter and will require some space. However, this isn't a drawback of this model, considering its accuracy and capabilities. The AcuRite 02064MA1 can be your real home weather station. It consists of two units, one of which is installed outdoors and the other one indoors. The outdoor station is able to determine wind speeds in the range of 0 - 99 mph in 16 directions, humidity at 1-99%, and rainfall at 0.01" and up. The temperature range will be from -40 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit. This all enables the use of the AcuRite 02064MA1 in almost any region and in any season. In order to function well even in extremely hot weather, the main block of the anemometer houses in a solar panel that keeps charging the ventilation system to maintain the accuracy of the measurements. Installation of this anemometer isn't difficult and will not require any assistance. You will only need a metal pipe with 3/4" diameter, a couple thread-cutting screws, and face the LED block to the south placing it in some open-air space in your yard. 

Review of AcuRite 02064C Wireless Weather Station with PC Connect

Two Screens for More Convenient Operation

We should also mention the base station that can be mounted both on a stand and on a wall, whichever suits you better. It has a large screen divided into several sectors with each having a different color. The screen is big and has an auto-dimming brightness function that makes it easy to read both at daytime and at night. Inside the block, there are several sensors used for taking the measures and a unique Weather Ticker™ display that outputs these data. 

AcuRite 02064C Wireless Weather Station with PC Connect in the use

From Any Part of the World

Should you need to sync some weather statistics with other weather services, simply connect the display to your PC via a USB cable. We'd also recommend you to download a special software - the AcuRite PC Connect, to make synchronization faster and less tricky. Having this software installed on your phone or tablet, you would also be able to keep track of the data on the weather changes from any corner of the world.

Detailed review of AcuRite 02064C Wireless Weather Station with PC Connect

In Case the Power Goes off

What you will like about the AcuRite 02064MA1 is that it can work from two alternative power sources - batteries and the grid. Handy, if the power outage occurs. 

AcuRite 02064C Wireless Weather Station with PC Connect application

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $0.00
Stock May be out of stock
ASIN B0147DCLPC

What customers say about this product

Extra Measures

I like that it can hold information for a year giving you high and low temps, wind speeds, rainfall... Also tracks rain, wind, temp, humidity, for the day, the week, the month, and year

Size & Weight

This unit is well built and feeds a bright screen indoors.

Key Specs

Bought this unit because my much older one had become erratic in receiving the outdoor temperature. Also the wind speed is much more accurate than the older model.

Features

Unit has very good range and is easy to setup.
 

Ambient Weather WM-2

Collect the Accurate Data

The Ambient Weather WM-2 is a pocket size anemometer that enables you to measure air temperature, wind chill and wind speed in three following modes: current, maximal and average, and output these measures in either metric or empiric system. The Ambient Weather WM-2 can also determine the wind flow and then convert it into the Beaufort Scale that will emerge on the screen with results seconds later. The Ambient Weather WM-2 is able to capture wind speeds within the range of 0.4 mph - 67 mph and measure temperature from -21.8 °F up to 138.2 °F. The data on the temperature are updated every 10 seconds, allowing users to keep track of the slightest change in the weather. 

Review of Ambient Weather WM-2 Handheld Weather Meter

Intuitive Control

This model has simple and straightforward control buttons. There are actually only three of them. One is used for changing modes, another one activates the backlighting, and the other one sets up the device. This anemometer comes with a detailed user manual where you can find all information on the use of the device, however, we do not think you will even need to look up in it for guidelines. The moment you take it in your hand, you will know how to operate it. By appearance, the Ambient Weather WM-2 resembles a phone or a walkie-talkie with a big black and white screen. But it's much easier to control and configure than any of the modern touchscreen smartphones. 

Ambient Weather WM-2 Handheld Weather Meter in the use

A Few More Details

We would also like to draw your attention to a few details that may seem minor but mean a lot. To warn users of a low charge, the Ambient Weather WM-2 has a small indicator that starts blinking when the battery runs out of power. The neck lanyard included in the box adds to the convenience of use of the device, making it possible for you to wear it comfortably around your neck or fasten it to the belt or elsewhere. 

Detailed review of Ambient Weather WM-2 Handheld Weather Meter

Measure the Wind Speed Stationary

A screw hole at the bottom of the device enables you to affix it to a tripod and use it in the field, keeping your hands free. 

Ambient Weather WM-2 Handheld Weather Meter application
Last updated price $29.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B005DF9VUC

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight

This is a handy alternative to a large scale "weather monitoring station" requiring permanent set-up.

Key Specs

Neat little device. Works well. Checked its accuracy out the window of my car. Reads very close to speedometer reading at 45mph

Features

Excellent tool for the long range shooter.

Extra Measures

This is a great little gadget! Easy to use, gives you the wind speed, the overall average and even the wind chill.
 

What is an Anemometer?

Every golfer knows that in order to make a good ball and hit the target, two things should be taken into account: the speed and direction of the wind. The same goes for all shooters and hunters who just as well rely on the allowance for the wind. Earlier on, people used to throw up a grip of dust in the air to follow the direction of the wind. Now, there's a much better solution - a device called anemometer. This small device has an impeller and a sensor that determines its rotation and converts it further into the wind speed. Anemometers may differ from one another by size, shape, and functions. For this review, we've picked some of the best wind meters presented on the modern market so that you can find the right one for your special needs.

Knowing the wind speed and direction is good, but without a good golf ball, hitting the target may still be quite a daunting task. Make sure to look through our review on the golf balls and get ready for the next game.

What Features to Compare

Type

When selecting an anemometer, first of all, decide which type would be the best for you. If you need a device to use for meteorological observation in one specific area, go for stationary models. These are installed on an open terrain (a hill or a roof of a house), that allows getting more accurate weather data. In case you need to measure wind speed in different locations, consider buying a handheld anemometer. There are two common types among the latter: Cup and Vane anemometers. The former one is more popular and often used in airports for making distant measures. It is also quite bulky due to the horizontal orientation of the blades. Vane meters are considerably smaller in size. They are often purchased by shooters, hunters, and other outdoor enthusiasts who need to keep the device at hand.

Measurings 

After you select the type, go through technical characteristics. The range of measurement is an important criterion. You should check on the minimal parameter since the lower it is, the feebler wind you can identify. Then consider the accuracy range. The most optimal index for wind meters is 2-5%. Some models can take temperature, pressure, and relative humidity measurements and then, based on these data, make calculations. However, you should remember, the more options there are the more the device usually costs. 

Additional features 

Finally, it will be a good idea to check out such useful features as moisture resistance for safe use of the device in extreme conditions, a protective case for its convenient transportation and storage, a display light, rubber inserts for a better grip, and the function of wireless connection with your smartphone. Some anemometers can be mounted on a tripod. For shooters who often need to keep their hands free, this may be the best option.

FAQ:

Q: Why may I need an anemometer?

A: With this modern device you will get the most accurate data about the wind speed, its direction, temperature, the level of humidity, and much more. Speaking of the type, most professional users will recommend you to go for a digital model as it usually provides much more accurate readings than most obsolete analogs. Anemometers are used in many sports activities such as shooting, hunting, skydiving, golf. It offers a great scope of application. 

Q: How is the wind speed measured?

A: Well, it can be measured in any unit of speed. This unit indicates the distance traveled during a certain period of time. Most digital anemometers use the following metric units: m/s, ft/min, Knots, km/h, mph. 

Q: How accurate is an anemometer? 

A: The accuracy highly depends on the model and the type of the sensor. As a rule, the average rate for anemometers varies from 1% to 5%. Therefore, we recommend you to check out this right before choosing the model. 

Q: Where can an anemometer be used?

A: Well, frankly speaking, there are many areas where an anemometer can be applied. Most commonly, anemometers are used at weather stations to determine upcoming changes in the weather. It is also often used in the engineering industry and on construction sites. When it comes to ventilation systems, anemometers just as well come to help. Wind meters are also popular among sports enthusiasts and hunters who need to determine the speed of the wind to make a good ball or hit the target. As you can see, the scope of application is truly vast. 

Q: Can I replace a broken sensor or a vane propeller?

A: Well, to be honest not every model has a replaceable sensor. Most basic wind meters don’t. If yours is more advanced, more likely than not you will find one. As for impellers, they are easier to find and replace. However, we'd still recommend you to google these nuances first before buying a certain model. 

Q: How long will it work before I need to change batteries?

A: The length of time depends on the frequency of use and the model type. According to manufacturers and customers’ feedback, on average, the anemometer lasts for up to 300 hours before the battery replacement is required.

Sources:

1. Anemometer, Omega.

2. Anemometer, Wikipedia.

3. Choosing a Weather Station, eBay. July 10, 2014.

4. Weather station, Wikipedia.

5. Anemometer, Britannica.

6. Chris Woodford Anemometers, explain that stuff. March 5, 2017.

7. Veronica Ouellette What Units Does the Anemometer Measure In? Sciencing. April 24, 2017.

8. How Does an Anemometer Measure Wind Speed? Acurite.

9. Measure Wind Speed with Your Own Wind Meter, scientific American. November 10, 2011.

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Publish Date: 2017-07-21 14:06:09