What are the best home weather stations in 2023. How do weather stations compare to smartphone apps. Which features should you look for in a reliable weather station. Where can you find accurate local weather data.
Understanding the Need for Home Weather Stations
Weather apps on smartphones have become ubiquitous, but they often fall short when it comes to providing accurate local conditions. The data these apps rely on typically comes from weather stations that may be miles away from your location. This can lead to significant discrepancies between the reported weather and what’s actually happening in your immediate vicinity.
Home weather stations bridge this gap by providing real-time, hyperlocal weather data. They measure various atmospheric conditions right at your doorstep, offering a level of accuracy and detail that distant weather reports simply cannot match.
Key Advantages of Home Weather Stations
- Precise local measurements
- Real-time data updates
- Multiple atmospheric condition readings
- Internet connectivity for remote monitoring
- Data sharing capabilities
Essential Features of Quality Home Weather Stations
When selecting a home weather station, it’s crucial to understand the key features that contribute to its performance and reliability. High-quality weather stations offer a comprehensive suite of sensors and capabilities that provide a complete picture of local weather conditions.
Core Measurements
- Temperature
- Relative humidity
- Barometric pressure
- Rainfall
- Wind speed and direction
Beyond these basic measurements, advanced models may include additional sensors for UV index, solar radiation, soil moisture, and more. The breadth of data collected can significantly enhance your understanding of local microclimates and weather patterns.
Connectivity and Data Access
Modern weather stations often come equipped with Wi-Fi capabilities, allowing users to access their data remotely via smartphone apps or web interfaces. This feature enables real-time monitoring from anywhere and facilitates easy sharing of weather data with online communities or weather networks.
Top Home Weather Station Picks for 2023
After thorough research and testing, we’ve identified the best home weather stations available in 2023. These models stand out for their accuracy, reliability, and feature sets.
1. Ambient Weather WS-2902C Osprey WiFi 10-in-1
Crowned as our best overall pick, the Ambient Weather WS-2902C offers an impressive array of features at an accessible price point. This versatile station measures ten different weather parameters, including temperature, humidity, wind speed and direction, rainfall, UV and solar radiation.
- Wi-Fi enabled for easy data access and sharing
- Supports integration with smart home systems
- Excellent value for the feature set
2. Ambient Weather WS-2000 Smart Weather Station with WiFi
For those seeking a premium experience, the WS-2000 delivers advanced features and superior build quality. It boasts a high-contrast TFT display and enhanced sensor accuracy.
- Customizable display layouts
- Optional add-on sensors for expanded capabilities
- Robust construction for long-term durability
3. Davis Instruments 6152 Vantage Pro2
Recognized for its exceptional accuracy, the Vantage Pro2 is a favorite among weather enthusiasts and professionals alike. It offers research-grade precision and reliability.
- Highly accurate sensors
- Modular design for easy maintenance
- Extensive data logging capabilities
Innovative Technologies in Weather Monitoring
The field of home weather monitoring is constantly evolving, with new technologies emerging to enhance accuracy and user experience. One such innovation is the use of ultrasonic sensors for wind measurement.
Ultrasonic Wind Sensors
Traditional cup anemometers have moving parts that can wear out over time. Ultrasonic sensors, on the other hand, use sound waves to measure wind speed and direction, offering improved accuracy and durability.
The Ambient Weather WS-5000 Ultrasonic Weather Station exemplifies this technology:
- No moving parts, reducing maintenance needs
- Higher precision in low wind conditions
- Faster response to wind changes
Budget-Friendly Options for Weather Enthusiasts
While advanced weather stations offer comprehensive features, there are also quality options available for those on a tighter budget. These stations provide essential weather data without breaking the bank.
AcuRite 5-in-1 01512 Wireless Weather Station
This affordable model offers a good balance of features and value:
- Measures temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, and rainfall
- Easy-to-read color display
- Wireless transmission up to 330 feet
While it may lack some of the advanced features of pricier models, the AcuRite 01512 provides reliable basic weather monitoring for home users.
Integrating Weather Stations with Smart Home Systems
As smart home technology continues to evolve, many weather station manufacturers are incorporating features that allow their devices to integrate seamlessly with popular smart home platforms.
Benefits of Smart Home Integration
- Automated climate control based on outdoor conditions
- Voice-activated weather reports through smart speakers
- Triggering of smart home routines based on weather data
For example, you could set up your smart irrigation system to adjust watering schedules based on rainfall data from your weather station, or have your smart thermostat optimize indoor temperature based on outdoor humidity levels.
Popular Integration Platforms
Many modern weather stations support integration with platforms such as:
- Amazon Alexa
- Google Home
- IFTTT (If This Then That)
- Home Assistant
When choosing a weather station, consider its compatibility with your existing smart home ecosystem to maximize its utility and convenience.
Data Sharing and Citizen Science
One of the most exciting aspects of owning a home weather station is the opportunity to contribute to larger weather monitoring networks. Many stations allow users to share their data with online communities and scientific organizations, effectively turning backyard weather enthusiasts into citizen scientists.
Popular Weather Networks
- Weather Underground
- CWOP (Citizen Weather Observer Program)
- GLOBE (Global Learning and Observations to Benefit the Environment)
By sharing your data, you not only contribute to a more comprehensive understanding of local weather patterns but also help improve weather forecasting models and climate research.
Benefits of Data Sharing
- Contributes to more accurate local forecasts
- Supports climate research initiatives
- Connects you with a community of weather enthusiasts
- Provides a sense of purpose and engagement with your weather station
Many of the top-rated weather stations, including the Ambient Weather and Davis Instruments models, offer easy integration with these networks, often requiring just a few simple setup steps to start sharing your data.
Maintenance and Longevity of Weather Stations
To ensure your weather station continues to provide accurate data over the years, proper maintenance is essential. While high-quality stations are built to withstand the elements, regular care can significantly extend their lifespan and preserve their accuracy.
Key Maintenance Tasks
- Regular cleaning of sensors and rain gauges
- Checking and replacing batteries in wireless components
- Calibrating sensors periodically
- Inspecting for damage after severe weather events
Most manufacturers provide detailed maintenance guidelines in their user manuals. Adhering to these recommendations can help prevent issues and ensure your station remains in top condition.
Durability Considerations
When selecting a weather station, pay attention to the materials used in its construction. Look for features like:
- UV-resistant plastics to prevent sun damage
- Corrosion-resistant metals for longevity in humid environments
- Robust mounting hardware to withstand high winds
Investing in a well-built station from a reputable manufacturer can save you money and frustration in the long run by reducing the need for replacements or repairs.
Future Trends in Home Weather Monitoring
The field of personal weather monitoring is continuously evolving, with new technologies and features on the horizon. Understanding these trends can help you make a more informed decision when purchasing a weather station, ensuring your investment remains relevant in the coming years.
Emerging Technologies
- Machine learning algorithms for improved local forecasting
- Integration with air quality sensors for comprehensive environmental monitoring
- Advanced data visualization tools for easier interpretation of weather data
- Increased use of solar power for more sustainable operation
As these technologies mature, we can expect to see more sophisticated and user-friendly weather stations hitting the market, offering even greater insights into local weather patterns and environmental conditions.
The Role of AI in Weather Monitoring
Artificial Intelligence is poised to play a significant role in the future of home weather stations. AI algorithms could potentially:
- Detect and correct sensor anomalies automatically
- Provide personalized weather insights based on historical data and user preferences
- Enhance the accuracy of hyperlocal forecasts by learning from patterns in your specific microclimate
While these features are still in development, they represent the exciting potential for home weather stations to become even more powerful tools for understanding and predicting local weather phenomena.
Making the Most of Your Weather Station Data
Owning a weather station is not just about collecting data; it’s about understanding and applying that information in meaningful ways. Here are some practical applications for the wealth of data your station will provide:
Gardening and Agriculture
- Optimizing watering schedules based on rainfall and evaporation rates
- Planning planting and harvesting times using temperature and frost data
- Monitoring soil conditions with optional soil moisture sensors
Energy Efficiency
- Adjusting heating and cooling systems based on outdoor temperature and humidity
- Optimizing the use of solar panels by tracking sun intensity and cloud cover
Outdoor Activities
- Planning outdoor events with greater confidence in local weather conditions
- Assessing safety conditions for activities like hiking or boating
Home Maintenance
- Preparing for potential weather-related issues like heavy rainfall or high winds
- Monitoring conditions that could affect paint drying, concrete curing, or other home improvement projects
By creatively applying the data from your weather station, you can make more informed decisions in various aspects of daily life, potentially saving time, money, and resources.
Choosing the Right Weather Station for Your Needs
With the variety of options available, selecting the ideal weather station can seem daunting. However, by considering your specific needs and priorities, you can narrow down the choices to find the perfect fit.
Factors to Consider
- Budget: Determine how much you’re willing to invest in a weather station
- Location: Consider the space you have available for installation and any local obstacles that might affect readings
- Desired Features: Identify which measurements and capabilities are most important to you
- Connectivity: Decide if you need Wi-Fi capabilities for remote monitoring and data sharing
- Expandability: Look for systems that allow for additional sensors if you think you might want to add capabilities in the future
Remember that while features are important, accuracy and reliability should be your primary concerns. It’s often better to invest in a simpler, high-quality station than a feature-packed but less reliable model.
Installation Considerations
Proper installation is crucial for accurate readings. Key points to keep in mind include:
- Placing temperature sensors away from heat sources and reflective surfaces
- Ensuring wind sensors have unobstructed exposure
- Positioning rain gauges away from overhanging obstacles
- Considering the range of wireless transmitters if using a system with separate sensors and display
Many manufacturers provide detailed installation guides, and it’s worth taking the time to follow these carefully to ensure optimal performance from your weather station.
By carefully considering your needs and the available options, you can select a weather station that will provide years of valuable data and insights into your local weather patterns. Whether you’re a casual weather observer or a dedicated enthusiast, the right home weather station can open up a fascinating world of meteorological discovery right in your own backyard.
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8 Best Home Weather Station Reviews in 2023
Often the weather reports you see in a weather app are from stations miles away from your location.
Consequently, there can be significant discrepancies in these reports compared to the actual conditions around you. This is why you should consider a home weather station.
The best home weather stations will do what smartphone apps cannot. They’ll tell you exactly what the weather’s doing at your own home, farm, school or business in real-time by measuring atmospheric conditions, such as temperature, relative humidity, barometric pressure, rainfall, wind speed, and wind direction. They can also connect to the Internet, so you can monitor your weather conditions from anywhere and share your findings with other weather enthusiasts.
At A Glance: Our Top 5 Picks for Home Weather Stations in 2023
- Best Overall: Ambient Weather WS-2902C Osprey WiFi 10-in-1
- Best Premium Model: Ambient Weather WS-2000 Smart Weather Station with WiFi
- Most Accurate: Davis Instruments 6152 Vantage Pro2
- Best Ultrasonic Model: Ambient Weather WS-5000 Ultrasonic Weather Station
- Best Budget Model: AcuRite 5-in-1 01512 Wireless Weather Station
Stop depending on that limited weather app and discover what the weather’s really doing outside with a fully-fledged home weather station.
A weather station can withstand the elements to provide many years of service. However, you will need to make sure that you only purchase a reliable and accurate unit from one of the leading manufacturers and avoid the cheaper imitations that won’t last.
Here is our standout pick as the best home weather station overall. Chosen for its affordability and performance advantage—we recommend the Ambient Weather WS-2902C WiFi 10-in-1 (click here to check the price).
Our team of editors independently research, test, and recommend the best products to help you navigate when shopping online. This post contains compensated links, and if you make a purchase using the links included, we may earn a commission. To learn more, read our disclaimer.
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Best Overall | Ambient Weather WS-2902C Osprey WiFi 10-in-1
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
Best Premium Model | Ambient Weather WS-2000 Smart Weather Station with WiFi
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
Most Accurate | Davis Instruments 6152 Vantage Pro2
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
Best Ultrasonic Model | Ambient Weather WS-5000 Ultrasonic Weather Station
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
Best Budget Model | AcuRite 5-in-1 01512 Wireless Weather Station
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
Davis Instruments 6250 Vantage Vue
| VIEW ON AMAZON → | |
AcuRite 01007M Atlas Weather Station
| VIEW ON AMAZON → | |
La Crosse Technology C85845 Wireless Forecast Station
| VIEW ON AMAZON → |
5 seconds with a 1,000ft (300m) wireless transmission range
5 second reporting interval from the sensor suite to the consoleTable of Contents
Here Are the Best Home Weather Station Reviews
We continually research all of the best weather stations on the market, perform our own tests, and read reviews from real owners to produce the analysis and ratings of the home weather stations you’ll see below.
1. Best Overall: Ambient Weather WS-2902C Osprey WiFi 10-in-1
CHECK PRICE ON AMAZON
The Ambient Weather WS-2902C Osprey provides the best value for money compared to any other personal weather station on the market right now. As a result, it is our number one recommendation.
If you’re looking for an affordable, accurate, and reliable weather station, then this best-selling model from Ambient Weather is your answer.
In 2020 Ambient Weather has upgraded the very popular WS-2902A model. The WS-2902B update added additional sensor support, and now the WS-2902C has a new, user-friendly layout on the display console to make the wind information more prominent.
The WS-2902C can support a combination of up to eight Wh41 thermo-hygrometer sensors, and Wh41P probed thermometers. One indoor and one outdoor PM2.5 air quality sensor can also be added to the system. However, these sensors do not display on the console. Instead, the console acts as a hub to connect the sensors and display the data on the Ambient Weather Network.
If you want to add additional sensors to your station and view the data directly on the console, take a look at our premium pick—the WS-2000.
This solar-powered WiFi connectable station can measure wind speed, wind direction, rainfall, UV, solar radiation, barometric pressure, outdoor temperature and humidity, indoor temperature and humidity, dew point, heat index, wind chill, and more.
The wireless outdoor sensor transmits updated readings every 16 seconds to the LCD color display console, and it has a 330ft wireless range. The best feature of the WS-2902C is the built-in WiFi connectivity, which enables a straightforward setup with Weather Underground and the Ambient Weather Network. Through either of these networks, you will be able to remotely view real-time and historical conditions from your phone, tablet, or computer.
The weather station can also integrate with Google Assistant and Amazon Alexa, which means you can ask a compatible device (e.g.
, Amazon Echo or Google Home) for the current indoor or outdoor conditions, and you’ll receive your very own local weather report. There is also IFTTT compatibility to control other smart devices throughout your home with automatic triggers.
The Ambient Weather WS-2902C is the perfect model for weather enthusiasts who need a reliable, user-friendly, and accurate weather station without breaking the bank.
Click here to check the price of our #1 recommendation: the Ambient Weather WS-2902C on Amazon
Read full review:
Ambient Weather WS-2902C Review
2. Best Premium Model: Ambient Weather WS-2000 Smart Weather Station with WiFi
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The WS-2902C wowed us with its connectivity and value for money, and for these reasons, it still holds the top spot as our number one recommendation. However, for those looking for a premium yet affordable option that supports additional sensors, then the Ambient Weather WS-2000 is the station to buy.
The WS-2000 is a direct upgrade of the WS-2902C. It uses the same sensor array, so you get all the same instruments of the best-selling WS-2902C with the added capability to connect extra sensors and have them show up on not just the Ambient Weather Network, but the display console as well for easy viewing.
You can install a combination of up to eight additional Wh41 thermo-hygrometer sensors, Wh41P probe thermometers, and Wh41SM soil moisture sensors. There’s also functionality to include four Wh41LA leak detectors, a Wh41L lightning detector, and one indoor and one outdoor PM2.5 air quality sensor.
Another major upgrade in the WS-2000 package over the WS-2902C is the display console. It comes with a full-color HD TFT display, which has excellent viewing angles and is very easy to read. It’s the best display console out of all the models we’ve tested. The setup of the WS-2000 is also completed through the console rather than an app, making it more straightforward.
Just like the WS-2902C, you will still get the best-in-class connectivity to a wide variety of smart home platforms, including IFTTT, Amazon Alexa, and Google Assistant. You’ll also have the ability to upload your weather data to Ambient Weather’s cloud service and Weather Underground.
If you have the extra funds, this station should be on the top of your list. The WS-2000 addresses a lot of the issues we had with the WS-2902C and is definitely worth the higher price tag.
3. Most Accurate: Davis Instruments 6152 Vantage Pro2
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The Davis Vantage Pro2 is as close to a professional-grade station as you’ll get without paying thousands of dollars for it. It’s also one of the only remaining stations with a cabled option in case wireless doesn’t work for you. While its accuracy is unparalleled and its construction top-notch, internet connectivity is an extra expense.
You can purchase the WeatherLink Live Hub to stream data to the WeatherLink cloud via WiFi.
The hub also offers the capability to add a combination of up to 8 sensor transmitters or weather stations. You’ll spend a little more time setting up the Davis Pro2 over more basic models. However, we highly recommend the Davis Vantage Pro2 for its superior accuracy, fast reporting intervals, and durability.
For those who require precise readings, the Vantage Pro2 will be the best weather station for you. The Pro2 is one of the very few weather stations on the market where the anemometer is separate from the temp, humidity, and rain sensors so you can mount it on a roof or a tower for the most accurate wind readings. The other sensors can then be placed at 5-6 feet in accordance with the official guidelines.
Read full review:
Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 Review
4. Best Ultrasonic Model: Ambient Weather WS-5000 Ultrasonic Weather Station
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The Ambient Weather WS-5000 is one of the most advanced personal weather stations we’ve tested, as well as one of the most expandable.
Ambient Weather has redesigned the sensor suite, which now includes an ultrasonic anemometer.
The WS-5000’s sensors were much more accurate in our tests than previous Ambient Weather stations. The ultrasonic anemometer is a welcome addition, which has proven to be a much more precise method to measure wind speed and direction. The anemometer also has no moving parts to wear out, which should extend its useable life.
The rain gauge includes an extra-large funnel that improves accuracy, and it’s also wireless so that you can place it close to the ground in an optimal position for measurements and cleaning.
The capability to add just about any sensor you can think of, including air quality, soil moisture, water temperature, and a lightning sensor, makes the WS-5000 one of the most expandable stations on the market.
The best-in-class color LCD console first introduced with the WS-2000 is also the WS-5000’s console, but with the new sensor suite, the station can send data to the console in just 4.
9 seconds. That’s a dramatic improvement.
Of course, there’s the Ambient Weather Network and the app to view your data remotely, and the company has made it super easy to share your station’s data publicly through Weather Underground. Its smart home connectivity is best in class, offering IFTTT compatibility to connect your station to dozens of other smart home devices.
If you’re looking for a step up from the WS-2902C, with accuracy that rivals any Davis station, the WS-5000 is the home weather station for you. And even with all the advanced functionality, the WS-5000 is still quite affordable.
Read full review:
Ambient Weather WS-5000 Review
5. Best Budget Model: AcuRite 5-in-1 01512 Wireless Weather Station
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The AcuRite 5-in-1 01512 is an excellent starter model for weather enthusiasts of all ages. It includes most of the features you will see in the value range weather stations at a budget price. You won’t get internet connectivity with the 01512.
However, you can upgrade to the ‘Internet Connected’ model on Amazon. The ‘Internet Connected’ version comes with an AcuRite Access module for connectivity with the My AcuRite platform where you can monitor conditions from anywhere using a smartphone, tablet, or computer.
The AcuRite 01512 can measure nearly everything that the higher-end Atlas does, but it falls behind when it comes to precision and build quality. The 5-in-1 sensor suite can measure temperature, humidity, wind speed, wind direction, and rainfall. The display is basic but easy to read with an adjustable dimmer, and it also features a battery backup should the power go out.
We’ve tested the AcuRite 5-in-1 sensor unit and found its accuracy to be acceptable as long as the station wasn’t in direct sun. Direct sunlight caused temperatures to read higher and humidity lower than it was supposed to.
If you’re looking for a very affordable model with all the essential features for monitoring the weather at your home, then the AcuRite 01512 is going to be the best cheap weather station for you.
Just don’t expect the same degree of accuracy or durability as the more expensive weather stations.
6. Davis Instruments 6250 Vantage Vue
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If the high-end Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2 is a bit too rich for your blood, stepping down to the Vantage Vue model is a smart move. You’ll still get the accuracy Davis is known for, but in an integrated package that is much easier to set up due to its all-in-one sensor suite. That said, the desktop console still feels dated, and the all-in-one sensor suite means you won’t be able to place some sensors in an optimal position for the most accurate readings.
This is why we have the Vantage Pro2 listed ahead of it. Although, as it retails at a more affordable price point and still maintains a high level of performance, we highly recommend the Davis Vantage Vue for serious weather enthusiasts on a budget. Like the Pro2, the Vantage Vue can also connect to the Internet and allow additional sensors via the WeatherLink Live Hub, which sells separately.
Read full review:
Davis Instruments Vantage Vue Review
7. AcuRite 01007M Atlas Weather Station
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The AcuRite 01007M Atlas Weather Station is a top contender among the value range weather stations. We found that the accuracy of the AcuRite is where this particular station shines above the competition.
In our tests, the Atlas scored favorably against other stations in its class, even besting the Vantage Vue in temperature and humidity accuracy in direct sunlight. The Atlas includes an aspirating fan in the thermometer and humidity sensor housing, ensuring heat isn’t building up inside the shielding, where the Vantage Vue does not.
If you previously owned an older AcuRite 5-in-1 model, you will appreciate the upgraded sensors of the Atlas which provide far more accurate readings. AcuRite has also rated the Atlas wind vane to work at speeds of up to 160mph and increased reporting frequency to every 10 seconds.
Installation of this station is straightforward, thanks to the integrated tightening knob on the sensor suite for pole mounting setups. The My AcuRite app and Access module make connecting to the Internet, and remote monitoring for mobile devices a breeze.
The Atlas weather station’s expandability and the HD touchscreen display console are also noteworthy features. We especially appreciate the optional wind extension kit. A feature that no other weather station in this price range offers right now.
Read full review:
AcuRite Atlas Review
8. La Crosse Technology C85845 Wireless Forecast Station
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La Crosse Technology has several entry-level stations, and the C85845 is one of our favorite small weather stations. You’ll get the bare minimum in weather readings—indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity, along with barometric pressure trends and a weather forecast. The display is easy-to-read, and the brightness can be adjusted.
You can also set customizable alerts for temperature and humidity and quickly view the daily minimum and maximum readings on the console.
La Crosse’s C85845 is a nice station for those just looking for the basics—temperature, humidity, and expected weather. We also like the atomic clock option, so you never have to set the clock again. That said, functionality is limited, and without any expandability, you may find yourself purchasing a full weather station in the future.
Important Factors to Consider When Buying a Home Weather Station
Let’s take a look at the factors you need to consider and the features you need to look for when buying a personal weather station.
Purpose and Sensor Requirements
The biggest consideration is what you need a weather station for. Are you looking for something basic to get an idea of the weather in your backyard? Are you a farmer or gardener looking to monitor weather conditions to make sure your crops are growing in an optimal environment? Or are you a weather enthusiast that wants to track the weather closely and compare your observations to others nearby? This all matters in deciding what features and sensors you need when you’re searching for the best weather station.
At a minimum, you’ll want a weather station that provides the following:
- Indoor and Outdoor Temperature and Humidity
- Barometric Pressure
- Rainfall Measurements
- Wind Speed and Direction
These are the basics that any weather station should have. From here, other features depend on your preferences.
If you’re outdoors often, stations that measure UV index, solar radiation, or can sense nearby lightning are useful, while gardeners and farmers might find leaf and soil moisture/soil temperature sensors worthwhile. If you just need to monitor the temperature and humidity inside your home, then you might want to consider using a WiFi thermometer with remote monitoring capabilities or a hygrometer.
Ambient Weather’s WS-2902C includes all of the essential instruments and more.
Accuracy and Reporting Frequency
A personal weather station is worthless if it incorrectly measures weather conditions. Now is a good time to mention that you will get what you pay for.
The weather stations and indoor outdoor thermometers you see at local department stores are usually far less accurate compared to professional grade weather stations such as the Davis Pro2.
The best weather stations will also update observations more frequently, some as quickly as every 2.5 seconds versus 30 seconds or more for lower-end models.
Transmission Distance
Your station needs to be installed within a certain distance to communicate with the console. Most wireless weather stations have a transmission distance of 330 feet between the console and the sensors. Some premium stations can work up to 1000 feet away.
Internet Connectivity and Smart Home Features
The best WiFi weather stations allow you to connect to them via an app or website. Most of them also enable you to upload your weather data to places like Weather Underground where your data will be displayed alongside other personal weather stations around the world.
Some models have smart home capabilities that let you do all kinds of cool things, like connect to IFTTT.
For example, when it rains, your weather station could trigger your smart sprinkler system to turn off and conserve water.
Solar Power
A solar powered weather station will give you years of use with minimal maintenance as you won’t need to worry about changing the batteries very often. The solar panels in these stations power the sensors during the daytime, and some models also have a supercapacitor which is charged at the same time for use as a power source. Batteries are also used for backup power.
We recommend installing lithium batteries, especially if you live in a colder climate. Lithium batteries are much more resilient in extreme temperatures, and they generally last longer than alkaline batteries.
Upgrade Options
Don’t just think about the present when you invest in a home weather station. Our needs change, and the last thing you want to do is be stuck with a model that has no expandability. If you can afford it, opt for a model that allows you to add additional sensors as your needs grow.
Durability
Lower-priced weather stations cut corners to reduce the overall cost. One of these areas is construction, by using cheaper and subsequently less durable materials, the manufacturers can offer inexpensive models. Remember that your weather station is going to be out in the elements year round, and in potentially extreme conditions. If you can afford to purchase a high-end home weather station, do it, you’ll have something that lasts a whole lot longer as a result.
Your Budget
We understand that you’re not made of money, and in the end, the price is still going to play a role in your purchasing decision. That said, you’ll need to at least expect to spend somewhere in the order of $150-$200 USD for a decent home weather system. The best personal weather stations can easily approach $1,000 USD with all the bells and whistles. Figure out what you can spend before you start your search and work from there.
Where Is the Best Location to Install a Personal Weather Station?
Proper siting is the most critical factor in ensuring accurate readings from your sensors.
You’ll need to keep a few basic things in mind when choosing a location.
- Your temperature and humidity sensors need to be in full shade or partial shade if you don’t have a station with radiation shielding, with optimal placement at “eye level” (5-6 feet).
- Your rain gauge needs to be level and high enough so that it doesn’t get splashback from the ground, and away from obstructions.
- Official wind speed and direction measurements are taken at the height of 33 feet, and well above any obstructions. We understand that this may be unachievable for most people. Therefore, mounting your anemometer on your roof above the roofline will deliver the best results.
- If you have a station with an all-in-one sensor suite, you will have to make a compromise between the ideal height of the anemometer and temp/humidity/rain sensors. The best option is to go somewhere in between, 10 feet or higher is ideal.
- If you are mounting the weather station to a house or structure, be sure to run a ground wire.
- Remember that wherever you place your station, it should be in a place that’s easy to access. Weather stations need to be maintained and cleaned.
For more help, read our definitive guide on siting instructions with mounting ideas and solutions here.
Final Thoughts
The Ambient Weather Osprey WS-2902C is our Editor’s top recommendation and best value for money option. Photo ©KJ Davis
The home weather station market continues to advance each year. The latest and best home weather stations now incorporate smart home features, expandability options, and user-friendly internet connectivity. Observing the weather at home with a personal weather station has never been easier.
If you are looking for the perfect mix of value and functionality, the Ambient Weather WS-2902C Osprey WiFi 10-in-1 will be the best weather station for you. The built-in WiFi connectivity allows a straightforward setup, and the smart home options are unrivaled.
The WS-2902C is an excellent unit for aspiring weather enthusiasts and first-time weather station owners.
If you need to add additional sensors to your station, then we recommend the Ambient Weather WS-2000 Smart Weather Station. It has the same sensor suite as the best-selling WS-2902C, with the added capability to connect additional thermo-hygrometer sensors, soil moisture sensors, probed thermometers, leak detectors, a lightning detector, and an indoor and outdoor PM2.5 air quality sensor. This upgraded model also has one of the best display consoles we’ve seen.
If you are an avid weather enthusiast and money is not an issue, we recommend the Davis Instruments Vantage Pro2. It is by far the most accurate home weather station available. This station is in a class of its own.
Esports: the new giant of competitive sports
As technology advances and audiences grow, esports will continue to grow at a rapid pace. We touched on 5 areas of particular interest in the future:
Interaction technology: when we spoke with Josh, he mentioned how shockingly underrated esports is: in this kind; in eSports it is about $3.
In eSports, viewers are used to getting too much for free.”
Josh sees improved fan experiences as a way to monetize. “When you watch a sports game, there are better ways than we’ve always used to watch football, lacrosse or the NBA. Esports is a digital game, so there must be ways to enhance the viewer experience.”
“For example, if I watch LoL with all my friends, can I pay to have my face literally on the map, or other fun stuff like that? If I could put Josh in the middle of a premier league match on the pitch for 10 minutes, would I pay $1k for it? Maybe yes! E”
“As the fan base grows from 500 million people watching esports to 1B – 1.5B, if you can figure out how to get at least $11 from each of these people, then you can say that esports going from a billion dollar industry to a $10B+ industry.”
Content diversification: Kuaishou, a leading short video production company, participated in the recent $100 million VSPN fundraiser.
VSPN CEO, Dino Yin, sees short videos as “an important part of our future strategy.”
This is the first signal that esports is branching out to cover different forms of content, which will dramatically increase its reach.
Keeping up with social media trends and creating content will be key for brands and firms looking to the future of esports. Collaborations with influencers, celebrities and platforms are on the horizon. Watch out TikTok.
Augmented reality: Already a hallmark of events, AR will continue to enrich the esports experience. On the horizon is the integration of real games and virtual competitions.
Think of a LoL amusement park, but built entirely in AR. Or AR versions of the world’s leagues in different locations, all in real time. In the words of Dino Ying, “the possibilities are endless.”
Rate change: A fast-growing, high-volatility industry has its pitfalls. Josh warns investors in esports teams to move on.
