For your baby’s first thermometer, go with an inexpensive digital model. Look for an LCD display that’s easy to read and a start button that’s easy to press. But don’t be swayed by digital thermometers that claim to take a reading in an instant. A reading in 20 to 60 seconds is quick enough.

Get more quick shopping tips in the 10th edition of the Consumer Reports Guide to Baby Products, and learn more about baby thermometers and taking baby's temperature in our full report.