If you want reliable weather data, investing in a professional weather station is surely the best option. In today's environment, most major brands are competing to develop increasingly sophisticated and extremely accurate versions. Use our buying guide to make the best investment.
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Our selection
"To better schedule your days, whether on weekdays, weekends or vacations, the Froggit HP1000SE Pro will offer ultra complete information."
"This weather station provides a wide range of highly accurate measurements and is distinguished by its design and display quality."
"The top of the line in high-end professional weather stations, this equipment combines true high-tech design with unquestionable measurement accuracy."
"It is a high-performance radio-controlled equipment with 8 monobloc sensors, extremely precise and yet easy to use. With a range of 300 in free field,…"
To better schedule your days, whether on weekdays, weekends or vacations, the Froggit HP1000SE Pro will offer ultra complete information.
200 £ on Amazon
This weather station provides a wide range of highly accurate measurements and is distinguished by its design and display quality.
127 £ on AmazonWith its 6-in-1 Y-shaped unit (temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind speed and direction, UV rays) and the high accuracy of its measurements (+/-1 °C for temperature for example), Froggit WH3000 SE is surely an acquisition you won't regret. Made with robust materials, German origin, the device will meet the highest requirements. The WI-FI module will allow you to receive real-time data from the station on your smartphone, compatible with Android and IOS OS. It also allows you to access your data via Weather Underground.
The outdoor unit is powered by solar energy that continuously recharges the rechargeable batteries. This weather station works even in case of a power outage. The indoor unit, on the other hand, runs on batteries and electricity. The color LCD display, measuring approximately 18.5 x 11.7 cm, lights up continuously if the indoor unit is connected to the mains. Finally, installation is easy and the settings are fairly straightforward.
The top of the line in high-end professional weather stations, this equipment combines true high-tech design with unquestionable measurement accuracy.
589 £ on AmazonDavis Instruments DAV-6152EU is without doubt the cream of the crop in the category of high-end professional stations. The manufacturer has gone all out with this device: state-of-the-art technology, extremely accurate measurements and forecasts with variable analysis, exceptional resistance thanks to shielded ventilation and protection systems, and a transmission range of 300 m. The temperature accuracy is ±0.5°C and the humidity accuracy ±3%.
Another unique advantage is that it is a radio-controlled system using FHSS or frequency hopping spread spectrum technology. Such a system alternately transmits data via several channels distributed in a frequency band, which offers high resistance to interference and reduces the risk of interception. In addition, you can install other additional sensors to obtain measurements of soil moisture, for example.
It is a high-performance radio-controlled equipment with 8 monobloc sensors, extremely precise and yet easy to use. With a range of 300 in free field, it has a digital display.
286 £ on ConradDavis Instruments DAV-6250 is a great option if you're looking for a high-performance model for less than $500. Its autonomous monitoring system and its advanced technology, yet combined with simplicity of use make the strengths of this device. It is a radio-controlled equipment, whose range can be increased via a connection to relays 7626EU and 7627 EU.
Equipped with 8 fully integrated sensors, it measures temperature, humidity, rainfall, wind speed and direction, and barometric pressure with unequalled accuracy and in real time thanks to the Vantage vue system. The data is communicated every 2 seconds to the radio console up to a range of 300 m and you can view the forecast thanks to a graphic evaluation of the measurements on the LCD screen.
Any specific needs?
The best professional weather station for less than 300 euros
The best professional weather station for less than 200 euros
The best professional weather station for more than 600 euros
The best professional weather station for less than 500 euros
Your guide :
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| Less than 300 euros | Less than 200 euros | More than 600 euros | Less than 500 euros | |
In accordance with our commitment, this buying guide does not contain any sponsored products. |
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8/10 |
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| OUR SELECTION |
Froggit HP1000SE Pro
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Froggit WH3000 SE
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Davis instruments DAV-6152EU
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Davis instruments DAV-6250EU
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To better schedule your days, whether on weekdays, weekends or vacations, the Froggit HP1000SE Pro will offer ultra complete information.
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This weather station provides a wide range of highly accurate measurements and is distinguished by its design and display quality.
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The top of the line in high-end professional weather stations, this equipment combines true high-tech design with unquestionable measurement accuracy.
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It is a high-performance radio-controlled equipment with 8 monobloc sensors, extremely precise and yet easy to use. With a range of 300 in free field, it has a digital display.
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Installation
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Weather forecasting
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Wi-Fi module
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Temperature, humidity, precipitation, wind direction, wind speed, UV
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Measurement types
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Wettercloud/WOW/Wind Alarm/ LCD Color Display
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Outdoor temperature, relative humidity, solar radiation, UV value, precipitation, wind speed and direction
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Outdoor/indoor temperature, humidity, precipitation, air pressure, wind speed and direction
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Indoor and outdoor temperature, indoor and outdoor humidity, air pressure, precipitation, wind speed and direction
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Specifics
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Color LCD/Android-IOS/Weather Underground
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Range 300m/Up to 100 graphics on screen
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300m range/Analog display
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This is an essential part of your purchase. A professional weather station that is too complicated to set up will be a source of frustration and a reason to return. For this reason, look for products that have a manual in French or English at the very least. This is simple enough, but many models on the market have manuals in other languages.
Next, a good professional weather station should give the right time. For this, you have to rely on reputable brands. This is logical, because we are talking about high-end products for professionals with reliable sensors. Among these, we can mention : La Crosse Technology, Davis Instruments, Netatmo or Froggit.
It would be abnormal to have to wait for the storm to stop in order to be able to read the different data. Prefer equipment that allows you to visualize the data well. In this sense, the size of the screen and the quality of the display play a major role in the choice of your investment. Since a professional weather station normally takes a large number of measurements, a screen that is too small or has a blurry display will not allow you to view the data optimally.
Before any purchase, list on a piece of paper the types of data you want to take. In order to take data, professional weather stations use sensors such as int/ext humidity with an accuracy of +/-5% or barometric pressure with an accuracy of +/-0.08 inHg for a range of 27.13 to 32.50 inHg for example. This affects the price of the product. So, choose a professional weather station that fits your needs.
Finally, also pay attention to the features such as the number, type of alerts, the duration of the forecast (one week or 25 days?) that it can give. In order to receive data at any time, turn to models with WI-FI connectivity.
Taking into consideration parameters like the range of your device is also crucial. Keep in mind that the station's sensors and receivers must necessarily interact effectively to ensure reliable information. Thus, first identify where the sensors and probes will be installed and check the range of your equipment before it is acquired.
Also determine the data transmission time as well as the update frequency because these parameters influence the reliability of the forecasts. And don't forget to ask about the longevity of your device. You can find models that work optimally for a good ten years.
Compared to basic models, professional weather stations follow specific design and operation rules that we will present to you.
First of all, in order to be called a professional weather station, a piece of equipment must generally take the following measurements
There are more sophisticated devices that can take additional readings such as soil moisture, dry and wet temperature or even lightning detection. But generally speaking, professional weather stations offer a wide range of measurements (e.g. -30°C to 99°C for temperature) as well as high data accuracy.
A professional weather station combines a range of individual weather instruments into one station. In fact, it is equipped with a large number of sensors and probes that collect climatological data such as temperature or relative humidity, in real time and accurately. Then, the measurements are transmitted to a receiver with a visual interface, through which you can consult the forecast.
For models with WiFi connection, the transmission is made to sites like Weather Underground or Weather Cloud. In some cases, the data can also be communicated on radio frequency, via an Ethernet port or by GPRS connection.
Most professional weather stations are grouped in this category. Indeed, in most cases, these equipments aim at taking measurements on a precise locality and generally cannot be moved once installed.
Their design takes this parameter into account and they often offer better resistance to the whims of Mother Nature. There are models that come with the entire installation arsenal. But in some cases, you have to improvise a pillar, whose height is not necessarily very high. Comply with the instructions.
As their names suggest, these pieces of equipment are space-saving and can be installed and uninstalled as you wish. It depends mainly on your needs. Apart from the fact that they are often very practical and easy to use, these stations offer a better design.
They are ideal if you need to obtain measurements on several plots in your fields and do not want to invest in several fixed stations. The only catch is that they are often less robust models, which require extra care during transport and handling.
This is probably the most powerful model on the market, ideal for farmers and other categories of professionals. With unquestionable accuracy, these weather stations allow you to make the best decisions in real time. In addition to the classic data provided by the basic versions, these devices have additional features such as the measurement of dry and wet temperature or soil data.
Professional agricultural weather stations also offer precise forecasts such as the risk of frost for example. They provide a graphical interpretation of the data in an optimal time and transmit the data via GPRS. And since they are designed for agricultural use, they offer incomparable resistance to weather and crop conditions.
The main advantage of a solar powered professional weather station is its low cost of operation but also the fact that it is completely environmentally friendly. These models actually focus on running on renewable energy 24 hours a day without relying on electrical power.
In fact, this type of weather station is equipped with a battery or batteries that are recharged with solar energy during the day. It can thus provide continuous operation if your location receives sufficient solar exposure. These weather stations are very popular in the business world as they can usually operate automatically.
As the name suggests, these models are characterized by a mixed power supply, both solar and electric. Depending on the circumstances, you can either activate the electric operation, thanks to a connection on sector or thanks to electric batteries, or make the station work with solar energy.
This equipment is suitable if the region where the station is installed does not benefit from optimal sunlight. In this case, the electric power supply takes over. You can find on the market devices whose conversion of the type of energy is done automatically according to the conditions. The disadvantage is, of course, the additional cost if you have frequent recourse to the power supply.
Both types of professional weather stations have their advantages and disadvantages. Your investment will depend mainly on the climatic conditions of the installation area. If your location has sufficient sunshine, the ideal solution is to opt for a solar powered professional weather station. Otherwise, it is better to choose the hybrid version.
Professional weather stations offer several advantages and are intended for agricultural, industrial or any other field that requires reliable data. We outline their advantages in 6 points.
A complete range of measurements
From temperature to UV radiation rate, through classical data such as relative humidity, rainfall, wind characteristics, or even soil surveys, you can have the totality to make the best decision for your farm. In addition, on some devices, you can install additional sensors if you want to take additional readings.
Exceptional data accuracy
One of the characteristics that makes a model "professional" is undoubtedly the accuracy of measurements. In fact, a professional weather station is necessarily designed according to precise international standards and norms, enabling it to take readings of unquestionable reliability. The inputs and outputs of the sensors and probes are all standardized.
State-of-the-art technology
The high-tech system offered by professional weather stations allows you to obtain a meticulous analysis of the measurements taken. Most of the time, you can visualize interpretation graphs, making it easier to read the data. This way, you have all the information you need to make the right decision in real time.
Moreover, the professional models offered are often equipped with software allowing the storage and retrieval of data. Thus, you can not only access the measurement history but also obtain very reliable weather forecasts. A WiFi or Ethernet connection as well as data transfer via GPRS or GSM can also be included in the options.
Durability and longevity
The design of the professional weather stations is perfectly suited for use in agricultural, industrial or extreme outdoor conditions.
The materials used are highly resistant and the batteries even have an additional protective coating. This type of equipment offers exceptional longevity, lasting up to ten years or more.
Easy to install and use
Although professional weather stations are characterized by advanced technology, you don't need a degree in meteorology to use them. There are models that are very easy to install and come with the necessary accessories. Afterwards, the reading of the data is often done in an automatic way as well as their update.
In our opinion, the best brands of professional weather stations in 2022 are :
Davis Instruments is a leader in the professional weather station market. It stands out from the competition by using highly advanced technology to design increasingly powerful, versatile and resistant models. The Vantage Pro and Vantage vue systems provide, among other things, extremely accurate measurements over a very wide range of data.
The French brand La Crosse Technology is often cited as a world reference in the manufacture of weather stations. The models come in a wide range from simple products to sophisticated devices intended for professional use. La Crosse Technology offers a wide range of state-of-the-art equipment, with high reliability and ultramodern design.
Pioneer of smart weather stations, Netatmo provides connected models with chic and futuristic design. Its conveniently designed products are paired with mobile equipment for both external and internal use. Despite a rather appreciable resistance, Netatmo models know a domestic use in the majority of cases.
Although it is not as well known as its counterparts specialized in the design of weather stations, the Froggit brand is among the best companies manufacturing professional models. The high precision of its equipment combined with remarkable performance and excellent display quality make Froggit one of the future brands in the field.
The Chinese brand Curconsa is proving to be a strong competitor in the professional weather station sector. It is ingenious in the design of connected devices, with monobloc sensors, of appreciable reliability and resistant to the weather. Curconsa offers mixed power equipment for sale, both solar and mains operated.
The diagram below will help you to get an idea of the typical prices for each price range (entry-level, mid-range and high-end).
However, more expensive does not necessarily mean better.
We therefore advise you to always consult our ranking before deciding, rather than blindly relying on price ranges.
Clean the sensors
Keep in mind that the sensors require systematic cleaning every year. This is to ensure that the assembly is easily accessible. Most sensors can usually be cleaned in a simple manner, using a soft, damp cloth.
Install the sensors correctly
As the majority of professional weather stations are wireless equipment, they work best in an open area. The sensor array will normally need to be mounted some distance from buildings, structures or trees. Generally, this distance should be 4 times the height of the tallest obstacle.
Also, make sure that all sensors are installed at a height of 1.5 to 2 m above the ground to avoid interference of soil parameters on their operation. And prefer a location away from heat sources, air-conditioning devices, asphalt or concrete.
To choose the best location for the console
The console also will have to be placed in a well-chosen dry place to guarantee an optimal functioning of the station. First, choose a dry, clean location. Then consider best practices RFI (radio interference) and EMI (electromagnetic interference).
You should place the console several feet away from televisions and computer monitors, but also turn off nearby devices that have the same transmission frequency as your unit if you have a radio-controlled model.
What to do with some fragile equipment
There are professional weather station models that are not built to withstand the elements. Such units do not come with protective shields for the sensors, so you need to create specific shelters to avoid exposing them to direct sunlight. However, you must ensure that the interior of the shelter is properly ventilated.
To ensure optimal operation of mobile equipment
Professional mobile weather stations are not designed to withstand winter temperatures and it is often necessary to uninstall them as soon as the cold weather sets in. However, be sure to put your equipment back in place as soon as winter ends to avoid inaccurate forecast patterns. Also, be sure to always carry your equipment in its original case to ensure better durability.
A professional weather station is built according to specific international meteorological standards, established by the World Meteorological Organization for example. As a result, unquestionably accurate measurements, better performance, and resistance to extreme conditions differentiate this type of model from their basic counterparts.
The spacing between the console and the sensor array is a major criterion on optimal operation. A professional weather station is generally characterized by its range that should not be exceeded. On average, it is around 100 m, but for the most advanced models, it can reach 300 m. If you ever exceed the range, either you do not receive any data, or the info received is not reliable.
You must first check that the installation of the sensors and the location of the console are in accordance with the required parameters (distance, height, distance from metal and connected objects, etc.). Then reset your equipment. Your weather station should operate normally after the next forecast update. Also note that for some equipment, data transmission cannot occur if the device's WiFi connection is not engaged.
If your equipment has WiFi functionality, you can control your station via a tablet or smartphone just like with basic models. With a connected professional weather station, you can also either communicate your data or check forecasts on sites like Weatherground to compare the measurements taken.
Thestandardized design of professional weather stations, including the implementation of a high number of sensors and probes, ensures that the measurements taken by a professional weather station are impeccably reliable. For example, temperature is often accurate to within +/-1°C, while relative humidity is accurate to within +/-5%. And it is even possible to have an accuracy of 0.1°C on temperature readings for the most sophisticated models such as professional agricultural weather stations.
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