Weather Stations: Better Than the Weather Channel!

I remember back in the day we had a mercury thermometer  hanging on our kitchen window that told not only the temperature inside,  but also outside.  Nowadays, technology has gone far beyond just telling the temperature. Weather stations do it all.

With a weather station  you can learn about humidity levels, wind chill or dew point, wind speed, rainfall, and atmospheric pressure. Stop wasting time waiting for the Weather Channel to talk about your region's weather--never wake up and wonder what the weather is like outside!

Features to Look For

• Visuals
• Look for big, easy to read numerals and images on the LCD screen.
• Some models tend to get cluttered up quickly because they offer so much information.
• Simplicity
• The device should be easy to use so that even children can benefit from having one in the house.
• Speaking of kids, they can learn a lot from a weather station. It is useful for science projects and learning about meteorology.
• Wireless
• Battery operated weather stations can be standing or wall mounted. They require AA batteries  that will have to be replaced about as often as you would replace clock batteries.
• Mounting
• Strictly wall mounting models  tend to look more "traditional".
• Standing models  look more "high-tech" and tend to offer the most features.
• Color
• Oregon Scientific offers a color weather station.  Some may enjoy the brighter display, while others will be happy with the monochrome look since it blends into the wall or into an office.

Pro Weather Stations

Professional weather stations are used by farmers and weather enthusiasts.  A typical system includes rain collector, temperature and humidity sensors, anemometer, and a home receiver.  Prices range from $100 to around $1,000.

Davis Instruments 6152 Wireless Vantage Pro2  Integrated sensor suite includes rain collector, temperature and humidity sensors, anemometer, 40' anemometer cable, and solar panel. Electronic components are housed in a weather-resistant shelter. Upgrade to the 6153,  with a patented, 24-hour fan-aspirated radiation shield.	Davis Instruments 6163 Wireless Vantage Pro2 Plus  Top of the line weather station.  Solar powered integrated sensor suite can transmit weather date up to 1000 feet.  Temperature and humidity sensors are enclosed in patented, solar-powered, 24-hour fan-aspirated radiation shield. Package comes with ISS and indoor receiver.	La Crosse WS-1611TWC-IT Professional Weather Center  This wireless home weather center collects rain data, wind chill, direction, and speed, humidity and temperature.  This is great for when you are planning your next golf outing. Upgrade to the La Crosse WS-1612AL-IT,  or try the cheaper La Crosse WS-1516U-IT.	Oregon Scientific - Professional Wireless Weather  A very easy to use and simple professional weather center.  Unit has USB connectivity,  and 5 sensors to collect weather data.  Upgrade to the Oregon Scientific Weather Station.

Home Weather Stations

Home weather systems typically come with a simple weather sensor and a receiver.  Some access the weather via wireless internet connection.

La Crosse Wireless Weather Station Combo  These two units provide wireless indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity levels.  Main unit has weather forecasting function, calendar, alarm clock, barometric pressure graph, and moon phase icons.	La Crosse Internet-Powered Wireless Weather Station  This station connects to the internet and provides a free, accurate 4 day forecast.  Try the backlit black version.	La Crosse WS-7394U-IT-CH Wireless Forecast Station  Wirelessly records outdoor and indoor temperatures.  This station comes with a weather forecasting function and indoor comfort level icon. Also available in cheaper WS-7014CH  model.	La Crosse WS-9013U Wireless Temperature Station With Date  This affordable weather station monitors indoor and outdoor temperature for around $30.  If you just want an indoor temp/humidity meter, try the La Crosse WS-9410TWC.	La Crosse WS-9016TWC-BP Wireless Sun and Moon Forecast Station  This station monitors outdoor and indoor temperature, barometric tendencies, and indoor humidity.  Comes with a receiver and outdoor sensor.

 

La Crosse WS-9740U-IT Wireless Forecast Station w/ Advanced Icon    This weather station displays temperature and forecast along with a man or woman icon that shows you what clothing is weather appropriate.	La Crosse WS-9023U-IT Wireless Weather Station  This affordable weather stations monitors indoor temp and wireless outdoor temperature and humidity.	Oregon Scientific Wireless Weather Station  Forecasts weather 12 to 24 hours in advance. Displays indoor/outdoor temperatures. Displays current moon phase. Barometric pressure readout.

Handheld Weather Stations

These are great for your next nature hike or camping trip.

Oregon Scientific Handheld Weather Forecaster  This cell phone sized device provides 12 to 24 hour weather forecasts and local temperature and humidity readings.  It also doubles as an alarm clock.	Highgear Terrapod Handheld Weather Station  This is a very rugged device is reliable and user-friendly at an affordable price.

 

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Related Products

GPS Devices	Umbrellas	Sunscreen	Thermometers	Barometers

External Links

• Weather.com
• Hurricanes.gov
• NOAA.gov
• AmbientWeather.com
• BoatersLand.com
• WindFinder.com