Data Logger
Disc Maxi 3 in 1 with Alerts - Bluetooth Enabled Temperature, Humidity and Dew Point Logger
Monitor and log temperature, humidity, and dew point with precision using the Disc Maxi 3-in-1 — a p...
Comparison Guide
Temperature Sensors: The Honest Comparison
Tired of vague marketing claims? We've done the research on HOBO, SensorPush, Govee, and InTemp temperature sensors - including the hard questions about data privacy, Chinese manufacturing, and private equity consolidation. No spin, just facts.
Why Your Choice of Temperature Sensor Matters
Whether you're monitoring a walk-in freezer for HACCP compliance, tracking vaccine storage temperatures, or managing pharmaceutical cold chain - your temperature sensor is only as good as its weakest point. Accuracy that drifts, batteries that die silently, apps that frustrate - these aren't minor inconveniences. They're failures that can cost you money, compliance status, or worse.
But there's more to consider than just specs: Where is your data going? Govee (owned by Shenzhen Intellirocks) stores your data under Chinese data laws. Who owns the company? HOBO and InTemp are now both controlled by private equity firm Battery Ventures after LI-COR's April 2024 acquisition. Where is it manufactured? Blue Maestro is proudly designed and manufactured in Montgomery, Texas, USA.
This guide shares what we've learned from customers who switched to Blue Maestro, independent testing, and the questions other comparison sites won't ask.
Ditch the HOBO
Professional specs shouldn't mean professional debt
HOBO / Onset
Acquired by LI-COR - Market Consolidation
In April 2024, LI-COR Environmental acquired Onset (makers of HOBO and InTemp). This private equity-backed consolidation is designed to reduce competition and increase pricing power. Battery Ventures' strategy is clear: buy competitors, merge platforms, raise prices. Your costs will only go up.
Source: PRNewswire April 2024Outrageously Expensive
HOBO sensors cost $180-$500+ per unit. The MX1101 temperature/humidity logger runs $180-235, while their soil moisture sensors exceed $500. For the price of one HOBO, you could deploy multiple Blue Maestro sensors across your entire facility.
Source: Instrumart pricingSubscription Required for Cloud
HOBO's cloud platform (HOBOlink/LI-COR Cloud) requires an annual data plan for each device. That's not a one-time purchase - it's a recurring expense that adds up. Blue Maestro offers free cloud access for personal and small business use.
Source: Onset websitePlatform Migration Chaos
In January 2025, Onset forced users to migrate to a new "LI-COR Cloud" platform. During the transition, data older than 1 year was inaccessible - imagine losing access to your compliance records during an audit.
Source: HOBOlink FAQData Loss Risk
Users report devices simply dying and taking all irreplaceable data with them. One reviewer in December 2024: "Recently, a unit simply died, taking all the irreplaceable data with it... Very disappointing."
Source: Trustpilot reviewsHOBO is now owned by LI-COR Environmental (backed by Battery Ventures), part of a consolidation strategy to dominate the data logger market. Expect prices to rise and platform lock-in to increase. Blue Maestro remains independent, focused on delivering professional-grade accuracy at fair prices without subscription games.
Shove SensorPush Aside
Bluetooth-only leaves you in the dark
SensorPush
Expensive WiFi Gateway Required
SensorPush sensors are Bluetooth-only. Want remote monitoring? You'll need their $100 WiFi gateway. That's nearly double the sensor cost just to check temperatures when you're not home. While they don't charge a separate cloud subscription fee, this cost is baked into the comparatively high price of their hardware.
Source: SensorPush websiteBasic Cloud Platform
SensorPush's online platform offers only basic functionality compared to professional solutions. Limited reporting, basic alerting, and minimal integration options leave commercial users wanting more. Blue Maestro's bmCloud provides enterprise-grade features including API access, multi-user management, and comprehensive reporting.
Source: Platform comparisonBluetooth Range Drops With Walls
SensorPush claims 325-foot range - but only with "clear line of sight." In the real world, every wall, door, and appliance reduces that range dramatically. Users report connectivity issues in normal homes, let alone commercial buildings.
Source: Multiple reviewsNot Waterproof
SensorPush sensors lack water resistance, making them unsuitable for humid environments, walk-in coolers with condensation, or anywhere moisture is present. Blue Maestro's Disc Mini offers IP67 waterproof protection.
Source: FarOutRide reviewBattery Life Suffers in Cold
Battery life "can shorten in cold temperatures, leading to more frequent replacements than advertised." For cold chain monitoring, this is a critical flaw. Blue Maestro sensors are designed to operate reliably from -40°C to +125°C.
Source: Multiple reviewsFrustrating App Experience
The SensorPush app always defaults to "hour" view - users must manually change to day or week view for EVERY device, EVERY time. If you install on a new phone, it downloads ALL historical data before showing current readings. "This can take quite a while."
Source: AustereJohn.comSensorPush trapped themselves in a Bluetooth-only design, then tried to sell their way out with an expensive gateway. The result is a patchwork solution that costs more than it should and frustrates users with app limitations and cold-weather battery issues.
够了，Govee！
(gòu le - "Enough already!") Chinese data concerns meet consumer-grade quality
Govee
Chinese Government Data Access
Govee is owned by Shenzhen Intellirocks Tech Co., Ltd., a Chinese company subject to China's 2021 Data Security Law. This law requires companies to provide data to Chinese authorities upon request - no warrant needed. Your temperature logs, facility layouts, and operational patterns could be accessed by the Chinese government. For pharmaceutical, defense, or sensitive facilities, this is a non-starter.
Source: China Data Security Law 2021Data Privacy Concerns
Independent security analysis of the Govee Home app found "SENSITIVE INFO FOUND" with "Privacy Declarations: DISCREPANCY DETECTED." The app collects and shares data that is often designated as sensitive and private. Where does your data really go?
Source: NowSecure App AnalysisNo Professional Certifications
Govee sensors have no FDA compliance, no HACCP certification, no calibration certificates. They're consumer gadgets, not professional instruments. If you need documentation for audits or regulatory compliance, Govee simply won't cut it.
Source: Product specificationsAccuracy Varies Unit to Unit
Users consistently report temperature differences of 1-2°F between identical Govee units placed in the same location. One user had to "adjust all four of their sensors down" because of consistent high reading bias. For compliance monitoring, inconsistent accuracy is unacceptable.
Source: CigarPass forums, Amazon reviewsNot Suitable for Freezers
Govee's temperature range makes them "unsuitable for cold storage monitoring, especially in commercial freezers." If you need to monitor a walk-in freezer at -18°C or below, Govee won't work. Blue Maestro sensors operate down to -40°C.
Source: Weather Station AdvisorGovee is owned by Shenzhen Intellirocks, a Chinese company. Under China's Data Security Law, your monitoring data could be accessed by Chinese authorities. Beyond the data sovereignty concerns, Govee sensors lack accuracy, certifications, and reliability. For professional or sensitive applications, the risks far outweigh the low price.
InTemp? Out of Luck
Same owners as HOBO, same subscription games
InTemp / Onset
Same LI-COR Ownership as HOBO
InTemp is owned by Onset, which was acquired by LI-COR Environmental in April 2024. You're dealing with the same private equity-backed company, the same subscription model, and the same platform consolidation. InTemp and HOBO are now two brands serving one agenda: maximizing subscription revenue.
Source: PRNewswire April 2024App Constantly Crashes
Users report "The app crashes way too often even with settings changes." Others describe "issue after issues with the InTemp loggers, InTemp app, and InTemp website." Even basic functionality like screws that fit the logger is problematic.
Source: App Store ReviewsGateway Plus Annual Subscription
The InTemp CX Gateway requires a $50/year CX Gateway Annual Service Plan per gateway. That's on top of the hardware cost. Want cloud monitoring? Pay yearly. Forever. Blue Maestro offers free cloud for personal and small business use - a fraction of InTemp's costs.
Source: Onset websiteSingle-Use Loggers
Some InTemp models (CX502, CX602, CX702) are single-use only - you cannot reuse them after one shipment. The battery is not replaceable. For ongoing monitoring, you'll keep buying disposable hardware.
Source: InTemp documentationIncompatible Product Lines
The InTemp CX1002 and CX1003 are NOT compatible with the InTemp mobile app or the CX5000 gateway. You can only manage them via the InTempConnect cloud platform - requiring internet access for basic configuration.
Source: InTemp documentationInTemp is HOBO's pharmaceutical-focused sibling, now under the same LI-COR/Battery Ventures umbrella. It inherits all of HOBO's subscription problems plus its own app instability and product fragmentation. Blue Maestro offers the same FDA 21 CFR Part 11 readiness without the subscription trap or platform chaos.
The Blue Maestro Difference
Designed, developed, and manufactured in Montgomery, Texas, USA
Made in USA (Texas)
Blue Maestro designs, develops, and manufactures all sensors in Montgomery, Texas. Your data stays under US jurisdiction - no Chinese data laws, no foreign government access risks.
Laboratory-Grade Accuracy
±0.1°C accuracy across our sensor range - the same precision expected in pharmaceutical and scientific applications, at commercial prices.
5-Year Battery Life
Our Disc Maxi runs up to 5 years on a single battery. No monthly battery swaps, no unexpected failures, no gaps in your data.
HACCP & FDA Compliant
UKAS-traceable calibration certificates, tamper-proof audit trails, and FDA 21 CFR Part 11 compatible data logging. Built for compliance from day one.
Free Cloud for Everyone
bmCloud is free for personal and small business use. No subscriptions, no monthly fees - a fraction of competitors' costs. No private equity games, no hidden costs.
Independent Company
Blue Maestro is not owned by private equity, not consolidated with competitors, and not subject to foreign data laws. We answer to our customers, not investors.
Spec-by-Spec Comparison
The numbers don't lie. See how Blue Maestro compares to HOBO, SensorPush, Govee, and InTemp.
| Feature | Blue Maestro | Govee | SensorPush | HOBO | InTemp |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Manufactured In | USA (Texas) Best | China | USA assembly (some) | USA | USA |
| Data Sovereignty | US jurisdiction Best | China (gov access) | US jurisdiction | US jurisdiction | US jurisdiction |
| Temperature Accuracy | ±0.1°C Best | ±0.3°C (claimed) | ±0.3°C | ±0.2°C | ±0.25°C |
| Data Storage | 100,000 readings Best | Cloud only (2 years) | 20 days on device | Varies by model | 84,650 readings |
| Battery Life | Up to 5 years Best | 6-12 months | ~1 year | 1-2 years | ~1 year |
| Bluetooth Range | 100m / 328ft Best | ~60m with hub | 100m (line of sight) | 30m typical | 30m (100ft) |
| Operating Temperature | -40°C to +125°C Best | -10°C to +50°C | -40°C to +60°C | -20°C to +70°C | -30°C to +70°C |
| Waterproof Rating | IP67 (Disc Mini) Best | Not waterproof | Not waterproof | IP67 (some models) | Not waterproof |
| Calibration Certificate | UKAS traceable Best | Not available | Not available | NIST traceable ($$$) | NIST traceable ($$$) |
| Cloud Subscription | Free for personal & small business Best | Free (limited) | Included (in hardware cost) | Annual plan required | $50/year per gateway |
| Corporate Ownership | Independent Best | Shenzhen Intellirocks | Cousins & Sears | LI-COR / Battery Ventures | LI-COR / Battery Ventures |
| HACCP/FDA Ready | Yes Best | No | Limited | Yes | Yes |
Which Sensor Is Right For You?
Honest recommendations based on your actual needs
Choose Blue Maestro if you need:
- HACCP, FDA, or pharmaceutical compliance
- USA-manufactured sensors (data sovereignty)
- Traceable calibration certificates for audits
- Cold storage monitoring (-40°C capability)
- Long battery life without maintenance
- Professional accuracy at affordable pricing
Avoid Govee if you:
- Have data sovereignty requirements
- Work in pharmaceuticals, defense, or gov't
- Need compliance documentation
- Monitor freezers below -10°C
- Require consistent accuracy across units
SensorPush might work if you:
- Are always within Bluetooth range
- Don't mind paying $100 extra for remote access
- Don't need waterproof sensors
- Accept reduced battery life in cold storage
- Can tolerate the app's UX limitations
Avoid HOBO/InTemp if you:
- Don't want annual subscription fees
- Distrust private equity consolidation
- Need stable platform without migrations
- Want straightforward app experiences
- Prefer independent, customer-focused companies
Blue Maestro Temperature Data Loggers
Professional monitoring. Honest pricing. Free cloud for personal and small business use.
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Temperature Sensor Comparison FAQs
Common questions when comparing temperature monitoring options
Why is Blue Maestro manufactured in the USA (Texas)?
Blue Maestro designs, develops, and manufactures its sensors in Montgomery, Texas. This ensures supply chain security, quality control, and data sovereignty for our customers. Your temperature data never touches Chinese servers or falls under Chinese data laws. For pharmaceutical, defense, and sensitive facilities, US manufacturing isn't just a preference - it's often a requirement.
Is my data safe with Govee (Chinese company)?
Govee is owned by Shenzhen Intellirocks Tech Co., Ltd., a Chinese company subject to China's 2021 Data Security Law. Under this law, Chinese authorities can request access to data without a warrant - and companies must comply. Your temperature logs, facility information, and operational patterns could be accessed by the Chinese government. Independent security analysis of the Govee app found "SENSITIVE INFO FOUND" with privacy discrepancies. For any professional or sensitive application, this poses unacceptable risks.
What is the LI-COR acquisition and why should I care?
In April 2024, LI-COR Environmental (backed by private equity firm Battery Ventures) acquired Onset, the maker of both HOBO and InTemp data loggers. This consolidation gives one company control over multiple competing brands. The typical private equity playbook is to merge platforms, reduce competition, and raise prices. If you're locked into HOBO or InTemp, expect your costs to increase over time.
Is Blue Maestro really more accurate than Govee?
Yes. Blue Maestro sensors offer ±0.1°C accuracy, which is 3x more precise than Govee's claimed ±0.3°C specification. In practice, user reports indicate Govee units can vary by 1-2°F from each other, while Blue Maestro sensors maintain laboratory-grade consistency. For any application where accuracy matters - food safety, pharmaceuticals, wine storage - this difference is significant.
Why is HOBO so expensive compared to Blue Maestro?
HOBO data loggers were originally designed for scientific research and academic institutions with institutional budgets. They include features and specifications most commercial users don't need, and their business model relies on ongoing subscription revenue. Now owned by LI-COR/Battery Ventures, expect prices and subscription fees to continue climbing. Blue Maestro delivers professional-grade accuracy (±0.1°C) and compliance features at a fraction of the cost because we focus on what commercial monitoring actually requires.
Does SensorPush work without the WiFi gateway?
SensorPush sensors work via Bluetooth when you're nearby, storing up to 20 days of data locally. However, for remote monitoring - seeing your temperatures when you're not home - you need their $100 WiFi gateway. This effectively doubles the cost of entry. Blue Maestro sensors also work standalone via Bluetooth, and our gateway provides the same remote monitoring functionality at a competitive total cost of ownership.
Can I use Govee sensors for HACCP compliance?
Govee sensors are not suitable for HACCP compliance. They lack calibration certificates, don't provide the tamper-proof audit trails required by food safety regulations, and their accuracy specifications don't meet professional requirements. Blue Maestro sensors are specifically designed for HACCP compliance with UKAS-traceable calibration certificates and proper documentation for food safety audits.
Which sensor works best in cold storage and freezers?
Blue Maestro sensors operate from -40°C to +125°C, covering everything from deep freezers to high-temperature environments. Govee sensors only work down to -10°C (unsuitable for commercial freezers). SensorPush sensors work to -40°C but only up to +60°C and suffer battery life degradation in cold temperatures. HOBO's standard sensors work to -20°C. For reliable cold chain monitoring, Blue Maestro is the clear choice.
Do I need to pay monthly fees for Blue Maestro cloud monitoring?
Blue Maestro offers free cloud access for personal and small business use. No monthly fees, no subscriptions - just buy your sensors and gateway, and you're set. HOBO requires mandatory annual data plans costing hundreds of dollars, while InTemp charges $50/year per gateway. Blue Maestro's transparent, affordable pricing makes professional monitoring accessible to businesses of all sizes.
What makes Blue Maestro better for professional use?
Blue Maestro combines laboratory-grade accuracy (±0.1°C), compliance-ready features (UKAS calibration, audit trails, FDA 21 CFR Part 11 support), and practical design (5-year battery life, 100m range, IP67 waterproofing) at a price point that makes professional monitoring accessible. Competitors force you to choose between quality and affordability - we deliver both.
I'm currently using HOBO/SensorPush/Govee - is it worth switching?
If you're happy with your current setup and it meets your needs, there's no urgency to switch. However, if you're experiencing accuracy issues, paying subscription fees, frustrated with battery life, or need proper documentation for compliance purposes, Blue Maestro offers a significantly better value proposition. Our sensors can work alongside existing equipment during a transition.
Ready to Upgrade Your Temperature Monitoring?
Experience the difference that professional-grade accuracy, compliance-ready features, and transparent, affordable pricing can make for your operation.