Also known as an anemometer, a wind speed meter accurately displays the current air velocity and is most commonly used in sporting activities such as windsurfing, sailing, fishing, and archery. Additionally, anemometers are useful tools for maintaining and installing ventilation and HVAC systems.

There are various types of wind speed meters available, from simple handheld devices with an LCD screen to multifunctional weather systems that also show temperature, humidity, barometric pressure, and rainfall.

Many modern anemometers have wireless or Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with smart devices. This allows the data to be displayed in different units of measurements and to be logged and stored for analysis.

Here are the best wind speed meters available today.

This three-in-one home weather station comprises a weatherproof outdoor sensor and a wireless, digital, full-color LCD with a 100-meter range. The sensor is designed to be mounted on a pole in an open area close to your home and comes with the necessary mounting hardware.

Although the sensor does require three AAA batteries, these will power the unit for up to two years of constant use. The display unit has a six-inch, color screen that fits comfortably in the hand or can be stood upright for tabletop use. It accurately displays the current wind speed, average wind speed, and peak wind speed readings, which are updated every 18 seconds.

In addition, the unit provides information on indoor and outdoor temperatures, humidity levels, wind chill, barometric pressure, and moon phases. So if you are looking for a comprehensive wind speed meter with plenty of functionality, the AcuRite Notos 3-in-1 Weather Station is a great choice.

Key Features
  • Illuminated color display
  • Provides weather forecasts
  • Easy to set up
Specifications
  • Brand: AcuRite
  • Connectivity: Wireless
  • Dimensions: 7.5 x 1.6 x 3.6 inches
  • Power Supply: Battery
  • Display: LCD
Pros
  • Maintenance-free operation
  • 100-meter wireless range
  • Self calibrating
Cons
  • Both units require batteries
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AcuRite Notos 3-in-1 Weather Station

If you are looking for a portable wind speed meter, the BTMETER is a lightweight, handheld option that houses a sensitive, eight-vane velocity sensor. Its backlit LCD shows the current wind speed in several units, including knots, meters per second, and feet per minute, which also makes it suitable for use in HVAC installation.

The meter incorporates Bluetooth connectivity for pairing with smart devices via the free intelligent anemometer app. This increases the range of functions and allows you to log wind data over set periods of time and export it to Excel or a text file.

In addition, the meter has a battery indicator with an auto power-off setting, shows the current temperature in Celsius or Fahrenheit, and has two sensors for determining wind chill factor. If you require long-term, continuous measurements, the meter conveniently attaches to a regular camera tripod and comes complete with a carrying strap, batteries, and soft protective case.

Key Features
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Connects to smart devices
  • 1.5-inch LCD screen
Specifications
  • Brand: BTMETER
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Dimensions: 3.54 x 1.57 x 6.69 inches
  • Power Supply: Battery
  • Display: LCD
Pros
  • Wind chill indicator
  • Highly accurate
  • Tripod mounting hole
Cons
  • Temperature reading is slow to update
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BTMETER Handheld Wind Speed Meter

If you are looking for an easy-to-use wind meter that won't break the bank, the UNI-T Handheld Mini Anemometer is a great option with a wide range of features. It is just over six inches in height, which makes it ideal for taking in your pocket for on-the-spot wind readings.

The display panel has a simple four-button interface and a digital screen to show the current, average, and maximum wind speed and temperature. In addition, the meter pairs with your smart devices via Bluetooth. The iENV mobile app is free to download and displays real-time data along with the option to record wind readings for future analysis.

Additional useful functions can also be controlled through the app, such as setting alerts for maximum and minimum wind velocities, changing the units of measurement for wind and temperature, and exporting data logs to histogram.

Key Features
  • Lightweight and portable
  • Switchable wind measurement units
  • Low battery indicator
Specifications
  • Brand: UNI-T
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Dimensions: 6.3 x 2 x 1.1 inches
  • Power Supply: Battery
  • Display: LCD
Pros
  • Wide temperature detection range
  • Bright backlight
  • Bluetooth enabled
Cons
  • Doesn't include a protective case
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UNI-T Handheld Mini Anemometer

This combination wind and weather station from La Crosse Technology keeps you updated with current conditions inside and outside your home. It features a high-quality, solar-powered sensor that measures outdoor wind velocity and direction, temperature, and humidity. It comes with an adjustable mounting bracket, which allows it to be installed on most rooftops.

The wireless control panel has a 100-meter range and a visually pleasing, easy-to-read display. It features a large compass rose that shows the wind direction and current speed along with other useful data points such as maximum speed over the last hour and wind speed trend.

For long-term analysis, you can also record wind and temperature data history and set up customizable alerts for rapidly changing weather conditions. Additionally, the station is compatible with various add-on sensors for measuring rainfall, sunlight, or temperature and humidity in other locations around the home.

Key Features
  • Solar powered sensor
  • Detects wind directions
  • Full color control panel
Specifications
  • Brand: La Crosse Technology
  • Connectivity: Wireless
  • Dimensions: 3.77 x 1.14 x 7.01 inches
  • Power Supply: Solar and battery
  • Display: LCD
Pros
  • Customizable alerts
  • 100-meter transmission range
  • Four language settings
Cons
  • Control panel requires a 5V power supply
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La Crosse Technology Wireless Combo Weather Station

As one of the smallest wind meters available, the WeatherFlow Meter for smartphones certainly isn't short on features. It measures average, apparent, true, and maximum wind speeds along with other useful data such as air density, heat index, humidity, and pressure.

It transmits the readings to your smart devices using Bluetooth and is compatible with various weather-related apps such as Wind & Weather Meter, iKiteSurf, iWindsurf, SailFlow, FishWeather, and WindAlert, making it a versatile accessory for sailors, fishermen, and sportspersons alike. In addition, the meter can be used to record various weather measurements and instantly send them to yourself and others via Email, SMS messages, Twitter, or Instagram.

The meter comes in a hard protective case and includes a carrying strap and a metal ring for attaching it to your key ring. So, if you are looking for a compact wind meter with a good range of functions you can't go wrong with the WeatherFlow Meter.

Key Features
  • Attaches to a keyring
  • Compatible with various apps
  • 100ft range
Specifications
  • Brand: WeatherFlow
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Dimensions: 3.9 x 3.9 x 2 inches
  • Power Supply: Battery
  • Display: N/A
Pros
  • Long battery life
  • Attaches to a camera mount
  • Water resistant
Cons
  • Must be paired with a device to function
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WeatherFlow Meter For Smart Phones

For those looking for a highly sensitive meter, the HOLDPEAK Digital Anemometer is a professional-grade option with a magnetic induction sensor. It boasts a wind speed range of 0.3 to 30 meters per second and a temperature range of -10 to 45 degrees Celsius. It also calculates wind chill and records data at the touch of a button.

Additional features are available when connecting the meter to your smartphone, which allows real-time measurements to be logged and stored for specific periods of time. The meter also incorporates a USB port for connecting to a PC or laptop for more detailed analysis.

The exterior is made of durable ABS plastic with rubber grips and has a mounting hole in the base for connecting to a tripod or to attach the lanyard. For protection, the anemometer is supplied with a durable soft case.

Key Features
  • Large LCD display
  • Connects to laptops via USB
  • Magnetic induction sensor
Specifications
  • Brand: HOLDPEAK
  • Connectivity: Bluetooth
  • Dimensions: 6.5 x 3.35 x 1.5 inches
  • Power Supply: Battery
  • Display: LCD
Pros
  • Durable
  • Highly accurate
  • Includes a protective case
Cons
  • Backlight is quite dim
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HOLDPEAK Digital Anemometer

The Logia 5-in-1 Weather Station Remote Monitoring System provides comprehensive and precise readings based on the current weather conditions at your home. Not only does it measure average and current wind speeds and direction, but it also displays temperature, humidity, rainfall, heat index, and sunrise and sunset times.

The outdoor sensor can be positioned up to 450 feet away and comes with an adjustable bracket for mounting on a pole or railing. Live updates are transmitted to the wireless console every 12 seconds. In addition, the system syncs with live weather servers via your PC to track current weather metrics, view trends over a 500-day period, and analyze historical graphs.

For convenience, the console can be wall-mounted or used on a countertop with the included stand. It has simple touch button controls, an amber backlight, and is powered by either the included USB adapter or batteries. So, if you are looking for a digital wind speed meter that does more than provide wind measurements, it's hard to beat the Logia 5-in-1 Weather Station.

Key Features
  • Multiple weather metrics
  • Syncs with live weather servers
  • Tracks historical data
Specifications
  • Brand: Logia
  • Connectivity: Wireless
  • Dimensions: 15.16 x 10.98 x 5.94 inches
  • Power Supply: Battery, USB
  • Display: LCD
Pros
  • 450ft range
  • Updates every 12 seconds
  • Sleek LCD console
Cons
  • Not compatible with Mac
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Logia 5-in-1 Weather Station Remote Monitoring System

FAQ

Q: How Is Wind Speed Measured?

Most anemometers have either cups or fan blades that rotate on a central axis. The meter then converts this motion to give a speed measurement.

Commonly the unit of measurement is meters per second or miles per hour, however, sailors tend to use knots which is equal to 1.15mph.

For HVAC and ventilation installations the airflow should be measured in volume, which is typically calculated in cubic feet per minute, or CFM.

Q: What Is Average Wind Speed?

Throughout the US, the average wind speed is between six and 12 miles per hour. High wind conditions refer to sustained gusts of 21 to 25 miles per hour, which may blow around loose objects such as garden furniture.

Extreme wind is anything over 58mph and is usually accompanied by severe weather.

For sailing and windsurfing, the best wind speed is between five and 12 knots and conditions usually become too rough for small boats over 15 knots.

Q: What Is The Best Height To Install A Fixed Wind Meter?

Ideally, a wind measurement should be taken at 10 meters above the ground. If you are installing a wind sensor on your property then it is usually best to locate it on the roof of your house.

If there are trees or other tall buildings nearby then try to install it as far away from these as possible to avoid inaccuracies. Using a rigid pole is a good option if it helps avoid obstructions.