Digital Hygrometer Reliability?

[Chingas]

I have a few digital hygrometers. Recently I bought a new one from a company called Taylor. I thru it in one of my coolers and checked in the morning for the accuracy against the one that was in there. However, I'm thinking this one is right and my old one is shot out.

I don't remember the name of my digitals in question but I think the package had a picture of a drawn character with a hat. I think the name started with an M.

So after this drawn out explanation my question is this. Have people found their hygrometers to be suspect a lot. I've historically replaced mine every 3 years or so just to be cautious. Did I buy crap? I've read in other posts that xicar and the acurite ones were pretty decent. Any other recomendations?

Any help would be appreciated. Thanks.

[Barteur]

I salt test them regularly (every 6 months), change the battery every year. When they are off more then a couple of % (-/+5%) I throw them out. That gives me clear conscience.

[quantim0]

I just got a Xikar yesterday. I am sick of doing mental gymnastics every time I try and figure outnwhat my hygros are reading. So thenxikar calibrates easily and I'll be buying more as needed.

[brigey57]

I purchased a cheap hydrometer at JR Cigars (under $10) and it was more reliable then the more expensive (> $50) one I purchased earlier in my cigar loving days. The expensive hydrometer can not be calibrated, I just need to know that it is off and by how much. When buying a hydrometer spend the money on one that can be calibrated or buy the cheap one that when it's time to throw it away it is no love lost, but calibrate both to ensure the accuracy of each device.

Enjoy:tu

[CigarNut]

I like the Hydroset Hygrometers as they can easily be calibrated.

[ckay]

Beads are my main gauge. The hygrometers in there are all secondary. As long as they read in the 60-70% range after calibration, I am happy.

[bobarian]

If you are using hygrometers to check Rh, you will need to recalibrate about once a year. Using the salt test or a Boveda kit, check your hygrometers. Personally, I dont rely on my hygrometers, the Rh of the air is irrelevant. What's important is the Rh of your cigars, mine are all in boxes so how they are smoking is my check. Been using Heartfelt beads for 3 years without issues. Keep things simple and you will get more enjoyment out of this obsession. :2