E-ink technology is typically found in devices such as the Amazon Kindleand it is also a critical feature of the Qingping thermometer. I originally reviewed the Bluetooth version of this device a few years ago, but Qingping has since updated it with Thread support for Apple Home. I’ve been retesting it to see if it still holds up in 2026.
Weekly HomeKit is a series focused on smart home accessories, automation tips and tricks, and everything related to Apple’s smart home framework.
Why individual room sensors are important
In my ideal world, every home would have a variable HVAC system capable of heating and cooling rooms independently. Since a complete system replacement is rarely in budget, the best option is to have granular data on what is really happening in individual spaces. I recently forgot to set my upstairs Nest back to Eco mode and the temperature difference in my son’s room was shocking. Relying on a single hallway thermostat simply doesn’t work for an entire home. That’s why I rely on localized temperature sensors to activate smart plugs and fans.
Design and display of electronic ink.
The Qingping Thermometer is one of my favorite HomeKit devices in my entire home. It breaks away from the traditional digital look that most sensors use and opts for an e-ink display that blends perfectly with a bookshelf. The screen is incredibly clear from almost any viewing angle. Under the hood, it has a built-in Swiss-made sensor for accurate real-time measurements. You can also easily toggle the display between Celsius and Fahrenheit by pressing a physical button on the back of the device.
You get a lot of flexibility with location. It can be placed on a side table, mounted on the wall with the included magnetic wall sticker, or attached directly to any iron surface. It is powered by a single coin battery. Thanks to the energy-efficient e-ink display, Qingping claims it lasts eight months.
Add to HomeKit via Thread
The main reason to review this sensor today is its connectivity. The old Threadless model was fine, but often lagged when pulling data remotely. The new model is compatible with Thread. As long as you have a HomePod mini or an Apple TV, the sensor instantly and reliably connects to Apple Home. Qingping says the device sends updated temperature and humidity data to its center every 10 minutes.
Once you scan the Apple Home QR code, you can control the climate from that room remotely. If you want to review metrics, the Qingping+ companion app allows you to export 30 days of historical data. Just keep in mind that this specific model is largely designed for Apple users.
If you want to take your settings a step further, you can trigger other devices to turn on if the temperature or humidity reaches a certain threshold. Combining this humidity tracker with a smart plug connected to a fan is a perfect example of why I love Apple Home and the ability to mix and match different providers.
Summary about Qingping thermometer
We really need more technology manufacturers to embrace e-ink displays. They look great and help avoid the bright screen fatigue we all face daily. If you want a classic look with modern Thread functionality, the Qingping Digital Thermometer is a great choice for monitoring the weather in any room in your home.
You can buy the Thread version of the Qingping digital thermometer directly from Amazon.
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