While not the first infrared thermometer we've seen — or even the sleekest — William Joseph's pen-shaped temperature-taker is certainly the most affordable. For just $33 (plus shipping) you get the ability to measure the average molecular kinetic energy of things without ever touching them. The range isn't listed, so it probably won't work on the sun (not enough digits on the display, anyway), but if you want to check how cold the lake is before you stick your feet in the water, this'll do the trick. You wouldn't even need to bend over.

Other uses of the thermometer might include checking the temp. of your barbecue grill for your Fourth of July cookout, or using it to pick up girls with the line, "Ooo, my infrared thermometer says you're hot, baby." You go, pal. You go. — Peter Pachal

BobWards, via GizmoWatch