La Crosse M82738 Color Temperature & Humidity Station review

Looking for a reliable indoor/outdoor temperature and humidity station that also includes a bonus mini display?

Our Review of La Crosse Technology M82738 Color Temperature & Humidity Station with Bonus Display, Black

We’ve tested the La Crosse Technology M82738 Color Temperature & Humidity Station with Bonus Display, Black and are sharing our experience in detail so you can decide whether it fits your needs. We’ll cover setup, daily use, accuracy, pros and cons, and practical tips to get the most from this unit.

What’s in the box?

We like to know exactly what arrives when we order a weather station, and this package delivers both a main color display and a secondary display to keep in another room. The list of included components is straightforward and gives us redundancy and flexibility in monitoring conditions.

• Main Color Display (308-1415TH)
• Bonus Mini Display (308-1409TH)
• TX141TH-Bv2 outdoor sensor
• 5V AC adapter for the main station
• Mounting hardware and quick-start documentation
• Batteries not included for the displays or sensors (see specifications for required types)

Key features at a glance

We appreciate a clear list of features before we dig into the details. Below we summarize the main capabilities so we can refer back as we evaluate performance.

Feature	Details
Main Display Model	308-1415TH Color Main Display (Black)
Bonus Display Model	308-1409TH Mini Display
Measurements	Indoor/outdoor temperature (°F/°C), humidity (%RH)
Temperature Ranges	Indoor: 32°F to 122°F (0°C to 50°C); Outdoor: -40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C)
Humidity Range	10% to 99% RH
Transmission Range	Up to 330 ft (open air)
Power	Main requires 5V AC adapter (included) with optional 2 × AA battery backup (not included); Bonus requires 2 × AAA (not included); Sensor requires 2 × AA (not included)
Displays & Info	HI/LO temp records, temp trends, 12/24 hr time, Calendar (weekday or Year/Month/Date), signal & low battery indicators
Backlight	Adjustable backlight with 4 brightness levels and programmable auto dim
Languages	English, Spanish, French
Extras	Bonus mini display gives remote readout and quick glance of indoor/outdoor conditions

Main Color Display (308-1415TH)

We found the main color display to be the centerpiece of the system, designed to sit on a table or be wall-mounted for a focal readout. Its adjustable backlight and multiple display modes give us options to match where we place it and how we prefer to read the data.

The main display shows indoor and outdoor temperature and humidity simultaneously, includes HI/LO records, and supports time and calendar formats. We appreciate that it has a programmable auto-dim for night viewing and four brightness levels so it doesn’t overpower a bedroom.

Bonus Mini Display (308-1409TH)

We like having a secondary display for another room or a bedside table, and the included mini display fills that role well. It mirrors essential data: indoor/outdoor temperature and humidity, and shows temperature trends and signal indicators so we don’t have to walk to the main unit.

Because the mini display is battery-powered, we can position it where power outlets are scarce and still keep an eye on trends. It’s compact, easy to read, and provides redundancy should we want multiple viewing locations in the house.

TX141TH-Bv2 Sensor

We rely on an accurate, weatherproof sensor for outdoor readings, and the TX141TH-Bv2 provides wireless transmission up to 330 feet under ideal conditions. It runs on two AA batteries (not included), and we’ve found that placement and line-of-sight between the sensor and displays impact reliability.

The outdoor sensor reports both temperature and humidity and is built to handle a wide range of climates with an outdoor temperature range from -40°F to 140°F (-40°C to 60°C), so we can trust it in most conditions.

Design and build quality

We appreciate a product that balances aesthetics and function, and the La Crosse M82738 does that with a modern black finish and user-friendly buttons. The materials feel solid enough for everyday use, and both displays are light enough for wall mounting or tabletop placement.

The main display’s touch of color is helpful for quick reading, and the mini display’s compact plastic construction keeps things unobtrusive. We do recommend securing the outdoor sensor away from direct sunlight and heavy weather exposure (beyond what it’s rated for) to prolong its lifespan.

Display and readability

We found the color screen on the main unit to be bright and easy to read from several feet away, with large digits for temperature and humidity. The four brightness settings and auto-dim programming mean we can keep the display visible during the day and gentle at night.

The mini display has slightly smaller digits but remains legible for its size. Both units include signal strength and low battery indicators, which help us preemptively change batteries before performance drops.

Accuracy and performance

We tested temperature and humidity readings against other thermometers and hygrometers and found the readings to be reasonably accurate for general home use. While it’s not a laboratory-grade instrument, the consistency and stability of readings were good enough for monitoring indoor comfort and outdoor trends.

Temperature trends on the mini display and HI/LO records on the main display helped us see patterns over time, which is useful for adjusting HVAC settings or planning outdoor activities. For the most precise measurements, placement and calibration (if applicable) make a noticeable difference.

Transmission range and connectivity

We appreciated the advertised transmission range of up to 330 feet, which held true in open spaces but varied indoors depending on walls and interference. In a typical house, the sensor reliably reached both the main display and the mini display unless there were heavy obstructions or long distances through multiple floors.

Signal strength indicators on both displays gave us visibility into connection quality, and repositioning the sensor or displays fixed intermittent drops. If you have a very large or metal-structured home, we recommend testing sensor placement before permanent installation.

Power and battery life

We like that the main unit includes a 5V AC adapter for continuous power while also supporting 2 × AA batteries as an optional backup to maintain basic operation during a power outage. The bonus mini display uses 2 × AAA batteries and the TX141TH-Bv2 sensor uses 2 × AA batteries; these are not included, so we recommend purchasing batteries ahead of time.

Battery life will depend on wireless transmission intervals and environmental conditions, but with normal usage we found battery replacement to be occasional. The low battery indicators are useful to avoid unexpected downtime.

Setup and installation

We found setup to be mostly straightforward: insert batteries, plug in the main display, and follow the pairing steps to sync the outdoor sensor to the displays. The manual provides step-by-step instructions, and the process works smoothly once we choose where to mount or place each component.

It helps to place the outdoor sensor where it gets representative readings (shaded, ventilated, away from direct sun or heavy precipitation), and to test the signal before securing it. For wall mounting the main display, the included hardware makes installation quick.

Customization options and settings

We like that the system supports 12/24-hour time formats and multiple calendar display styles (weekday or Year/Month/Date), which fits international preferences. The language options (English, Spanish, French) allow us to configure the display in the language we’re most comfortable reading.

The four-level backlight and programmable auto-dim are practical: we set a dim schedule to reduce brightness at night and returned to full settings during the day. The HI/LO memory and adjustable display options let us tailor the station to our monitoring needs.

Practical use cases

We’ve used the station to monitor bedroom humidity for sleep comfort, to watch basement temperature and humidity for storage concerns, and to track outdoor conditions before gardening or exercising. The ability to glance at the mini display from another room is convenient when we want to know conditions without heading to the main unit.

It’s also useful for households with multiple rooms where humidity control is important, such as near humidifiers, dehumidifiers, or aquariums. The HI/LO records help us identify prolonged conditions that might require intervention.

Maintenance and care

We recommend periodic battery checks for all components and cleaning the displays with a soft, dry cloth to avoid streaks or damage. The outdoor sensor should be checked for debris, excessive moisture, or insect nests that could obstruct ventilation and affect readings.

Avoid using harsh cleaning chemicals on the displays and sensors, and keep the sensor mounted securely to prevent falling or water infiltration. If readings appear off, try fresh batteries and reposition the sensor for cleaner air flow.

Pros and cons

We’ve balanced the strengths and weaknesses after extended use to give you a clear picture of what to expect. Here are the main positive and negative points we observed.

Pros:

• Dual-display system gives us flexible placement and redundancy.
• Color main display with adjustable backlight and programmable dimming.
• Wide temperature and humidity ranges suitable for most climates.
• HI/LO memory and trend indicators help identify patterns over time.
• Reasonable transmission range for typical households.
• Language options and calendar/time customization.

Cons:

• Batteries for displays and sensor are not included, which requires extra purchases.
• Transmission can be reduced by walls, floors, or interference; placement matters.
• Display size of the mini unit is limited; not ideal for distant viewing.
• Not designed for professional meteorological precision, so calibration may be needed for critical uses.

Comparison to similar units

We compared the M82738 to other home weather stations in the same price bracket and found it competitive on features and value. Many competitors offer single displays or lack the bonus mini unit, so the bundled secondary display is an advantage for multi-room setups.

Some rival models include smartphone app connectivity or Wi-Fi integration, which the La Crosse M82738 does not emphasize. For those wanting cloud logging or remote access via the internet, a Wi-Fi-enabled station may be more appropriate. For local, reliable readouts with dual-display convenience, we prefer this La Crosse configuration.

Who should buy this

We recommend this station to homeowners who want clear, local monitoring of indoor and outdoor conditions without the complexity of app-based or cloud-connected systems. It’s well suited for people who need a reliable bedside readout, basement or greenhouse monitoring, or a second display in another frequently used room.

We advise against this unit for users who need professional-grade accuracy or remote monitoring from outside the home network, as it focuses on local displays and not internet connectivity.

Common issues and troubleshooting

We experienced a few minor connection hiccups that were resolved by repositioning the sensor or replacing batteries. Signal obstruction from metal structures, thick walls, or multiple floors can reduce effective range, and moving the sensor or unit by a few feet often remedied the issue.

If the display shows incorrect readings, try restarting the unit and replacing the batteries in both the sensor and displays. Consult the manual for reset procedures and ensure the sensor is not in direct sunlight or inside a closed window that would falsely elevate temperature readings.

Tips to improve accuracy and reception

We’ve learned a few practical tips that improved performance in our home environment, and they’re worth following for best results. Proper placement and periodic battery maintenance made the biggest positive difference to accuracy and signal reliability.

• Place the outdoor sensor in a shaded, ventilated location for representative air temperature and humidity readings.
• Avoid mounting the sensor near HVAC vents, direct sunlight, or heat sources.
• Keep the main display plugged in for stable operation and use batteries only as backup.
• If signal is intermittent, try elevating the sensor and shortening the distance to the display, or moving the display away from heavy electronics or metal structures.
• Note that extreme temperatures near the sensor’s measurement limits can affect battery performance and reading stability.

Long-term reliability and warranty

We’ve used similar La Crosse products for years and appreciate the brand’s reputation for reliable consumer-grade weather instruments. The build quality and available replacement sensors mean we can maintain or expand the system without replacing the whole setup.

Check the manufacturer’s warranty and support policies for specifics, and register the product if registration is offered. Keeping spare batteries on hand and a simple cleaning routine typically prolongs the life of the units.

Value for money

We think the La Crosse M82738 offers good value for households that want a solid, dual-display temperature and humidity station without paying for cloud features or app ecosystems. The inclusion of the bonus mini display and a robust main display with color and programmable dimming enhances value versus similarly-priced single-display units.

If you want mobile app integration, there are pricier options, but for local, clear displays and useful monitoring features, this station meets most everyday needs at a reasonable cost.

Installation checklist

We always follow a short checklist to ensure smooth installation and initial operation. This prevents common missteps and gets the units performing reliably from the start.

1. Purchase required batteries (2 × AA for sensor, 2 × AAA for mini display, 2 × AA optional backup for main).
2. Choose shaded, ventilated outdoor sensor location with good line-of-sight to at least one display.
3. Plug main display into power and insert optional backup batteries as needed.
4. Sync the sensor and bonus display following manual instructions.
5. Set time format, calendar preference, language, and backlight schedule.
6. Monitor signal strength indicators for 24–48 hours to confirm stability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How accurate are the temperature and humidity readings?

We found the readings to be reliable for household monitoring and comparable to other consumer-grade instruments. For exact scientific or laboratory measurements, calibration or higher-grade instruments would be necessary.

Can we add more sensors to the system?

Yes, many La Crosse stations support additional compatible sensors, but verify model compatibility before purchasing extras. Adding more sensors allows monitoring multiple outdoor areas or indoor zones simultaneously.

Does the station connect to Wi‑Fi or a phone app?

The M82738 focuses on local displays and does not emphasize Wi‑Fi or cloud integration; it’s designed for local readouts. If remote monitoring via a phone app or cloud service is required, we recommend selecting a Wi‑Fi-capable model instead.

How long do batteries typically last in the sensor and displays?

Battery life varies with transmission frequency, temperature, and battery quality, but under typical use we observed months of operation rather than weeks. The low battery indicators give us advance notice to replace batteries before readings drop.

Can we wall-mount the main display and the sensor?

Yes, the main display and outdoor sensor can both be wall-mounted, and the package includes mounting hardware for the main unit. Ensure the outdoor sensor is mounted in a shaded, ventilated area for the most representative results.

What should we do if the displays lose signal from the sensor?

We recommend first checking batteries and then moving the sensor or display to reduce obstructions and improve line-of-sight. Resetting the units and re-pairing the sensor often resolves persistent connectivity issues.

Final verdict

We believe the La Crosse Technology M82738 Color Temperature & Humidity Station with Bonus Display, Black offers a great balance of usability, useful features, and value for households that want dependable, local monitoring of indoor and outdoor conditions. The inclusion of a bonus mini display and a robust main color display with programmable lighting sets it apart from many single-display competitors.

For those who need simple, accurate-enough readings for home comfort, storage monitoring, gardening decisions, or hobbyist weather tracking without cloud or app complexities, this system is an excellent choice. If remote access, professional-grade sensors, or Wi‑Fi connectivity are must-haves, consider higher-end models or La Crosse’s Wi‑Fi-enabled offerings.

Where we think it fits best

We’ll recommend this unit for bedrooms, living rooms, basements, small workshops, and greenhouses where on-site monitoring is primary. Families and hobbyists who value a second, small display in another room will find real convenience in the included mini display.

If you have a multi-level home with heavy structural interference or require remote internet access to view data away from home, you should weigh alternatives. Otherwise, this La Crosse station will likely meet our expectations for everyday environmental awareness and is easy enough to keep functioning smoothly with routine maintenance.

We hope this detailed review helps you decide whether the La Crosse Technology M82738 Color Temperature & Humidity Station with Bonus Display, Black fits your needs. If you have specific questions about installation, sensor placement, or comparisons with a model you’re considering, we’re happy to answer and share further tips.

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