AcuRite Iris 5-in-1 Weather Station vs Ambient Weather WS-5000

Buy the Ambient Weather WS-5000 if you want accuracy and no moving parts to wear out. Its ultrasonic anemometer reads wind faster, adds UV index, and logs data you can export. The AcuRite Iris 5-in-1 is the simpler, cheaper-feeling pick with a bright color display and a self-calibrating forecast, but owners often report rain gauge errors and units that arrive defective. Reviewers rate the WS-5000 higher, though on far fewer ratings.

• Choose the AcuRite Iris 5-in-1 if you want an easy color display with a local forecast and rainfall history at the lowest cost of entry.
• Choose the Ambient Weather WS-5000 if you want ultrasonic wind sensing, UV index and exportable data logs, and you can mount it on a pole.