Plus points:

-It's big (about 12" in length)
-It has all the useful temperature points marked (jam, hard ball, soft ball, firm ball, hard crack, soft crack, caramel, fish, chip, sterilise and fruit bottling), as well as the correct immersion level.
-The metal design will protect the glass thermometer from most dropping impacts
-It can clip onto the side of pots and pans

Minus points:

-It is still possible to smash the glass thermometer if you are careless enough.
-Slightly difficult to read with a lot of condensation on the glass
-Immersion level is 3" or so.

Overall, a very good value product that will prove very useful for most keen cooks.

RECOMMENDED

Edit - the markings have not come off yet, despite regular use.