We present a strategy for selecting an optimal material in a particular temperature range by investigating the relationship between the absolute sensitivity (S-a) and energy gap (Delta E), as well as the relationship between Sa and temperature on the basis of Yb3+/Ln(3+) (Ln = Er3+, Ho3+)-codoped Ba2In2O5 phosphors. Through an investigation of optical performance, the phosphors exhibit near-infrared (NIR) downshifting and visible upconversion (UC) emissions under 980 nm excitation. The NIR spectral range from 700 to 1800 nm is referred to as the "biological window". The NIR emission peaks of Er3+ and Ho3+ are located at 1550 nm of the third biological window and 1192 nm of the second biological window, respectively. The temperature sensing behaviors based on the UC luminescence in Yb3+/Ln(3+)-codoped Ba2In2O5 phosphors are recorded by the fluorescence intensity ratio (FIR) technique in the temperature range from 303 to 573 K. The Ba2In2O5:Er3+/Yb3+ sample is usable at temperatures above 350 K, and the Ho3+/Yb3+-codoped Ba2In2O5 phosphor is suitable at temperatures below 350 K in our experimental region. The above results show that the Ba2In2O5:Ln(3+)/Yb3+ phosphors could be promising candidates for optical temperature sensors and applications in the biological imaging field.