Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter
Neoteck 8233D PRO Pocket Digital Multimeter
INNOVA 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter
If you need to measure electrical current in a device that is not working properly, a multimeter should be your first tool of choice. Think of it as a device that includes the functions of ammeters, voltmeters, and ohmmeters. With the right piece of equipment, you can diagnose a faulty circuit breaker, smart speaker, lamp, miter saw, and everything in between. A digital version with an electronic readout may provide more granularity of what you are measuring, but an analog multimeter has other advantages, too, such as being less expensive to buy and repair. Here are some of the best multimeters available right now.
The Best Multimeter
1Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter
Featuring true RMS for accurate readings on non-linear loads, the Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter is widely regarded as a great commercial electric multimeter for working electricians. Compact for one-handed operation, the unit is sturdily built and easily absorbs the daily wear and tear electricians experience on the job.
Thanks to features like its AutoV/LoZ function and non-contact voltage detection (integrated), the Fluke 117 will never experience ghost voltage readings. Day in and day out, this is one of the top multimeters for commercial electricians working in hospitals, schools, or other locations with a demanding workload. It is a true RMS multimeter that also handles electronic trouble shooting, giving you the ability to quickly diagnose different measurement patterns, including capacitance and frequency. Keep it always handy in your tool box.
Measures: Resistance, frequency, continuity, and capacitance.
Safety Rated: CAT III 600 V.
One-handed Operation: Yes.
Min/Max/Average Readings: Yes.
Automatic AC/DC voltage selection: Yes.
- BrandFluke
- ModelFLUKE 117
- Weight1.59 pounds
2INNOVA 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter
If you are a certified automotive technician who has been tasked with diagnosing electrical problems in vehicles and components, the INNOVA 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter should be at the top of your list of preferred multimeters. Features such as auto shut-off, over-load protection, and auto-ranging make it ideal for quickly assessing engine and electrical problems.
Because automotive engines are so complex, the INNOVA 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter provides functions to pinpoint common electrical and related problems, such as failures with solenoids, breaker points, alternator diodes, wiring, switches, duty cycle, and other fault points. The unit also has built-in safety features, like auto shut-off, over-load protection, 10 MegOhm impedance to prevent damage to the engine control unit, and reverse polarity protection. It is handy and small to fit your tool belt.
Rugged design: Features corner guards for drop protection.
Stores previous readings for easy retrieval: Yes
One-handed Operation: Yes
U/L listed for safety and quality: Yes
Target audience: Certified automotive technicians
- BrandINNOVA
- Model3340
- Weight8 ounces
3Klein Tools MM600 1000V Digital Multimeter
The Klein Tools MM600 has been designed with working electricians in mind, folks who may work regularly in business, light industrial, residential, and other environments that would be described as “basic and controlled.” Make no mistake, though – this is a great auto-ranging multimeter. With a display featuring a 4000 count LCD, this multimeter gives clear, information-packed measurements in the most challenging work settings.
Compact, weighing only eight ounces, the MM600 can be confidently operated with one hand, and lasts several hours powered only by two AA batteries. Along the same lines, the unit includes a low battery indicator and an easily accessible fuse and battery replacement compartment. It also includes a limited two-year warranty from the manufacturer. Our handy guide to the best cordless drills features more great products like this.
Measures: Frequency, capacitance, temperature, plus 10A AC/DC current, 1000V AC/DC voltage, and 40MΩ resistance.
Safety Rated: CAT IV 600V / CAT III 1000V.
One-handed Operation: Yes.
Low battery indicator: Yes.
Rugged construction: Yes, able to withstand a drop of more than six feet.
- BrandKlein Tools
- ModelMM600
- Weight2.1 pounds
4Fluke 87-V Digital Multimeter
A bit heftier than some models at just over two pounds, the Fluke 87-V multimeter can still be operated comfortably with one hand. This digital multimeter includes a few features you may not expect at this price point, such as a built-in thermometer for temperature readings, a two-level backlit display, and special shielding to block high-frequency and high-energy noises you may encounter when working on large drive systems.
The 87-V is flush with features a working electrician will come to appreciate and soon find indispensable. If you sometimes use the wrong input jacks, this multimeter will respond with a loud “Audible Input Alert.” As you have come to expect from Fluke products, the 87-V is highly accurate, delivering 0.05 percent DC accuracy. Love this product? Check out our review of the best stud finders for our top picks.
Common applications: Troubleshoot plant automation equipment, motor drives, electromechanical equipment, and power distribution systems.
Safety Rated: CAT III 1000 V, CAT IV 600 V
One-handed Operation: Yes
Operating temperature: –20 °C to + 55 °C
Display: Digital, with 6000 counts, 3-3/4 digit resolution, or 20,000 counts, at 4-1/2 digit—resolution.
- BrandFluke
- ModelFLUKE 87-V
- Weight 2.71 pounds
5Amprobe AM-510 Commercial/Residential Multimeter
Marketed as a commercial and residential multimeter, the AM-510 multimeter is ideally suited for advanced residential and light commercial applications. Think troubleshooting AC outlets, electrical panels, DC systems, flame sensors, household batteries, temperatures of fuses, transformers, and air vents, and just about any other problem involving electricity.
Features that working electricians have come to appreciate include auto-ranging and manual ranging, a low-pass filter to determine voltage of variable frequency drives, Low Z to detect stray voltage readings, and a duty cycle of 0.1 to 99.9 percent. The AM-510 is a durable handheld multimeter, making it a good choice for light applications like home re-wiring, installing light fixtures, and repairing small appliances. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best band saws.
Auto-ranging: Yes, automatically chooses measurement range.
Safety Rated: Yes, CAT III 600V.
One-handed Operation: Yes.
Low battery warning: Yes.
Common measurements: Capacitance, frequency, duty cycle when troubleshooting.
- BrandAmprobe
- ModelAM-510-AMZN
- Weight0.16 ounces
6Mastech MS8268 AC/DC Auto/Manual Digital Multimeter
Competitively priced, the MS8268 multimeter is geared toward the residential or light commercial marketplace. Thanks to its durability and compact design, this multimeter can easily survive being tossed into a tool box, pouch, or the back of your truck between jobs. It comes with practical features any electrician or DIY fan will find useful, such as a backlit LCD display, auto- and manual-ranging, and a convenient pop-out kickstand on the back so you can prop the unit up while using it.
As a CAT III-rated device, the MS8268 also has safety features that should be included with any multimeter you choose. These include a warning alarm when the incorrect banana jacks are used depending on the function, low battery indicator, a rubber case all around for drop protection, and protective covers for the probes. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best work lights.
Battery powered: Yes, requires three AAA batteries.
Compact: About 14 ounces.
One-handed Operation: Yes.
Min/Max/Average Readings:
Backlit display: Yes.
- BrandTekpower
- ModelMS8268
- Weight14.1 ounces
7AstroAI TRMS 6000 Counts Digital Multimeter
Widely regarded by professional electricians and weekend warrior-types, the AstroAI Digital Multimeter is capable of all the testing needed to diagnose and solve common electrical problems. These tests include AC/DC Voltage, AC/DC Current, Audible Continuity, hFE, Frequency, Resistance, Diode, Capacitance, and Temperature. As one of the top multimeters available, he unit’s sampling speed is impressive, at two times per second, easily keeping pace with more expensive multimeters.
Easy to use, the unit’s front panel is organized in a manner you will come to appreciate and not have difficulty navigating. Functions and features accessible include a magnetic hanger, LCD screen, Function buttons, a Rotary Function Switch, 10A Terminal, μA/mATerminal, COM Terminal, INPUT Terminal, and a Multi-Function Socket. The AstroAI Digital Multimeter is also wrapped in a silicone sleeve around the edges, adding some badly needed drop protection. Our selection of the best magnetic wristbands offers more great products for DIYers.
Range selection: Auto or manual.
Over-load indication: Yes.
One-handed Operation: Yes.
Low battery warning: Yes.
Temperature range: 32 to 104 degrees Fahrenheit.
- BrandAstroAI
- ModelWH5000A
- Weight1.34 pounds
8Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter
Too often, products are defined and occasionally dismissed if the word “basic” is anywhere in the item description, the user manual, or reviews. But do not let that fool you when it comes to the Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter. Yes, it is diminutive in size (you can almost call it a pocket digital multimeter). Yes, it is simple in appearance. But the build, quality, and core functionality easily meet the performance of more expensive multimeters. In fact, it may be its simple appearance that first attracts the DIY aficionado with a longing to diagnose his or her small appliance electrical problem.
When it comes to core functionality, the Fluke 101 checks all the necessary boxes. Though designed for basic electrical testing, its accuracy when testing AC voltage is 3.0%±3 digit to 1.0%±3 digit; for DC it is 0.5%±3 digit. As expected, the unit tests accurately for resistance, capacitance, frequency, and duty cycle. If you are a passionate DIYer check out our guide to the best portable workbenches.
Battery powered: Yes, requires two AA batteries.
Safety Rated: CAT III 600 V.
One-handed Operation: Yes.
Operating range: 0 °C to +40 °C.
Absorption/Corrosion: Per Fluke SOP 39.1
- BrandFluke
- ModelFluke 101
- Weight12 ounces
9Extech EX330 Autoranging Mini Multimeter
Adding “mini” to the product name does not do this multimeter any justice. Compact, lightweight (barely a pound), and sturdy, the EX330 mini multimeter includes the kinds of functionality that far more expensive units struggle to handle. At this price point, there is no other pocket digital multimeter that can match its basic accuracy (0.50%). An auto-ranging model with 12 functions, the EX330 multimeter performs continuity testing and diode testing, measures resistance, has a red LED indicator, an easy-read LED display, low battery indicator, and an audible beeper.
For electricians or anyone else on the move with multiple electrical issues to diagnose, the EX330 is a great digital multimeter. Whether you are bounding up and down the stairs, trudging through a multi-office setting, or going from room to room in your own home, this little multimeter can get the job done. Among its other features are: An AC voltage detector, a clear LED display with one-inch digits, Max Hold and Max Data functions, auto-off, a built-in thermometer with Type K bead that displays degrees in Celsius or Fahrenheit, and a Relative Function mode for comparing stored values. Be sure to also check out our list of the best bench grinders for more great items like this.
Max current: 10A.
Safety Rated: Cat III – 600V UL listed.
One-handed Operation: Yes.
Battery powered: Yes, requires two AA batteries.
Display counts: 4000 counts.
- BrandExtech
- ModelEX330
- Weight1.1 pounds
10Neoteck 8233D PRO Pocket Digital Multimeter
For anyone on a budget who needs an affordable, reliable multimeter, the Neoteck 8233D PRO is a solid choice. For starters, it is very compact and lightweight (barely six ounces) and can easily be operated with one hand. It is a true pocket digital multimeter that fights above its weight class. With a bright orange, rubberized case, it is easy to spot in any toolbox, and can withstand minor drops and bumps. As expected, it tests capacitance, resistance, frequency, and displays all measurements on a large, backlit LCD display.
Its list of notable features may come as a surprise to some given its affordability, but the manufacturer ensured that all industrywide multimeter functionality was included out of the box. This includes: Overload protection, 200 KHz Frequency and 2000μF Capacitance measurement, Data hold, diode testing, a function nob, input terminals, and a pair of test leads. Our guide to the best circular saws offers more great products so check it out.
Backlit display, 2000 counts.
Safety Rated: Euro Standard. Safety Class: IEC 61010-1, CAT II 600V.
One-handed operation.
Low battery indicator.
Auto power-off.
- BrandNeoteck
- ModelNTK017
- Weight6.6 ounces
Multimeter Buying Guide & FAQ
How Did We Choose the Best Multimeters?
Selecting the right digital multimeter depends on many situations and preferences. Each of the devices we reviewed are commendable and can handle whatever diagnosis tasks they encounter. Some may be faster than other units; some may have larger display counts; some may come with a longer manufacturer’s warranty. Some multimeters are marked as “basic” tools for the DIY set, while others clearly are aimed at professional, licensed electricians who test equipment and systems day in and day out.
Choosing the right model depends not only your job, daily tasks, one-off projects, but also:
- Brand
- Customer Reviews
- Design
- Price
Features To Look For In A Multimeter
Number of Functions – A digital or analog multimeter is used to diagnose electronic or electrical problems in any device that uses or generates electricity. It is primarily a measuring device to test functions related to: DC voltage, AC voltage, resistance, current, frequency, temperature, and capacitance.
Auto vs Manual Ranging – Auto-ranging is probably one of the most important features you can have on a multimeter. This feature automatically finds the value of whatever electrical characteristic you are looking for, such as capacitance, resistance, voltage, or anything else. If the multimeter you are using has manual ranging, then it is up to you to know the value range of what you are testing to get a reliable value reading.
Accuracy – This refers to the biggest error allowed in the readings. Accuracy indicates how close a digital multimeter’s measurements on the display compares to the actual value of a signal that is getting measured. This number is usually presented as a percentage when displayed. For a real-world example, consider this: An accuracy of a single percent of the reading means that if the multimeter displays 100 volts, the actual value is likely between 99 and 101 volts.
Safety Features– An electrical multimeter in and of itself does not have any recognizable safety features built into it; rather, using the device properly will keep you safe when working with electrical components or equipment.
Analog vs Digital – These are the two main types of multimeter. The analog version is more “old school,” using a needle much like a vehicle speedometer to show a reading; a digital multimeter utilizes newer technology to display tests results on an electronic display. It is debatable whether one is more accurate than the other, but, in most cases, an analog multimeter is less expensive than an analog version. It is also less expensive to repair.
Ease of Use – For an experienced user, a multimeter is easy to use. For a beginner, the device may be slightly more complicated, but virtually all manufacturers include basic instructions with their products, either on the packaging or online. Check the manufacturer’s website for the most up to date instructions. If you are using a multimeter, then you are likely measuring one of three things: voltage, current, or continuity. Each is important for any kind of device or component where electricity is involved.
Multimeter FAQ
Q: What is a Multimeter?
A: At its most basic level, a multimeter is a device that measures electric current, and can be used to diagnose electronic problems or electrical issues. It is a measuring device which converts analog information into digital signals for readout on a display. Basic functionality in all multimeters is the ability to measure voltage, continuity, and resistance in electrical components. The display can be digital or analog, like the speedometer in a car. If you are trying to validate electricity delivered to a commercial, residential or another location, then you will need to use a multimeter.
A brief history:
1820 – that is when the history of today’s high-tech multimeter began. Back then it was known as a galvanometer, a basic device which used a whetstone bridge to indicate and detect the presence of the flow of electricity. But, of course, it was bulky, slow, and impractical.
1923 – the Avometer, a related device, hits the market. Credit is normally given to British engineer Donald Macadie for combining the measurement of amps, ohms, and volts into a single device.
1927 – in the last 100 or so years, innovation caught up in fits and starts. During that time, moving coils were introduced, along with shunts, a copper oxide rectifier in 1927, and other incremental improvements.
Since then, of course, we have seen improvements in technology to the point where we now have devices with digital displays, units that measure temperature, record measurements for historical reference, will shut off automatically, and are drop resistance.
Q: What are the main differences when using a digital versus an analog meter?
A: The biggest advantage of using a digital multimeter is that it includes a digital readout, which can provide a more detailed reading of what is being measured (DC voltage, AC voltage, resistance, current, frequency, temperature, and capacitance). An analog multimeter uses a needle on a dial for the readout. Both analog and digital perform the same functions, but the analog version can be more durable, less expensive, and easier to maintain.
Q: What are some of the common electrical properties that a Multimeter can determine?
A: Multimeters are amazing and can come in handy for professionals and the DIY set, depending on the task at hand. A multimeter is very useful in diagnosing common electrical problems, such as:
- Issues with electrical outlets now powering whatever is plugged into it.
- Checking a faulty circuit breaker.
- If an electronic device has a fuse, you can test it by using a multimeter.
- A bad capacitor. Use a multimeter to test its resistance.
- Identifying a hot wire versus a neutral wire.
Q: What are some of the home-uses of a Digital Multimeter?
A: At some point, every homeowner – or someone renting an apartment or living in a camper – comes across an electrical problem that appears basic, but one that cannot be readily diagnosed. Instead of paying god-knows how much for a house visit from a professional electrician, how about dropping $30 on a digital multimeter and diagnosing the problem on your own? Here are some issues you may encounter at home:
- Your washing machine is not working; a multimeter could be used to measure the resistance in the motor.
- A table lamp is not working. Is it really burned out?
- Your television remote control is not working. Use a multimeter to check the batteries.
- If your laptop is shutting down repeatedly, overheating, or displaying other warnings, a multimeter can help determine if there is a problem with the battery.
Q: What are the safety measures that I have to put in place when operating a digital multimeter?
A: If you are using any kind of equipment, it is important to follow safety precautions to prevent injuries. The same applies when using a multimeter. Here are some safety tips to consider:
- Inspect the unit for signs of damage.
- Make sure the probes work.
- Ensure a circuit is fully discharged or de-energized before connecting the multimeter.
- Switch the multimeter to DC before attempting to measure the DC polarity.
Safety is important with any piece of equipment you are working with, but maintenance should never be minimized. Even if you work regularly with an inexpensive, pocket digital multimeter or a commercial electric multimeter costing thousands of dollars, pounds, or whatever denomination you choose, you need to care for your tools. With maintenance tasks in mind, it is important to keep your multimeter from getting damaged:
Pay attention and do not use the wrong jacks. Here is a story that could make your blood boil. One enterprising electrician at a nuclear power plant reduced his digital multimeter into a useless molten mass in one fell swoop. How? By plugging test leads into the current jack and taking measurement from a 480V bus to ground. Of course, any apprentice electrician can tell you a 2A fuse will not stand up to that abuse.
Avoid the wrong setting. Today’s top multimeters have built in defense against this kind of mental screw up, but do not set the unit to the 20VDC scale and then measure against 120VAC. This may not cause damage and will instead result in an audible warning, but damage could occur if the multimeter is powered via battery to the terminals.
Forgetting to place the unit in its manufacturer-approved storage case. Sure, you may need “immediate access” to your digital multimeter and think of tossing it into your tool box. But place it securely where it belongs; this also applies to any pouch for the test leads. Test leads may not be expensive to replace, but why think of that when proper storage is easier? It also goes without saying that wrapping the test leads around the unit will eventually result in loss of integrity and measuring functions.
Even an experienced electrician can accidentally use a multimeter for the wrong job. How so? If your pocket digital meter has a CATIII rating, you should not use it at the service switchgear. And avoid using a multimeter with medium-voltage devices and equipment if it is only rated up to 1,000V.
Check the batteries regularly, and not just when a low indicator light goes off. If your multimeter is stored for a while, there is a chance the batteries could wear out and you would never see the warning light. Batteries can be corrosive and would permanently damage your digital multimeter.
If you are doing maintenance on your digital multimeter, use the proper tools if disassembling the unit. Always remember to follow manufacturer’s instructions. In some cases, the warranty could be voided.
