Table of Contents
Overview
If you want to purchase a multimeter, then you’ve probably already done some research and know this isn’t easy. The factors affecting your buying decision aside from your budget will be the type of work you need the multimeter for, and where it will be used.
This device can help you diagnose electrical problems, measure voltage and current, detect whether an appliance has power and just about everything else you could want to know about the invisible electricity that powers the world around us.
However, with so many different models on the market, it can be difficult to determine which one is right for you. In this blog post, we will recommend our top 10 multimeters and explain why they are the best picks. Stay tuned!
Top 10 Digital Multimeter We Pick
To ensure you’re getting the best multimeter for your home or business, here’s our rundown of the 10 best multimeters for home and professional work.
Let’s dive right into it, shall we?
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Editor Choice
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Best Selling
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Professional Choice
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$46.90
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$10.99 ($10.99 / Count)
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$217.80
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1. Klein Tools MM400 Multimeter
The MM400, like other Klein meters, was created by electricians. As a result, it is logical and straightforward to use. This multi-field meter has many test criteria, including capacitance and temperature.
You don’t get extensive spans – capacitance only goes up to 200F, but the voltage and current are both enough. The Klein Tools MM400 is powered by AAA batteries, which are less costly and more efficient than 9-volt batteries.
The display is traditional (to a count of 4000) and lacks a bar graph. However, it is illuminated.
Key Features
- AC/DC voltage measurement up to 600V
- AC/DC amperage measurement up to 10A
- Input temperature in Fahrenheit/Celsius
- CAT-III safety rating at 600V
2. INNOVA 3320
The INNOVA 3320, commonly known as the Equus 3320, can measure most electrical ranges. It has AC/DC volts to 600V, AC/DC millivolts and milliamps, DC amps, resistance, continuity (with beeper), and diode check.
Its battery tester is a crucial selling factor, with color-coded LEDs for clarity. Another great feature of this unit is its auto range, which calculates the proper degree of a given test input and applies to all settings save the battery check.
Although you must manually select the DC, AC, and milliampere ranges, the auto-ranging feature on this tester is a welcome addition.
Key Features
- Meter INNOVA 3320
- The display is smooth
- AC milliamps, voltage, and resistance are all measured
- Checker for continuity
- Auto-ranging
3. Gardner Bender GMT-319
The Gardner Bender GMT-319 can measure seven functions with 19 ranges on a simple color-coded analog display. This versatile analog multimeter was designed for electrical testing by homes and professionals alike.
This multimeter tests DC Voltage of 2.5-10-50-250-1000 Volts, AC Voltage of 10-50-250-1000 Volts, DC Current of 5-50-500 milliAmps (fused) or 10 Amps on a separate jack (combined).
It features both visual and audible continuity with buzzer sounds at less than 100 Ohms, Decibel.
Key Features
- Range selection is made manually
- Color-coded analog displays that are easy to read
- Test leads are replaceable
- Dial for adjusting to zero ohms
4. Fluke 117
This is the Fluke 110 series’ flagship model. It features all the functionality of the well-praised 115 plus VoltAlert, allowing rapid voltage detection.
The 117’s fundamental measures, in addition to its many additional characteristics, are AC/DC voltage and amperage, resistance, continuity, capacitance, and frequency.
The 117’s CAT III rating, with a maximum voltage of 600V, is the most critical of the test requirements. This enables it to analyze single and three-phase outlets, appliances, control panel boards, and switchgear.
Key Features
- Ergonomic and compact
- Current, voltage, resistance, continuity, capacitance, and frequency are all measured
- Input impedance test for LoZ
5. Greenlee DM-45 Multimeter
The Greenlee DM-45 Digital Multimeter is a hand-held testing equipment that can measure AC and DC voltage, current, temperature (K-type thermocouples only), frequency, duty cycle, resistance, and capacitance.
This meter also validates continuity and checks diodes. The Greenlee DM200A is the series’ entry-level model. It lacks the other two capabilities and averages out RMS while measuring AC.
This is not a problem in general, but it will result in less accurate results when measuring complex drive systems with non-linear waveforms.
Key Features
- DM-200A Greenlee Meter
- 600A to 8A current ranges
- Voltage detection ranges: 60mV / 1000V
6. AstroAI Digital Multimeter AM33D
This is a standard £8.99 multimeter that looks the part and measures most things, though the touch was crowded and jittery.
AC and DC voltage are measured on different scales and can be calculated automatically or manually. In addition, there are different amperage scales (from micro-amps to 10A).
However, they are mainly used for brief bursts of incredible energy. Using a beeper, you may test for temperature, capacitance, frequency, resistance (up to 60M), and continuity.
Key Features
- Beeper for continuity
- Automatic and manual ranging
- Backlit, large screen
- Turn off the autopilot
7. Fluke 117/323 Kit Multimeter
This low-cost testing kit includes two of Fluke’s most famous pieces of equipment and is suited for use by anyone. The Fluke 117, a multifunction digital multimeter, is the first instrument included in this bundle.
Fluke collaborated closely with several electricians to develop this product, which consists of all of the features a multimeter user could want.
This includes voltage detection technology, automatic AD/DC voltage selection, low impedance technology to combat ghost voltages, true-RMS measurements, MIN/MAX/AVG modes.
Key Features
- VoltAlert technology detects the voltage and notifies people without the need for touch
- AutoVolt automatically selects AC/DC voltage
- Low input impedance mode eliminates the problems that ghost voltages might create
- The Fluke 117’s large white LED backlight screen allows it to be utilized in low-light situations
8. Klein Tools CL390
The clamp, AC/DC voltage, DC microamps, resistance, continuity, frequency, and capacitance are all measured using an automatically ranging true root mean squared digital clamp meter.
The silicone cover prevents the CL390 from failing damage and electrocution and is anti-burning and overload-resistant. In case of low battery power, an indicator will appear.
It has a high visibility, reverse contrast LCD that optimizes viewing ability in dark and bright environments.
Key Features
- The clamp jaw incorporates a non-contact voltage tester
- Reverse contrast LCD with high visibility for increased visibility in all lighting conditions
- True Root Mean Squared (TRMS) measuring system that automatically ranges for accuracy
- Measures AC/DC and NCVT with a clamp, as well as resistance, frequency, DC microamps, capacitance, duty cycle, diode test, and continuity with a thermocouple
9. KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter with Case
The Kaiweets Digital Multimeter is an ideal unit for the user who requires a comprehensive machine at an affordable price point. It is versatile, perfect for beginners, and packed with pro-level features.
In addition, it’s suitable for contractor-grade HVAC applications, home battery testing, and automotive applications, and it’s safety rated for CAT III 1000 volts and CAT IV 600 volts.
It has a 2.9-inch backlit LCD screen with a bar graph that gives clear data feedback, while auditory and visual indications alert you to live wires, providing reassurance.
Key Features
- Relatively short probes
- Inability to recollect if you used AC or DC the last time
- The batteries are tough to change
- “SMART” mode selection automatically
10. MILWAUKEE’S 2216-20
Professional True-RMS meter for home, commercial, and industrial applications. The perfect tool for a skilled commercial or industrial electrician, it has all the features needed to do the job in the field or the plant.
The Milwaukee Digital Multimeter is a professional True-RMS meter for home, commercial, and industrial applications. It is the ideal tool for the skilled commercial or industrial electrician since it contains all the capabilities required to work in the field, on the project site, or in the plant.
Key Features
- 2216-20 A True-RMS electrical tester for precise measurement in all applications
- AC/DC measurement up to 10 amps
- A wide voltage range of up to 600 volts AC/DC is measured
7 Factors to Consider When Buying A Multimeter
1. Purpose for multimeter
Before buying a multimeter, you should question why you even need one. The factors to consider will alter depending on whether it is for a hobby project, home testing, or professional application.
If you need to understand your wants adequately, you may wind up purchasing a product lacking crucial features or paying additional money for things you do not require.
2. Accuracy
When it comes to multimeter accuracy, it’s not very significant. However, getting a 0.5% DC volt accuracy with 4000 or 6000 counts is sufficient. Any value more potent than this renders your meter unprofessional and a waste of money.
Furthermore, when measuring AC voltages and bandwidth above 50kHz, a multimeter must provide an accurate RMS reading.
3. Analog Versus Dial Display
The difference between the two types of multimeters is how their output is presented. Analog multimeters use a needle to measure values on an analog scale; digital multimeters display the precise value in digital form on display.
Analog multimeters are less costly than digital multimeters, although the latter is more accurate. In terms of usability, digital ones are easy to operate, whilst analog ones might be challenging for novice users.
4. Auto-Range Function
You can get a manual range meter if you are a newbie or need more money. Otherwise, don’t worry about it. It is a waste of time and extremely difficult to deal with.
The auto range meter chooses its range. Connect the device, pick the parameter to be measured on the meter, and read the value on the screen.
5. Range limits
One of the most crucial things to look for is ranges. It would help if you always determined what value parameters your projects will require. The point here is that your multimeter ranges should cover your current and future project needs.
6. Probes and Accessories
Check for physical damage to the meter, test probes, and accessories. Ensure all plugs are well seated and look for cracks or exposed metal on the case. Never use a meter or test probes that have been damaged. Ensure your multimeter is operating correctly once you’ve finished the visual assessment.
7. Battery time
When you use a multimeter daily, battery life is critical. A battery life of 1000 hours is deemed adequate. If you are serious about learning electronics, save money on any meter with a battery life of fewer than 1000 hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Below is some common question you may meet for digital multimeter.
What are the main features of a multimeter?
A multimeter, often known as a volt/ohm meter or VOM, is electronic measuring equipment that integrates numerous measurement operations into a single unit. A standard multimeter may include capabilities such as measuring voltage, current, and resistance.
How to use a multimeter?
You connect the probes to the two points you want to measure. Make sure they don’t touch each other or anything else that conducts electricity, like metal objects or water. When you turn on the device, it will show a reading on its display screen.
What is a CAT rating?
A CAT rating indicates how much protection a specific garment provides in the case of an arc flash. For example, CAT 1-4 corresponds to a minimum Arc rating of 4-40 cal/cm2.
How can you tell if a multimeter is accurate?
A digital meter’s most accurate reading is in the lowest range, with the most significant number in the left-most position. Therefore, to read the most accurate readings, set the DMM to the lowest measurement range before over-ranging.
Is an analog or a digital multimeter more accurate?
Analog multimeters are less accurate than digital multimeters. Standard analog multimeters typically have 3% accuracy. Digital multimeters have an accuracy of 0.5%. Because of inaccurate pointer readings, analog multimeters are also less accurate.
What distinguishes an Ohmmeter from a multimeter?
Other factors that may be measured with a multimeter include capacitance, temperature, frequency, transistor gain, and diode voltage drop. Finally, an ohmmeter is a portable electronic instrument that may test electrical resistance at low levels.
What happens if the multimeter is turned to the wrong setting?
If the voltage is greater than the preset, either AC or DC, with the proper polarity, it will move the needle to the end of the scale. You will obtain an accurate negative value if you have a digital meter that auto-senses polarity and measures DC with the polarity inverted.
How to use a multimeter to test a battery?
Unplug the battery from the circuit. Set the multimeter to 15-20V DC voltage by turning the knob (a battery generates DC power). Constantly adjust the dial to an excellent range than the battery’s stated voltage. Selecting the 15-20V range on the multimeter dial should be sufficient for a 9V battery. Connect the red probe’s connector to the multimeter’s VGA port and the black search to the COM port. Measure with the multimeter. If the reading for a 9V battery is more than 7V, the battery is still safe to use.
If the reading is significantly low (for example, 1V for a 9V battery), the battery is likely defective or dead and must be replaced. Likewise, if the multimeter reads less than half the voltage level listed on the battery, the battery is usually deemed dead.
What to avoid doing with a multimeter?
- Do not let the meter fall.
- No meter should be overloaded.
- Precision instruments should not be tampered with.
- Before connecting a meter to a circuit, ensure the range switch is positioned correctly.
- Before connecting electricity to meters, double-check the circuit connections.
What should I know before using a multimeter?
Set your multimeter to resistance mode and turn it on. The symbol represents resistance measured in ohms. Unfortunately, most multimeters are not auto-ranging, so you must select the appropriate range for the resistance you want to measure.
Conclusion
Multimeters are helpful electrical tools used in various industrial, commercial, and residential contexts. As previously stated, multimeters function as ammeters, voltmeters, and ohmmeters with many specific functions.
We hope you enjoyed our list of the ten best multimeters on the market today. If you’re looking for a tool to help you with your electrical work or home projects, be sure to check out one of these great options.
