As An Amazon Associate I Earn From Qualifying Purchases
Looking for the best inexpensive Multimeter? Accept our fast track offer now and blaze a trail.
We’ve have combined for you 7 best multimeters under 50 dollar that has stood the test of time. And, No! No! No! You won’t be getting only the juicy details, but the grimy details as well.
Do you want to be a part of this inside track, enjoying excellent and safe digital multimeters even for a token? Let me take a wide guess. I know it’s a yes.
So, stick with me here and get hot on the trail. A cheap and rock-solid electrician multimeter lay in wait for you.
7 Best Inexpensive Multimeter
1. CRAFTSMAN 3482141 8 Function Digital Multimeter-
Have you decided to stop being a DIYer because someone said you’d never find a cheap and good meter? You’re about to get shocked.
Quick Summary
- It is easy to use
- Built-in support stand
- 600 volts alternating current
- 10A alternating current
- 600 volts Direct Current
- 10A direct Current
- Diode test
- It’s great for quick measurements
- It uses a single 9V battery
This is a fantastic budget multimeter you would buy without breaking the bank. It is 100% safe for tackling jobs even by a complete novice. Are you still not convinced? Alright, let’s hope to unravel more information.
Wait, let’s get this flip out of the way. The voltage meter is not best multimeter for very deep electrical sockets. How’s that? The tips of the leads would not enter to make contact due to the insulations present on them.
With that out of the way, the meter is a treasure.
To begin with, it’s a cheap that allows you to work with both direct current and alternating current. So, you’ve got no problem working around both current. It doesn’t stop there. With the CRAFTSMAN 8 digital function in your hands, worry less about your safety.
It comes in a rugged protective case. What about its test leads? They’re tightly fitted into your toolbox. With an added benefit of a 2000, count LCD screen and a 2 megaohm resistance, it’s best suited for home jobs.
Professionals won’t find this is a great choice. Other than that, it can help you maintain and fix your personal electrical appliances in the most hassle free way.
About the warranty, it comes with a one-year warranty. Absolutely considerate for its price.
- Strong leads
- Nice rugged case
- Safely covered tips
- Solid built
- Clear readings
- Small size
- No clamp ammeter
2. KLEIN Tools MM400
Allow us to introduce you to this special klein tools, and then you can thank us later.
Quick Summary
- Auto ranging feature
- Temperature measuring
- It has a protective rubber sleeve that adds extra protection
- Low battery indicator
- Measures capacitance, frequency, and continuity
- Duty cycle
- CAT III 600V safety rating
- 600V AC/DC voltage and 10A AC/DC current
Whether for residential or light industrial jobs, klein tools MM400 is up to the task. It would also work correctly in the hands of novice and professionals. So, what are you still waiting for?
It is not almighty true rms meter thou, but believe it or not; it would put a smile on your face, especially with the feature-packed benefits. Okay, let’s jump right in and see if this KLEIN mm400 is worth the money.
It’s no big news that the manufacturers of KLEIN Multimeters are famous for producing quality digital multimeters. Beyond that, they can be attested to for also producing budget multimeters.
And yes, KLEIN MM600 is one of their best budget multimeters.
With similar features and functions, this tool is an imitate of the expensive KLEIN Multimeters. It is effective for use in a basic and controlled environment.
Despite its relatively low price range, comes in handy with batteries, test leads, and thermocouple.
The accuracy of this- Trustworthy. In addition, this tool has a low battery indicator. Nobody likes digital multimeters dying out on them, another reason for you to consider this tool.
A good user interface and easy access to the battery compartment would be prodigal to ignore this tool.
- Large and easy to see the display
- Accurate readings
- Durable rubber corner guards
- Backlight present
- Supports highly accurate measurements
- Temperature measurements can be done
- Feature packed
- Durable
- It lacks range
- Not suitable for Professionals
3. Amprobe 4394419 PK-110 Electrical test kit with voltage probe-
We want the best and memorable experience for your residential electrical jobs. This is why we’re bringing this to your table. Keep reading to know more about it.
Quick Summary
- Auto ranging feature
- 3 Multimeters with test functions
- CSA safety
- CAT II 250-volt safety rating
- Battery test
- Low input impedance
- Measures resistance
- Robust measurements
- The unit comes with built-in ceramic fuse tubes
- The measurable AC/DC voltage of this particular multimeter is 250V
- Bright LED
For starters, this is a yes deal. All it requires is a little effort to get acquainted with its features and operations. Good news- It’s also a yes for successors in the job. So, nobody is left out, right?
Can you afford to overlook this meter? Don’t think so. Let’s get to the point.
3 in 1 electric meter. Aren’t you excited? Herein, you will find a VP-1000 Non-Contact voltage detector, ST-102B socket tester with GFCI, and AM- 420.
The cool thing about the true rms cheap multimeter is that you can carry out a safe and fast electrical test with it. The features on it allow for these operations in the most convenient way.
First, the AM-420 measures voltage up to 250 volts. It tests the extension cord, and it is a CAT II 250V safety rating. For troubleshooting light bulbs and fuses, you can trust its continuity functions.
Then again, the socket tester ST-102B with GFCI tests receptacle wiring. That’s not all. It detects five separate wiring faults. Talk about the open hot, open ground, ground/hot reverse, open neutral, and neutral/ hot reverse.
Lastly, Non-Contact voltage detector VP-1000, with double insulation, detects voltage quickly. Congratulations to beginners! They can now detect voltage in fuses, extension cord, circuit breaker, switches, and outlets in the safest way.
Don’t forget; this is just a 3 in 1-meter offer in the Amprobe -110 Electrical test kits. Hurry now and get yours.
- Easy to set up
- Good quality built
- Accurate
- Carry out non-linear measurements
- Audible setting on continuity
- Excellent Compact meters
- Prove wires not removable
- Defection may be found in any of the meters.
4. Extech MN35 Digital Pocket Multimeter-
Here’s another bankable tool that is entirely budget-friendly. But first, a note of warning- Professionals back off.
Quick Summary
- It is easy to use
- DC current
- AC/DC voltage
- Data hold function
- -4 to 1400°F temperature measuring
- Resistance test
- Very conspicuous LCD display can be read from far
- Manual ranging
- Crystal-clear LCD with big numbers and symbols
- The unit uses a 9V battery
But if you’re in dire need of the best multimeter for casual use, stop now and order this piece.
All the added features on this are definitely going to make it worthwhile. Basically, everything you would need to handle troubleshooting excellently is embedded in here. In short, let’s get to see all that this got to offer.
Buy this true rms meter and own a Type K thermocouple Probe, 9 volts battery, and test leads. Sounds good?
Although it has a Compact size, believe me, it’s packed with unique features. Ask about the screen. It’s a 2000 count digit display. And boom! Display is extra large. A unique feature that many would be willing to buy a buck for.
Also, guess what? There are protection and excellent grip for the multimeter coming from its rugged rubber holster.
But here’s the problem- Professionals cannot get much to benefit from this tool. Especially since it cannot record findings when on data hold.
With the well detailed instructional guide, we promise you to value itself while this tool lasts in your hands.
- Replaceable fuse
- Large and clear display
- Basic features
- Compact size for use around the house
- Easy set up
- No auto-ranging
- Might not last a long time
5. Mastech MS8264-
End every disappointment around electric circuits with this reliable Multimeter. Probably you’re wondering if it is worth your money. I have the answer for you.
Quick Summary
- Auto ranging multimeter feature
- Accurate measurements feature
- Its low input impedance will help prevent all the false readings
- Test temperature
- 2000 counts LCD display
- The AC voltage range is 2V – 750V and the DC voltage range is 200mV – 1000V
- Data hold
- CAT II 100V and CAT III 600V
- It can read up to 1000V in AC/DC voltage, 10A current and 40M Ohm resistance
- Conspicuous LCD Display
- Auto power off function
Manufactured by Mastech, it is one of the leading true rms electric tester meter of all times. Frankly speaking, it is a budget multimeter every DIYer, and even professionals should have. Why? Because it has shown a great deal of excellence in electrical troubleshooting and maintenance.
Combine this tool with the knowledge and skills you have and see how impressed you would be.
Aside from its all range protection, the package comes with 1 thermocouple and a user manual serving as a guide. Even with this, it still doesn’t put any pressure on its budget, thus making it an incomparable.
This top-notch tool measure temperature, capacitance, frequency, resistance, and continuity optimally.
When working in a CAT II and CAT III rated environment, you would be safe with this meter. Also, the data hold and the auto power off is not off the record. Why wait for any further after you’ve gotten this top secret?
- Clear Display
- Strong built
- Protective rubber holster
- 1 K Type Thermocouple
- Auto power off
- No batteries
- Not always in stock
6. Etekcity Clamp Multimeter
You probably asking yourself, what is this auto ranging digital multimeter doing here on the list. It’s quite simple! Because this is where it belongs- one of the best auto ranging digital multimeter you will ever find.
Quick Summary
- Auto ranging
- Incredibly low input impedance
- Backlight display
- Highly accurate measurements
- Max reading
- Tests AC/DC Voltage
- Auto off
- Include low battery indication
Relax! Don’t be in haste. From the auto power off to the transition check, this clamp meter is absolutely right for beginners.
If you want to put an end to the too much complexity of Multimeters for daily chores, this should be your go. And here’s why?
If you don’t get this Etekcity now, trust me, you’re just leaving money on the table. Because this clamp meter provides both AC and battery voltage measurements.
Other than that, its multiple functions, such as the hold and select function, are a catch. Without interrupting the circuit, its clamps can measure up to 26mm AC current in a conductor. The sleep mood adds up to the sustainability of the auto ranging multimeter multimeter and gives it a long-lasting operation. As long as the Multimeter is not up, your batteries are safe.
Alongside its easy clamp control, it’s been rounded up as one of the best multimeter for daily jobs. You can carry it about with so much convenience. It comes with a compact carrying pouch for easy carrying.
- Pre-loaded batteries ready for use
- Looks Professional
- Accurate measurements
- Quality leads
- Clear notations
- Beginner friendly
- Does not measure DC current
- Not good for prolonged use
7. General Tools TS04 ToolSmart Bluetooth Connected Digital Multimeter-
Introducing to you the next bluetooth digital hvac multimeter ever. This automotive meter is going to give you a thunderstruck.
Quick Summary
- Integrated Non-Contact voltage detector
- Pairs with a smart phone
- White on black screen display
- Supports highly accurate measurements
- Measure AC/DC voltage and current amperage, resistance, capacitance, frequency, temperature, duty cycle, test diodes, and more
- K type bead thermocouple Probe
- Has hold function
- It has a excellent build quality
But first, a warning, do not ignore the user manual that’s in the package. You would need to familiarize yourself with how it works to get the best result.
Another warning, get your smartphone ready. You would need one if you want to enjoy everything this has to offer.
Hey, before you get too excited, let’s give this to you. The Multimeter features 26 ranges and 10 functions. Having said that, let’s get the show on the road.
Do you have your shock absorber close to you? Because you would definitely need one on this ride.
It’s incredible how a Multimeter with so much value like a smart one click technology is on the list of low cost multimeters. Yes, you read that right.
This Multimeter saves all your data reading to the Toolsmart app on your smart phone. Weeks after you’ve had the data, you can still get to them on your phone. Quite extraordinary!
There’s more! In situations that demand a second viewing screen, your smart phone would be useful when paired to the meter. Also, where more than one artistry is needed on the job, your phone can come to the rescue when connected to the Multimeter.
About visibility, the Multimeter has high visibility. In fact, it is characterized by a White on black screen display. So whatever angle you’re taking your readings from, there’s one sure thing- Easy readability. And, isn’t that what everyone wants?
Needless to say that this budget multimeter is certified safe for CAT III 600V environment.
- Easy to dial settings
- All the basic features
- Solid rubber case
- Lasts for a long time
- Highly sensitive
- No backlight
- The app may not work on all smartphones.
Buyer Guide of Uncomparable Multimeter- Become a Pro when it comes to Multimeter
Check out our buying guide before you shell out some serious cash for this.
What is the difference between a Voltmeter, Multimeter, Ohmmeter, Oscilloscope?
On most people’s tables this question weighs a ton, but don’t worry, we’re going to do justice to it. Right now and right here.
To begin with, these five different instruments have great significant differences. It wouldn’t be smart of you if you decide to replace one for the other even though their names are often used interchangeably.
But get this first, they’re all meters. Hence the presence of the suffix “meter” that ends each term. Now, let’s look at it this way. Whatever prefix that precedes “meter” shows the function of the instrument.
For example, in Multimeter, the prefix “multi” implies more than one. What it means is that multimeter measures more than one parameter. It really is that simple.
So, here we go.
Voltmeter
The voltmeter is specifically designed to measure Voltage across two ends. Other than been used for this purpose, it got nothing else to offer you.
Multimeter
For what it is worth, this can be termed a general-purpose electric device. Why? It can be used to measure the three basic electrical values known as voltage, ohms, and amperage.
Depending on the built, some Multimeters can measure other parameters such as temperature, continuity, diode, frequency, capacitance, and inductance. There are different types of multimeters too. Digital and analog multimeters.
Ammeter
Ammeter is used to measure the current through a circuit.
Ohmmeter
An ohmmeter is for measuring ohms, which in other words means the resistance measurement of a component.
Oscilloscope
Lastly, this tool is used to measure, display, and analyze voltage signals in the form of waves. But here’s the most crucial part. Oscilloscope works by plotting the signal on a graph.
How do you use a Multimeter?
God pardons the ignorant man; that’s what they say. But your digital multimeter is no God and would not pardon you if you do not use it right.
So, don’t be too poor to pay attention to how to use a Multimeter. These are the details:
Remember that the digital multimeter measures several electrical values depending on its model type. But for this lesson, we’re going to limit the measurements to just current, Voltage, and resistance.
In a Multimeter, there are basically four main parts you should pay attention to. The display, the selection knobs, allows you to select the parameter you want to measure, the ports, and the probes.
The first thing to do is to know what you want to measure. Once you’ve got it taped, proceed to take your measurement. Here’s a clue:
Step 1
Assuming you want to measure AC Voltage with your Multimeter, use the selection knob to set the V symbol mode with a wary line. For direct voltage, the mode should be set to the V symbol with a straight line.
Step 2
Connect the red probe to the port having the V symbol close to it.
Step 3
Connect the red probe to the side of the component from which the current is coming from.
Step 4
Connect the port probe to the other side of your component.
Step 5
Take your reading from the screen of the Multimeter.
To use the digital multimeter to measure other parameters, you can follow the same guidelines up there. Although there would be some slight adjustments that should be in place. Visit other articles for more information, please.
Safety and precaution
One of the reasons Electricians watch out for the best budget multimeter to use is for safety reasons. We all know that, right? On the face of it, most hobbyist and DIYers lacks all the proper safety and precautions when it comes to the use of Multimeters.
Read the following safety measures to know how to use a digital multimeter safely.
- Do not operate and store Multimeter in a wet place.
- Test Multimeters before using to detect faults.
- Confirm the condition of any Multimeter before using it. Check all the circuit connections, among others.
- When working with Multimeters, ensure you’re putting on your protective overall.
- Adhere to the Multimeter rated for a particular environment. This points at the CAT safety ratings.
- Don’t touch exposed metal parts on test probes.
- Be alert while using the Multimeter and watch out for any video or audio warnings.
- Avoid unnecessary dropping of Multimeter. This can interfere with the accuracy of the readings.
- Don’t overload your Multimeter
- Cross check the range switch before connecting Multimeter to any circuit
- Follow manufacturers manual closely
- Completely discharge circuits before connecting or disconnecting Multimeter from them.
What can be called a good Multimeter?
The absence or the presence of certain features on a digital multimeter can either make it bad or good. Meanwhile, the struggle to buy a good Multimeter is not funny even for professionals. Well, I think we can be of help here. We’ve got some secrets for you here, how to recognize a good digital multimeter easily.
Let’s start off with this; a good digital multimeter should be able to measure a number of electrical values—for example, resistance, current, frequency, and voltage. If the Multimeter’s quantity measuring capacity is minimal, you need to give that digital multimeter a second thought.
In addition to that, a good digital multimeter should measure both alternating and direct Current, AC/DC voltage as well because that would be a plus for you if such ability is embedded in your Multimeter. You may also want to look at other features like the display because a good digital multimeter should allow for easy and clear readings.
Above all, consider the user interface, the built, and the cost. When we say cost, we do not imply the price at which it is sold. Make no mistake about that. What we mean is the ratio of the cost to its benefits.
In our compiled list of the 7 best multimeters, you would get the best budget multimeter for you.
Which Brand Multimeter is best?
Let me tell you this supersecret- no other brand digital multimeter does it better than Fukes corporation. For decades now, they have been providing outright solutions to the measurements of electrical values.
Fluke Multimeter can boast of good customer reviews, especially when it comes to durability. You would find people tell about Fluke Multimeter they bought many, many years ago, still in very good condition.
These brand Multimeters do not only last longer, but they’re also very safe to use. Before a Fluke Multimeter gets to your hand, be rest assured that they’ve gone through a couple of tests to ascertain its safety. It is loaded with substandard protection against spikes and surges. The company does not seek to protect users alone; they’re also on the lookout for the device’s safety. This is the reason most Fluke Multimeters are protected with rugged rubber casing or holster.
What else? The Multimeter comes top on the list of best budget multimeters. Never for once will a fluke digital Multimeter leave you confused and stranded. Take that from me.
Whether you’re a starter or a professional, Fluke Multimeter got you covered. There is a wide range of brand Multimeters that are suitable for both newbie and experts. They’re easy to use and set up and also a pretty good user interface.
Yes, they’re pricey, but they’re worth every penny when placed on a cost-benefit ratio.
How accurate are cheap Multimeters?
Do you want to determine diode polarity or power polarity? Or maybe you just want to know if a voltage is close to what you need around the house. A cheap digital multimeter is then appropriately accurate for the job, and every other simple job carried out by DIYers.
It all boils down to this- depending on the brand or specifically the digital multimeter itself, cheap Multimeters are accurate enough for light jobs.
But you might be a bit disappointed in the accuracy level of cheap Multimeters for Professional jobs or, better still, jobs that demand a high precision tool.
Meanwhile, a bird in the hand is worth two in the bush. Isn’t that what they say? So if you could only afford cheap Multimeters at the moment, then go for them. Because now, cheap Multimeters are designed to be based on one IC chips that give a high level of accuracy
Even professionals have taken it upon themselves to add cheap Multimeters to their kit tool. This, they believe, will complement the expensive Multimeters and do a good job.
How to check diode for continuity using a Multimeter?
Since diodes are basic components in the electric circuit, one obviously cannot do without them. In short, they’re the first components that get affected when things go wrong. And sadly, they’re in most electrical gadgets, even the ones frequently used at home. A very good example, your clipper.
Wouldn’t then be great if you know how to check diode for continuity using a digital multimeter? So you’d do it like this:
Step 1: The first step to take is to identify the cathode end and the diode’s anode end to be checked.
Step 2: Turn on your Multimeter. Before that, ensure that the Multimeter is not faulty.
Step 3: Set your Multimeter to a continuity test. This part is easy. All you need to do is to rotate the selection knob to the symbol indicating diode.
Step 4: Connect the two probes of your multimeter to the diode. The red probe should go to the anode while the black probe for the cathode should do this correctly.
So what’s the answer? Allow me to explain. If your Multimeter gives out a beeping sound, then your diode is forward biased.
No sound from the Digital multimeter? The diode is reverse biased. It sounds simple. And it is.
Picking the Best Inexpensive Digital Multimeter for you
So, we’ve come to the point. By now, you would have been anticipating our finale, and now you have it.
At the end of the day, we applaud the top digital multimeter- Amprobe 4394419 PK-110 Electrical test kit with a voltage probe.
It’s more than the best multimeter for electronics hobbyist, it allows for fast electrical tests. The excellently packed features, accuracy, and solid built to give off a balance between its cost and benefits with safety.
The best part is this- both beginners and experts have a chance with this digital multimeter. And isn’t that quite a plus?
For the first time, you’ve journeyed through the 7 best multimeters for electrician under 100 dollars in history without paying a dime. Well, that was up to us. Now, the choice is yours, after all, you have to spend money to save money.
Go ahead and satisfy your urge with these best multimeters electrician. Good luck with that.