If you’re here it means only one thing: you’ve been looking for the best multimeters for electronics technician, and you’re in the right place as I have gathered here ten of the digital multimeters you can buy online.
Digital Multimeters have long been mainstays in the toolkit of not just electrical technicians but also mechanics and DIY buffs because of their versatility. With this you’re assured your appliances and equipment, air conditioning, and electronics run smoothly and at optimum levels.
Armed with the best digital multimeter you’ll be able to keep tabs if there are problems and fix them right away. Of course you’ll only be able to do that if you’ve got the proper digital multimeter, and that is where this guide comes in. Our reviews were selected based on a number of factors, including quality, features, customer satisfaction, and best value.
Our Top 10 Picks for the Best Multimeter for Electronics Technician
1. Uxcell DMiotech Multimeter- Best Digital Multimeter for Electronics
Has it ever happened that you’ve got your hands full and you wish there was a way to turn that multimeter LCD on? Well with the DMiotech Digital Multimeter that’s exactly what they’ve job done and more.
The DMiotech auto ranging digital multimeter is one of the best digital multimeter for electronics and also one of the most versatile. It is packed with a lot of specificities that enhance the tool’s functionality while still being easier to use.
All right, let’s take a look at the specificities that make the DMiotech Digital Multimeter an exceptional tool.
- It’s the first digital mini multimeter to have a voice / sound activated LCD backlight.
- This ac voltage detector can detect if there’s little light and turn on the sound control option.
- The digital multimeter has an operating range of 58 F – 1832F/(50C-1000C)
- Being on the cheaper end of the price spectrum, this digital multimeter for electronics comes with auto power shutdown, auto-ranging measurement and true RMS.
- Measures up to 10a ac/dc 1000V
- The DMiotech measures non-contact voltage detection, duty cycle, frequency, temperature measurement, capacitance, AC/DC voltage, current, and resistance, capacitance.
- You can access most of the features through a spin wheel
- The DMiotech is designed specifically to detect and fix common household electrical problems.
- The DMiotech also has the features to repair common car electrical issues.
- Its sound control feature really comes in handy when your you’ve got your hands full and need that light on right away.
- The user manual is well written and does an excellent describing the multimeter functions and what you need to do.
- The DMiotech makes it easier to switch from auto to manual ranging.
- Ideal for accurate measurements
- It helps to conserve battery power
- Has features found in more expensive digital multimeters
- Safety ratings features
- Easier to use
- The batteries are included
- With 1 year warranty
- Cannot be used to test car battery load
- Backlight display on/off and hold combo button is a little tricky
Conclusion
If only for the voice controlled LCD light, the DMiotech would be a solid buy. But that’s not all.
The voice activation LCD is cool, but as I’ve shown in this digital multimeter reviews, the DMiotech is packed with a lot of other features. Because it’s able to measure a lot of electronics it saves you the trouble and money of buying separate measuring utilities.
The version I reviewed is the Smart V. There are 3 other options, the Smart A which measures temperature, B loads batteries and C handles capacitance. I chose Smart V because it comes with most of the features of the others.
2. Fluke 287 Multimeter- Best Multimeter for Electricians
Because you’re an electronics technician, you never want to settle for anything less than the best multimeter for electronics, and that’s the way it should be. After all as a professional, your clients expect nothing but the best.
The Industrial Digital Fluke Multimeters knows that’s exactly what you need, and I’m happy to say this digital HVAC multimeter comes with the essential features that an electronics needs. Even better, the Industrial Multimeter Fluke 287 is still easier to use.
So what is it about this nifty little tool that makes it in demand among electricians? Let’s examine it closely.
- The 287 comes with logging calculations so everything is recorded even if unattended.
- The Industrial Digital Multimeter Fluke 287 has been certified safe to install in category 2 installations up to 300 V and category 1 installations up to 10000V.
- It can clearly show you analog bar graphs of your results
- This digital quality multimeter tracks metrics and looks for anomalous signs over long periods.
- The Flux has a data logger and includes a data hold, clock, average, minimum, maximum and onscreen graphs.
- The interface is multilingual so non English speakers can still use it.
- All the Fluke models come with a lifetime warranty
- Its true RMS meter gives you accurate readings.
- You can export the digital multimeter data on your computer.
- The count is up to 50,000.
- This hvac multimeter for electronics can detect the smallest of changes in the input signal, and hence are a lot more sensitive
- Fluke multimeter 287 measures duty cycle, pulse width, resistance, temperature, capacitance, frequency, voltage, current, test diode, and conductance.
- It has safety rating feature and Fluke 287 conforms to the IEC, CSA and UL safety requirements.
- Most of the features are accessed by a spin wheel
- You can zoom up to 14x to assess data. Up to 10,000 events can be viewed.
- Large backlit screen
- Meets the UL, CSA, IEC safety features
- Very useful logging feature
- Large lcd screen for easy to read
- comes with a lifetime warranty
- Made from durable components
- Lots of advanced capabilities
- Rubberized corner guards
- Ideal for accurate measuring
- May be too advanced for new users
- Does not come with USB connection support
Conclusion
There are a few more things that you need to know.
As feature packed as the Fluke 287 is, the onboard help makes it easier for even a first time user to know what features to use. So whether you want to check the minimum, average, frequency etc the Flux makes it easy to do so.
And if you’re wondering if the Fluke multimeters are usable in the dark, yes it is, as it has an LCD display makes reading clear. This LCD is also where the device shows possible anomalies so you’ll be notified right away.
3. Amprobe 30XR- Best Electrician Multimeter
If you have spent any time looking for the digital multimeter for an electrician, the name Amprobe should be familiar. With the auto ranging digital multimeter amprobe 30xr you’ve got a digital multimeter for electrical and industrial related work.
You really can’t ask for more than that, but this best budget multimeter does offer a lot more that makes it suitable for the electrician who does not want to compromise.
And famous brand name aside, the auto-ranging digital multimeter 30XR-A has an impressive feature set.
- This is a non-contact voltage multimeter up to 600 V AC.
- There’s a low battery indicator built in.
- It comes with a tilt stand and as well as rubber grip
- Its auto power shutoff conserves battery life. The required 9v battery is included by the way.
- The auto ranging digital multimeter 30XR-A is fully rated for AC/DC 10 amps, and the design makes it easier to access the fuse and battery.
- This particular model comes with a K-Type thermo probe, test leads, user instruction manual, and PC software and smartphone apps
- This auto ranging comes with a handy temperature probe, easy-carry case
- The manual display is up to 1999 counts.
- The Amprobe features include ABD average, peak and relative. With its sizable lcd screen – 3 1//2 LCD display makes reading clear.
- There is an input warning notification if the input leads are incorrectly set.
- The XR has integrated auto ranging for accurate measurement.
- The digital multimeter, probes, and the carrying case weigh around 3 lbs so it’s ideal for the electricians on the go.
- With its magnetic hanging strap and magnetic grip holster you can hang this on any metal object.
- The digital multimeter is well built and can handle rugged use.
- Its feature set is good enough for most home repair and electricians related tasks.
- 7 different styles are available
- Comes with a continuity beeper
- 100% safety fused
- Comes with a convenient carry case
- Clear digital display screen
- With 1 year warranty
- Magnetic and Hanger Strap included
- Easy to use
- Doesn’t have a temperature checker
- The continuity testing, which is really slow
- I don’t find its back lit display unit top notch
- The input leads are just all right
Conclusion
The 30XR-A is a best electricians multimeter, but how is it different from the other XR versions? What’s the difference between this and the others?
In brief, the 33XR-A has capacitance and temperature, the 38XR-A is compatible with a PC interface. The 37XR-A has the Amprobe Logic Test, the 37XR-A with NST certification, the 355XP-A has frequency, temp and capacitance and the 34X-A with backlight and temp.
Each version has some special feature, but I like the 30XR-A for its non contact voltage detection and the large lcd screen for easy to read exact measurement reading and assessing.
4. Fluke T5- Best Multimeter for Engineering Students
Who hasn’t tried to do an electrician job? Most of us have, and you can do that provided you’ve got something like the Fluke T5-1000, which is one of the best multimeter for electronics at its price tag.
I’ve come across a lot of digital multimeters both good and bad, and after reviewing the T5-1000 it’s easier and less confusing to why this has the approval of a lot of electricians. It’s packed with a lot of useful features without compromising ease of use.
Let’s dive in to those features and see what they can do, shall we?
- The voltage ac/dc range is 0 to 1000 volts
- Non-contact voltage testing and able to measure all of the important factors: current, voltage, resistance, etc
- The input leads are compatible with Fluke test clips so you can still use those.
- The T5-1000 testing AC/ DC voltage and current automatically and accurately.
- Its SlimReach probe tips conform to the national electrical requirements.
- Includes a K type temperature probe with a rubber holster to protect the tool
- With its auto turnoff mode the T5-1000 prolongs battery life. The digital multimeter is already adept at conserving battery so this makes a huge difference.
- There is a continuity beeper and Open Jaw current measurement built in the multimeter. Its Open Jaw makes measuring easier and faster.
- All the Fluke models come with a lifetime warranty
- Its test leads is durable and compact, making it easy to pack when you’re on the go. You can also accessorize the leads with Fluke multimeters specialty probes and alligator clips with banana plugs, needle tip probes, and a temperature probe
- This best dmm for electronics is durable enough to handle a drop from 3 meters / 10 feet. This gives you an idea of how durable it is.
- The T5-1000 is designed for longer connections compared to the average solenoid tester.
- Easy to use
- Comes with a lifetime warranty
- Reliable performance
- Designed to monitor and repair common electrical issues
- Has NIST certification
- Test lead test is solidly made
- No mounting option
- Does not come with USB connection support
- The holster design could be better
Conclusion
I’ve noted a lot of the features on the T5-1000, but I just want to mention a couple of things here.
The first is that even though the T5-1000 is feature packed it’s still easy to use. You just choose the current, ohms or volts and the multimeter does the work. I also like how its Open Jaw current allows you to evaluate currents to 100A maximum.
Lastly it’s input leads are really good. I’ve had issues with other digital multimeters as their leads are practically useless, but not in this case.
5. IDEAL 61-744- Best multimeter for Appliance Repair
A brand name that calls itself ideal should have a digital multimeter that’s suited for the demanding electrician. And after a thorough review of the 61-744 I have to say the brand name lives up to its name.
If you’re looking for the multimeter for home use, the 61-744 clamp multimeter is as good the best multimeter for mobile repairing as any. It’s compact and well designed, with just the right amount of capabilities without being complicated.
If you’re still not convinced the 61-744 is a compct multimeter, here’s a detailed look at its features and capabilities.
- The 61-744 can measure 600AAC maximum which is exactly what most electricians need.
- With its low battery indicator you’ll know when it is time to get a replacement. This allows you to work continuously and proficiently.
- Includes a type k temperature probe with a rubber holster to protect the tool
- The 61-744 has an auto power shutoff so even if you forget, the unit turns off automatically to save power.
- The 61-744 also has a data hold function and tapered jaws for easier to use.
- This budget multimeter comes with insulated test probes
- This multimeter to accurately measure AC current and voltage.
- It can be hooked up magnetically to tool belts for general ease of use and storage
- With its 2 year warranty you can feel confident about using this digital multimeter for extended periods.
- The digital multimeter lets you switch between auto and manual ranging depending on your preference.
- With its data hold the Clamp Pro Clamp is able to record previous data, handy you’re doing a lot of field work.
- The Clamp Pro Clamp is certified for CAT III 600 V, an indication of how good the design is.
- The non contact voltage indicator makes the Clamp Pro Clamp suitable for extended use.
- The Clamp pros lightweight so it won’t slow you down even if you carry a lot of gear.
- Has excellent feature set
- Accurate measurements of measure capacitance, frequency, temperature, and pressure
- User friendly design
- Has a two year warranty
- Good for regular and advanced home electrical repair
- Doesn’t provide RMS readings
- Continuity function is very slow
- I don’t find its back lit display unit top notch
- Does not come with USB connection support
- Clamps could have been smaller
Conclusion
Ideal is known for making a lot of good digital multimeters, but I’ll be honest with you. Pound for pound the 61-744 is one of the best multimeter for multimeter for electronics or computer repair they’ve got.
For all its features the Clamp Pro Clamp is still easy to use. It’s also versatile, and I especially like the tapered jaws as it keeps the digital multimeter secure. It’s not the fanciest multimeter in the market but it gets the job done, and that’s what matters.
6. Milwaukee 2235- Best multimeter for Mechanics
Seriously, are there any electricians who haven’t heard of Milwaukee? It is one of the best budget electricians multimeter at this price range, and the 2235-20 true rms is a good example of why it’s a leader in the market. For performance and ease of use this is a winner.
An electrician needs a dependable multimeter to perform all kinds of tasks, and the 2235-20 lives up to the brand’s high standards. This is a true RMS multimeter for electronics that’s as effective for home use as it is for commercial hvac applications.
Want to know more about the 2235-20 and what it can do? Okay here goes.
- The 2235-20 one inch jaw measures up to 350 MCM cable connection.
- The digital multimeter has a CATIII 600V rating which means it is suitable for electrician related tasks.
- With its B&W display it’s convenient to understand the measurements. The screen is backlit display so you’ll be able to see in dimly lit locations.
- Able to measuring electrical current, voltage, resistance and capacity.
- Its over molding improves your grip and the unit’s durability.
- The 2235-20 has a continuity function and its resistance measurement is up to 400 ohms.
- With a 400 amp AC measurement limit, the 2235-20 is well suited for many home, commercial and industrial applications.
- You can use the 2235-20 to check on ohms, DC volts and AC volts.
- With the 2235-20 you can obtain the average, difference, highest, and lowest of the supported measurements.
- There’s a LED flashlight built in so you can use the 2235-20 in dimly lit places.
- The supplied alkaline battery lasts longer than most so you don’t have to worry about running out of power anytime soon.
- Its design allows for quicker wire measuring in bundles or panels.
- Made from high build quality materials
- It helps to conserve battery power
- The 2235-20 is easy to use
- Measurements are accurate
- The thin jaw profile simplifies measurements
- Comes with 2 AAA batteries
- User’s manual needs to be downloaded
- Continuity function is very slow
- I don’t find its backlit screen unit top notch
- Continuity beeper could be higher
Conclusion
That’s quite an impressive digital multimeter right there, but there’s more.
An electrical test lead set is included for your convenience, and the user manual is simple to follow and explains in detail the major functions of multimeter.
Overall the Milwaukee 2235-20 Clamp Meter does a good job in measuring currents and checking for potential anomalies. It’s an ideal tool for the serious electrician.
7. Mastech MS8268- Best Multimeter for Electronics Hobbyist
Have you ever wanted a auto ranging multimeter that’s affordable and versatile? Well all of us do they’re hard to find. Many digital multimeters make that claim but rarely deliver, but the mastech ms8268 models does and then some.
This isn’t just one of the excellent electronics hobbyist multimeter but is good enough for electricians. It covers the important ranges but is still simple to use. There’s also a 1-year warranty to boot.
Intrigued by the MS2868? Here’s the lowdown on its major features.
- The mastech ms8268 measures AC/DC voltage, current, resistance and capacitance. This gives you the flexibility necessary to do heavy-frequency duty electrician’s work.
- It has red LED indicator and low battery indicator
- LED / Sound Warning when incorrect banana jacks
- Its temperature operating range is 0 – 40 C (32 – 104 F) so you’ll have no problem using this in varied environments.
- High input impedance with relative measurement for all ranges except frequency
- With 400 mV – 750 V, the MS2868 can measure and handle various kinds of electrical projects.
- The backlit screen ensures a smoother user experience. The displays measurements clearly, and the backlit display makes reading comfortable even if it is dark.
- Rubber corners for drop protection
- By using its auto power off the MS2868 saves battery life. You can disable this feature if you’ll be using the MS2868 continuously.
- For one thing, this multimeter conforms to the CAT II 1000 V, CATIII voltage ac/dc 600V and IEC1010-1 standards. This provides electricians and homeowners peace of mind when using the tool.
- There is overload protection and it has resettable fuse.
- Packed with excellent features at this price tag
- Convenient to switch between auto and manual ranging
- Protective rubber sleeve prevents damage
- Auto shutdown can be disabled
- We like the sound warning function
- Bright backlit display
- Easy to use
- Very accurate
- Batteries are not included
- I faced significant problems during lengthy debugging sessions
- Cannot do ohm readings down to 1000th
Conclusion
Mastech has manufactured a lot of quality digital multimeters, but the MS8268 Series ranks up there with the perfect electronics hobbyist multimeter for that they’ve made.
I’m not going to repeat the stuff I already said in the reviews, but I will add that this is one of the most accurate out there. The functions are intuitive, it’s compact and the carrying case is solid as well.
When it comes to digital multimeters, all electricians want is reliability and accuracy, something to depend on when you’re out in the field. I can say for certain the MS8268 Series fits the bill and more. It’s quite simply a budget multimeter.
8. AstroAI- Best Multimeter for DIY Electronics
What’s an electrician to do if that old multimeter no longer meets your needs? Get a new one of course, preferably something like the AstroAI 6000 true rms. If you’re on the lookout for the best multimeter for electronics and diy electronics then this ought to be on your shopping list.
The AstroAI 6000 is well built for residential and commercial applications. It’s also versatile enough to handle the needs of the DIY enthusiast and the electronics professionals, plus it is safe to use. It features low profile pins that can easily enter a wall to take data without leaving damage behind and it can be hooked up magnetically to tool belts for general ease of use and storage.
If that doesn’t pique your curiosity, I am sure the following features will.
- With its continuity test you can easily join the test leads to the circuit points you want to check out.
- The AstroAI 6000 works for a variety of ranges. You can use this to test temperature, check diode transistors, frequency, duty cycle, capacitance, continuity, resistance, current and voltage.
- Measures voltage up to 600V AC/DC, AC/DC current
- Comes with advanced troubleshooting functions and a separate thermocouple probe
- The most obvious one being the complicated layout of the buttons and cable connection points
- The multimeter comes with a kickstand and a hanging strap so you’ll be able to use this in different ways.
- Its auto shutoff feature ensures optimum battery usage and prevent overheating.
- Its data hold allows the AstroAI 6000 to store previous data to be used for reference later.
- As a true root mean square (true rms) you can use this multimeter to accurately measure AC voltage and current.
- By using its auto ranging capability you get accurate measurements all the time.
- The AstroAI 6000 tubes are explosion proof and they have been fortified with extra protection for all the ranges.
- Easy to read
- Nice set of features
- Safety elements well implemented
- Professional level construction
- Well backlit display
- The backlight only stays on for 10 seconds
- There’s a loud beep when you turn the dial
Conclusion
When AstroAI said this auto ranging multimeter is for home use, commercial and automotive use, they sure weren’t kidding. But there’s more.
No need to go over the stuff I already mentioned in the review above, but I’ll add that the AstroAI 6000 is one of the best multimeters for electronics instruments I’ve tried. Even if you’ve never used one before, the instruction manual explains how to use your new digital multimeter.
Digital multimeters for electronics are a dime in a dozen, but the AstroAI 6000 stands out for its functionality and versatility so it belongs on this list. Overall, one of the best multimeter for electronics at its price range.
9. TOUGS M102- Best Multimeter for Small Electronics Repair
has earned a solid reputation for creating some of the best multimeters for diy electronics, and the M102 shows this to be true again. We’ll get into the feature set shortly, but I’d like to say right now they’re all useful, with zero fluff.
A lot of electricians and DIY buffs like the TOUGS because it’s accurate and has lots of good features. With the M102 true rms multimeter you’ve got a multimeter that’s ideal for the household, electronics hobbyist, and electrician.
Ready to take a look at the M102 and how it can make your life easier? Of course you are.
- The M102 measure AC/DC voltage, current, frequency, continuity and does diode tests.
- Its AC/DC current measures up to 10A, AC voltage to 750 V, DC voltage to a maximum of 1000 V and up to 60MD resistance, current.
- The M102 able to measure temperature up to 1832 F and 9.9MF capacitance.
- With its auto ranging function you’ll be able to take each measurement accurately. The M102 self calibrates to make sure the measurements are accurate.
- For one thing, This 6000 count multimeter makes it easy to read the measurements being displayed.
- Its data hold keeps track of the previous measurements you took.
- The M102 is certified for the CAT III 600V AC/DC voltage and has dual fuse wiring for safety.
- It features low profile pins
- The self calibrating chip assesses the situation prior to any test to ensure the results are accurate.
- Because it is a true RMS, the measurements for non linear loads is accurate.
- There is overload protection integrated in the unit.
- Comes with a kickstand and a hanging strap so you’ll be able to use this in different ways
- There is a hold mode on available.
- It is also lightweight and easy to attach to your tool belt via an onboard magnet
- Large LCD Backlit screen
- Versatile multimeter
- Durable build quality that lasts longer
- Meets safety standards to electronics work in cat iii 600 v environments
- Measures with precision
- Well made protective elements
- Ergonomic design
- The lcd backlit display cannot be locked
- Not a non contact voltage multimeter
- Continuity feature is a bit slow
- No HFE transistor gain
Conclusion
With such a comprehensive feature list, many electricians like to have the M102 around. From the 6000 count, large led display and auto ranging there’s not a lot more to ask for.
I also like the fact that for all its features the M102 is small enough to fit in your pocket. I wasn’t able to mention this earlier, but the probes are well made with only a small amount of exposed metal.
Taking everything into consideration, the M102 multimeter gives the electrician what they need plus a bit more.
10. Southwire Tools & Equipment 12070T- Best Multimeter for Tube AMP Repair
Last but not least on our list is the 16040T from Southwire. It is difficult to find a product that lives up to claims of being one of the best multimeters for computer repair but the 16040T does.
This isn’t just for fixing computers though as it is also good for other tasks. With ten functions built in, an electrician can do a lot of good here. This is one of the best true RMS multimeter for home use, I’ve seen to be honest.
Okay, it’s time to turn our full attention to the 16040T features.
- This true RMS multimeter measures ac and dc current and voltage, diode test, temperature measurement, resistance, and capacitance accurately and detects distortions and anomalies.
- This has a IP67 rating, meaning it is waterproof and dustproof. This allows you to take the 16040T in rugged environments.
- With its magnetic and hanger strap, you’ll be able to use the 16040T hands-free
- You can use this digital multimeter to check voltage and assess the peak
- The best feature is that it will beep at if you put the wrong thing into the input jack
- This can measures voltage AC/DC voltage, current, resistance and capacitance
- The 16040T evaluates AC and DC voltage up to 600V so it’s capable of handling several electricians’ duties.
- This digital multimeter able to measure resistance up to 40 megaohms and has a hold function built-in.
- Its minimum and maximum capture work on various measurement ranges. By using this feature you’ll get optimum results no matter what the range is.
- This with a low-pass filter can be useful when working on motor drives and other noisy circuits
- Auto-sleep mode function after fifteen minutes of inactivity
- The 16040T has a duty cycle, frequency, and capacitance measurements so you don’t have to use buy other tools.
- High input impedance and durable construction,
- CAT III 600 safety features
- Its continuity sounder is quick and complements the other measuring features here.
- It also features audible continuity check and diode checker test.
- Large LCD Backlit screen
- Well built from high quality parts
- This is often defined as the maximum allowed error limit in one reading
- Meets CAT III 600 safety features
- Continuity feature is a bit good
- Durable build quality that lasts longer
- It allows you to share measurement results with anyone via Facebook, Twitter, or email
- Waterproof
- Dust proof
- Hands free use is great
- Good range coverage
- No casing included
- Not a non contact voltage multimeter
Conclusion
Southwire outdid themselves with the 16040T, as it’s crammed with the features an electronics technicians wants and needs.
But what I really like about the 16040T is it comes with a lot of features but remains easier to use. I’ve also got to say the 6040T is solidly built for its size. Sure it’s compact but you can take this in different environments.
The bottom line is the 16040T is an exciting multimeter for home use, with lots of cool and useful functions that it’ll come in handy at home or when you’re working.
Buying Guide: Best Electronics Multimeter
If you’re looking for the best electrical tester of digital multimeters there are a lot of features that you need to consider. Without further ado, let’s get on with it.
Safety First
Digital multimeters for electronics are assigned CAT ratings to determine where you can safely use the device. Here is a quick guide.
- CAT I: a CAT I multimeter can only be used in circuits if it is not hooked up to a power supply. It is best used in 24V circuits. These digital multimeters are often used for electronics testing.
- CAT II: you can use CAT II multimeters on plugged in electronics, provided it’s under 100A circuit. It needs to be below 22,000 volts and on circuits between 110V and 240V. A CAT II multimeter is ideal for household loads and appliance testing.
- CAT III: these are all around multimeters that you can use for every application prior to the main breaker. In other words you can utilize this for every device that is connected to the main. These multimeters are often used to test small industrial light fixtures and commercial lighting.
- CAT IV: a CAT IV rating means you’ll be able to use it with a direct power source. This is for testing main feeds in residences, commercial structures and power lines.
- Buy a model with a magnetic belt attachment for safe transport
If you search for the multimeter under 50 dollars, you’ll find that many have an auto cut off to keep it from reaching critical levels.
A few more safety reminders
- Think of your current and future needs before buying a multimeter. Don’t use a multimeter for loads larger than it is designed to handle. Doing so could damage the device.
- Read the operating instructions before using a multimeter.
- Replace both batteries at the same time.
- The zero range knob is utilized for resistance measurement. It is located close to the dial and only functions if the batteries still have power.
- Buy a model with a magnetic belt attachment for safe transport
Features to Look For
Multimeters are often used to test current, resistance and voltage. Even the most basic multimeter can measure these ranges.
- When measuring volts, the meter checks the possible difference in voltage or energy. A multimeter measures the energy difference without causing a charge.
- When measuring resistance, a multimeter looks at an element’s resistance to the flow of electricity.
- A multimeter can also measure closed circuit current. For this to electronics work, the meter needs to be part of the circuit and allow electricity to flow.
The best multimeters for electronics engineers or electronics professionals come with different features depending on how they’re meant to be used. The thing to keep in mind is the lowest and highest inputs of the multimeter determines what ranges it can be used for.
A multimeter can also be used for the following
- Boiler electrics troubleshooting
- Car electronics troubleshooting
- Assess light switches
- Check integrated circuits
- Transistors evaluation
- Assessing bulbs
- Test batteries and fuses
The sensitivity range of the multimeter is the most important element in determining what rang the meter can electronics work with.
Here are a few more features that you may want to look for before buying a multimeter.
Oscilloscopes
Digital multimeters equipped with oscilloscopes that enables it to record readings. This is a crucial feature especially if you need to keep track of recordings for a range. Recording will also be vital if you’re looking for signs of malfunction or anomalies in a device.
Autoranging
An autoranging feature automatically adjusts the meter to correspond with whatever range you’re trying to measure. An auto-range feature saves you time and shortens the time it takes to test.
ISO or NIST Certification
This indicates the multimeter complies with certification companies and provides assurance the multimeter delivers accurate readings. Certification and calibration indicate the meter meets the minimum standards set by these organizations.
Backlit Display
The display has made using a multimeter much easier. The best ones display large digits and make usage simpler. With a backlit display, you’ll be able to read results in basements and other dark places.
Hold Function
A hold function prevents the screen from changing and is especially useful if you are taking down notes.
Display Rate
Digital multimeters display the test results accurately on LCD screens. The display rate tells you the speed of the display’s refresh. The quicker the display rate the more precise the readings will be.
Transistor Testing Circuits
As the name implies, these are used to determine if a transistor is working or not. This feature is useful for checking integrated circuits and digital logic circuits.
able to measure Capacitance
This feature is used to gauge a transistor’s ability to keep an electric charge. This is only available on digital meters.
Temperature Sensor
This function is used to determine temperature, handy if you electronics work on temperature sensitive components and computer parts.
Other features that may prove useful are data acquisition, irremovable data storage, adjustable sample rating and a bright, easier to understand screen.
Manual or Auto-Ranging?
When a multimeter is in auto-range mode, it determines what range you’re testing. Set the multimeter up and it will take care of the rest. The autoranging mode saves you time and you don’t have to worry about the values involved of voltage, capacitance, resistance, current and so on.
With A765re manual range you’ll need to input the values. This takes more time but advanced electricians may prefer this if they’re very particular about the measurements.
Digital vs Analog Multimeter
Some of the multimeter for electronics work by using digital technology as it improves the accuracy level and how the readings show up.
A common feature of a digital multimeter is an LCD display where you can see the readouts. The accuracy of digital multimeters is at least 2% for AC and 1% for DC. In some cases you’ll be able to connect the multimeter to a computer and download the data.
Analog multimeters is more difficult to read as it uses numeric scale and a bar. Using the marked numbers you’ll need to do some interpolation to get a reading.
Voltage Range
The capacity of a meter depends on where and how it will be used. Similarly the needs of a homeowner will be different from that of someone who works in an industrial complex.
The good thing is the majority of multimeters can electronics work with mV, main power sources and more. The more versatile its voltage range is the better for an electrician.
Design and Built
A compact multimeter must be more than feature packed, as it needs to be portable and durable. As an electronics technicians you need a multimeter that is lightweight and easy to attach to your tool belt, especially if you carry a lot of other stuff. If you can put that multimeter, all the better.
The layout and interface are important too. Make sure the buttons are easy to access so you can quickly change the settings. As for the colors that’s a matter of personal preference. A lot go for yellow, orange or something bright because they’re easier to spot in case you drop it.
Accuracy
There is no need for a long explanation on this one. Get the most accurate digital multimeter you can afford especially if you’re an electrician. For the electronics hobbyist or for use around the home, such a high accuracy may not be needed.
FAQ
Picking the Best DMM for Electronics for You
All right, we have gone through the top 10 digital multimeters and examined their features, advantages, and disadvantages. Now is the time I have to choose a winner and believe me it wasn’t easy as all the products here are exceptional.
I based my decision on performance, durability, ease of use and how practical it is for an electronics technician or anyone to use. After weighing the pros and cons – not to mention a lot of comparison tests – I chose the Fluke 287 True RMS multimeter.
The Fluke 287 comes with a lot of features, and as my review shows it’s got just about everything an electronics technician will need. I am not going to list those features again, but suffice to say, electronics professionals, electronics hobbyists, and homeowners will appreciate it.
More than anything else, the Fluke 287 is easy to use and accurate. It also provides the best value for your money and eliminates a lot of the hassle that comes with the measuring currents, voltages and the like.
Bottom line is this: the Fluke 287 is the best multimeter for electronics technician, the homeowner and anyone who wants the best-rated multimeter. It’s a true root mean square (true rms) with lots of practical features and still being versatile.