Have you ever come across repair work on electrical appliances that could easily have been a DIY project but you didn’t have the right tools? You then passed the job to the professionals and it meant spending money that could have been spent on other things. You then think, “If only I had the best multimeter, then I would have done the repair and saved money!”
The opportunity to save money on repair work done on electrical appliances is just among the reasons for having a multimeter at home. Think of it as a must-have, just as with pliers, screwdrivers and wrenches.
5 Best Multimeters for Home Use
1. Fluke 115 True RMS Multimeter- Best Fluke Multimeter
The Fluke brand is undoubtedly the most trusted in multimeters because of their outstanding durability, reliability and overall high quality. This is also true for the Fluke 115 digital multimeter, a unit suitable for daily use because it’s easy to carry, easy to use and easy on the wallet. While it’s affordable, it doesn’t compromise on the level of accuracy for which Fluke is known for.
Quick Summary
- Ergonomic design with compact dimensions
- Large LCD display with backlight
- Diode tester
- Checks all testing ranges
- Runs on aaa batteries
- Auto range feature
No wonder it’s the best homeowner multimeter!
Designed with true RMS Multimeter technology
It can accurately measure different AC waveforms including standard sine waves and irregular waves. As such, it can be used in testing home appliances, digital systems and variable speed drives. It’s also known to hold its accurate readings for several years of regular use.
You can choose from a wide range of measurements including DC/AC volts and amps, diode check, resistance, capacitance, and millivolts. Of course, it’s useful in measuring duty cycle, capacitance, frequency and current.
Rugged construction and high quality
Despite its affordable price, it’s a solid multimeter that can withstand years of use, thanks to its sturdy holster, rugged case and well-protected circuit board. It’s also easy to use with its standard input selector dial and standard probes.
Clear display
Nearly half of Fluke 115’s unit is filled with the large screen with backlight for low light working conditions. Its 6,000-count display makes it easy to see the readings. Its user-friendly dial and buttons are operable with a single finger; these include the data hold, range, function, and min/max buttons.
- Solid build and compact dimensions
- Exact readings every time
- Clear screen of readings
- One-handed operation
- Affordable
- No dedicated range for milliamp and micro-amp
2. TekPower TP9605BT- best automotive multimeter
This is a fully-functional digital multimeter with true root mean square technology that both beginners and professionals can rely on for accuracy over time. While it isn’t as expensive as high input impedance best multimeters, it has several sophisticated features like Bluetooth connectivity that allows for data logging and transmission to compatible devices.
Quick Summary
- True root mean square technology
- Measures all current ranges, as well as temperature and AC/DC millivolts
- Automatic and manual ranging
- CAT III safety rating up to 600V
- 6000-count display
Other useful features include a temperature sensor and thermocouple, which are necessary for monitoring and recording temperature fluctuations.
Accurate readings via true RMS technology
With its true root mean square technology, it can provide true readings of AC signals with both regular and disrupted sine waves. It has dedicated input stations for volts and amps as well as microamps, milliamps and millivolts but it’s necessary to switch between DC and AC, and vice versa. The inputs for resistance and continuity are shared, as is for capacitance and diode checker, a tricky design for complicated electronic repairs.
But for beginners and regular repair work, it’s more than sufficient for the job.
Quite sturdy construction
It has a fairly sturdy case protected by a tight-fitting rubber boot so it should be able to withstand a few falls. Its independent battery case makes the battery easy to access and its test probes are sturdy enough for most home jobs.
Good display
Its 6,000-count display has a good resolution although it may look faded in bright light. In low light environments, its backlight becomes useful.
- Auto ranging function
- Precise measurements over time
- Full range of functions for resident use
- Measures duty cycle, voltage, current and resistance, among others
- Backlight display
- Battery can quickly drain with prolonged data logging
3. INNOVA 3340 Automotive – best cheap digital multimeter
If you’re looking for the best value digital multimeter, especially for automotive applications, then the Innova 3340 is a great choice. In fact, it’s a common presence in an auto electrician’s toolbox since it’s a precision tool for measuring everything from current, volts and amps to resistance, RPM and dwell angle.
Quick Summary
- Tests both solenoids and alternator diodes
- Measures RPM, current and temperature
- Autoranging feature
- Min/Max recording
- CAT II safety rating
INNOVA 3340 performs well compared to other types of multimeters. It even has a clamp designed for ignition cables as well as other features for checking battery voltage and reading temperature.
Easy-to-use auto ranging feature
There’s no need to manually find the range since it’s an auto ranging multimeter. Just select the desired input on the dial and the multimeter will do its job. But you may have to wait a second or two longer than with a manual ranging multimeter, but it’s worth the wait, especially for beginners.
Of course, the measurements are fairly accurate, not to mention that the accuracy level can be maintained for years.
Fairly rugged build
With its sturdy parts, protective rubber boot and contoured design, it’s suitable for use in the rugged conditions of your garage. Be careful about dropping it one too many times, however, as it may not survive as well as a great input impedance multimeter. But its batteries can be accessed via a separate panel so that’s a plus point.
Easy-to-use control panel
The large dial can be operated with just one hand and its 16 input selector stations are laid out in a way that makes it fast to choose the settings. The display panel shows all the information necessary, too.
- Great for use in automotive repairs
- Fairly correct measurements
- Hands-free use
- Autoranging feature
- Good price
- Probes aren’t as sturdy as expected
4. Fluke 87-V – best digital multimeter
There have been numerous superlatives said about Fluke 87-V so we can say that it’s indeed the best mechanic multimeter ! It’s widely considered as the must-have, go-to multimeter for electricians in numerous industries, from the auto industry to the home appliance industry.
Quick Summary
- True root mean square technology AC voltage and current
- Auto and manual range feature
- Dual display resolution with backlit monitor
- CAT II up to 1000V and CAT IV up to 600V safety rating
- Selectable filter
This isn’t surprising as it comes with a guarantee of outstanding accuracy, reliability and robustness despite its low price.
Auto ranging and manual ranging features
The Fluke 87-V multimeter has both automatic and manual range features that allow for switching between these modes. Just press on the Range button to convert from auto ranging to manual ranging; the latter provides faster results than the former but it can be a hassle to use for beginners.
Its response times are impressively fast, too, for a budget multimeter, especially on continuity. It gives off a warning beep in case of incorrect plugging at any time. It also has an automatic Touch data hold feature for hands-free measurement.
Measures all the test ranges
The Fluke 87-V measures nearly everything from the voltage and current to capacitance, resistance and frequency. Being a Fluke multimeter, its accuracy levels are reliable over several years, too.
Outstanding build quality
Its rugged plastic parts mean that Fluke 87-V can be used in residential and commercial settings, not to mention that it’s approved by various agencies like TUV, UL and VDE.
- Authentic readings retained over time
- CAT IV safety rating suitable for both residential and commercial use
- Prolonged battery life
- Fast and responsive control
- Dual resolution screen
- Quite heavy in the hands
5. Amprobe AM-530- best hvac multimeter
Yet another solid electrical tester is the Amprobe AM-530, an auto-ranging multimeter with several useful features. These include non-contact AC voltage detection, battery checker and ranges for milliamp and micro-amp. The true root mean square technology means authentic readings on AC for regular and irregular signals.
Quick Summary
- True root mean square technology
- Measures all testing ranges
- Manual and automatic range
- Diode test
- Min/Max mode for measuring fluctuations
It’s suitable for numerous applications, from checking cable continuity to troubleshooting engine issues.
Plenty of useful features
It has everything that an electrician and hobbyist will want in a multimeter! The current ranges have their dedicated inputs, as well as micro-amps and amps measurements in AC and DC can be measured. It has a CAT II safety rating so it can only measure up to 1000V, a serious limitation for industrial applications but sufficient for residential uses.
Other useful features include VoltSense, a non-contact AC voltage detector, a temperature probe and flashlight.
Clear display and fast responsiveness
We like that the easy-to-read display can still be seen even in bright light and at an angle. The backlight makes it easy to see the screen, too, in low light conditions while the display icons pop out for convenience. The bar graph is among the most responsive in this price category, too.
Well-designed unit
Even at first glance, it’s a well-made multimeter with a nice protective boot. It’s also lightweight and compact so it fits well in the palm of your hand and in your jeans’ pocket. Its large dial and buttons are intuitively designed, too, so these are easy to operate.
- More features for the price
- Great high quality construction
- Large screen with backlit display
- Measures most residential testing ranges
- Manual and automatic range features
- Backlight on screen stays on for short period only
Buyers’ Guide: What Every User Should Know About Best Multimeters First
Multimeter Basics – Everything You Need to Know
There are two main types of multimeters. Analog and digital multimeters works in similar ways with their main difference being the way that the readings are displayed. In analog multimeters, the measurements can be read via a needle and numbers printed on a window. In digital multimeters, these are displayed on an LCD display.
Both, nonetheless, have a set of circuits that measure the testing ranges including voltage, capacitance and resistance, among others. When the probes are tapped into a current of electricity, the electricity will flow through these circuits for measurement. The electricity is converted, in a manner of speaking, into voltage.
Keep in mind that multimeters can be used in the measurement of numerous testing ranges, such as amps, ohms and volts. Its name comes from the fact that it’s an all-in-one tool so it can replace a voltmeter, an ammeter and an ohmmeter. It has become a more popular tool among hobbyists and professionals due to its versatile applications.
Most multimeters have probes that can be connected to electrical circuits for measuring the testing ranges. But there are multimeters that have no-contact voltage detection, a feature that allows for the measurement of voltage without using the probes. Basically, the multimeter itself should be placed on the wall with a hidden electrical line and it will measure voltage within seconds.
Every multimeter has a dial at the center where the user can select the desired testing range, such as volts or resistance. Just turn the dial, place the probes on the electrical circuit, and the screen will display the measurement.
While multimeters are easy to use, it’s best to acquire training in their proper usage since electricity can kill when it’s handled improperly. Most multimeters work in a similar way so you may or may not read the instruction manual when you already know the basics including safety rules.
Should I Fix My Multimeter On My Own Or Get It Fixed By A Professional?
The best homeowner multimeter should last for several years with proper care and maintenance. But like all mechanical devices, it’s subject to wear and tear as well as to malfunctions. Its issues may include not switching on and not giving true readings, which can or cannot be repaired as a DIY job depending on the cause.
Before deciding to have your faulty multimeter checked by a professional, you may want to check on these things first.
- Check its battery by turning on the multimeter and checking the screen resolution. The battery may be weak or dead if the multimeter doesn’t turn on or the screen isn’t bright. Just replace the battery in this case.
- Replace the test leads since these may already be faulty, a usual cause when a multimeter isn’t giving accurate measurements.
- Disassemble the multimeter using a small screwdriver in removing the screws on its case. Check the fuse, wires and other parts that may require replacement. For example, a clear glass fuse should be replaced when its thin wire has burned out while corroded wires should be replaced.
If these steps still don’t work, you may consider getting professional help. But remember, too, that the difference in the cost of professional services and the cost of a new multimeter may not be significant. You may want to consider just buying a brand-new multimeter.
Why Do You Need A Multimeter At Home?
The first reason for getting a multimeter is safety since it facilitate the safe repair and replacement of electrical components in home and kitchen appliances, car engines and others. You don’t want to be electrocuted when you’re handling these things.
Multimeters can be used for a wide variety of residential applications including but not limited to:
- Checking outlets and extension cords
- Spotting hot wires
- Replacing old light bulbs
- Repairing appliances and electronic gadgets
If you’re the DIY type, you should have a multimeter in your toolbox.
Features To Look For In The best electrical multimeter
These are the must-have features in the best multimeters:
- It should measure all testing ranges including voltage, resistance, continuity, capacitance, and frequency, preferably in both AC and DC.
- It has to provide precise readings with an error margins of +/- 2%.
- It should have a large display with good resolution.
- Its features should ideally include manual and auto range.
- It should be compact enough to be operated with one hand.
Picking the best homeowner multimeter for You
The five best multimeters discussed here have outstanding features that make them great for residential use. But in our books, the best home multimeter is Fluke 87-V, the fifth version of the 80 series, because of its excellent overall high quality and lowest price.
As an auto ranging meter, it’s a convenient tool for hobbyists and electricians to use in numerous home applications. Its range button allows for conversion from auto to manual ranging, a feature that translates to faster results. Its automatic Touch data hold feature means getting stable readings without the need for other actions when measuring.
While its default is the AC range, it has separate voltage ranges for AC and DC so it’s still a useful tool for hobbyists and professionals who want a reliable multimeter for everyday use. Its 9V battery should last for a few years since it has a fairly low current usage. More important, its stated accuracy is on point and it can hold true readings for several years.
Even when it’s a fairly affordable multimeter, it doesn’t feel and look cheap! It’s made of sturdy plastic parts and protected with a tough protective boot so it can be used in rugged conditions.