Are you a “do it yourself person” or a professional electrician? Do you want a tool that will help you carry your electrical or engine work swiftly? Then you need to equip yourself with the best multimeter for optimal efficiency and high accuracy.
If you are wondering what a multimeter is, it’s a gadget used to measure electrical units. For people who know the analog multimeters, they used to have a couple of units that were read when the knob was tuned. Luckily, the latest ones come with a digital display for precise and quicker readings.
The useful gadgets are primarily used to check power supply of electronic elements in a circuit board. You can also use it to track blown a fuse in a circuit or short circuit. This device has proved extremely useful to electricians who used to apply other forms of analysis.
The good thing about a multimeter is that you can use it to get ohms, voltage, Farads, impedance, and many more electrical units.
Our Top 10 Picks for the Best Multimeters Reviews
We think it’s vital to test and review the best multimeters products on the market. And even if you fail to find a product among the handy little multimeters we have reviewed, we have provided informative buyer’s guide for high-quality multimeters to help you choose the best one for your needs.
1. INNOVA 3320-Best Multimeter For Beginners
This multimeter from Innova stands out from the rest mainly because of two reasons;
- First, it is made by a reputable manufacturer who has made the best quality multimeter before.
- Secondly, it’s one of the best multi-functional digital multimeters you can ever come across for home use.
For beginners, INNOVA 3320 Digital Multimeter is the perfect meter you need if you want to make a name in the electronic engineering field.
What’s more? You can use INNOVA 3320 Digital Multimeter in solving household problems such as car batteries failure because it is auto-ranging. Therefore, with it, you don’t need to dial in the correct range in electronic measurements.
This best beginner multimeter can input up to 10 Meg Ohms and comes with color indicators on its display screen to indicate the battery power; green color shows it has enough power, yellow shows the battery is weak, and red indicates that its batteries need a replacement.
Other accessories that this multimeter comes with include holders, test leads, and a stand. The rugged red rubber covers placed around its corners are not only meant to enhance its look but also prevent wearing off, or breakage in case the unit slips off your hands.
Want to know what INNOVA 3320 has in store? Of course, you are eager to know or Are you eager to learn more about best automotive multimeters? Then read along.
- It has a large display
- Auto-ranging
- Measures current (AC), resistance, continuity, voltage
- Auto power-off (after 15 minutes if not used)
- Loaded battery tester
Conclusion
I must admit that I find myself digging deeper into details when reviewing these meters. That gives me the joy to test them so that I can have firsthand experience.
Well, by now, you should be pretty informed about the features of this multimeter to make a smart decision regarding whether it would meet your specific needs or not.
The INNOVA 3320 Digital Multimeter has several remarkable features that come along with it, but that doesn’t mean it has no drawbacks. That being said, this testing gadget multimeter is designed for easy testing and not for heavy-duty work. But if you are need of a budget-friendly multimeter that can be used around the house, then INNOVA 3320 Digital Multimeter is a wise buy for you.
- It has a UL certification
- The device comes with a single setting resistance function
- Suitable for DIY projects
- Comes with color codes to help with battery life monitoring
- It is easy to use
- Rubber coves protect this device thereby accelerating its durability
- You have to replace the batteries often
- It serves no specific purpose; multi-functional
2. Fluke 87-V-Top Rated Multimeter
I still believe that this is a best compact multimeter buy for any electrician. Fluke, being a leader in the electronic tool market, has developed quality products since its conception in 1948. They have made a reputation by delivering exactly what they promise as per the needs of the consumer. The 87-V Digital Multimeter is their latest release and comes with auto and manual ranging capabilities that allow it to be used in various situations; you can even measure up to 20A within 30 seconds.
A majority of professionals opt for this Digital Multimeter over other cheaper multimeters for one major reason; reliability. If your job requires accurate measurements and readings, you want to maintain consistency by having an ideal multimeter, and Fluke products offer exactly that. As if that’s not enough, the company offers the best customer support. They are among the best multimeter company.
When you purchase this device, you will enjoy many benefits over other digital multimeters, with one major benefit being able to take accurate temperature redings on a consistent basis.
This useful tool also helps you to take frequency and voltage measurements on adjustable speed drives. This was first invented by Fluke before its competitors followed suit. Now, you too can have this capability while out on the job.
While both digital and traditional multimeters will give similar readings, they are not useful if you cannot easily read the measurements on the screen. Fluke 87-V compact true-rms digital multimeter offers a two-level backlight and large digital display. Give your eyes a break and order this tool to make your job easier.
Now that I have given an overview of Fluke 87-V, what exactly makes this too outstanding?
- The optional magnetic hanger that ensures easier viewing and set up while freeing hands to carry other tasks
- Improved sleep mode to keep its battery longer
- Can withstand up to 8,000-volt spikes caused by faults on circuits
- Large display and two-level bright white
Conclusion
This is the best professional multimeter who often deals with HVAC units. This is because it offers lower and higher range resolution and can also be used to measure frequency, voltage, current, and capacitance. The built-in thermometer is quite reliable and precise.
One of the greatest things about this multimeter besides its primary function is its versatile functions. With a remarkable dual resolution screen, you can detect even the slightest fluctuations in the voltage very easily.
- It is accurate and precise
- Great customer service
- Durable and sturdy
- Convenient for professionals who often deal with HVAC
- It is a bit pricier
- Has no non-voltage detection
3. Klein MM600-Best Voltage Meter
Klein Tools MM600 Digital Multimeter with a highest rate input resistance would still be impressive even at double its price thanks to its great functionalities. At less than $100 it’s simply incredible. This best klein multimete is suitable for anyone who works with electronics or automobiles; do not let the low price fool you into thinking that it is a standard meter just like the rest in its price category.
It is durable, user-friendly, and boasts an array of features. Besides, it can detect nearly anything you will need with an ideal digital multimeter, including AC/DC voltage resistance, capacitance, and the duty-cycle of batteries.
Couple this with the fact that it can easy to read temperature and you have a winner for almost any applications.
All high-end products from Klein are American made as opposed to most of its competitors that are normally outsources, and this meter is among those proudly stamped with the bold statement “Made in the USA.”
The meter is rated to take close to 7-foot drop and has a CAT IV safety rating which will keep you safe from most electricity. With a 5-year warranty, you are guaranteed no errors and malfunctions in construction. Truly, Klein Tools are simply the best and MM600 is just a proof of that.
This meter is particularly useful for electricians who deal with HVAC/R equipment thanks to its range of features such as the ability various temperature readings that makes it suitable for almost any field.
Want to see what MM600 boasts? Well, here are the main features of this unit.
- It measures up to 1000V and 10A AC/ DC
- Built to endure up to two meters drop making it an ideal multimeter
- It has a low battery indicator and has an easily accessible battery
- It’s ideal for use in controlled and basic electromagnetic environments such as businesses, residential, and light-industrial locations
- It includes test leads, carrying pouch, batteries, and thermocouple with an adapter
Conclusion
If you are looking for a multimeter with high precision and accuracy, then Klein Tools MM600 Digital Multimeter is a great choice. For a few tens of dollars, you will get a quality multimeter that you can use in virtually all situations. Since it is offered for under $100 at the moment, you can use this opportunity before its manufacturer thinks otherwise.
Whether you are a professional on a tight budget, or just want multi-functional digital multimeter, you will be able to find one without spending hundreds of dollars. Klein Tools MM600 Digital Multimeter is simply the best choice for you.
- It is easy to use
- Great display that has a backlight
- Sturdy and durable
- A lot of helpful features
- It is affordable
- Its screen may lose contrast at some angles
- Lacks True RMS technology
4. Mastech MS8268 Series-Best Value Multimeter
The Mastech MS8268 may not rival most of the multimeters in reputable brands such as Fluke, but it is a cool multimeter for its price. With reasonably accurate results, high input impedance and durable construction, the MS8268 offers pretty remarkable features.
Let’s face it; we make a lot of hurried guesses when we are troubleshooting; we go from one measurement to another and at times forget that we need to make a connection between the test leads and the banana jack.
However, the MS8268 addresses this issue by offering red blinking led terminals and audible alerts that show you the right banana jack you should use depending on the function of your meter at the moment.
This tool features a big backlit LCD display that comes in handy when making measurements in poorly lit environments. The backlight is evenly spread across the display, and this is a very cool feature for an inexpensive multimeter.
The backlight is activated by pressing a button, and it automatically turns back off after 5 seconds to save battery. However, I would prefer a longer period of the backlight but that’s how most digital meters are, and it’s a kind of a nuisance.
Sometimes you need an auto-ranging meter while in other times, a manual ranging meter is what you require. With MS8268, you can select a manual ranging mode and auto-ranging mode.
Its dial has a well-built surface and doesn’t feel fragile at all as some cheap meters do. This tool runs on three AAA batteries and is located in a separate compartment. Therefore, you don’t have to disassemble the meter to change the battery or fuse. This meter conserves the battery life with auto-power off feature after 5-minutes.
Let’s check out top features, after all, this is what sets it apart.
- Has a manual and auto-ranging
- LED/sound warning
- Has an auto-hold
- Comes with a one-year warranty
- Backlit LCD display
- Auto power off
Conclusion
If you are looking for a fantastic multimeter that has all the features to give you precise readings in various troubleshooting projects then this entry level multimeter is right for you. It is durable and offers some incredible features such as audible alert and red blinking led terminals that notify you when the device is connected properly. This comes in handy for first-timers and novice users who may not be aware of setting up a meter or troubleshooting their electronics.
- It comes with a sound warning to notify you when you wrongly setup the device
- Comes with a bright LED-backlit display for easy reading
- It is durable as it has been created to offer long-lasting performance
- It can save readings thanks to the auto hold feature
5. INNOVA 3340-Best Meter For Electricians
There might not be a perfect digital multimeter for automotive work, but the INNOVA 3340 might be well close to perfection; in fact, we can term it as one of the best automotive multimeters. What makes this multimeter stands out is its combination of features that give it an edge over its competitors. It is certified for a safety rating as per the UL. INNOVA 3340 is the best handheld multimeter and weighs only one pound. It comes with trilingual instructional manual; English, French, and Spanish.
Users can operate this multimeter in various ways. Besides being handheld, this multimeter comes with a stand and wrist strap for hands-free use. While testing car engine for problems, this 10M Ohm circuitry helps ensure that the engine control unit will not get damaged in the process. The INNOVA 3340 will not only be easy to work with, but will make it easier for you to detect where the engine problem is originating from.
Another INNOVA 3340 unit! What features make it unique?
- It is professionally made and has UL certification; it is efficient in identifying engine problems
- Numerous application; breaker points, duty progression, solenoids, wiring, switches, etc.
- Auto ranging for faster and easier value reading
- Protective auto power-off feature
- Comes with a carrying range
- Inductive RPM clamp
- Reverse polarity protection
- Dual temperature measurement available in Celsius and Fahrenheit
- Test lead holders that allow for hand-free usage
Conclusion
The INNOVA 3340 automotive multimeter is one of the best multimeters on the market today. The product comes with great features that any professional electrician looks for. With groundbreaking features such as auto-shut off ability, reverse polarity protection, and many others, you will find easier and stress-free to work with this multimeter. If you are looking for high precision and accuracy, this multimeter is surely a great investment, and it’s worth its price.
To appreciate INNOVA 3340 multimeter, you have to put it into action so that you can see what it offers. To make you understand its capabilities, one thing to note is its ability to measure up to ten megaohms as a measuring range. It’s one of the few multimeters that can do this.
- It has easy-to-read labels
- It includes a comprehensive easy-to-read instructional manual that comes in English, Spanish and French
- Has a large LCD and durable design
- Safe to use
- It has issues achieving a steady zero since the clam current measurement calls for the use of an uncompelled clamp adapter
6. Fluke 323-Best Multimeter Brand
Don’t just have the right tools. Have all the right tools, all the time. The only thing that beats having a handy tool right when you need it is having all the right tools at all times. That way you’ll never really need them because they’re always there.
That’s what the Fluke 323 Clamp True RMS Digital Multimeter does for you. It’s a versatile multimeter with a quick and efficient general-purpose clamp meter. If you’re likely to be working in a dark area and don’t want to go through the ordeal of handling both the multimeter and a torch, then you have nothing to worry about. The Fluke 323 True-RMS Clamp Meter comes with a large LED backlight for work in dim lighting. The light is pure white, guaranteeing adequate lighting during operations.
Highlighted Features
- Its inbuilt thermometer makes it appropriate for HVAC applications
- It has a microamp for flame sensors testing.
- Low input impedance which saves you false readings because of ghost voltage
- Compatible with non-obligatory magnet hanger
- CAT iii 600 v for safety purposes.
- Automobile-v stands for electric volts.
Conclusion
When searching out multimeters for automotive, considers the fluke 323 multimeter. This product is light-weight, designed for optimum comfort and well really worth the funding. Whether you’re a hobbyist or professional, be confident that this meter will in shape your requirements in a friendly and dependable way hence considered as the best hobbyist multimeter for an automatic purpose. This notably enhances the meter’s overall cost and allows you to rationalize the already suitable price. Its affordable price hence makes it the best multimeter for money.
- This is a best-name brand meter at a low priced rate, with a gentle carrying case
- This best hobby multimeter has a preserve button to document the closing analyzing
- Clamp without difficulty hangs on the device, allowing both hands to be free during troubleshooting
- Although they are the cheapest multimeters, they have satisfactory-name logos
- It has a clamp meter which makes it the best multimeter for the electronic use
- It’s easy to apply for this reason it’s taken into consideration the high multimeters for computerized functions
- The manual ranging multimeters do not necessarily measure dc amps
- Limited documentation
7. Extech EX330-Best Pocket Multimeter
Don’t go through the hustle of finding the right multimeter alone. When it comes to packing a bunch of attractive features into a single device, Extech takes the cake. Their multimeters are both versatile and durable and have been designed to be useful to both professionals and amateurs. They also go to great lengths to ensure their products are affordable, no matter what budget you’re working with.
The Extech EX330 has a whopping 12 functions, including AC/DC Voltage current resistance, temperature, capacitance, pulse ratio and frequency. The display is sufficiently large and the figures legible that anyone can easy to read them, even in low light. Whichever unit you select can move toward becoming to be the best possible call, and it won’t harm your financial plan, though it’s limited.
Highlighted Features
- It is rugged and compact
- It has both manual and auto-ranging capabilities
- It measures duty cycle, frequency, temperature and capacitance
- It has a wide range display unit
- The rating ranges from cat iii 600v to cat ii to 1000v
- It has a non-contact AC voltage detector and data hold
Conclusion
Buying this product is not a mistake but a guarantee that it’s a quality product. Every time, you require products with extra functions. You are therefore supposed to choose one which meets all the characteristics that you need.
Shopping for a product with a variety of features that you don’t require can be a problem once in a while, but, due to the fact this unit is inexpensive, you are not risking spending a fortune the Extech EX330. Options that include the low battery indicator or the potential to read the temperatures of different objects within a short time makes this multimeter a device worth sorting out.
- Its miles a certified product and tested for cat iii 600v ul score
- Rubber holster is there which protects the gadget from surprise or harm
- It is a quite effective device with 4000 counts of car-ranging measurements
- It holds a positive fee for a specified time
- For the direct contemporary measurements, you may make small adjustments at the meter’s o point
- The continuous beeps which are given by the multimeter are frustrating to many users. In addition, the beeps are given for unknown reasons
- It lacks an automatic ranging feature
- The metal tips which are on the test leads are short
- It lacks a backlight
- The temperature probe is sometimes not tested properly
8. Fieldpiece SC260-Best True RMS Multimeter
When cutting edge technology meets affordability. The SC260 is right at the cutting edge of technology when it comes to measuring HVACR variables. This compact true-rms digital multimeter includes True RMS readings, allowing you to be far more accurate when testing variable frequencies. It also measures temperature in both Celsius units and Fahrenheit units.
For various reasons, many electrical measurements have to be made in poor lighting conditions. Having to multitask between deftly handling a flashlight to get the right angle of illumination and also taking accurate measurements from your electronic devices isn’t easy. This is why the SC260 features a nifty backlight display. It also has a swivel magnet so you can conveniently take measurements hands free. If that’s not convenience, nothing is.
The new Auto Select mode is all about saving you precious time. Once you’ve set the dial and made the connection, the clamp meter will show the correct type of measurements based on the kind of variable it senses. The resistance on this device is exemplary. Moving from extremely cold environments to extremely warm ones has never been easier. The SC260 has a ton of features that prove handy for measuring just about anything you want to, whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic DIY-er. These include AC/DC voltage detector, current, temperature, capacitance, resistance, continuity, and True RMS. With quick temperature reaction, they flow without issues from hot housetops to cool walk-ins without influencing exactness, while the rough packaging holds up to intense working situations.
Highlighted Features
- Unique capability of measuring both direct current and alternating current
- It has an actual RMS and data hold
- It has a simplified temperature calibration
- It has a non-contact voltage and capacitor
- Has a complex continuous diode test
- Supports hold/max/and min
- It has a world-class LCD backlight
- It has a low battery indicator
- It has an Overvoltage warning signal
- It has the MFD, auto-check diode, and continuity
- For motor windings, it has low ohm range
- Low ohm range for motor windings
- It has a fast auto power-off capability
Conclusion
This is an ideal multimeter for giving out measure temperature. Therefore, you can troubleshoot efficiently, fix, hold and improve the accuracy of your system. For this reason, this is the best multimeter for automotive. For instance, it has sensors and entirely different components that easily manipulate the temperature measurements of your work or residence. Whenever you wish a capacitance check, it will do one for you. It’s able to distinguish between Direct trendy and Alternating contemporary voltage through its automobile operate, that is approachable whereas you’re performing some circuit card troubleshooting and need to deal with every sign kinds at a similar time.
- It gives readings of up to 400A
- It has the capability of measuring both DC and AC voltages hence its considered the best multimeter for electric use
- It has a slightly slim design
- It has a large display hold
- It at times has flaws in voltage and capacitance readings
- The temperature redings are sometimes not accurate
9. Crenova MS8233D-Best Auto-Ranging Multimeter
A multimeter for the everyday man. There are a lot of companies out there offering multimeters, but few of them can even hold a candle to Crenova. Crenova has been in the electricals and electronics industry for many decades and brings a wealth of experience and a great sense of design to its devices. Perhaps the best of these is the MS8233D Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter. This multimeter is the pinnacle of quality and affordability.
The MS8233D has a backlit display for taking easy readings in low light. It also has an automatic power-off feature that enables itself to turn itself off id it hasn’t been in use for more than 15 minutes. The 3.5 digit LCD display makes everything clear for the user, making the taking of readings very easy. This device features over 12 different functions and also has built-in overload protection. This device is efficient then one could expect.
Highlighted Features
- MS8233D is quite a number multimeter with a high 15mm liquid crystal display show and a backlight so that you can study it effortlessly even in dim mild
- It has a high performance and high reliability and is a compact and handheld digital automated multimeter range
- It runs now not best on DC voltage however also on AC voltage. But the usage of DC modern ensures a chunk extra consolation in managing it
- It may be without problems operated in the resistance variation of two hundred ohms
- It has a high frequency of 20 kHz and data hold
- The bundle listing includes appurtenances consisting of a digital liquid crystal display Multimeter
Conclusion
Most of the users who’ve purchased this have been glad about its reducing- part exceptional. Many have favored the luminosity of the backlight that is one in every of a kind. The others are of the view that the price is competitive and affordable. The meter running on a 9v battery isn’t included inside the bought set but readily available. Also, the practice guide has not garnered plenty praise from the customers as it’s far pretty tough to follow. But it is not anything in assessment to the positives that the multimeter has to provide.
The Crenova MS8233D automobile Ranging Digital Multimeter is a must purchase. Consequently if one is seeking out a pleasant budget multimeter, this multimeter need to be stored in thoughts, which in spite of having cons of its stands out in all senses.
- It is a portable multimeter and can be without difficulty carried anywhere
- It’s far a reasonably priced multimeter
- The measurements taken on this multimeter are very accurate
- It is supplied with a guide so that even a non-specialist can also recognize how to use it
- It is a super grab at a low-cost charge
- It has a robust appearance with the clean show
- The batteries are not integrated within the set
- The user manual, even though it comes unfastened, is inaccurate
10. Amprobe AM-510-Best Multimeter For Home Use
Utility for light commercial and residential applications like you’ve never seen before. The Amprobe AM-510 light multimeter might seem suspicious, given the low price, but this rugged best mini multimeter is accurate enough for both a homeowner looking to do some casual DIY and an engineer or electrician.
The low price is to make it affordable for the homeowner. It also happens to be insanely easy to use, no matter what project you’re undertaking. If you’re a technician, on the other hand, this gadget is still a great buy as it will do a lot for you, too. It basically ticks all the boxes for what someone doing light commercial or residential work might want: It’s safe to use, it has an auto sensor for voltage detection, it’s digital, it’s compact, it’s universal, being able to measure resistance, voltage and current, and it comes with a generous 600V rating.
This best home multimeter is a manual or auto-ranging meter that can be used in a variety of situations, including home repair, electrical testing, commercial settings, and even automotive repair and maintenance. While it doesn’t measure temperature, it has all the other necessary features you might want to test for in an easy to use format. These include a non-contact voltage system, a built-in flashlight for low light conditions, a well-backlit display and auto power-off.
Highlighted Features
- Amprobe’s AM-510 comes outfitted with two temperature inputs, a low-pass filter, several micro-amps, Data hold, and other premium-quality features, such as the Min/Max recording, auto & manual ranging, resistance, and state-of-the-art VolTect™.
- You’ll also be able to employ the use of the built-in flashlight to negate the low visibility problems in poor-lit environments. Additionally, there are a couple of “safety” features, such as Velcro strap, the built-in test lead, and twin thermocouples.
- Amprobe’s AM-510 comes in a plethora of style variations – the Residential DMM, HVAC DMM, TRMS, Advanced HVAC, industrial, and more. Each style comes with a different set of features and settings, but even the most basic style will offer you plenty of versatility.
- Rest assured, Amprobe’s AM-510 was rigorously tested for quality, meeting the safety standards of CAT IV and CAT iii (600V and 1000V, respectively). Basically, this is a reliable, powerful, and versatile current tester that boasts a huge value for the cash.
Conclusion
If you’ll as a substitute settles for an excessive exceptional budget multimeter that is depended on within the market, the Amprobe am-510 Multi-functional Digital Multimeter is an excellent option. It is widely recognized inside the industry and over-supplies extra than it guarantees. A great multimeter is what everyone wants to get. A digital one is the best multimeter for the money.
- It’s available in multiple style variations, each coming with different settings and options
- Tested for quality, ensuring impeccable reliability and safety during usage
- Peaks at 600Vac and 600Vdc
- VolTect™
- Outstanding feature outfit
- Decently affordable
- Loose leads on the input terminals
- Slow resistance response
- Potential problems with Min /Max and NCV features
Multimeter Buyer’s Guide
A multimeter is a diagnostic tool used to measure electrical values coming from an electrical connection or an outlet. If you notice a constant tripping of breakers or light flickering in your home. You may need to review the current (amps), the power status of voltage, and resistance (ohms) of the flow of power in your home. This will help you diagnose problems. Also, you can test the power of the batteries with a multimeter.
How Well Do Multimeters Work?
A standard digital multimeter should give valid information about the condition of power sources in your home. Because multimeters are designed to read voltage and current, resistance exposure to excessive power can damage the unit by burning up its parts. Also if plugged in the wrong power source, it can burn up as well.
Different multimeters can tolerate different power strengths. For instance, an HVAC multimeter can withstand more electrical exposure than a basic unit. If you are not sure of how much power is passing through your home electrical lines, do not plug a multimeter into any of your power lines.
Electricity can be fatal, and it’s therefore critical to be safe.
Different Types of Multimeters
HVA Multimeter
Air conditioning unit and heating systems run on 220-volt lines of power, and therefore it is important to have a multimeter that can handle such a great deal of power. These units must be temperature probe. HVAC multimeters can withstand this power and cannot get damage unless you plug them wrongly.
Testing 220V with a multimeter that can’t handle that amount of power will damage the meter and pose a great danger to the operator.
Auto-ranging Multimeter
These are multimeters that do not need to be dialed around when looking for the resistance of a resistor. Typically, you would need to connect your meter to the resistor and start searching until you find the right range; that’s when you get the reading. This multimeter eliminates this hassle and searches for the accurate range on its own. It is handy, but this should not be your main priority.
Fluke Multimeters
These are digital units that are built to withstand rough treatment. They are designed to be waterproof and can tolerate high humidity, shock, and dangerous drops.
You can use a Fluke multimeter for checking batteries just like standard home use multimeter. However, they offer many more services; you can use it to transmit information to your desktop or cellphone.
This means that if you find a hazardous situation that needs to be attended, you can place this tool within a measuring distance and take readings from your phone. With data stored on your phone, you can send it to an electrician or co-workers.
Analog multimeter
In this multimeter, a continuous deflection of a pointer represents the value of power quantity being measured. It measures the duty cycle, current, voltage. and resistance. They are available to measure transistors and capacitors. The actual resistance of these multimeters depends on sensitivity and range chosen.
Digital Multimeter
This is an electronic multimeter that has a digital decimal display such as LCD display. The measurement is displayed by analog to digital converter.
For varying voltage measurement, a bar circuit holds the current sample before a new sample is measured and displayed.
Note; for ease of reading, digital multimeters are the best and are more accurate. Besides, if you abuse or use an analog unit for a long time in difficult condition, you can damage its dial pads and accuracy. Additionally, moisture builds up inside the dial pads thereby damaging the dial space.
Factors to Consider When Buying A Multimeter
There are many multimeters available in the market for testing voltages, currents, capacitances, resistances, and many other parameters. Multimeters are extensively used in testing, repairing, and installing electrical devices. With the increased demand for testing equipment and consequent increase in brands making them, you can find it hard to pick the best digital multimeter for your needs. Here are six factors you need to consider before buying a multimeter;
Specifications
The performance of a multimeter is decided by its specification. By specification we mean, understanding the abilities of your multimeter regarding its AC, DC, AC voltage, DC voltage, and resistance.
Choose a multimeter with CAT rating than you need to operate electrical devices. It is important to use a multimeter that can accommodate more current than what your power source can withstand. This will prevent hazards.
When buying high-end multimeters, check if it provides True RMS value as this may account for DC components.
Accuracy
Ensure that you check the accuracy of your multimeter. Accuracy, in this case, is the maximum permissible error limit that is allowed in multimeter readings.
Frequency measurement
Some multimeters can measure the frequency and also monitor the current and voltage within a given frequency range.
Energy Capacity
It’s good to know the energy capacity of the circuit you intend to work on in advance. This will help you know the maximum transitory voltage that your multimeter can tolerate without the risk of damage.
Resolution
Resolution is the number of digits up to which a signal strength can be measured. It represents the change in output signal brought by miniscule fluctuation in the input signal. Higher resolutions come at the expense of increased times to observe precisely most digit- after the right, most value stabilizes.
Input Impedance
You can get precise measurements by choosing a multimeter that has a wide range input resistance. This is critical if you measure sensitive electronics.
Temperature Measurement
If you require recurrent temperature monitoring needs, go for a digital multimeter that has a dual differential temperature function. This feature allows one to take two temperatures redings simultaneously.
If you keep the above seven factors in mind, it will be easier for you to choose the best multimeter for your needs.
Why You Should Have a Multimeter/ Benefits
Multimeters are necessary for any electrical work; from changing a junction box to installing a ceiling fan, using a multimeter will help determine whether power connection is good or not.
Multimeters are designed to measure three central elements of electrical energy; amps, ohms, and volts. To measure electrical energy, there are two wire leads in a multimeter; touch them to exposed power wires, and they will give you readings which you can use to deduce measurements. Its buttons or dial space determine the energy you are measuring the range.
Without knowing these measurements, you could be in danger of electrical fire.
Here are three major benefits of a digital multimeter;
They Offer Automatic Reading Display
With a multimeter, it will be easier to take and measure readings since its output is relayed automatically in digits through a seven-segment display, unlike an analog multimeter that calls for a closer look into scales when you need to read the values. A digital multimeter is faster and has no risk of human errors, especially for people with poor eyesight, unlike analog units.
They Are Accurate
Typically, a digital multimeter is more accurate and reliable than an analog multimeter as it can provide reading with up to four decimal places; analog multimeters do not show decimal places. When it comes to fluctuations, any value that is within range of the fluctuations is taken as valid.
Has auto-polarity functions
Digital multimeter can also read negative values, especially when it comes to voltage. By placing the probes in the opposite polarity, they will return a negative output. This is another area where digital units become advantageous than analog ones as placing probes in opposing polarity can cause the latter type to break.
Those are just but a few benefits of digital multimeters.
FAQ
Wrap Up
A multimeter is an ideal device for any electrician or homeowner should have. If properly selected for specific needs, it is a useful tool for industrial and household applications. It prepares one to measure current, volts, and resistance in circuit boards, bulbs, fuses, batteries, and other electrical components. You can choose among analog and digital multimeters, but digital multimeters are the best and most efficient as you can download data to a cellphone or computer for analysis and also to oscilloscopes for analyzing change over time.
Among the most important factor, you should consider is sensitivity range of the multimeter. A digital multimeter built for a high voltage range as those meant to be used in automotive electrical systems cannot read low voltages in typical circuit boards and household batteries. Similarly, a digital multimeter built to understand an electrical power grid has a sensitivity range too high for power that has been regulated for ordinary use.
Several other features you can consider include having additional sensors on the multimeter as well as whether it is certified for industrial use or not. When all these factors and the ones discussed in the buyer’s guide to buying the best multimeters, it will be easier for you to find a multimeter that meets your needs.