Top 10 Best Multimeters and Buying Guide 2021; Which Multimeter Do Your Need?

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 multimeters for home use for optimal efficiency, safety features, and high accuracy. If you are wondering what a multimeter is, it’s a gadget used to measure electrical units.

Photo	Product	Buy
	Fluke 87-V Digital Multimeter	View On Amazon
	Klein Tools MM600 HVAC Multimeter, Digital Auto-Ranging Multimeter for AC/DC Voltage, and Current, Temperature, Frequency, Continuity, More	View On Amazon
	Mastech MS8268 Digital AC/DC Auto/Manual Range Digital Multimeter Meter	View On Amazon
	Innova 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter	View On Amazon
	Fluke 323 True-RMS Clamp Meter	View On Amazon

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 readings.

The useful gadgets are primarily used to check the 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 electrician tool kit 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, input impedance, and many more electrical units.

Our Top 10 Best Multimeters Reviews

We think it’s vital to test and review the 10 best multimeters products on the market. And even if you fail to find a product among the handy little digital multimeters we have reviewed, we have provided informative buyers guide for high-quality digital multimeters and make sure the multimeter you choose the best one for your needs. Below, you can find our best multimeter reviews 2021.

1. INNOVA 3320 Hands Free Meter-Best Multimeter For Beginners

This high end multimeter options from Innova 3320 stands out from the rest mainly because of two reasons;

• First, it is made by a reputable manufacturer who has made the best industrial multimeter before.
• Secondly, it’s one of the best multimeter you can ever come across for home use.

For beginners, INNOVA 3320 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  in solving household problems such as car batteries failure because it is an auto-ranging multimeter. 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 digital large lcd display 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. It is powered by AA batteries and costs very little.

Other accessories that this innova 3320 high-end multimeter comes with include aaa batteries, alligator clips, holders, carry strap, test leads, and a stand for hands-free use. 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. It capability to test AC and DC voltage, resistance, and diodes.

Conclusion

I must admit that I find myself digging deeper into details when reviewing these meters. That gives me the joy to tests both AC and DC (direct current) for voltage so that I can have firsthand experience.

Well, by now, you should be pretty informed about the features of this high-end multimeter to make a smart decision regarding whether it would meet your specific needs or not.

The INNOVA 3320 has several remarkable multimeter features that come along with it, but that doesn’t mean it has no drawbacks. That being said, this testing gadget multimeter is designed to provide 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 DC/AC voltage Multimeter is a wise buy for you.

2. Fluke 87-V- Best Electrical Digital Multimeter for the Money

After reviewing a couple of dozen multimeters on the market we decided that fluke 87-v is the best one. I believe that fluke 87-v HVAC pros enable is the best multimeter brand for the money buys for any electrician.

Fluke multimeter, being a leader in the electronic tool market, has developed high-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 fluke 87-v hvac pros Digital Multimeter is their latest release and comes with auto-ranging capabilities that allow it to be used in various situations; you can even measure up to 20A for 30 seconds at a time.

A majority of professionals opt for this Digital Multimeter over other cheaper digital multimeters for one major reason; reliability. If your job requires precise measurements and readings, you want to maintain consistency by having best 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 options with HVAC Pros for all this functionality for serious users with capacitance company.

When you purchase this electricians’ tool kit/multimeter, you will enjoy many benefits over other digital multimeters on the market, with one major benefit being able to take accurate readings on a consistent basis. It tests voltage, resistance, and current on AC and direct current circuits

This useful tool/multimeter also helps you to take frequency and AC current. Current DC, 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. The company provides alligator clips, a magnetic hanging kit, and a temperature probe.

While both digital and traditional multimeters will give similar readings, they are not useful if you cannot easily read the measurements on the large white led backlight digital display. Fluke 87-V compact true rms digital multimeter options offer a two-level backlight and large digital display. Give your eyes a break and order this heavy duty tool to make your job easier.

Conclusion

This is the best multimeter option for industrial maintenance that often deals with HVAC units. This is because it offers lower and wide range resolution and can also be used to measure electrical current, frequency, voltage, current, and capacitance. The built-in thermometer is quite reliable and precise. The backlit LED screen good working in poor lighting and easy reading. The meter operates on two AA batteries.

If you are looking for a combo kit that comes with all accessories, then Fluke 88 V/A Combo Kit will a great choice.

While we have included the fluke 88 V in this lineup, as people might be searching for it. The Fluke 88 V/A Combo Kit comes with the fluke 88 v automotive multimeter, silicone test leads, carry strap, alligator clips, test probes, a magnetic hanging kit, inductive RPM pick-up probe. This fluke 88 v combo kit is a premier choice for accuracy and versatility on a job site for all DIY enthusiasts.

One of the greatest things about fluke 88 v high-end digital multimeter besides its primary function is its versatile functions. With a remarkable dual resolution screen, you can detect even the slightest fluctuations in the ac voltage very easily. The Fluke 88 V is excellent for measuring signal pulse width and determining the health of an injector.

Fluke 117 auto-range function device is another budget fluke multimeter with the maximum multimeter features, try this combo kit automotive Multimeter. Many professional electricians love to work with this. That’s why picked Fuke 117 on our list.

3. Klein Tools MM600 Multimeter Best Voltage Meter

Klein Tools MM600 DC/AC voltage 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.

Klein Tools is the best multimeter on the market today is suitable for anyone who works with electronics or automobiles; do not let the low price tags fool you into thinking that it is a standard meter just like the rest in its price category.

Klein tools is durable, user-friendly, and boasts an array of multimeter features. Besides, it can detect nearly anything you will need such as circuit breakers, cords, cables, outlets, wires, switches, and lighting fixtures 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 thermocouple and you have a winner for almost any applications.

All high-quality products from Klein tools are American made as opposed to most of its competitors that are normally outsourced, and this tool kit is among those proudly stamped with the bold statement “Made in the USA.” The backlit LED screen good working in poor lighting. It also incorporates a durable rubber sleeve. It is used two AAA batteries instead of a 9 volt battery.

The voltage 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 multimeter for electrical engineers and MM600 is just a proof of that.

This digital multimeter loaded with advanced features is particularly useful for electricians who deal with HVAC/R equipment thanks to its wide range of multimeter features such as the ability to various thermocouple readings that makes it suitable for almost any field. This unit can test fuel injectors, computer driver circuits, and other functional components.

This is also available at hardware and home improvement stores.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a testing voltage digital 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 multimeter options for you.

4. Mastech MS8268 AC/DC Meter- Best Value Multimeter

The Mastech MS8268 combo kit may not rival most of the high-end digital multimeters in reputable brands such as Fluke, but it is a cool multimeter for its price. With reasonably accurate reading, high input impedance, and durable construction, the MS8268 offers pretty remarkable multimeter features. This voltage detector is used for testing voltage, resistance, diodes, capacitance, frequency, testing circuit board resisters, duty cycle, and temperature.

Let’s face it; we make a lot of hurried guesses when we are troubleshooting; we go from one voltage 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 plugs you should use depending on the function of your digital multimeter at the moment.

This tool features a large backlit LCD display for easy reading that comes in handy when making measurements in poorly lit environments. The backlight is evenly spread across the display for easy reading, 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 HVAC auto-ranging multimeter while in other times, a manual ranging meter is what you require. With MS8268, you can select a manual ranging mode and auto range function. HVAC pros need specialized digital multimeters on the marketlike the Mastech MS8268.

Its dial has a well-built surface and doesn’t feel fragile at all as some cheap meters do. This diagnostic tool runs on three AAA batteries and is located in a separate battery compartment. Therefore, you don’t have to disassemble the meter to change the battery or fuse. This meter conserves the battery life with an auto shut-off feature after 5-minutes.

Conclusion

If you are looking for a fantastic mini best multimeter options that has all the multimeter features to give you accurate readings in various troubleshooting DIY projects then this entry-level multimeter is right for you. It is durable and offers some incredible multimeter features such as audible alert and red blinking led terminals that notify you when the digital multimeter is connected properly. The multimeters come in handy for first-timers and novice users who may not be aware of setting up a digital multimeter or troubleshooting their electronics.

This is also available at hardware and home improvement stores.

5. INNOVA 3340 Multimeter Best Meter For Electricians

There might not be a perfect digital multimeter for automobiles work, but the INNOVA 3340 performs well compared to other types of multimeters on the market; in fact, we can term it as one of the best multimeters who like to tinker with electronic circuits in the building of things like pedometers, motors, and humidity sensors.

What makes this combo kit 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 multimeter options for serious users and professionals and it weighs only one pound.

The multimeters come with a trilingual instructional manual; English, French, and Spanish. It has a large backlit display and easy to read in any light condition. It measures electrical current, voltage, resistance, diode checker, 4000-count backlit display, and continuity

Users can operate this pocket multimeter in various ways. Besides being handheld, this automotive multimeter s come 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 hvac multimeter will not only be easy to work with, but will make it easier for you to detect where the engine problem is originating from.

Conclusion

The INNOVA 3340 automotive multimeter is one of the best multimeter for home use compared to the main rival Astroai TRMS multimeter or other types of multimeters on the market today. But Astroai trms is another outstanding diagnostic tool at this range.

Astroai trms 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 electrical testing tool kit.

If you are looking for high precision and accuracy, this electrical testing tool kit 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 correct range. It’s one of the few digital multimeters that can do this. This is also available at hardware and home improvement stores in rhe market today.

6. Fluke 323 AC/DC Clamp Meter- Best Hobby Multimeter

Don’t just have the right household measurement tools. Have all the right tools, all the time. The only thing that beats having a handy diagnostic 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. It has everything that testing voltage, current, and resistance.

That’s what the Fluke 323 Clamp True RMS Multimeter does for you. It’s a versatile combo kit multimeter with a quick and efficient general-purpose clamp digital multimeter. 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 multimeter comes with a large backlit LCD screen display backlight for work in low light conditions. The light is pure white, guaranteeing adequate lighting during operations. Fluke 323 measures ac and dc current up till 10 amperes and overload up till 20 amperes.

Conclusion

When searching out digital 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 digital multimeter will shape your requirements in a friendly and dependable way hence considered the best multimeter for capacitor testing and 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 options for money.

7. Extech EX330 auto ranging mini multimeter- Best Mid Range 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 digital multimeter, Extech ex330 autoranging mini multimeter 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 auto ranging pocket multimeter has a whopping 12 functions, including AC/DC Voltage, current resistance, capacitance, pulse ratio, and frequency.

Extech ex330 autoranging mini multimeter is a certified category III(cat iii) safety rating makes it suitable for commercial use. It operates on two AA batteries.

The digital display is sufficiently large and the figures legible that anyone can easy to read them, even in low light. The large LCD screen renews three times per second. 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.

Conclusion

Buying this Extech ex330 autoranging mini multimeter is not a mistake but a guarantee that it’s a quality multimeter. 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 auto ranging mini multimeter. Options that include the low battery signal or the potential to read the temperatures of different objects within a short time makes this automotive multimeter a device worth sorting out.

8. Fieldpiece SC260-Best True RMS Multimeter

When cutting edge technology meets affordability. The SC260 combo kit 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 reading when testing variable frequencies. It also measures temperature in both Celsius units and Fahrenheit units. It has a large LCD display with strong backlight power for easy reading.

For various reasons, many electrical assessments 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 readings from your electronic devices isn’t easy. This is why the SC260 combo kit features a nifty backlight display for easy reading.  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 digital multimeter 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 diy enthusiasts. This combo kit multimeter models include voltage detector, current, AC/DC capacitance, resistance, 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.

Conclusion

This is an ideal multimeter for giving out measure celsius or fahrenheit. Therefore, you can troubleshoot efficiently, fix, hold and improve the accuracy of your system. For this reason, this is the best multimeter with oscilloscope. 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.

9. Crenova Auto Ranging 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 ms8233d auto-ranging multimeter 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 digital multimeters. Perhaps the best of these is the Crenova ms8233d Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter. This volt ohm meter is the pinnacle of quality and affordability.

The MS8233D auto-ranging digital multimeter has an illuminated display for taking easy readings and ensures crystal-clear test results in low light areas. It also has an auto 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 digits large LCD display makes everything clear for the user, making the taking of readings very easy. This professional electricians tool kit/multimeter features over 12 different functions and also has built for a high voltage range and overload protection. This digital multimeter is efficient then one could expect.

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 for easy reading 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 HVAC 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 options, this professional electricians tool kit/multimeter needs to be stored in thoughts, which in spite of having cons of its stands out in all senses.

10. Amprobe AM-510 Diagnostic Tool-Best Multimeter For Home Use

Utility for light commercial and residential applications like you’ve never seen before. The Amprobe AM-510 combo kit auto-range function 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 ease of 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 voltage, resistance, and dc current, and it comes with a generous 600 volts rating.

This best home multimeter options 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 large backlit lcd display, and auto power-off.

It also capable of testing both types of electrical current, alternating current (AC)—the electricity that flows through the outlets in your home—and direct current (DC), the electricity found in batteries.

Please read our other comprehensive reviews 10 best multimeters for automotive use

Conclusion 

If you’ll as a substitute settles for an excessive exceptional inexpensive 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.

The main rival at this price range is the Fluke 115 multimeter.  Fluke 115 is a compact True-RMS Digital Multimeter. Finally, fluke 115 is available at maximum hardware and home improvement stores.

Best Professional 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 high end multimeter.

Multimeters are available in most hardware and home improvement stores. Before buying, please check out our full range of product reviews and multimeter basics terms.

How Well Do Multimeters Work?

A standard digital multimeter or diagnostic tool should give valid information about the condition of power sources in your home. Because multimeters program designed to provide 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. Multimeter is a heavy-duty tool that boasts of measurements voltage in either direct current (DC) or alternating current (AC).

Different multimeters can tolerate different power strengths. For instance, an HVAC multimeter can withstand more electrical exposure than a basic unit. HVAC pros will benefit from some of the advanced multimeter options found on professional multimeter models. If you are not sure of how much electrical current 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 on the market

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 thermocouple probe. HVAC multimeter diagnostic tool 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 Digital 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 automotive multimeter eliminates this hassle and searches for the accurate range on its own. It is handy, but this should not be your main priority.

In addition to testing voltage, resistance, and current, advanced digital multimeters often come with the ability to test most functions.

Fluke Multimeters

These are digital units that are built to withstand rough treatment. They are designed to provide 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 diagnostic 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

There are two types of multimeters, digital and analog multimeter. Analog multimeters are based on much older electrical technology. Analog multimeter, a continuous deflection of a pointer represents the value of power quantity being measured.

• Analog device is like an analog clock
• Analog multimeters incorporate a microammeter.
• Analog multimeter measures the duty cycle, current, voltage, and resistance.
• They are available to measure transistors and capacitors. The actual resistance of these multimeters depends on the sensitivity and range chosen
• Analog meters have the ability to handle instantaneous changes
• Analog meters is that they are usually limited to reading amps, volts, and ohms
• Analog meters has a very low input
• Analog meters doesn’t break down as often
• The analog multimeters provide zero adjustments.
• Analog multimeter provides a continuous deflection of pointer

Digital Multimeter

Most multimeters on the market today are digital. 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. Some include an auto shut-off feature.

The Digital multimeter has four components — display, buttons for selecting various functions, dial (or rotary switch) for determining the measurement values (amps, ohms, volts), and input jack for the test leads. Digital multimeters are more accurate than analog multimeters. Analog multimeter having lower input impedance than a digital multimeter.

Note; for ease of reading, digital multimeters are the best and are more accurate. Besides, if you abuse or use an analog device 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.

Digital multimeter can be broadly divided into four main categories:

• Category I
• Category II
• Category III
• Category IV

Factors to Consider When Buying A Multimeter

There are mainly two types of multimeter available in the market today, make sure the multimeter you buy is capable of testing ac current, voltages, capacitances, resistances, and many other parameters. Make sure the device has all of the mentioned features.

Digital 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 multimeters for your needs.

Here are six factors you need to make sure the following characteristics before buying a multimeter;

Specifications

The performance of a multimeter is decided by its specification. By specification we mean, understanding the abilities of different types of multimeters regarding its AC/DC voltage, current, and resistance.

Choose a multimeter with CAT safety 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 quality multimeters, make sure the multimeter must have True RMS value, low input impedance as this may account for DC components.

Internal blast shields, shrouded banana plugs, wide flanges, isolation slots, large backlit, auto shut-off feature, cat ii -iii, and input protection is also important things and you should make sure the multimeter you buy is capable of all testing parameters.

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. Make sure the multimeter you buy is capable of testing both types of electrical current, alternating current (AC) testing.

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

A digital meter is a heavy-duty tool that boasts precise measurements and really easy reading in it as it has a data hold function, by choosing a multimeter that has a wide range of input impedance. This is critical if you measure sensitive electronics. The low impedance mode prevents ghost voltages.

We prefer LCD screens to be backlit display that easier to use in low light situations.

Temperature Measurement

If you require recurrent thermocouple monitoring needs, go for a digital multimeter that has a dual differential temperature function. This feature allows one to take two temperatures readings simultaneously.

If you keep the above seven factors in mind, it will be easier for you to pick the right 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 that you can use to deduce measurements. Its buttons or dial space determine the energy you are measuring the correct 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 the analog multimeters that call 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.

We prefer our LCD screen to be backlit lcd, making them easier to use in low light situations.

They give you Accurate results when testing the likes of fuel injectors and hybrid engines

Typically, a digital multimeter provides more accurate measurements than the analog multimeters as it can provide easy 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 test probes in the opposite polarity, they will return a negative output. This is another area where digital units become advantageous than analog multimeters ones as placing probes in opposing polarity can cause the latter type to break.

Those are just but a few benefits of digital voltmeters.

We reviewed the How to use a multimeter – Click here

FAQ