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10 Best Multimeters of 2024

Updated
No power to your electrical circuit? Check it with a multimeter

Whether you are a DIY enthusiast or a professional, a multimeter is invaluable. It’s the best way to measure voltage, current, and resistance when diagnosing electrical issues.

We scrutinized the widest choice of multimeters, rating them on their performance, cost, specific uses, and capabilities to bring you our favorite 10 models.

Our Top Picks

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Image
Model
Product Comparison Table
Features

Product Image of the Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter
Best Premium Multimeter
Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter
  • True RMS for accuracy when measuring AC
  • CAT IV and CAT III Tested
  • Temperature range of -40 to +400 c
Product Image of the Fieldpiece HS33 Expandable Manual Range Stick Multimeter
Best for HVAC
Fieldpiece HS33 Expandable Manual Range Stick Multimeter
  • Designed for HVAC systems
  • Expandable range testing stick
  • Measures VAC, VDC, AAC, ADC, and capacitance
Product Image of the Fluke 117/323 Electricians Multimeter Kit and Clamp Meter
Best for Electronics
Fluke 117/323 Electricians Multimeter Kit and Clamp Meter
  • Complete kit for every electrical need
  • True RMS for better accuracy
  • CAT III 600V safety rated
Product Image of the KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter
Best Auto-Ranging
KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter
  • Incredible price with so many functions
  • True RMS for better accuracy
  • CAT III 1,000V and CAT IV 600V safety rated
Product Image of the Etekcity Digital Multimeter
Best Budget Pick
Etekcity Digital Multimeter
  • Test AC and DC voltage, as well as DC
  • Unbelievable price makes it ideal for beginners
  • Large backlit display
Product Image of the AstroAI 33D Digital Multimeter
Best for Homeowners
AstroAI 33D Digital Multimeter
  • Test AC and DC voltage, as well as DC
  • Unbelievable price
  • Large backlit display
Product Image of the AstroAI Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000
Best Digital
AstroAI Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000
  • Test AC and DC voltage, as well as DC
  • Great all-around multimeter
  • Large backlit display
Product Image of the KZYEE KM10 Power Circuit Probe Kit
Best for Automotive
KZYEE KM10 Power Circuit Probe Kit
  • Tests all 12V and 24V systems
  • Has an extension lead that reaches around your vehicle
  • Has a diagnostic and multimeter setting
Product Image of the INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Multimeter
Best for Beginners
INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Multimeter
  • Auto-ranging for the simplest operation
  • Ideal for beginners to learn with
  • Color-coded and an easy-to-read display
Product Image of the Gardner Bender GMT-312 Analog Multimeter
Best Analog Multimeter
Gardner Bender GMT-312 Analog Multimeter
  • Manual dial is clear and easy to read
  • Robust analog design
  • Accurate to within plus or minus 5 percent

Review Methodology: At Sensible Digs, we believe in providing you with in-depth analysis and assessment of the best multimeters. Our experienced professionals rigorously test each product, benchmarking and comparing them based on key decision-making factors such as performance, design, and ease of use. We use hands-on evaluations and quantitative measurements to rank these multimeters. Our reviews are supported by facts and first-hand evidence, detailing what sets each product apart. Our goal is to guide you through your purchasing process with reliable data and our practical experience, ensuring you make a sensible choice.



The Best Multimeters of 2024

Trying to find the 10 best multimeters is a challenge, especially as there are so many to choose from. We rated our top choices based on customer feedback, performance, and specific uses.

Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter

Best Premium Multimeter

If it’s a premium multimeter, it had better be good. After all, what are you paying the price for? This Fluke 179 ESFP is one of the best multimeters money can buy and a must for professionals.

It has 1,000V AC/DC, 10A AC/DC, and it comes with the test leads and jacks. It has a resistance of 50MΩ and a temperature range of -40 to +400 degrees Celsius.

This model has manual and automatic ranging, so you can switch between the two, display hold, auto hold, and a minimum and maximum average recording. There is a backlit display with an analog bar graph and built-in temperature with an included thermocouple.

This multimeter has been tested for safe use in CAT IV 600 and V/CAT III in 1,000V environments. This is a True RMS model, which is more accurate than the RMs versions when measuring AC.

It is an excellent device, but you have to question if it is worth the price tag, given it costs several times more than comparable models.

Pros

  • True RMS for accuracy when measuring AC.
  • CAT IV and CAT III Tested.
  • Temperature range of -40 to +400 C.
  • Minimum and maximum voltage recording.

Cons

  • It costs several times the amount of comparable models.

Product Specs

Weight 2.20 pounds
Tested CAT IV and CAT III
True RMS Yes
Resistance 50MΩ
Price $$$$$
Warranty Lifetime

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Features
5 / 5
Durability
5 / 5
Total Rating
4.75 / 5

User Experience

My experience with the Fluke 179 meter has been largely positive. This meter's accuracy and durability make it a reliable tool for many tasks, including frequency measurements and temperature calibrations. One of its unique features is its ability to act as an antenna, picking up on the EMI field of a laptop's CCFL backlight inverter, a feature I use frequently. However, this product is not without its flaws. The probes that come with this meter are disappointingly stiff and low quality, and the continuity beeper is somewhat hard to hear in even quiet settings.

Fieldpiece HS33 Expandable Manual Range Stick Multimeter

Best HVAC Multimeter

The HS33 is specifically designed to measure HVAC parameters, including temperature with quick compensation via a K-type plug, a diode test, and a built-in non-contact voltage tester. The ergonomic shape fits the contours of your hand to make it as comfortable as possible to hold.

You also get a magnetic hanger and an alligator clip for hands-free testing. It has ranges that include VAC, VDC, AAC, ADC, and temperature, plus capacitance.

You also get high voltage and continuity indicators and an expandable range testing stick favored by students of stick meter schools. The only minor point is this is a manual HVAC multimeter, and the screen is not backlit.

Also, the HS33 is not a True RMS model, so it might be less accurate than other True RMS versions.

Pros

  • Specifically designed to measure HVAC systems.
  • Expandable range testing stick for pinpoint accuracy.
  • Measures VAC, VDC, AAC, ADC, and capacitance.
  • Ergonomic design for comfort and grip.

Cons

  • Non-backlit screen makes it harder to read.
  • Not a True RMS model.
  • Manual ranging reduces some accuracy.

Product Specs

Weight 1.5 pounds
Tested CAT II and CAT IV
True RMS No
Resistance 200MΩ
Price $$$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

Personal Perspective

Best product for my HVAC and refrigerator repair needs, this meter has served me well. Despite the slight learning curve with the settings and the need to unplug the leads to use the amp clamp, the quality and versatility of this meter are undeniable. However, a stronger magnet and a backlight would be beneficial for those darker workspaces.

Fluke 117/323 Electricians Multimeter Kit and Clamp Meter

Best Multimeter for Electronics

If you are an electrician, this multimeter kit will prove invaluable. It measures AC and DC voltage as well as AC and DC amps, plus the 323 clamp meter measures AC and DC voltage as well as AC amps.

This is a True RMS device, giving you accurate measurements on non-linear loads. It has a low input impedance to avoid ghost voltage, which occurs when non-energized and energized circuits are in close proximity.

You also get minimum and maximum averages with elapsed time to record signal fluctuations, and this model is CAT III 600 V safety rated.

It also has VoltAlert technology for non-contact voltage detection and automatic AC and DC voltage selection. While this is a complete kit, it costs almost as much as the premium model, so you would only buy this if you had a specific electrical need.

Pros

  • Comes as a complete kit for every electrical need.
  • True RMS for better accuracy.
  • CAT III 600V safety rated.
  • Automatic ranging between AC and DC.

Cons

  • Costs almost as much as the premium model.
  • Suitable for professionals only.

Product Specs

Weight 1.76 pounds
Tested CAT III
True RMS Yes
Resistance 4kΩ
Price $$$$
Warranty 90 days

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Community Feedback

I, a seasoned electrician, am genuinely impressed by this meter set from Fluke. This piece of equipment is far superior in accuracy to the Klein Clamp 900 I was previously using. Interestingly, I gifted one to my nephew, who is also in the trade, and he mirrors my sentiments. The quality of these meters is unmatched, and I regret not integrating it into my toolkit years ago. However, I must note that the lead tips can be somewhat confusing, and I accidentally broke them in an attempt to remove them. Despite this minor drawback, the meter set operates excellently and is a strong addition to any electrician's arsenal.

KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter

Best Auto-Ranging Multimeter

Apart from the attractive price tag, this KAIWEETS has 6,000 counts auto-ranging for accurate measurements of AC and DC voltage and AC and DC. It also measures resistance, capacitance, continuity, frequency, and diode.

While auto-ranging is not unique to this multimeter, it is a feature of this model, even with the low price.

With such a varied array of capabilities, you can use it in the auto industry and commercial and household settings. It has a backlit dual display with a bar graph, LED lighting jacks that help you place the probes correctly, and a flip-out table stand for hands-free operation.

It is CAT III rated at 1,000V, and CAT IV rated at 600V, and it measures resistance between 30Ω and 60Ω. This compact and affordable multimeter is also True RMS, making it super-accurate.

According to some customers, the backlit display stays on for a short time then goes off, and the meter uses a lot of battery power, meaning you will have to change them regularly.

Pros

  • Incredible price with so many functions.
  • True RMS for better accuracy.
  • CAT III 1,000V and CAT IV 600V safety rated.
  • Automatic 6,000 count ranging between AC and DC.

Cons

  • The backlit screen turns off too frequently.
  • Batteries don’t last very long.

Product Specs

Weight 1.36 pounds
Tested CAT III and CAT IV
True RMS Yes
Resistance 30Ω to 60Ω
Price $$
Warranty 3-year

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4.5 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4.25 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I recently got my hands on this digital multimeter and it has been an interesting experience. I appreciate the precision it offers, as accuracy is important to me, even though I'm not an electrician. Among the various multimeters I've toyed with, the Kaiweets HT208D was the simplest to use, while the Mestek DM100C posed a bit more of a challenge. When it comes to screen readability, the Kaiweets HT118A takes the win, offering a clear view in both dim and bright light settings. One downside I noticed, however, is its appetite for batteries, so keep some extras on hand.

Etekcity Digital Multimeter

Best Budget Multimeter

If you are on the hunt for a digital multimeter for general testing around the home, this Etekcity model fits the bill. It is so cheap, you could buy 30 of these and still have change compared to the cost of the Fluke 179.

It has a manual range switch, enabling you to swap between AC and DC voltage, although it is limited to DC only. It also detects continuity, diode, and resistance.

It has a large, backlit display with clear digits, a stand for hands-free operation and an anti-burn and overload protection, and an alarm that beeps when testing for resistance.

It packs a lot in for a budget model, but you do have to compensate for its shortcomings when comparing it to other multimeters. It isn’t True RMS, it doesn’t test for frequency or temperature, and the CAT rating is sketchy as the company doesn’t tell you.

Pros

  • Test AC and DC voltage, as well as DC.
  • Unbelievable price makes this the ideal beginner device.
  • Large backlit display is easy to read.
  • Alarm alerts you when testing for resistance.

Cons

  • Manual ranging switch.
  • Not a True RMS model, which is less accurate.
  • Lacks clarity on CAT rating.

Product Specs

Weight 8 ounces
Tested Not stated
True RMS No
Resistance 2kΩ to 200Ω
Price $
Warranty 2-year

Our Ratings

Accuracy
3.5 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Features
3.5 / 5
Durability
3.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

User Experience

As a seasoned electronics calibrator, I tested this multimeter extensively, finding it fairly accurate for DC voltage, DC amps, and resistance measurements, but less so for lower AC voltages. The backlit LCD screen, variety of ranges for each setting, and convenient hold button are commendable; however, the flimsy kickstand, high resistance leads, and lack of an auto shut-off feature detract from its overall usability. Despite a few shortcomings, this multimeter is a solid, budget-friendly choice for hobby electronics and DIY repairs, offering decent accuracy and practicality.

AstroAI 33D Digital Multimeter

Best Multimeter for Homeowners

When you need an accurate multimeter to test appliances and basic wiring inside your home, this AstroAI covers all your bases. It has a manual range finder to swap between AC and DC voltage and DC, although it won’t measure AC, which is a limitation.

That said, it is suitable for checking batteries and electronics on vehicles, so when you are done testing the home, you can start on the car.

This is only a 2,000 counts meter, so it is a lot less versatile than the 6,000 counts models; however, it does have a large backlit display with clear digits. It has a resistance range of 20kΩ to 200MΩ and only costs a fraction more than the budget model.

This device is not a True RMS, but it is still accurate enough to test basic electrical circuits within the home. However, there is also a lack of information about the CAT rating.

Pros

  • Test AC and DC voltage, as well as DC.
  • Unbelievable price makes this the ideal beginner device.
  • Large backlit display is easy to read.
  • Suitable for inside the home and garage.

Cons

  • Manual ranging switch.
  • Not a True RMS model, which is less accurate.
  • Doesn’t test AC.
  • No CAT testing information.

Product Specs

Weight 6.3 ounces
Tested Not stated
True RMS No
Resistance 20Ω to 200Ω
Price $
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4 / 5
Features
3 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
3.75 / 5

Personal Perspective

I've found this AstroAI multimeter handy for tasks around the house and even in the garage for checking my car's electronics. It's especially easy to read thanks to the large backlit display, and the price makes it a great value for casual users like myself. I appreciate that it tests both AC and DC voltage, but I wish it could also measure AC. One downside is that it's not a True RMS model, which means it might not be as accurate as some other models.

AstroAI Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000

Best Digital Multimeter

This AstroAI TRMS 6000 is a step up from the previous model to feature. It has a 6,000 count range, so it can handle larger and more powerful circuits. Unlike the 33D, this multimeter can measure AC and DC as well as AC and DC voltage.

This model is packed with features like data hold, auto shut-off, and professional level auto-ranging. Plus, it is a True RMS device, so it gives accurate readings for AC and voltage. It also records temperatures.

It’s also CAT II rated at 1,000V and CAt III at 600V, plus it has a temperature range of -40 to +1370C.

This model has wide applications, ranging from automotive, electrical, commercial, and inside the home. You get a kickstand and a magnetic mount for hands-free readings, and for the price, it is the best all-around device for multiple uses.

On the downside, some customers report that it beeps all the time, for almost every function and reading, which gets annoying.

Pros

  • Test AC and DC voltage, as well as AC and DC.
  • Great all-around multimeter for home, garage, and work.
  • Large backlit display is easy to read.
  • Auto-ranging up to 6,000 counts.

Cons

  • Constantly beeps, even when changing the functions.

Product Specs

Weight 1.26 pounds
Tested CAT III and CAT II
True RMS Yes
Resistance 6k to 600Ω
Price $$$
Warranty 3-year limited

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4.5 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Features
4.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
4.5 / 5

Community Feedback

I found this meter to be incredibly useful for diagnosing a power drain issue in my Jeep. It's sturdy and doesn't feel cheap, but the magnet strap seemed a tad inconvenient to me due to its tendency to slide around, so I opted to remove it. The screen is large and easy to read, though the backlight only stays on for ten seconds, which might be a pain for those working in dimly lit areas.

KZYEE KM10 Power Circuit Probe Kit

Best Automotive Multimeter

If you need an automotive tester, this is the best choice. It tests for diagnostics and continuity, reading circuit failures and good and bad ground, activating components on and off the vehicle. You can diagnose AC and DC voltage, resistance, and diode of the 12V and 24V electrical system.

It can even power up electrical elements of the vehicle, including cooling fans, starters, and relays, as well as window washers. The unit is powered by the 12V car socket, making it the ideal tool to keep in the trunk in case of emergencies.

You even get a 20-foot cable so you can reach around the entire exterior of your vehicle. And if you have a truck or RV, you can buy an extension cable to double the reach to 40 feet.

You get a DC voltage range from 0 to 65V +1 digit and a resistance range of 0 to 100Ω. This multimeter is only intended for vehicles, so it lacks certain functions found on typical models, but you can still test all 12 and 24V systems. The other negative is you get no indication of CAT safety testing.

Pros

  • Tests all 12V and 24V systems.
  • Has an extension lead that reaches around your vehicle.
  • Has a diagnostic and multimeter setting.
  • Operates from a 12V socket in your car.

Cons

  • Caters to automobiles rather than general use.
  • No CAT testing information.

Product Specs

Weight 2.6 pounds
Tested Not stated
True RMS No
Resistance 0 to 100Ω
Price $$$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Features
3.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

First-Hand Impression

I'm thoroughly impressed by how easy this tool is to use, it's practically intuitive. The extension cord has proven invaluable during car repairs, I honestly wouldn't be able to perform certain tasks without it. However, I've noticed the voltage readings can be off by a couple volts, which is a significant issue on a 12 volt system.

INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Multimeter

Best Multimeter for Beginners

When you are a beginner, getting all the help you can is crucial to understanding how your multimeter works, which is why the auto-ranging function on this model is a real lifesaver. It detects the correct setting and gives you an accurate reading without manual selection.

It has reverse polarity protection, protective rubber guards, and auto shut-off. It has a single setting for AC and DC resistance and a continuity check with audible beeping.

You get a support stand, a color-coded and easy-to-read LCD, and a UL certification, which means it’s safe to test automotive and household electrical problems.

On the downside, it can only measure up to 600V, which limits you to small circuits. It also lacks features, which could be a bonus if you are learning how to use a multimeter.

Pros

  • Auto-ranging for the simplest operation.
  • Ideal for beginners to learn with.
  • Color-coded and an easy-to-read display.
  • Works with Automotive and Household electrical systems.

Cons

  • Limited to 600V small circuits.
  • It lacks features like frequency and temperature.

Product Specs

Weight 8 ounces
Tested UL certified
True RMS No
Resistance 10Ω
Price $$
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Accuracy
4 / 5
Design
4.5 / 5
Features
3.5 / 5
Durability
4 / 5
Total Rating
4 / 5

User Experience

This meter is genuinely excellent in its performance. I've used it alongside my Fluke DMM 179 and was pleasantly surprised to find that the readings were nearly identical. The auto-ranging feature is a real timesaver, responding as swiftly as my more expensive Fluke. The additional battery test function, which places the battery under a current load before measuring the voltage, is a unique feature that adds significant value to this meter.

Gardner Bender GMT-312 Analog Multimeter

Best Analog Multimeter

Now it’s time to go old school with this analog multimeter. It has an AC and DC voltage range of 300V, so it’s not the most powerful model to feature, and it has an accuracy level of plus or minus 5 percent.

Because it is analog, it is durable and hard to break; plus, it’s easy to read. The only thing to watch for is damage to the needle and dial, which could give inaccurate readings.

The DC maximum is 150mA, and it doesn’t test for AC. It has 12 range settings, operated by manually twisting the selection knob to the desired setting. It lacks the sophistication and convenience of digital models and probably isn’t the best device for beginners to learn how they work.

Pros

  • Manual dial is clear and easy to read.
  • Robust analog design stands up to the rigors.
  • Accurate to within plus or minus 5 percent.
  • 12 range settings with a manual switch.

Cons

  • Limited to 300V small circuits.
  • It lacks features like frequency and temperature.
  • Not ideal for beginners.

Product Specs

Weight 8 ounces
Tested Not stated
True RMS No
Resistance 1MΩ
Price $
Warranty 1-year

Our Ratings

Accuracy
3.5 / 5
Design
3.5 / 5
Features
2.5 / 5
Durability
4.5 / 5
Total Rating
3.5 / 5

Personal Perspective

I've found that this multimeter is an effective, user-friendly tool, despite some minor flaws. The compact size and rugged design make it resilient and easy to carry, and the analog display provides quick, responsive readings. However, I was slightly disappointed in the limited range and questionable accuracy of this multimeter, particularly when it comes to measuring resistances of less than 1K. Also, a design error regarding the scale selector switch was a bit confusing, but it's still a handy tool for casual electrical troubleshooting at home or on the road.

Product Comparison Chart

Product Best Weight Tested True RMS Resistance Price Warranty
Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter Best Premium 2.20 lbs CAT IV & CAT III Yes 50MΩ $$$$$ Lifetime
Fieldpiece HS33 Expandable Manual Range Stick Multimeter Best HVAC 1.5 lbs CAT II & CAT IV No 200MΩ $$$ 1-year
Fluke 117/323 Electricians Multimeter Kit and Clamp Meter Best for Electronics 1.76 lbs CAT III Yes 4kΩ $$$$ 90 days
KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter Best Auto-Ranging 1.36 lbs CAT III & CAT IV Yes 30Ω – 60Ω $$ 3-year
Etekcity Digital Multimeter Best Budget 8 ounces Not stated No 2kΩ – 200Ω $ 2-year
AstroAI 33D Digital Multimeter Best for Homeowners 6.3 ounces Not stated No 20Ω – 200Ω $ 1-year
AstroAI Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000 Best Digital 1.26 lbs CAT III & CAT II Yes 6k – 600Ω $$$ 3-year limited
KZYEE KM10 Power Circuit Probe Kit Best Automotive 2.6 lbs Not stated No 0 – 100Ω $$$ 1-year
INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Multimeter Best for Beginners 8 ounces UL certified No 10Ω $$ 1-year
Gardner Bender GMT-312 Analog Multimeter Best Analog 8 ounces Not stated No 1MΩ $ 1-year

How Does a Multimeter Work?

A standard multimeter works by giving basic information about the power sources within your building. They measure current, resistance, and voltage, although more expensive models can measure capacitance and inductance.

Essentially, it diagnoses issues with the power supply to various electrical elements in the home. If you have a faulty switch, a multimeter can tell you where the problem is. It can even tell you whether a car battery is receiving a charge from an alternator.

Basic Functions

Voltmeter – Voltage

A multimeter measures the voltage, which is the pressure from an electrical circuit’s power source that pushes a current through a conducting loop. In short, voltage equals pressure.

Ohmmeter – Resistance

This is the measure of the opposition of the current flow in an electrical circuit. Resistance is measured in ohms, after the Greek letter for Omega.

Ammeter – Current

The current is the movement of charged electrons flowing between two points. Direct currents (DC) flow in a single direction, and alternating currents (AC) periodically change direction but can be controlled using a transformer.

Advanced Functions

Capacitance

Capacitance is the ability of a circuit or component to collect and store energy in the form of an electrical charge. Capacitors are not the same as batteries because the charge is stored as electricity, unlike a battery that holds it in chemical form. Most multimeters measure this accurately.

Frequency

Electrical frequency is the measure of the rate of oscillation and is rated in Hertz (Hz).

Temperature

This checks the operating temperature of the electrical wire. Some multimeters have this as an advanced feature, although it is less common in the home/hobbyist models.

Pressure

Electrical pressure is also known as voltage, and multimeters measure the pressure to see how much power reaches the component.

Inductance

Inductance is the ratio of voltage to the rate of current change. The multimeter measures the geometry of the current path as well as the permeability of nearby materials. Many factors influence inductance, such as separations of the turns and the shape of the coil.

Conductance

Conductance is the frequency at which a current or heat passes through an object. It is the opposite of resistance.

Types of Multimeters

Essentially there are analog and digital multimeters. One uses a needle on a dial to give the reading, while the other has a digital display and shows the values in numbers.

Analog

Analog multimeters are older technology. The first multimeters were analog. The needle moves along a dial showing the power values for each specific element.

Analog multimeters incorporate a microammeter, measure the duty cycle as well as the current, resistance, and voltage. Some analog meters measure transistors and capacitors, although the resistance of these meters depends on the sensitivity and the range chosen.

One advantage of an analog meter is it can handle sudden changes, but they are typically limited to reading amps, volts, and ohms.

Analog meters rarely fail and have very low input, but they are also limited because you have zero scope to adjust them.

Digital

Digital multimeters are the most common by far. Almost every model sold is a digital variety. The display shows numbers and values in an LCD format.

Digital multimeters have 4 elements:

  • The display.
  • Buttons to select different functions.
  • A rotary switch for different measurements.
  • An input jack for the test leads.

Digital meters are easier to read and much more accurate. If you use a multimeter all the time, a digital version is better because it is less susceptible to moisture damage.

Digital multimeters are categorized in 4 ways:

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

How To Choose the Best Multimeter

There are so many factors to consider when shopping for a multimeter. We narrow down the most important features to look for so you can make the best choice.

Specifications

You can substitute the word specification for capabilities. Make sure you choose a multimeter with a CAT safety rating and can accommodate more current than your power source can withstand.

Another feature to look for is True RMS, which stands for Root Means Square and is far more accurate than an RMS device when measuring AC.

You should also consider internal blast shields, shrouded banana plugs, auto shut-off, and a large backlit screen.

Accuracy

Accuracy is the key to any measurement, and your multimeter is no different. Check it reads both AC and DC. You should get the model with the narrowest permissible error limits.

Resolution

The resolution offers a meaningful reading and the best resolution of the measurement. It is the smallest increment a device can detect and display. You can find the resolution listed in the device’s specifications, but almost always as the maximum resolution.

This is the smallest range that the meter can read on the lowest range setting. You can improve the resolution by reducing the range setting, providing the measurement is within the set range.

Input Impedance

Input impedance is critical if you want to avoid inaccurate readings. Multimeters are robust tools and should provide precise measurements that are easy to read. A low impedance mode prevents “Ghost voltages.”

Temperature Measurement

Look for a multimeter that has a dual differential temperature measurement function. This is a perfect choice if you have a thermocouple replacement or monitoring need, especially when fixing water heater problems and repairing HVAC systems.

The dual differential allows you to measure two different readings simultaneously.

Energy Capacity

To avoid damage, it’s a great idea to know what the energy tolerances are for your multimeter and the circuits you are preparing to work on.

Frequency Measurement

Some multimeters measure the current and voltage within a frequency range.


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About the Author

Mark Weir

Mark spent 24 years working in real estate, so he knows his way around a home. He also worked with contractors and experts, advising them on issues of planning, investments, and renovations. Mark is no stranger to hands-on experience, having renovated his own home and many properties for resale. He likes nothing better than seeing a project through to completion.