Best Budget Multimeters – Reviews and Buyer’s Guide

In this article, you’ll find reviews of the 8 best budget multimeters and a detailed buyer’s guide.

---

Before buying any product, the first wish we make is to get it at the lowest possible price. Of course, nobody would like their budget for essentials to be comprised of these extra expenses.

Just like that, multimeters don’t come in the category of essentials but are a necessary and must-have gadget for every home. So, either now or in the future, you’ll have to spend some bucks buying it.

Our first task should be to find the best cheap multimeterfeel likedoesn’tfulfills that fulfils our requirements. Additionally, it doesn’t feel a burden on our monthly budget.

Worry not; we’re here to help you make the purchase process simpler. We’ve enlisted eight budget multimeters, each suitable for different applications. So, you can choose the one that best matches your requirements and budget.

buyer’sA detailed buyer’s guide after the product review section will further solve your ambiguities about what to look for in the cheapest multimeter to best perform the required job.

So, without further ado, let’s move forward!

---

1. Autel AutoLink AL539 Multimeter

---

---

Measurements:

Auto Link AL539 OBD2 Scanner is another cheap automotive multimeter that or testing tool that should be part of every automotechnician’s tool kit. But, keep in mind, its AVO meter can only test current, voltage, and continuity. It is incapable of checking temperature, resistance, frequency, and capacitance measurements.

While checking the status of the car’s charging system, one has to just connect the testing probes. The scanner shows the output as normal, high, low, or excessive ripple behavior. Moreover, by analyzing the cranking status, one can verify whether the starter voltage is at its normal level or not.

Design:

Just like most of the units in the list, where the Auto Link AL539 OBD2 Scanner has a built-in kickstand for upright position testing, it fails to integrate both a magnetic hanger and a strap, thus limiting its use.

You’ll also admire the customized carrying case that holds the multimeter. It allows the user to comfortably move a single unit around the workshop.

Despite being a low-priced multimeter, its sharp display and bright backlight keep the screen glowing all the time. So, regardless of how much illumination the surrounding area has, readings will be easily viewable. But always put a flashlight inside your car seat for emergency testing at night.

Functions:

Being an all-around scanner, the Auto Link AL539 OBD2 Scanner is capable of performing all basic to advanced testing. Whether it’s a matter of transferring measured data, erasing and reading codes, data freezing capability, or an onboard monitoring test, Additionally, with its data printing flexibility, it won’t disappoint.

The best automotive testing tool has the ability to read and erase codes, live data transfer, freeze the value, O2, and on-board monitoring tests, live data graphing, data stream playback, and data printing flexibility via PC.

If you are new to engine testing, we’ve briefly explained a few of its features below:

• Live PCM data streams quickly identify discontinuous behavior of the being measured variable to filter out which part is wrong. Moreover, for checking the emission status of a vehicle, the OBD II scanner quickly generates results that confirm whether your car passes the smog test or requires maintenance.
• performance,it’llFor maintaining the best fuel economy, low-lemissionsssion, and stable power, you should frequently check the O2 sensor’s performance as it’ll give you an early heads-up in case of any serious issue.
• Whether it’s the graphical data display, digital measurements, or any other diagnostic results, one can freeze the display instantly to analyze the recorded data calmly while going back in the office. Moreover, you can share this data with fellow technicians to devise better solutions.

Safety:

Its ability to absorb shock and blows is much higher than that of traditional multimeters. Thus, it can effectively withstand the workshop environment. Handling this rugged unit with a great case helps the unit last longer. It makes the OBD2 scanner a one-time investment for technicians’ automotive testing.

Auto Link AL539 OBD2 hasn’t passed through different testing phases, so it hasn’t got the backing of any category safety ratings. But, as automotive testing doesn’t involve transient voltages, missing this feature won’t make a major difference. However, depending on your applications, you may find some parts of overall testing hard due to a lack of NCV detector or live line testing functionality.

Uses:

---

and your By omitting toe need ofpayg a hefty amount to car mechanics, you’ll see a significant decrease in your monthly expenses. Moreover, an on-time inspection ensures the safety of your car and life.  Lastly, you won’t find any other cheap digital multimeter option for automotive testing other than the Auto Link AL539 OBD2.

---

---

2. KAIWEETS HT118A Digital Multimeter

---

---

Measurements:

Kaiwits HT 118A is another high-performing cheap multimeter that, apart from identifying current polarity, can measure all parameters and has the capability to perform all basic testing.

The features that it can measure include ac/dc voltage, ac/dc current, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and resistance, while continuity, diode check, and transistor check are three tests that Kaiweets is capable of performing.

Design:

The built-in kickstand of the Kaiwets HT 118A is very sturdy and provides good support during the testing process. It is the only multimeter on the list that comes with a built-in flashlight. thus omitting the need to hold a separate flashlight with you all the time.

However, neither you’ll get any magnetic hangers nor will there be any carrying pouches with the unit. So, if you are not willing to buy them separately, you may have a hard time operating this device.

the 2.9-inchWith 6000 counts, the thick digits on 2.9 LCD have a plain view that doesn’t distort even when viewed from an angle. Its backlights, in combination with a flashlight, make it the best affordable multimeter for nighttime use.

Functions:

If you would be frequently playing with variable speed drives, then go with this unit; its TRMS analysis mode and min/max measurement functionality will make the nonlinear analysis pretty straightforward and accurate. To make the nonlinear analysis more entertaining, a bar graph is shown in real-time at the bottom of the overall display.

Auto/manual ranging mode availability enhances the user experience of technicians, as they can enjoy taking readings at any of their desired settings. While staying functionless for a few minutes, the auto-shutoff feature gets activated, which switches off the multimeter on its own. This feature is necessary for battery conservation. Lastly, its data hold feature, located at the front interface, will also make troubleshooting easier.

Safety:

You’ll hardly find any multimeter that provides three layers of overload protection in the form of an anti-burn, PTC thermistor, and dual ceramic fuses. This feature makes Kaiweets HT 118A competitive with high-priced meters in the market.

Another reason that makes this unit a good buy is its protective outer casing made up of silicone, which takes on the responsibility of absorbing all harsh environments, starting from wear to high impact drops.

Moreover, it’s the only multimeter on the list that is backed by multiple certifications, including the IEC, CE, RoHS, and two safety ratings of CAT III (1000 V) and CAT IV (600 V). Thus, handling the transient voltages would be this beast’s responsibility. You’ll get a notification in the form of an alarm light and a loud buzzer, both while detecting the voltage with its NCV detector and live line testing. However, few users have faced issues with its detector, but that’s the case with very limited customers.

Others:

Kaiwits is a wonderful product with all the basic to mid-range features that make it an all-around product suitable for diagnosing circuit faults, inspecting home wiring, or repairing home appliances. Basic testing can be easily done with Kaiweets HT 118A.

---

---

3. Extech EX330 Autoranging Mini Multimeter

---

---

Measurements:

The Extechlity,Extech Ex330 is another great option for people looking for a basic multimeter at a cheap price, even below $100. It comes with AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, frequency, capacitance, resistance, and temperature measurement capability due to which it’s a highly popular unit among hobbyists.

A few more frequently used features include continuity and diode checking. But you’ll miss performing transistor checks and polarity identification with this unit.

Design:

You’ll enjoy limited flexibility in hands-free operation as only its tilting bail will assist you during in-house testing with no magnetic hanger or mounting strap. The lack of a built-in flashlight makes the EX330 unsuitable for nighttime use.

The ExtechExtech EX330 has one of the largest display screens in our list of the best cheap multimeters, so and has intuitive resolution; readings would be clearly readable even if the unit itself was placed far away.

With a fair screen count of 4000, this unit lacks both a backlight and a flashlight. So, choosing this product for nighttime use would be a very regretful decision.

Functions:

With dual operating modes, the Extech EX 330 clearly has an upper hand over many high-end single-mode multimeters that limit their use to either professionals or beginners. With this unit, anyone with any level of expertise can complete their job easily.

However, this unit falls into the category of non-TRMS multimeters, and having no min/max analysis mode restricts the unit to troubleshooting linear or non-varying systems. This is a major drawback.

Anytime during the operation, just press the hold button, and the multimeter will hold the display for you to note down the readings whenever you want. A very handy feature, especially in dark-area operations.

Another rare functionality this unit has is the REL button, which helps in checking the signal’s variation from a set value. The output is shown in the + or – to that set reference.

Lastly, Ex330 also equips an auto power-off feature that, by turning off the multimeter after 15 minutes of no activity, helps in avoiding frequent battery replacement due to quick draining.

Safety:

Ex330 has good input protection at both circuits that limits the current below the maximum value. But this overload protection can’t be regarded as high-end with no HRC fused connections.

However, thanks to its high-end casing construction, it shows great resistance to blows at the workplace, frequent drop impacts, harsh environments, and abusive use. So, expect it to remain the highlight of your tool kit for years to come.

With its high-end outer insulation, Ex330 effectively protects the user operating it by securely handling the transient voltages. CAT III (600V) and CAT II (1000V) safety ratings further build the user’s trust in this unit.

Although it comes at a pretty low price, Extech still has an integrated NCV detector and live line testing support. That’ll not only make testing at inaccessible places simpler but also make EX530 a standout product on the list.

Others:

Whether it’s your car, computer, behind-the-wall wires, duct electronics, or any other household task, Ex330 would be the right choice. One can use it for light industries but not for three-phase systems. Having all the basic testing features at a minimal level is why Ex330 is mostly loved by weekend DIY enthusiasts and electricians.

---

---

4. Keenstone Morpilot 17B+ Multimeter

---

---

Measurements:

By filtering out the transistor check and current polarity identification from the list of measurements, this unit can test all basic functions.

Despite being pretty cheap, it stands out from many expensive multimeters by having the same capability of measuring the AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and resistance.

Moreover, diodes can also be tested, and the existence of a connection between any two points can also be instantly verified with a loud buzzer.

Design:

This might not be the right product for HVAC testing due to the absence of a hanging magnet that acts as a third hand for the user in tough working conditions. That includes checking air conditioning ducts, air conditioners mounted on the wall, etc. But the sturdy built-in kickstand makes the operation simpler by allowing hands-free testing on a flat surface.

Expecting a multimeter under $50$ multimeter to come with a carrying pouch won’t be fair, as there are carrying cases on the market that are more expensive than the multimeter itself. So, spending some bucks to buy it separately would be justifiable.

Without any doubt, you’ll praise the thick digital display on its wide backlit LCD that remains clearly visible without any distortion, irrespective of the angle at which you are viewing the screen.

In addition to its good view, the resolution, with 6000 display counts, is also admirable, as rarely does a cheap multimeter provide as good a resolution as the Keenstone Morpiolet 17B. Either operate it in the lighted area or bring a flashlight with you, as the multimeter unit misses this built-in feature.

Functions:

Keenstone Morpiolet 17B is an all-round product that has all of the required basic testing options, including auto and manual ranging modes. Both modes are preferable for slow or quick testing, respectively. Moreover, an auto-shutoff feature to ensure its batteries last longer and a min/max function for better recording and analyzing the fluctuations are also possible with this unit.

Lastly, the data hold feature gives technicians an increased time span to comfortably record or note down the measurement. Thus, you’ll get a complete package of features in this best budget multimeter at a very minimal price.

Keenstone Morpiolet 17B will show the highly accurate output without relying on the type and nature of the waveform. Regardless of how varying the signal is and how much it fluctuates during the measurement process, you’ll get accurate results. Thus, it can handle nonlinear signals very effectively. Still, don’t expect its accuracy to match that of industrial Fluke meters. But still, it would be enough for the right diagnosis.

Safety:

Leave the task of overload protection to the dual ceramic fuses and thermistor installed at the input circuits of Keenstone Morpiolet 17B. You can get your job done without risking your life. What these components do is that they instantly trip off as the current tries to go beyond a defined value. These are rated at this value, thus preventing high amperages from burning the multimeter or shocking the user.

In addition to being compact in size, the Keenstone Morpiolet 17B is the best mini multimeter because it has a super strong outer shell that is highly effective in absorbing the drop impact. This feature prevents its effects from reaching the internal circuits. Thus, if you are planning to perform only basic troubleshooting with it, it’ll be the only investment you’ll make in years for your electronics testing. Moreover, having CAT IV safety ratings behind its back, the Keenstone Morpiolet 17B is a perfect device for a home inspection. As it provides both NCV detection and live line testing functionality, it is more loved by its customers. These features would be frequently used and are rarely present in cheap multimeters.

Others:

Keenstone Morpiolet 17B would be best suited for home use. It is pretty quick in diagnosing and testing switches, sockets, circuit breakers, etc. But will also act as a handy product in many other major testing areas. That includes the workshop, electronics lab, and automotive testing centers. But restrict it to basic use only. Thus, a great diagnostic tool to spend money on

---

---

5. Klein MM400 Multimeter

---

---

Measurements:

For people looking for budget multimeters that can perform all basic measurements with good accuracy, the Klein MM400 should be their choice. With its ability to measure AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, frequency, capacitance, resistance, and temperature, one can get all of his basic testing done by using this tool.

Other frequently used features that the Klein MM400 is equipped with are continuity and diode testing. Testing transistors and current polarity identification are two areas where Klein loses its reliability over other budget multimeters on the list that have these features.

Design:

A fewt’s A few missing elements, like a magnetic hanger or mostrap, limit the use of the Klein MM400 to some extent. But that’s the case with stand-up position testing or automotive troubleshooting only. With its built-in kickstand, you can comfortably perform in-house lab testing using this bench multimeter.

Thanks to its easy-to-rotate dial, rubbery buttons, and good-quality testing probes, the Klein MM400’s interface clearly beats out many high-priced multimeters.

No doubt you’ll get this budget meter at a pretty low price. But buying a separate carrying case will be costly as Klein doesn’t ship it in the same packaging. However, if you want to avoid this expense, keep the multimeter in your tool bag.

With the integration of white backlights, you’ll have the same experience working with the Klein MM400 both during the day and at night. But its resolution isn’t high-end, but still fair enough to be easily readable.

Functions:

The Klein MM400 is included in the list of dual-ranging budget multimeters. Moreover, to make its operation more user-friendly, Klein has added auto-shutoff and data hold functions. So, with more flexibility in testing, battery conservation, and instant data freezing functionality, you’ll definitely love this product.

Having perfected linear systems analysis, MM400 is highly reputable for its accuracy. But, being an average RMS unit, its results for nonlinear signal analysis involving high electrical disturbances will disappoint you. For high-end applications, spend some extra bucks on a multimeter with a TRMS feature.

However, knowing the highs and lows of the signal is pretty easy thanks to the addition of the min/max function. What you’ll have to do is press the min/max button before measuring the signal, and after filtration, you’ll get your desired results.

Safety:

Klein isn’t one of those brands that lowers the cost of their products at the expense of user safety. With 500 mA and 10 mA inputs and HRC fused connections, neither the overloaded current will burn the circuit nor will you be at risk of receiving a shock, which makes the MM400 a safe multimeter to use.

Very few multimeters are certified by ANSI for their good shock absorption capability. The Klein MM400 is the lucky one to be included in those devices, and its tested drop height is 1m. Another reason to trust this brand is that it is tough to build with a strong casing. That saves the multimeter from deterioration at the jobsite, regardless of how tough the working conditions are.

One can praise Klein MM400 for using high-end circuit boards for electronics and providing double outer insulation. Being CAT III safety rated further increases the user’s trust in this unit. Still, NCV detection and live line testing functionalities are missing in the Klein MM400, which may limit its use depending on your requirements.

Others:

Apart from complex industrial and high-power residential applications, you can use the Klein MM400 anywhere. Whether it’s your lab experiments, shop testing, home wiring, or any low-power application, the Klein MM400 will perform at its best.

---

---

6. Amprobe AMP-210 Clamp Meter

---

---

Measurements:

One cheap option in the clamp meter category is the AMP 210. Spending around 100 bucks may seem like a heavy amount, but its amazing features definitely justify its price.

DC current, current polarity, and transistor checks can’t be done with this unit. Apart from that, it measures and tests everything, whether it’s AC/DC voltage, temperature, capacitance frequency, resistance, AC current or continuity, or diode testing.

Design:

Being a clamp meter, you won’t need a kickstand support, as you won’t use it in the lab. But not having a magnetic hanger will make a massive difference in your testing experience, as you won’t be able to lend a helping hand during voltage measurements.

Still, handling the unit won’t require much struggle, as you can easily pack it in its carrying case. The best part is that it is shipped with the multimeter to perform the testing at multiple places on the job site. Moreover, you can also bring along other testing accessories.

6000 display counts, a ship-shape interface, and amazing screen resolution make a perfect combination that wins the hearts of its customers. Additionally, you can perform your job without considering how dark or lit your surroundings are. But arranging the flashlight would be your responsibility while operating AM 210 in the dark.

Functions:

The amp-tip functionality extends the multimeter’s use to low-current measurements. Even a 0.1-amp current can be measured with great accuracy. But keep in mind that not all clamp meters have this functionality, so choose wisely.

Where the auto-ranging function makes this clamp meter easy to use for beginners, the low-pass filter assists in getting the precise results of different parameters while playing with variable frequency drives!

Its TRMS analysis mode will frequently help the technicians while troubleshooting in an electrically noisy environment. Moreover, the min/max function is a handy feature when recording and analyzing abrupt fluctuations in the measured signal.

While operating the AMP 210 in inaccessible places like roofs and HVAC ducts, press the “REC” button to easily note down the reading. The reading will remain visible on the screen until you press the button again.

Lastly, inactivity of 30 minutes puts the AMP210 on rest mode, so short-memory people like me won’t have to worry about quick battery draining and every other day replacement.

Safety:

The AM210 is a well-tested device, so there are zero chances of an early breakout due to an accidental fall. Even years and years of a tough working environment won’t deteriorate the unit, and it’ll remain rigid forever.

Bear in mind that the AM210, being a clamp meter, measures the current with no direct connection. Thus, with zero chance of overloading, it won’t put your life at risk during the troubleshooting process.

Only a CAT-III rating is backing AMP 210, which ensures that this best budget multimeter’s use won’t be limited to low-power systems only. In fact, you can also inspect medium-power systems using this multimeter.

A NCV detector is installed in AM 210 that verifies voltage presence in inaccessible places like behind wall wiring, sockets, high-power wires, etc. Moreover, live line identification functionality is present in this unit as well.

Others:

If you aren’t willing to buy a traditional multimeter and you intend to perform basic household or residential testing, then you can go with this clamp meter. With its amazing features, it’ll be equally useful for both experienced professionals and beginners who are new to this game.

---

---

7. Tekpower Mastech MS8268 Multimeter

---

---

Measurements:

With all basic testing functionality, including the measurement of AC/DC current, AC/DC voltage, frequency, capacitance, and resistance, the Tekpower Mastech MS8268 is another cheap multimeter choice for beginners who are just getting started. However, if your testing involves frequent temperature measurements, this won’t be the right choice.

Moreover, it won’t take you more than one minute to verify current polarity, check the working condition of diodes, and test transistors.

Design:

Masteck MS8268 clearly lacks usability, with basic design elements missing. Apart from the kickstand, which keeps the unit in an upright position, you won’t get a magnetic hanger, mounting strap, or carrying pouch.

Although the initial cost may seem minimal, buying these things separately would add up to make it a very expensive buy. So, if you can manage with these features missing, only then should you buy this product.

This unit doesn’t require light for its operation, as with its blue backlight, the measurements would be easy to see. It has 4000 display counts and a screen refresh rate of 3 times per second.

Functions:

Masteck MS8268 allows easy switching between auto and manual ranging modes even while performing experiments. So, both beginners and professionals will love this unit. However, TRMS analysis mode and min/max measurement functionality are missing in MS8268, which makes the unit ineligible to be used for nonlinear applications.

For easy memorization and comfortable testing, a data hold feature has been added to this unit. That’ll contribute to simplifying the overall testing process. Moreover, by turning on the LED and loud buzzer, it directs technicians to insert the jack in the right place if they mistakenly insert it in the wrong slot.

Another element that differentiates MS8268 from the rest of the best budget multimeters is its relative mode, which records data in + or – to any respective value stored by the user. However, its auto-shutoff feature works the same as other multimeter units.

Safety:

The main amperage circuit equips a 10A input ceramic fuse, and a resettable temperature coefficient PTC fuse on its milliamp circuit prevents overloading affecting both circuits. Thus, high-quality circuits with good input protection make the unit long-lasting.

The combination of the tough outer casing and shock-absorbing rubber boot resists jobsite abuse and accidental falls. No risk of an early breakout gives peace of mind to the technician operating it. So, without any doubt, you can rely on this product.

One can’t expect every claim by the manufacturer to be correct. The absence of any kind of protection on the main terminal jack doesn’t meet the criteria for having good safety ratings. Thus, limiting the MS8268 to low-energy circuits would be beneficial. However, with no NCV detector or live line testing provision, its use will be very limited.

Others:

As mentioned earlier, Masteck MS8268 is most suitable for beginners. However, DIY enthusiasts can equally get their job done with this unit. If you just want a cheap multimeter for basic household troubleshooting and computer power supply diagnosis, then you can go with this device.

---

---

8. Neoteck NT8233D Multimeter

---

---

Measurements:

Another great option to definitely consider for the best cheap multimeter is the Neoteck NT8233D. The only two features that this unit lacks are temperature measurement and transistor testing. Otherwise, name any other parameter, and NT8233D will measure it for you.

The list of measured parameters includes AC/DC current, AC/DC voltage, resistance, continuity, frequency, and capacitance. You’ll also love its quick response during the continuity verification and diode check.

Design:

A little extra money spent on buying the hanging magnet or strap would be one of the best investments, as they don’t come with the unit. However, their huge range of benefits justifies the price. Moreover, when used in combination with a built-in kickstand, it would further enhance the flexibility of performing your duty single-handedly.

If you have a tight budget, then go for another cheap multimeter that includes a carrying case at the same price. With the NT8233D, you’ll have to spend more than just on a hanging magnet. but carrying a pouch to keep all the testing equipment together as well.

Don’t expect the NT8233D to have a high-end resolution like that of expensive meters like Fluke. But its thick digital data representation compensates for its low-resolution display to some extent. So, if you aren’t suffering from weak eyesight, taking measurements with this unit won’t be an issue. Its overall display counts stand at 2000, and the screen has a white backlight. Just don’t forget to bring a flashlight with you for nighttime testing.

Functions:

If you can deal with the slow-responsive auto-ranging mode, no min/max, or TRMS analysis mode, and if you intend to perform only basic linear testing, then go for this unit. But do keep in mind that all these missing features will certainly limit its accuracy and performance.

However, the auto-shutoff feature notifies the user in the form of a loud buzzer before it activates. Moreover, you’ll always have the option to freeze the measuring value at any time, which is hard to note during tough job operations.

Safety:

Neoteck NT8233D doesn’t only have an elegant look and feel, but its non-slippery soft plastic touch will provide good drop protection as well. Thus, frequent drops won’t fracture the unit instantly.

But, with no HRC fuses, the overload protection provided by the Neoteck NT8233D isn’t high-end. Still, its integrated fused connections act as a barrier against overloading the circuit and harming the user. So, this shouldn’t be a major reason for ignoring this product.

Neoteck’s NT8233D falls into safety class IEC 61010-1 for its best overload protection. Moreover, being a CAT II (600) rated product, it’s pretty safe to operate and handles the transient voltages well. However, neither the NCV detector nor the live line identification functionality are installed in this unit.

Others:

Two dedicated areas where this unit performs the best include automotive testing and electrical household troubleshooting. Still, hobbyists and weekend DIY enthusiasts will equally enjoy doing experiments with this beast.

---

---

What to look for before buying the best budget multimeters

One thing that limits our choices while purchasing any product is its cost. In most cases, it’s our tight budget that doesn’t let us buy the item of our desired specifications. But worry not; that’s not the case with multimeters.

You can buy a multimeter for as little as $20.. But how can we compare these cheap products with high-end, costly multimeters, and how do they differ from each other? If these questions are echoing in your mind, then stick to our buyer’s guide. We’ll be going through five major elements that help in comparing two multimeters with different prices and specs.

These features include the multimeter’s measurement capability, overall design elements, features, safety, and area of applications. Hold still, as we’ll discuss each factor independently.

Without further ado, let’s get to the point:

Measurements:

Without a doubt, cheap multimeters will definitely lack many features when compared with a high-priced, professional multimeter. But, regardless of how low the price of the multimeter is, it should be capable of performing frequently used basic multimeters.

These include measurements of AC/DC current, AC/DC voltage, temperature, resistance, capacitance, and frequency, as well as a few tests involving circuit continuity, diodes, and transistors.

Even if you are looking for the best cheap multimeter that can only perform basic household tasks or experiments at home, these functions must be there. If your selected unit lacks any of these features, simply don’t waste your money on it.

Design:

With good measurement capability, another aspect to consider is the usability of the multimeter. How easy or difficult the multimeter operation is totally depends on how many design elements the unit has.

A few basic design elements that help in improving the overall testing process include an easy-to-use interface, a high-resolution LCD, a hanging magnet, a kickstand, a flashlight, and LCD backlights.

A brief overview of how these features will lend a helping hand is given below:

1. The kickstand is the most basic need for performing lab experiments. By omitting the need to hold the multimeter in hand, it’ll cut the time by half that you’ll be spending in the lab. The best part is that you won’t need any assistance in getting your job done.
2. If you are intending to perform a lot of testing in a standing position, then having a built-in magnetic hanger and strap is a must. The missing hanging magnet may make troubleshooting harder for you. So, you won’t be able to attach it to any metal surface. Missing the strap will take away the flexibility of hanging the unit with a belt while moving around the job site.
3. Having a bad resolution and a small LCD that make the measurements difficult to read will nullify the fact of how advanced the multimeter is. So, if you intend to operate the cheap multimeter in areas with no light access, then make sure the selected unit has high resolution with bright backlights.
4. Only the high-priced multimeters have a built-in flashlight. So, it’s not a major design element. You can also compensate for this feature by bringing a separate light source with you. But having this feature would be a plus.

Functions:

With good measurement capability and excellent design, the next major area to look into is how many functions the multimeter has. Although a few of the advanced functions like data logging, remote data transfer, measurement printing, etc. aren’t available in nearly all cheap multimeters,

But TRMS analysis mode, min/max data recording, data hold, and auto-shutoff functionality are a few of the necessary or must-have features that must be present in whatever meter we buy.

Buying a unit that lacks these features would be a waste of both time and money.

Explanation:

How much flexibility each factor will provide is explained below:

1. If you are unaware of the difference between these two ranges, then the short answer would be that auto-ranging has a slow response but is loved by apprentices who are just getting started. However, manual ranging mode with fast output is preferred for quick testing. Choosing a unit with dual-range mode will be beneficial for you in the long run. This lets the user speed up or slow down the testing process depending on the nature of the job.
2. Average RMS multimeters are limited to linear signal analysis only, and when measuring electrically disturbed signals, the results aren’t accurate. So, always go for a unit with a TRMS analysis mode that analyzes the signals without depending on their waveform or shape.
3. Another feature that is handy in nonlinear signal analysis is the min/max measurement mode. It stores the minimum and maximum values that signals attain during the recorded time, which further helps in checking the fluctuations.
4. Another feature that technicians love to use is the auto-hold function. It gives users enough time to note down the measurements by freezing them on screen in real-time, which simplifies the overall process.
5. An auto-shutoff feature is added to the multimeters that puts the unit to sleep after staying at rest for a few minutes. This is a handy feature for people with short memories who often forget to turn off the multimeter. Thus, your battery won’t drain out in a few weeks.

Safety:

Two more things to consider while finalizing the multimeter unit are product safety and certifications. Choosing a certified product will give you peace of mind by guaranteeing that no mishap will occur. Moreover, having drop protection, overload protection, and safety ratings ensures the product will remain a testing partner for years.

Three of the major safety features are explained below:

1. Both the upper and lower current ranges are defined by the multimeter manufacturer. If, unknowingly, the measuring current exceeds this maximum value, a fused connection is required at the current circuit input that trips off to avoid circuit overloading. So, to stay safe from shocks, make sure the chosen unit is internally fused.
2. If you want your multimeter to last a long time, make sure it has a tough outer casing for withstanding jobsite toughness and a rubber holster for absorbing the drop impact.
3. Being backed by internationally recognized safety ratings increases the worth of a multimeter. Out of four categories starting from CAT 1 to CAT IV, your multimeter must be backed by at least one, if not more, safety rating.

Others:

Warranty and battery life shouldn’t be ignored while making a purchase, as although these things don’t have any direct impact on the multimeter’s performance, they clearly save technicians from the headache of frequent replacements.

Finally, ensure that the inexpensive multimeter you choose serves the purpose for which you purchased it. So, you may not end up spending money on the wrong product.

---

FAQs

---

Final Verdict

---

So, here is the list of the top 8 best budget multimeters. Each product is chosen with low cost as the first priority but without compromising on advanced features or high-end safety. Thus, each product would be safe to use and would perform best in the desired operation.

You can go for any product that you think would be right for you. But choosing the Autolink for automotive purposes, the Kaiweets HT188A for general-purpose use, and the Extech EX330 as a low-cost option would be a wise decision.

Still, you are open to making the decision on your own, and our buyer’s guide would have surely helped you determine the basic features to look for before buying the best cheap multimeter.

Happy Testing!