In this article, we’ll review the eight best multimeters for electricians.
It is true that finding the right multimeter is the most difficult task for an electrician, especially when he is just getting started and doesn’t know the ins and outs of different products.
One decade ago, when I started my career as an electrician apprentice, I spent hundreds of bucks in my pursuit to find the right multimeter for my electrician tasks.
After testing tens of products with my own hands, I am now in a position to suggest which would be the best multimeter for an electrician.
I’ll help you get a single product that can be used for electronics testing, HVAC troubleshooting, fault diagnosis, and many other applications as well.
So, if you don’t want to learn things the hard way that I did, then stick to this article. I can guarantee that after reading this article, you will be knowledgeable enough to make the decision on your own!
Without further ado, let’s dive deep into it!
Contents
- 0.1 1. Klein MM700 Multimeter
- 0.2 2. Extech EX365 Multimeter
- 0.3 3. Innova 3340 Multimeter
- 0.4 4. Fluke 287 Multimeter
- 0.5 5. Bside ZT-M1 Multimeter
- 0.6 6. Amprobe 34XR-A Multimeter
- 0.7 7. Tekpower Mastech MS8268 Multimeter
- 0.8 8. Proster VC99 Multimeter
- 1 What to look for before buying the best electrician’s multimeters
1. Klein MM700 Multimeter
|
What it has |
What does it lack? |
|
Low impedance mode |
No flashlight |
Measurements:
The Klein MM700 is capable of measuring AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and resistance. You’ll also have the flexibility to perform continuity and diode checks using the MM700 multimeter.
Klein MM700 fails to perform a transistor check or polarity identification.
Design:
The Klein MM700 is equipped with a kickstand that allows freehand operation while working on flat surfaces, especially in electronics shops. But it is not equipped with a hanging magnet or mounting strap. So, you may need a helping hand while using the unit in a standing position.
The carrying pouch of the MM700 will have enough space to accommodate not only the multimeter unit but related accessories as well. That includes the thermocouple, testing probes, and batteries. Thus, you won’t misplace anything!
With 4000 display counts, the Klein MM700 multimeter has a good-resolution LCD, not outstanding, but still clear enough to be easily visible during the day. With its backlights, you won’t find any problem taking readings during the night.
To give an analog feel, the Klein MM700 has added a bar graph feature that shows readings in analog form and sits underneath the display screen. However, it is very handy for dealing with fluctuations.
However, keep a separate headlamp or any other light source with you in order to operate in dark areas, as this unit doesn’t have a built-in flashlight.
Functions:
Klein MM700 can operate in both auto and manual ranging modes with low impedance, helping to eliminate ghost voltages in the source being tested to achieve highly accurate results!
The Klein MM 700 is a TRMS multimeter, which makes it suitable to deal with disturbed and nonlinear signals. This feature gives this unit an edge over other non-RMS multimeters for electricians. Additionally, the min/max function keeps track of the signal’s highs and lows to see the difference in the signal’s fluctuations.
Two more features that electricians often overlook include the data hold and auto-shutoff features. The first one helps freeze vale for later use, and the later one kicks in after a few minutes of inactivity. thus helping the battery last long!
Safety:
Klein MM700 has an ingress protection of IP42, with two fuses rated at 10A and 500 mA protecting the high and low amp circuits, respectively. In the event of a current exceeding these limits, they will instantly trip off to dismantle the electrical connection, thus saving both the user and the multimeter at the same time.
The Klein MM700 is a rugged and meaty multimeter unit that perfectly fits the hard-working environment. The Klein doesn’t scrimp on build quality, so expect the unit to remain your working partner for years.
Where it provides excellent wear resistance, it is also tested to effectively withstand the drop impact from an altitude of 2 m.
Having CAT III up to 1000 V and CAT IV up to 600 V safety ratings at its back, the Klein MM700 is safe to use as a multimeter unit in medium- to high-power applications.
Where it provides greater freedom in many departments, MM700 fails to perform NVC detection and live line testing. So, the only way to check the amperage is by making a physical electrical connection.
In terms of its applications, this chunky, funky-looking multimeter is equally suitable for both professionals and beginners. It can be used for residential, business, and light industry troubleshooting. It would also do all jobs for electricians, mobile repair technicians, DIY enthusiasts, and school-going kids. Thus, one can consider it to be an ideal multimeter.
2. Extech EX365 Multimeter
|
What it has |
What does it lack? |
|
Built-in stand |
No carrying pouch |
Measurements:
Extech EX365 is a compact electrical multimeter that can measure AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, resistance, frequency, and capacitance.
One can also perform continuity and diode checks with this unit. But it fails to measure temperature and perform a transistor check.
Design:
Handling Ex365 is pretty easy with its tilting bail and backside hanging magnet. Where the magnetic hanger lets you connect the unit to any metal surface and do the job alone, the tilting bail built into the holster provides support while operating the unit on a flat surface. This is one area where Ex365 beats other electrical meter testers for electricians on the list.
Things missing in EX365 include the carrying pouch and flashlight; thus, either you’ll have to buy these components separately or go with any other unit.
Ex365 has the best 6000 counts and a high-resolution display, and its thick digits are sharp enough to be easily read even when viewed from an angle. That’ll simply make your life easier.
The 60-segment bar graph gives a perfect analog touch while showing how fluctuating the measuring signal is. Moreover, its orange backlight brightens up the screen when operated in dark mode.
Functions:
Thanks to a low impedance function that switches to lower internal resistance, the Extech EX365 doesn’t let ghost voltages disturb its accuracy.
With easy switching between auto and manual ranging modes, one can easily gauge the irregular waveforms of disturbing signals like those of variable speed motor drives using this TRMS multimeter. But, with no min/max function, recording the highs and lows of a signal isn’t possible.
A relative mode, also known as the zero mode, will give you the flexibility to measure all readings as + or – of the stored reference value. This helps in the estimation of how much data fluctuates from a certain point. This also helps in getting better accuracy by subtracting the wire resistance from the measured value.
Moreover, the auto-off and hold functions will perfectly do their job in the Extech Ex365 multimeter as well!
Safety:
Both the main amperage circuit and milliamp circuit have input overload protection in the form of 10A and 500mA fast-blow fuses to protect the circuit from burning out with current exceeding its limit only once!
Rubber holsters, by absorbing the drop impact, make sure that the product is safe. EX365 is also tested to withstand a four-foot drop without getting damaged. No other electrician’s multimeter is tested like that.
The overall casing is also solid enough to bear the wear and tear of harsh working environments. In short, you can expect Ex365 to remain your partner for years to come!
Just like most multimeters on the list, EX365 is also a CAT-IV (600V) and CAT-III (1000V) rated multimeter with good input protection and a built-in blast shield. So, you can use this multimeter for low to medium-level power areas.
Bring Ex365 close to any voltage source by holding it in your hand. It’ll also notify you if the voltage is present in the surrounding wires and sockets or not by lighting up an LED. thus omitting the need to make any physical circuit connections. Live line filtration is also possible using Ex365.
With a good build and advanced features, Extech is a decent electrician’s meter. It can also be used for high-end industrial and residential uses. However, the only limitation that you’ll feel with this unit is the absence of microamp measurement features. Still, it can be considered the best professional multimeter for high-end jobs!
3. Innova 3340 Multimeter
|
What it has |
What does it lack? |
|
Carrying pouch availability |
No kickstand |
Measurements:
The Innova 3340 has the capability to measure AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, temperature, frequency, and RPM.
You can also verify the continuity and check diodes using this multimeter.
Design:
The inclusion of test lead holders provides hands-free protection.
The spacious nylon carrying case that you’ll get with the Innova 3340 will be sufficient to keep the multimeter itself and its related accessories in one place.
With a 3999-count, fair-resolution LCD, the Innova 3340 clearly displays the measuring readings to make it easy for electricians to note. But if you are going to buy this unit, bear in mind that you won’t be able to use it at night due to the absence of a backlight and flashlights.
Additionally, with no kickstand or hanging magnetic, you won’t enjoy the greater flexibility of doing your job single-handedly. However, with the addition of a backside probe holder, you can fix one probe and connect the other to the circuit to comfortably take readings.
Functions:
Dwell angle and rpm can be changed by pressing the CYL button, while in order to change between different parameters while operating the Innova 3340 in auto-ranging mode, you need to press the SEL button. You just need to set the parameter, and the multimeter will adjust the range automatically. These features make it not only the best multimeter for electricians but automotive technicians as well.
Being a true RMS multimeter with a min/max storage function, you can play with nonlinear signals, particularly those involving variable speed drives, to get accurate results. Moreover, by recording the highs and lows of those signals, you can use your electrical knowledge to estimate the fluctuations.
Holding data that you can’t read or note instantly will make your reading process simpler. If you are like me and forget to turn off the unit, then its auto-shutoff feature will greatly help you!
Safety:
10 MÎ input impedance is integrated into the circuit to protect not only the main amperage circuit but the car engine. The small milliamp circuit is also protected by a 500 mA fuse that instantly trips off if the current exceeds its limit.
The extended corner guards provide additional security by preventing any damage in the event of the unit’s accidental drop after it slips from the user’s hand. Additionally, the rubber boot helps make the Innova 3340 more durable and able to withstand any harsh environment without deteriorating.
The only care that you need to take is not to put a heavy load on the probe lead holders, as they aren’t strong enough for that and will break off!
A very small number of products succeed in getting the UL label. Innova 3340 is one of them that proves its safe nature. However, it is only backed by CAT II safety ratings, so limit its use to very low-power applications.
Just like Proster CV99, Innove also fails to perform non-contact voltage detection and live line testing. So, if you often need to check the voltage across sockets, wires, switches, etc., then go for some other unit.
Being capable of measuring almost every parameter, starting from circuit current to engine rpm. Thus, the Innova 3340 would be best suited for home troubleshooting jobs, making it a perfect tool for electricians. Hobbyists and electrical engineering students can equally benefit from this unit.
Additionally, with its capability to test alternator diodes, duty cycles, breaker points, wiring, and switches, the Innova 340 competes with a highly-priced and advanced Fluke multimeter, and it comes at three times the price!
4. Fluke 287 Multimeter
|
What it has |
What does it lack? |
|
Magnetic hanger availability |
No built-in stand |
Measurements:
The Fluke 287 true RMS multimeter can actively measure nearly all parameters that an electrician would need, including the AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and resistance.
All fluke multimeters can perform a continuity check; 287 is no exemption. Instantly, you can verify the electrical connection between two points and test diodes as well. Due to its high reputation, it is considered to be the best electrician’s multimeter, but it’s very expensive.
Fluke 287 lacks in performing the transistor check or polarity identification. But as an electrician, you’ll rarely find a need for these two parameters.
Design:
Although there is no built-in stand available in Fluke 287 that limits its hands-free use on a flat surface, However, being equipped with a magnetic hanger, you can attach this beast to any magnetic surface to do your job alone. Thus, even while operating the unit in a standing position, you won’t find any problems.
Bear in mind that you won’t get any carrying pouches with Fluke 287. So, you’ll have no option other than to empty some space in your tool kit or buy a separate carrying case.
Additionally, the lack of a built-in flashlight will be a separate headache for people intending to use this unit at night. But you can carry a separate headlamp with you to overcome this deficiency.
Fluke 287 is equipped with a wide, outstanding-resolution LCD with 50,000 display counts. So, even people with poor eyesight can clearly see the readings without putting on glasses. Moreover, its backlight brightens up the whole screen at night to make it easy for electricians to take readings.
Functions:
Dealing with the nonlinear loads won’t be difficult with Fluke 287. Moreover, being workable in both auto and manual ranging modes with easy switching by pressing the RANGE button, it is the best electric meter tester for electricians regardless of their level of expertise.
Additionally, you can filter out the highs and lows of the measuring signal. One can also do graphing with trend capture using a dot matrix display. The recorded data can be exported to a phone or PC for later analysis.
Four hot keys, represented by F1 to F4, can be used to access and control four functions. Namely, menu, save, offset, and set up, with each assigned to perform a certain function.
Apart from these hotkeys, you can also freeze any value instantly by pressing the Hold button. You’ll have the flexibility to note this value after disconnecting the probes. Its built-in auto shut-off will take care of turning off the unit when not in use to help its battery last longer!
Fluke 287 is the only unit equipped with the above-mentioned features in our selection of the best multimeters for electricians!
Safety:
Nobody wants their multimeter to blow out in the very first week. So, for safety against overloading, two HRC fuses rated at 440 mA and 11 A are installed for the milliamp circuit and main amp circuit, respectively. They are very handy for quick tripping to disconnect the circuit from the supply line current when it exceeds the maximum limit.
Fluke is highly reputable for the robust structure and strong casing of its multimeter. Thus, it won’t break out with one slip from your hands.
Although its rubber holster will protect the unit from jobsite wear, But the more you take care of it, the longer the unit will last!
With its NVC detection and live line testing features, you can easily check the voltage in the lines and electrical panel from a safer distance without even making a physical connection. That will omit the need to wear PPE while troubleshooting in high-power areas.
Being backed by bona fide associations proves its high input protection against overloading, and CAT IV and CAT III safety ratings make it a shock-free and safe unit to be used in high-power areas. Last but not least, it is also listed by UL in the list of safe-to-use multimeters.
This multimeter unit has been certified by the Bonafide Association for its great input protection.
This meter is also safety rated to CAT-IV for up to 600V and CAT-III for up to 1000V, which makes it suitable to use in areas with high power. It is also listed by UL.
While fairly complex, the Fluke 287 has a user-friendly interface plus help screens and is multi-lingual, so you can perform unattended monitoring. One can zoom in on graphs as much as 14 times for higher resolutions. Moreover, after exporting through Fluke Connect, you can share your data via ShareLive video.
You can also save and analyze data into professional documents via FlukeView. The only downsides to all this connectivity and usability are that you have to pay extra for the adapter to transfer the data and also for the software.
This multimeter unit is suitable for both commercial and residential operations. If you are an electrician, this is your go-to product.
5. Bside ZT-M1 Multimeter
|
What it has |
What does it lack? |
|
TRMS measurement. |
No magnetic hanger |
Measurements:
The BSIDE ZT-M1 multimeter is designed to measure AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and resistance, with the capability to perform continuity checks and diode checks.
Although the lack of these features won’t make much difference to electricians jobs, just to mention, you can’t perform polarity identification and transistor checks using the BSIDE ZT-M1 multimeter.
Design:
The availability of the backside stand makes the note-taking process simpler during bench work. But bear in mind that there is no allowance to connect a magnetic hanger or mounting strap. Thus, doing the job alone in a standing position will be a bit difficult.
Keeping the multimeter and related accessories in a well-designed carry pouch reduces the chances of misplacing anything at the job site. Additionally, with a flashlight on its back, you won’t need any separate light source while operating the unit in dark places.
The BSIDE ZT-M1 multimeter equips an 8000-count EBTN LCD. It enhances the user’s reading experience by lightening up the number with its bright black background. Thus, it is equally usable in both sunlight and poor light. This is by far the highest resolution that any best multimeter for electricians has on our list.
With its 3-line display, voltage, frequency, and analog bar are simultaneously displayed to make the note-taking process more flexible.
Functions:
BSIDE ZT-M1 TRMS multimeter shares both auto and manual ranging modes. Moreover, pressing the variable frequency control (VFC) button employs a low-pass filter that helps in the accurate measurement of variable-speed drives. A VFC-function inverter has a role in measuring the output voltages of inverters.
Additionally, by activating the min/max mode, you can set the unit to filter out the minimum and maximum values. This data helps to estimate the exact fluctuations of the varying signal. Just like any other unit, the BSIDE ZT-M1 multimeter also has auto-shutoff and a data hold feature.
Safety:
The milliamp circuit of the BSIDE ZT-M1 multimeter protects the unit against overloading with an 800 mA HRC fuse, while the 20 A fuse provides overload protection to the main amperage circuit.
The strong protective casing of the BSIDE ZT-M1 multimeter protects it against any kind of shock, friction, or bump. Moreover, its rubber holster helps the unit withstand drop impacts!
The BSIDE ZT-M1 multimeter has CATIV up to 1000 V and CAT III up to 600 V safety ratings that guarantee the safe nature of this multimeter. Thus, you won’t get a shock while using this beast in high-power applications.
During the voltage detection in any socket or wire, the LED on its top starts blinking with a loud sound of the alarm. It notifies the technician about the presence of voltage. The BSIDE ZT-M1 multimeter can also be used to perform live line testing.
Well, mainly, the BSIDE ZT-M1 multimeter is designed to be used for automobile circuit testing. But, with all its advanced features, it’ll equally be the working partner of HVAC technicians, small electric shop owners, mobile repairers, and last but not least, beginners to advanced-level electricians!
6. Amprobe 34XR-A Multimeter
|
What it has |
What does it lack? |
|
Hanging magnet capability |
No kickstand |
Measurements:
Amprobe 34XR-A can measure a wide range of parameters, including the AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and resistance.
One can also perform a diode check and continuity check in no time; however, you may not like the continuity verification beeper as it’s a bit irritating. This isn’t the case for other best electricians multimeters.
Amprobe 34XR-A, however, doesn’t share the functionality of doing polarity identification and transistor checks. But you won’t find a need for both features quite often!
Design:
A spare milliamp fuse is also available with the meter.
No kickstand is available with the Amprobe 34XR. A multimeter, but magnetic hanging capability overcomes this deficiency, allowing the user to perform troubleshooting singlehandedly by mounting the unit on any magnetic surface.
With no carrying pouch to hold the unit and related accessories, you’ll have to empty some space in your tool kit. The Amprobe 34XR-A doesn’t incorporate any built-in flashlights. So, arrange a separate light source before going for troubleshooting in dimly lit areas.
With a nice blue backlight, you can easily use the Amprobe 34XR-A at night. However, don’t expect its resolution to be super high.
Having a 4000-count display and small digit representation, it doesn’t fall into the list of best-resolution electrician multimeters. However, the addition of a bar graph that lies beneath the LCD gives it a little analog touch that helps while dealing with highly fluctuating signals.
Functions:
Amprobe 34XRA can be operated in any auto- or manual-ranging mode. One can achieve better accuracy while dealing with varying or disturbing signals. Being a TRMS multimeter, it can effectively filter out disturbances.
With a min/max storage function, it can easily record the high and low values that a certain signal reaches to better understand the fluctuations.
Just like any other multimeter unit in the list, the data freeze and auto-shutoff features are there in the Amprobe 34XR-A as well. The later feature conserves the battery of the multimeter by turning it off when not in use!
Safety:
Two easily replaceable, high-end HRC fuses, rated at 315 mA and 10 mA, provide input amperage protection to milliamp and main ampere circuits, respectively, making the Amprobe 34XR-A a shock-free and safe-to-use multimeter!
Amprobe 34XR-A is a well-engineered multimeter with a tough outer casing. Being enclosed in a rubber holster, it can withstand abuse of any amount.
Its surface toughness makes it eligible to bear the drop impacts. However, it’s a bit heavy in comparison with other best multimeters for electricians!
CAT II (1000V) and CAT III (600V) are two safety ratings. The Amprobe 34XR-A multimeter is backed with Thus, it is safe to use in high-power residential and commercial troubleshooting.
One of the distinguishing features that the Amprobe 34XR-A has is its warning beeper. When someone puts measuring plugs in the wrong sockets, it makes a loud sound!
The beeper will sound should you inadvertently plug into an amplified socket and select the wrong function.
With no no-contact voltage detection and live line testing, you won’t have much flexibility in identifying the presence of voltage in high-power wires.
Amprobe 34XR-A will be the perfect partner for electronics technicians who intend to use it for bench or fieldwork. Moreover, its ability to measure microamps makes it eligible for use in HVAC work and motor drive diagnostics!
7. Tekpower Mastech MS8268 Multimeter
|
What it has |
What does it lack? |
|
Built-in kickstand |
No hanging magnet |
Measurements:
One can easily measure AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, frequency, capacitance, and resistance using the Mastech MS8268 multimeter unit.
You’ll also have the flexibility to perform polarity identification, diode checking, and transistor checking in no time.
The only thing that you’ll miss with this unit is the temperature measurement. So, if your experiments involve temperature measurements, go for some other best multimeter for electricians with temperature measurement capability.
Design:
The only advanced feature that’ll help you in hands-free operation while operating the Mastech MS8268 on a flat surface is the kickstand, as this unit isn’t equipped with a hanging magnet or mounting strap.
Additionally, empty some space in your tool kit before the Mastech MS8268 reaches your home, as it doesn’t come with a carrying pouch.
We can’t say that the Mastech MS8268 has a very high-resolution display, but with 4000 display counts, one can easily take readings during the day. Moreover, thanks to its blue backlight, digits will be brightened up while operating the unit in dark areas.
But always take a separate flashlight or headlamp with you at night, as there is no built-in light source in the Mastech MS8268.
Functions:
Mastech MS8268 is not a true RMS multimeter; thus, it is limited to linear signal analysis only, and with no min/max function to record the highs and lows of a signal, you won’t be able to estimate the fluctuations.
However, you can operate the Mastech MS8268 in both auto and manual ranging modes with easy switching between them. Its relative function will be very handy in the observation of the variations of all measuring values in + or – from a set reference.
Just like other units, the freezing value with the hold function and built-in auto-shutoff will be very beneficial in increasing the life span of its battery.
Safety:
The integration of a 10A ceramic fuse at the input of the main amperage circuit and another resettable PTC fuse with the milliamps circuit protects both circuits in case of overloading.
Thanks to its strong outer casing, jobsite abuse won’t deteriorate MS8368 in a short time. Its external rubber holster will absorb the impact of accidental drops.
MS8368 can only be used for low-energy circuits as there is no dedicated protection on the main terminal jack. That omits Mastech’s claims of having CAT II and CAT III ratings. thus making this unit less trustable than other best multimeters for electricians.
When the user puts the jack in the wrong socket, the unit notifies the right socket to insert the jack. It also lights up an LED and makes a loud buzzer. This is an additional feature that you won’t see in nearly all multimeters.
The absence of non-contact voltage detection and live line testing features further limits the MS8368’s use for high-power applications. But will this product succeed if you intend to use it for non-contact voltage detection in live line testing? Unfortunately, you won’t have this flexibility with MS8268.
Mastech MS8268, with its ability to perform all basic-level jobs, is best for all those electronics technicians, hobbyists, and DIY enthusiasts who neither want all advanced measurement features nor want to spend a huge amount of cash!
8. Proster VC99 Multimeter
|
What it has |
What does it lack? |
|
Built-in kickstand |
No magnetic hanger |
Measurements:
A poster DMM can measure AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and resistance.
Additionally, Proster is the only unit on the list that has the capability to perform continuity, transistor, and diode checks with the flexibility to perform polarity identification as well.
Design:
The backside kickstand of the Proster multimeter provides support for keeping the unit in an upright position while operating it on a shop bench. However, you’ll have to hold the unit in your hand while using it in a standing position with no magnetic hanger or strap.
If you often misplace certain accessories at our job site, then a nicely designed carrying case provided by Proster will help you keep everything in one place, omitting the chance of losing any accessory.
One can easily praise its 6000 counts and high-resolution LCD display, and Proster beats many other high-priced multimeters for electricians, like Fluke, in this department. Additionally, an analog bar graph at the bottom of the LCD will be handy in analyzing how the signal is fluctuating over time.
Everything is good except for the absence of built-in backlights and a flashlight. So clearly, you can’t use this unit at night.
Functions:
With quick swapping, one can operate Proster in both auto and manual ranging modes. But no TRMS feature makes this unit less competent in comparison with any other electrician’s multimeter.
However, you can analyze the trend of the signal’s fluctuations by recording its highs and lows by putting the unit on min/max mode. Additionally, with its relative mode, you can see the difference between the reference value and the present recording data.
Additionally, by setting the unit on relative mode, the multimeter will display the exact difference between the already set reference value and the presently measured value in + and -.
Two additional features included data hold and auto shut off, which help in freezing value for later use and conserving battery, respectively.
Safety:
Two glass fuses rated at 10A and 600 mA protect both the main amperage and milliamp circuits, respectively. But my recommendation would be to replace these with HRC ones to enjoy high-end overload protection.
With its highly protective rubber sleeve that can withstand heavy knocks and bumps, the Proster multimeter will remain your working partner for years!
Although the rubber holster protects the unit from damage after the accidental drop, However, avoid dropping it quite often to make it last!
Poster CV99 is a CAT II and CAT III safety-rated multimeter up to 1000V and 600V, respectively. This rating acts as a surety that electricians are safe from electric shocks in case of any misadventure.
Two advanced features that this multimeter unit lacks include non-contact voltage detection and live line testing. So, you would have no option to check voltage presence other than joining probes with the source!
Poster CV99 will be the best electrician’s multimeter for those who are just getting started. But not for professionals, as it doesn’t incorporate most of the advanced functions. However, if you are just buying it for doing experiments at home or for testing batteries, circuits, and low-energy appliances, then you can go for it!
What to look for before buying the best electrician’s multimeters
While selecting the best electrician’s multimeter, five major areas of the selected number of products must be compared. This will help to filter out the best one, which includes the design, measurements, functions, safety, and applications.
In this buying guide, we’ll explain each area individually. So stick to it to develop a better understanding!
Measurements:
The most important feature for selecting an electrician’s multimeter is how many parameters the selected unit can measure, which include AC/DC current, AC/DC voltage, temperature, frequency, resistance, and capacitance. If your multimeter fails to measure any of these features, go for another unit!
Additionally, the multimeter for electricians work should also be capable of verifying circuit continuity and testing diodes and transistors.
Design:
There are a few design elements that make troubleshooting easier for electricians and give flexibility in operation that every multimeter should have to be considered an advanced electrician’s multimeter.
These include a kickstand, hanging magnet, hanging strap, flashlight, high-resolution LCD, and backlights. How each feature contributes to simplifying our work is explained below:
- While taking the readings on a flat surface or a lab desk, you can instantly flip out the backside stand and place the multimeter in an upright position. In this way, one can instantly take readings without having to bend down to see every other measurement.
- A magnetic hanger lets the user mount the multimeter unit on any metallic surface, like a circuit board, for hands-free operation. By hanging the unit along a belt with its mounting strap, one can move around different places. Thus, there is no risk of misplacing the unit.
- A built-in flashlight lowers the electrician’s burden of carrying a separate headlamp while troubleshooting in dark areas.
- Lastly, a high-resolution LCD with a good display count increases screen visibility. The selected unit must have an LCD backlight that glows on the display. That makes the multimeter eligible to be used at night.
Functions:
How advanced a multimeter unit is is directly related to how many advanced features it has. So, make sure the unit you are going to spend money on has auto/manual ranging modes, TRMS, min/max measurement capability, data hold, and an auto-shutoff function.
A brief summary of these functions is given below:
- Beginners and professionals must operate the multimeter unit in auto and manual ranging modes, respectively. Where the auto-ranging mode omits the need to adjust the range for every new reading, manual ranging is preferable for quick analysis. So, select a unit that has both of the above-mentioned functions or the one that best suits your expertise.
- The absence of the TRMS feature and min/max function limits the multimeter’s use to linear signal analysis. Thus, neither one can play with the varying signals nor can one estimate fluctuations by recording the signal’s highs and lows. So, make sure your selected unit has both of these features.
- The data hold feature helps freeze the measured value. This feature allows users to take notes even after disconnecting the probes from the circuit. Additionally, if you are one of those electricians who forgets to shut off the unit after completing the job, then go for a device. With its auto-shutoff feature that will automatically turn off the unit to help the battery last longer!
Safety:
A safe-to-use multimeter with certifications by international organizations ensures the safety of the user. So, always go for highly certified multimeters.
In addition to these certifications, the best multimeter for an electrician must also have good overload protection, drop protection, non-contact voltage detection, and live line testing capability.
Let’s discuss each function briefly.
- Each circuit is suitable for measuring a specific current value, and any excessive current above that value leads to multimeter failure. To protect both the unit and the user from any misadventure, the unit must have two fuses at the input side of circuits that save the unit in case of overloading by quickly tripping off.
- For electricians who work at high altitudes and in tough working conditions, select a unit that can withstand jobsite blows and absorb high altitude drop impacts without breaking down.
- Four prominent ratings when it comes to multimeter safety start from CAT I until CAT IV, which act as a basis for the usage of multimeters in low- to high-power applications. If the unit you are going to buy has any such rating, that’ll be a plus!
The unit you spend money on must come with a good warranty. Where it gives us peace of mind that our money is being well spent, the unit would be more reliable. Along with that, the battery must also last long enough to avoid frequent replacement.
Although you are planning to buy the best electrician’s multimeter, do check what other purposes it can serve. There are units on the market that can cover a wide range of applications. Thus omitting the need to buy a separate product for individual purposes.
FAQs:
Is a clamp meter better than a multimeter for electricians?
The only benefit of the clamp meter is its capability to measure high currents in comparison with the multimeter unit. However, with much better resolution, features, and advanced design tools, the multimeter clearly beats the clamp meter in most areas. So, without a second thought, a multimeter is way better than a clamp meter for electricians.
How much does an electrician’s multimeter cost?
An average multimeter that can do all the jobs of an electrician comes at a cost of 150 dollars.However, the more you spend money on it, the more advanced you can get!
Which Fluke meter would be best for electricians?
Nearly all fluke meters will perform best for electricians. But if someone wants to enjoy all the advanced features at a low price, the Fluke 287 would be the best Fluke multimeter for electricians.
Will the NCV detection feature help electricians?
Electricians often have to test circuit breakers, switches, and high-power cables, and they deal with high-voltage sources. So, having an NCV detector not only makes their work safe but quick as well.
What is the best multimeter for electricians?
Without any doubt, the Klein MM700 can be considered one of the best multimeters for electricians. Consider buying the MM700 as a one-time investment, as this single product would last a lifetime and would perform all basic to advanced tasks.
Final Verdict:
Here is the list of the top 8 best multimeters for electricians.
Without a proper tool, electricians are limited in their ability to perform troubleshooting in the best possible way. Thus, buying the right equipment should be your first task.
We’ve listed these 8 products that would suit the needs of beginners to expert-level electricians. So, depending on your needs, you can select any unit that lies within your budget.
Still, I would suggest you go with the Klein MM700 if you want each and every feature in a single unit, and that too at a pretty reasonable price. Extech EX 365 is also another good option to go with.
If you haven’t properly read our buyer’s guide, I would recommend you go through it, as it’ll clear up your doubts about what you should look for in a multimeter before finalizing any product.
Happy Testing!