Everybody wishes to have the most advanced multimeter units in their hands to play with. But the more advanced a unit is, the more expensive it’ll get! Everybody wishes to have the most advanced multimeter units in their hands to play with. But the more advanced a unit is, the more expensive it’ll get!
Most of the time, our limited budget doesn’t let us buy things we want to have. But that’s not the case with a multimeter. One can get a highly advanced multimeter equipped with all the necessary features at a very minimal price.
To help you get your dream product, I have compiled a list of the 8 best multimeters under $100. Do note that a low price doesn’t mean the product is faulty. In fact, highly reputable brands sell multimeters for less than $100.
But finding the right product requires a lot of research and consumes a lot of time that nobody likes to spend on it. That’s where our efforts come into play!
We have done an in-depth analysis of these products and briefly explained their ins and outs to make the choice simpler for you. Lastly, a fully explained buyer’s guide is presented that’ll improve your understanding of what features to look for in a multimeter.
After going through the article, you’ll have enough knowledge to choose a product on your own. So, let’s start!
Contents
Top 8 Multimeters Under 100$
KAIWEETS HT118A Multimeter
| What it has | What does it lack? |
| Safe NCV or live line detection Cat III and CAT-IV safety ratings CR and RoHS-certified. Drop Protection Overload fused input protection True RMS Built-in flashlight Built-in kickstand Large backlit LCD Auto/Manual ranging Data Hold Auto shutoff | No magnetic holder No carrying pouch |
Measurements:
One can measure ac/dc voltage, ac/dc current, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and resistance with this digital multimeter. Continuity, diode, and transistor checks can also be performed using the Kaiwits multimeter, but it fails to check current polarity.
Design:
A nicely designed built-in kickstand keeps the multimeter stable while using it on a rough surface. Kaiwits has integrated a flashlight on the backside of this multimeter, which extends its use to dimly lit or dark areas. Thus, there is no need to take a separate flashlight with you for night work.
Although you won’t get any magnetic holders with this unit, on the back of the multimeter, there is a separate slot to install them. So, you’ll have more flexibility to enjoy this feature by ordering the holder separately. Additionally, Kaiwits doesn’t come with a carry pouch, so you’ll have to adjust the unit in your tool kit in order to move it around different locations on the job site.
However, the readings are easy to read on the 6000-count, 2.9-inch high-resolution LCD display, and with the addition of backlights, KaiWEETS lightens up the screen while operating the unit in areas with no light. Lastly, there is a bar graph at the bottom of the LCD to give the user an analog touch.
Functions:
This unit can operate in both auto and manual ranging modes. So select the one that best suits your requirements and experience. There is a data hold button on the front side that can be used to save any displayed value that can be noted later.
Being a true RMS multimeter, you can analyze non-linear signals using this unit, like those of speed drives. To better analyze the fluctuating signals, there is a min/max function. Using this, you can determine the minimum and maximum voltage that a given signal has to better interpret the fluctuations.
Lastly, the built-in auto-off function will put the unit into sleep mode after staying functionless for a few minutes!
Safety:
With the integration of an anti-burn PTC thermistor and dual ceramic fuses that provide input protection on both circuits, the unit won’t burn out in the event of overloading.
Thanks to the sturdy, silicone protective outer casing, this unit can bear all kinds of wear and tear and absorb the impact as a result of an accidental fall.
“Safety First” is the slogan of KaiWEETS, and it has IEC CAT III up to 1000V and CAT IV up to 600V safety ratings. Additionally, it is certified by CE and RoHS. So, it is safe enough to use in any area, irrespective of how high or low the power is. The high-end safety is one of the areas where it beats other best multimeters under $100.
By placing the NCV detector probe near the sockets and terminals, the multimeter will notify you about the presence of voltage. Most of the highly advanced multimeters also lack this feature.
Live-line testing is also possible with this unit. Whenever the unit detects a live wire, the screen changes to red, and the alarm light starts blinking with the sound of the buzzer!
Uses:
Kaiwits has a wide range of applications, including car repair, home circuit fault diagnosis, industrial wiring inspection, electrician work, and home appliance repair.
Pros
- high measurement accuracy.
- Excellent quality.
- suitable for beginners.
- Extremely cheap.
- Impressive performance.
- simple to use.
Cons
- difficult fuse replacement process.
- Leads aren’t of high quality.
2. Extech EX330 Multimeter
| What it has | What does it lack? |
| NCV detection or live line testing CAT II and CAT III safety ratings Drop Protection Overload fused input protection REL Mode Built-in kickstand Large backlit LCD Data Hold Auto shutoff Auto/Manual ranging | Not True, RMS No magnetic hanger No flashlight. |
Measurements:
The Extech Ex330 is another unit that comes in at a pretty low price without compromising on the measurement features. It is capable of measuring AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, frequency, capacitance, resistance, and temperature.
Additionally, one can also perform continuity and diode checks using this multimeter. However, two areas where this unit fails to prove its reliability include the transistor check and polarity identification.
Design:
The tilting bail located on the backside of the multimeter allows the user to work on the bench single-handed. But like other units, it also isn’t equipped with a magnetic hanger or mounting strap. So you won’t be able to hang the magnet for hands-free operation. There is no built-in flashlight, so take a headlamp or separate flashlight while working in dark places.
The Extech EX330 has an intuitive display with a 4000-pixel screen resolution. Its wide display makes the digits visible even from a distance. But it doesn’t incorporate any backlight, so you’ll have difficulty taking measurements in dimly lit areas.
Functions:
The Extech EX 330 can operate in both auto and manual ranging modes, so you can use any mode that best suits your requirements. Moreover, by freezing any value using the hold function, you can review and note it later. This feature will be helpful when you aren’t in an appropriate position to see the readings, especially in dark places, including the attic and roof space!
Using the REL button, you can set a certain value as a reference, and the meter will measure the rest of the data, and the difference will be displayed as a + or – of the relative value. This feature is missing from most of the best multimeters under $100 on our list.
This isn’t a true RMS multimeter, and neither can you analyze the min/max value of a non-linear signal. So, if you want to play with speed drives, this isn’t the multimeter you should go for. However, for better battery preservation, the auto power-off feature will turn off the unit after 15 minutes of inactivity.
Safety:
Both the 10A and milliamp circuits of Ex330 have fuses that protect the unit in case of overloading. But bear in mind that these aren’t HRC fuses, hence they are less reliable. Additional blast protection is provided by the deep grooving inside the casing, which also prevents the ingress of moisture to a degree.
It uses tough plastic in its construction, which makes it strong enough to provide good impact resistance in the event of an accidental drop. The rubber holster of the Ex330 absorbs any kind of shock and abuse at the workplace. So, it isn’t the type of unit that deteriorates in a short time!
Ex330 is safety rated to CATIII up to 600V and CATII up to 1000V. So, you can use the unit in high-power areas of residential buildings but not for three-phase systems.
It’s the NCV detector that stands out in the Extech EX330 in comparison with other multimeters. While detecting the voltage in a source, it lights up the LED and makes a loud buzzer. This unit also supports live-line testing. By inserting the test lead into the slots, one can easily measure the voltage.
Uses:
Extech Ex330 is designed to be used for fault diagnosis in cars, computers, household wiring, and appliances. Additionally, it will also fulfill the requirements of weekend DIY enthusiasts and electricians.
Pros
- Compact size.
- excellent build quality.
- Voltage detection capability
- High-end probes.
- nicely written instructions.
- Reasonable price.
Cons
- not highly accurate.
- slow response time.
- Not for nighttime use.
3. Crenova MS8233D Multimeter
| What it has | What does it lack? |
| Built-in kickstand Carrying pouch availability Clear backlit LCD Auto/Manual-ranging Data Hold Ture RMS Auto Shut Off Overload fused input protection Drop Protection IEC61010-1 and CATII Safety Rated | No hanging magnet No magnetic straps No built-in flashlight No NCV or live-line testing |
Measurements:
The Crenova MS8233D is a beginner-friendly multimeter that is capable of measuring AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, frequency, and resistance. Additionally, one can also perform a continuity check, diode check, and transistor check using this multimeter unit. However, you cannot measure capacitance and temperature using the MS8233D multimeter, nor can you perform a polarity check or identification.
Design:
With the built-in foldable stand, you can easily prop up the multimeter stably for hand-free use. Crenova provides a small carrying pouch to hold the multimeter and other accessories. It improves the handling of the multimeter unit.
With 2000 display counts, this unit doesn’t have a very high-resolution LCD but a standard one that has a fair display. But it is equipped with a backlight that helps in showing clear results in dark areas, making the multimeter usable at night.
However, three things that you’ll miss with this unit include the hanging magnet, mounting strap, and flashlight. So, neither can you hang the unit on the metal surface to do your job singlehandedly, nor can you use the unit at night without having a separate flashlight in your hand.
Functions:
With both auto and manual ranging modes, you can set the unit as desired. If you are just starting out and don’t have experience using a multimeter, always operate it in auto-ranging mode for better accuracy. Only professionals are advised to use a manual range for quick analysis.
You can lock any reading on the screen by pressing the ‘Hold’ button. The recorded value can be retrieved later for future use. This feature is handy in scenarios where the worker isn’t in a position to note down an important measurement!
You can play with speed drives and other non-linear signals with the help of this true RMS multimeter. But you won’t be able to analyze the upper and lower limits of a fluctuating signal. Thus, it is due to the unit’s limitation in storing the maximum value of the function. However, there are a few best multimeters under $100 in the list that offer this feature of filtering out both highs and lows of a signal.
For better battery conservation, this unit has auto-off functionality that puts the unit into sleep mode after sitting idle for a few minutes.
Safety:
The built-in double fuses present in the circuit for input protection can effectively save the multimeter in case of measured parameter exceeding the maximum limit. This not only protects the unit from burning out but enhances its life as well.
With an elegant design and robust outer casing, this unit won’t deteriorate due to wear and tear at the workplace. Additionally, its durable rubber hostler will not only absorb the impact of an accidental drop but also save the user from electric shock. Thus, just like the other best multimeters under $100 in the list, it also provides security for both the user and the unit itself.
Crenova MS8233D is backed by IEC 61010-1 and CAT II up to 600V safety ratings. This rating acts as a seal that the multimeter is safe to use and won’t explode in your hand. However, without a non-contact voltage detector, you cannot use this unit for voltage detection in any socket, nor will you be able to do live line testing using the MS8233D.
Uses:
Talking about its application, you can use the Crenova MS8233D for troubleshooting school wiring, instrument testing in the laboratory, wiring testing in offices, weekend experiments at home, and professional electrician work at your shop. But we won’t recommend using it for testing three-phase systems or high-power areas.
Pros
- responsive customer support.
- Straightforward operation.
- understandable user manual.
- easy to carry around.
- Great value at a low price.
- sturdy and long-lasting.
- High-end safety.
Cons
- Limited warranty.
- small testing leads.
4. Proster VC99 Multimeter
| What it has | What does it lack? |
| Kickstand availability Carrying pouch availability Overload fused input protection CATII and CATIII certified Drop Protection Auto Shutoff Data Hold Auto/Manual Ranging | No NCV detection or live line testing Not True, RMS No magnetic hanger No LCD backlights or flashlights |
Measurements:
Proster VC99 is highly loved by beginners due to its wide range of measurement capabilities, and that too at a pretty low price. With a proper multimeter, you can measure AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, temperature, frequency, capacitance, and resistance.
Additionally, one can also perform continuity, diode, and transistor checks, and it can detect current polarity as well. Thus, there is nothing this multimeter can’t measure.
Design:
The Proster multimeter has a built-in stand that supports the unit for hands-free operation. Moreover, in its packaging, you’ll see a nice-looking carry bag to easily handle this portable multimeter unit, so you won’t have to adjust it in your tool kit.
Definitely, you’ll praise its high-end resolution with a 6000-count LCD display and a wide display. But unfortunately, the screen lacks backlights. So, it’ll be of nearly no use for nighttime testing. Moreover, there is a responsive analog bar graph that gives an analog feel by showing the value being measured.
One thing to keep in mind is that there is no magnetic hanger or mounting strap with this unit, so you’ll have to hold the unit in your hand, and it’ll be difficult to take readings single-handedly.
Functions:
For quick analysis, professionals can use the multimeter in manual ranging mode. However, beginners must always use auto-ranging mode for more accurate results. As one can easily swap between these two modes with a single button press. So, it’ll be fun using it.
With its data hold feature, you’ll have the flexibility to save any reading that is difficult to memorize or note. But without a true RMS multimeter, one can’t analyze the non-linear signals with great accuracy. Still, its Max/Min function will help you check how much the value fluctuates with time.
Additionally, by setting the unit to relative mode, the multimeter will display the exact difference between the already stored measurement and the measured value. Lastly, after 15 minutes of sitting idle, the unit will be automatically turned off.
Safety:
There are two glass fuses that protect the current input circuits of 10 A and 600 A.But they aren’t as efficient as HRC-type fuses, so replace them with new ones for better protection.
Thanks to the protective rubber sleeve that protects the unit from heavy knocks and bumps, its sturdy casing has the ability to absorb the impact of a drop from a small height. So, expect the unit to remain your testing partner for years to come!
CV99 has safety ratings of CAT-II up to 1000V and CAT-III up to 600V, which guarantees that the product is safe to use for indoor industrial and residential purposes.
But there is no non-contact voltage detector in this unit, and neither can you do live line testing. Thus, this might not be the right product for home testing.
Uses:
This is a low-budget product, and in spite of having a CAT-III rating, we would advise you to use the unit for low-energy work, including circuit designing, battery testing, and home appliance troubleshooting. Thus, the Proteus VC99 is ideal for beginners, students, electronics technicians, and DIYers.
Pros
- Excellent safety and security.
- robust and long-lasting structure.
- good-quality test leads.
- Less expensive.
- wide range of features.
- portable and easy to move.
Cons
- Not suitable for night operations.
- can’t detect voltage.
5. Klein MM400 Multimeter
| What it has | What does it lack? |
| Built-in Kickstand. Auto/Manual Ranging CAT-III safety rated. Built-in Kickstand ANSI Drop Protection overload fused input protection. Bright backlit LCD Auto shutoff Data Hold | No NCV detector or live line testing No true RMS No magnetic hanger No built-in flashlight |
Measurements:
The Klein MM400 has the capability to analyze AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, frequency, capacitance, resistance, and temperature. One can also perform continuity and diode checks using this multimeter. However, we cannot check transistors or detect current polarity using the Klein MM400 multimeter. So, do take
Design:
The dial of the MM400 is meaty and yet easy to turn with one-handed operation. The buttons are large, simple, and rubbery. One can change the batteries easily in a separate compartment. Lead wires are of the supple kind. Along with that, this unit has a sturdy kickstand that keeps the multimeter in an upright position while working on a flat surface or bench.
Although Klein doesn’t ship the carrying case with the unit, you can buy it separately at a very low price. It’ll be handy for moving the multimeter to different locations at work.
The display on its LCD isn’t of high resolution but fairly standard, having 4000 counts. One can easily read it in broad daylight, and its backlight helps light up the display in dimly lit areas. However, you won’t see any magnetic hangers or flashlights with the MM400, so neither can you mount the unit for hands-free operation nor can you operate it during the night.
Functions:
By pressing the “Range” button, you can easily switch between auto and manual ranging modes. Klein MM400 allows the user to hold the value when one doesn’t have a pen and paper in hand. You can retrieve and write down the value later.
This is an average RMS multimeter that can’t analyze the non-linear signal properly. But with the addition of the Max/Min function, you can see the discrepancies in the fluctuating signal by reading its high and low values.
Just like other units on the list, the Klein MM400 also went off after a few minutes of inactivity. This feature not only preserves the battery but also increases its life span. So, if you also forget to shut off the multimeter, this feature would be very handy for you!
Safety:
To protect the circuit in case of overloading, its ci500 mA.rcuit integrates two high-quality HRC fuses. One is for the high 10A cand theuit and other for 500mA. This added input protection prolongs the life of the AM400.
Being made up of high-strength plastic material, the MM400 multimeter has a rubber holster on its outer casing that has ANSI certification to absorb the impact of a 1-meter drop. Additionally, the sturdy and durable casing handles all kinds of abuse at the workplace. So expect the unit to last longer!
This multimeter unit is backed by a CAT-III safety rating up to 600 V, which guarantees the high strength and quality of the circuit board of the unit. so it won’t explode in your hands. However, unlike the Ex330 multimeter, this unit isn’t equipped with an NCV detector, and you won’t be able to do live line testing with it.
Uses:
With high category safety ratings, you can use this multimeter in residential, commercial, and light industrial locations. But keep it away from high-power areas, especially three-phase systems.
Pros
- Trusted brand.
- Good visibility.
- Affordable price.
- easy-to-operate interface.
- reliable testing leads.
- Highly secure.
Cons
- can’t perform nonlinear analysis.
- short battery life.
6. Tekpower Mastech MS8268 Multimeter
| What it has | What does it lack? |
| Jack’s input warning Drop Protection Overload fused input protection Built-in Kickstand Blue and white backlit LCD Auto Shutoff Data Hold Auto/Manual Ranging | No safety ratings no carrying pouch, No built-in flashlight No magnetic hanger No true RMS |
Measurements:
This multimeter unit can measure the AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, frequency, capacitance, and resistance. One can also check current polarity and perform continuity, diode, and transistor checks using the MS8268 multimeter. However, you won’t be able to measure temperature with this multimeter unit.
Design:
The built-in kickstand will give you the flexibility to take readings quickly by placing the multimeter in an upright position. But there is a list of design elements that are missing in this unit.
Tekpower doesn’t ship a carrying pouch or flashlight with this unit, so you’ll have to place the unit in your toolbox, and a separate flashlight will be needed for using the multimeter at night. Additionally, you won’t enjoy hands-free operation with this unit due to the lack of a magnetic strap or hanging magnet.
There is an addition of blue and white backlight that’ll be handy for brightening up the screen while operating the multimeter in dark areas. And thanks to the 4000 display counts and a refresh rate of 3 times per second, readings will be clearly visible.
Functions:
You can operate the unit in both auto and manual ranging modes, and you can shift between these two modes easily. The auto-ranging will be very user-friendly for beginners with no experience as it automatically adjusts the range for measuring value, while for quick experiments, professionals can use it in manual ranging mode!
While analyzing circuits in different locations, it is not possible for us to note down or memorize any useful information. To overcome this problem, there is a data hold feature in this unit that’ll save the measurement for you, which can be noted later. Additionally, you’ll love the relative mode of MS8268. In this mode, you can set one value as a reference and see the rest of the measured data added or subtracted from that value.
This is an additional feature that you won’t see in nearly all multimeters, in which when the user puts the jack in the wrong socket, the unit notifies the right socket to insert the jack by lighting up an LED and making a loud buzzer.
For people who forget to turn off the unit after completing their job, Mastech’s auto-shutoff feature will put the unit into sleep mode after sitting idle for 15 minutes.
However, keep in mind that it isn’t a true RMS multimeter, so analyzing non-linear circuits won’t be possible with this unit. Additionally, with no min/max values, you can’t identify the trend of fluctuating signals.
Safety:
A protective input ceramic fuse is integrated on the 10A main current circuit, while a resettable temperature coefficient PTC fuse protects the MS8268’s milliamps circuit. So, your multimeter won’t burn out in the event of overloading.
Thanks to the sturdy outer casing and rubber boot, MS8368 can bear any kind of abuse at the jobsite. The additional rubber holster will provide additional protection against accidental drop impacts. So, this isn’t the type of product that breaks into pieces with one fall!
Unfortunately, there is no protection on the main terminal jack input, which nullifies Mastech’s claims of having good safety ratings. So, our recommendation is to limit the use of MS8268 to only low-energy circuits.
Lastly, if you intend to use it for non-contact voltage detection or live line testing, then, unfortunately, you won’t have this flexibility in MS8268.
Uses:
Due to its low budget, the Mastech MS8268 makes our list of the best multimeters under $100. But that doesn’t limit its use to a few areas. Despite being cheap, it fulfills all the basic requirements of electricians, hobbyists, DIY enthusiasts, and household troubleshooters. Last but not least, you can also test your computer’s power supplies and do HVAC troubleshooting using MS8268.
Pros
- Inexpensive.
- high-quality testing leads.
- Battery runtime is good.
- high visibility with backlights.
- Rugged casing.
- easy to hold in hand.
Cons
- no clear instructions.
- No HRC fuses
- small capacitance measurement range.
7. Triplett 1101-B Multimeter
| What it has | What does it lack? |
| Built-in kickstand Bright backlit LCD Data Hold Auto shutoff Drop Protection CATII Safety Rated NCV or live line testing | No hanging magnet No carrying pouch No built-in flashlight No true RMS No auto-ranging No overload fused input protection |
Measurements:
The Triplett multimeter isn’t a high-end multimeter and can only measure AC/DC voltage, DC current, and temperature. Additionally, you can do diode, transistor, and continuity checks using a Triplett digital multimeter. A few downsides of this unit are that you cannot measure capacitance and frequency, nor can you identify polarity, using this multimeter unit.
Design:
This unit is equipped with a back stand to place the multimeter in an upright position while using it on the front surface. However, a few users have complained that it isn’t that sturdy and keeps falling every now and then.
With exactly the same display count as Crenova, the Triplett multimeter also has a standard resolution. Although its display is fair, being equipped with a backlight extends its use in dark rooms. That gives this unit an edge over high-resolution multimeters with no LCD backlights.
This unit doesn’t come with a hanging magnet, carrying pouch, or flashlight. So, you’ll have to hold it in your hand while taking readings, store it in your tool kit, and take a flashlight with you while going for troubleshooting in dark places.
Functions:
With 19 different ranges for multiple parameters, you can measure readings with great accuracy. But this multimeter doesn’t have an auto-ranging feature. So, you’ll have to select the range for every different reading.
By pressing the ‘Hold’ key, that locks the value shown on the LCD, and you’ll see a ‘DH’ sign that verifies that the multimeter is currently storing a value. You can note down the value later. By pressing the hold button twice, you can go back to normal display updating mode.
The addition of an auto-power-off feature that shuts off the multimeter after a few minutes of inactivity will help maximize the battery life.
But this isn’t a true RMS multimeter, so if you often have to play with non-linear signals, this isn’t the type of unit you should go for. Additionally, with no option to check the min/max value of fluctuating signals, you can’t analyze them using a Triplett digital multimeter.
Safety:
Triplett doesn’t give any specs on its fuses, but the multimeter equips the fuses that protect it from damage in case of overloading. This is a very user-friendly multimeter, thanks to its ergonomic design. Its rubberized boot provides good impact resistance to protect the unit after slipping from your hand and hitting the ground.
The Triplett multimeter is certified to have industry-standard CAT II safety ratings that provide strong resistance to any kind of circuit damage in the case of transient overvoltages.
The Triplett multimeter is equipped with a non-contact voltage detector that can sense the voltage from a distance, which will be handy while working with fault diagnosis on high-power wires.
Uses:
Triplett multimeter can be used for a broad range of applications including the fault diagnosis in the security, home theatre and household appliances, HVAC installations, electronics lab work and weekend experiments. Thus, it is best suited for any kind of commercial and residential applications.
Pros
- Double Insulation.
- good shock absorption.
- Excellent warranty.
- good customer support.
- compact and user-friendly.
- Very inexpensive.
- It fits well in a pocket.
Cons
- Slow response.
- not suitable for professional use.
8. Etekcity MSR-C600 Multimeter
| What it has | What does it lack? |
| Carrying pouch availability Auto/manual-ranging Data Hold Auto shut off Drop protection CATII and CATIII Safety Rated | No backlit LCD No built-in kickstand No built-in flashlight No hanging magnet No mounting straps No true RMS No NCV or live-line testing No overload fused input protection |
Measurements:
The Etekcity digital multimeter can measure AC/DC voltage, resistance, and AC current with a clamp jaw capacity of 28mm. Additionally, you can also perform continuity and diode checks and identify polarity with this clamp meter.
There are many basic features that this unit can’t measure, including the DC current, temperature, frequency, and capacitance. You can’t test transistors as well using an Etekcity clamp meter. However, one cannot expect a multimeter under $50 to have all advanced functions.
Design:
Just like most clamp meters, there is no kickstand, hanging magnet, mounting strap, or flashlight with this unit. So you’ll have to hold it in your hand every time you take the reading. Also, take a headlamp with you to do troubleshooting in dimly lit areas.
For those who have to check circuits at multiple places, Etekcity ships a nicely designed carrying pouch to move it around the house easily. With only 2000 display counts, the Etekcity clamp meter doesn’t have very high resolution.
Additionally, there are no backlights, so you’ll have difficulty noting readings in the dark.
Functions:
This unit operates in both auto and manual ranging modes, so you can choose the one that best matches your requirements. By pressing the data hold function, you can instantly store any desired reading in the multimeter’s memory, which can be retrieved and used later.
Too many fluctuating signals can’t be analyzed with the Etekcity clamp meter as it isn’t a true RMS device, and one can only get accurate results while measuring standard AC signals like those from the main supply.
You’ll also have the flexibility to store the maximum value from the measured set of data, which is pretty handy in analyzing abrupt spikes in values.
Etekcity has also integrated an auto-on/off feature in this unit that shuts off the unit when not in use for better utilization of battery power.
Safety:
The Etekcity clamp meter is pretty tough to handle all kinds of wear and tear. But don’t use the MSR-C600 in a very harsh environment. It may not withstand regular impacts, so don’t drop it quite often.
This clamp meter has CATII and CATIII safety ratings, which guarantee that it is safe to use. That builds users trust in it. However, with no non-contact voltage detector, you can’t check the presence of voltage in a wire without connecting probes to it.
Uses:
The Etekcity MSR-C600 is best suited for low-power appliances, including sockets, fuses, switches, and batteries. But you can’t use it to measure the current draw of a car battery or any other DC system, as it can’t measure the DC current. You can also use Etekcity’s safe and sound digital clamp multimeter for household and residential building electricity maintenance.
Pros
- Professional look.
- good jaw size.
- Wide display.
- Excellent runtime battery.
- Lifetime warranty.
- lightweight and flexible.
- extremely low price.
Cons
- very limited functions.
- low resolution with less visibility.
- can’t be used singlehandedly.
- can’t measure DC current.
What to look for before buying the best multimeters under $100
Nearly every company manufactures cost-effective multimeters for people with a very tight budget. But the lower cost doesn’t mean low quality.
Their performance is as good as that of any high-priced meter, but they lack many advanced functions. So, before finalizing one of the best multimeters under $100, you should keep into consideration certain factors that serve as the basis for differentiating good low-priced multimeters from the bad ones.
Every multimeter unit should be analyzed in five different areas, including the design, measurements, functions, safety, and area of applications. In this buyers guide, we’ll also deep dive into these factors that’ll help you filter out the best product on the market.
Let’s go into their details one by one:
Measurements:
Without any doubt, low-priced multimeters will definitely be very limited in their functions. But they should be capable enough to measure the basic parameters, including the AC/DC current, AC/DC voltage, temperature, resistance, capacitance, and frequency. Additionally, testing diodes and verifying continuity should also be in them.
Design:
One can’t expect a low-priced multimeter to have all the advanced design elements that allow technicians to do their job easily. But the more elements that a unit incorporates, the more user-friendly it’ll be. So, always go for a unit that provides greater flexibility.
How these elements help make our job easier is briefly explained below:
- The kickstand is a very handy element for electricians in their lab work. By flipping it out on any desk or surface, you can place the unit in an upright position. That’ll greatly cut down on the time you spend taking and noting the measurements. So, a 20-minute job can be done in 10 minutes.
- Magnetic hangers and straps are another two major design elements that act as a third hand for technicians. That is pretty handy while operating the unit in a standing position. By connecting the magnetic hanger to a metal surface or hanging the unit alongside a belt, one can get the job done singlehandedly.
- LCD resolution shouldn’t be low enough that readings are barely visible. Additionally, the selected unit must also have LCD backlights that’ll brighten up the screen during nighttime or dark area operations. Missing out on these features will limit the unit to day-to-day use only.
- Last but not least, having a built-in flashlight will be a big plus, as it eliminates the need to hold a separate flashlight in your hand throughout the operation.
Functions:
Of course, a $100 meter can’t be compared with highly advanced and expensive Fluke meters that have data logging, infrared, and remote viewing capabilities. But the selected unit should at least be able to perform basic functions. That includes auto/manual ranging mode, TRMS analysis, min/max data recording, on-screen data hold, and shutoff functionality.
If you aren’t aware of how these functions work, we’ve briefly explained them below:
- Operating the unit on auto or manual ranging has its own perks and drawbacks. So, one can’t comment on which one is perfect. Still, beginners who are just getting started should always take measurements in auto-ranging mode. The experienced professional who wants to get their job completed quickly can work with manual ranging mode, as it’s a bit fast.
- For folks like me who have to play with the variable speed drives at their workplace, they must go with a TRMS multimeter. Additionally, to filter out the highs and lows of a specific current signal over a certain time period, the multimeter must have min/max recording capability. Both of these features will lead to highly accurate results.
- In most cases, technicians want to note the measurements after dismantling the circuit when their hands are completely free. Data holding functionality gives them this flexibility. By pressing a single button, you can freeze the measured data on the screen.
- Lastly, if you don’t want your battery to drain out, then go for a unit with auto-shutoff functionality. In case you forget to turn off the unit,
Safety:
Without any doubt, “safety comes first”. So, make sure your selected unit honors this slogan. Being backed by international certifications acts as a guarantee that the product is pretty safe to use. So, choosing a certified product should be the right decision.
Additionally, the low price must not come at the expense of low-quality design and structure. So, make sure the product you are going to spend money on provides the basic safety features, including overload protection, drop protection, non-contact voltage detection, and live line testing functionality. Spending on a unit that gives users shock or tears into the piece in less than a month won’t be justified.
Let’s discuss each function briefly.
- Every circuit can withstand a rated value of current, after which it turns out that it is riskier both for the multimeter and the user who is operating it. To overcome this risk, fuses are installed as input protection that protects the unit from damage in the event of overloading.
- Jobsite blows and abuse deteriorate the multimeter unit after a certain time period. Additionally, frequent drops lead to breakage of the multimeter’s outer casing. This exposes the technicians to an internal circuit that can lead to shock. So, do make sure your selected unit can withstand the workplace harshness and is strong enough to bear the high altitude drops.
- Every multimeter is given one or more safety ratings, starting from CAT I to CAT IV, according to its resistance to higher energy transients. So, choose a unit according to your job needs. Having more than one category rating would be a plus!
Uses:
A less reputable unit that is backed by a good warranty is more reliable than one of the highly reputable brands with no warranty. So, you must choose a unit from the list of the best multimeters under $100 that is backed by a good warranty. Moreover, it must also be equipped with a long-lasting battery with excellent runtime.
Lastly, do keep in mind the purpose for which you are buying the multimeter, and even with a low budget, you’ll be able to find the right product.
FAQs:
Can I buy a multimeter for under $100??
Yes, almost every brand, from local to high-end, like Fluke, has manufactured budget multimeters for people who can’t afford to spend hefty amounts on high-priced multimeters.
Are cheap multimeters accurate?
Most of the cheap multimeters on the market are as accurate as any expensive, advanced multimeter. The only difference is that cheap multimeters lack a lot of advanced features, which may contribute a little to getting highly accurate results with an expensive multimeter. But that difference isn’t big, so you can go for this unit.
Are cheap multimeters safe to use?
If the unit you are going to buy provides good input protection to avoid overloading and is backed by the safety ratings of any category starting from I to IV, then it’ll be safe to use. If it lacks any of this functionality, go for another unit.
Does a $100 multimeter last a long time?
As long as you use the multimeter with great care and follow all guidelines, you can expect the $100 multimeter to last a long time. Just regularly check its battery’s life and fuse condition and replace them if needed.
What is the best multimeter under $100??
Both in terms of price and features, the Kaiwits HT118A Multimeter is the best multimeter under $100 in our list, and it would be one of your best investments.
Final Verdict
Here is a detailed review of the eight best multimeters under $100. All of the selected products serve a different purpose, with a few being multipurpose and able to be used for more than one application.
The ins and outs of these products have been explained in depth for you. Moreover, our buyer’s guide will help make the multimeter selection process easier for you.
You are free to choose any product that you think would best meet your criteria. Still, my recommendation would be to go with the Kaiwits HT118A Multimeter. Despite being low in price, it is capable of performing nearly all advanced functions. In fact, this single product would serve you for years to come.
Still, going through our buyer’s guide section, if you haven’t already, would clear all your doubts about which things to consider before finalizing any product.
Getting your dream product is just one click away!
Happy Testing!