Best Digital Multimeters of 2023 – Review Geek – News Block

DIYers and professional electricians use multimeters for different purposes. Also known as a voltmeter or multitester, a multimeter comes in two types: analog and digital. Both can be used to measure electricity, voltage (AC/DC), resistance, conductance, inductance, capacitance, and much more.

In this roundup, we’re focusing on digital multimeters, those handy multitesters with digital LCD displays. Here you will find five of the best digital multimeters for various uses. Whether you’re a professional electrician or a DIYer, these handpicked voltmeters are a must have as part of your essential tool kit.

What to look for in a digital multimeter

Consider the following qualities before spending money on a digital multimeter, so you can avoid buying a subpar measurement tool.

• Aim: How and where you plan to use a digital multitester should be factored into your purchasing decision. For example, if you plan to use a multitester for your car, a DC multimeter is the way to go. If you plan to use it professionally, get one that is robust, tough, and shockproof.
• Accuracy: Speaking of accuracy, it’s one of the most important factors to consider when choosing multimeters in general. This is because small variations in readings can damage circuitry and cause major problems. +/- 1 percent accuracy is standard, less is better.
• Show: A digital multimeter is digital because of how it displays readings. Therefore, the display of a multimeter is of paramount importance. You want it to be big enough to read, with legible letters and digits, and a backlit display for use at night or in low-light conditions.
• Safety ratings: Category Safety (CAT) ratings (CAT II, ​​CAT III, or CAT IV) are one of the most categorical ways to determine the multimeter’s safety. CAT ratings can be found near the input jacks of a multimeter. The Fluke Digital Multimeter Safety Guide breaks it all down.

Best Overall: Crenova MS8233D Digital Multimeter

Considering the aforementioned factors and more, the Crenova MS8233D digital multimeter is one of the best digital multimeters money can buy. It is one of several useful tools for both beginners and professionals. Accurate up to 99.9 percent, the Crenova 600 Volt AC/DC Digital Multimeter offers reliable readings with overload protection across all ranges. It has a 3.5-digit backlit LCD display for reading values.

It has a 3/sec update rate and a data hold function that temporarily stores your last reading. Its automatic shutdown function activates after a period of inactivity. It has a function switch as well as a central rotary switch/knob. It features a kickstand/stand, test lead holders and comes with an insulated shockproof rubber boot. It measures 5.5 x 2.8 x 1.6 inches and weighs 1.21 pounds. It is compact enough to fit in the palm of your hands and can be used at home, school, etc.

Best Budget: Etekcity MSR-R500 Digital Multimeter

If you’re a hobbyist who plans to use a digital multimeter only occasionally for minor projects and troubleshooting, it makes sense not to spend too much on a multimeter. In that case, you’d be better off with a budget option like the Etekcity MSR-R500 Digital Multimeter. It can be used to measure current (DC), voltage (AC/DC), and resistance, as well as testing continuity (with a continuity buzzer), transistors, and diodes.

It has a backlit display that supports readings from 3.5 digits to 1999 counts with low battery indication and square wave output. It also has a 3/sec sample rate with data hold function. It is IEC and CAT rated with dual fuses (for overload protection on all ranges) and an insulated anti-wear rubber boot. It also comes with a fold-out kickstand for hands-free use. It has a rotary switch and a function switch. It measures 5.9 x 2.9 x 1.4 inches and weighs eight ounces.

Best Premium: Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter

On the other hand, if you prefer premium items and don’t mind the price tags, then the Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter might be the one for you. Aside from the price, it is one of the best digital multimeters. This 9-volt true RMS multimeter measures resistance, continuity, frequency, and capacitance with an accuracy of +/- 0.5 percent. Its backlit LED readout supports a 3.5-digit display.

It has a built-in VoltAlert feature for non-contact AC voltage detection. In addition, its Auto-V/Loz (auto voltage/low input impedance) mode helps prevent false readings due to ghost voltage. This makes it ideal for electricians and commercial purposes. Rated CAT III to 600 volts, it comes with overload protection on all ranges, insulated rubber boots, and an optional suspension mount/magnetic mount. It also has a battery life of up to 400 hours.

Best Complete Kit: Klein Tools MM320KIT Digital Multimeter

So what if you’re a DIYer stuck between buying a “cheap” digital multitester and an “expensive” one? Well, in that case, the Klein Tools MM320KIT Digital Multimeter may be the perfect middle ground. This powerful handheld digital multimeter can measure up to 600 volts of AC/DC voltage, 10 amps of DC current, and 2 ohms of resistance. It can also test batteries, diodes and continuity and can automatically shut down. It also has non-contact voltage sensing capabilities.

This complete tool kit includes the Klein Tools MM320 Digital Multimeter, NCVT-3P Dual Range Non-Contact Voltage Tester with Flashlight, ET-45 Quad Mode Voltage Tester (and test lead holder with custom space for test-style outlets), and the RT210 Receptacle Tester, among others. The Klein Tools MM320 is CAT III rated, double fused, has a kickstand, insulated rubber housing, a 3.5-digit LCD display, and data hold functionality, among others.

Best Large Display: KAIWEETS B09GF2FZVY Digital Multimeter

As mentioned above, digital multimeters rely on their displays. Therefore, if screen size is an important factor for you, we recommend the KAIWEETS B09GF2FZVY Digital Multimeter. It is one of the best digital multitesters with a large enough screen. It actually looks and feels like a smartphone with lots of fancy bells and whistles. Automatically measures voltage, resistance, capacitance, and continuity, among others, with high-resolution readings.

It has a generous backlit display that supports 10,000 counts, has data hold functionality, low battery indication, and auto power off capabilities. This true RMS digital multimeter has an auto function switch with auto and manual range support. It also features a non-contact voltage (NCV) sensor, a flashlight, and an insulated shockproof housing. It is ideal for industrial, vehicle and household electrical testing.