When it comes to choosing the best multimeter for your needs, there are a few things you need to take into account. With so many different models on the market, it can be tough to decide which one is right for you.
No matter how many times you have been an electrician, there is always something new to learn. And even the most experienced among us can benefit from a great multimeter.
So, whether you’re a professional electrician or just a hobbyist, read on for some helpful advice on choosing the best multimeter!
The best multimeter 2022
A multimeter is a valuable tool used to measure multiple electrical values such as current, voltage, resistance, capacitance, and frequency. Whether you are a qualified electrician, an engineer, or a DIYer, a multimeter can be the real game-changer and make all your complicated projects easier and safer.
Here are the reviews of the best multimeters 2022 that you must consider for your electronics-related work.
1) Fluke 117 Multimeter – A Great Digital Multimeter
Fluke is a popular brand known for its expensive multimeters and high accuracy of measurements. Fluke 117 multimeter, despite its high price, is very popular among electricians and engineers. It is an advanced tool designed by electricians.
It provides a variety of beneficial features. Fluke 117 can measure AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, continuity, and frequency.
Its VoltAlert technology lets users detect voltage without any contact with the circuit. The low impedance helps in preventing false readings that may occur due to ghost voltage. Its CAT III safety rating makes it safe for professional workers to use the tool for different jobs.
The large-sized and easy-to-use body helps manage the tool single-handedly, save time and improve the productivity of the user. Professional electricians consider Fluke 117 one of the best multimeters 2022. They believe it is a great investment that one should make to enjoy long-term benefits.
Key features
- Low input impedance to give accurate values
- VoltAlert technology
- True RMS technology
- Rated CAT III
- Compatible with the tool belt and magnetic hanger
- Comes with 1 AAA battery
Pros
- Has a large, clear screen
- Capable of handling commercial jobs safely
- Prevents incorrect readings due to ghost voltage
- 400 hours battery life (without backlight)
Cons
- Costly
2) AstroAI TRMS 6000 Digital Multimeter- A decent multimeter
What makes AstroAI TRMS 6000 one of the best multimeters 2022 is the fact that the tool is under $50 yet offers many premium features that are hard to find in other multimeters of the same price. It offers safety and protection with its explosion-proof ceramic fuse tubes. Due to these tubes, the internal structure of the tool does not burn in case of overload.
Its advanced features allow users to measure almost everything, including resistance, current, continuity, and temperature.
There is a multi-function socket that you can use to measure transistors and capacitors. Its screen is large and displays very clear symbols and measurements. You can turn its blue backlit on when working in a dimly lit area.
When you cannot hold the tool while taking measurements, you can open its built-in stand to place on a secure surface or hang it using its magnet. It requires a 9V 6F22 battery that is included in the package. It is mainly designed for commercial use, but you can use it to diagnose issues in household electronics.
Key features
- Auto-ranging
- Data hold function
- A kickstand and hanging magnet
- Gives low-battery, polarity, and overload induction
- Provides temperature, transistor, diode, continuity, and external current test
- Built-in anti-burn fuse tubes
Pros
- Great value for the price
- True RMS multimeter
- Comes with a 3-year warranty
- The package contains one k-type thermocouple
- Comes with a lithium metal battery
Cons
- No protection against accidental falls
3) Klein Tools MM400 Digital Multimeter
Klein MM400 is an all-in-one tool you can use to measure current, voltage, capacitance, temperature, resistance, and frequency. It has a solid, comparatively small body that is covered with an orange rubber cover.
This covering provides the tool required protection against daily wear and tear. It also prevents damage caused by 1-meter drops. The rubber buttons and dial are smooth, making it convenient to use the tool.
If you’re like most electricians, you probably use a digital multimeter every day. And if you’re like me, you couldn’t imagine life without one.
They make it so easy to troubleshoot electrical problems and figure out what’s wrong. I don’t know how I ever got along without one! 🙂
Its low battery indicator helps in saving time and trouble. It starts beeping when the battery percentage drops. There is the Hold button you can press when you want to hold a measurement and note it down later. The measurement or value will be removed when you press the Hold button again.
Like other multimeters reviewed in the article, you can access the battery compartment located at the back of the tool quite easily. Klein MM400 is suitable for light-industrial and domestic electronic work.
Key features
- Rated CAT III at 600V
- Measures temperature, capacitance, frequency, voltage, and current
- Hold reading function
- Low battery indicator
- In-built stand and screw hook
Pros
- Compact body structure
- Backlit 4000 count LED
- Comes with a thermocouple
- Affordable
- Easy to use and understand even when it comes to advanced functions.
- Has a protective rubber cover
- Can survive a 1-meter drop
Cons
- Does not have a carrying case
- May lag when measuring capacitance
4) Fluke 115 True RMS Multimeter
Here is another product by the Fluke in this list of the best multimeters 2022.
Fluke 115 is a great general-purpose tool used for electronic measurements. It is a less-advanced version of Fluke 117 that we have already reviewed above. It is also less pricy compared to the Fluke 117.
Like Fluke 117, it is also a true RMS device and provides precise measurements of voltage on non-linear loads. It has a large screen that displays clear digits. There is a backlit light that you can turn on or off using its specific button.
It is CAT III rated, so it is safe for beginners as well. It has a built-in stand to allow hands-free operation. It comes with standard black and red test wires. There is a user manual written in multiple languages inside the package.
Though the tool is easy to use, you can read the manual if you want to learn how to operate it correctly.
Key features
- Measures resistance, continuity, frequency, temperature, AC/DC voltage, and current
- CAT III at 600V
- A premium multimeter
- 6000 count resolution screen
- White LED backlit
- Hold value feature
Pros
- Offers single-handed operation
- Has a rugged and reliable body structure
Cons
- Expensive
5) INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
INNOVA 3320 is an auto-ranging multimeter mainly used to check automotive wiring and household appliances. It is an entry-level tool, making it one of the best multimeters for beginners.
It provides many beneficial features that you can use to measure continuity, resistance, voltage, and current. INNOVA 3320 automotive multimeter is UL tested, meaning its safety and sustainability have been tested before making the tool available in the market.
Its auto-ranging feature automatically selects a suitable range for any measurements, which helps in saving time.
It has a color-coded LED used to check household battery conditions fast. The green color indicates the battery is in good condition, yellow means the battery is weak and red means you need to replace the battery.
There is a protective rubber guard around corners to prevent damage caused by accidental falls. You can attack test leads and holders to this guard using this digital multimeter. There is an in-built stand and wrist strap for hands for the experience. The 10 MegOhm input impedance helps in preventing damage to vehicles.
Key features
- 10 MegOhm input impedance
- A single setting resistance function for ac voltage as well as dc voltage.
- Color-coded LED
- Auto-ranging scales
- Protective rubber corner guards
- Auto shut-off feature
- Displays battery status
- Comes with 1 AAA battery
Pros
- Safe for household and automotive use
- Very cost-effective: Affordable price point for a standard digital multimeter.
Cons
- Not suitable for industrial work
6) Klein Tools CL390 Digital Clamp Multimeter
Klein CL390 multimeter is a clamp meter that you can use to clamp the meter to a wire or your tool belt to have a hands-free experience. You can use its magnetic hanger to hang the meter in a secure place that’s compatible with the magnet.
It has a wide reverse contrast LCD, meaning the screen is black and displayed digits are white, which you can use both in dark and lighted areas. It comes with a k-type thermocouple to measure temperature. You can measure NCVT and AC/DC current through its clamp.
There is a smooth plastic dial and four buttons for different functions. Like many of the other ideal multimeters, it also requires AAA batteries that are included in the package. It comes in a carrying bag.
Think about how many times you’ve had to juggle a multimeter, a flashlight, a screwdriver, and a tape measure. It’s not easy, is it?
That’s why I’m so excited about the carrying bag for this multimeter. This bag makes life so much easier! You can just put all of your tools in the bag and go. No more juggling required! Plus, the carrying bag is really roomy, so you can fit everything inside. I highly recommend this product for anyone who does electric work. It really makes life easier!
Key features
- Measures current, voltage, resistance, DC microamps, frequency, and duty cycle
- Performs continuity and diode test
- Non-contact voltage tester
- Reverse contrast LCD
- Data hold ability
- Magnetic hanger
- True RMS technology
Pros
- Comes with a thermocouple probe
- Auto power off preserves battery life
- Great hands-free operation
- Provides you with accurate voltage readings.
Cons
- Beginners may find it tricky
- Lacks protected covering
7) KAIWEETS KM601 Digital Multimeter
This smart device looks like a cell phone due to its modern design and body structure. You can switch between its Smart and Manual Mode with a single touch. The Smart Mode is used to automatically calculate voltage, continuity, and resistance, making it a great digital meter. Ranges are also selected automatically.
It has a large LCD screen that displays different features such as battery percentage, analog bar, fuse prompt, and real-time temperature. This multi-functional device is suitable for both household and industrial work.
KAIWEETS KM601 is CE and RoHS certified, showing why it is one of the top multimeters in 2022. Its sturdy body has a silicon cover around it. This cover protects the tool against damage and daily wear and tear.
Key features
- RMS 6000 counts digital screen
- Measures current, voltage, capacitance, resistance, and frequency
- Low battery, overload, and polarity indication
- 3-year after-sale service
Pros
- Measures several quantities with high accuracy
- The large LCD display gives it a modern look
- Auto turn-off saves battery life
- The anti-burn feature provides safety
- Comes with a carrying case and 6 AAA batteries
Cons
- NCV feature may not work properly
8) Greenlee DM-45 Multimeter
Greenlee is one of the renowned American electrical tool companies that have been providing durable and useful tools for more than 150 years now. One of its great multimeters in 2022 for analyzing electronic circuits is Greenlee DM-45.
Greenlee DM-45 is auto-ranging, so you will not have to set the range; the tool will do that for you. It can measure voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, temperature, and duty cycle. It has a black plastic body with green rubber covering. The material is grippy, making it easier to hold and use the tool for hours.
Its screen is clear and readable. But it may cause trouble when viewing values from a certain angle. There is a bright green backlight feature to make readings visible when there is darkness in the surrounding. You can use its screw hook to hang the tool on a wall while taking measurements. You can also place it over an engine using the built-in stand. It has a solid body having five buttons. A tone is produced to confirm a button press.
Key features
- Good for measuring voltage, current, capacitance, temperature, and resistance
- Has a heavy-duty green case
- Better testing capabilities for accurate measurements.
- Auto-ranging
- Prevents false readings
- Has a screw hook as well as a built-in stand
- Bright green backlight to brighten the 4000 count LCD
Pros
- Comes with one 9V battery
- Has a sturdy rubber cover
- Contains a built-in stand
- Great multimeter for the price
Cons
- Does not come with a thermocouple despite temperature measurement being one of the basic functions.
9) Extech EX330 Auto-Ranging Mini Multimeter
Extech EX330 is a compact mini multimeter having an extra-large 4000 count screen. There is a built-in ac detector that you can use to measure AC voltage without having any contact with the circuit.
It requires 2 AAA batteries to operate. These batteries are included in the package. You can also buy them from the market at a fairly low price. The auto power-off feature also increases the lifespan of batteries as this mini multimeter turns off on its own if it is not used for 10 minutes.
There is a tilt stand to place the multimeter on a smooth surface and operate the device without holding it in hands. It also has a rubber holster to protect the plastic body of the meter. It comes with test leads, a type-bead wire probe, two batteries, and a rubber holster.
Key features
- Measures voltage, current, frequency, and temperature
- Great for capacitance measurement.
- Non-touch AC voltage detector
- 2000 count LED shows 1-inch long digits
- Auto-ranging function
- Max hold and data hold button
- Auto power off
- Built-in type-k thermometer
Pros
- Comes with 2 AAA batteries
- Rubber holster prevents damage
- The auto-ranging feature helps in taking precise measurement
- Easy to carry and use
Cons
- Pricy, not a budget multimeter for those of you looking to get accurate readings, voltage measurements for electrical circuits.
What factors to consider when buying a multimeter?
Measurement range
When considering which one to buy, remember that not all multimeters have the same measurement range. So make sure to pick one with a range that will work for your needs. For example, if you’re only working on low-voltage circuits, then you don’t need a multimeter with a high voltage measurement range. Conversely, if you’re working on high-voltage circuits, then you’ll need a multimeter with a higher voltage measurement range. Thankfully, there are plenty of great options out there to choose from. So whatever your needs may be, there’s sure to be a perfect multimeter for you.
Good multimeters generally have a high measurement range. They can measure small values with precision. The recommended voltage range is millivolt to 600V, and the recommended current range is 10 uA to 10 A.
Manual vs. auto-range
When using a manual-range multimeter, you have to select the range of measurement on your own. However, when you use an auto-range multimeter, the tool automatically sets a range. We recommend mostly going with auto-range.
With the push of a button, auto range multimeters will automatically select the range that is needed to measure the voltage, current, or resistance is tested. This makes measurements faster and more accurate. Plus, you don’t have to worry about accidentally selecting the wrong range and getting an incorrect measurement. So why not upgrade to an auto-range multimeter? You’ll be glad you did!
Accuracy of the measurement
When you’re an electrician, the accuracy of your multimeter is incredibly important. Even a tiny mistake can have potentially dangerous consequences. So it’s always good to be sure that your multimeter is calibrated correctly and performing at its best.
Accuracy tells about the maximum error limit within a measurement. A meter with 0.5% accuracy is considered good. However, a higher value than this means the meter is not suitable for professional use.
Display counts
Display count tells about the resolution of the screen. The higher the number of counts is, the better will be the resolution.
Safety
When buying an electronic tool, safety is a must-check feature. It is particularly important when you are buying a multimeter for professional use. Check CAT III rating and other safety certification of the tool before selecting it.
Digital Multimeters:
In particular, digital multimeters can be extremely handy for electricians. They allow you to quickly and easily test circuits to ensure that they’re functioning properly, which can help you avoid dangerous or costly mistakes. Additionally, many digital multimeters have other features that can come in handy during your workdays, such as data logging and voltage detection.
HVAC multimeter:
A regular multimeter can only measure volts, amps, and ohms. An HVAC multimeter, like the Fluke 116, can also measure capacitance, frequency, and duty cycle.
This makes it ideal for troubleshooting problems with air conditioning and refrigeration systems, which often use capacitors, coils, and motors that generate frequencies or pulses. The Fluke 116 can also measure the running time of an HVAC system so you can identify energy waste and save money on your utility bill.
Analog Multimeters:
Analog multimeters are still handy because they provide a simple and basic way to measure voltage, current, and resistance. Plus, they’re easy to use and can be very accurate if you know how to use them correctly.
One of the main benefits of using an analog multimeter like Tekpower TP7050, is that you can easily see what the readings are on the meter itself. This makes it much easier to diagnose any problems you may be having with your electrical system. Additionally, analog multimeters are often less expensive than digital meters, which makes them a good option for people who are just starting out in electronics or who don’t need all the bells and whistles that come with digital meters.
Automotive Multimeter:
Many people seem to think that the numbers on a digital meter or an automotive meter are just made up, or that they can be easily faked. But this isn’t the case – the numbers on these meters are actually quite accurate.
Of course, there may be some minor fluctuations or inaccuracies in the readings depending on a number of factors (such as temperature), but for the most part, these meters are fairly reliable.
Top brands of multimeters
In the electrical industry, some brands of multimeters are considered the best because of the quality of their multimeters. Three of the top brands of multimeters are Fluke, Klein Tool, and INNOVA Equipment and Tool. Their multimeters are also included in this list of the best multimeters 2022.
Here is a brief introduction to each top multimeter brand.
Klein Tool
Klein Tool is an American hand tool manufacturing company that was founded in 1857. It offers a variety of tools, including multimeters, screwdrivers, pliers, cable cutters, stripping tools, and personal protective equipment. Its products vary in their prices based on their features.
Fluke
Fluke is also an American company. It was started in 1948 with a few employees. And today it has more than two thousand employees. Its electronic diagnostic and measurement equipment is the best-known equipment in the world. Its products are also known for being pricy.
INNOVA Diagnostic Tool Brand
INNOVA is a US-based company that produces diagnostic tools including multimeters, mechanical testers, timing lights, etc. Many of its multimeters are popular for their usefulness.
Then we have Extech as well, and their brand features low amp clamp meters, which we reviewed in our separate articles.
The wrap up – Best multimeters 2022
In this list of the best multimeters 2022, we have included multimeters offering different features and having prices to provide you with a variety to choose from.
All these tools have their own advantages and value. Some are good for household use, while others are suitable for industrial work.
Among all these tools, Fluke 117 digital multimeter is the true winner because of its advanced features, high accuracy, robust body, and durability.
Though it is pricy, you should buy it, considering it as a one-time investment that will pay you back throughout your life. This is the best multimeter on our list.