With the ever increasing world of electronics, the DIY types have an ever increasing role in their tech enhanced lives, and the use of multimeters are becoming more widely used as a result. It can give you lots of benefits such as knowing the level of the power voltage of your newly bought appliances, know if your HT battery is full, if your fuse is blown, you can check it with the use of a multimeter and many more.
A multimeter is called as “multimeter” because it will enable you to know several meter functions such as ohmmeter, ammeter, and voltmeter. And in this time of innovative technologies and devices, almost all multimeters are digital thus giving you the convenience you need while using it.
Because of the higher demand for auto-mechanics, electricians, and solar panelists in this world, it only means that multimeters also have a higher demand within the market as well. This kind of equipment is beneficial to all workers in an electric-related job. Whether you are planning to work in an electric-related job or use it in any other electric-related purposes, then you are now reading the page that will help you to find the best multimeters for do-it-yourself electronics and repairs.
Multimeter Buying Guide
You can’t deny that lots of companies will offer you different types of multimeters that possess different features and qualities. One of the best ways wherein you can reach your desired results is to purchase ideal equipment that will enable you to work with ease and convenience.
However, you can also purchase the multimeter that you want through online stores, but picking the right multimeter for you is quite a difficult job. Because of many types of multimeters that each online store can offer to you, you will feel quite overwhelmed. Thus you will not have the right idea which one is the best among the rest.
Similar in purchasing a new dress online, picking the best multimeters for your do-it-yourself electronics and repairs also require some considerations that will ensure that you are picking the right one for you. You are in need to browse and browse your internet, spend your extra time and look for the key features that you think will be beneficial for your work.
But because there are lots of multimeters available out there, I am sure that you will feel stress and headache on picking the best multimeter for you. And additionally, make sure that your choice will also be suitable to your pocket since inexpensive multimeters don’t mean that they are not in the high quality standard, or the high-priced multimeters will give you the great work that you want.
There are lots of things that you must consider before you purchase the multimeter that you think will give you ideal work. But there’s nothing for you to worry because we will help you to do your job easier and faster. In this page, we will give you our top five best multimeters for your DIY electronics and repairs that will not just be used by professional electricians but also those non-professional ones. Our reviewed multimeters contain different key features and functionalities that will be very helpful for you. Keep on reading this article, and we will guide you on choosing the handy and budget-friendly multimeter that is ideal to use in different purposes.
Detailed Product Reviews
1. Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter
With the accuracy, convenience, ease of use, and reliability, the Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter is the number one tool that will help all the expert technicians and electricians in every corner of the world.
This type of multimeter has the useful vital features that every electrician and technician in this world will need to solve pressing problems and will fix your electronic and electrical systems, plus built-in temperature measurements, analog bar graph, and a backlit digital display.
You can purchase this Multimeter in Amazon stores at a moderately affordable price. It is suitable to use by many electricians and technicians who barely need the best multimeter to solve any types of electrical problems in their work.
Key Features of Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter
- Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter has a built-in thermometer that will enable you to measure many types of temperature in only one item. You will not require to carry a different instrument that will measure different temperature. All you need is here in this Fluke Multimeter.
- Increase your work productivity through the help of its automatic and manual ranging, Minimum and maximum average recording, auto hold and display hold features. Because in these days that lots of electricians and technicians need to finish lots of works, they also need the multimeter that can finish their works faster and easier.
- This Multimeter is the accurate multimeter for you that could solve serious problems at your work in both electronic and electrical systems.
- It will also offer you the right true RMS AC voltage and current plus the diode measurements, continuity, resistance, capacitance, and frequency. If you want to have all of these features, all you need to do is to browse it on Amazon’s website and enjoy its efficient and effective work.
Advantages of Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter
- Durable Construction – I am sure that all of us want to have a device that will last for a longer period. And similar to technicians and electricians, they also want to have a multimeter tool that they can use for many years. This Multimeter can be your best choice. This type of multimeter is the well-built type of device. It is meant to test leads and any other electrical parts. It is stored in a case that is also well made and easy to carry.
- Safe to Use – Almost all of us worry about our safety when we are using a new type of device. But this Fluke 179 Multimeter is safe to use, so there’s nothing for you to worry about. It is safe to use because it complies with all the standards for current safety. So, you will not put your life at risk while using this device. Carefully follow its instructions and safety precautions to use this multimeter more safely.
- Easy to Use Device – Even though this type of multimeter contains several key features, it is still easy to access by non-professionals or professionals. Its LCD Screen has an ideal display and can be read the measurement even in a darker light. All of the ports and buttons of this multimeter are shown clearly for an easier inserting of the test leads and usage.
The disadvantage of Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter
• The only thing that you might not like about this Multimeter is its color. As you can see, this type of digital multimeter has the color combination of black and yellow which might not be that pleasant in the eyes of other users. But despite its color, it will still give you the high quality standard work that you will never find in any other multimeters.
What We Like
- Automatic and manual ranging
- built-in thermometer
- Safe and Easy to use
- Back-lit LCD screen
What We Don’t Like
- Ugly color… We seriously couldn’t find anything worth noting 🙂
2. Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter
There are lots of beneficial features that this Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter has. And it’s easy to use, and versatility is just one of the best features that you will love about this type of multimeter. It will enable you to measure frequency, capacitance, voltage and many more. Through the use of this, you will be able to determine the condition and continuity involved in a diode.
The resolution and range of the Fluke 117 are the features that differ from the HVAC devices and other basic multimeters. It can evaluate the voltage measurement for as low as 0.005 Volts. It has the range of 600mV that we the HAVC applications don’t have. You can purchase this Fluke 117 Multimeter in Amazon stores a not-too-high price.
The RMS Function of this Fluke 117 is the only thing that makes it as one of the best multimeters of expert technicians and electricians. It will give you the right and specific information even in unfavorable situations. Almost all of the multimeter units that didn’t have the True RMS feature usually give you wrong and inaccurate information. And through the use of this Fluke 117, you will be ensured that you are getting the right measurement of voltage, capacitance, and frequency.
Key Features of Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter
- The Screen – The first and only thing that you will see at the first use of this Fluke 117 is its bright digital screen. It is not that large but will give you ease on reading. Some multimeters have a smaller screen, thus giving difficulties to the user to read the measurement. Yes, the quality of the screen of a multimeter is as important as its key feature. And luckily, the manufacturer of this Fluke 117 ensures that both the features and display of this multimeter is beneficial. When the darker light goes, the screen of this multimeter will remain white and bright. Its LCD will not automatically turn on unless you press the on and off button. It will only mean that you will be able to save more battery thus giving your multimeter a longer life that will help you to finish all your projects.
- The Design – Fluke 117 is one of the best multimeters that you must have. This multimeter is popular to all professional technicians because it has a good looking design and will give you a high quality standard of work. One of the great majorities of Fluke 117 is that it can be used for a longer period. This Fluke 117 is not that small as you think but still suitable inside your palm. I know that you don’t want to have a not too large multimeter type. Thus I recommend you to purchase this Fluke 117.
- Auto Shut Off – Lots of customers consider this feature as non-crucial and irrelevant. However, auto shut off is a critical feature to those individuals who works in electric-related jobs every single day. There are lots of instances that you might not switch your device off because you’re in a hurry. If you leave your device on, it will lead to a zero percent battery, and the empty charged battery will give you another expense. As you can see, auto shut off feature of Fluke 11 will not just save your money but will save its life too. After 10 to 15 minutes of inactivity, your Fluke 117 multimeter will automatically be turned off. It can detect activity. Thus there’s nothing to worry if your work will last for 15 minutes.
Advantages of Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter
- Gives you Precise and Accurate Data – Because of its True RMS feature, it will enable you to get precise and accurate information even in unfavorable situations.
- Easy to Use – This Fluke 117 comes up with readable and easy to understand instructions that will enable you to use it in a very simple way. Though it contains complex features, it will remain its easy usage.
The disadvantages of Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter
- Manufactured in China – Some of us think that all the items made in China will not last for many years because of their low quality used materials. However, even if this Fluke 117 multimeter is manufactured in China, it still made up of high quality materials thus will ensure that you will be able to use it for so many years.
- Display Tends to Lose Contrast Under Certain Angles – There are some instances that it may lose the contrast in some angles, but it will still give you a readable, right, and precise data of measurement.
What We Like
- Precise and accurate data
- ’Auto shut off’ feature to conserve battery life
- Back-lit LCD screen
- Durable and ergonomic
What We Don’t Like
- Hard to see digits on screen when tilted at a certain angle
3. Fluke 114 Electrical TRMS Multimeter
This Fluke 114 True RMS Multimeter can be operated with one hand and a tool that is ideal for solving serious problems for no-go or go testing. It has the feature of AutoVolt that will automatically switch the measurement from DC voltage to AC voltage and vice versa. It also has the feature of LoZ you can use on identifying a voltage type that is called as the “ghost voltage” and will avoid you from having wrong information of measurement.
It has the True RMS display function that has the current and voltage readings, which are about 6000 count resolution, resistance, continuity, and tests frequency. A bigger LED white backlight is very useful for poor lit locations. It has easy open battery storage, thus giving you the chance to change its batteries if you want to in just easy steps.
Professionals can use this and non-professional users to solve their serious work problems every single day. It has the safety features that will keep you safe while using it. You can purchase this Fluke 114 Electrical True RMS Multimeter in Amazon stores nationwide.
Key Features of Fluke 114 Electrical True RMS Multimeter
- Build Quality – This Multimeter is sturdy and durable, that has a protective and meaty holster. It has a tilting bail on its rear which makes it more strength. It has 9 voltage of the battery that can only be examined with a separate board under of it, which is also made up of solid metals that are directly soldered into the circuit panel. As mentioned earlier, you can access this Fluke Multimeter using only one hand.
- Small and Lightweight – As mentioned earlier, you can operate this type of multimeter using your one hand. Thus it has a small size and lighter in weight which you can carry anywhere. Its weight is ranging from 9 ounces to 10 ounces. It is very convenient and compact that will enable you to do anything that you want. If you are an expert electrician or technician, I’m sure that you had a toolbox. Thus you can use it as your storing space for your multimeter. At its compact size, rest assured that it will not take up a wider space in your toolbox. On the other hand, if you will choose to store it inside your home, just a small space from your garage is too much for this multimeter.
- Auto Power Off – Is there an instance that you are doing some analysis and find out that your multimeter battery is zero percent charge? Well, this feature of the Fluke 114 multimeter can be your answer to your multimeter battery problem. Yes, it is advised that you will turn off your multimeter after every use, but some people will leave their multimeter to keep on running because of some working schedules. Thus it will end up on zero percent charge of the battery. However, this Multimeter will turn off its battery automatically after some minutes of inactivity. And yes, this kind of method will not just prolong your multimeter battery’s life but also avoid you from spending unnecessary amounts. In some instances that its battery runs out of charge, it is preferable for you to keep at least a single pair of the battery near you.
Advantages of Fluke 114 Electrical True RMS Multimeter
- Affordable – The multimeter can be purchased in Amazon stores nationwide with a price moderately affordable price. It might be expensive for other people, but it is worth buying.
- Reliable and Accurate – While using this multimeter on measuring the voltage, capacitance, or current of a thing, it will ensure that you are getting the right and proper measurement of that thing. So there is nothing to worry anymore about having false information when you choose to use this multimeter.
- Easy to Use and Lightweight – Similar to other types of multimeters mentioned above, the Fluke 114 Multimeter is lightweight and easy to use. With its compact size, I am sure that it will be easy for you to carry it together with other tools and equipment you are using. It also comes up with a readable and easy to understand instructions that will enable you to follow it easily.
The Disadvantages of Fluke 114 Electrical True RMS Multimeter
- The display is not Backlit – One of the disadvantages of the Fluke 114 is that its display is not backlit, meaning there are some angles that you might not be able to read the details.
- Bad Color Combination – Another disadvantage of this multimeter is that it has a bad color combination. Black and yellow might not be pleasant in the eyes of other users, but some will love it. Anyway, color doesn’t matter; what matter is the quality of work you can get from using it. However, its color should be improved to be pleasant and attractive in the eyes of every customer.
What We Like
- Small size and lighter in weight
- Protective holster for carrying around
- Auto power off
- Budget-friendly
What We Don’t Like
- Lack of a backlight on LCD display
4. Mastech MS8229, Auto-Range, (5-in-1) Multi-functional, Digital Multimeter
The Mastech MS8229, Auto-Range, (5-in-1) Multi-functional, Digital Multimeter is one of the multimeter types that is very famous in many households in this world because of its high quality works. From its manufacturing materials and process, it can be one of the most efficient and effective multimeters in your electrical works. It might be a higher range of price amount compared to the previews reviewed multimeters, but this is worth buying for.
This type of digital multimeter is one of the best multimeters that can be used by both professional technicians and non-professional ones. Both of these types of people distribute their help to increase the demand of this Digital Multimeter out there.
This type of multi-functional digital multimeter is very handy and usable for any types of work. It contains exclusive features that you will surely love. You can purchase this Multimeter in Amazon stores nationwide at a good price.
Key Features of the Mastech MS8229, Auto-Range, (5-in-1) Multi-functional, Digital Multimeter
- Testing – One of the good features of this Mastech MS8229, Auto-Range, (5-in-1) Multi-functional, Digital Multimeter is its ability to work in all the things that you need for your job. This Multi-functional digital multimeter can measure voltages and current and will give you factual information. Just keep in mind that you will read its instructions first to use it correctly and adequately.
- Reverse Polarity Protection – This Auto-Range Multimeter can protect you from that terrible hazard of reverse polarity, it means that you will avoid experiencing the harm of electric shock while you are working with the help of this Multi-functional Digital Multimeter.
- Data Retrieval – While using this Digital Multimeter, you will be ensured that you will keep your data in case you need it in the future. It has the feature of Minimum or Maximum and Holds buttons that will enable you to save all your valuable data from every test you have been performed that will save your time and energy from the not so necessary re-testing of components in case of interrupted moments.
Advantages of Mastech MS8229, Auto-Range, (5-in-1) Multi-functional, Digital Multimeter
- Low Cost – You can purchase this multimeter in Amazon stores at a great price. It is suitable for your budget and will give you a high quality performance that you would love.
- Easy to Access – This type of multi-functional digital multimeter comes with its manual that is readable and can be understood by everyone. Through reading its manual, you will be able to use it appropriately. Thus you will have a high level of quality performance. Because of that, you can also finish your job very fast.
- Versatility – The Mastech Auto-Range Multimeter is very versatile; thus, you can use it in your workplace, vehicles, and in your house. It can work on any types of electrical-related jobs that you will surely love.
Disadvantages of Mastech MS8229, Auto-Range, (5-in-1) Multi-functional, Digital Multimeter
Dimmed Screen – One of the things that you would hate about this Mastech MS8229 is that it has a dimmed screen that will give you some problems on reading the measurement flashed on its screen.
Inconsistent RPM Feature – While this multimeter is well made and can access easily, it still have some disadvantages such as having an inconsistent RPM feature. Thus, you are in need to check its RPM reading every time you will use it to get accurate and precise measurement.
What We Like
- Data-saving feature stores data for future use
- Reverse polarity protection feature to safe guard you from electric shock
- Earns our ‘Money Saver’ Award for its affordability while still providing many great features
- Wide variety of uses
What We Don’t Like
- RPM readings can be inconsistent sometimes
- Low-lit LCD screen
5. Etekcity Digital Multimeter
The very first thing that you will see about this type of multimeter is that it is a type of tool with both test leads and clamps. It is an ideal choice because you will not need to stick its leads into an electrical circuit to determine its amps measurement. Instead, you can separate the clamp and the cords to have better outcomes. Keep in mind that you are required to separate the cord from the clamp but keep it aligned in each symbol of the clamp to have the precise and correct measurement as possible.
For your information, this type of multimeter is not made to determine voltages measurement that will exceed 600 volts. If you do this, you will break your Etekcity Digital Multimeter forever. If you want to analyze DC, keep in mind to switch it in the right mode. If you did your DC measurement through the use of the incorrect mode, your multimeter unit would give you an inaccurate measurement that may also lead it to break. You can purchase this multimeter model in Amazon stores nationwide at an affordable price.
Some functions of the Etekcity Digital Multimeter such as max reading, auto-ranging, and data hold that can be accessed with one hand if you are an expert that is knowledgeable on how to deal with electricity every single day. One of its notable things is that it is considered as an automotive multimeter yet can still be used for your household measurement purposes.
Key Features of Etekcity Digital Multimeter
- Good Display – Other people will surely expect the low-quality performance of a cheap item. However, the Etekcity Digital Multimeter has the feature of good display that has readable markings and symbols. One of the most notable features of this multimeter is that you can read the measurements flashed on its screen in any angles without any problem. There are lots of multimeter types that contain similar problems, which is a lower level of contrast in different angles, and it is irritating, most, especially during sunny situations.
- Auto Ranging – This Multimeter has the auto-ranging function that is similar to other types of multimeters available. It has a manual that is very helpful to those people who don’t have the idea on how to set the range all by themselves. If you are an expert, I am sure that this feature is one of the things that you would love about this multimeter. But the non-professional ones will also love this feature because it will enable them to alleviate their use in any conditions.
- Energy Conservation – The Etekcity Digital Multimeter has the feature of lower battery indicator that will warn you about its battery percentage. In addition to this, this model also has the feature of an auto turn off the function. I know that you know what I mean. Similar to those multimeters that have this kind of feature, some people leave their devices without switching it off, this will require them to spend money for unnecessary purposes such as purchasing batteries frequently.
Advantages of Etekcity Digital Multimeter
- Affordability – You can purchase this Etekcity Digital Multimeter in Amazon stores nationwide at a very affordable price. Very affordable yet will give you high quality performances. This is one of the proofs that not all cheap devices have a lower quality standard, and not all expensive ones are the ideal devices that will fit for all your needs.
- Easy to Use – Similar to the other multimeters mentioned above, the Etekcity multimeter contains its manual that will guide its user on how to use it correctly and properly. Its manual is readable and easy to understand thus giving you a higher chance to use it correctly even though you don’t have enough idea on how to use it correctly.
- Battery Saving Feature – What most people like about a multimeter device is the long life that will enable them to use it for a longer period during their working hours. It is very helpful to those people who forget to turn off their devices every time they are leaving their workplace. With a battery saver feature, you can ensure that your multimeter device will last for so many hours.
Disadvantages of Etekcity Digital Multimeter
- Display Could Be Bigger – The first thing that you would hate about this model is its display. Even though its quality will remain the same, it might be bigger most especially if you will use several features in one single usage. But for some people, this might not be a big deal for them. As long as you know how to use it and can determine its symbols, it is still useful for you.
- Sometimes Inaccurate and False Measurement – The main reason why you purchase your multimeter model is to measure a voltage or current in a precise and more accurate manner. Although it can be solved immediately if its cord is still aligned on its designated symbols on the clamp, so there is nothing to worry about it.
These two nuisances are just a minor disadvantage that you may experience if you choose this Electricity Digital Multimeter. This type of multimeter model is considered as a rare item that can give you a high quality performance despite its disadvantages.
What We Like
- Auto ranging function
- LCD is readable in most lighting conditions
- Auto turn-off feature to save energy
What We Don’t Like
- Small screen can be an issue for some
- Inaccuracies in readings can sometimes occur
Final Verdict
When it comes about the best multimeters for your do-it-yourself electronics and repairs, we can’t deny that the best multimeter type among the rest is the Fluke 179 ESFP True RMS Multimeter. With its features mentioned above, it is undeniable that it had been used by many professional and non-professional technicians or electricians. As we can see, all of its features can give you reliable, precise, and accurate data that you need. Because of its popularity in the electrical-related jobs, you will feel not only confident but also comfortable that you are using a high quality type of multimeter. Though all of the mentioned multimeters above are all I high quality, I will still recommend you to try to use this Multimeter to have reliable data for your job.
This type of multimeter had been proved itself to the electrical workers around the world, thus rest assured that when you choose this type of multimeter among others, you will be working with confidence because you knew to yourself that your multimeter is an ideal multimeter for your job. Because of its high quality work, it is truly recommended by all professionals around the world to use as your one of the different tools and equipment at your job.
This Fluke 179 ESFP is made to help you through giving you factual and accurate details. It is designed to lasts for so many years, thus avoiding you to spend money for unnecessary purposes. Even though we had mentioned some of its disadvantages, but still it doesn’t matter because lots of its avid users knew that it would give them high quality projects. Expert technicians and electricians may not face any problem with this multimeter, but the non-professionals may experience few problems about it. But they will avoid these problems through reading and understanding its instructions thoroughly to use it correctly and properly. And through that, I am sure that they will love using this multimeter in their entire life.
Purchasing this kind of multimeter is difficult, just like buying clothes online. It is imperative if you will weigh the advantages and disadvantages of this multimeter first before buying. Also think about your budget, its key features and other factors that will be helpful for you to pick the right multimeter for you. Also, knowing its disadvantages is also crucial for you to determine if this product suits your work. Kindly use this multimeter products review to guide you on the right path to get the best multimeter that will meet all your needs.
If you want to have the best multimeter for your DIY electronics and repairs, I am sure that you will find it now through the use of this review article. Keep in mind to pick the best multimeter for you that is suitable for your needs and budget. Both of these factors must be considered so that you will be ensured of its high quality works that will fit your do-it-yourself electronics and repairs. As long as you are using the right multimeter for your work, you will always be inspired to finish your job on its right due. Know your needs and purposes, and picking one of our reviewed multimeters will help you to do your job in an easier and faster way.
