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Are you in the electrical trade? Then you know that you must have a multimeter to solve electrical problems that occur while working. As a trained electrician, I only use the best when it comes to multimeters. Click HERE to see best Digital Multimeter.
As you know, two types of multimeters are available that you can use in the electrical profession and they are the digital multimeter and analog types. The analog has a needle while the digital comes with LED or LCD display. As the demand of accuracy grows, regarding testing of electrical systems it makes more sense to use digital multimeters than the analog one.
Here I have reviewed various multimeters and to help you in finding the right one best suited for your profession are in my opinion the 5 best Mastech Multimeters available on the market today.
Table of Contents
- Top 5 Best digital multimeter reviews
- 1. Fluke 87-V Digital Multimeter revew
- 2. Fluke 113 True-RMS Utility Multimeter Review
- 3. Equus INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter Review
- 4. Innova 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter Review
- 5. Extech 505 Auto Ranging, Heavy Duty Digital Multimeter Review
- Multimeter Buying Guide
- What Matters Most?
- Advance Features of Multimeter
- Safety Check
Top 5 Best digital multimeter reviews
1. Fluke 87-V Digital Multimeter revew
As you know a multimeters a useful tool to diagnose problems that occur in electrical systems. They are easy to use if you know how to use them. If you are in electrical and automotive work, then you know that the multimeter is there to help you solve and fix problems with electronic devices.
Therefore, what makes the Fluke 87V such a popular multimeter, sit down, relax, and read some interesting facts as to why you should buy yourself this great digital multimeter to help you ease your work when searching for electrical and current problems.
The popular Fluke 87V Digital Multimeter
When it comes to the Fluke 87V Digital Multimeter the name says it all. This multi-tester is a multipurpose True-RMS meter that helps you with around-the-house and professional use. It comes with some great features classically designed with a removable holster with integral probe and test lead storage. For your convenience, it arrives with TL75 test leads and a nine-volt battery.
When it comes to the Fluke 87V Digital Multimeter the name says it all. This multi-tester is a multipurpose True-RMS meter that helps you with around-the-house and professional use.
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For Versatility it comes with Manual and Auto Ranging
This distinctive digital multimeter provides you with versatility of both worlds, providing you to use in both auto and manual ranging. With the auto-ranging feature, it saves you time and hassle in knowing the range of resistance, capacitance, voltage, or any electrical characteristic as the meter finds the value for you. With the manual ranging of the Fluke 87V there are ranges preset and you, need to know the value and the range of the component to provide accurate readings.
It provides users with accurate voltage and frequency measurement, even when used on adjustable-speed motor drives and supplementary loud equipment. It comes with built-in thermometer for convenient use in measuring temperature readings without the use of carrying separate instruments when it comes to taking readings on air conditioners and refrigerators.
Has True-RMS and Selectable Filter
With the Fluke 87V, Digital Multimeter instantly measures the actual amount of voltage supplied to systems that operate on AC voltage with the true-RMS (root-mean-square) function. The multimeter is reliable and accurate with reading non-linear signals. The added selectable filter provides accurate voltage, while the input alert offers and audible warning if you use the wrong input jacks. Moreover, it measures up to 0 am page, up to 20 am page for 30 seconds, and 1,000-volt AC and DC. A featured analog bar graph allows for quick-changing measurement or unstable signals and measures frequency to 200 kHz, as well as continuity, diode testing, and resistance.
Safety Standards of the multimeter
All inputs of the digital multimeters updated to the third edition of ANSI/ISA S82.01 and EN61010-1 CAT IV 600V and CAT III, 1000V. The unit can withstand an excess of 8.000 V and reduces the risk of surges and spikes.
Easy to read display
The digital multimeter comes with a large, backlit display for easy reading. It also has a selectable sleep mode to help increase the life of the battery, while the access door makes it easier for you to change the battery without breaking the calibration seal.
What do you receive with the multimeter?
When you received the Fluke 87V, Digital Multimeter Fluke 87V, Digital Multimeter the box includes a TL75 test lead, AC72 alligator clips, nine-volt battery, holster, user manual, 80BK temperature probe, plus you can download a full manual on the Fluke website.
Main Features
- Exclusive utility for exact voltage and frequency capacity on variable speed motor drives and other electrically loud equipment
- Built-in thermometer easily allows you to obtain temperature analysis exclusive without you having to carry any extra instruments
- Non obligatory magnetic hanger can be bought separately for easy set-up and screening while freeing your hands for other tasks
- Huge digit display with clear, two-level backlight makes the 87V considerably easy to read
- True RMS AC current and voltage for precise measurements on non linear signals
- Selectable filter for correct frequency and voltage measurements on motor drives
- Provides accurate 0.05% DC readings
- LCD displays 6000 counts, 3 ¾ digits
- Comes with 4 ½ digit mode for accurate measurements (20,000 counts)
- Measures up to 1000 VAC and DC
- Measures up to 10 Amp, 20 Amp for up to 30 seconds
- Has a built-in thermometer with TC probe included
- Measures frequency to 200 kHz and % duty cycle
- Can measure continuity, diode testing, and resistance
- 10,000 µF capacitance range of components and motor caps
- Min/Max-Average recording with Min/Max Alert to capture discrepancies automatically
- Peak capture to record transients as fast as 250 microsecond
- Relative mode to eliminate test lead intervention from low ohms measurements
- Manual and auto ranging for minimum plasticity
- Touch Hold to capture constant readings preventing loud signals
- Huge display numbers and two-level bright white backlight for augmented visibility
- Analog bar graph for quick altering or unsound signals
- Input Alert supplies audible warning against incorrect use of input jacks
- Enhanced selectable sleep mode for longer battery life
- Access door for rapid battery changes without infringement if the calibration seal
- Comes with “Classic” design plus new removable holster with built in test lead, and probe storage
- Lifetime warranty
Pros
- The digital multimeter has great specifications
- It is made of durable material to provide protection when it falls
- The meter is accurate with reading all measurements
- The temperature feature is handy in allowing you to only use one device for all measurements
- The screen is big enough to read and the backlight helps when working in low-light conditions
Cons
- The only negative remark was from one customer that said the multimeter did not provide a reading when used in measuring cold temperatures in refrigerators although another customer had no complaints when it came to RV fridge repairs.
We hope that reading our Fluke 87V Review, it has provided you with enough information to help you in deciding if this is the digital multimeter, you need when working with electronic equipment. The multi-tester comes with great features that have provided accurate readings for more than 120 clients who have bought the product without any disappointments when it comes to measuring voltage, current, and temperature.
2. Fluke 113 True-RMS Utility Multimeter Review
Have you ever been in a situation where you need to buy yourself a multimeter and cannot decide which one is the best to buy? Well, three months ago, my instrument broke after using it for nearly three years a Fluke. I install and repair security systems and need a trustworthy multimeter to help me with the basic electronic testing requirements.
After reading through many customer feedbacks and a Fluke 113 review debating with myself, I decided on buying this one for general use. I have been using it as mentioned for three months now and so pleased with this product that I had to share it with you.
What makes the Fluke 113 a great instrument?
Well to answer the question the Fluke 113 True-RMS Utility multimeter in the three months, I have been using it has not let me down yet. First, this multi-tester is sturdy and a digital multimeter that helps me to test AC/DC voltage to 600V, resistance testing in 60-kilo ohms, and capacitance to 9,999 microfarads. For those who need to test diode this instrument helps you with that. You can test from silicon, germanium, and power diodes and with the beeper; you can test continuity with audible detection of resistance.
At the same time, I can test voltage and continuity. In addition, if I am working with security systems in industrial factories where noise is a big factor the RMS helps me to measure accurate readings without any disturbance of noise and electronic factors.
Fluke 113 True-RMS Utility Multimeter
If you are looking to buy a multitester to test basic wiring, absence of voltage, capacitors, and revenue that this is necessary have in your toolbox
Great functions
Another reason that makes my Fluke 113 such a great instrument is the fact that it records signal fluctuations by pressing the hold function to freeze measurements on the display screen. With the multimeter, I have used it in low-light conditions as the backlit light provides enough light to take measurements. The meter is safety rated for Category III 600V and Category IV 300V, which is excellent for a multi-tester. It also comes with sleep mode that has helped allot as I forget to switch it off sometimes, especially when busy and has saved battery life imagine me changing the 9V battery every week.
Received the following
When I opened the package for the first time, I received the Fluke 113 True-RMS Utility multimeter, 9V battery, test leads, and instruction on how to use the multi-tester.
Features
- The multimeter has VCHEK LoZ low impedance measurement function that allows simultaneous voltage and continuity testing
- It comes with a large backlit display for visibility in low-lit areas
- For accurate non-linear load measurements it has true-RMS
- The recording of signal fluctuations with the min/max function is great
- Added in the Fluke 113 multimeter it has an integral holster with probe holders for storage
- The instrument range is manual or auto
- Where safety is concerned, it meets measurements category CAT III 600V and CAT IV 300V for a higher level of safety
- With the multimeter you can measure AC/DC voltage, capacitance, resistance, and performs continuity, and diode tests
The instrument is ideal for utility Linesmen and line Electricians. The multimeter is great for testing revenue, capacitors, voltage absence of presence, basic wiring checks, and electrical testing where ghost voltage may be present.
Since I have been using the digital multimeter, I am glad to say that the positive results outweigh the negative results.
Pros
- Min/max, average function is great
- The multi-tester is tough and designed well
- Very affordable for the price and all the features you receive
- It is easy to use and the display is big enough to read measurements
- The Fluke 113 is accurate when taking measurements and have used it with my security repairs, and at home with small electrical problem testing
Cons
- This tester does not work if you want to test amps and you will need another model to be able to measure these forms of testing
When I bought the Fluke 113, it really surprised me the first time I used it. If you are looking to buy a multitester to test basic wiring, absence of voltage, capacitors, and revenue that this is necessary have in your toolbox. The multi-tester is inexpensive and I am not disappointed at all, as it has provided me with accurate readings all the time when used. Do yourself a favor and buy yourself this durable multimeter to help you with all your electrical requirements.
3. Equus INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter Review
The Innova 3320 digital multimeter is a general all-purpose instrument designed for use in general, automotive, and home electronics. I am in the automotive trade, but also enjoy working with home electrical appliances as a hobby and know that you need an accurate multimeter to do the job.
I am also pleased to say that the small instrument of mine has provided me with excellent results and here you will find what makes this auto-ranging digital multimeter so special.
Durable and hardworking multimeter
The Innova 3320 multimeter is workhorse instrument that is accurate with all readings when used the great thing about this device is that it has auto-ranging scale that helps me with my work, as I do not need to set the correct range when taking electronic measurements. The LCD screen is big enough for me to read and has a color-coded LED display to check the battery. The units covered with protective rubber corners to protect the multimeter when dropped. Moreover, I have dropped mine once or twice without any scratches, and still work well.
Equus INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
I am also pleased to say that the small instrument of mine has provided me with excellent results and here you will find what makes this auto-ranging digital multimeter so special.
Wide range of measurements
With the Innova 3320, you can measure AC/DC voltage, current, diode checking function, audible continuity, and resistance. You need to note that it only measures up to 10 amps of DC current, but only 200.0mA of AC current. Therefore, if you do need to use it for AC current measurements this can be a big deal.
Unique feature
Another unique feature I like about the Innova multimeter is that it has a battery load tester, and by selecting one of the four voltages in the battery test function and the color coded led’s it tells you the status of the battery tested. If the battery is still in working order, the display shows green, orange for weak, and red for bad. What makes this feature so special is that the battery – load test function puts the battery under a load and measures the results of voltage across it. This provides an accurate reading of the battery.
Accessories
With the Innova 3320 multimeter, you receive detachable test leads; an arm strap to keep it secured while taking measurements, and has protective corners providing protection when dropped. You also receive an instruction manual on how to use the instruments.
Key Features
- The multimeter has a 3 ½ digit large LCD display that is easy to read
- It comes with 3 LEDs: green, yellow and red for testing batteries
- The instrument has auto range for ACV, DCV, Ohms, AC mA and DC mA
- Two degree pollution meter
- The safety, measuring circuit category is II
- It shows automatic negative (-) polarization warning
- It has automatic zero tuning
- The low battery indication is displayed with a battery symbol on the LCD
- Over-range indicator (except in the 10A range) – displays “OL” on the LCD
- The digital multimeter automatically powers off after 15 unused minutes
- The instrument is powered by two 1.5V AA batteries
- Has single-setting resistance function for DC and AC voltage
- Covered with protective rubber guards on the corners
Pros
- The size and shape are suitable
- The display is easy to read
- The probe storage is nice
- The resistance auto-ranging is quick
- The wrist strap is great to use while measuring
- Low battery indication is great
Cons
- The only problem I found with the device is that it does not have a battery door and you need to unscrew the back case, so care needs to be taken that you do not lose the self tapping screws.
If you are looking to buy the Innova 3320, I hope that this review has helped you to make a good choice. I have used my multimeter for quite a long time now and it has never let me down in my automotive repair, or home hobby work. The digital multimeter is durable, easy to use, and accurate with testing and measurements.
4. Innova 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter Review
Howdy, if you are an auto mechanic like me then you know that when it comes to testing problems in engines you need a reliable multimeter, as you cannot afford to make mistakes with engines and peoples’ lives.
I own an Innova 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter that has helped me especially when it comes to automotive electrical diagnostics. This specifically designed digital multimeter is for car technicians and the DIY driveway mechanic.
My findings with using this automotive multimeter
I have had my Innova 3340 multimeter for ±6 months now and very pleased with the results of using it. It has helped me to diagnose and replace only faulty components, saving me time and costs when it comes to customers. It tests relays, circuit breakers, coils, fuses, resistors, and switches. The great thing about this instrument is that you can measure amps, volts, and resistance.
The multimeter comes with auto-ranging that helps allot, as I do not have to select the range at all and I make sure that the multi-tester is on the correct function to use. It also has over-load protection, and the auto shut-off function is great, especially when you are busy and forget to switch off the instrument saving battery power. With this meter you can measure inductive RPM as well as vehicle RPM that I have used in testing the coil.
Prevents damage to ECU
Another great feature I love about this Innova 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter is the 10 MegOhm; the impedance prevents the engine control unit from damage when used.
It has automatic zero alteration and turn around polarization protection when used, and measures high temperature in both Fahrenheit and Celsius. With the min/max hold buttons, I save retrieved data and the unit provides me with hands-free testing that includes a test lead holder. It is rugged and protected by corner guards as I have dropped mine before and it still works perfectly.
The unit comes with a temperature probe, inductive RMP clamp, and the handy carrying case if you do need to go out on the road to check on faulty vehicles.
Features
- The Innova 3340 multimeter designed to help pinpoint engine problems, and UL Certified
- Can test alternator diodes, solenoids, wiring, switches, duty cycle, switches, and more
- Has a temperature probe, inductive RPM clamp, and carrying case
- Features auto shut-off, auto-ranging, and over-load protection
- Accessories included are test lead holders for hands-free protection
- Comes with automatic zero adjustment, and reverse polarity protection
- The digital multimeter measures temperature in both Celsius and Fahrenheit
- The rugged corner guards protect the instrument if dropped
Pros
- As a professional mechanic this Innova 3340 Automotive Digital Multimeter has been accurate with all readings
- Great to test car batteries with
- The auto shut-off function has helped allot
- The multimeter is rugged enough as I have dropped mine without any damages to it
- Provides great temperature readings
- Testing is accurate and I test everything on a vehicle that is automotive electrical, and works great in coil testing too
Cons
- Voltages reads fine, but a bit slow and think it could be the auto-range function
While using the Innova 3340 I am pleased to say that it has not let me down when used. As I do many automotive repairs, use my multimeter for most of the testing, and repairs to be done, it has provided me only with the best of functions from being a durable, easy to use, large LCD screen to read, and versatility in testing different items on a vehicle. I highly recommend it to all who are in the automotive trade.
5. Extech 505 Auto Ranging, Heavy Duty Digital Multimeter Review
If you are looking for a professional industrial heavy-duty multimeter then we welcome you to our page where we are going to help you with a review on the Extech Ex505. These multimeters designed for industrial, plant maintenance, electrical and other heavy jobs and enriched with some great features in a multimeter.
Auto Ranging, Heavy Duty Digital Multimeter
The outside of the digital multimeters made with double molded outer casing to help protect the unit when dropped, and specifically designed for heavy-duty industrial type of work. It carries all the required functions an industrial electrician needs when working and has a K-type temperature element included.
Complete Overview
The Extech 505 comes with True RMS that is capable of taking various measures, including frequency, diode testing, capacitance, and continuity. Other great features included in this multimeter is the ability to hold data, relative hold, auto-ranging which automatically regulates the capacity range based on the distinguished source, such as electrical works and electronic apparatus.
The True RMS function
When it comes to commercial and industrial surroundings, some electronic devices present make readings impossible, for example, motor drives, fluorescent lights, power supplies for computers and many other components can distort the AC waveform. This makes it hard for basic meters to provide accurate readings. The EX505 comes with the advanced True RMS calculation to help with these types of distortions.
Versatile
The Extech Ex505 is designed rugged and is both dustproof and waterproof and IP67-rated and drop tested to six feet. It comes with a large LCD display that counts to 4,000 and provides an accurate reading of 0.5% and CAT IV-600V safety regulated to protect you when working on outdoor wiring.
As the unit is waterproof, many marine technicians and boat mechanics use them while working on a boat or on the docks. When dropped in water, it floats and easy to recover. It comes with auto power off function that you can disable, has a low battery indication, hold function to freeze any data on the screen, and a display backlight. The battery and fuse are replaceable.
What do you receive with the multimeter?
The package includes the Extech 505 heavy duty multimeter, double molded test leads, 9 volt battery, user manual, a magnetic hanging strap, and carrying case. You can also have the unit NIST calibrated.
Features
- AC/DC voltage range: 0.1mV to 1000V
- AC/DC current range: 0.1µA to 10A
- Resistance range: 0.1W to 40MW
- Capacitance range: 0.01nF to 100µF
- Frequency (electrical) range: 4Hz to 1kHz
- Frequency (electronic) range: 0.001Hz to 10MHz
- Temperature range: -4 to 1382°F
- Basic accuracy: ±0.5%
- Diode open circuit voltage of 2.8V DC
- Relative and Data Hold
- Double molded for waterproof protection
- Auto power off with disable feature
- CAT IV-600V safety rating for industrial applications
- Case and basic accessories included
- 4,000 count LCD display
- Comes with great buttons to use that consist of the following:
- Range button
- Hz and percentage button
- Mode button
- Function switches
- MA, µA and 10A input jacks
- COM input jack
- Positive input jack
- Backlight button
- REL button
- HOLD button
The multimeter also comes with a tilt stand and battery compartment on the rear of the unit.
Pros
- The multimeter is built to last even when dropped 6 feet
- Great to use in wet conditions as it is waterproof and floats when dropped in water
- Reasonably priced for an industrial multimeter
- Provides you with 11 functions, making it very versatile to use
- The data hold function is great even after removing test leads from the device you are testing
- The large display is great and easy to read
- The tilt stand works great when used on worktable
- It comes with a great storage case to keep everything together when on the road
Cons
- One customer complained that the multimeter tests slow, and customer care from Extech Instruments was willing to replace the unit with a new one showing that Extech takes care of their customer’s complaints and needs when they are unhappy.
Extech provides a three year limited warranty on this digital multimeter.
When it comes to industrial quality in multimeters, the Extech Ex505 True RMS Multimeter is the right instrument for you if you work in the industrial electrical environment, or marine world. It is waterproof and safety rated with CAT IV-600V, easy to use, durable, and provides you with 11 different measurement reading functions.
Multimeter Buying Guide
Basic multimeter should be able to measure resistance, continuity, diode checks, AC/DC voltage and AC/DC current. There are advance multimeter in the market which are capable of measuring capacitance, pressure and temperature, frequency etc. To choose the best device for yourself, you have to keep in mind what is your need and application.
Limits of AC/DC Current Measurement
This is the prime thing you should consider before buying any multimeter, it is very important from the safety point of view. Using multimeter above the specified range can lead to unsafe electrical situations, mostly this happens while using cheap multimeter. It is advisable to use multimeter between the specified ranges of current.
Limits of AC/DC Voltage Measurement
A multimeter should have higher voltage rating than appliances you want to measure. This voltage rating will vary based on your country.
Diode Check Function
Almost every modern digital multimeter is loaded with diode check function which displays you forward voltage drop of the diode in the volts.
Continuity & Resistance
A basic multimeter must be able to measure continuity and resistance, basically it is measured by forcing current between two points. To perform this a component is removed from the circuit. Indication of resistance is done either via beep or turning on light on the multimeter.
Frequency
The purpose of this feature is to monitor real-time current inside specific frequency. Not every multimeter comes with this feature, if your device needs steady current then it is important to measure frequency and maintain it. You will need this feature if it is important for your device to have constant and steady flow current.
Capacitance Measurement
Few of the Digital Handheld Multimeter have this feature, there are different method to obtain the capacitance. If you want the accurate measurement of the capacitance then it is advised to use the LCR meter instead of multimeter.
Temperature
Some of the devices comes with dual and differential temperature measurement function, it provides ease of use. If you have frequent requirement of this function then you should buy the multimeter equipped with temperature measurement functions.
What Matters Most?
Here is the list of things you should check before buying multimeter.
Accuracy
Accuracy of multimeter is measured by how accurately it shows true value of property. Measurement you take are approximation of the value, so the result will have element of little uncertainty. But today’s digital multimeter are extremely accurate and minimizes the element of uncertainty.
Input Impedance
Input Impedance is very important thing to be consider if you are planning to measure sensitive circuitry. Modern handheld multimeter devices have normally 1 or greater than 1 Megohm input impedance, in simple terms when multimeter is placed for measurement in circuits it will have little impact on the performance of circuit.
RMS Convertor
RMS stands for root mean square, it is process of converting signal into direct current signal of same value. This can be very complicated process. The high end multimeter have this feature equipped. If you need to measure non-linear loads which are normally found in the electronic controllers than this is the feature you have to have.
Resolution
Resolution of digital multimeter is smallest change that a multimeter can detect. The resolution may change based on the range you’ve selected on the device, for most accurate results you should select lowest possible range.
Digits
Everyone is familiar with concept of digit. Normally multimeters have 41/2 digits, which means it can display 4 full digits and 1 half digit. There are different types of multimeter variant available in the market, you can choose one based on your needs.
Advance Features of Multimeter
This are the features which are included in some advance multimeters, this are designed for especially for electrician and technicians for very specific uses. Check if your use falls under any of the mentioned features.
Data Logging
This feature collects data of your measurements and provide general trend over duration. This is mainly used for analysis purposes, checking the progress via comparing the past data. It is needed while installing or repairing the ventilation, heating or air conditionings.
Graphic Functions
If you work with nonlinear AC waveforms or you want measure AC in real-time then this is the function you must have. Multimeter with this functions comes with graphical displays which can show you measurements in real-time.
Smart Ohm
Smart Ohm works by examining two different currents to find out if there is any offset voltage in the circuit. By using smart ohm you can avoid errors and have accurate measurements.
Low Pass Filters
It is an extremely useful function for accurately measuring frequency and voltage of VFD. It is designed to not allow unnecessary voltage above 1 kHz while determining frequency and voltage.
Safety Check
While purchasing Handheld Digital Multimeters many people don’t bother about checking the safety standards that device follows. It is very important to consider to check if the multimeter is passed by safety standards or not. This are the list of points which you need to be aware before buying a multimeter.
Safety Certifications
This is the point which distinguishes good manufacturer from the irresponsible manufacturer. There are different independent safety certification firms from which a manufacturer should obtain certificates. Below is the images of various safety symbols which is trustworthy and a multimeter should have.
Voltage Ratings
There is a huge margin in commercial voltage ratings and household voltage ratings, you should purchase the multimeter which can measure the maximum voltage that might present on the circuit you wanted to measure.
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