5 Best Multimeters (2023 Guide)

Multimeters vary in capabilities, but most models measure voltage, current, continuity, resistance, and other important aspects of electrical components. Using this tool can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run because you can diagnose and repair wiring problems on your own instead of paying an electrician to do so.

In this review and buyer’s guide, we compare the best multimeters available today, discuss what to look for when buying, and answer some common consumer questions.

Top 5 Multimeters

• Best Battery Life: Fluke Digital Multimeter
• Best Clamp: Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter
• Most Versatile: AstroAI Digital Multimeter
• Best Basic Digital Multimeter: AstroAI Multimeter
• Best Analog Multimeter: Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter

Best Battery Life: Fluke Digital Multimeter

Key Features

• Features a digital readout
• Weighs 1.2 pounds
• ‎Requires one AAA battery

What Customers Are Saying

Users valued the durability of this digital multimeter. They also stated that it provided fast, consistent, and accurate readings. However, some users mentioned that the included instructions were unclear.

Best Clamp: Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter

Key Features

• Features a digital readout
• Weighs 0.5 pounds
• Requires three AA batteries

What Customers Are Saying

Several reviewers characterized this multimeter as well-made, as it provided accurate readings and was user-friendly. They also mentioned that the clamp was durable and rugged. However, some customers struggled to read the measurements on the multimeter’s screen.

Most Versatile: AstroAI Digital Multimeter

Key Features

• Features a digital readout
• Weighs 1.3 pounds
• Use one built-in lithium battery

What Customers Are Saying

Despite its many features, several customers found this multimeter to be intuitive to use. Though it gave most users accurate readings, customers said that the manufacturer’s customer service team was responsive and helpful if theirs didn’t. Negatively, some customers said that the tips of the leads were too small to fit into standard wall sockets.

Best Basic Digital Multimeter: AstroAI Multimeter

Key Features

• Features a digital readout
• Weighs 0.4 pounds
• Uses one built-in lithium battery

What Customers Are Saying

The majority of reviewers were impressed with the number of features that this multimeter offered, especially given its relatively low price point. Conversely, some users said that while the multimeter read lower voltages well, it struggled to produce accurate readings for higher voltages.

Best Analog Multimeter: Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter

Key Features

• Features an analog readout
• Weighs 0.8 pounds
• Requires one AA battery

What Customers Are Saying

Compared to a digital multimeter, customers appreciated the smooth, instant response from this analog device. Users also valued its compact, portable size. However, some reviewers couldn’t get the device to test higher voltages.

Buyer’s Guide for Multimeters

A basic multimeter is a worthy addition to any tool bag. Before you buy one, consider the factors below to select the right electrical tester for your needs.

Type

Most multimeters have a digital display, but there are some analog versions available.

• Analog: This type of multimeter has a measurement chart built into the display. When you’re testing an item, a needle points to the proper measurement on the chart. Analog multimeters are more difficult to read, but they’re usually more affordable.
• Digital: This type of multimeter displays the results of your test on a screen, making it easy to read.

Size

The size of a multimeter affects its function.

• Bench/box: This is the type of multimeter that electricians and engineers use. They have more ports and settings to test more items.
• Handheld: This is the most common type of multimeter. It has a rectangular shape with three ports and a setting dial. Since handheld multimeters have all of the measurement capabilities you need for around-the-home use, we included this type in our review.
• Pen: You can hold a pen-shaped multimeter in one hand, It has a single test probe for non-contact AC detection, limiting its functionality.

Voltage

Every multimeter should be able to test voltage. You should have the option to change the amount of voltage as well as switch between AC and DC voltages. Your outlets use AC voltage, while your computers and some other devices use DC voltage.

Resistance and Continuity

Your multimeter should also be able to test ohm, which measures continuity versus resistance in a circuit. For example, if you’re testing a broken wire that doesn’t have current passing through it, your resistance measurement should say “infinite.” On the other hand, if you’re testing a properly functioning wire, your resistance measurement is going to be low.

Other Measurements

Some multimeters measure more than just voltage and resistance. You can also find models that test for temperature, current, diodes, transistors, and other measurements.

Components of a Multimeter

Multimeters are useful tools, but you may be wondering exactly how they work. Here are some of the most important components of a multimeter that help it operate:

• Display: The display is located on the front of the tool. It’s either digital on digital devices or quartz crystal on analog devices. It can display both numbers and letters.
• Dial: This knob is usually located in the center of the device. You can turn it left or right to change the measurement settings.
• Ports: These are located on the front of the multimeter. There’s one port that’s labeled “common” or “COM,” which is where you connect the negative side of the probe. You can also find a “positive” port that’s used for voltage measurements.
• Wires: Multimeters come with at least one red and one black wire. One end of the wire attaches to one of the ports on the multimeter, and the other end attaches to the item you’re testing.
• Probes: The probes are the ends of the wire that attach to the item you’re testing. Multimeters usually come with several probes that you can change depending on what attaches best to the item you’re measuring. One common type of probe is an alligator clip.

Frequently Asked Questions About Multimeters

How do I know if I can test a particular item with my multimeter?

The multimeter’s maximum and current voltage ratings should be greater than the voltage of the item you plan to measure. If you use a multimeter with a voltage that isn’t greater than the item’s voltage, you risk breaking the multimeter or shocking yourself.

How much do multimeters cost?

The cost of a multimeter is mostly tied to its size. A smaller pen-shaped model costs about $25-$40. Depending on how many settings it has, a handheld one costs $10-$200. Finally, a bench or box multimeter can cost upwards of $1,500.

What do the black and red colors of the probe wires mean?

When you’re measuring voltage, a black wire usually indicates “ground,” “common,” or “negative,” while a red wire usually indicates “live.” You don’t have to follow these guidelines when you’re measuring current, but it’s safer to do so to ensure that you don’t mix up the wires when you go to measure voltage.

Do I need to maintain my multimeter?

You don’t have to clean your multimeter, but we recommend storing it in a safe place. Most multimeters come with a carrying case for an added layer of protection. If you have a digital multimeter, note that you need to replace its battery every so often.

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