Multimeters vary in capabilities, but most models measure resistance, voltage, current, continuity, and other important aspects of electrical components. For those willing to DIY, 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.
However, finding the best multimeter for you can depend on a variety of factors, including how often you use it and what the primary purpose is. Portable handheld multimeters that are only intended for measuring small voltages can be found for less than $20, however, durable models with a variety of readout options and a digital display can sometimes cost upwards of $200.
To help you narrow down your choices and find the best multimeter for you, we researched the best products on the market. Overall, our top choice for heavy-duty use is the Fluke Digital Multimeter that’s easy to use and has non-contact voltage detection. Read our buying guide below for more of our top picks. You can also find more important information and shopping for tools in our tool buying guide.
Top 7 Multimeters
- Fluke Digital Multimeter: Best Multimeter Overall
- Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter: Best Clamp Meter
- AstroAI Digital Multimeter: Most Versatile Multimeter
- Milwaukee Digital Multimeter: Best Heavy-Duty
- AstroAI Multimeter: Best Basic Digital
- Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter: Best Analog Multimeter
- Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter: Best Value
Compare Top Multimeters
| Product | Display | Batteries | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
Fluke Digital MultimeterCheck Price | Digital | AAA (x1) | 1.2 pounds |
Klein Tools Digital Clamp MeterCheck Price | Digital | AA (x3) | 0.5 pounds |
AstroAI Digital MultimeterCheck Price | Digital | Lithium (x1) | 1.3 pounds |
Milwaukee Digital MultimeterCheck Price | Digital | AA (x2) | 1.4 pounds |
AstroAI MultimeterCheck Price | Digital | Lithium (x1) | 0.4 pounds |
Gardner Bender Analog MultimeterCheck Price | Analog | AA (x1) | 0.8 pounds |
Klein Tools MM325 MultimeterCheck Price | Digital | AAA (x2) | 0.5 pounds |
Best Multimeter Overall
Fluke Digital Multimeter
This high-end compact Fluke multimeter fits in one hand. It also uses unique technology to make measuring voltage easier. For example, you don’t have to make contact with the circuit for testing; you just have to put it nearby. We also like that it can tell if you’re measuring AC currents or DC currents, so you don’t have to select one on the dial.
Pros and Cons of Fluke Digital Multimeter
- Features a digital readout
- Runs on a single AAA battery
- Has a low input impedance to help reduce false readings
- Lacks clear instructions
- Price point is on the higher end
What People Are Saying About The Fluke Digital Multimeter
Our team found that most users valued the durability of this digital multimeter. They also stated that it provided fast, consistent, and accurate readings. However, we encountered a handful of reviews in which users mentioned that the included instructions were unclear and some had issues with the screen being hard to read.
Best Clamp Meter
Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter
With its hands-free clamp design, we were pleased to see that this high-quality multimeter measures voltage, resistance, frequency, temperature, continuity, and more. To ensure accurate readings every time, the device uses TRMS (True Root Mean Squared) measurement technology.
Pros and Cons of Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter
- Features a digital readout
- Weights a light 0.5 pounds
- Has an optional magnetic hanger for hands-free operation
- Requires three AA batteries
- Screen may be difficult for some to read
What People Are Saying About The Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter
Several reviewers we found 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, and others said the automatic shutoff activated too quickly.
Most Versatile Multimeter
AstroAI Digital Multimeter
This digital multimeter from AstroAI uses a lithium-ion battery and features a kickstand and a magnet in case you want to conduct hands-free testing. Our team found that the rubber sleeve mitigates slipping and cushions the instrument from breaking if you drop it.
Pros and Cons of AstroAI Digital Multimeter
- Has an easy-read digital readout
- Comes with a hanging magnet and kickstand
- Runs on a rechargeable lithium battery
- Lead tips may be too small for some common jobs
- Is heavier than some other multimeters in this review
What People Are Saying About The AstroAI Digital Multimeter
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, we did see some customers say that the tips of the leads were too small to fit into standard wall sockets, while some complained of inaccurate leads.
Best Heavy-Duty
Milwaukee Digital Multimeter
This heavy-duty tool is perfect for either residential or commercial use. It features TRMS (true root mean squared) measurements with a bright LED screen that makes it easy to identify. Furthermore, this multimeter has an AC range that extends from six millivolts to 600 volts and a DC range that goes from 600 millivolts to 600 volts, and a durable rubber grip.
Pros and Cons of Milwaukee Digital Multimeter
- Can also measure frequency
- Detects continuity at less than 30 ohms
- Has a five-year warranty
- Has a high price point
- Some customers said the rubber coating peeled off
What People Are Saying About The Milwaukee Digital Multimeter
Our team found that customers who gave this product a positive review were pleased with its ease of use, durable construction, and accurate readings. However, some reviewers had issues with it not reading resistance properly, and others found that the rubber grip peeled too easily.
Best Basic Digital
AstroAI Multimeter
Our team found this straightforward model from AstroAI to be simple yet versatile. To make using this device easier and safer, it features a battery indicator that tells you when it is at low battery. It also has overload protection that prevents electricity from damaging the meter or circuit or injuring the user.
Pros and Cons of AstroAI Multimeter
- Features a digital readout
- Runs on a rechargeable lithium battery
- Has a double ceramic fuse that protects from overloading
- Accuracy of readout may degrade with higher voltages
- Battery indicator may falter occasionally so you may not always know when you have low battery levels
What People Are Saying About The AstroAI Multimeter
Our verified buyer research showed that most reviewers were impressed with the number of features that this multimeter offered, especially given its relatively low price point. Conversely, we found a minority of users that said while the multimeter read low voltages well, it struggled to produce accurate readings for higher voltages, and others said it didn’t hold up well over time.
Best Analog Multimeter
Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter
Pros and Cons of Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter
- Features a color-coded analog readout
- Low price point is very competitive
- Has a 13-position rotary dial
- Accuracy of readout may degrade with higher voltages
- Analog design may not offer as much information as higher-end digital models
What People Are Saying About The Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter
Our team discovered that, compared to a digital multimeter, customers appreciated the smooth, instant response from this analog device. Users also valued its compact, portable size. However, we also encountered a few reviews that indicated the device struggles to accurately test higher voltages, and others thought the probe was too short.
Best Value
Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter
For those who want a step up from a budget multimeter, this product features versatile functionality that measures AC and DC voltage up to 600 volts and 10 amperes of DC current. This multimeter also stands out for its lead-protection alert system that indicates proper test lead placement for enhanced accuracy.
Pros and Cons of Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter
- Can also measure frequency
- Detects continuity at less than 30 ohms
- Has a five-year warranty
- Has a high price point
- Some customers said the rubber coating peeled off
What People Are Saying About The Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter
We found that customers who gave this multimeter good reviews generally liked that it produced consistent, accurate readings, had a bright display, and its compact, but durable design. On the other hand, some others disagreed about the display, feeling it was hard to read. One customer also had a problem with the automatic shutoff of the backlight.
What To Know Before Buying a Multimeter
A basic multimeter is a worthy addition to any tool bag. Before you buy one, our team thinks you should consider several different factors to select the right electrical tester for your needs. First, you’ll need to understand the differences between a digital and an analog multimeter. From there, look at the various sizes to see how big of a device you need.
After you’ve chosen your type and size, you can start examining specific features such as the multimeter’s voltage testing capability, resistance and continuity measuring, and battery. Read our buying guide below for more information on how to choose the best multimeter for your home.
What are the different types of multimeters?
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 and require a manual range, but they’re usually more affordable.
- Digital: Digital meters display the results of your test on an LCD screen, making it easy to read and typically feature auto-ranging, which helps save time and makes for more accurate measurements. Digital multimeters are likely a better option for beginners.
What size multimeter should you buy?
The size of a multimeter affects its function.
- Bench/box: This is the type of multimeter that electricians, engineers, and serious hobbyists 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 voltage detection for AC/DC voltage, limiting its functionality.
How does voltage testing work in a multimeter?
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.
Do multimeters test 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.
What other measurements can multimeters test?
Some multimeters measure more than just voltage and resistance. You can also find models that test for temperature, current, diodes, transistors, and other measurements.
Multimeter Components
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 typically has a backlight and 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.
Multimeter FAQs
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 $100–$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 volts, 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.
How We Selected the Best Multimeters
To provide our readers with the best multimeter recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of multimeters with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, learned from subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published numerous tool reviews, from cordless drills and impact drivers to tape measures and laser levels.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.