Last Update: 10 Jan 2021
Best Budget Multimeter Reviews
AstroAI Digital Multimeter
Best Choice
Digital Clamp Meter
Best Value
Neoteck Digital Multimeter
Premium Pick
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Are you having a hard time considering the perfect budget multimeter? Then you are in the exact spot. Here all of your inquiries will be answered properly. After genuine judgment, we have found the best budget multimeter which will be suitable for you. Just stay tuned with us and all of your dithering will vanish.
From rookies to experts- this economical measuring apparatus will serve your purposes by saving your penny. From conducting electrical tests to measuring basic electrical parameters, you can rely on this device at an affordable price.
Read More Our Related Article:
Top 10 Best Multimeter Under 50
How We Wrote This Review
Our skilled team was investigating several budget-friendly multimeters to find out the appropriate meter among many brands. We had managed the essential tests with 17 multimeters to validate their quality. We also analyzed 148 customer’s reviews and perspectives. After 48 hours of experimentation, we have made a typescript of our article. This was certified by 5 expert electricians. Thus, we classified the consummate budget multimeters.
Top 7 Best Budget Multimeter Review
- BEST CHOICE
1
AstroAI Digital Multimeter
- BEST CHOICE
The AstroAI multimeter has been designed to be used safely and troubleshoot the various electrical problems accurately. It is very easy to operate. It can be used for measuring current, voltage, and resistance, as well as continuity, transistor, and diode testing. It comes with a cheap price. You don’t have to hold the whole time when you’re using it as its grip is around the edge. It also has a kickstand on the back.
This is a tool that meets all of your presumptions. You’ll be able to read the data in a low light space because of its backlit LCD display. This gadget will not be burnt because of overload with the benefits of double fuse protection. It is the best cheap multimeter in the market right now.
Key Features:
- Troubleshoot safely and accurately.
- Inbuilt kickstand for smooth use.
- Large digital display.
- Sampling speed is 2x per second.
Specification:
Max Display: 1999, 3 1/2 digits
DC /AC Voltage: 20V /200V /500V
DC Current: 2000μA /20mA
Battery: 1 x 9V 6F22
- PROS
- Protective rubber for drop protection.
- Square wave output.
- Easily operated.
- Useable in dim light.
- CONS
- Careful observation is needed whether the multimeter is set on the exact mode before testing.
- BEST VALUE
2
Digital Clamp Meter Meterk 6000 Counts
- BEST VALUE
The Meterk digital meter has come into the market with some advanced features. You don’t have to be tense of getting an electric shock, this gear has a Non-contact voltage observation function accompanied by a sensor to identify voltage without touching any cables. As well as it also lights up with a sound alarm if it identifies the AC voltage (6-600v).
This is a multi-purpose clamp meter with a function of True RMS auto-range to make an exposure of AC/DC voltage, AC current, duty cycle, capacitance, and resistance measurement accurately. You have to just pull the trigger to operate this tool and it’ll take the reading quickly and easily.
Key Features:
- Non-contact voltage identifying sensor.
- Live line test function.
- Low voltage mark.
- Flashlight helps in suitable AC current measures.
Specification:
Earth ground: 1000V DC or 750V AC
Current: 6A /60A /600A
AC Voltage Range: 6V – 60V
DC Voltage Range: 6V /60V /600V
- PROS
- True RMS auto-ranging capability.
- Overload protection.
- Portable and small.
- Auto power off after 15 minutes.
- Inexpensive.
- CONS
- To get the fast non-contact response you need to be close to the object.
- PREMIUM PICK
3
Neoteck Auto Ranging Digital Multimeter
- PREMIUM PICK
This Neoteck multimeter has been designed with a backlight enabled LCD display using the word high 15mm. This cheap digital multimeter comes with high-performance accomplishment. The meter accompanied by a holster gives the main body a high resistance in opposition to the shock of a drop. 2000μF Capacitance and 200KHz Frequency Measurement make this tool a great choice.
Non-slippery and soft plastic material help with drop protection. The back stand makes the device placed at a 45-degree angle so that it becomes easy to read the screen easily. It includes 2 test leads and 2 banana plugs to alligator clip cable.
Key Features:
- Nice protective orange shell with built-in stand.
- The PTC protection for resistance.
- CE rated.
- 9V battery included.
Specification:
Capacitance: 4 – 2000uF
Frequency: 0.1 – 200kHz
Resistance: 200ohm/ 20Kohm/ 200Kohm
DC /AC Current: 200uA/ 20mA/ 200mA/ 10A
- PROS
- Soft plastic material.
- Drop protection.
- Easy screen reading at a 45-degree angle.
- Overload protection.
- CONS
- Smaller in size but give accurate readings.
4
Thsinde Auto Ranging Digital Multimeter
Thsinde digital multimeter has been designed in a concern of safety and accuracy for everyone. You can be an engineer, an electrician or a common person sitting at home. This gear is suitable for everyone in their fixed budget. This multimeter delivers the result fast with some really special features like Intelligence IC chips, true RMS, and AUTO-Ranging for diodes and transistors. It is one of the best inexpensive multimeter in the market.
The screened reading of this gadget is more accurate then all of in the market and this multimeter can easily solve the household apparatus and circuit issues. This instrument sensor lights up when it identifies voltage greater than 700V(RMS).
Key Features:
- Continuity can be tested up to 20000 µF.
- Wide range of tests.
- True RMS for measuring both AC Current and Voltage.
- Digital LCD Backlight Display.
- Polymer battery cell.
Specification:
Resistance accuracy: 600Ω/ 6KΩ/ 60KΩ/ 600KΩ
Frequency Range: 10HZ/ 100HZ/ 10KHZ/ 100KHZ
Display: 6000 counts
DC/AC Voltage: 600mV/ 6V/ 60V/ 600V
- PROS
- Clear reading in low light.
- Over-range protection for all ranges.
- Very handy.
- Appropriate auto-ranging advantage.
- CONS
- For getting continuous accuracy over the year you have to change the lead often.
- It can be complicated for simple tasks if you don’t go through the manual.
5
INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
The most excellent thing about this device is that anyone can use it easily. If you are finding the best affordable multimeter, then this is the perfect option for you. It can be used for tactful reading in some significant projects as well as for checking the battery health and devices.
This device gives you transparent information with its large digital display. Three LED lights are placed on the front side of this meter in which each means a definite level. The back stand is an elegant addition to this.
Key Features:
- Color-coded LEDs for a quick check of battery.
- Single settled resistance function.
- Rubber corner guards.
- Automatically selects the suitable range.
Specification:
Diode test: 2V
Resistance: 200Ω/ 20MΩ
AC current: 20mA/ 200mA
AC voltage: 2V/ 600V
- PROS
- Cost-efficient.
- Quite adaptable.
- Reliable and exact reading.
- Compacted structure.
- CONS
- At that moment when auto-shutdown goes activated, the beeps can be annoying.
6
Crenova MS8233D Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
If you are concerned about 100% safety assurance, then this Crenova MS8233D multimeter is a solution for you. It offers 100% safety assurance with a built-in double fuse. As well as it has overload protection on all ranges. Its display is designed in a way so that you can read clearly in low light areas. You can use this tool to memorize the value screened on the display by pressing simply the ‘Hold’ button.
To take the reading precisely you can take the help of its supportive stand to make it stable. A 9V battery comes with this gadget and you have to install on this correctly if you don’t want to leave this apparatus on a strike. All these features make it a good budget multimeter.
Key Features:
- 100% safety assurance.
- 3 1/2-digit LCD display with Backlight.
- Maximum value hold capacity.
- Assisting back stand.
Specification:
Power Supply: 9V battery
Frequency: 20kHz
DC /AC Voltage: 200mV/ 2V/ 20V/ 200V
DC /AC Current: 200μA/ 2000μA/ 20mA/ 200mA/ 10A
Safety Standards: IEC 610101, CAT II 600V
- PROS
- Accurate measurement.
- 3 times per second sampling speed.
- Function switching option.
- Thermistor protection.
- CONS
- This device will go on a strike if you forget to implement the battery before testing.
7
Klein Tools MM400 Multimeter
Klein digital multimeter helps you to organize a safe and accurate electrical board. This model has some measurement options that are required for professional electricians. It can measure AC/ DC voltage, AC/ DC current, resistance. With the auto-ranging feature, this measuring device can also measure temperature and capacitance.
This meter includes test leads, thermocouple with adapter and batteries. The accessible battery compartment makes it more comfortable for changing the batteries when a low battery indicates. It is very suitable for use in basic conditions. It is the best value multimeter among the seven budget multimeters we have selected.
Key Features:
- Low battery indication system.
- Safety rating of CAT III 600V.
- Drop-resistant up to 3.3 feet.
- Measures up to 600 voltage.
Specification:
AC/ DC voltage: 600V
AC/ DC current: 10A
Resistance: 40 MΩ
Battery: Alkaline
- PROS
- Auto-ranging capability.
- Efficient measurement advantage.
- Comes with a K – type thermocouple.
- Money-saving machine.
- CONS
- There is no backlight option on the LCD screen.
- This meter is not quite suitable for measuring continuity.
Things to Consider Before Buying Budget Multimeter
There are many multimeters with different kinds of specifications. A customer is the one who should decide the right decision to select the device with their requirements. Some customers buy their meter without any consideration. But smart customers first listed their requirements. Then they will go for buying the best budget multimeter. If a customer considers some important factors given below before buying a multimeter, he will be the gainer.
Price
One of the most important questions is, how much a multimeter? A price has a direct and indirect impact while purchasing a product. We always want a high-quality product at a reasonable price. On the other hand, price defines the product quality.
In the market, there is the cheapest and expensive measuring apparatus with some features that can fulfill a customer’s requirement. As a customer, you should decide which gadget you should select with what price range.
For professional use, it will be better to select an expensive one rather than the cheapest one. For non-professional users, cheaper priced multimeters can be a good option to use.
Characteristics
Features are nothing but a statement by which anyone can get an overall idea and view of a product. Before buying a product, the feature is one of the most considerable things that a customer should check. After price, the feature is the second thing a customer can be attracted by. Customers should criss cross their need to form the given feature list.
There are lots of multimeters with different kinds of features. Customers can select a meter with their specific requirements. This device has many attractive features like auto-ranging, measuring AC and DC voltage, the ability to select a series of voltage, measure ohms, etc.
Stability and Suitability
If a product has brand value then it contains these two qualities. A multimeter with a renowned brand over which a customer can easily rely on. Stability and suitability these two features added values to a product that creates it loyal to the customers. So before buying a meter, we should consider these two qualities. These two things are maintained by a branded multimeter company.
Security
Safety always comes first. When the product is related to electronic devices first thing we have to ensure safety. This kind of product like a multimeter can occur in many dangerous incidents. If a Customer selects a high-quality meter then it will be able to tolerate these types of threats. It will also make sure to avoid this precarious situation.
Measurement of Temperature
A multimeter with dual differential temperature functions, allows a customer to measure two temperatures instantaneously. If a customer needs frequent temperature monitoring then they can select a meter with this feature.
Correctness and Determination
For any multimeter as well as digital instruments, these given two factors are very important. It is necessary to differentiate between two aspects and regulate whether the performance is satisfactory or not. For professional uses, accuracy and resolution are the vital factors that a customer should consider before buying it.
Auto or Manual Range
Customers can buy manual range multimeters if they are beginners. Also, they can choose manual range meters if they want to save money sacrificing some advanced features. Otherwise, the auto-ranging meter will be the best choice to buy. This meter selects its range by itself. An auto-ranging meter is very simple to use. But the manual range multimeter is difficult to operate because a customer has to deal with many values and components.
Battery Time
Before buying a multimeter, checking on battery duration is very important when the customers are regular users. Customers should not waste their money by buying a meter below 1000hrs battery time. Because of the decent battery time for this apparatus is 1000hrs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
If the battery is down, can the clamp used on the device measure negative battery capability?
Answer: Clamp meter of unit-T 210E is one that can do DC amps and can be used for the measurement of negative battery capability. But that clamp meter that is asked in the question is for AC clamps only.
Is there any option to replace multimeter batteries?
Answer: Yes, It can be replaced by new batteries. It will work well as well as the old one. For the best performance, avoid using batteries that past their termination. The battery replacement option is installed so that the multimeters can be used for a long time.
Which safety rated multimeter is suitable to test the bad circuit breakers at the electrical panel?
Answer: Only CAT 3 rated meters are suitable to test bad circuit breakers at the electric panel. If anyone wants to measure any live breaker panel then they need CAT 3. It means the internal security features of the device is enough to handle the higher potential voltages.
In a multimeter what are the basic differences between the Min/max and Peak modes?
Answer: From the moment the Min/Max record mode started, the multimeter measures the highest and lowest reading. On the other hand, the peak modes measure a signal’s positive and negative peak voltage. To get a precise reading, they need the signal’s reading of minimal and maximum to be 200 to 350 long or longer.
What are the common things that cause DMM failure?
Answer: Some situations lead to DMM letdown. Like, the Connection with ac power source whereas test leads has to be plugged into current jacks and also resistance mode. We should be careful about this situation. Contact to high voltage floating and beyond extreme input limitations (voltage and current) are also caused by DMM failure.
What are the things a user should follow for safety purposes before using a multimeter?
Answer: Choosing a proper meter and environment in which meter will be used, is the first measurement for safety. Users should additionally read all the rules before using multimeters. Users also should give attention to the product’s warning and caution.
What are the types of DMM protection circuits?
Answer: There are two types of DMM protection circuits. One is protection with automatic recovery and the other one is protection without automatic recovery. Some meters have an electrical system that identifies an overload condition and defends the meter until the condition no longer exists. Some meters will perceive an excess condition and shield the meter, but will not recover until the operator operates on the meter.
What are the important things that make a good multimeter?
Answer: There are many attractive features of a multimeter which can be very much useful for its customers. Auto-ranging is one of them. It is very useful if the customer knows how to use it. The auto-ranging meter can select a series of voltage, measure AC and DC voltage also ohms. These are the considerable things that make a good measuring device.
Final Verdict
A multimeter is a kind of device that is necessary for everyone whether he is an engineer, a student, an electrician or any common person. It does not only provide accurate reading but also it helps to prevent accidental shock. Several brands in the market produce this device. Some of them are pricey because of their versatile features. These pricey devices are mostly prescribed for professionals.
Also, there are some measuring tools in budget price. These tools differentiate each other conforming to their measurement extent features. Current, voltage, resistance, frequency are the ideal parameters that all kinds of multimeters can measure. Taking into consideration all these points, we have classified the top seven budget multimeters.
The main scheme of this article is to guide its readers. All the features and benefits of each of the products have been sorted with proper justifications. In case you are a learner then this article can be the compatible blend for you. We are here to clear up all your doubts. You can use our article for knowing the proper uses and characteristics of a multimeter while choosing your desired device. So, no more hitch, no more dilemma. Now, select your product and order it here.
