Best Digital Multimeters of 2021 – Review and Buying Guide

Digital Multimeters are one of the most widely used tools by electronics hobbyists and electronics professionals. Digital Multimeters can perform several tests including, resistance, voltage, current, and temperature. We have listed and reviewed the 10 best digital multimeters of 2021 in this article.

Multimeter dates back to 1920, when an engineer from British Post Office combined multiple tools, for measuring current, voltage, and resistance, into one universal tool, named multimeter. He was frustrated because he has to carry different tools to measures the basic current, voltage, and resistance while working on telecommunication lines.

Early multimeters were analogue. They had used a needle, dial, and coil to measure the current, amperes, and ohms. But things changed and in 1977, Fluke Corporation introduced a digital multimeter. Digital multimeters use digital circuits and display to report the readings precisely. Nowadays, multimeters are available in the form of digital multimeter kits.

Measuring amperes, volts, and ohms is the basic functionality of a multimeter. However, modern digital multimeters are much smarter and more functional than this. They can measure the frequency, temperature, duty cycle, remaining battery, and much more. These are also more precise and cheaper to produce than analogue multimeters.

There are tens of digital multimeter brands which manufacture digital multimeters. We have reviewed 16 Best Multimeter Brands.

10 Best Digital Multimeters [Reviews]

A quick comparison of all selected digital multimeters is given in the table below.

1. AstroAI DM6000AR Digital Multimeter

This digital multimeter is an allrounder. It has many testing options, and it marks all the necessary boxes which may be required by an all-rounder and an experienced professional. It is also a budget-friendly digital multimeter. It can measure the resistance, current, voltage, capacitance, and temperature.

This outperforms all digital multimeters in accuracy, precision, affordability, and functionality. This digital multimeter also comes with auto-ranging. Auto-ranging enables the device to adjust itself according to the input and switch circuits from amps to milliamps and vice versa. The multimeter is TRMS, which means it can identify several different signals and produce accurate results. The multimeter is also safety certified with CAT-II and CAT-III certification. All these features make it the best digital multimeter for electronics.

Features

• This digital multimeter is very decent and affordable despite having tons of pro features.
• Data hold function allows a regarding stick on the screen for a while, this function is present in the DM6000AR Digital Multimeter.
• The package of AstroAI digital multimeter comes with a multifunction socket, this multifunction socket allows the attachment of different components for testing purposes.
• This digital multimeter promotes hands-free operation. It comes with a magnetic strap that can be attached to any metal surface. It also has a kickstand built into it.
• This digital multimeter is auto-ranging. Its means it has the necessary circuits which can detect and auto-select the corresponding range.
• TRMS is included in the name of this digital multimeter. TRMS stands for True Root Mean Square. This means that a TRMS digital multimeter is better at identifying different signals than a non-TRMS, hence the accuracy of the digital TRMS multimeter is better than others.
• AstroAI DM6000AR comes with a large backlit LCD. The LCD can display up to 6000 counts and this is represented by its name.
• The digital multimeter is protected by fuses at all ranges. The digital multimeter is safety ratted at CAT-III.
• The auto power-off function is also loaded in the multimeter for battery saving. This function triggers automatically and shutdown the multimeter if left unused.

Technical Specification

• Safety Rating: CAT-II at 1000V and CAT-III at 600V
• Max DCV: 1000V
• Max ACV: 750V
• Sample Rate: 2
• Max DCC: 10A
• Max ACC: 10A
• Capacitance: 60mF
• Resistance: 60M Ohms
• Range: Auto
• Temperature Range: Max: 1370C, Min: -40C

Supported Tests

• Temperature
• AC Voltages
• DC Voltages
• AC Amperes
• DC Amperes
• Resistance
• Capacitance
• Continuity
• Diode
• Transistor

 

2. KAIWEETS HT118 Digital Multimeter

The second multimeter in our list is also an affordable but all-rounder digital multimeter. It is sturdy and durable. Rugged sides make it perfect for holding it in hands. It has decent ratting and an affordable price tag. It comes with a backlit LCD and supports all common tests.

This digital multimeter measures all types of waves with decent accuracy using TRMS technology. This is considered a good multimeter for day-to-day use by a professional or by a tech lover. Affordability and useability make it the second-best digital multimeter

Features

• This multimeter can is versatile and can be used in automobiles as it offers automobile testing along with professional testing.
• All functions are underlying specific single-purpose buttons. This makes the multimeter easy to use. All buttons are properly labeled on Kaiweets Digital Multimeter.
• Kaiweets has a large liquid crystal display with a backlit option.
• This is an auto range digital multimeter.
• It also has the state of art NCV: non-contact voltage technology. This technology allows the digital multimeter to detect and measure the voltages without touching the circuit or wires. This function can measure the voltages in value of thousands.
• This digital multimeter has a removable back. A removable back compartment allows the easy replacement of the fuses and battery.
• Handsfree operations are also supported in this multimeter. This is possible due to the back kickstand and probe holder.
• Data hold, min and max capabilities are also available in this multimeter.
• The icing on the cake, this digital multimeter also has a flashlight for working in dark areas as well as LED lights around the jacks. Jack lights turn on to guide the user about plugging the probes depending upon the selected range.

Technical Specifications

• Auto Range
• True RMS
• Safety Certification: CAT-II and CAT-III
• Max DC/AC Current: 10A
• Max DC Voltages: 1000V
• Max AC Voltages: 750V
• Resistance: 60M Ohms
• Capacitance: 100MF

Supported Tests

• AC/DC Voltages
• AC/DC Amperes
• Resistance
• Capacitance
• Non-Contact Voltage
• Continuity
• Diode
• Transistor

 

3. Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter

Fluke is a very popular and most sought-after brand. In fact, it is the Fluke who invented the first-ever digital multimeter. After the invention, it was adopted by other companies and the market gets flooded with digital multimeters. However, Fluke is the only company that has premium multimeters with quality and great precision.

If you ever want a multimeter that is premium in build quality and accuracy is perfect, then Fluke must be your choice. Fluke is nearly 5x to 10x more expensive than other multimeters with the same functionality but Fluke digital multimeters are more durable and accurate. So if we can ignore the price, then this Fluke 117 is the best digital multimeter we can buy from the market. It does support all types of basic tests and has a large LCD with a backlight.

Features

• Fluke 117 digital multimeter has a large LCD with a backlight.
• Being a premium digital multimeter, it has a True RMS capability and does have excellent accuracy and precision. Fluke 117 digital multimeter is the most accurate multimeter.
• Auto Ranging is also available in this multimeter. Unlike other digital multimeters, the auto-ranging is very fast and accurate.
• Fluke auto range digital multimeter is protected by an in-house fuse and it is safety ratted at CAT-III 600v.
• Non-Contact Voltage – NCV is branded as VoltAlert in this digital multimeter. VoltAlert has a pretty decent detection and identification capability of the multimeter.
• Fluke 117 is a durable and reliable digital multimeter.
• Fluke also offers 3 years complete warranty for this model. This means if you encounter any problem during the 3 years, Fluke will repair the digital multimeter for free or offer a replacement.

Technical Specification

• DC Volts Range: 600V
• AC Volts Range: 600V
• Fuse: 11A
• Frequency: 50 kHz
• Resistance Range: 6M Ohms
• Range: Auto
• Capacitance: 1000uF

Supported Tests

• Resistance
• Continuity
• Current and Voltages for both AC and DC
• Capacitance Test
• Diode Test
• Transistor Test

 

4. Amprobe 30XR-A Digital Multimeter

You may have attempted to find reputable digital multimeter manufacturers. If you have searched before, you must be familiar with the Amprobe digital multimeter. Amprobe is a digital multimeter brand that is both affordable and reliable. It is recommended that you use Amprobe if you want high precision but do not have a substantial budget.

The Amprobe 30XR-A is a digital multimeter with auto-ranging capabilities. It is capable of measuring in both alternating current and direct current for both industrial and professional multimeter applications. This is also an excellent choice for those who are interested in electronics as a hobby. The Amprobe 30XR-A multimeter, which is a suitable alternative to the Fluke 287 multimeter, may be found here.

Features

• Like another digital multimeter in this list, Amprobe 30XR also features an auto-ranging circuit.
• True RMS capabilities are also present in this digital multimeter.
• Data Hold (Freeze) features are also present in this multimeter.
• Amprobe 30XR-A shows a warning if the battery fell to a certain level.
• The body of the digital multimeter is protected by rubber housing, the housing protects the digital multimeter from accidental falls.
• Low battery warning is also available in this digital multimeter.
• This is a base variant, higher variant can record the data and send it to the PC via Bluetooth.
• The display is a large backlit LCD. The display has a count of 1999.
• Thermo probes are packed inside the package.
• This product is UL certified and has fuses at all ranges.
• Non Contact Voltage is also available in this multimeter.

Technical Specification

• Max AC Amp: 10A
• Max DC Amp: 10A
• Max Resistance: 20M Ohms
• Max AC Voltage: 600V
• Max DC Voltage: 600V
• NCV Range: 6,000V

Supported Test

• Current Test
• Voltage Test
• Continuity Test
• Temperature Test
• Resistance Test
• Capacitance Test

 

5. Klein Tools MM700 HVAC Digital Multimeter

MM700 Digital multimeters are the finest option among a sea of costly and high-end multimeters, according to the company. It is neither prohibitively costly nor unreasonably inexpensive. The MM700 is often regarded as the best digital multimeter available for professional enthusiasts. It is reasonably priced, has high precision, and has a plethora of functions. Professional electronics work may even be performed with this device.

This digital multimeter has limitation and can not do any industrial work which requires precise measurement.  This digital multimeter, on the other hand, is best suited for electronics hobbyists who are just starting and want to have a little fun with circuits. Klein Tools MM700 also managed to be on our list of good digital multimeters.

Every feature found in contemporary digital multimeters is present in it, including a large lighted screen and auto-ranging capabilities. It also has True RMS measurement. Klein Tools MM700 has all of the key functions that are required for an electronics multimeter, including a digital display. Klein Tools is an American brand, and all of the production is carried out in the United States of America. It is a well-known brand in the United States.

Features

• It is the only digital multimeter in our list which has both auto and manual ranging.
• AC and DC circuits for measuring voltages and currents are also present in the digital multimeter.
• Due to True RMS, MM700 digital multimeter has decent accuracy and does not fall prey to an error in measurements.
• Klein Tools MM700 digital multimeter is capable of storing minimum and maximum values of a session. It can also freeze the readings on the screen with the data hold button.
• The display is a large LCD with a backlight.
• The display of the digital multimeter has a bar graph on the screen.
• Relative reading mode is also available where reading is cross-matched.
• The multimeter is shipped with a rubber holster, battery, test probes, and user manual.

Technical Specifications

• Normal AC Amp: 6A
• Normal DC Amp: 6A
• Maximum AC/DC Amp: 10A (for Maximum 30sec)
• Maximum AC Voltages: 1000V
• Maximum DC Voltages: 1000V
• Resistance Range: 40M Ohms
• Display: 400 Count Backlit LCD
• Safety Certification: CAT-IV 600V
• Temperature Range: 0 to 1500F (-18 to 816C)
• Frequency Range: 1Hz – 500 KHz
• Capacitance: 4000uF

Supported Tests

• AC Voltage
• DC Voltage
• Resistance
• Temperature
• Capacitance
• Frequency
• Duty Cycle
• Continuity
• Diode

 

6. Innova 3340 Digital Multimeter

Innova is a company that is renowned for producing high-quality multimeters at an affordable price. The Innova 3340 is a lightweight multimeter with a lot of features. This digital multimeter is equipped with everything a skilled technician needs for the job. Despite competing with tens of thousands of other multimeters, this multimeter has risen to the top of the list of the best digital multimeters for electronics work.

This digital multimeter carries all the guns which are expected from a multimeter at this price. It comes with a rubber housing with rugged corners and probe holders. This digital multimeter has some automotive-specific tests which are very useful by auto mechanics.

Features

• Innova 3340 Digital multimeter tester has both the options of manual and auto-ranging.
• Data Freezing function is also included in this multimeter.
• It can also store the minimum and maximum reading of a session. These values can be used in data analysis and check the fluctuations.
• This digital multimeter tester is a suitable candidate for mechanics and professionals working in workshops with automobiles. It can perform ignition coil tests, starter motors tests, fuses, switches, and lights.
• Rubber edges and corners provide extended fall protection. Corners also have decent probe holders.
• This multimeter can measure the RPM of a motor or engine using inductive coils.
• Auto-power off feature is also found in this multimeter.
• Innova 3340 is protected with fuses against surges in current and voltages. The device is also safety ratted at CAT-III.

Technical Specifications

• DC/AC Voltages: 600V
• AC Frequency Bandwidth: 5KHz
• Maximum Current: 15A
• Range: Auto
• Capacitance: 9999uF
• Frequency: 2Mhz
• Temperature: Min -50C, Max 400C
• Resistance: 40M Ohms

Supported Tests

• AC/DC Current
• AC/DC Voltages
• Temperature
• Capacitance
• Frequency
• Diode
• Duty Cycle
• Sensors Tests
• Internal Resistance of Ignition Coils
• Ripple Voltage Test
• Current Drain Test
• Continuity
• Dwell Angle Measurements

 

7. Fluke 279 Fc Multimeter

With this Fluke multimeter, you will not only have the capability of a multimeter, but you’ll also have the functionality of a thermal scanner. Due to its ability to read most electrical ranges, as well as to detect and report electrical issues, it is considered to be one of the best digital multimeters in this sector. Even though it is expensive, it is more efficient than using a thermal scanner and a multimeter singly. Separate devices of a multimeter and an infrared imager are not only more costly, but they are also a tangle of cables.

Fluke 279 FC Digital Multimeter also has FC (Fluke Connect) option. This lets the users connect the digital multimeter with the PC and mobile via Bluetooth to log the data. The data logged vis FC is used in the analysis. FC mobile application allows the capture of pictures, graph formation, and thermal image storing on the mobile or PC.

As long as you overlook the price, this is a good digital multimeter for electronics experts in terms of utility, productivity, and overall quality. This multimeter can be utilized everywhere you can think of: in industry, at home, in professional repairs, and in electrical hobbies, to mention a few examples. A thermal imager is capable of detecting excessive heat and cold in a variety of working environments. As a result, the digital multimeter is very flexible and may be used in a variety of circumstances.

Features

• Thermal imaging is the biggest and noticeable feature of this digital multimeter. This allows the user to view the hot and cold areas of the object and identify the fault. Faulty cables are usefully hot and draw more power. Hence they appear hot in the thermal scan.
• Fluke 279 can store up to 100 images in its internal memory. The size of this photo is up to 102×77 pixels.
• The temperature range of the thermal image scanning is from 14F to 392F.
• Thermal images and sensed data can be uploaded to the PC and mobile phone via the Fluke Connect feature. The connection can be established using Bluetooth and WiFi.
• This is a premium and expensive multimeter. It comes with a rubber housing which provides extra protection to it. It is also ANSI drop test certified and it has a rating of 9.8ft fall without sustaining any damage.
• The display of the digital multimeter is very bright and colored. It has a screen resolution of 80×60 with a refresh rate of 4FPS.
• True RMS technology is also present in the multimeter to get accurate readings.
• Fluke 279 is auto-ranging, and it is very quick.
• Min, Max, and Relative measurement features are also included in the multimeter.
• The device is safety certified at CAT-III and CAT-IV. It also has fuses at all ranges to protect it from getting overloaded.
• It has a rechargeable and replaceable lithium-ion battery to keep the system running.
• Iflex technology is also present which allows the detection of current without being contacted to any wire or circuit.

Technical Specifications

• iFlex clamp current: 2500A
• AC/DC Voltage: 1000V
• Resistance: 25M ohms
• Capacitance: 9,999uF
• IR Camera Resolution: 102×77
• Focus Mode: Mix
• Emissivity: 0.95 Fixed
• Internal Memory: 100 Images
• IR Temperature Range: Min -10C, Max 200C

Supported Tests

• AC/DC Voltage
• AC/DC Current
• Clamp Test
• Resistance
• Continuity
• Diode Test
• Capacitance
• Frequency
• Thermal Scanning

 

8. Proster VC99 Digital Multimeter

Were you dissatisfied with our first two recommendations, of Digital Multimeter? The Proster VC99 is a multimeter that costs a tenth of the price of the Fluke while yet providing excellent performance. It is excellent for DIYers as well as those who are fresh to the field of professional mechatronics. Users must make trade-offs in terms of performance and functionality to keep costs down. Nonetheless, it is the best digital multimeter for the money. It is capable of doing all of the automobile tests that any other high-end multimeter is capable of performing.

Features

• This multimeter in our list. It is the most affordable digital multimeter which combines both functionality and affordability.
• This can be used in the automobile as well as in homes for day-to-day use and diagnosis of common electrical problems.
• The multimeter is an auto-ranging multimeter.
• Proster VC99 offers min, max, and relative reading modes. These modes come in handy when dealing with data analysis.
• This digital multimeter uses an LCD. The LCD also has a bar graph where the bar refreshes and acts as the needle of an old analog multimeter.
• VC99 is a secure digital multimeter tester and it has a fuse to protect it in case of overloading.
• The device can shut itself down if left unused for a while.

Technical Specifications

• DC Voltage Range: 100V
• AC Voltage Range: 750V
• DC/AC Ampere: 20A
• Resistance: 60M Ohms
• Temperature: Min -40C, Max 1000C
• Capacitance: 2000uF
• Sample Rate: 3
• Range: Auto/Manual

Supported Tests

• AC/DC Ampere
• AC/DC Voltage
• Resistance Test
• Frequency Test
• Capacitance
• Diode
• Continuity
• Duty Cycle

 

9. Southwire 15190T Digital Multimeter

If you think you need a data logging and coloured screen multimeter at an affordable price, then Southwire 15190T digital multimeter is for you. This multimeter has data logging functionality via Bluetooth connectivity. It comes without a thermal scanner but at the same time, it costs about 5 times less than the Fluke 279 FC digital multimeter.

Southwire 15190T not only supports data logging but it also supports micro and milliamps, this means it is practical for all professionally and tech lovers. Without any doubt, this multimeter can be labelled as the best digital multimeter for electronics and data logging. The big screen on this digital multimeter is coloured and supports the formation of different graphs on its display. The device also has internal storage which keeps track of the data if the multimeter is disconnected from the smartphone. However, in digital multimeter reviews, the users have reported that they faced problems when getting a new battery for their digital multimeter kits.

Mapp is used by Southwire for mobile connectivity. This app features the formation of graphs and keeping track of the data. This app allows the user to attach photos taken by the phone and attach them to a specific reading for reference purposes.

If we compare this side by side with Fluke 279, it leads the race with supper affordability, versatility, accuracy, and practical useability.

Features

• Large bright colored LCD for viewing graphs is present in this multimeter. The LCD has its own backlit which remains on all the time.
• Data logging capability makes this digital multimeter remains relevant to scientific tests and research.
• Bluetooth enables the live data to be transmitted and seen on the smartphone application.
• The smartphone application enables the formation of graphs and the attachment of pictures for references purposes.
• This has decent accuracy and can be regarded as the second most accurate multimeter in our list after Fluke 117.
• A detailed report about and events can be created using the application, called Mapp.
• It supports milliamps which are ideal for working with small complicated circuits like TV, Computer, Laptop, oven, etc.
• Thermocouple probes can be used in the multimeter to measure the surface temperature of any other object. The thermocouples are shipped with the package.
• An extra battery is also included in the box so that users can use it in case of an emergency.
• It has min, max, and relative reading measurement modes.
• The multimeter is protected from falls with a hard body.
• Southwire 15190T is purely an auto range digital multimeter.
• Fuses are present at all ranges to protect the internal circuit from overloading damages.
• This digital multimeter is CAT-III and CAT-IV certified at 1000V and 600V, respectively.

Technical Specifications

• Max AC/DC Voltages: 1000V
• Min AC/DC Voltages: 500mV
• Max AC/DC Ampere: 10A
• Min AC/DC Ampere: 500uA
• Resistance: From 500 to 50M Ohms
• Capacitance: From 5nF to 5000uF
• Frequency Range: From 50Hz to 10MHz
• Duty Cycle: 0.1 to 99.9%
• Temperature Range (Thermocouple Range): -200 to -1350 °C

Supported Tests

• AC Ampere
• DC Ampere
• AC Voltage
• DC Voltage
• Temperature
• Resistance
• Capacitance
• Frequency
• Transistor Test
• Continuity
• Diode Test

 

10. WeePro Vpro850L Digital Multimeter

In terms of price, it is the entry-level best digital multimeter you will find on the market, and it is also the best inexpensive multimeter. This is an excellent choice for enthusiast children and novices since it provides reasonable specifications when compared to the amount you are spending.

This digital multimeter has manual ranging. It includes an additional multifunctional socket. However, since this multimeter does not have any fuses, you should proceed with caution while using it. This is considered good multimeter for beginners.

In spite of the fact that this multimeter is one of the most affordable options in our list of the best digital multimeters for the money, it is still a valuable tool because of the following characteristics.

Features

• This digital multimeter is manual ranging, being a manual ranging is not a feature but this can help the beginners with the learning process.
• It is very affordable and probably the cheapest multimeter among all.
• Despite being cheaper, it still has a great LCD screen with a backlit function.
• It has the data hold function to freeze the reading on the screen for a certain period.
• Vpro850L comes in a rubber housing that acts as drop protection and also has a kickstand to enable hands-free operation.
• hFE socket is also available on this digital multimeter.
• WeePro offers 90 days full refund change of mind warranty and 10 years product warranty.

Technical Specifications

• DC/AC Voltage: 600V
• DC Ampere: 10A
• Ac Ampere: Not Supported
• Resistance: 2M Ohms
• Sample Rage: 3

Supported Tests

• DC Ampere
• AC/DC Voltage
• Resistance Test
• Dynatron
• Diode

 

Why Digital Multimeters [Analog Multimeter Vs Digital Multimeter]?

Analogue multimeters are still in production. They are still being used whereas such precision is not required. What is special in the digital multimeters which are not present in analogue? Here is the answer.

Reading Fluctuation

Electricity flowing through a circuit keeps changing according to the consumption of components in the circuit. This causes sudden fluctuations. Digital multimeters can record these small fluctuations in a matter of nanoseconds. On the other hand, analogue multimeters can not move the needle in just a small period and small fluctuations go unnoticed. If the flu fluctuation is significant and lasts for some seconds, the analogue multimeter can easily show the fluctuation but still, the reading won’t is accurate.

Digital Popularity

One of the main reasons of why digital multimeters are good is the fact that it is digital. With the advancement in technology, many devices and tools turned digital so do the multimeters. Digital multimeters have more precision and high screen refresh rates which make them superior to their analogue counterparts. A clear reading with decimals on the screen eliminates the need of guessing the reading from the dial. This has reduced the time to take a test.

Precision and Accuracy

Modern digital multimeters can record the data with great precision and accuracy.  Digital multimeters have great precision and multiple readings can further increase their precision. The recordings are also accurate. Accuracy is the degree to which reading is near to actual value. While the precision is the degree of closeness of multiple readings under the same circumstances. Analogue multimeters have a needle on the dial. It is always difficult to find the exact value under a needle.

Extra Features

There are several features that make it an ideal choice for many users. These features make it appealing to newcomers, DIY enthusiasts, and professional experts. Some of these features are:

• Advance Testing: Advance testing includes all the tests which are not part of a basic multimeter, these tests are:
  • Temperature Test
  • Duty Cycle Tests
  • Battery Tests
  • Diode Test
  • Continuity Test
  • Transistor Test
  • Frequency Test
  • Impedance Test
  • Logic Circuit Test
  • Capacitance Test
  • and many more
• Data Logging: Data logging is not found in all multimeters. This feature is exclusive to advance and expensive digital multimeters. This feature enables the multimeter to record the data in internal memory or external memory via Bluetooth and Wi-Fi. This collected data can be used for analysis and graphs.
• Lights: Digital Multimeters have a backlit screen and often come with a torchlight to help work in poorly lit dim areas. Some Multimeters even have a jacklight which helps the users in identifying which probe is to be inserted into which jack.
• NCV Tester: NCV stands for Non-Contact Voltage. An NCV tester allows the user to detect and estimate the voltage in a source without contact. Many digital multimeters come with this technology and it allows the detection of thousands of voltages without any risk of electrocution or damage to the digital multimeter.
• Thermal Imaging: This is another useful feature of digital multimeters. A high-end digital multimeter comes with a thermal image scanner. These scanners use an Infrared camera to differentiate between hot and cold surfaces. These digital multimeters can identify hot and cold areas and paint them dark blue for coldest and dark red for hottest on the multimeter LCD.