Place |
Name |
Characteristic in the rating |
1 | Mastech M830B | The most accurate budget tester |
2 | PROconnect DT-182 | The most compact tester |
3 | RESANTA DT830B | Best price |
4 | Bort BMM-800 | Memory mode (Hold). Stand included |
1 | UNI-T UT33A | The best tester with automatic selection of measurement limits |
2 | CEM DT-912 | The most reliable multimeter |
3 | IEK Master MAS838L | ADC double integration. Double insulation housing |
4 | Shenzhen Victor Hi-tech VC97 | Measurement of AC voltage in a wide range |
5 | TDM ELECTRIC М-838 | The most affordable meter for the "home" segment |
1 | Fluke 28-II | The best multimeter for auto electricians |
2 | Elitech MM 100 | Optimal combination of price and quality |
3 | CEM AT-9955 | The best option for a car. High accuracy |
4 | MEGEON 12788 | Better functionality at a lower price |
1 | CEM DT-9979 | The most versatile tester |
2 | Mastech MS8229 | Tips for connecting probes. Built-in microphone, light meter, humidity sensor |
3 | Testo 760-1 | The most electrically safe multimeter in the segment |
4 | FLUKE 107 | The most affordable tester from a leading brand |
5 | UNI-T UT58C | High accuracy in AC and DC current measurement |
A digital multimeter (tester) is a necessary device not only for professional electricians or diagnosticians. For ordinary people, a modern measuring device allows them to independently find the cause of a breakdown in an electrical circuit. The multitester helps to cope with the repair of household appliances, cars. With it, you can explore the electrical circuit in several ways.
Market leaders
In the domestic market, most models of multimeters have good stuffing. But the build quality in cheap products leaves much to be desired. The list of the most popular manufacturers includes:
- Resanta is the largest Latvian manufacturer of electrical equipment. Has been operating since 1993. It produces multimeters, voltage stabilizers, welding machines, thermal equipment, uninterruptible power supplies and much more.
- Fluke is one of the world's leading designers and manufacturers of test and measurement instruments. Founded in the USA in 1948. On the Russian market, it sells multimeters, thermometers, current measuring equipment and other technological devices.
- Mastech is a Hong Kong company founded in 1987. Known for the constant introduction of innovations in production. Produces measuring instruments of various types, power supplies
- UNI-T is one of the largest Asian manufacturers and developers of measuring instruments and tools. Also based in Hong Kong, founded in 1988. Known for experience in technology cooperation with Fluke.
Recommendations for choosing a multimeter
There are several key characteristics of a multimeter, regardless of its price or functional category. You should pay attention to them first of all:
Imaging Accuracy measurements. Even in the case of using the device for domestic needs, it is better to make your choice among modern digital (with built-in display) testers. Alternative switches are cheaper, but inferior in terms of accuracy of visualization of measurement results, and therefore are becoming less and less popular.
Availability key functions. Namely, the functions of an ohmmeter (resistance measurement), voltmeter (voltage measurement) and ammeter (current measurement). With professional use of the tester, they can be supplemented, for example, by the functionality of a frequency meter, an inductance meter, and a capacitance meter.
Error. For domestic needs, it is permissible to use a multimeter with an error within 3%. For professional - no more than 0.5%, in rare cases, an increase in the upper limit to 1% is allowed.
All these key requirements are fully met by products supplied by the brands mentioned above. As well as, of course, many of their competitors. Some of them produce professional multimeters at quite a budget price. Our review includes the best testers that received high marks in the reviews of domestic consumers.
Best Budget Multimeters
The simplest and most inexpensive digital multimeter can be more useful than mechanical pointer devices. A clear result is displayed in the form of distinct numbers. In budget models, many functions are missing, but in some cases it is enough to determine the main current parameters.
4 Bort BMM-800
Country: China
Average price: 1000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.3
Affordable, the easiest to learn and convenient digital tester with electronic input protection is designed to measure DC current, DC and AC voltage, resistance. Suitable for continuity test, diode test, h21 transistor gain measurement. The choice of measuring ranges is made manually. Of the useful functionality, there is a Hold mode that saves measurements to internal memory, as well as an audible alarm that will notify you of a positive result when testing the continuity of the circuit.
The conclusions on the pros and cons of the device are as follows: people do not like the quality of the probes (backlash in the sockets, unreliable contacts, "cheap" assembly). Also note the slowness of dialing. The most simplified design for beginners is more likely to be a plus. A good model for home and field conditions, but the wires do not withstand sub-zero temperatures. The stand provides comfortable interaction with the multimeter.
3 RESANTA DT830B
Country: China
Average price: 295 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.5
Inexpensive multimeter RESANTA DT830B is suitable for the layman for home or car. With it, it is easy to measure the magnitude of voltage and current strength, resistance, check the performance of diodes or transistors. A 20-position switch allows you to select the appropriate measurement limit. The device has overload protection. The tester works confidently both in a heated room and outdoors. The device is powered by a 9-volt Krona battery.
In the reviews, consumers note the low price, good measurement accuracy, durability and sufficient functionality.Among the shortcomings, users indicate the lack of an auto-shutdown function when the battery is low, the absence of a buzzer, and thin wires in the probes.
2 PROconnect DT-182
Country: China
Average price: 490 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
The most compact device in our review was the Chinese multimeter PROconnect "DT-182". Its dimensions are 100x50x20 mm. This electrical measuring device has a rich set of functions and parameters. Using the tester, it is possible to determine the direct and alternating voltage with an error of 0.5-1.2%, current strength (1.8%), resistance (1%). It is easy to test such electrical elements as diodes, transistors, batteries. The model is made of high quality materials, testing was carried out under the supervision of REXANT INTERNATIONAL.
In customer reviews, there are many positive statements regarding the affordable price and compactness. Like consumers and functionality. The owners of the multimeter are dissatisfied with thin wires and the lack of an auto-off function.
1 Mastech M830B
Country: China (Hong Kong)
Average price: 900 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
In the budget segment, you can find multimeters with a fairly low error. An example of an accurate inexpensive tester is the Mastech M830B model. Its baseline error is only 0.5%. The device is able to accurately measure such physical parameters as current, AC and DC voltage, resistance. Using a multimeter, you can ring semiconductor diodes, determine the gain of transistors. The battery "Krona" with a voltage of 9 V was used as a current source. The kit includes probes, as well as an instruction manual. The measurement range is selected manually.
Domestic consumers in the reviews speak flatteringly about the high accuracy of readings, convenient operation, and maximum functionality. Soft probes and a clear display leave a pleasant impression. The disadvantages include the lack of backlight and auto-off function.
The best multimeters for home
Often, owners of apartments, houses and cottages have to deal with electrical problems. Even checking the serviceability of an extinguished light bulb without a tester can be difficult. And when you have to change sockets or switches, the multimeter becomes a real lifesaver. Using the device, you can periodically monitor the parameters of the household network, especially when home appliances are sensitive to voltage drops. There are many devices on the market that can be attributed to the best in the "home" segment.
5 TDM ELECTRIC М-838
Country: China
Average price: 600 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.5
It can be classified as one of the most inexpensive devices on the market, and therefore will be ideal for a novice user. The housing is made of non-combustible plastic, structurally capable of measuring alternating current without contact with current-carrying elements. The multimeter is suitable for testing diodes, ringing circuits, measuring DC (up to 1000 V - one of the highest rates in the price segment), AC voltage, resistance (up to 2 MΩ), temperature (a rarity for a budget tester). Equipped with a digital display with large numbers. Power supply - battery type "Krona" (6LR61). There is a fuse that protects the device from overloads.
Users attribute the lack of backlight to the disadvantages of the device, the high resistance of the included probes.In general, there is an extremely attractive combination of price and functionality of the device.
4 Shenzhen Victor Hi-tech VC97
Country: China
Average price: 2700 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.5
The device is equipped with a large backlit display, powered by AAA batteries. Refers to the electrical safety class CAT II, designed for a maximum operating temperature of 40 degrees. Adapted to measure the capacitance of capacitors, current frequency. Supported voltage ranges: AC - from 0.4 V to 750 V, DC - from 0.4 V to 1000 V. Measures capacitance in 200 microfarads.
Users note the high accuracy of measurements, comfort in use, and reliability of the device. The disadvantages include rather large dimensions (despite the fact that this characteristic is not recognized by many as significant for a multimeter).
3 IEK Master MAS838L
Country: China
Average price: 1400 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.5
Combined electrical measuring tool that combines an ohmmeter, voltmeter and ammeter. According to the measurement method, the multimeter belongs to analog-to-digital converters of double integration, which are distinguished by manufacturability and economic benefits (the device is inexpensive compared to the sequential counting ADC). The measurement speed of this method is low (no more than 3 measurements / sec.), but network noise is qualitatively suppressed. And the double insulation of the class II enclosure consists of basic and additional protection. Independent additional insulation protects against indirect contact if the base layer is damaged.
The reviews say that the device is pleasant to hold in the hand thanks to the rubberized casing.Users are pleased with the presence of a thermocouple, the temperature measurement range is 0‒750⁰С. Extended equipment allows you to immediately get to work. The manufacturer promises a ten-year service life with a one-year official warranty.
2 CEM DT-912
Country: China
Average price: 1 650 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
The DT-912 CEM digital tester is exceptionally reliable. The device stands out for its ergonomics and compactness. It fits comfortably in the palm of your hand and holds well on it thanks to the rubberized housing. You can work with the multimeter in any conditions, there is protection against moisture and mechanical stress. Measurement results are clearly visible on the LCD screen, which is equipped with an additional backlight. Adjustment of measurement limits is selected manually or automatically. The last readings can be remembered by using the Hold button.
Users emphasize the advantages of this multimeter for home use, such as high reliability, accuracy, ease of operation. In the reviews, demanding users point to such a drawback as thin probe wires.
1 UNI-T UT33A
Country: China
Average price: 1900 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
For those users who do not know how to choose the measurement limit correctly, a UNI-T UT33A automatic multimeter has been created. When measuring resistance and voltage, the instrument automatically determines the appropriate range. The multimeter has a separate panel for checking the performance of transistors. The manufacturer has provided the ability to turn off the device in the absence of activity for 30 minutes. The tester is powered by two 1.5 V AAA batteries.
Consumers note ease of use, it can be used for home, for cars and motorcycles, for the repair of electrical and radio equipment. The reviews mention such a drawback of the device as the lack of backlight.
The best auto testers
Many car owners are happy to service and repair their iron horses. When troubleshooting electrical problems, a multimeter is indispensable. It will help detect a break in the network, determine the performance of such units as the battery, generator and starter. Consider the best tester models for the "automotive" segment.
4 MEGEON 12788
Country: Russia
Average price: 3000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.4
The device has the function of auto-switching the measurement ranges. Runs on two AAA batteries. Adapted to measure voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, duty cycle, temperature, transistor gain. Supports continuity test function, diode test. Equipped with a large backlit display. The Russian brand-manufacturer offers the device at a price lower than many foreign analogues of a higher class. The maximum AC power is 20A, DC is 20 million μA, both parameters are higher than typical for devices in the “automotive” segment. Measures a signal with a frequency of 30 MHz, which is provided by few analogues in the segment.
Users note a wide range of functions in combination with the price of a multimeter, they praise the accuracy of measurements. The disadvantages include fairly thick probes, not too long illumination.
3 CEM AT-9955
Country: China
Average price: 14 900 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.4
The tester measures resistance, frequency, capacitance, AC and DC voltage, AC and DC current. Additional measurement modes: RPM, closing angle, pyrometer, pulse width, duty cycle. The permissible basic error of the model is 2% of the measured value.
The device is designed to diagnose electronics and electrical systems in cars, motorcycles and other vehicles with an internal combustion engine. Useful specific functions specifically for cars are reading the pulsation of the ignition angle cycle and the angle for electronic gasoline injection into the engine, measuring the width of the pulsation in ms of the time the air-fuel mixture is injected into the injection engine. Overload indication and auto-shutdown function are implemented. The owners praise the device for the high-quality tuning of electric carburetors, injection motor control units, automatic transmissions with electric control.
2 Elitech MM 100
Country: Russia (produced in China)
Average price: 590 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.9
The Elitech MM 100 digital tester boasts the best price combined with good quality. It is perfect for car enthusiasts for troubleshooting car electrics. Using the device, you can measure voltage and current, resistance, check semiconductor diodes, ring an electrical circuit. The results are displayed on a small display, there is an audible buzzer. The bright red color of the body makes the device stand out from the background of another instrument. The multimeter requires a 9-volt "Krona" battery to operate, the model is equipped with overload protection.
In the reviews, motorists write about such advantages of the tester as an affordable price, ease of use, and reliability.It can be used as a primitive electrical diagnostician for cars. It is only necessary to strengthen the wires of the probes.
1 Fluke 28-II
Country: USA
Average price: 47 000 rub.
Rating (2022): 5.0
The Fluke 28-II auto multimeter is capable of solving the most complex tasks related to the repair of electricians. This digital device is designed for professionals, so it significantly outperforms the competition in many ways. The tester is able to hold readings, illuminate the display, its body has heat resistance, tightness and shock resistance. Its operation is possible in the most severe conditions. The device is equipped with a thermometer, a low-frequency filter. With the help of the device, you can make accurate measurements on electrical appliances with a high level of noise. The selection of ranges is selected manually or automatically.
Users call the multimeter the best friend of an auto electrician because of the easy perception of information on the screen, comfortable soft probes, and smooth adjustment of operating modes. Pleases consumers and a lifetime warranty on the device. The main disadvantage of many buyers consider the high price.
The best professional multimeters
Professional multimeters have a number of features. They are equipped with a shockproof case, an informative screen, high-quality wires. Readings are taken quickly and accurately. Many devices from this category are included in the state register of measuring devices. The following is an overview of the best solutions in the professional segment.
5 UNI-T UT58C
Country: China (Hong Kong)
Average price: 3000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.5
The device has a CAT III electrical safety class (many competing solutions even in the professional segment are CAT II). Low error rate when measuring AC and DC current - 0.8% (typical for the segment is 1.5-2%). Adapted to measuring the capacitance of capacitors, temperature, frequency, testing diodes, continuity check. Equipped with a large backlit display. Records measurement results with built-in memory module. Wrapped in a protective case with non-slip surface. Can be placed on flat surfaces with a stand.
Users note the accuracy of measurements, the comfort of reading data on the display, the convenience of holding the device. The disadvantages include the inability of the tester to measure large capacitors, the lack of instructions in Russian. Users highly appreciate the functionality of the device, given its low price.
4 FLUKE 107
Country: USA
Average price: 8200 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
Multifunctional, accurate - with an average measurement error of 0.5%, a reliable device from a leading manufacturer from the USA. It performs the most popular functions - measuring direct and alternating voltage, current strength, capacitor capacitance, resistance, frequency, diode and transistor performance, "ringing". Selects the measurement range in automatic mode.
According to users, the delivery set of the device lacks a carrying case, as well as a crocodile clip - they have to be purchased separately. There is a low quality of the wires included in the kit, excessive rigidity of the probes.There are difficulties in reading the data on the display at an angle.
3 Testo 760-1
Country: China
Average price: 8000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
The tester measures AC current with an error of 1%, DC - 1.5%, capacitance - 1.5%, frequency - 0.1%. It has a very high electrical safety class (CAT IV). The measurement results are recorded in the device memory (by pressing the HOLD button). There is an auto-off when idle, which extends battery life. The tester is equipped with a large, very informative display.
Users praise the tester for having a convenient system for switching from measuring voltage to measuring resistance, they note the high quality of the probes and wires, even when used in cold weather. It is highly appreciated by employees of power industry enterprises in terms of functionality and, accordingly, it can be fully considered a professional device available at an affordable price.
2 Mastech MS8229
Country: China
Average price: 5 000 rub.
Rating (2022): 4.8
A versatile assistant for hobbyists who are fond of repairing and maintaining electronics. In addition to the standard set of measuring parameters of the multimeter, this model includes the ability to determine temperature, humidity, ambient light and sound field level, pulse duty cycle. In order for the owner to master the new tool faster and more comfortably, the manufacturer provided the tester with light and sound warnings. When switching modes, the red backlight tells you the correct place to connect the probes.
The digital machine is perfect for the home or small service workshop.It cannot be said that this device is inexpensive when compared with analogues. But commentators note the accuracy of installation, the washed-out flux, good plastic molding and the high quality of the printed circuit board. They complain a little that there is no case with a belt mount, but they put in the kit very good basic probes, which is rare in the amateur class.
1 CEM DT-9979
Country: China
Average price: 32 000 rub.
Rating (2022): 5.0
The most versatile multi-tester in our review was the CEM DT-9979 model. This professional digital device is reliably protected from shock, mechanical damage, moisture and dust. It has a number of important functions, among which it is necessary to note automatic power off, LCD screen backlight, large memory for 10,000 values, IP67 degree of protection, the ability to plot graphs, analyze results, measure RMS values, etc. Thanks to Bluetooth, you can quickly reset data to PC. The multimeter has a modern design and a convenient stand-emphasis.
Electrical specialists speak positively about the capabilities of the tester. It allows you to accurately take measurements, quickly process them. The case is made of high quality, so the device is not afraid of drops or moisture.