12 best multimeters

Measuring devices are used to quickly check the voltage in the power supply network, repair electrical equipment, and solve other practical problems. To choose a good multimeter, you should consider the specifics of the operating mode. The simplest inexpensive model is purchased for rare use. A modification with extended functional equipment is suitable for a radio amateur. Professionals need a certain degree of precision and increased reliability. The rating of the best multimeter models will help you choose the best option while studying the current market offers. The presented models received high marks from ordinary users and specialists.

Which company multimeter to choose

Modern production methods minimize the importance of the location of the company's production units. However, you should pay attention to the trademark:

• RESANTA - a well-known manufacturer with a well-developed network of sales and service representatives throughout the Russian Federation. In the current assortment, in addition to reliable multimeters, it offers laser levels, indicator screwdrivers, and other measuring and control equipment.
• ZUBR - its own design bureau allows the Zubr company (Russia) to create products with unique characteristics. Some developments are protected by patent law.
• UNI-T Is a trademark of the Hong Kong company Uni-Trend Group Limited, which occupies a leading position in the production of measuring instruments. In the Chinese market, the share in the corresponding segment exceeds 30%.
• IEK Is a Russian brand with more than 20 years of history. A good reputation is confirmed by the high quality of products at a relatively low price level.
• Mastech (Hong Kong) controls the parameters of all measuring instruments prior to delivery to the retail network. The multimeters are certified according to the RF regulations. In addition to simple models, the range includes products with advanced functionality.

The best multimeters (household)

Having mastered basic skills, you can exclude the appeal to experienced specialists and minimize the cost of repairs. An inexpensive but good multimeter will show the actual voltage in the network. Using this device, you can check the integrity of the wiring, clarify the power consumption of the connected devices. Even inexpensive multimeter models show a fairly high measurement accuracy. You can quickly study working technologies according to the instructions from the accompanying documentation. Additional information on the correct execution of work steps is provided free of charge on the help resources on the Internet.

1. RESANTA DT 838

This popular multimeter offers good performance at an affordable cost. In addition to the basic set of measurements of electrical parameters, there is a built-in buzzer. Such an addition is useful for a quick check of the integrity of current-carrying circuits. With the connected thermocouple, the temperature reading can be determined. According to the owners, the multimeter is well adapted to careless use. Built-in fuses prevent damage to the product if the range is incorrect.

Pros:

• affordable price;
• accuracy of work;
• light weight;
• the ability to measure temperature;
• socket for testing the functionality of semiconductor devices.

Minuses:

• non-separable design of the probes, which makes it difficult to restore the damaged wire.

2. UNI-T UT33D

In the course of studying the serial number of devices, it is recommended to clarify the name. Model "D" has advanced features. In addition to clarifying the efficiency of diodes and transistors, temperature is measured with its help. The functionality of individual electronic circuits can be checked using the built-in square wave generator. Press the "HOLD" button to fix the readings on the multimeter display if necessary.

Pros:

• a good device for home use;
• ergonomic body shape;
• compactness;
• backlight for work in darkened conditions;
• generator;
• thermocouple included as standard.

Minuses:

• the platform for testing transistors is available only in modification "A".

3. CEM DT-912

This multimeter model is built in a narrow body with a thickness that is easy to grip with one hand. Special rubber pads provide shock absorption. A retractable stand can be used to fix the position at an angle on a horizontal surface. Large numbers are clearly visible even from a great distance. If necessary, the visibility of the data display is improved by the built-in backlight.

Pros:

• handy multimeter with good protection against adverse external influences;
• speed of work;
• clear display;
• solid assembly;
• comfortable stand;
• small error (resistance - 0.8%, voltage - 1.2%).

Minuses:

• The standard dipstick can be damaged by excessive force.

4. BISON TX-810-T (59810)

When looking for a practical multimeter on a budget, you should take a close look at this model. The inexpensive ZUBR TX-810-T multimeter is designed with double insulation of the case. Six rubber pads resist impact damage. At the same time, it provides a secure fit in the hand during the measurement procedure. The large, backlit display shows data in a user-friendly format.

Pros:

• a cheap device with good consumer characteristics;
• comfortable durable stand;
• the presence of backlight;
• the ability to measure temperature;
• support for automatic reboot;
• ergonomic design;
• high-quality indication of readings.

Minuses:

• there is no function for checking transistors.

The best multimeters with advanced functionality

For operational testing of capacitors, transistors and other components of electrical circuits, special equipment is required. This section of the overview provides multimeters with advanced functionality. Some increase in cost is justified by the expansion of opportunities, it is worth considering that certain models are quite suitable for professional activities.

1. ELITECH MM 300

This multimeter is equipped with a special display rotation mechanism. This engineering solution simplifies the selection of the optimal position of the indicating device, taking into account the angle of view. The rubberized pad provides a more secure fit for the meter than the retractable stand. In addition to semiconductor devices and resistances, this device can be used to test capacitors and batteries.

Pros:

• the best indicators in a combination of price and quality;
• movable display;
• reliable overload protection;
• protection of the case from mechanical damage;
• wide range of operating temperatures (from -40 ° С to + 50 ° С)
• advanced functionality for testing electrical components.

Minuses:

• according to user reviews, there are no significant shortcomings.

2. UNI-T UT33A

In this modification of the popular series of multimeters, the manufacturer has installed a special platform for testing transistors. After selecting the type of measurement, manual range selection is not required, because this process is fully automated.An additional plus is the convenient shape of the case. For objectivity, disadvantages should be noted:

1. no saving of results;
2. there is no backlight.

In the UT33 series of multimeters, the basic equipment of different models is significantly different (indicated by a Latin letter in the name). This feature should be taken into account when choosing.

Pros:

• a site for testing semiconductor components;
• automated setting of the measurement range;
• availability of battery charge indication;
• ergonomic body.

Minuses:

• lack of screen backlight and "HOLD" key.

3. IEK Professional MY62

This compact device is protected from damage by a rubber damping boot. The economical liquid crystal display consumes minimal power. Additional power saving is provided by automatic power off in standby mode. With the use of a specialized adapter, the basic capabilities of the multimeter are significantly expanded. The device is often used to test transistors and connect a thermocouple.

Pros:

• high-quality assembly;
• protective "bumper";
• reliable fixation in the sockets of the probes;
• quality of probes;
• gorgeous functionality at a reasonable cost;
• automated shutdown of an autonomous power source.

Minuses:

• the capacitance of the capacitors is measured only up to 20 μF.

4. Mastech MY-64

This multimeter is able to reproduce 32 test technologies by selecting the appropriate ranges. The main difference is the ability to measure the frequency of a sinusoidal signal with an error of no more than 2%. A separate button is installed to turn on the power. The disconnection is performed automatically after the registration of a 40-minute break. A critical decrease in charge is indicated by an icon on the screen. The electrical circuit includes overload protection. The display shows the polarity of the signal. The readings on the tester are clearly visible with a significant deviation of the angle of view.

For this and some other multimeters, experts recommend purchasing a lithium battery that is suitable for the parameters. In order for the probes to perform their functions flawlessly, carefully remove the oxide film from the working surfaces before use.

Pros:

• one of the best rated digital multimeters in terms of equipment and price;
• excellent measurement speed;
• reboot indication (0L);
• minimum errors;
• reliable shock protection;
• reliable protection against erroneous user actions.

Minuses:

• manual setting of the measuring range.

The best professional multimeters

TOP 4 of this section was compiled taking into account the estimates of experienced specialists. The best professional multimeter is determined not only by its feature set and accuracy. Maintaining the initial parameters during long-term intensive operation is essential.

1. Testo 760-1

Equipping a large display increases the cost of the multimeter. However, in this case, it becomes possible to simultaneously display several measured parameters (for example, voltage and signal frequency). After turning on the power, the setting is performed automatically. Manual selection is only available when monitoring two signals (AC / DC) simultaneously.

Pros:

• the best professional device;
• pulse counter, semiconductor device test, other additional functions;
• reliable overload protection;
• high sensitivity;
• simultaneous measurement of several parameters;
• automation of settings.

Minuses:

• high price.

2. UNI-T 13-0047

In addition to basic functions, this device is capable of measuring rms values ​​using the standard TRUE RMS algorithm. The large display, up to 6,000 bits, is evenly backlit. The body, tapered in the central part, is comfortable for a secure grip with one hand. Additional user manipulations are not needed, since the range setting is organized using an automated algorithm.A separate indicator notifies of a critical discharge of the multimeter's batteries.

Pros:

• one of the best rated digital multimeters with advanced functionality;
• comfortable body;
• high build quality;
• there is the possibility of connecting to a PC;
• convenient control;
• possibility of automatic selection of measurement limits;
• an excellent combination of price and features;
• clear indication of data (service notifications).

3. APPA 97

This versatile instrument is equipped with a thickened cover to prevent damage from strong mechanical impacts. Automation performs several important functions:

1. configures the measurement range without user intervention;
2. reports misuse of sockets;
3. shows the battery charge.

The inclusion of this multimeter in the list of the State Register confirms the compliance of the parameters with the current standards when performing official measurement procedures.

Pros:

• one of the best multimeters for accuracy;
• very high quality display;
• light weight;
• high-quality automation of work processes;
• durability and reliability.

Minuses:

• no signal generator.

4. Fluke 17B +

This multimeter correctly measures electrical resistance in the low impedance range. Capacitor parameters with its help are determined with an error of no more than 2% (electrolytic cells - up to 1000 μF). To activate the required range, you can use automatic or manual mode. The listed details confirm professional the intended purpose of the multimeter, but the final decision must be made after a detailed study of the accompanying documentation.

Pros:

• high-quality components;
• accuracy;
• high measurement speed;
• large display with a wide viewing angle;
• good functional equipment.

Minuses:

• tight latch of the stand.

Which multimeter is better to buy

Determining which is the best instrument requires a precise formulation of the initial requirements. For a rare household application, an entry-level tester is quite suitable. Affordability is accompanied by limited functionality, average quality of materials, low accuracy. However, to solve many typical tasks, it is enough to purchase a device with basic measurement parameters.

The above rating of the best professional-grade multimeters will help you choose a model for complex work operations. In this case, the initial investment is justified by its reliability and long service life. With increased requirements for accuracy, modifications with the True RMS mode are purchased.