The Best Multimeters for Beginners and Pros (2022)

We present you with our guide to the best multimeter in five categories.
Michael Michael (175)
0

The multimeter is one of those tools that you didn't know you've always needed. It's a staple tool for electricians of course, but really every household should have one on hand. It can test old batteries, light switches, old light bulbs, extension cords, outlets, and more. They also happen to be useful for hobby electronics enthusiasts like us! (Though we still occasionally have to work without a multimeter!)

We present you with our guide to the best multimeter in five categories:

  1. Best Overall Multimeter
  2. Best Budget Multimeter
  3. Best Multimeter for Electronics
  4. Best Automotive Multimeter
  5. Best HVAC Multimeter
Posted in these interests:
Hobby electronics
h/electronics8 guides
h/diy97 guides

Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS

Fluke products have become the gold standard for multimeters due to their reliability and accuracy. They don't use cheap parts in the construction of these, and they rigorously test each one.

If you're looking for the multimeter that you can depend on for many years to come, then it's worth it to invest in Fluke's quality.

What to love about it:

  • Most compact and easy-to-use in Fluke's lineup
  • Perfect for general purpose electrical and electronic test requirements
  • 3-year warranty
  • Independently tested for safe use in CAT III 600V environments
  • One of the most accurate, portable multimeters on the market
  • Easy to read and intuitive for the average user

KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000

A multimeter is a must-have tool for electronic hobbyists and DIY-ers. The good news is that you don't have to spend a bundle for a simple multimeter that provides all the readings you need.

This multimeter from KAIWEETS gets the nod for its price point, features, and lifetime technical support.

What to love about it:

  • Non-contact voltage detection
  • Includes more functions than a standard multimeter
  • Measures capacitance, frequency, duty-cycle, temperature, and test diodes
  • 36-month after-sale service and lifetime technical support

AstroAI Digital Multimeter

You don't need a top-of-the-line multimeter for general household tasks like testing old batteries, light switches, light bulbs, extension cords, etc. Just a basic multimeter will do just fine for basic tasks. But you also don't want a multimeter that's unsafe when you're dealing with electricity and voltage.

We've found a great, safe multimeter that comes in at around $10: the AstroAI Digital Multimeter!

What to love about it:

  • Costs around $10
  • Intelligent anti-burn and dual fuse
  • Data hold function for taking measurements
  • Built-in kickstand for hands-free use
  • 1-year warranty

Innova 3320

When your car or truck is having electrical trouble, it's likely a defective wire causing a short circuit. Whether it's a blown fuse, headlight issue, or problem with your alternator, a good multimeter can help you diagnose the issue.

And while most decent multimeters will help, we are recommending one specifically designed with the automotive enthusiast in mind: the Innova 3320.

What to love about it:

  • Designed to safely and accurately troubleshoot a variety of automotive issues
  • 10 MegOhm Input Impedance
  • Auto Shut Off Feature
  • Uses include automotive circuits, breakers, wiring, vehicle battery & charging systems, electrical components, and more
  • Color-coded LED's for battery quick check
  • Protective rubber guards (because you're going to drop it!)

Klein Tools MM600 HVAC Multimeter

Most won't need a multimeter specifically designed for HVAC issues, but if you do, then we've got you covered. HVAC technicians need a multimeter with higher voltage and amp ratings as well as increased durability for daily use.

It's hard to go wrong with a Klein Tools product, given the quality we've come to expect from them, which pushes this Klein HVAC Multimeter to the top of the HVAC list.

What to love about it:

  • Measures up to 1000V AC/DC voltage, 10A AC/DC current, and 40M resistance
  • Built to last for those who use this daily
  • A CAT III 1000V safety rating
  • Can also measure temperature, capacitance, frequency, duty-cycle, test diodes, and continuity.
We've put together a guide to help you find the best soldering iron for your next project.
Michael Michael (175)
0

Every electronics DIY-er needs a good soldering iron. The Howchoo team uses soldering irons all the time for projects like Gamepad Zero or our hacked Raspberry Pi keyboard.