The Best Multimeters for Beginners and Pros (2022)

Mar 23, 2022

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:

Best Overall Multimeter
Best Budget Multimeter
Best Multimeter for Electronics
Best Automotive Multimeter
Best HVAC Multimeter

h/electronics • 8 guides

h/diy • 97 guides

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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

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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

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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

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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!)

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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.

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Michael (175)

Mar 23, 2022

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.