How to choose a high-quality multimeter - overview of characteristics and expert advice. Choosing a high-quality multimeter for home and work Universal multimeter for home in the top10

A self-respecting home handyman must have a device for checking all kinds of electrical parameters. With its help, you can detect, check the presence of voltage in a socket or battery, find out the integrity of the lamp, heating element, and other electrical and radio components. The digital electronic tester measures parameters such as AC and DC voltage, electrical resistance, AC and DC current, temperature, frequency, inductance, capacitance, etc. In this article we will tell you how to choose a multimeter and which one is best for home, work and car.

Main selection criteria

Not every master needs all the functions listed above in everyday life; for some, a few are enough. For a builder-electrical installer, it is enough to choose a simple multimeter that will measure voltage, check resistance, and ring the circuit. Therefore, there is no point in purchasing an expensive tester.

For an electrical technician who maintains electrical equipment, it will be useful to select the “current clamp” function, which allows you to measure the load on operating equipment without interfering with the circuit. This in turn will make it possible to control and prevent accidents.

For instrumentation technicians, other functions related to radio components will be very useful: ohmmeter, voltmeter, ammeter, capacitance and inductance meter, frequency meter, etc.

Below we will provide the most reliable models for each profession, but now I would like to briefly highlight the main points that need to be taken into account when choosing a multimeter in 2017:

1. Pointer or digital. Of course, digital, because... it has many functions and high accuracy.
2. Functionality. We have already said this and will talk in detail below when we provide an overview of multimeters.
3. The presence of a backlight and a button for holding readings makes it much more convenient to take measurements.
4. The operating error can vary from 0.025 to 3%. The smaller the error, the more accurate the tester.
5. Design. You should choose a multimeter that is convenient for use, focusing on its size, design of controls and other important things.
6. Degree of protection from moisture, dust and shock loads. The higher the degree, the better the quality of the tester and the longer its service life.
7. Electrical safety class. An equally important selection criterion that you should definitely pay attention to. According to the standards, there are 4 classes: CAT 1 - measurements can be taken in low-voltage networks, CAT 11 - power supply networks, CAT 111 - distribution circuits inside buildings, CAT 1V - distribution circuits outside buildings. Protection can be provided by fuses (electromechanical) or more reliable - electronic. We recommend choosing a digital multimeter with electronic protection.
8. Firm. An equally important indicator that you need to pay attention to. Good manufacturers of digital testers in 2017 are Mastech and UNI-T.

A specialist talks about all this briefly in the video:

Expert opinion

In this article we will consider, in our opinion, common and popular models of multimeters that you can choose for home, work and car diagnostics.

Review of the best models

DT-830B

DT-830B is worth starting your acquaintance with if you have never had a measuring device. An inexpensive device with a set of necessary parameters that may be needed by beginners and experienced electricians, as well as home craftsmen.

Small-sized device, powered by a 9V crown battery. There is an LCD indicator, a function switch, two red and black probes, three 20A, V A Ω, COM sockets for selecting the type of parameter measurement. In terms of functions, the multimeter can measure:

• direct current with limits from 20 mA to 200 mA, as well as through a separate socket within 10A;
• alternating voltage up to 200V and up to 500V;
• constant voltage within 200 mV to 500V;
• resistance up to 2000 kOhm;
• diode check;
• determination of transistor parameters.

The Achilles heel of this device is the incorrect choice of measurement parameters. If you select the continuity function or resistance measurement and measure the network voltage, the tester will fail. This model is very popular for home use and is widely represented on our market. There are modifications of the 830 model, differing both in appearance and in the presence of certain functions. You can learn more about this in the video:

Comparison of DT-830

To summarize, I would like to note that the choice of this inexpensive multimeter is reasonable if it will be used in electrical work around the house or at a construction site.

C266 (DT-266)

Based on the previous model of the measuring unit, an equally wonderful tester C266 (DT-266) is assembled, which we also recommend that you choose.

Its special feature is a current clamp and a measurement fixation button. When testing occurs in such places of the equipment that the digital indicator disappears from view or is physically inaccessible, there is a button on the right side of the device, which is fixed during measurement and the result does not disappear from the multimeter screen while the button is pressed.

Otherwise, it is not much different from the previous review participant. It is often chosen for work by electricians. Structurally, it is more massive than the 830 model. There is an LCD indicator and switch, three sockets for connecting probes, current clamps, a switch, and also powered by a crown battery. Depending on the manufacturer, the multimeter may differ in some functional differences, placement of controls and measurement ranges.

This device will help measure:

• alternating voltage up to 750V;
• constant 1000V;
• DC current 20A;
• alternating current 1000A, measured with clamps;
• resistance 20 MOhm;
• test the continuity of the electrical circuit at 200 ohms;
• find out the temperature using a 750℃ remote thermocouple.

There are also models equipped with a transistor and diode tester, so if you need these functions for radio workshop work, you can choose a suitable multimeter.

M812

The next participant in our review is M812. Small and smart, this is about him. An electrician's Swiss knife, small in size and weighing 90 grams. This tester fits easily into your pocket and does not take up much space. This multimeter is deservedly popular among auto electricians for repairing and diagnosing automotive equipment, so if you need a tester specifically for this, we recommend choosing the M812.

Structurally, it is made in a classic case and has a three-digit indicator, a mode switch, three sockets for connecting probes, as well as a connector for testing diodes and transistors.

M812 will help you find out the following parameters:

• DC and AC voltage within 500V;
• DC current from 10 mA to 10A, via additional connector;
• circuit integrity with sound indication;
• resistance of the measured area up to 2 MOhm;
• will check electronic semiconductor components;
• availability of a signal generator for testing amplifiers and other radio equipment.

DT9208A

Next in our review is the DT9208A tester, an assistant for home handymen and electricians. If you want to choose a multimeter under 1000 rubles, in terms of price and quality it will be one of the best.

This measuring device looks serious. Large indicator with adjustable tilt. Reclining leg, thanks to which the device can be positioned as conveniently and informatively as possible relative to the user. The case is covered with an additional bright cover, which performs protective functions. Large function switch, two buttons: power and memory. This model is equipped with a shutdown timer. A useful function that saves crown capacity and function switch life.

In relation to the previously described testers, this device has an extended measurement range. The case has four connectors for connecting probes. The DC voltage measurement range is divided into - 200mV, 2V, 200V, 1000V. For AC 750V, 200V, 20V. The current measurement range is divided into - 20 µA, 20 mA, 200 mA, 20A for DC and 200 mA, 20A AC. In addition, the multimeter allows you to measure resistance and circuit integrity with an audio alert, and check the p-n junction of a diode or thyristor. The measurement range is divided into buzzer, 200 Ohm, 2k, 20k, 200k, 2M, 20M, 200M. There is a function for measuring logical levels to test digital devices. It is also possible to measure frequency with a range of 2 kHz and 200 kHz.

To test all kinds of converters and generators, the input resistance in frequency meter mode is 10 MOhm, that is, the effect on the measured circuits is minimal. Another advantage will be the measurement of capacitors from 2000 p, 20 n, 200 n, 2 µF and 20 µF. In addition, using the DT9208A you can find out the temperature and also check the transistors. DT9208A is better to choose for a radio amateur, because... it has everything you need to repair electronics.

The last one in our review will be the MC 8229 combine for all possible measurements.

This unit is equipped with a three-line LCD indicator with backlight. In addition to the classic types of measurements, it will help you find out the following parameters:

• light level;
• sound level;
• humidity;
• temperature.

Specifications:

1. The multimeter is equipped with a light and sound warning about incorrect connection of the test leads.
2. Manual or automatic range selection is possible.
3. Overload protection is provided at all measuring ranges.
4. Maximum permissible voltage between input jacks and ground: AC (rms value) or DC 1000V.
5. Maximum operating altitude: 2000 m (7000 ft).
6. Display: liquid crystal, allows display of three readings simultaneously. Maximum displayed value: 3999.
7. Polarity indication: automatic, “–” indicates negative polarity.
8. Overload indication: “0L” or “-0L”.
9. Sampling time: about 0.4 seconds.
10. Dimension display: Unit and measurement mode are displayed.
11. Multimeter auto shutdown time: 30 minutes.
12. Characteristics of self-resetting fuse (F1): 500mA/250V.
13. Fuse (F2): 10A/250V (fast acting).
14. Power source: three 1.5V batteries, AAA.
15. Low battery indication: » » icon on the display.
16. Temperature coefficient:< 0,1 × погрешность/°C.
17. Operating temperature: 0°C to 40°C (32°F to 104°F).
18. Storage temperature: -10°C to 50°C (10°F to 122°F).
19. Overall dimensions: 195 x 92 x 55 mm.
20. Weight: about 400g (including battery).

We recommend choosing this device for professional service technicians who repair electronic devices (household appliances, laptops, etc.), as well as inspectors to measure indicators such as workplace illumination, noise level in the workshop, etc.

Testers review

That's all I wanted to tell you about how to choose a multimeter and which one is best for home, work and car diagnostics. We hope our selection tips were useful to you. Remember that you are dealing with an electrical measuring device and when measuring network and other parameters, keep in mind that the elements of the tester may also be under live voltage, and therefore can be deadly. Keep your device clean and do not use probes with damaged insulation. Follow safety precautions.

Relevance: May 2019

Electricity is all around us. Electrical wiring in the house, household appliances, a car with its own electrical power system. “Ordered movement of electrons in a conductor” accompanies us at every step. And all this tends to break. The reason for failure cannot always be determined visually, but “by touch” is more expensive.

To detect faults or measure voltage, resistance, capacitance and everything that can be measured, man invented a device - a multimeter. With its help, you can accurately, and most importantly safely, measure the necessary parameters and identify a malfunction. Basic functions are available to any average man. This is a universal and indispensable assistant for the “home handyman”.

We have compiled a list of the best multimeters based on expert assessments from specialists and reviews from real customers. Our recommendations will help you make a choice that suits your needs and desires. There are many competitors in the global technology market, but we have selected the best manufacturers and recommend paying special attention to them:

1. Resanta
2. Testo
3. Fluke

*Prices are correct at the time of publication and are subject to change without notice.

Multimeters: Digital

For home / Transistor check/ Digital

Main advantages

• High-quality and affordable digital device for home use in a durable plastic housing
• Using the device, you can determine the voltage of direct and alternating current, as well as check the performance of diodes, which expands the capabilities of the device
• To improve ease of use, the device has an informative LCD display that displays operating modes and measurement readings
• The measuring probes included in the kit belong to the third security group. They can withstand direct voltage up to 1000 V and alternating voltage up to 750 V, which increases safety of use.
• Compact dimensions and low weight of 100 g make storage and transportation easy. The device fits easily in a shirt pocket

Show all products in the category "Digital"

Multimeters: For home

For home / For professionals / Transistor check

Main advantages

• Multimeter for household and laboratory use at ambient temperatures from 0 to +40 degrees, the most accurate measurements in the range from +18 to +28 degrees Celsius
• Effective protection against overloads and short circuits is provided, which increases the reliability of the device and operational safety
• Using a multimeter, you can carry out standard measurements (current, resistance, capacitance, etc.), as well as continuity testing with display of readings on the screen and a buzzer
• Using a thermocouple, you can measure temperature, which expands the capabilities of the multimeter
• The device is powered by a common 9V crown cell included in the package.

For home / Circuit continuity / Digital

Main advantages

• A compact electrical device that allows you to carry out various measurements, including voltage or current, as well as check the functionality of the circuit
• Thanks to the OpenJaw™ system, the device is capable of measuring current up to 100 A without disturbing the integrity of the wiring
• When a rupture is detected, the device turns on an audible alarm, which facilitates diagnosis and repair.
• The shock-resistant case protects the internal elements of the device even when dropped from a 3-meter height. This increases reliability and extends service life
• To activate the device, you only need to set the mode, and the multimeter will do the rest automatically. When inactive, the device turns off automatically and saves battery power

Show all products in the category "Home"

Multimeters: Continuity test

For professionals / Transistor check/ Continuity test / Digital

Main advantages

• Powerful and compact multimeter for home use in a durable plastic case
• The device is intended for measuring resistance, capacitance of capacitors, checking diodes for breakdown, DC/AC voltage
• Low base error within 0.5% and measurement speed up to 3 seconds ensure high efficiency
• To increase the ease of use of the device, operating modes and measurement readings are displayed on a fairly large LCD display
• Comfortable operation and observation of the device readings is ensured by a folding stand on the back of the device, and a high-quality polymer case serves for protection, storage and ease of transportation.

For professionals / Transistor check/ Continuity test / Digital

Main advantages

• Compact digital multi-function meter for amateur and professional use
• The kit includes a thermal sensor for measuring temperatures, which, along with other functions (measurement of voltage and current, capacitance, resistance, frequency, etc.) expands the capabilities of the device
• Manual switching of operating modes and limits in 32 positions, with automatic determination of the measuring range, increases ease of use
• The device is protected from overloads, but additionally it has automatic indication of limit operating modes
• Convenient viewing of the informative LCD screen is provided by a built-in stand on the rear of the case

Show all products in the category "Chain continuity"

Multimeters: Transistor Test

For home / Transistor check/ Digital

Main advantages

• Digital multimeter with wide functionality, which is distinguished by a miniature body
• The device is protected from overloads and overvoltage. Overload indicator installed to improve reliability and extend service life
• Thanks to a low base error of 1% and a sensitivity of 100 μV, the device allows you to make measurements with high accuracy
• DC polarity or voltage value is detected automatically, which improves ease of use
• The readings are easy to read on the LCD display, despite the fact that the device has the smallest dimensions compared to models of the same class

Show all products in the category "Transistor testing"

Multimeters: Display backlight

For home / For professionals / Display backlight/ Continuity test / Digital

Main advantages

• Multifunctional digital measuring instrument with a large, informative monochrome LCD display
• There is no traditional mode dial. After connecting the probes, the parameters of the required measurements are automatically determined and the corresponding button on the instrument panel is highlighted
• Manual adjustment required when measuring mixed AC/DC signal
• The largest backlit display of its kind clearly shows the two measured parameters (e.g. frequency and voltage) and the current measurement in the form of an icon
• Thanks to the HOLD function, the device is able to hold the obtained measurement value on the screen, which increases ease of use

For home / For professionals / Display backlight/ Continuity test / Digital

One of the most affordable multimeters. At the same time, the device is quite suitable for domestic needs, when maximum measurement accuracy is not needed. However, the reading error of this multimeter cannot be called high; in fact, it does not exceed 0.5%. The operation of the device is ensured by the usual crown battery, the energy of which is enough for many thousands of measurements.

This multimeter is capable of operating with direct current at voltages from 0.2 to 600 V. If alternating current is used, the voltage must be at least 200 V. As for the strength of direct current, measurements are allowed in the range from 0.0002 to 10 A In short, the device turned out to be quite universal. At the same time, it is as easy to use as possible. The selection of measurement ranges here is carried out by rotating a special knob, as in many other multimeters. The device is also capable of alerting with sound signals - many cheap brothers, by the way, do not have this function. It remains to add that the Mastech M830B multimeter weighs exactly 170 g, and it should fit even in the smallest bag.

Advantages

Low cost;

Error - no more than 0.5%;

It is possible to check diodes;

Optimal set of measurement types;

Flaws

The display is not backlit;

No memory;

A maximum of two measurements per second is achievable;

Build quality leaves much to be desired;

One of the cheapest multimeters in our rating. For this device in Russian stores they ask for no more than 250 rubles. As is the case with other inexpensive multimeters, the choice of measurement type is carried out manually - for this you turn the usual handle. It also uses a conventional digital display that is not backlit. The low cost is explained by the increased measurement error of up to 1%. Fortunately, this is a completely acceptable indicator if the device is not used for professional purposes.

The multimeter can measure DC and AC voltage, as well as DC current and resistance. Unfortunately, it is not capable of checking the integrity of an electrical circuit or solving any other complex problems. But they can check diodes.

The characteristics of the Resant DT 830B are typical for a cheap multimeter. Here it is possible to measure alternating voltage from 200 to 750 V. DC voltage can vary from 0.2 to 1000 V. That is, you can measure either a small battery or a serious transformer. As for the direct current, it should vary from 0.0002 to 10 A.

The product complies with the CAT II 1000 V safety standard. The device weighs only 137 g, and it is not recommended to drop it - the plastic seems too fragile. However, it is difficult to find fault with the build quality - the product does not crunch in your hands. Only probes and paper documentation are supplied with the multimeter.

Advantages

High-quality assembly;

Up to three measurements per second;

Minimum dimensions and weight;

Very low cost;

Clear instructions;

Flaws

The error cannot be called very low;

No display backlight;

There is no dial-in mode;

No memory;

It is a rare case that the plastic case of a multimeter is painted red. The mode switch is painted similarly. Only the area around it is left black here so that the white font is easy to read. Like the devices previously discussed in this rating, the Elitech MM 100 is designed to measure resistance, direct current, as well as direct and alternating voltage. It can also be used to test electrical networks. Another application method is to test semiconductor diodes. The measurement results are displayed here on a small digital display. Unfortunately, it is not backlit.

The product has the usual characteristics for a budget multimeter. That is, it definitely cannot measure electricity with a voltage of more than 750 V. The device operates using a crown. Unlike the products discussed above, the Russian Elitech MM 100 multimeter comes with a battery; you do not need to buy it separately.

Advantages

Unusual appearance;

The cost does not exceed 260 rubles;

Relatively low error;

Diode testing is possible;

Flaws

The display is not backlit;

Only two measurements per second;

No memory;

The best multimeters for home

This instrument is also called a hot-wire anemometer. The fact is that this is a very advanced multimeter, the capabilities of which are greatly expanded. The product even looks much better than its budget counterparts. But such a device also costs noticeably more - in Russian stores they charge up to 5 thousand rubles for it.

The readings here are displayed on a very large display. The measurement results can be recorded for some time. It is also possible to save reference readings, with which the results of new measurements are then compared. Finally, it should be noted that there is automatic range selection here. Of course, at any time you can set the measurement range manually if the option selected automatically is not satisfactory.

In addition to the usual multimeter functions, there is a lux meter, sound level meter, thermometer and hygrometer. This means that with the help of CEM DT-61 you can measure the level of illumination (a silicon photodiode, supplemented with filters, is responsible for this), noise level (this is done by a condenser microphone), temperature environment and even its humidity.

Perhaps this is one of the best devices for home use. It can also be used in small workshops or companies involved in the repair of electronic equipment. The capabilities of the CEM DT-61 multimeter will not be enough only for workers of enterprises associated with very high electricity. It's a pity that this device cannot be called cheap. Nevertheless, it fully deserves a place in our ranking.

Advantages

Diode testing is possible;

High assembly reliability;

Built-in lux meter, sound level meter, hygrometer and thermometer;

There is an automatic mode for selecting measurement ranges;

Saving reference results is available;

Large display containing a lot of different information;

The “Dialing” mode has not been forgotten;

Flaws

The measurement error of additional sensors is quite high;

Some people may find the multimeter too expensive.

Perhaps this particular device has the most optimal price tag. In Russian retail they ask for 2500 rubles. This is not yet an amount that you don’t want to part with at all. At the same time, you understand that it is unlikely that the manufacturer of a rather expensive multimeter saved much, and therefore you can expect rich capabilities and low measurement errors from the device.

Unlike budget analogues, this model has a fairly large display. The range switch, on the contrary, is slightly reduced in size. However, it is shaped in such a way that turning it is not difficult. At the same time, accidental turns are practically excluded.

Using this multimeter, you can measure AC and DC voltage, resistance (here, however, the error can reach 5%), DC and AC current, inductance and even capacitance. Also, the manufacturer did not forget about the diode test and continuity testing. In a word, such a device should be quite suitable for people involved in regular repairs of household electronics. Perhaps what multimeter buyers will be most pleased with is the presence of a HOLD button. Pressing it allows you to hold the readings. Perhaps the only things missing here are temperature and frequency measurements. However, only much more expensive devices have such functions. The device is powered by a regular crown. A nice bonus is the protective bumper that comes included - with it you don’t have to be afraid of dropping the multimeter somewhere on the asphalt.

Advantages

It is possible to measure the capacitance of capacitors;

There is a memory mode;

The cost cannot be called prohibitive;

The kit includes a protective bumper;

Up to three measurements per second occur;

The large display is backlit;

High-quality assembly;

Diode test implemented;

Electrical circuit testing is available;

Flaws

• Only manual selection of measurement ranges.

It is far from the cheapest multimeter in our rating. However, I wouldn’t even dare call it expensive. For this model in Russia they ask for no more than 1000 rubles. In this regard, you should not expect rich capabilities from the device. Basically, the manufacturer relied on a good build and a fairly large display. The latter even has a backlight, so you can view the measurement results even in complete darkness. Returning to the case, it is rubberized, so the multimeter is not afraid of even falls from a decent height. It should be noted that there is a HOLD button here. As you understand, pressing it activates the storage of current readings.

Of course, this device can by no means be called ideal. Professionals will not like the error, which in some modes can reach 2%. Nevertheless, at home such a multimeter may well come in handy. With its help, you can measure not only various parameters of electricity, but also the integrity of the circuit. The device also allows you to check diodes and even test batteries. The measurement range here can be selected either manually or automatically. It should also be noted that the device belongs to the CAT III 600 V safety standard. The multimeter operates from the “crown”, which is supplied in the kit.

Advantages

Measurements are possible in conditions of high humidity (up to 80%);

Affordable price;

There is a “Dial-in” mode;

Battery and diode testing is possible;

A rubberized body is used;

There is a memory mode;

A fairly large display, complemented by backlighting;

Automatic selection of measurement ranges is available;

Flaws

• High measurement error.

The best professional multimeters

It is a rare case when a multimeter is equipped with a waterproof case. The device complies with the IP67 standard, which allows measurements even in the rain. The device will not be damaged if dropped onto a hard surface. In a word, such a device can serve forever. But that’s not even why he made it into our rating.

In fact, this multimeter is also a recorder. If cheaper analogues remember only one specific parameter, then absolutely all changes that occurred over 200 hours are recorded (up to a maximum of 10 thousand values ​​can be saved). At the same time, timestamps are saved. In the future, this greatly facilitates the transition to a specific time. For example, this way you can quickly find out how much the battery capacity has decreased after an hour and a half of use, and how much its voltage has dropped.

But this is not the main feature of the multimeter! The device is also called professional because of the ability to communicate with other devices. That is, all measurement results can be displayed on a computer, after which all that remains is to begin analyzing them. There is also a Bluetooth module, with its help data is transferred to a smartphone, where you must first install the appropriate application.

As for the capabilities of the device, they are very wide. The maximum device is capable of measuring voltage up to 1000 V. At the same time, the measurement error does not exceed 0.3%, which can be considered an excellent indicator. Moreover, when measuring DC voltage, the error does not exceed 0.025%. Of course, when measuring other parameters, the error may be higher, but there are no miracles in the world - all modern multimeters available to the average consumer are guilty of this. The device can measure current, voltage, resistance, frequency, capacitance, temperature (up to 1000 degrees) and some other parameters. The values ​​are displayed both in the form of numbers and on a graphic scale.

In short, we can talk about the DT-9979 multimeter for a very long time. Now this is one of the most advanced devices, capable of almost any measurements related to electricity. The only significant drawback of the device is the price, reaching 22 thousand rubles. But with professional use, the multimeter will definitely pay for itself!

Advantages

Built-in data logger for 200 hours;

Minimum measurement error;

There is a non-contact voltage detector;

Large number of measurement ranges;

Data transfer to PC and smartphone is available;

The large display is backlit;

It is possible to build graphs;

There is input protection up to 1000 V on all ranges;

The case is shockproof and waterproof;

The memory can hold up to 10,000 values;

Flaws

• Very high cost.

Another professional multimeter in our rating. Its possibilities cannot be called limitless, but, nevertheless, they are very wide. For 15 thousand rubles. the buyer receives a device that can measure voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, frequency and even temperature. At the same time, the device is a recorder, allowing you to record all changes in the electrical circuit. This model stores a maximum of 6000 values. If this is not enough, then there is a multimeter APPA 109N, the memory of which can already contain 40 thousand values.

All readings here are displayed on a fairly large screen. The numbers on it are clearly visible even under bright sunlight. In the dark, the backlight, complemented by an auto-shut-off function, will come to the rescue. You can also find an RS-232 connector on the device body - this interface is needed to transfer data to a computer. Unfortunately, the body of the device is not shockproof or, especially, waterproof. However, the multimeter comes with a protective case, in which the device is not afraid of even the most serious falls. Also in the box with the device you can find removable alligator clips. The special adapter needed for temperature measurements is not forgotten here either. In short, the kit contains everything you need, you definitely won’t have to buy anything else.

To summarize, this is a very good multimeter with input protection up to 1000 V. The only thing missing here is the construction of graphs - there is only room on the display for a traditional scale.

Advantages

The display is complemented by backlighting;

Low measurement error;

Synchronization with a computer is possible;

There are high voltage fuses;

There is memory for a large number of values;

The device even measures capacitance, frequency and temperature;

The package contains absolutely everything you need;

Flaws

Not protected from water;

No graphs are being built.

Relatively inexpensive professional multimeter. They are asking approximately 11,500 rubles for it, and such an amount should pay off fairly quickly. Of course, during the production of this model we had to save money, and therefore you will not find here any advanced display with a scale or, especially, graphs. You will only be provided with numbers and a few indicators. But the product can make up to three measurements per second. In this case, measurements can be made in a variety of ways - resistance, voltage (DC and AC), current (also DC and AC), capacitance, frequency and even temperature are available to choose from. The average error is 1% - the result, I must say, is average.

An interesting feature of the device is the ability to switch to “sleep mode,” which can last up to half an hour. If this option bothers you, you can disable it. There is also a memory here that allows you to save a specific value from which the report will then start. As for temperature measurement, the supplied probe is only designed for 260°C. If you are interested in a higher temperature, you will need to purchase another probe.

Perhaps this model will not suit every professional. But with its purchase you can save a lot, and for some people this is the most important factor.

Advantages

Many measurement modes;

Belongs to CAT II 1000 V safety standard;

There is a stand;

The display can be backlit;

Temperature measurement available;

There are testing and dialing modes;

Memory is present;

Up to three measurements per second;

There is a “sleep mode”;

Flaws

The supplied probe will not withstand particularly high temperatures;

There is no possibility to transfer readings to a PC;

Not very large display;

Degree of protection - only IP40;

Quite a high measurement error;

The most expensive multimeter in our rating. Strictly speaking, this is already a full-fledged professional voltmeter, usually used somewhere in factories. There can be no talk of any portability here - the device is quite large, and its front panel is decorated with many buttons and controls. The main advantage of this device is its negligible base error. The manufacturer claims 0.0008%, and this number is confirmed by all kinds of tests. It is precisely because of the low error that the price tag reaches 725 thousand rubles. As they say, a large enterprise will not go bankrupt from such expenses, and the average consumer does not need the KEYSIGHT 3458A for nothing.

This device is included in the State Register of Measuring Instruments under number 25900-03. This allows the voltmeter to be considered an industry standard. The manufacturer guarantees not only high measurement accuracy, but also maximum speed. Up to 100 thousand readings can occur in one second! It remains to add that the device measures voltage and current (both variable and constant), resistance, period, frequency and ratio of constant voltages.

Advantages

The voltmeter is in the State Register of Measuring Instruments;

There is a memory for 75 thousand samples;

Operating frequency band - up to 12 MHz;

The error reaches an insignificant value;

Many different types of measurements;

Lightning fast measurement speed;

Flaws

Astronomical price tag;

Is stationary.

Best multimeter for cars

A wonderful multimeter that should help when repairing car electronics. It has a yellow body that can withstand multiple landings on concrete. And this is not the first multimeter in our rating equipped with a stand. The product also boasts an IP67 protection class. This means that the device can not only fall, but also be exposed to the rain. This tool is often used in small enterprises, where the basic error of up to 0.5% is not a problem. Like all multimeters in this price segment, the device takes three measurements per second. By the way, they are asking about 35 thousand rubles for this model in Russian retail.

The product measures AC and DC current, AC and DC voltage, as well as capacitance, frequency and resistance. Also here you can check the integrity of the electrical circuit (the so-called continuity test). Finally, temperature measurement is also available here - you just need to connect the appropriate probe.

The device has a fairly large display, which is also equipped with a backlight. The selection of measurement ranges here is carried out only manually. The whole thing is powered by three AA batteries. They are included in the kit if you are interested. The buyer will also receive a convenient carrying case.

Advantages

Many types of measurements;

There is a stand;

There is a memory mode;

Three measurements per second;

Diode testing is possible;

The large display is complemented by backlighting;

Reliable and high-quality assembly;

Dust and waterproof housing;

Not very high error;

Flaws

Cannot be connected to a computer;

The price tag will not seem humane to everyone.

Conclusion

This is a list of the most worthy multimeters to buy. At the same time, we tried to talk strictly about those models that are sold in Russian retail - you do not need to waste time on tedious waiting for delivery. Now all you have to do is decide on the amount you are willing to spend on purchasing a useful device for your household or even professional needs.

All multimeters are divided into two main types: digital and analog, however, in this article we will consider only digital multimeters, since analog ones have limited functionality and are used very rarely in modern conditions, although they have certain advantages.

Criterias of choice

When choosing a multimeter, you must first of all be guided by how you are going to use the multimeter and what electrical quantities to measure.

If we are talking about diagnosing voltage, current and resistance, then in most cases it will be quite sufficient to have a simple and inexpensive device with a basic set of functions.

If more complex measurements are required with the ability to save the results in the device’s memory and transfer them to a personal computer, then a more expensive device will be required. You should also pay attention to the ease of use of the device, measurement accuracy and ergonomics.

Victor VC830L

This brand has gained enormous popularity among users for its ascetic and neat design, reliability and high accuracy. The multimeter includes a minimum of options, which include; simple continuity test, measurement of direct and alternating voltage, direct current up to 10 A, resistance.

The device has a fairly low cost in its price range and the lowest measurement error. The advantages include a large backlit display on some modifications.

UNI-T UT33A

This multimeter has a full set of basic functions, but unlike the previous model, the selection of the measurement limit of parameters is carried out automatically, which is undoubtedly very convenient for the user. From the photo of the multimeter we can see that in addition to the basic options, the device is also equipped with a panel for testing transistors.

If there is no activity on the part of the user, the device automatically turns off after 30 minutes. This brand is distinguished by its compactness and ergonomics, it is comfortable to hold in your hand, although there is no screen backlight.

CEM DT-61

Along with the basic options, this model is capable of solving more complex problems, such as measuring capacitance, temperature, humidity, light level and noise.

The device is equipped with an automatic shutdown function to save battery power, as well as a display backlight and a setting change mode. Built-in overload protection eliminates the need to change fuses. Very nice design.

Mastech MS8260E

This model also includes all the standard options, but in addition can measure alternating current and parameters such as coil inductance and capacitance, and is also equipped with a device for testing transistors. The body is rubberized to prevent slipping.

APPA 107N

It has an almost unlimited number of possibilities, which determines its high cost. In addition to basic electrical parameters such as voltage, current and resistance, this device is capable of measuring capacitance, inductance, frequency, temperature, and duty cycle. At the same time, the device is well protected from humidity and dust, and has high impact resistance.

This model is equipped with its own memory for storing operations and can be connected to a computer; in addition, there is overload protection and an energy saving function. It should also be noted that the accuracy is very high.

Fluke 17B+

Currently, this brand is one of the most popular on the market. In addition to the main functions, it can test semiconductor elements, measure direct and alternating current with a voltage not exceeding 1000V, electrical capacitance, frequency and temperature with minimal error.

The device itself automatically adjusts to the measurements taken and is equipped with an internal memory for storing data about the latest operations. The case is quite ergonomic and protected from slipping.

Conclusion

Thus, in this review we have considered a far from complete catalog of digital testers. The selection was focused on today's most popular models that meet the criteria of quality and ease of use.

Photos of the best multimeters