Best multimeter under 100 2023

A multimeter can make all of your electrical projects simpler, safer, and more effective, regardless of whether you’re a seasoned professional electrician, a DIY novice, or somewhere in between. In fact, it will be difficult to find a versatile tool that is as useful and as reasonably priced as a quality multimeter.

Digital multimeters, which are generally used to measure voltage, current, and resistance, have swiftly evolved into a necessary diagnostic tool for anyone working with electrical systems. But how can you be sure that you’re really getting your money’s worth when you buy a new multimeter with so many versions on the market today?

We evaluated and compared more than twenty multimeters in order to respond to that question. You’ll discover our top recommendations for every category and price range in the reviews that follow, along with an useful tutorial to get you up to speed on multimeter basics so you can make the best decision for your unique needs.

Our Top List

Best multimeter under 100 review 2023

AstroAI TRMS 6000 Multimeter – Best Overall

There is a recurrent pattern among the several multimeters covered in these reviews: nearly every digital multimeter is held to a very high standard for quality, accuracy, and versatility. A multimeter must possess something absolutely unique in order to distinguish out from the competition and be declared the victor as our top overall pick.

The TRMS 6000 from AstroAI accomplishes this by having integrated ceramic fuse tubes that are explosion-proof. These fuses are safe and dependable, and they will successfully prevent harm to the AstroAI’s internal components even in the case of an unintentional overload. It’s a game-changer in the field of health and safety since it can shield the multimeter from all angles.

The TRMS 6000’s other features are also excellent. It is simple to use and interpret, offers a variety of testing choices, and has professional-level accuracy, making it perfect for both domestic and industrial applications. In conclusion, we believe it to be the greatest multimeter of the year and have chosen it for our personal toolbox. Naturally, we advise you to do the same!

PROS

• Tests for voltage, current, resistance, continuity, capacitance, frequency, diodes, transistors, and temperature
• Features auto-ranging capabilities
• Large backlit screen, kickstand, hanging magnet, and data hold function make it easy to use
• Explosion-proof ceramic tube fuses protect from any accidental overloads
• 3-year warranty
• Surprisingly affordable

CONS

• Does not feature drop protection

INNOVA 3320 Multimeter – Best Value

Drop protection is a feature found in very few other multimeters, and INNOVA’s 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter is available for almost the same price as our top pick. As one of the greatest multimeters for the money, simple rubber corner guards offer all the protection required to significantly increase this multimeter’s durability.

The INNOVA’s huge LCD display and simple to use front-facing controls making it incredibly user-friendly and extensively suited to a range of domestic projects. It doesn’t have nearly the same range of features as our top pick, but it’s still a very useful multimeter for DIY enthusiasts at home on a budget.

PROS

• Durable rubber corner guards protect it from fall damage
• Big LCD display and clearly printed functions
• Helpful auto-ranging function makes it easy to establish accurate measurements
• Incredibly affordable and long-lasting

CONS

• Does not have temperature testing capabilities
• No built-in protections for overloads

Fluke 117 Multimeter – Premium Choice

Fluke has established such a strong brand recognition in the multimeter industry that enthusiasts will often refer to anything that possesses Fluke’s distinctive styling as a “Fluke multimeter.” This may also be the case given the high cost of a genuine Fluke, but in our opinion, the extra expense is well justified by the instrument’s remarkable accuracy and flawless design.

The Fluke 117 is a perfect instrument for use in the industry and is one of the few multimeters on the market today that was created by a group of qualified electricians. The Fluke is a multifunctional device with extra features including VoltAlert technology for detecting non-contact voltage and exceptionally low input impedance that avoids erroneous readings. The 117 is our pick for the best premium multimeter, and it really gets better when you consider that it has a CAT III 600 Volt safety rating.

PROS

• Designed by professional electricians for use by professional electricians
• Specialized features prevent false readings and allow for accurate measurements
• White LED- backlit screen works well even in low light settings
• Category III safety rating makes it more than capable of handling commercial jobs
• Ergonomic design allows for easy one-handed operation

CONS

• Expensive

Extech EX330 Autoranging Mini Multimeter

The Extech EX330 multimeter is small but mighty and provides a comprehensive range of features and operations in a portable design. However, with a CAT III safety rating, the EX330 is equipped to handle even the biggest household electrical projects and the majority of commercial usage.

With the Extech, you can quickly take consistent, trustworthy measurements with a built-in AC voltage detector and auto-ranging technology. A resolution of three decimal places also provides excellent precision.

The EX330 is a strong and reliable tiny machine that will fit in anyone’s toolbox and is shielded by a full-circle rubber holster. Although it isn’t the cheapest multimeter you’ll find, the Extech is an excellent option if you’re searching for a UL-certified item that falls in the middle of our top and premium choice recommendations.

PROS

• Encased in a rubber holster that protects from fall damage
• Compact design makes it easy to use and carry
• Certified Category III safety rating makes it suitable for commercial use
• Auto-ranging feature allows for precise and reliable measurements

CONS

• Fairly pricey
• Operates on two AA batteries, so battery life may no be great

Amprobe AM-510 Multimeter

Amprobe’s AM-510 Multimeter, one of the less priced multimeters to be rated for CAT III 600V, omits some of the features, bells, and whistles of other models in our reviews in order to concentrate on a more constrained selection of industrial and domestic applications. It’s a simple multimeter that will appeal to minimalists, with readings for AC/DC, resistance, frequency, and capacitance as its main features.

The Amprobe is safeguarded from drops by a firmly secured rubber shell, which works well with the business’ “No Hassle” warranty policy. You can take the AM-510 to any authorized dealer to have it replaced right away if it ever breaks down. What fantastic client service!

The only real drawback of the AM-510 is that it has fewer functions and a narrower range of precision when compared to other multimeters. However, it competes favorably and is available at a great price for general-purpose work in a range of sectors.

PROS

• Excellent CAT III usage rating makes it suitable for commercial use
• Durable construction and added protection from molded rubber casing
• Backlit LCD display is easy to read
• Available at a great price relative to its CAT rating

CONS

• Fewer available measurement features than other multimeters at this price
• Resolution measures only to one or two decimal places
• Need a HVAC multimeter?

BSIDE ZT100 Digital Pocket Multimeter

Given its pocket-sized design, the number of features BSIDE has crammed into their ZT100 multimeter is quite astounding. With the BSIDE, you won’t be short on testing options thanks to its large selection of manual and automatic detection modes and its incredibly informative LCD readout.

However, you could find it more difficult than you’d want to navigate the vast amount of settings and information accessible on this little multimeter, as we did. While having the appropriate tool for any work is undoubtedly useful, we would have wanted to have all of these alternatives in one larger unit for more usability.

Despite this, the ZT100 is reasonably priced considering how many functions and testing options it provides. This item from BSIDE will be ideal for you if you’re searching for the smallest multimeter with the most settings.

PROS

• Compact and lightweight design is easy to carry in any toolbox
• Widest range of automatic and manual detection modes available at this price
• Inverted LCD screen is much easier to read even in direct sunlight

CONS

• Crowded display area can be hard to parse information from
• Large number of functions in a small area can be difficult to adjust properly

Mastech MS8268 Digital Multimeter

Mastech, a sister firm to the more well-known Sinometer, makes large, robust multimeters that might be more appealing to traditional electricians due to their streamlined features and displays. Through the front control panel, all of the common measurement tools are conveniently accessible, and the back-mounted lead holders are a wonderful addition that many other multimeters may learn from.

However, we do wish that Mastech’s designers had paid closer attention to how rapidly this machine depletes its battery supply. It doesn’t come with batteries, so you’ll need to purchase those in addition to it. While three AAA batteries will work just fine, if you intend to use this multimeter for more than just the odd test, you should get extra.

PROS

• Large case and display are easy  to set up
• Lead holders are on the back of the device for easy use and storage
• Includes auto-ranging feature for continuity checks
• 1-year warranty

CONS

• Does not automatically zero out readings
• Drains batteries quickly while in use
• We reviewed the best analog multimeters

Klein Tools Auto-Ranging Multimeter

We had high expectations for the Klein Tools Auto-Ranging Multimeter because it was the only multimeter with a CAT IV safety rating to appear in our testing. At first sight, it appears to live up to its higher price with an ultra-simple reading, functionalities, heavy-duty build, and excellent longevity. But upon closer examination, we’re not so certain that this is a multimeter worth purchasing.

A peculiar occurrence occurred while we were evaluating this Klein Tools multimeter: After switching it off, the device frequently wouldn’t turn back on unless we fiddled with the battery placement or completely changed the batteries. This kind of oversight is simply unacceptable when effectiveness and accuracy are crucial.

PROS

• CAT IV safety rating certified

CONS

• May not turn back on after even short periods of use
• Seems to have problems with battery connections not providing power
• Non-responsive customer service

TekPower Digital Multimeter

It can be helpful to contrast a tool with a comparable one whose price is excessive in order to choose one that is actually worth the money. This digital multimeter from TekPower is noticeably pricey and unimpressive in the field.

The TekPower’s key selling point, which it claims to have Bluetooth and PC compatibility, is its connectivity, although it falls short of that claim. Both of the features in the unit we tested were ineffective, and none of the three computers in our home would recognize the accompanying CD.

There is no reason we can think of to purchase this product, especially when you consider the cheap plastic appearance, complete lack of an auto-off feature, and usually erroneous measurements for the majority of operating modes.

PROS

• Advertises itself as the first cell phone connected multimeter

CONS

• Connectivity via Bluetooth or USB did not work in the product we tested
• Flimsy plastic construction
• Far too expensive for what it offers
• Does not include an auto-off function and quickly drains batteries.

Buyer’s Guide: How to Choose the Best Multimeter

Being able to fit so many capabilities into such a compact device is a great achievement, but it can also be confusing for people who have never used a multimeter before. Follow along as we address some of the most frequently asked questions regarding multimeters and describe the variations in design and features that set various models apart.

How Do Multimeters Work?

Multimeters are one of the best options for accuracy and adaptability on a job site because they are the de facto measurement tool for almost all types of electrical work. They are a necessary component of every electrician’s toolkit and make working on home electronics projects considerably more precise.

Although there are separate tools available to complete each of the measures made by a multimeter, the cost and logistical challenges of carrying almost a dozen distinct equipment about make the multimeter the clear winner. Specialized multimeters will enable safe use across all systems if you’re an electrical technician with specific requirements, such as checking HVAC systems.

Multimeters are frequently found in the tool bags of electricians for good reason—they are convenient, inexpensive, and effective for a number of tasks.

Types of Multimeters

Multimeters can be broadly categorized into two groups, with a third, far more specialized form being much less common:

Early 1920s saw the first widespread use of analog multimeters, which are based on much earlier electrical technology that dates back to the 1820s. All but the most traditional of electricians and engineers have given up using analog multimeters as digital technology have advanced and become more affordable.

• Digital multimeters are the tool of choice for modern- day electrical workers. They’re capable of measuring frequency, conductivity, continuity, inductance, and resistance, and can be broadly divided into four main categories:
  • Category I, used for testing electronic devices and small equipment
  • Category II, for testing appliances and household energy levels
  • Category III, capable of testing small to medium industrial capacity circuits
  • Category IV, the heaviest-duty multimeters designed for testing power lines and main commercial feeds
• Special Use multimeters may include measurements for such units as decibels, rotations per minute, microamps, and more. Additionally, you can find multimeters designed for the requirements of specific jobs such as HVAC installation.

What to Look for In the Best Multimeter

What exactly distinguishes one multimeter from another? It can be difficult to say because there are numerous variations accessible and no one standardized model. For this guide’s testing and review of multimeters, we considered the following factors:

A multimeter’s usability can be made or broken by its ability to provide clear readouts and obvious controls, which will make your life much simpler. We favor backlit LCD screens because they are simpler to use in low light conditions.

If the multimeter you’re considering is capable of the tasks you have in mind, check at its maximum measurement capacities. Any typical digital multimeter will work for general use, although more robust tools can be needed for specialized tasks.

• Accuracy is a must and is sometimes given by the manufacturer as a maximum permissible error limit. Modern digital multimeters are pre-calibrated and hardly ever need to be adjusted during the course of their lifetime.
• Energy Capacity determines just how big of a job you can use your multimeter for.High capacity fuses, which are found in our preferred multimeters, effectively safeguard the functional parts of your multimeter in the event of an overload.
• Resolution, or the number of decimal places to which the reading on your multimeter is correct, describes the changeable specificity of the readout. Although many home repair chores don’t require much resolution beyond two decimal places, finer-scale tasks will demand more resolution.
• You won’t have to memorize measurements on the spot thanks to data hold functions while testing across several of them. It’s a surprisingly handy feature that’s not essential, but quite nice to have.

Multimeter Benefits and Why You Should Own A Multimeter

Still not convinced that a digital multimeter is a good idea? Here are our top justifications for why every do-it-yourself enthusiast ought to possess one, as well as what to search for in the best digital multimeter money can buy:

• Automatic Readings shown on an LCD screen make it simple to quickly become familiar with all the multimeter’s features and offer a potent tool for on-the-spot measurements and electrical component troubleshooting.
• Tremendous Accuracy is a feature of digital multimeters, and many of our favorite models measure with a resolution of up to four decimal places. A multimeter will give you the information you need to decide what to do next with your electrical work on both large and little jobs.
• Auto-Polarity Checking offers both positive and negative numbers, which is particularly helpful when measuring voltage.
• Voltage Checking enables users to quickly establish whether the circuit they’re checking is AC or DC, which is a prerequisite for any repairs or alterations.
• Continuity Checking will instantly identify any damaged wires or loose connections in an electronic device. This is especially helpful while soldering wires because it enables you to see how the repairs are progressing in real-time.

Conclusion

It takes a lot of work to reduce a large field of deserving contenders to only a few of the best multimeters. However, we’re clear about which multimeter we believe to be the best overall when taking everything into account, including pricing, ease of use, testing capabilities, and warranties: The AstroAI TRMS 6000. Simply said, it offers the best of all worlds in one convenient packaging and is a professional-quality multimeter at a hobbyist price. It is without a doubt the best multimeter, in our opinion, for the widest range of applications.

The INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter, however, is a close second on our list of the finest multimeters. Even if we somewhat prefer the top pick’s user-friendly interface, the INNOVA’s rubber corner guards increase its durability and fall protection. The INNOVA 3320 is undoubtedly the most robust of all the items in our reviews if you’re looking for the finest multimeter for a job site that can withstand a beating and still working.

Last update on 2023-05-29 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API