Best Multimeters for Electricians 2023

Imagine that you are driving along the freeway when a state trooper passes you. What comes to mind first? To determine your speed, you’ll probably glance down at your speedometer.

Without an instrument panel, it would be hard to determine the speed. The same holds true when determining intangible values such as current, voltage, and amps. We require a multimeter to measure these items.

A multimeter is necessary for an electrician (and convenient for do-it-yourself homes), therefore we’ve reviewed the top models in this guide to assist you in making the best decision.

I strongly advise electricians to purchase a multimeter with a 600 volt measurement capability. That ought to cover every situation you encounter on the job site.

Our personal favorite among those we studied that were the best in the business was the Klein Tools CL800 Digital Clamp Meter. But any multimeter mentioned in this post is a fantastic choice.

We made sure to take into account both the technical specs of each item and reviews from other qualified electricians. So without further ado, let us to introduce you to the top electrician multimeters.

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Our Top Picks

Klein Tools CL800 Electrical Tester, Digital Clamp Meter – Top Pick

Pros

• Class 2 — double insulated — safety rating.
• Safety-rated for CAT III/CAT IV applications.
• Automatic ranging for quick, easy analysis.
• Low Z — low impedance — mode for more accuracy around ghost voltages.
• Durable; built to survive a 2-meter drop.

Cons

• Expensive clamp meter model.
• Thermocouple probe readings aren’t accurate — variations of 7 degrees or more.

Top Features

This CL800 Digital Clamp Meter and Probe Tester from Klein Tools, which produces a number of excellent electricians’ tools, is at the top of our list for a reason.

The Klein CL800 is a clamp meter, like the majority of the multimeters in this list, which is now the industry standard for measuring current safely. Everything else you could want to know will be measured by the test leads with this device, including the AC frequency and the operation of the test diodes. A thermocouple probe is also included with this model to measure temperature.

The sophisticated safety features of the Klein CL800 set it apart from the competition, and they also account for the multimeter’s premium price. As we discuss in more detail later in this article, the CL800 is rated for testing CAT III (up to 1000V surges) and CAT IV (up to 600V surges) applications. Many other multimeters can only be used for CAT II tests that are carried out inside or close to a vehicle.

Additionally, the Klein CL800 is double-insulated and has a Class 2 safety rating. This indicates that there are two insulation layers on the gadget to prevent electrocution. As a result, the device can operate safely without a ground connection.

TRMS measurements, which are more precise than the alternative, are taken using this multimeter. The Klein CL800 additionally features a low impedance (Low Z) mode that ignores ghost voltages when measuring voltage. The device becomes more accurate and safer to use as a result of this function.

Additionally, it is incredibly strong and can endure drops from ladders or other locations while you are working on your house or car.

The volatility and imprecision of the thermocouple are the only issues that customers and electricians have raised with this multimeter. Some users reported temperature errors of 7-8 degrees F.

The CL800 is a good option for one of the top multimeters for electricians; although it is a bit pricey, its safety and toughness make up for the difference.

Specifications

• Analysis Method: True Root Mean Squared (TRMS).
• Current Measurement: Clamp (AC/DC, automatic ranging).
• Non-contact voltage detection: No.
• Low Z Voltage Setting: Yes.

• Test Leads: AC/DC voltage (automatic ranging), resistance, continuity, frequency, capacitance and diodes.
• Temperature Thermocouple: Yes.
• Safety: 600V CAT IV/1000V CAT III.

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Klein Tools CL380 AC/DC Digital Clamp Meter – Best Budget

Pros

• TRMS measurements.
• Automatic ranging for quick, easy analysis.
• Can measure DC microamps.
• Non-contact voltage tester for additional safety.
• Type K thermocouple for temperature measurements.

Cons

• Not rated for CAT III/CAT IV measurements.
• LCD is hard to read in direct sunlight.

Top Features

This second tool from Klein Tools is a less expensive, budget-friendly alternative that lacks some of the safety features of the CL800.

Because the CL380 lacks a CAT III or CAT IV safety classification, you should only use this specific multimeter indoors and close to your car.

However, we are not yet forcing it out of bed. The clamp meter is still reliable and has automatic ranging. With this multimeter, either AC or DC currents up to 400 amps can be measured. Additionally, the TRMS measures provide you with the extra accuracy you need more effectively than the root mean squared substitute measurements.

It’s important to note that the probes can measure DC currents as low as microamps if you need to monitor tiny electrical circuits.

You are already aware that a clamp meter is used to measure current in a secure, non-contact manner. Non-contact voltage detection is an additional function of the CL380 clamp meter. The same clamp can be used to determine whether a wire is “hot,” or if it has a potentially hazardous voltage potential, without exposing wires or making contact. This is a useful feature that could even save a life.

Reverse contrast LCD users who were outside have complained that it is difficult to read in bright sunshine, so be aware of that and wear sunglasses if necessary!

Overall, this multimeter is among the finest for electricians working indoors or in a garage. The Klein CL380 is a fantastic inexpensive choice for electricians working on their own homes and mechanics who want to work on their cars, despite being a step down from the CL800 in terms of quality and safety.

Specifications

• Analysis Method: True Root Mean Squared (TRMS).
• Current Measurement: Clamp (AC/DC, automatic ranging).
• Non-contact voltage detection: Yes.
• Low Z Voltage Setting: No.

• Test Leads: AC/DC voltage (automatic ranging), DC microamp current, resistance, continuity, frequency, duty cycle, capacitance and diodes.
• Temperature Thermocouple: Yes.
• Safety: No CAT IV/CAT III specifications.

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Fluke 323 True-RMS Clamp Meter – RunnerUp

Pros

• TRMS measurements for non-linear loads.
• Automatic ranging for quick, easy analysis.
• Audible continuity detection.
• Extremely compact and convenient handheld size.
• Meets IEC safety standards.
• Rated for 300 volt CAT IV measurements, 600 volt CAT III measurements.

Cons

• Does not measure direct current.
• No thermocouple.

Top Features

Fluke is another great brand name that’s nearly synonymous with the best multimeters for electricians in the industry.

The first Fluke tool on our list is a low-cost version that has been simplified for the benefit of a homeowner or novice user. Due to its portability and lightweight design, it can be used as a handheld measurement tool for a variety of household problems.

The Fluke 323 measures voltage, resistance, and AC/DC in the same way as our other highlighted items. But because it doesn’t measure DC, it can’t be used to test any battery-operated gadgets or any electronics in your car that are powered by a 12-volt car battery.

Given that it is a clamp meter with automatic range, the Fluke 323 is an excellent instrument for people who are purchasing their first multimeter. For maximum accuracy, it even measures using the TRMS technique.

Additionally, CAT III and CAT IV measurements are supported. Even though we never advise testing these kind of measurements without the necessary training, it’s comforting to know that you have a tool that can safely operate in those circumstances when necessary. Additionally, this gadget complies with IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) safety requirements (IEC).

However, more versatile devices are covered in this article. The Fluke 323 tests current, voltage, and resistance, and although you may expect a multimeter to be able to test capacitance, diode operation, or take temperature readings, this is actually what the finest multimeters for electricians should be able to perform.

Specifications

• Analysis Method: True Root Mean Squared (TRMS).
• Current Measurement: Clamp (up to 400 amps, AC only, automatic ranging).
• Non-contact voltage detection: No.
• Low Z Voltage Setting: No.

• Test Leads: AC/DC voltage (up to 600 volts, automatic ranging), resistance (up to 4 kiloohms), and continuity.
• Temperature Thermocouple: No.
• Safety: 300V CAT IV/600V CAT III.

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Ideal 61-746 Digital Clamp Meter – RunnerUp 2

Pros

• TRMS measurements for linear or non-linear loads.
• Automatic ranging for quick, easy analysis.
• Audible continuity detection.
• Non-contact voltage indicator.
• Rated for 600 volt CAT III measurements.

Cons

• Doesn’t measure direct current.
• Not rated for CAT IV measurements.

Top Features

The Ideal 61-746 clamp meter is a somewhat less expensive alternative to the Fluke 323 and lacks some of the safety and adaptability of the Fluke rivalry, but it lowers its price to entice new homes and inexperienced electricians. It’s one of the greatest multimeters for electricians because of the value it provides.

Because it is still an automatic ranging clamp meter with TRMS measurements, even a novice at electrical home improvements will be able to pick up and utilize this tool right away. Your measurements and analysis will yield clear, simple-to-read findings on the digital LCD.

In addition, this clamp meter offers non-contact voltage detection, which is much safer than the Fluke 323 because it eliminates the need to expose any wires in order to check whether they are hot. Another fantastic feature for rapidly detecting whether a circuit is functional is the auditory continuity buzzer.

However, the Ideal 61-746, like the Fluke 323, does not measure direct current, making it ineffective near your car, truck, or RV. It is best to use this meter indoors near AC outlets.

If you believe your issues are outside, you can take it to your electrical mains because it is rated for CAT III readings. This multimeter can also be used to test the main feeders and branch circuits to your home, among other potential places.

Although the Ideal 61-746 lacks a thermocouple, it can still measure current, voltage, and resistance. You should usually get in touch with a certified electrician if you need to perform more intricate measurements or troubleshooting.

Specifications

• Analysis Method: True Root Mean Squared (TRMS).
• Current Measurement: Clamp (up to 600 amps, AC only, automatic ranging).
• Non-contact voltage detection: Yes.
• Low Z Voltage Setting: No.

• Test Leads: AC/DC voltage (up to 600 volts, automatic ranging), resistance (up to 40 ohms), and continuity.
• Temperature Thermocouple: No.
• Safety: 600V CAT III.

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Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter – Upgrade Pick

Pros

• TRMS measurements.
• Automatic ranging.
• Minimum, maximum, and average readings.
• Compact, ergonomic one-handed design.
• Super accurate measurement resolution.
• Rated for 600 volt CAT III measurements.

Cons

• Not a clamp meter.
• No thermocouple.

Top Features

The most sophisticated Fluke multimeter was saved for last in this essay. Unexpectedly, it’s not a clamp meter, but we have no doubt that you’ll recognize the incredible benefits that this multimeter provides.

The Fluke 117 is the most capable multimeter for electricians we’ve examined, despite lacking a clamp to measure current. This tool can measure the common voltage, current, and resistance. It can also be used to test diodes and measure capacitance, frequency, and continuity. Additionally, it has a safe, non-contact voltage detection system.

The Fluke 117 is just unrivaled in terms of precision. Of course, it measures with TRMS precision, and its AutoVolt option can quickly determine if a voltage is direct or alternating current.

When measuring voltage, it also features a low impedance mode to get rid of ghost voltages. Of all the multimeters in this evaluation, its voltage readings are the most precise, offering millivolt-level readings.

It is also remarkably adaptable and user-friendly for such a sophisticated piece of technology. The LCD features a strong backlight that allows you to use it anywhere you want because the screen is always visible. In addition to monitoring instantaneous values, it can also measure minimum, maximum, and average values for any electrical values you’re measuring.

In order to comply with the requirements of the International Electrotechnical Commission rules, it is safety rated for CAT III measures up to 600 volts and surge protection up to 6 kilovolts (IEC 61010–1). It is also ergonomically and compactly intended for one-handed use, just like the other Fluke 323.

To be clear, CAT IV measures are not what it is intended for. Additionally, it lacks a thermocouple for measuring temperature. But the Fluke 117 is arguably the best multimeter for electricians on the market for all the additional precise and secure measurements you need around the house or in your car.

Specifications

• Analysis Method: True Root Mean Squared (TRMS).
• Current Measurement: Probes (10 amps, automatic ranging).
• Non-contact voltage detection: Yes.
• Low Z Voltage Setting: Yes.

• Test Leads: AC/DC voltage (600 millivolts to 600 volts, automatic ranging), resistance (up to 40 megaohms), capacitance (up to 10,000 microfarads), frequency, diode functionality, and continuity.
• Temperature Thermocouple: No.
• Safety: 600V CAT III.

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Buying Guide: What to Look For in the Best Multimeters for Electricians 

No matter where you look for a multimeter online, their specifications might look needlessly technical and advanced. 

To help you choose, we have outlined the distinctions between the various types of multimeters in this section. Take your time and read this section thoroughly rather than rushing through it as you would your breakfast.

For your convenience, we’ve also put together a tutorial that goes over all the fundamentals of using and using a multimeter. Look it up!

Safety

Your security should always come first when handling electricity. Some multimeters contain insulation to safeguard the instrument in addition to your safety. You don’t want to replace your multimeter because of frequent electrocution or power surges because it is an investment in your future as an electrician.

Electrical Measurement Categories

You might want a multimeter that can handle higher voltages and currents depending on how you intend to use it. Electrical Measurement Categories, or CATs, are labels for the various circumstances in which you might use a multimeter.

• CAT I measurements: Performed on the smallest circuits and components, separated from the electrical mains.
• CAT II circuits: Connected to low-voltage mains, like lighting equipment and home appliances.
• CAT III measurements: Performed on distribution circuits, like primary feeders and branch circuits. They’re protected from CAT IV high-voltage sources by at least one step-down transformer.
• CAT IV measurements: These are the most dangerous and are made on primary supply sources — either 120 volts or 240 volts. Some examples of CAT IV measurements are exterior transformers or isolated power mains.

Remember that the currents are typically substantially higher for the higher measurement categories. Because of this, you must take into account the higher CAT levels’ safety rating for your multimeter. A multimeter with a CAT II safety rating of 1,000 volts might not be as secure as one with a CAT III or CAT IV safety rating of 600 volts.

CAT I and CAT II measurements are significantly safer because to the numerous transformers, ground connections, circuit interrupters, and insulators included in your home wiring. For CAT I and CAT II, you hardly ever require these extraordinarily high levels of surge protection.

Your CAT III and CAT IV protection levels, however, are far more crucial to your safety. Of all the multimeters in this study, the Klein Tools CL800 Digital Clamp Meter offers the best CAT III/CAT IV safety ratings.

Class 1 and Class 2 Appliances

Class 1 appliances have one basic layer of insulation, so they also require a grounding connection.

Class 2 appliances are also known as double insulated appliances since they contain two layers of insulation. They are not necessarily need to have a grounding connection because of the greater insulation. Because the best multimeters for electricians will feature a double box indication on the casing, you can quickly recognize double insulated appliances.

Accurate Measurement

Make sure you select a multimeter that provides you with precise, simple-to-read measurements because it will serve as your most crucial diagnostic tool. The best multimeters for electricians will offer TRMS measurements and digital displays.

Digital vs. Analog Meters

Every multimeter we’ve looked at has a digital display. The new norm is digital displays since they are more accurate and simpler to read. Whether you are measuring volts, amps, or ohms, digital displays will also display the appropriate units for your measurement.

Multiple units and ranges are displayed on an analog meter’s fixed display. When taking measures, which are marked with a needle that sweeps over the range, it can be challenging to identify which range to read.

However, there is one advantage to using analog meters when attempting to measure numbers that fluctuate greatly. In this case, a digital meter will display a range of readings, making it challenging to take an average measurement. In this case, an analog needle will move up and down the scale, and a keen eye can determine the average value.

A digital multimeter that takes average measurements is the greatest option for combining the precision of a digital meter and the readability of fluctuating values in analog meters. The only multimeter we’ve reviewed with measurement averaging is the Fluke 117.

Root Mean Squared vs. True Root Mean Squared

Direct current (DC) measurement is more simpler than measuring alternating current (AC). One reason is because AC alternates between positive and negative current multiple times every second. Typically, this cycle looks like a smooth, continuous wave.

In the past, multimeters calculated the average value by multiplying the peak value by a reduction factor to provide a reliable average. This factor serves as a reliable approximation for currents that precisely match a sine wave. The root mean squared, or RMS measurement, is the name of this approach.

However, by employing the true root mean squared (TRMS) approach, current multimeters can be far more accurate. During the AC cycle, these multimeters take instantaneous readings and average them using a challenging geometric mean procedure.

Although understanding the precise mathematical formula is not required, it is useful to be aware that TRMS readings are the most accurate. For TRMS measurements, the Klein Tools CL800 Digital Clamp Meter is a great choice.

Low Impedance vs. High Impedance

Accurate voltage measurement is notoriously difficult because “ghost voltages” can taint the reading. Ghost voltages are produced by induction from other adjacent power sources like magnetic fields or fluorescent lamp ballasts.

Ghost voltages can impact a measurement, introduce errors, and even result in false-positive readings when checking for live wires. It’s risky to deal with a circuit or wire that displays an incorrect voltage measurement because it isn’t actually carrying any current.

These ghost voltages are not picked up by a low impedance, or Low-Z, multimeter, which improves the accuracy and reliability of the reading. For the most accurate Low-Z measurements, choose the Fluke 117.

Clamp Meters

Current is the measurement you’ll need to take the most frequently. The majority of issues can be quickly identified by measuring current, as can the safety of a wire or circuit.

The new standard for multimeters is clamp meters, which offer a very rapid and practical approach to measure current. They may measure the net current through magnetic induction without the need for any exposed wires by surrounding a wire with a hinged induction clamp.

Although clamp-on multimeters are faster at detecting current, non-clamping multimeters are still more common because they are more accurate and can measure lower quantities of current.

Since no exposed wires are required, using your meter’s clamping feature to rapidly establish whether a wire is carrying current is quite safe. The clamp, though, is solely for current. The probe leads are still required for almost all other measurements, including voltage and resistance.

The probes on your multimeter may also give you a more accurate measurement. For most applications, however, the clamp current measurement is sufficient.

The hinged induction clamp addresses certain significant risks associated with electrical work but not all of them. Over the traditional probe clamps, it offers a significant increase in safety.

The Fluke 117 Electrician’s True RMS Multimeter is the only non-clamp multimeter in this article.

Automatic Ranging Meters

If you’ve ever used a multimeter without automatic ranging, you’ll be able to recall how to test something: always start at the highest range and gradually lower it until you get an accurate reading. Although it doesn’t interfere with electrical work, failing to remember to perform this can lead to damage to your multimeter’s internal circuits.

Modern multimeters offer automatic ranging, so you may measure current, voltage, or resistance without using the incremental range settings. Without putting the circuitry at risk of overloading or burning out, your multimeter can automatically determine the proper range for testing.

Regardless of the type of multimeter you pick, make sure to pick one with an usable range for all measurements. Your multimeter should be able to test direct currents as little as a few microamps, as well as direct currents as high as 600 volts and alternating currents as high as 400 amps.

While a decent automated range multimeter will cost more, it offers value by lowering the likelihood that your equipment will be damaged. Investing in an automated ranging multimeter, like the Klein Tools CL800 Digital Clamp Meter, is the safest choice and offers the best value because an error with an older multimeter will result in a replacement.

Additional Measurements

Any reliable multimeter can measure voltage, resistance, and current. A multimeter with true versatility will also measure the hertz (Hz) value of alternating current frequency. Among the multimeters we’ve reviewed, the Fluke 117 has the most measurement options.

Continuity/Diode Functionality

Some multimeters will also check a circuit’s continuity using a very modest current. If you feel a fuse has blown, this is useful. These multimeters may frequently measure the efficiency of diodes as well.

Some multimeters have a useful function where a tone plays when it finds circuit continuity. Similar to this, some multimeters come equipped with a non-contact voltage tester that can detect live wires without having to expose them to the probes.

Capacitance

Another characteristic that you might need to check with your multimeter is capacitance. A component known as a capacitor is used in some electrical devices to hold an electrical charge. Capacitance, which is measured in a unit called a farad, is the capacity to store this charge. Before purchasing a new multimeter, be sure it has this option because capacitors are present in many gadgets.

Temperature

Also, it never hurts to have an electrical way to measure temperature. Many electrical applications are also sensitive to temperatures or need to regulate temperatures. 

In order to eliminate the requirement for a liquid thermometer, modern multimeters frequently come with a thermocouple connection to monitor temperature. Although they might not be as accurate, thermocouples are also more adaptable than conventional thermometers for sensing temperature.

Conclusion

The Klein Tools CL800 Digital Clamp Meter is our top pick for the best multimeters for electricians. It is inexpensive, simple to use, and most importantly, beginner-safe. It is also flexible and capable of measuring everything you require. It’s a fantastic diagnostic tool that can be used in the garage or even around the house.

You can always get the Fluke 117 Electrician’s True RMS Multimeter if you want to pay a little more money for genuinely exceptional accuracy.

The Fluke 323 True-RMS Clamp Meter, on the other hand, is a good choice if you’re looking for something affordable and simple for novices.

We’re confident you’ll be satisfied with any of these selections because all of these items have strong justifications for being dubbed the best multimeters for electricians.

In this post, we aim to have educated you about multimeters and given you the knowledge and assurance to select one for your personal or professional use. Please forward this page to your electrical contacts, and feel free to comment below with your thoughts and preferences.

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