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Best Clamp meter for Electricians Top 10 Reviews and Buying Guide

By shafiq usama

10 best Clamp meter for electricians reviews

As an electrical engineer, I love explaining how things like circuits and electronics work. I write on my blog to share simple explanations, reviews, and useful tips about the latest technology.

The unit of electricity measurement is current. That's the reason every electrician needs an electrical tester to measure the precise current of any circuit. Now, if you look around, you will see two variants of electrical testers. Firstly, we have a multimeter with a maximum current measuring capacity of 20A. Secondly, we have a Clamp meter with a maximum current measuring capacity of 1000A. So, it is clear that to measure current; a clamp meter is always a better option. If you look around, you will see many best clamp meter for electricians. Here I have listed down 10 top picks.

How to measure amps with a clamp meter?

There are some standard methods to measure ac/dc amps with a clamp meter. To know this fact, one must learn about how a clamp meter works. If you clamp a current-carrying conductor, then a magnetic flux will be induced in the coil of the clamp meter. This magnetic flux will then be converted into the current with the help of any controller.

There are some limitations regarding Ac and dc measurements

  1. If you clamp a single phase with your clamp meter, you will get the most accurate result on each phase.
  2. If you pass two phases through the same clamp meter, you will get the same results with lesser precision.
  3. When you pass all three phases from a single clamp meter simultaneously, the result will be zero because all three phases cancel each other flux due to a difference of 120 degrees in each phase. In the same way, if you pass a live and neutral wire through a clamp meter, the result will be zero because of the same conditions mentioned above.

Is a clamp meter better than a multimeter?

It depends upon the nature of your job. For example, if you are a person who is more connected with electrical troubleshooting, then you need the best digital auto-ranging multimeter for electricians. On the other hand, if you want a DMM for electricians, you can visit our top 10 picks of multimeters for electricians

An electrician or technician has to check running loads more than once for industrial equipment and HVAC systems. For such jobs, a clamp meter is more suitable. If we have to take one side, then a digital clamp meter has more weight-age. A clamp meter can measure all electrical properties with a high current rating, so it is always one step ahead.

Can clamp meters measure DC Current?

To understand this question, firstly you need to know about the current. Current is basically the flow of electrons in any conductor. The thing which differentiates AC and DC is its direction. In AC circuits, we have a sine wave that moves in a back and forth direction periodically. Like in Fig.01. But in DC, the flow of electrons is steady and unidirectional like Fig.02.

best clamp meter for electricians

Now coming to the main point, a clamp meter measures DC. As we discussed above, the current is the flow of electrons, so yes, all best clamp meters for electricians can measure both AC/DC.

10 Best Clamp Meter for Electricians Reviews

A clamp meter is good enough only if it can measure current with high precision. Klein CL800 is one of those digital clamp meters which can be used for commercial purposes. It has high current measuring ranges with class 2 safety standards. If you want to test VFD current then it can be a perfect option. Furthermore, i have also make complete guide about testing VFD with multimeters.

Key Features

  • 6000 counts digital display
  • You can measure current up to 600A.
  • It can measure voltages
  • 600V with CAT-IV
  • 1000V with CAT-III
  • Auto Ranging Clamp meter for general use.
  • It can measure both ac/dc amperes.
  • You can attach a thermocouple for temperature measurement.
  • It can measure capacitance and frequency.
  • You can also test diodes with it.
  • LoZ Low impedance function removes all kinds of noises from circuits.
  • It comes with non-contact voltage (NCV) detection.

Pros

  • You can measure high voltages and current.
  • Dual safety standards
  • The data holding option is available.
  • Perfect for HVAC use.

Cons

  • Jaw size is smaller for bigger conductors.

Package includes

  • 1x Klein CL800 Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of test leads
  • 1x zippered pouch
  • 1x user manual
  • 2x AAA batteries

This fluke 323 Clamp meter can perform all multimeter functions with current measuring ability. So basically, this kit is a combo of Fluke T5-600 voltage continuity tester and Fluke 323. Now, if you're wondering why there is a need for a fluke continuity tester? The answer is simple with fluke t5-600, you can test live circuits and start your work with safety precautions quickly.

Key Features

  • It’s a multimeter with a 1000 count LCD.
  • Auto-ranging features enhance its safety.
  • A true RMS clamp meter for professionals.
  • You can measure Ac/DC up to 400A with fluke 323.
  • The current measuring range of T5-600 is 100A.
  • Its t5-600 clamp meter comes with an open jaw.
  • You can adjust the probe on it and test the voltages of any circuit.
  • You can measure voltages up to 1000V depending upon test lead safety standards.
  • Beep sound on continuity test
  • A voltage warning light is also available below the display.
  • The data holding option is also available.

Pros

  • 10 feet drop test approved clamp meter
  • Auto shutdown after 15 minutes of inactivity
  • The backlight on display is also available.
  • You can test live wire without clamping the Jaw.

Cons

  • The display count is low.

Package includes

  • 1x fluke 323 Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of test leads
  • 1x zippered pouch
  • 1x user manual

Electricians are not like DIYers, and they are always looking for robust and well-built clamp meters. Our list of best clamp meter for electricians can not be completed without a KAIWEETS clamp meter. There is no electrical value that you cannot measure with this KAIWEETs HT208A. From LoZ to VFD, almost every feature is available in it.

Key Features

  • It comes with an LCD of 6000 counts.
  • You can measure Alternating current (AC) up to 1000A.
  • You can measure the frequency of any electrical signal.
  • It comes with a min/max ranges function.
  • You can measure ac/dc 1000V.
  • There are only a few clamp meters that can measure capacitance, and this is one of them.
  • The diode test function is also available.
  • Temperature measurement in Both Celsius and Fahrenheit scales.
  • It has a separate function to ensure inrush current in the first 100ms.
  • LoZ low impedance to remove ghost voltages.
  • Non-contact voltage detection NCV is available.

Pros

  • 10 feet drop test approved clamp meter
  • Auto shutdown after 15 minutes of inactivity
  • The backlight on display is also available.
  • You can test live wire without clamping the Jaw.

Cons

  • The display count is low.

Package includes

  • 1x KAIWEETS Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of test leads
  • 1x zippered pouch
  • 3x AAA Batteries
  • 1x user manual
  • 1X Temperature probe

If you want all premium quality clamp meter functions in a mid-range budget, then UEi DL369 is for you. Like other clamp meters of premium class, it also offers you maximum safety standards. You can troubleshoot all industrial equipment and home appliances with this single electrical tester.

Key Features

  • It has a bigger LCD screen.
  • 4000 counts display
  • Auto-ranging
  • Non-contact voltage detection for live circuit testings
  • You can also perform a Hotwire with it.
  • You can measure current ranging between 2000 microamperes and 400A precisely.
  • It can measure voltages up to 1000V.
  • A separate diode test is also available.
  • You can also check the duty cycle of your AC circuits.
  • Low battery indication is also available.

Pros

  • The company offers a three-year warranty period.
  • Cheaper
  • Highly precise
  • It can measure mA also.

Cons

  • The data holding option is not available.

Package includes

  • 1x UEi Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of test leads
  • 1x zippered pouch
  • 2x AAA Batteries
  • 1x user manual

The best clamp meter for the electricians is difficult to choose. Because they are used constantly throughout working hours. An electrician without an electrical tester is blind. I have also compiled a list of the best multimeters for HVAC electricians, which you can visit. Extech clamp meters are perfect for HVAC systems due to two reasons. Firstly it can measure higher current levels, and secondly, you can also measure temperature with it.

Key Features

  • True RMS clamp meter
  • 30mm jaw size is perfect for bigger conductors
  • It can measure 10mA to 400A ac/dc current.
  • You can measure frequency up to 10Mhz.
  • You can measure ac and dc voltages up to 600V.
  • It can measure capacitance up to 40mF.
  • Availability of Non-contact voltage detection NCV Function.
  • Data hold option to see fluctuating values.
  • It is also equipped with a flashlight.
  • You can also measure temperature with a K-type thermocouple
  • A diode test function is also available for lab use.

Pros

  • Low battery indication
  • Auto shutdown after 15minutes of inactivity.
  • Max/Min ranges.
  • Offset adjustments

Cons

  • The display is smaller.

Package includes

  • 1x Extech Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of test leads
  • 1x pouch
  • 1x k-type thermocouple
  • 3x AAA Batteries

The most common issue with standard quality clamp meters is that they have a low current carrying capacity. Fieldpiece SC440 Clamp meter is known for its precise measurements and industrial compatibility. Fieldpiece SC440 review might help you in finding its features easily. The best clamp meter for electricians must possess noise cancellation features.

Key Features

  • True RMS multimeter
  • Bigger dual-line display
  • mA measuring capabilities.
  • You can also measure inrush current easily.
  • Temperature measurement is also available in both Celsius and Fahrenheit scales.
  • You can also check frequency by just clamping the conductors.
  • Non-contact voltage detection is also available.
  • It can also test diodes easily.

Pros

  • The blue backlight display gives it a premium look.
  • A thermocouple also comes with it.
  • A hot wire indicator light is also available.
  • You can also hold the data on display.

Cons

  • It's a bit difficult to measure inrush current.

Package includes

  • 1x Fieldpiece SC440 Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of test leads
  • 1x Carrying pouch
  • 1x k-type thermocouple
  • 1x Pair of alligator clips
  • 1x additional Pair of test leads

The most common issue with standard quality clamp meters is that they have a low current carrying capacity. Fieldpiece SC440 Clamp meter is known for its precise measurements and industrial compatibility. Fieldpiece SC440 review might help you in finding its features easily. The best clamp meter for electricians must possess noise cancellation features.

Key Features

  • 2000 counts bight LCD
  • True RMS clamp meter
  • Auto-ranging
  • You can measure current up to 100A.
  • It can measure mA, which makes it perfect for electronics use.
  • Backlight display
  • A low pass filter is also integrated with the circuit for noise reduction.
  • NCV non-contact voltage detection is also available.
  • It comes with a sampling rate of 3 times/sec.
  • A hot wire test function is also available
  • The data hold option is also there for you.

Pros

  • Low battery indication
  • Lightweight
  • Cheaper
  • Compact and ergonomic design

Cons

  • You can not measure temperature without it.

Package includes

  • 1x UNIT UT210E Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of CAT-III standard test leads
  • 1x carrying pouch
  • 1x user manual
  • 1x thermocouple
  • 2x AAA batteries

Fluke 381CAL is the most advanced clamp meter on this list. The reason to give it the title of best clamp meter is its remote display and Iflex testing probes. You can measure the current of almost any industrial equipment with many other distinguishing features. Let's dive into its most promising functions.

Key Features

  • True-RMS clamp meter
  • An auto-ranging feature is also there to select ac/dc voltage ranges.
  • Inrush Current measurement is also available.
  • A hold button to see fluctuating values easily.
  • A low pass filter is also available to minimize noise.
  • You can also measure frequency up to 500Hz.
  • Iflex flexible current measuring probe
  • You can measure current up to 2500A.
  • The display is detachable and can be used at a maximum distance of 30 feet.
  • The remote display is magnetic and can be attached to any metal.
  • You can measure voltages up to1000V

Pros

  • It comes with a three-year warranty.
  • Backlight display is also available
  • Hands-Free usage
  • Wireless remote display.

Cons

  • A bit expensive

Package includes

  • 1x fluke 381CAL Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of CAT-II standard test leads
  • 1x iFlex current probe
  • 1x Certificate of calibration

It's useless to buy a high-ranking multimeter for general purpose use. If you're looking for a clamp meter for Home use, then an Ideal clamp meter is best for you. An ideal clamp meter can measure both ac and dc so that you can test your car battery easily. If you want to know more about car battery testers or need the best multimeters for automotive use, you will find all these in our guides section. Here are some main functions of the Ideal 61-744 clamp meter.

Key Features

  • You can measure current up to 600A.
  • It comes with (NCV) Non-contact voltage detection.
  • Low Battery indication alert
  • A separate hold button for fluctuating values.
  • You can measure ac/dc voltages up to 600V
  • CAT-III safety standards.
  • Its sampling speed is 2times/sec.
  • A bigger jaw size allows you to clamp bigger conductors.

Pros

  • Cheaper
  • Tough built
  • Auto shutdown in case of inactivity
  • Long-lasting batteries

Cons

  • Temperature measurement is not available.

Package includes

  • 1x ideal 61-744 Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of CAT-III standard test leads
  • 1x carrying pouch
  • 1x user manual
  • 2x AAA batteries

An electrician does not always need a clamp meter with higher ratings. However, because clamp meters with higher ratings can not precisely measure smaller values, this GTC CM100 is special for control systems and instrumentation.

Key Features

  • You can measure current only from 0.001A to 100A.
  • Both ac and dc voltages can be measured up to 600V.
  • A continuity test is also available.
  • Digital LCD with a backlight makes it a perfect choice for engineers.
  • Data hold function is also available.
  • It has a zero-mode to remove noises.

Pros

  • Built quality is great
  • Ergonomic and compact design
  • Buzzer sound is embedded with a continuity function.
  • Batteries are easy to replace.

Cons

  • The jaw size is too small for 100A.

Package includes

  • 1x GTC CM100 Clamp meter
  • 1x Pair of CAT-III standard test leads
  • 1x waterproof carrying pouch
  • 1x user manual
  • 2x AAA batteries
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Final verdict

If you're still with me, then you might have a clear idea that a good-quality clamp meter can measure more electrical values. This is the reason I always prefer the best clamp meter for electricians then multimeters. Here, I have thoroughly discussed clamp meter reviews and buying guides. The most prominent features of a good quality clamp meter are NCV, VFC, high current ranges, and temperature measurements. Personally, I am using Fluke 381CAL for electricians and UNIT 201E mini clamp meter for electronic circuits. Now grab the best clamp meter for yourself which suits you the most.

Good luck!