Beginners and professionals both love to do DIY projects. But you can not start any electrical or electronics projects without proper tools. If we talk about electrical tools then, a digital multimeter will be at the top. That's why you need the best multimeter for DIY electronics projects.
Being an electronics engineer, I have completed dozens of electronics DIY projects with good-quality multimeters. But, unfortunately, you cannot use an ordinary multimeter because you have to measure higher and lower values simultaneously for DIY projects.
Do you need a True RMS multimeter for DIY electronics work?
To understand it, you must know the True RMS function and its role in accurate measurements. RMS value is the "root mean square" value. It is impossible to measure AC or voltages because its direction changes every time. So to calculate it, you must take the average of multiple values, and then by taking the square root of the resultant value, you will get the RMS value. Also read best multimeter for arduino project.
Similarly, true RMS value works on the same principle, but you will get only instantaneous values in it. This True RMS function is available only in good quality digital multimeters.
5 Best Multimeter for DIY Electronics Projects
1. Amprobe AM-570 Digital Multimeter for Electronics
If you're an electronics engineer or somebody who loves to work on electronics circuits, you must need an auto-ranging digital multimeter. Amprobe is one of those brands that works on both AC/DC electrical testers. However, for electronics work, you have to measure low-value measurements. Amprobe comes with an ultimate solution and names it Amprobe AM-570. It has all the testing capabilities required for electronics troubleshooting. Let's have a look at its primary functions.
4.6/5 stars with 339 reviews
Features
- It comes with a 6000 Counts bigger display.
- Voltage measurement up to 1000V in both ac and dc circuits.
- If you want to measure current up to 10A, then it is pretty straightforward. But if you're going to measure higher current, then you must use a clamp meter. You can also visit my list of best multi-tasking clamp meters.
- Frequency measurement is essential for AC circuits. You can measure frequency up to 60MHz with Amprobe AM-570.
- Moreover, it can measure resistance up to 60 Mega-Ohms.
- Non-contact voltage detection is also available in it so that you can easily trace live circuits without connection test leads.
- Diode and continuity tests make it easier for you to test open circuits and closed-loop systems.
- The best thing is that you can also measure temperature with it. The measurement ranges of temperature are -40 to +1800 degrees on the Fahrenheit scale. However, I have also made a separate list of the best multimeters for HVAC systems.
- It can also measure mA and mV, which makes it perfect for industrial use.
- It is equipped with a low battery indicator, which helps in low-lit areas.
Design
A silicon case covered this digital multimeter from every side making it the best multimeter for any electronics technician. The Amprobe AM-570 is designed in such a way that you can use it single-handedly. A magnetic hanger also comes with it, so you can hang it anywhere while working. Its silicon case is designed in such a way that you can tuck in your test leads. Therefore, if you're looking for an automotive multimeter with auto-ranging capabilities then AMPROBE-570 is the most reliable multimeter.
Pros & Cons
Package Includes
Amprobe AM-570 True RMS Digital Multimeter
Pair of Test leads
K type Thermocouples
Velcro straps
Multimeter carrying case
Already installed 9V Battery
Temperature Adapter
User guide manual
This digital multimeter is specifically for DIYers and electronics hobbyists who work on HVAC systems too. Amprobe AM-570 must be in your toolkit if you're looking for an all-in-one multimeter.
2. KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter Review for DIY Electronics
When choosing the best multimeter for yourself, budget is a significant concern. This Kaiweets professional multimeter is a cheap multimeter for electronics hobbyists. If you think that lower prices affect its quality, then you might be wrong. Because it possesses almost every function that any good multimeter should have. This is not the only thing that makes it the best multimeter for electronics projects. Let's have a deeper look,
4.7/5 stars with 10,103 reviews
Features
- The most impactful thing is its bigger 2.9 inches display with 6000 counts resolution.
- You can measure ac/dc voltages up to 1000V depending upon the standard of your test leads.
- All test leads input jacks are LED illuminated. Once you switch the function, the LEDs will glow accordingly.
- Talking about its current ranges, you can easily measure up to 10A.
- You can perform all diode and continuity tests with 99.9 percent accuracy.
- In electronic circuits, you have to check the resistance of various components. Luckily this multimeter can measure resistance up to 60 MegaOhms with only 1.5% error.
- Both frequency and capacitance measurement are also available in it up to 10MHz and 100 MF, respectively.
- This KAIWEETS digital multimeter is also equipped with an NCV function to detect voltages without opening circuits. If there are any voltages, You will be notified by alarm and LED lights.
- A Rare flashlight option makes it viable for night use and areas where light is dim.
- There are fluctuations in AC signals most of the time, but Kaiweets HT118A can easily measure the min/max and the average value of any signal.
- You can also measure temperature with it, but you have to attach a temperature probe that comes in the package for this purpose.
- Built-in ceramic fuses on the test lead input side make it perfect for beginners. However, I have also a buying guide about them separately if you are still looking for ideal multimeters for beginners.
- It's a drop test certified multimeter and also covered with a silicon case to enhance its safety.
Design
Pros & Cons
Package Includes
Kaiweets HT118A digital multimeter
Pair of test leads
user guide manual
Thermocouple for temperature sensing
AA battery
This Kaiweets multimeter is for those who want to carry a multimeter all day along with them. Of course, it may cause some errors, so I won't prefer it if you're using it on High voltages. But for electronics use, it's a perfect choice. However if you are Klein lover then Klein mm300 is also a good option for you.
3. UNI-T AC/DC Auto-Ranging MultimeterReview for Power Electronics
The Trend of DIY projects is increasing day by day. Electronics play an important role in making DIY projects exciting and valuable. From home automation to electrical repairing, electronics is involved in almost everything. This UNI-T AC/DC multimeter is a perfect choice for electronics hobbyists because of its accuracy and quality. I have also made a list of the best multimeters for home use. Let's come back to the UNI-T UT61-E multimeter. It's a true RMS digital multimeter, so you don't have to worry about accuracy.
4.5/5 stars with 190 reviews
Features
- It is an auto-ranging.
- True RMS function provides accurate measurements.
- The display is the foremost important thing of any multimeter; it has a 22000 counts larger display.
- You can easily connect it to your laptop with the RS232 connector.
- A yellow button just beside the dial allows you to set the ranges as per requirement manually.
- The auto-shutdown function enables just after 15 minutes of inactivity. This function helps the multimeter to optimize battery performance.
- You can measure both AC & DC voltage up to 1000V. But you have to be careful while choosing test leads.
- AC Current measurement (up to 10A) is also available, but make sure to insert the test leads in the correct slots.
- You can measure the capacitance, resistance, and duty cycle of all electronic cards easily.
- If the battery is low, the multimeter beeps after intervals to inform you about the low battery.
- A data hold option is also installed, making it easier for you to see values in confined places.
- It has an enhanced battery life of up t0 400 hours.
- There is a rear flip clip on the backside of the multimeter, allowing you to stand it on any table.
Design
You will not use your multimeter all the time. So, it should look good in your hand as well as on the test table. UNI-T will be my priority in the list of best multimeters for Diy electronics if I have to choose the multimeter for its look. Its silicon case is soft enough and gives it a firm grip.
Pros & Cons
Package Includes
1x UNI-T Digital multimeter
Pair of test leads
floppy disk containing user guide
RS232C serial port connector
carrying case
Electronics repair requires an auto-ranging feature because with manual ranging it's difficult to select the correct measurement range. This UNI-T multimeter is not only for professionals, but if you're a beginner, then it will suit you too. If you don't handle it with care, its calibration can be out easily. You can get the most accurate readings with this all in one multimeter. It's a cellphone-connected multimeter that falls in the category of a budget multimeter.
4. Fluke 87V A perfect fluke multimeter for Electronics use
There is no wrong in saying fluke as the Steve jobs of multimeters. Fluke multimeters are explicitly made for industrial and professional use. If you're looking for the most accurate multimeter then this fluke multimeter is for you. If you're a person who works occasionally, then it's better to buy a budget multimeter. You can visit my list of best multimeters under $100 or under $50. It is designed so efficiently that you can either use it for industrial purposes or commercial usage. Unlike other fluke multimeters, it has all basic electrical parameters for the electronics hobbyist. Although it's not a cheap multimeter, if you're looking for a highly precise fluke electronics multimeter then fluke 87V is a perfect choice. Let's jump into its key features
4.9/5 stars with 857 reviews
Features
- It is a true RMS multimeter.
- Large LCD backlit screen
- It also has a data logging function.
- The dual display is switchable and can vary from 6000 counts to 20000 counts resolution.
- It is also equipped with a built-in thermometer to measure temperature -200°C to 1090°C easily.
- You can measure both ac and dc voltages up to 1000V and current up to 10A.
- Resistance is also essential to check many electronic sensors. You check resistance up to 50MΩ.
- You can measure capacitance of ac and dc capacitors up to 10000μF.
- DCS systems, variable frequency drives, and many home appliances work on mV and mA. You can also check both of them easily with this fluke 87V multimeter.
- You can measure frequency and duty cycle for accurate measurement
- There are two intensity levels for backlight display: low and high.
- It has avg/min/max ranges available so that you can get a more precise value than any other multimeter.
- Last but not least, you can attach a detachable clamp to measure higher current values.
Design
The design of any electrical tester can make it worthwhile or scrap. This fluke 87V multimeter is designed in such a way that you use it all alone. Its display is quite big, which helps you to see values even if your eyesight is weak. Most importantly, it's simple to use and covered with a silicon case. You can not use it in rainy weather, but it can work in areas with high humidity.
Pros & Cons
Package Includes
Fluke 87V digital multimeter
Pair of TL75 test leads
Pair of AC72 alligator clips
Hostler
9V battery (already installed)
User guide manual
80BK temperature probe
Most people think that Electronics DIY projects are only for home use. However, being an electronics engineer, I have to do many DIY projects depending upon industry requirements. So, if you're also associated with any industrial electronic field, it could be a perfect pick. Although the price is a bit more, the multimeter justifies it.
5. Klein Tools MM600 Digital Multimeter Review for Electronics Technicians
Electronics projects are of two types: millivolts and high voltages are involved in the second type. So you can easily conclude which multimeter suits you as per your type. But in both types, Klein Tools MM600 is worthy of being on the list of the 5 best multimeter for electronics. Let's have a closer look.
4.7/5 stars with 666 reviews
Features
- It is an auto-ranging digital multimeter.
- True RMS function is also available in it.
- The LCD has a resolution of 4000 counts with a backlit display.
- You can measure both ac voltage and dc voltage up to 1000V.
- The current measuring capacity of Klein MM600 is 10A for both ac and dc circuits.
- LoZ function is also available, which makes sure to remove ghost voltages and gives more accurate results.
- You can also measure temperature, but you have to attach a separate thermocouple for it.
- The resistance can also be measured up to 40MΩ.
- You can perform both continuity and diode test for loop testing and circuit designing.
- A separate data hold button is also installed below the display to see value clearly.
Design
It is designed in a very robust way, due to which it can bear a drop test of 2meter. If you want to know about its water resistance, then it is IP 42. Klein tools dial has engraved indicators that help you in determining the status of the multimeter. It is so compact and lightweight that you can put it into your pocket. If you're looking for the best pocket multimeter for electronics, then you should consider this Klein tools mm600.
Pros & Cons
Package Includes
Klein MM600 DMM.
Pair of test leads
Thermocouple for temperature measurement
AA batteries already installed
If you're looking for an affordable multimeter for routine use, then it is the best of all. But if you want to use it for industrial use, then think twice before buying; instead, you can use fluke digital multimeter 87V for such purposes. There are only a few fluke multimeters that offer voltage measurements up to 1000V and Fluke 87V is one of them. Although it's an affordable multimeter, you can not use it for high ac voltage measurements.
Buying guide for the best multimeter for electronics
What do you plan to use the multimeter for? If you need it for general household repairs and projects, then any basic model should be fine. However, if you need it for more specific purposes, such as digital electronics work, automotive electrical systems, digital forensics, aircraft engineering, or other specific purposes, then you should consider getting one that's best suited to digital work.
Digital multimeters (DMMs) are designed specifically for digital measurements. The analog multimeter is the most common type of electrical tester used by do-it-yourselfers and or digital circuit testing, then you will need a more accurate and specific model.
Display
The display on a DMM is important, as you will need to be able to read the measurements accurately. Many DMMs have backlit LCD displays, which are necessary for working in dimly lit or dark locations. Any multimeter with a display count below 2000 is not suitable for electronics use. Always grab a multimeter with a backlit display. This will come in handy when you're working in low-light areas or trying to read the display from an angle.
Auto-ranging
The auto-ranging feature is also important. This will allow you to automatically choose the readings that are best suited for your needs with the simple press of a button. Whereas manual ranging multimeters are also not bad but in manual ranging, you have to be extra careful. Autoranging digital multimeter eliminates the need to manually change the range of settings, which can be time-consuming. The testing voltage on different voltage ranges is a hustle and can cause accidents in case of a little negligence. So it is better to grab an auto-ranging digital multimeter.
Precision
Even if you just need it for general household repairs and projects, you might want to consider an adjustable digital multimeter with accurate measurements. These have the capability to adjust from standard through to high precision depending on what you need. The digital multimeter accuracy should be between +/- 0.5% and +/- 2%, depending on the range of voltage being measured. If you are getting a digital multimeter for digital circuits, it is recommended to go with those that have an accuracy of 1%. To get an accurate measurement you can choose a True RMS multimeter.
Ease of use
You don't want to get a digital multimeter that's too complicated to use, especially if you're not familiar with electronics. Look for models with clear displays and easy-to-use buttons.
Safety features
Make sure the digital multimeter you choose comes with features such as over-voltage protection and current limiting, to help keep you safe while working. All good quality digital multimeters have ceramic fuses of 1A and 10A at the input side of probes. An electronics hobbyist has to measure ac and dc voltage at the same time so a digital multimeter for electronics must be handled with care. Almost all digital multimeters for electronics repair have silicon cases which makes them perfectly insulated.
Milliamps and millivolts
Digital multimeters can measure either milliamp (mA) or millivolts (mV). The multimeter you're looking for must have an mA function. Because it will help you in troubleshooting mobile and laptop issues. If you need it to measure voltage, then make sure the digital multimeter has at least one of the three ranges 1mV.
Test leads
Digital multimeter test leads are much thinner than traditional ones. Thin-gauge copper wire is used. Digital multimeters generally come with test leads that are red and black. Normally CAT-III and CAT-IV test lead both are suitable for electronics-related jobs.
Battery life
Long battery life is also a plus in the best digital multimeter. Especially if you're working on a project and can't stop to change the batteries, then the best digital multimeter for electronics must have a battery timing above 400 hours.
Budget
You don't have to spend a lot of money to get the best multimeter for electronics. However, there are some features that you might want to consider if you're looking for a budget multimeter. Look for a digital multimeter that has a wide range of voltage and current, as well as precision calibration.
Conclusion
If you're still with me, then now you might have a clear idea about the best multimeter for electronics projects. All digital multimeters are not for general use. In electronics, most of the work is on millivolts and milliamps. So, always check minimum ranges before choosing any DMM. If you're an electrician then, I have also made lists of the best multimeters for electricians. Therefore, get the best multimeter for yourself and let us know about your experience. If you're interested in grabbing the best fluke multimeter then I have made a list of the best fluke multimeters for you. Whether you have to measure ac voltage or alternating current best digital multimeter should do it perfectly.
Good Luck!
FAQs
How to measure DC voltage with a multimeter?
Digital multimeters are not much different from other multimeters. All you have to do is connect red probe with phase or positive terminal and black lead to negative terminal and you can easily check DC voltage with multimeter.
Why electronics Technicians Need a Multimeter?
Multimeters are among the most important tools that electricians and other electronics technicians use on a daily basis. They allow professionals to quickly and easily take measurements of voltage, current, and resistance in various electrical circuits. While there are many different types and brands of multimeters on the market, Fluke multimeters are widely considered to be some of the best multimeters.
Can digital multimeters measure non-linear loads?
Yes, all digital multimeters for electronics repair can measure non-linear loads. They have an option of low input impedance. This mode helps in eliminating ghost voltages which are normally found in many electronic tools.