A multimeter is an all-in-one tool. From testing a cell to the overhauling of industrial equipment's you always need an electrical tester. The best multimeter for home use is the one that can measure all electrical values with accuracy. A multimeter is a very simple but yet versatile electrical tester that does not need any introduction. This tool has been extremely important in troubleshooting electrical devices and repairing electrical components.
Before going through the best multimeters, let us first have a look at what exactly a multimeter is.
What is the best Multimeter?
The best multimeter should be able to give you accurate results. It should be capable of testing both ac and dc electrical values accurately. Digital and analog multimeters both can provide accurate results but it depends upon your choice. An analog multimeter works the same way as a digital multimeter. But in an analog multimeter, you can assess electrical values only by a moving needle.
A good quality multimeter offers complete safety for the users who works on live electrical circuits. Also, it has features like the Automatic power-off feature which helps in saving battery consumption by turning itself off. It should be wearable, easy to use, and compact in size.
The best multimeter is the one that best suits your required needs. price is also an important factor. You can also check my guide about the best multimeters under $100 and the best multimeters under $50. The best way to test a meter is to see how much accuracy it provides when measuring different electrical values in both ac and dc circuits
AC Voltage: A multimeter should give an accuracy of +/- 1% when measuring AC voltage from 0 to 200 volts.
DC Voltage: A multimeter should give an accuracy of +/- 1% when measuring DC voltage from 0 to 1000 volts.
Resistance: It should give an accuracy of +/- 1% when measuring resistance in the range of 0 to 20000 ohms.
Continuity: A good-quality digital multimeter should give a beep sound when it detects continuity. The beep sound may be activated or deactivated depending upon your multimeter's battery health.I make the list of best budget multimeters.
How can you choose a multimeter for general purpose use?
Mainly there are two things one should consider before buying an all-in-one multimeter. Budget and Ranges to measure electrical values. If you're more concerned about budget, then you must see my list of the 10 best budget multimeters.
Now you must be thinking of a reasonable budget. Let me tell you one thing clearly for general purpose use; there are two technical approaches. In my opinion, it's a one-time investment so you should get the best one. You can grab a digital multimeter somewhere in between $100 and $200.
In addition to this mainly there are two ranges of electrical values Voltages and current. So a voltage range of 600 volts and an ac dc current range of 10 amperes is entirely satisfactory.
A complete buyer's guide for the best multimeter for home use
There are multiple factors one should consider before buying a multimeter. The factors depend upon your usage and ranges. Therefore, here are some key points that you must have a look at.
Accuracy
The accuracy of any multimeter depends upon multiple factors. All good quality digital multimeters have true RMS values. A true RMS function detects multiple values and gives you an average of all detected values. In addition to that, the noise cancellation feature also improves accuracy. Make sure that the multimeter you are buying has the best accuracy level. This will save your money and time by avoiding false readings. LoZ mode also helps in testing voltage. The best multimeter should be accurate to +/- 1% when measuring different parameters like AC voltage, DC Voltage, Resistance, etc.
Display
Display count is one of the most prominent features. Mostly it starts from 1999 to 8000 counts. Never buy a multimeter without a back-light display. Moreover, it helps you in working at darker places efficiently. There are also a few touch display multimeters, but their reliability is a bit questionable. Because the repairing or calibration is quite tricky as compared to traditional digital multimeters.
Ranges
In most cases, we don't care too much about selecting ranges. However, a wrong range setting can cause damage to your or your equipment. The best thing is an auto-ranging feature. You don't have to choose ranges. Just connect the test leads and start measuring. For beginners, it's not less than a magic feature. This feature is best for lazy people like me. You can buy an auto-ranging multimeter because it saves your time and energy.
If you're a beginner and a bit confused, then you must visit our list of best auto-ranging multimeters for beginners.
Battery life
A good quality digital multimeter should have long battery life. This will save you from the hassle of frequent battery replacements. The minimum battery time you should see in a multimeter is about 400 hours. An easy-to-access battery compartment also saves you a lot of trouble.
Low battery indicator
A digital multimeter should indicate a low battery by blinking its LCD or by providing some other form of notification like a beep sound.
Temperature measurement
This feature is available only in a digital multimeter. A standard digital multimeter comes with built-in temperature sensors. You just need to attach a K-type thermocouple (which comes with the package). Then, just connect the probes and get actual-time values easily.
Data hold
If you're looking for the best digital multimeter then the data hold function should also have great importance. This function is not available in analog multimeters. But in a digital multimeter, helps in storing accurate measurements.
Overloading Protection
Whenever the resistance of the circuit you are testing is too low (below 200 ohms), an internal fuse gets tripped in the best digital multimeter. This helps in protecting the meter from any kind of damage.
Safety
A multimeter for home use must be safe to use. It should have features like built-in ceramic fuses and Overload protection which helps in avoiding any type of accident.
Durability
The best multimeter for home use should be durable. It should be able to withstand falls, bumps, shocks, etc. For such purposes, my best multimeter brand offers silicon cases with their multimeter. A drop test certificate also comes with premium quality multimeters.
Price
Price is an important factor to consider when buying the best multimeter for home use. You can find digital multimeters at different price ranges. Choose the one that best suits your budget and requirements. Budget multimeters with good features with auto-ranging features are difficult to find. Luckily, I have made a list of the best budget multimeters.
Now that you know all the important factors, let's dive into the best multimeters for home use.
10 Best Digital Multimeters for home Use
1. Klein Tools MM6000 -Perfect for HVAC systems
Everybody needs an electric tester with maximum ranges. Klein Tools always comes with the best solutions. MM6000 is the latest and premium variant with a robust built. If you're a person who is very concerned about safety, then it can be part of your standard toolkit.
Special Features
Essentials in the Package
2. Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter
People who love to do DIY projects are always in need of the best general-purpose digital multimeter. Keeping in mind safety and quality standards, fluke never disappoints its customers. Although Fluke117 is not a new model, its quality makes this digital multimeter always in demand. If you're not satisfied yet then Fluke 87 v is a fluke multimeter with advanced features but it is relatively expensive.
Furthermore, fluke 87 v is not a perfect choice for DIY home use. Whereas Fluke 117 is a non-contact voltage tester specially designed for single-handed use and. So let's have a look at its measuring ranges.
Specifications
- True RMS Values
- 6000 Counts display
- Non-contact voltage testing
- AC DC Voltage measurement up to 600V
- AC DC current measurement up to 10A
- CAT-III 600v Safety standards
- mA &mV measurement
- LoZ function to avoid ghost voltages
- Works perfectly in between -10°C to +50°C
- Weight 1.2 pounds
Special Features
Essentials in the Package
3. Amprobe 37XR best DMM for routine use
Accuracy is the foremost important thing in measuring electrical values. To get the best results, Amprobe digital meter introduced its 37X-R model with optimum features. Its red color with a black rubber case gives it a sharp look. It has two options. Therefore, it depends upon you that whether you need average values or peak values, but one thing is sure accurate readings.
Specification
- 10,000 counts display
- CAT-II Standard 1000V
- CAT-III Standard 600V
- Frequency measurement up to 40MHz
- Capacitance up to 400µF
- Min/Max ranges
- Resistance up to 10Mohms
- Min/Max/Avg. Values
- Continuity test
- Non-contact Voltage Tester
- Temperature measurement
- Weight 28 Ounces
- 10A Input safety fuses
Special features
Essentials in the Package
4. Power Probe Pocket Multimeter for routine work
It would be best if you had a more prominent display and well-calibrated software to perform routine electrical testing. Luckily we have a Power Probe pocket multimeter. The pocket-friendly size of this automotive multimeter makes it easy to carry with you. It is one of those brands that offer mini multimeters with full features and ranges. If you're a professional electrician then this true RMS budget multimeter is not less than a gift to offer in such a compact size.
Specifications
- AC/DC auto Voltage selection
- Compliments True RMS values
- Voltage measuring up to 600V
- Current measuring up to 10A.
- Diode and Continuity test
- Auto-ranging digital multimeter
- Input fuses to avoid damage
- Tough Built
- Temperature measurement
- 5 feet long Probes
- Approx. weight 16 ounces
Special Features
Essentials in the Package
5. Klein Tools MM700 Best HVAC Digital Multimeter
From your bedroom to the office, everything has an HVAC system. Your HVAC system is working around 12VDC. But standard HVAC system works in between 450V TO 750V DC. Luckily this multimeter has all those measuring capabilities. Measuring temperature is a critical thing, and it should be well-calibrated. In MM700, Klein tools work especially on temperature and high voltage measurement.
Specifications
- CAT-III Standard (1000V) safety rating
- Both AC/DC
- Auto-ranging
- You can measure up to 1000V& 10A easily.
- -0°F to +1000°F
- Waterproofing of IP42
- Low impedance to ensure voltages
- Drop test passed from 2M
- Low battery Indication
- Bigger display with Backlight
- K-type thermocouple for temperature measurement.
Special Features
Essentials in the Package
6. UNI-T UT61E an all-in-one True RMS Digital Multimeter
Finding an electrical tester with all the latest features is not too much complicated. The real job is when you have a budget limit. If you're looking for the best multimeters with all potential features, then you must see UNIT 139C. Personally, I am using it for three years. Being an electronics engineer fulfills all requirements. From high voltage measurement to diode test, everything is possible with this digital multimeter.
Specifications
- AC/DC Measurements
- True RMS values
- Min/Max Ranges
- Auto-ranging digital multimeter
- Diode Test
- Continuity test
- Voltage Rating 1000V AC & DC
- Current rating 10A
- Temperature measurement
- Capacitance and resistance measurement
- Data hold option
- Separate button for Backlight
- Dual input safety fuses
- Approx weight 20 Ounces
Special Features
Essentials in the Package
Read more about: Best multimeter on Amazon
7. BSIDE Smart Wireless Multimeter –Best for home and commercial use
We're living in a world of IoT where everything is synched and connected to the internet. Therefore everybody was looking for the best multimeter with wireless connectivity. BSIDE is filling this gap comes with its latest ZT-300AB. You can directly connect this auto-ranging multimeter with your mobile with an android application. Moreover, Bluetooth connectivity is also available for data management.
Specifications
- Wireless connectivity
- Android application management
- True RMS Function
- Remotely check your appliances readings
- Data recording
- Graphical representation of data
- 6000 counts LCD
- Analog bar analysis
- Voltage measurement up to 1000V
- Current measurement up to 10A
- Frequency measurement
- Temperature measurement
- Capacitance and resistance measurement
- Weight is 13.6 Ounces
Special Features
Essentials in the Package
8. AstroAI MUS10KRD Multifunctional multimeter
This AstroAI model is a hybrid form of a classic digital multimeter. It's pretty advanced and compact in every aspect. The thing which makes AstroAI one step ahead is its display. When it comes to its look, AstroAI is just like a Smartphone. So, if you're looking for a portable and compact multimeter, then just grab this one.
Specifications
- Bigger LCD
- 10000 Counts display
- Built-in Duty cycle measurement
- Auto/Manual both modes available
- Data hold option
- Side button for flashlight
- Non-contact voltage (NCV) detection is available
- AC/DC Voltage measurement up to 600V
- Probes indication at the bottom
- Auto power off after inactivity
- Min/Max ranges available
- Low battery indication
- Can measure current up to 10A
- Weight 18 Ounces
Special Features
Essentials in the Package
Read more about: Best multimeter for Electronics repair
9. Proster Auto-ranging Multimeter for home use
If you're thinking of buying a good-quality multimeter at a lower price, Proster is the best option. You can check almost ten plus variables depending upon your settings. If you want the best multipurpose multimeter.
Specifications
- 10A AC/DC Current measurement
- 1000V Voltage measurement
- Non-contact voltage detection
- Bigger seven-segment LCD
- 6000 counts digital display
- mA and mV measurements
- NPN & PNP transistor check
- Diode check
- Continuity beep test
- Data holding option
- Backlight display
- Torch with a separate button
Special Features
Essentials in the Package
10. General Tools TS04 Smart Bluetooth Digital Multimeter
Most of the routine works involve voltage & current measurement. If you're working on a telephone line, then a continuity test is also an important thing. The general tool compiles ten different functions with 26 ranges in a very pocket-friendly budget.
Specifications
- 10 measuring functions.
- Non Contact Voltage Detection
- Temperature measurement
- Android App Screen cloning
- 10A ac/dc Current measurement
- Micro ampere measurment
- Continuity testing with beep sound
- CAT-III Standard 600V
- k-type thermocouple
- Alarm indication
- Overload protection
- Weight 9 Ounces
Special Features
Essentials in the Package
Read More about: Best multimeter for appliance repair
Conclusion
The electrical circuit board is everywhere. From the fridge to cell phone almost every electrical appliance has a circuit board. To troubleshoot their boards or other home appliances you need an advanced multimeter. Because a basic multimeter is just like an analog multimeter and can not measure high dc current or voltage. A multimeter kit for home use must be cheaper than an industrial multimeter kit. Moreover, if you have read the blog, then you can easily compare an industrial and Home use multimeter. I have sorted the multimeters as per their budget but if you still have some confusion the leave a comment for details.
If you're not satisfied with these digital multimeter reviews then you visit my blog of best multimeter under 100 dollars. I also have made an updated list of budget multimeters. So, if you have missed this one please check it out again and grab the best one for yourself.
Good Luck!
FAQs- Frequently Asked Questions
Do digital multimeters are more accurate than analog multimeters?
It is a popular belief that digital meters are the most accurate way to measure a voltage, therefore they should be used everywhere. However, the truth is that the accuracy of both types is very similar when they are limited to display 3 digits (after the decimal point). The real difference between the two types of meters is the speed with which they can respond to a change in voltage. Analog meters tend to be a bit more sluggish but do not require a warm-up period like digital meters.
Which multimeter is best for home use? Analog multimeter or a digital multimeter?
This is a question that does not have a definitive answer. Both analog and digital multimeters have their advantages and disadvantages. Ultimately, the best multimeter use will depend on the specific needs of the individual.
Analog multimeters are a good choice for those who need a reliable and basic instrument for occasional measurements. Analog meters do not require a warm-up period before use, so they are good for taking quick readings. They are also less expensive than digital multimeters. However, analog meters can be less accurate than digital meters when measuring smaller voltages. They also tend to be a bit more sluggish in responding to changes in voltage.
Digital multimeters are a good choice for those who need a more precise instrument that features a wide range of functions. They are specifically good for people who need to measure small voltages or more precise measurements, such as in electrical engineering.
What is the most commonly used multimeter kit?
The most commonly used multimeter kits are as follows:
- Cheapest multimeter Kit: ANBES Digital Multimeter with the Soldering station
- Mid-range multimeter kit: Klein Tools Multimeter Test Kit with all accessories
- Premium multimeter kit: Fluke 117/323 Multimeter and Clamp Meter Electricians Kit
If you want a singular multimeter that possesses all advanced functions then fluke 87 v digital multimeter is perfect for you. Click to buy!