Fluke 289 vs 287 Multimeter Comparison & Reviews

When it comes to choosing a multimeter, there are many factors to consider. But one of the most important is whether you want a digital or analog model. If you're looking for the best of both worlds, the Fluke 289 and 287 multimeters offer a great compromise. Both models are packed with features that make them ideal for a wide range of applications, but they also come with a few key differences. To help you make your decision, I've put together a side-by-side comparison of the Fluke 289 vs 287.

Here I'll cover everything from design and build quality to performance and accuracy. So before doing a side-by-side comparison let's have a look at their features.

Is a Fluke multimeter worth the money?

Fluke multimeters are some of the most popular and trusted multimeters on the market, known for their accuracy, durability, and features. They're also one of the more expensive brands, so you might be wondering if a Fluke multimeter is worth the investment.

Generally speaking, we think that Fluke multimeters are definitely worth the money. They're an excellent choice for both professionals and hobbyists and will last you for many years to come. With that said, there are also some cheaper alternatives that might be a better fit for your needs and budget.

Fluke 287 Multimeter Review

The Fluke 287 is a True-RMS logging multimeter with a large backlit screen. It has a similar design to the 289 models but has a bit different features. This model is best suited for electricians, HVAC technicians, and other professionals who need to measure voltage, current, and resistance on a regular basis.

The Fluke 287 has a large backlit screen that makes it easy to read in low-light conditions. This multimeter is powered by six AA batteries and has a battery life of around 400+ hours. These 6x AA batteries came along with the product.

Features

  • It comes with a 50000 counts VGA dot matrix display.
  • As it is a True RMS multimeter so you can use it to measure AC current and voltage with high accuracy.
  • The Data logging mode allows you to take up to 10,000 readings on a single channel with a trend recording facility.
  • It has a USB interface that lets you connect it to your computer for easy data transfer and analysis.
  • You can measure current from microamps to 10A with high precision. If you want to measure high current then just connect your a3001 FC Module- iflex.
  • Voltage measuring ranges are up to 1000V in both AC and DC. So you can measure both linear and non-linear loads easily.
  • Capacitance can be measured up to 50,000 µF.
  • It is capable of measuring resistance up to 500 MΩ. So you can check any coil or thermocouple reading. If you want to know how to test a motor with a multimeter then click here.
  • HVAC technicians can measure temperature up to 1350 °C, which is a very high range for a digital multimeter.
  • It comes with a very handy option called Min/Max/Average that lets you see the variation in your reading over time.
  • It has a built-in help menu that provides step-by-step instructions on how to use all the features.

Fluke 289 Multimeter Review

If you look at fluke 289 and 287 on a table side by side you will see no difference. But it also comes with some additional features that make it more suitable for professionals who need to take measurements on a regular basis. The major advantage of this fluke meter is its advanced features like selectable ac filter, duty cycle, and auto range options.

The Fluke 289 comes with a very advanced function for sharing live results with your team or clients. All you have to do is to connect the ir3000 FC wireless connector with your multimeter and download the Fluke Connect App.

If you're not well aware of its functions then no worries just click the "i" button for help. This industrial tech master only needs x6 AA batteries, which are already available in the package. So, let's have a look at its key features.

Features:

  • Fluke 289 Comes with a 1/4 VGA dot matrix 50,000 counts display with a white backlight so that you can work even in low-light conditions.
  • It is a True RMS multimeter so that you can measure AC/DC current and voltage with high accuracy.
  • The Data logging mode lets you take up to 15,000 readings on a single channel with a trend recording facility.
  • You can also view the graphical representation of these recorded signals on its huge display.
  • Low impedance voltage (NCV mode) eliminated stary voltages and improve its accuracy.
  • A low pass filter is also there to give you the best results without any harmonics.
  • Voltages can be measured up to 1000V in both AC/DC circuits.
  • Current can be measured up to 10A but you can connect the Fluke iFlex connector for high current measurements.
  • It is capable of measuring current into microamps.
  • Resistance can be measured up to 500 MΩ.
  • Capacitance can be measured up to 100 mF.
  • It has a function of FlukeView forms which allows you to directly import data into professional documents for meetings.
  • You can measure temperature up to 1350°C with its built-in K-type thermocouple sensor.
  • Min/Max/Average function lets you see the variation in your reading over time.

Similarities and Differences (Fluke 287 vs 289)

Similarities ( Fluke 289 VS 287 )

Both of the multimeters share a lot of common things as mentioned below

Display:

Both Fluke 287 and 289 have a 1/4 VGA dot matrix 50,000 counts display with a white backlight. The best thing is the data logging mode with graphical representation.

Trendcapture data with log data:

As both fluke multimeters have a logging function with a real-time clock. So you can capture trends and accurate readings.

Design and Aesthetics:

Both multimeters have the same design and look. They are packaged in a rugged case with an impact-resistant holster.

Measuring Ranges:

Whether you have to measure voltages, current, resistance, or capacitance both multimeters have the same measuring ranges. Whether you have to measure dc voltage or ac voltage, the ranges are almost identical.

Fluke Connectivity:

If you want to share your readings with others then you would be glad to know that both support Fluke Connectivity. You can also connect other fluke accessories like iflex modules for high current measurements. In short, both fluke 289 and 287 share the same specs in terms of connectivity.

Differences ( Fluke 289 VS 287 )

If you're still with me then you may be confused that both of the multimeters are the same so where do they differ. So, here I mentioned some of the major differences that will justify your curiosity.

Low input Impedance mode:

Fluke 289 comes with a low impedance voltage mode (LoZ). This function helps to eliminate ghost voltages and gives you more accurate results. Most of the time our electrical measurements are disturbed by these voltages which are known as ghost voltages. But with this function, you can eliminate them and take more precise readings.

Low Pass Filter:

A low pass filter is only available in fluke 289. For industrial and commercial applications where inductive loads like motors and solenoids are used, this low pass filter is very helpful. It filters out the high-frequency noise and gives you precise readings.

Accuracy:

If you have read the above blog carefully then you might have a clear idea that fluke 289 is very much more accurate than fluke 287 due to LPF and LoZ mode. Because in Fluke 289 there are no harmonics or noises so the results will be highly precise.

Lo Ohms Mode:

This function is only available in Fluke 289 so you can measure resistance below 50 ohms. This extremely low resistance is used to measure in applications like fuel injectors, electronic motor controls, and electronics cards.

Conclusion: Who is the winner in Fluke 287 Vs 289?

Due to the different performance capabilities of these two logging multimeter models, it's quite difficult to choose one. After discussing all the major similarities and differences now it's time to decide who is the winner. So, in my opinion, Fluke 289 is a clear winner as it is more precise and has some unique features like LoZ mode and Low pass filter which are not available in fluke 287.

But it's obvious that 289 is an advanced version of fluke 287. So this guide is not more about fluke 287 vs 289 comparisons but about which one fit your needs. If you're on a budget and looking for a fluke 270 series meter then Fluke 287 is the best option for day-to-day use. However for research work where high precision is required Fluke 289 suits you the most. If you want a bit cheaper fluke meter then fluke 87 and 87V max can also fulfill your requirements. Let's have a quick look on them.

Hopefully, this guide helped you to understand the major similarities and differences between Fluke 287 and 289. So, grab the one that suits you the most and lets us know about your experience.