When it comes to buying multimeters, you need to learn everything you can about them. Often, the best products out there aren’t always the most expensive. We strive to get the best value for our money, but it’s even better if we got it for less? If you’re looking for a multimeter, here is some good news for you. We’ve compiled a list of the best cheap multimeters under $50 / $100 along with a buying guide to help you decide. Multimeters are very handy tools for measuring electrical properties like resistance, voltage, and current.
When buying this tool, never sacrifice quality. Remember the risks the device may pose to your health and the task at hand. A multimeter has must have accuracy, durability, and shouldn’t cost more than it should. Whether you are a DIY guy or a professional electrician, the multimeter should be one of your staple toolbox items. Read on to learn more!
Contents
- Features to Consider in Good Multimeters
- Best Cheap Multimeters 2024 (Under $50 / $100)
- 1. INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
- 2. Etekcity Auto Ranging Clamp Meter, Digital Multimeter
- 3. AstroAI Digital Multimeter
- 4. Tacklife DM01M Digital Multimeter
- 5. Craftsman 34-82141 Digital Multimeter
- 6. Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter
- 7. Klein Tools MM400 Digital Auto-Ranging Multimeter
- 8. Mastech MS8268 Multimeter
- 9. Extech EX330 Autoranging Mini Multimeter
- 10. Amprobe PK-110 Electrical Test Kit with Voltage Probe
Features to Consider in Good Multimeters
If you were to buy a multimeter, what should you look for? There are so many options in the market today that choosing just one can seem overwhelming. But you need to consider a lot of things before making a purchase.
When buying online, you won’t have the chance to test the device’s full capacity until after you receive the item. This is one good reason why you should research about the product you’re interested in before you buy it.
Multimeters come in many variations, there are even features specific to one model or brand only.
Generally, though, all multimeters share basic functions. Here are the basic features to consider when choosing the multimeter to purchase:
Manual or Automatic
This is very important, especially for beginners, as the device detects the range it’s under. Auto-ranging refers to the gathering of the most significant number values. A multimeter with an auto-ranging feature should automatically provide the range for you. There’s no need for you to input data.
As for the manual models, they already have preset ranges. Whichever you choose, both types have the capacity to determine the range.
Digital or Analog
The analog multimeters are the dated designs, the ones used by older, seasoned professionals. These are still preferred by many professionals because of their reliability and ease of use. Multimeters have a sensitivity that catches the electrical values running in a circuit continuously.
The digital multimeters can record and display measurements automatically in an electrical circuit in digital form. These are more convenient to read, especially for those who haven’t undergone special training. It’s up to you to choose which one best suits your needs.
Accuracy
Most kinds of multimeters have high accuracy, although there’s still a debate on whether a digital or an analog type can provide the most accurate readings required. Also, these devices need some calibration after you haven’t used them for a long time.
This keeps a level of accuracy on the information it provides. Skipping this process isn’t a good idea as it can affect the device’s accuracy. Keep this in mind when you buy a new multimeter. It may be new but its accuracy might get affected because it stayed on the shelf of the store for too long.
Construction
If you constantly use a multimeter, purchase one that’s solidly built, preferably with a casing made of metal to ensure that it won’t break easily. Some of the newer models even have rubber exteriors to cushion the device in case it falls. Always take extra safety precautions when using the device.
Remember, there is always a potential danger when dealing with electricity so chose a multimeter that has basic safety features. They may cost you more, but it will be worth it. Whether you are a professional or a DIYer, never skimp on what is both useful and safe for you.
Durability
This means buying a multimeter made of durable materials that could withstand the test of time and frequent usage. As a buyer, you want only the best value for your money – a device that will stay fully usable for the many years to come.
Best Cheap Multimeters 2024 (Under $50 / $100)
1. INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
It features a big digital display with color-coded LEDs for faster battery checks. The resistance function has a single-setting for DC and AC voltage. It also includes protective corner guards made of rubber to ensure protection even when you accidentally drop the device.
Editor’s Rating:
User-friendly
This auto-ranging multimeter is user-friendly and versatile too. Its design allows you to deal with a wide range of electrical problems with safety and accuracy. It has an input of 10MegOhm that’s safe for household and automotive uses. This means that you can use it for automotive circuits, household outlets, wiring, fuses, and more.
The INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter comes with color-coded LEDs, allowing for quick checks – red means replace, yellow means weak, and green means good. This device also includes test leads, a stand, and holders, allowing for hands-free utilization. Also, the auto-ranging feature of this device allows you to measure electricity without having to dial in the specific voltage.
Sturdy
This is one of the best cheap multimeters under $50 / $100 because of how functional and sturdy it is. The INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter provides accurate readings on a clear LCD display and sturdy construction.
The device has protective guards for all of its corners to provide protection even if you drop it by accident. This device runs on double-A batteries and a convenient auto-off feature that helps conserve energy.
Value for money
This is a compact and convenient device that serves as an excellent addition to any toolbox or garage set. Despite its durability and functionality, it still offers great value for your money. If you only need to use the multimeter occasionally and you’re looking for an affordable option, the Innova 3320 is one of the best.
- The auto-ranging scales allow you to make measures electronically without dialing in the proper range.
- The device has a huge digital display along with color-coded LEDs, making it easier for you to see the required information.
- Has a unique resistance function with a single setting for DC and AC voltage.
- Includes corner guards made of rubber to protect the device even if you drop it.
- It might not work as consistently after changing the batteries.
2. Etekcity Auto Ranging Clamp Meter, Digital Multimeter
The Etekcity Auto Ranging Clamp Meter, Digital Multimeter comes with a convenient carrying pouch so you can bring it with you wherever you go and store it easily too. After 15 minutes of no use, it goes into sleep mode automatically to conserve energy. It even comes with a 2-year warranty and lifetime support from the brand manufacturer.
Editor’s Rating:
User-friendly
The Etekcity Auto Ranging Clamp Meter, Digital Multimeter combines user-friendly features with innovation. These make it the perfect device for a wide range of electrical projects. With this multimeter, you can easily test resistance, continuity, diode, and DC or AC voltage. It also has a convenient clamp, allowing for safety measurements of AC currents.
With this device, you don’t have to break circuits or strip cords to perform measurements. It also has max value and hold result buttons, making it easier and faster to use. The auto-ranging feature allows you to obtain accurate measurements each time.
Safe
Using this device ensures that electricity maintenance is both easy and safe. With all of the features, you can use the multimeter to take measurements without direct contact which can be extremely dangerous. The device comes with a clip, allowing you to extend wires and rest cord up to 28-mm. Its test probes come insulated for safe handling while you take measurements.
Convenient features
The great thing about the Etekcity is that it offers several convenient features. For one, the clamp allows you to measure AC currents safely without stripping any wires. The voltage test allows you to get quick and accurate results for both DC and AC voltage. This is a multifunctional device that includes select, max, and hold buttons.
It offers auto-ranging assistance, making it easier to use. The continuity and diode testing functions ensure that all of your electrical connections are completely safe and correct. The device even comes with an auto-off feature to maximize usage by saving battery life. Its large LCD display allows for easier readability and clear measurements.
- The large LCD display allows for easy readability.
- Includes a convenient carrying pouch for storage and portability.
- Conserves energy by entering sleep mode automatically after 15 minutes of no activity.
- Comes with a 2-year warranty and lifetime support from the manufacturer.
- Some issues with the clamp functionality.
3. AstroAI Digital Multimeter
This device has convenient features like a large LCD screen with a backlight, data hold, a hanging magnet, automatic shut-off, and a kickstand. All of these features make it easier to take and record measurements using the device. You can even use it for commercial purposes as it won’t buckle under the demands of long workdays.
Editor’s Rating:
Safe
The design of this multimeter allows professionals to use it accurately and safely – whether you’re a DIYer or a professional working in a commercial or industrial environment. This device provides more power than standard models. Despite all of its advanced features which allow it to measure virtually anything, it’s completely safe to use.
Versatile
The AstroAI Digital Multimeter is one of the best models available because of its superior versatility. First of all, you can use it for troubleshooting electrical issues. It’s a professionally-designed device that can also be of help for electronics training. You may use this device for continuity testing by connecting the leads to the circuit you want to test.
This multimeter comes with double protection, making it more reliable and secure. It has built-in fuse tubes that are explosion-proof and made of ceramic material. These fuses effectively protect the device on various ranges. It even has a multifunctional socket for measuring transistors and capacitors. With this device, you can measure temperature and read the result on the large LCD display.
User-friendly
One of the best features of this multimeter is its user-friendliness. Aside from having superior performance, its ease of use ensures that the work you do is as precise and as comprehensive as possible. No matter what you’re measuring or testing, this device delivers.
Some of the best user-friendly features of this device are its large screen with a backlight, auto power-off feature, and data hold. All of these features make the device simple to navigate, allowing you to focus more on the task at hand.
- It’s very easy to use and it comes with several convenient features to make your job easier.
- Suitable for commercial purposes thanks to its heavy-duty construction and capabilities.
- Includes built-in F10A/600V and F400mA/600V ceramic fuse tubes that are explosion-proof.
- Comes with a 3-year warranty.
- The tips of the leads are quite short.
4. Tacklife DM01M Digital Multimeter
You can use this device for electrical household and automotive tasks. It has a large LCD display with a backlight, allowing for better visibility and readability of results. You can even use it in areas with dim lighting. This device also comes with a support stand for hands-free utilization.
Editor’s Rating:
Design
The Tacklife DM01M Digital Multimeter is a digital multimeter with an advanced design that enables you to accurately and safely address household and automotive electrical problems. Use it as a general tool for measurement for cables, fuses, automotive batteries, household sockets, charging systems, automotive circuits, universal batteries, and so on.
Safe
This device offers overload protection to ensure safety during operation. Other safety features include the Thermistor protection circuit and ceramic fuse to give you the highest level of security while you work. This device has a good design and even an auto shut-off feature, allowing the device to power down after 15 minutes of no usage.
The sampling speed of this device is 2 to 3 times per second, allowing you to troubleshoot various household and automotive issues accurately, quickly, and safely. The device comes equipped with a flash LCD and continuity buzzer to ensure that all of your electrical components work properly.
Multifunctional
The versatility of this device gives you great value at an affordable price. For current testing, simply connect the test leads for current detection. You can use this for testing DC or AC voltage so you know if you need to charge your batteries. For continuity testing, the multimeter’s buzzer will sound off to indicate that it’s still intact.
This device allows for no-contact voltage testing to ensure your safety. You don’t have to set the range of the test manually for the device to work. You can even connect the leads to a socket to test for live lines. It’s an advanced multimeter with several uses to optimize your experience whether you’re a beginner or a professional.
- It’s an excellent measuring tool for solving the safety issues of electrical, automotive, and household devices.
- If the device detects AC voltage, the LED lights shine according to the density of the signal.
- Provides you with the highest security and measure safety while you work.
- Comes with a user manual and a 2-year warranty.
- The connection of the leads isn’t tight enough.
5. Craftsman 34-82141 Digital Multimeter
The Craftsman 34-82141 Digital Multimeter gives off a sound below 30 ohms that’s barely audible for checking proper shorts and wiring. You can also use this device for resistance testing up to 2megaohm for automotive and household repair and testing of electrical wiring. It’s also useful for diode testing for electrical and electronic tests.
Editor’s Rating:
Multifunctional
This device is one of the best cheap multimeters under $50 / $100 as it offers a number of basic functions along with manual ranging and several audible signals which serve as indications for notifications and warnings. This device runs on a 9V battery which lasts for more than a year as long as you maintain the device’s good condition.
The Craftsman 34-82141 Digital Multimeter is an excellent tool for quick measurements. It has a compact design, allowing you to bring it with you wherever you go. Despite all of its great features, it comes at an affordable price to ensure that you get great value for the money you spend on it.
Handy
This device is so small that you can place it inside your pocket. Even when you place it inside your toolbox, it won’t take up a lot of space. Apart from its handy size, it also has an auto shut-off feature. This is important for conserving energy when the device isn’t in use.
Easy to use
This feature is one that a lot of users appreciate. Since the device is easy to use, you can start using it as soon as you turn it on. You don’t have to spend a lot of time reading the manual even if you’re a first-time multimeter user. It even comes with a rubber holster to protect the device from accidental bumps, hits, and drops.
The Craftsman comes with a tilt stand at the back, allowing you to position the device vertically when you need to. The stand is both sturdy and stable so it won’t slide around when placed on a smooth surface. It even offers various ranges to ensure accuracy each time you use it.
- Suitable for home appliance repairs and electronic installation as it measures up to 10A alternating current and 600V alternating current.
- Suitable for electronic and auto marine repairs or installations as it measures up to 10A direct current and 600V direct current.
- Gives off an audible tone for you to check proper shorts and wiring.
- Diode test suitable for electrical and electronic testing.
- Some claim that not all of the functions work well.
6. Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter
You can use the device for continuity and diode tests. For these tests, the device gives off a buzzing sound that serves as an indication. Another great feature of this device is its compact and lightweight build. It’s easy to replace the battery and it also has an auto shut-off feature.
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Design
The design of this multimeter allows you to use it for basic electrical troubleshooting and resting. It offers accurate and reliable measurements, making it suitable for commercial and residential electricians, air conditioning and heating technicians, other professionals, and even homeowners. This is a compact, lightweight device that fits into your hand comfortably.
The Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter also comes with a rugged design to ensure that it withstands daily utilization for years to come. If you’re looking for a professional-grade multimeter, this device is one of your best options.
Easy to use
This multimeter comes from one of the most well-known and trusted brands in the multimeter world. This is one of the main reasons why this model made it on our list. Apart from the superb features, this device is user-friendly too. It has a superb safety rating, it offers superior accuracy, it’s easy to maintain, and changing the batteries is a breeze too.
Value for money
Fluke is a reputable brand that produces high-quality devices – and the Fluke 101 is no exception. You can use this model for various testing purposes from air conditioning, heating, electrical devices, and more. It has built-in microamps and a thermometer, allowing you to use it for HVAC applications.
Even with all of these features, the device comes at a reasonable price. This means that you’re getting great value for your money. Even though this model doesn’t include a high selection for amperage, most types of HVAC applications don’t require this high selection anyway.
- Safety-rated as CAT III 600 V with a basic accuracy of 0.5%.
- It’s a rugged and durable device that allows you to perform continuity and diode tests.
- Has a compact, lightweight design, allowing you to use it with one hand.
- Battery is very easy to replace and it also comes with an automatic shutdown feature.
- The contacts might break off after some time.
7. Klein Tools MM400 Digital Auto-Ranging Multimeter
All of the features of this model make this one of the best cheap multimeters under $50 / $100 in the market now. It’s durable enough
Editor’s Rating:
Versatile
You can use this auto-ranging multimeter for measuring different values like resistance, AC or DC voltage, and AC or DC current. You can also use the Klein Tools MM400 Digital Auto-Ranging Multimeter to measure frequency, temperature, duty-cycle, capacitance, and more. This device comes from a reputable brand in the industry that’s well-known for manufacturing high-quality products.
This multimeter is part of a product line that the brand had exclusively designed from scratch by electricians for electricians. It is a professional-grade, premium tool that delivers the precision, performance, and durability you need for different tasks. It even comes at a very reasonable price.
Superior features
The multimeter comes with a sturdy design that sets it apart from the competition. It’s durable enough to withstand bumps, daily wear and tear, and even a 1-meter drop. The device’s battery compartment is easily accessible, allowing you to change batteries without difficulty. It also has an indicator for when the battery gets low.
Another feature of this device worth mentioning is its ability to measure temperature. This is a standard feature of high-end models, making it a pleasant addition to this affordable multimeter. The device includes a thermocouple that you have to connect to the unit, set the mode, and start using it.
Safe
The versatility of this multimeter ensures that you can use it for a wide range of applications around your home or workplace. Another notable feature of this device is its safety. It has a high safety rating to give you the assurance that you won’t be in danger while using it.
- Durable enough to withstand daily usage and even a 1-m drop.
- Easy-to-access battery compartment and convenient indicator for low battery.
- Suitable for controlled and basic electromagnetic environments and locations.
- Includes batteries, test leads, thermocouple, and adapter.
- Accuracy may diminish after extensive use.
8. Mastech MS8268 Multimeter
This device allows for manual and auto-ranging with relative measurement for all possible ranges except frequency. It also has an auto shut-off feature that you can disable as needed. It’s easy to read measurements from the LCD display with a blue-colored backlight. You can feel confident with this product because it even comes with a 1-year warranty.
Editor’s Rating:
Easy to use
This model is newly-released as a digital multimeter that you can use for an auto and manual ranging. It comes with a number of useful features like the light and sound warning for incorrect jacks and the LCD screen with a backlight. This device runs on AAA batteries and it includes a user manual and test leads.
Versatile
The Mastech MS8268 Multimeter is one of the best devices for your money because you can use it for different applications. It’s one of the latest products released by Mastech, one of the most trusted brands in the multimeter world. Even with all of its features, it still comes at a very reasonable price.
This device is also a multi-tester. It has an auto shut-off feature to conserve energy when not in use. You can clearly see the results of various tests like AC or DC voltage, diode checks, and more on its LCD display screen.
Easy to use
This device has a compact design, although it’s not as lightweight as other models. Some people may wonder why the lead sockets light up, but this only happens when you don’t plug the leads correctly or you use the wrong jacks. This is a very convenient feature, especially for beginners.
This device comes with holders for the test leads that are securely molded into the back. These holders have slots that accept the flared part of leads, allowing you to store the leads on the device without getting them tangled up. The auto-range feature of this device simplifies its operation, making it suitable for newbies and professionals alike.
- Gives off a sound/LED warning when you use incorrect banana jacks for the switch setting.
- Allows for manual and auto-ranging with relative measurement.
- Comes with an LCD display with a blue LED backlight and an auto power-off feature that you can disable.
- Comes with a 1-year warranty.
- Some say the device’s lifespan is too short.
9. Extech EX330 Autoranging Mini Multimeter
Apart from having high functionality, this device also ensures your safety as it comes UL-listed with a CAT III 600V safety rating. It also includes a holster made of rubber to keep the device protected. The device comes with a Type K probe for measuring temperature too.
Editor’s Rating:
Multifunctional
This device is perfect for various troubleshooting tasks. The product includes two meters in one device that’s easy to read and comes in a convenient size. The Extech EX330 Autoranging Mini Multimeter is a full-featured digital device with a non-contact detector for voltage. It measures DC/AC voltage up to 600V and DC/AC current up to 10 amps with a basic accuracy of 0.5%.
You can also use this device to measure continuity testing, diode testing, and resistance. It has a LED display that’s easy to read, a LED indicator, an audible beeper, and an indicator for low battery. It also comes with a Type K probe, allowing you to measure temperature.
Convenient features
This multimeter makes use of a combination of red-colored indicator lights and sounds to notify you of the presence of voltage when you place it near live switches, outlets, wires, and more. The LED display of this device features large digits, allowing you to make quick and accurate readings no matter how much light your environment has.
One of the most convenient features of this multimeter is its auto-ranging function that allows you to choose the appropriate range of measurement while you work on different components. It also has a max hold function for you to capture the highest reading of the device and a data hold function for you to freeze the current reading.
Design
This multimeter has a superior design that sets it apart from other models. The compact size of this device allows you to place it in your pocket for when you’re on-the-go. It also comes with a tilt stand and a rubber holster that provides protection for the multimeter. This holster protects the device from bumps, falls, and more.
- Comes with an NCV or non-contact AC voltage detector already built into the device.
- 4000-count auto-ranging device that measures duty cycle, frequency, resistance, current, and voltage.
- UL-listed as Cat III 600V and comes with a Type K probe for temperature.
- Includes a rubber holster to keep the meter protected.
- Some issues with the device’s display.
10. Amprobe PK-110 Electrical Test Kit with Voltage Probe
Use it to check for the presence of voltage in light fixtures, extension cords, switches, receptacles, and more. You can also use the Amprobe PK-110 Electrical Test Kit with Voltage Probe to verify the proper wiring if ground fault circuit interrupters and standard wall outlets.
Editor’s Rating:
Easy to use
This kit comes with three different electrical testers that come with various testing functions for different applications. From identifying the presence of voltage to verifying the correctness of wiring, this kit offers all the features you need to perform electrical tests safely and quickly. You can also use it for troubleshooting fuses, light bulbs, and more.
Superior performance
This kit contains special electrical components that possess the features you need for troubleshooting, interventions, and testing. The Amprobe PK-110 Electrical Test Kit with Voltage Probe includes the AM-420 multimeter, VP-1000 non-contact probe for checking voltage, and an ST-102B tester for sockets.
The measurable DC or AC voltage of this device is up to 250V, the maximum DC for current is 200mA, and you can measure resistance up to 2 Ohms. This device has a 110V to 125V operating voltage for standard sockets in Canada and the US.
Complete
With this kit, you can accurately take measurements and perform tests and verifications. It’s a complete kit that includes everything you need for various purposes. The continuity function allows you to troubleshoot fuses and light bulbs. The voltage function allows you to test cords and verify the proper wirings of outlets.
The non-contact detector for voltage allows you to detect the presence of voltage in different electrical systems. The socket tester allows you to detect different kinds of wiring faults while the illuminated lights indicate the type of wiring issue that exists.
- This is a complete kit that allows you to measure voltage, DC resistance and current, and even battery testing.
- Use it to check for voltage in extension cords, light fixtures, switches, and receptacles.
- Verify the proper wiring of wall outlets and ground fault circuit interrupters with the push of a button.
- Comes CSA-listed to ensure your safety.
- Some of the features don’t work as well as expected.