10 Best Multimeters 2026 in the United States

The Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter is a solid choice for professionals and serious hobbyists who need precise and reliable measurements in demanding environments. It stands out for its accuracy and resolution, offering up to 20,000 counts, which means it can detect very small changes in readings—ideal for detailed troubleshooting. Its range is impressive, measuring AC and DC voltages up to 1000 volts, suitable for industrial and advanced electrical work. The built-in low-pass filter helps get clean frequency measurements on devices like adjustable speed drives, and the Peak Capture feature can catch very brief electrical events, which many basic meters miss.

Safety is a priority here, with high safety ratings (CAT III 1000V, CAT IV 600V) that protect users when working on high-energy circuits. Included accessories like test leads, alligator clips, and a temperature probe add convenience and versatility. However, it runs on four AA batteries, which might require frequent replacement in heavy use. While it’s a bit heavier and larger than simpler models, this reflects its rugged build quality and advanced functions.

If you need a reliable, feature-rich multimeter for industrial or complex troubleshooting tasks, the Fluke 87V is an excellent tool that balances precision, safety, and practical features.

The Extech 380942 Mini Clamp Meter is a compact and lightweight tool designed for measuring AC and DC currents up to 30 amps, making it suitable for basic electrical troubleshooting and household use. It offers a good accuracy of ±0.5%, which is reliable enough for most everyday tasks. The meter includes a True RMS function, enabling accurate measurement of both simple and complex electrical signals. Its measurement resolution for light intensity ranges down to 0.1 foot-candles, providing fairly precise lighting-related measurements.

The included sensor with a 47-inch coiled cable and a built-in stand adds convenience, allowing easy positioning of the meter and taking readings in tight or awkward spaces. Safety is well covered with multiple certifications (CSA, ETL, IEC), offering peace of mind when working on electrical systems. The meter is battery-powered and comes with included test leads and batteries, though it lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models, such as data logging or Bluetooth connectivity.

This Extech clamp meter represents a solid choice for users needing a simple, portable, and accurate tool for basic current measurements and light intensity checks, though it may not meet the needs of professionals requiring a wider range of measurements or more advanced functions.

The Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter is designed for a broad range of electrical applications, which makes it quite versatile. One of its major strengths lies in its accuracy and range, with the ability to measure AC/DC voltage up to 1000V and current up to 10A. This makes it suitable for both household and industrial use. Additionally, it covers key measurements such as resistance, continuity, capacitance, diode testing, and temperature, offering a comprehensive toolkit for troubleshooting various electrical issues.

The inclusion of a type K thermocouple for temperature measurement up to 400C is a notable feature for those working with heating and cooling systems. The CAT III 600V safety rating is a critical safety feature, ensuring protection while working on electrical systems in different environments. Its input impedance is designed to give accurate readings without affecting the circuit, which is important for precise measurements.

There are a few drawbacks. The product's weight (450 grams) might be on the heavier side for some users who prefer lighter tools for prolonged use. The battery-powered nature of the multimeter means that ensuring you have spare batteries is crucial to avoid downtime. Additionally, some users may find the lack of advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity or data logging a limitation, especially for more complex tasks requiring detailed records over time. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Fluke 17B+ stands out as a reliable, accurate, and safe tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts needing a robust multimeter for various electrical applications.