10 Best Multimeters For Electricians 2026 in the United States

The Fluke 117/323 Kit Multimeter and Clamp Meter Combo Kit is designed for both residential and commercial electricians, offering comprehensive tools for various electrical measurements. This kit includes the 117 multimeter and the 323 clamp meter, both of which provide accurate AC and DC voltage measurements. The accuracy is bolstered by true RMS technology, which ensures reliable readings even on non-linear loads, making them particularly useful for modern electrical systems with variable frequency drives and other non-linear loads.

The 117 multimeter's low input impedance is another noteworthy feature that helps prevent false readings caused by ghost voltage, increasing reliability in diverse environments. The 323 clamp meter can measure up to 400 A AC current and 600 V AC/DC voltage, making it suitable for a wide range of applications. Both tools are durable and come with a carrying case, enhancing portability and protection. The kit's safety ratings are impressive, meeting standards such as UL, CSA, and CE, ensuring it can be used confidently in various regions and conditions.

The display on both meters is clear and easy to read, which is crucial for quick diagnostics. On the downside, the kit is battery-powered, which means you'll need to keep spare batteries on hand to avoid downtime. Additionally, the combined weight of around 0.8 kilograms might be a bit heavy for some users to carry around for extended periods. The Fluke 117/323 combo kit is a highly regarded toolset, well-suited for electricians who need reliable, accurate, and versatile measurement tools.

The Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter is a solid choice for electricians, offering a range of features that cater well to their needs. One of its standout strengths is the VoltAlert technology, which allows for non-contact voltage detection, making it safer and easier to use when checking for live wires. The automatic AC/DC voltage selection is another great feature, ensuring you get accurate readings without having to adjust settings manually.

In terms of accuracy, it boasts a +/- 0.5% measurement accuracy, which is quite reliable for most electrical tasks. It also supports a range of measurements, including resistance, continuity, frequency, and capacitance, which adds versatility to its use. The True RMS capability means it provides accurate measurements even on non-linear loads, which is essential for modern electrical systems.

The large LED backlight is particularly useful for working in dimly lit areas, enhancing usability on the job site. Additionally, the low input impedance helps to prevent false readings from ghost voltages, further ensuring the reliability of the readings. However, while the Fluke 117 has many strengths, there are a few drawbacks to consider. Its weight of 550 grams may be slightly heavier compared to other models, which might be a concern for those who prefer lighter tools. Also, while the battery life is impressive at 400 hours without backlighting, keep in mind that it does require two AA batteries, which could mean extra costs in the long run.

The Fluke 87V is a solid choice for electricians needing a reliable multimeter for advanced troubleshooting. Its accuracy is strong thanks to a low-pass filter designed specifically for frequency measurements on adjustable speed drives, which helps get precise readings in complex electrical environments. The ability to capture quick voltage changes with Peak Capture (as fast as 250 microseconds) is a helpful feature for spotting intermittent issues that might otherwise be missed.

The display is flexible, offering a high resolution that ranges from 6000 to 20,000 counts, making it easier to notice small fluctuations in readings. The measurement range is wide, supporting up to 1000 volts AC/DC, suitable for most industrial and commercial tasks. Safety-wise, it carries top ratings (CAT III 1000V and CAT IV 600V), which means it’s designed to protect users working in high-energy environments.

Durability comes from its sturdy build and inclusion of various accessories like test leads, alligator clips, and a temperature probe, which enhance its versatility. The unit runs on AA batteries, which are easy to replace on the go. The multimeter is a bit heavier and larger than some other models, which might affect portability for some users. While it is feature-rich, beginners might find it complex until they get familiar with its functions. This multimeter fits best for professionals or serious DIYers who need dependable accuracy and safety for industrial or advanced electrical work, rather than casual or occasional use.