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10 Best Cheap Multimeters 2025 in the United States

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#2

Fluke 323 Clamp Meter For Commercial/Residential Electricians, Measures AC Current To 400 A,Measures AC/DC Voltage To 600 V, Resistance And Continuity, Includes 2 Year Warranty And Soft Carrying Case

The Fluke 323 Clamp Meter is a solid choice for both commercial and residential electricians looking for a dependable and affordable multimeter. It can measure AC current up to 400 amps and AC/DC voltage up to 600 volts, making it versatile for various electrical tasks. Its true RMS sensing ensures accurate readings, which is essential for both linear and non-linear loads, adding to its reliability. The device’s resistance measurement and continuity check functions are handy for troubleshooting circuits. However, it does not measure DC current, which may be a limitation for some users.

The jaw opening is designed to measure current in a conductor without interrupting the circuit, which is both convenient and safe. It also meets stringent safety standards (IEC 61010-1) and is rated for CAT IV installations up to 300V and CAT III installations up to 600V, ensuring a high level of protection during use. The included soft carrying case and 2-year warranty add to its value. Despite being corded, it is lightweight (200 grams) and compact, making it easy to handle and transport. Batteries are included, so it's ready to use right out of the box. Its yellow color makes it easy to spot in a work environment.

One potential drawback is its reliance on a corded power source, which may not be as convenient as battery-operated models for some users. The Fluke 323 is a reliable tool for electricians who need a straightforward, accurate, and safe multimeter for a reasonable price.

Customer Highlights

A summary of real customer reviews to highlight what shoppers are saying!
Measurement Range
Despite its excellent quality, it doesn't read high ohm values or DC current, but you can't beat the price.
Accuracy
This reliable meter gives accurate measurements, making it perfect for troubleshooting electrical problems without any doubts.
Additional Features
It's easy to use, packed with features, and small enough to carry anywhere, whether you're measuring voltages, amps, resistances, or continuity.

Buying Guide for the Best Cheap Multimeters

Choosing the right multimeter can be a bit overwhelming, especially if you're new to using one. A multimeter is a versatile tool that measures electrical properties such as voltage, current, and resistance. When selecting a multimeter, it's important to consider your specific needs and the types of tasks you'll be performing. Here are some key specifications to help you make an informed decision.
Measurement RangeThe measurement range of a multimeter indicates the maximum and minimum values it can measure for voltage, current, and resistance. This spec is important because it determines the types of electrical systems you can work with. For general household use, a multimeter with a range of up to 600V for voltage, 10A for current, and 20MΩ for resistance is usually sufficient. If you plan to work on automotive or industrial applications, you might need a multimeter with higher ranges. Choose a multimeter with ranges that match the highest values you expect to measure.
AccuracyAccuracy refers to how close the multimeter's readings are to the actual values. This is crucial for tasks that require precise measurements. Accuracy is usually expressed as a percentage of the reading plus a number of digits. For example, ±(0.5%+2) means the reading could be off by 0.5% of the value plus 2 digits. For most DIY and general use, an accuracy of ±1% is acceptable. If you need more precise measurements, look for a multimeter with higher accuracy.
DisplayThe display of a multimeter shows the measurement readings. A clear and easy-to-read display is important for accurate readings. Most multimeters have an LCD display, and some may include a backlight for better visibility in low-light conditions. The number of digits on the display (e.g., 3.5 digits) indicates the resolution. For basic use, a 3.5-digit display is usually sufficient. If you need more detailed readings, consider a multimeter with a higher resolution display.
Auto-Ranging vs. Manual RangingAuto-ranging multimeters automatically select the appropriate range for the measurement, making them easier to use, especially for beginners. Manual ranging multimeters require you to select the range yourself, which can be more time-consuming but offers more control. If you're new to using a multimeter or prefer convenience, an auto-ranging model is a good choice. If you need more control over your measurements, a manual ranging multimeter might be better.
Safety RatingsSafety ratings indicate the level of protection the multimeter provides against electrical hazards. Look for multimeters with a CAT (Category) rating, which defines the environments in which the multimeter can be safely used. CAT I is for low-energy circuits, CAT II for household appliances, CAT III for distribution panels, and CAT IV for high-energy installations like utility connections. Choose a multimeter with a safety rating that matches the types of electrical systems you'll be working with.
Additional FeaturesSome multimeters come with additional features such as continuity testing, diode testing, temperature measurement, and data hold functions. These features can add convenience and versatility to your multimeter. Consider what additional functions you might need based on the tasks you'll be performing. For example, if you frequently work with electronics, a continuity tester and diode checker can be very useful.

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