A multimeter is a valuable tool to those who deal with electronics. In fact, without a metering device, there is nothing much an electrician can do. This is why it is best to pick out an ideal one for better performance on the task.

There are different variations of multi-meters on the market and many factors to put into consideration, such as category rating and features. While you shouldn’t leave yourself short, you don’t need to go over the top either.

This article gives equitable guild to help you research and select which is the best multimeter to buy. We cover main brands and models, with detailed features, specifications, and the pros and cons of a given device.

Best Multimeter Comparison Table

Products	Voltage	Auto Range	Weight	Price
Fluke 87	600V	NO	0.78 lbs	Check Price
Fluke 116	600V	YES	0.55 lbs	Check Price
Fluke 115	1000V	YES	0.87 lbs	Check Price
Fluke 117	600V	YES	1.55 lbs	​Check Price​
INNOVA 3340	10 MegOhm	YES	1.12 lbs	Check Price
INNOVA 3320	​	YES	11.2 ounc	Check Price
Klein Tools MM1000	1000V Measures 10AMP	YES	3.5 lbs	Check Price
Mastech MS8229	​	YES	14.1 lbs	Check Price
Craftsman 34-82141	600V	NO	10.4 ounc	Check Price
Amprobe AM-570	1000V	​	1.9 lbs	Check Price

What to Look for in a Multimeter?

A multimeter is an essential working device for the electrician and non-electrician alike. The selection can seem overwhelming, but as long as you understand the basics, it’ll be easier to select the right meter.

Features

Not all multimeters are made equal. Although cheaper meters have come a long way over the past few years, it pays to search deep as those with a higher value have a better build quality and are more accurate.

Input Impedance

This is the internal resistance of the actual testing circuit of the multi-meter. In this case, the higher the input impedance is, the better, so the meter itself has a minimal effect on the total results when measuring resistance in a given circuit. Here’s a caveat- if you plan on testing systems where ghost voltages induced through neighboring circuits may be a problem, an extra low impedance mode would be useful.

VOLTAGE

• Up to 600V AC / DC, CATIII rated
• Bonus extends into the millivolt (mV) range

CURRENT

Current is up to 10A continuous AC / DC amps. They have to be separate, fused inputs for amperage (A) and milliamp (mA) ranges – different jack sockets. Fuses should be the quick blow, non-destructive ‘HRC’ ceramic type.

The ones into HVAC and electronics will need a micro-amps (μA) range.

RESISTANCE

Resistance input range preferably upwards of 20-40MΩ, which could be required when testing circuit board components.

CONTINUITY

For measuring breaks in circuits, the unit must have a good beeper with a quick-latch reaction time. Less expensive multimeters tend to suffer on continuity test speed. Linemen, in particular, need fast continuity. The Flukes need to be sharp.

Auto Ranging

Keep on with the testers with auto range, which is usually standard nowadays. This means that you don’t need to select an individual range manually within a range (e.g., up to 200V, or 20kΩ). The meter will determine the right one for you and display the result automatically with the correct decimal figure.

Battery Issues

It is worth pointing out that many low-cost multimeters can lose their charge quite quickly and you might find yourself forever opening up the back to replace the (9V) batteries. Try to select one with a battery duration of at least 200 hours – usually specified without backlight. AA batteries are more efficient than 9V cells and are affordable.

There are different brands of multimeters, and it may become very challenging to select the best if you are not very familiar with their features and workings. The best multimeter will always have the right features to make your work easier and more efficient.

Our Top 10 Best Multi-meter Reviews:

1. INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multi-meter Review:

INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multi-meter has been designed quite simply and accurately to analyze different electronic problems both in automotive and domestic appliances.

It is one of the most accurate auto ranging multi-meters seen on the market. With its features, you will be able to quickly detect errors and find the perfect solution to any electrical issue in little time. It saves you a whole lot of effort and eliminates any guesswork when troubleshooting appliances occur.

Features:

The most basic function of this device is the measurement of DC and AC voltage. Other features include audible continuity checker, diode checker function, measuring resistance and the measurement of AC/DC.

However, one unique feature of this device is the fact that it measures up to 200 MA of AC and 10 amps of DC. Most people need a multi-meter for the measurement of DC, and it is rarely used to measure AC. This makes the INNOVA 3320 a worthwhile investment since it has enough measuring capacity DC for most applications.

As the circuit board of the device makes use of original spec electrical components, the meter reads very accurate when used to measure current and resistance. According to most users, it is the most consistent multi-meter ever manufactured. Moreover, it is quite affordable compared to other auto ranging multi-meters in its category. Most auto-ranging multi-meters of the same category range have a very slow auto ranging speed. But with INNOVA, you will get an accurate and fast measurement which leads to increased efficiency and saves time.

Available with a battery load tester- this is an added advantage if you deal with batteries and sometimes need to check the battery to know its status on the tester. The tester indicates three colors such as the color red for bad, orange for weak and green for good. This offers the best method of ascertaining the proper condition of the battery.

It is also available with detachable chest leads. This gives the device protection against damage in case it accidentally drops on the floor. The multimeter also comes with arm straps which enable users to easily slide their arm into the meter and keep it secured while the measurement is being taken. This feature is very beneficial when making measurements on automotive electrical systems.

Perfect for:

This multimeter is best for DIY users and to those that deal in the auto industry. It can easily diagnose errors in electronic circuit and appliances, as well as electronic check circuitry with this tester. It is also ideal for working on basic computer networks and is specially tailored to testing batteries.

Pros:

List below are reasons why the INNOVA 3320 digital multimeter is the number one choice for most electricians and auto mechanics

• It built a single testing resistance function for DC and AC voltage
• It features coded color LED and large digital display for quick checking battery
• It’s auto-ranging feature eliminates the need to manually dial the appropriate range when measuring AC and DC
• It is UL licensed manufactured to accurately and safely troubleshoot different electrical problems
• It features protective rubber guard for safety

Cons:

• It can only measure about 200 M Amps. So, it might not be suitable for users looking to measure substantial AC

Summary

The INNOVA 3320 is an appropriate tester for home and automotive industry. If you need to test high amperage AC circuits or three-phase systems, it is best to plumb for a more substantial multi-meter. It has most other features and boasts a large display, battery check, and auto-ranging.

2. Craftsman 34-82141 Digital Multi-meter with 8 Functions and 20 Ranges Review:

This Craftsman Digital Multi-meter features an LCD screen, a continuity beeper for checking correct wiring or shorts (below 30 ohms) and a diode test mode to check distinct electrical and electronic equipment. It can measure 600V of AC and 10Amps of AC for electrical connections, home appliances repairing purposes, etc.

Also, it can measure 600V DC and 10 Amps DC of auto marine, fixing issues, other electronic fittings, etc. It comes with a 1.5V and 9V battery test for user suitability. It is built with a holster constructed from rubber for highly securing the fuse system and also a tilt stand for a suitable purpose. This Digital Multi-meter made with 8 functions and 20 ranges.

Features:

Best for any electrician or DIY user analyzing the home, this Craftsman digital multi-meter give users reliable data. With different functions, this multi-meter provides the information that is needed when working on home’s appliances and car to ensure safety precaution. The tool test and measure temperature, amps, AC, DC, resistance, capacitance, frequency, continuity, and Ohms.

• Be up to date with AC/DC Voltage info with Craftsman 8 function digital multimeter with auto ranging
• Multi-meter tests continuity, diode and duty cycles along with AC/DC
• Get the data needed to handle circuit temperature, amps, AC, DC, resistance, capacitance, frequency, continuity and Ohms issues
• Includes test leads and thermocouple
• Features auto on/off to save battery duration
• Professional quality of work and home device box

Pros:

• The fuse is protected with a rubber holster
• It includes a 1.5 and 9-volt battery test
• 8 functions and 20 ranges

Cons:

Some issues with changing batteries

Summary

In the Craftsman 34-82141 review, it has a capacity meter for the home, yard, and backup for linemen. It has all the standard ranges and can measure amperage, although is manual ranging only and the screen is not backlit. Although it can handle fused mains, electricians and electronics experts would want something more substantial.

3. Amprobe AM-570 Industrial Digital Multi-meter with True-RMS Review:

The AM-570 is an excellent multi-meter for an industrial maintenance technician. A flagship device of Amprobe’s 500 series, it is primarily aimed at professional electricians, built with a CAT-IV rating and features like low impedance, low pass filter (to measure variable frequency drives) and dual temperature measurement.

It also measures all the standard ranges accurately, such as voltage, current, resistance, and continuity, and is thus as good for issues around the electronic appliance as it is for troubleshooting advanced electrical systems. The best thing about the Amprobe AM-570 is its affordable value, putting it in reach of ordinary people were equivalent Flukes are typically out of range.

It is the best in the latest new series of DMMs made by Amprobe- the 500 series. This device has most of all the features that Amprobe offers in this series, making this meter the best value.

It measures a complete range of electrical parameters for HVAC applications with dual thermocouples for taking different temperature measurements, low current filter for variable frequency drives, and capacitance for motor start-ups and microamps for flame sensors.

Features:

• AC/DC Voltage up to 1000V, AC/DC, resistance, frequency, capacitance, temperature
• Dual thermocouple to take simultaneous temperature readings on low/high side of HVAC output
• Low pass variable frequency drives
• Non-contact voltage detection
• Audible continuity
• Diode test
• Dual reading backlit LCD
• Max/min memory
• Peak hold (crest)
• Relative zero mode
• Auto power off and low battery warning

Perfect for:

This device is mainly aimed at professionals, such as HVAC technicians and maintenance engineers. It was built to analyze complex systems and measure three-phase circuits, as well as an electric circuit. With that, it also appropriates for ham radio (amateur radio) users and will do well in any home or auto garage.

Pros:

• CAT-IV / CAT-III rated (600V/1000V)
• Safe precaution
• Low pass filter and low impedance
• Voltage detection
• Dual temperature probes
• Excellent dual display, with bar graph
• Display is backlit
• LED flashlight

Cons:

• Temporarily backlight
• Slow auto-ranging
• Short detector range

Summary

With the Amprobe, AM-570 device is an advanced multi-meter with many useful and innovative features. For those who can’t quite justify paying top price for a Fluke, this is a great alternative. It may be a bit slow on speed, but it can test most of what equivalent Flukes can and is accurate.

4. Fluke 87-V Digital Multi-meter Review:

Their flagship multi-meter, the industry standard, idolized by many; there are lots of superlatives that fit with the Fluke 87V. In short, it is the go-to meter for industrial electricians, with guaranteed reliability, accuracy and toughness to make it one of the best multi-meters on the market.

The 87-V is the top model of the revered 80 series, built like a brick and dependable enough for the professionals to use. It is best for troubleshooting electrical and electronic systems, built to handle complex signals and currents up to 20A.

A perfect RMS meter, it is very accurate and has all the test ranges, including capacitance, an auto-touch feature and an excellent dual resolution, 20000-count display.

Features:

• Built-in thermometer
• Correct RMS AC voltage and current
• Selectable filter for accurate motor drive analysis on voltage and frequency
• Auto and manual ranging
• DC accuracy to 0.05%
• Measures up to 1000V AC and DC
• Measures 10A continuous, 20A for the 30s
• Resistance, continuity and diode test
• Capacitance to 10,000µF
• Dual display resolution – 6000-count / 20000-count
• Large backlit display
• Analog bar graph for fast changing signals
• Min/Max/Average
• Auto Hold
• Relative mode
• Probe leads warning
• Safety rating – CAT-III (to 1000V), CAT-IV (to 600V)

Perfect for:

While anyone can use the Fluke 87V – HVAC engineers, installation electrician, electronic technicians, and automotive trainees – it is best suited to the industry. It is quite a heavy-duty meter, with more accuracy and advanced features that might be required for some trades, or in the home. It is the preferred choice of professionals, where problems need to be solved fast.

Pros:

• Reliable and durable
• Accurate and stable
• Fast
• Retains accuracy over time
• CAT IV-rated
• Features are well implemented
• Dual resolution screen
• Two screen backlight settings
• Excellent battery duration
• Separate battery compartment
• Removable holster
• Test lead storage

Cons:

• Relatively heavy
• Costly
• No separate fuse compartment
• Lack of Battery reliable terminals
• 9V battery as opposed to AAs

Summary

This is one of the more expensive devices on the market and may be overkill for beginners, but can certainly get what you pay for and the Fluke 87V has likely detailed the number one all-round multi-meter in the industry. It boasts of the hallmarks needed in a high-end test meter, such as accuracy, reliability, high resolution and strongly builds. It measures most ranges very well and will easily last longer.

5. Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multi-meter Review:

The Fluke 117 is a reliable digital multi-meter aimed at domestic and light industrial electricians. Compact and sturdy, it is one of the 110 series, which is Fluke’s cheaper range of multi-meters. Despite this, it features a solid build quality and has many impressive features, inclusive of True RMS, auto-ranging and non-contact voltage detection.

This is a highly capable tester, boasting a high potential for accuracy, quality, and durability.

Features:

Most of the features of the Fluke 117 electrician’s multi-meter are pretty impressive. This is a Real RMS meter, such that if you have an erratic sign wave or square wave situation, you still get accurate readings. Where the signal is always fluctuating, recording and averaging the reading through the Min/Max feature also gives a fairly accurate result.

LoZ displays out ‘ghost voltages’ on closed circuits through its low input impedance mechanism. Together with this is the Auto-Volt setting, if unsure of the range of a given circuit. This setting will pick up either an AC or DC range up to a maximum 600V and will read the result correctly.

The main difference to other meters of the 110 series is the addition of a VoltAlert detector. With its sensor at the top of the tester, it can quickly ascertain voltage through a cable or wall, as with a voltage stick. Though you don’t get a real value onscreen, it saves having a separate piece of equipment. There are two sensitivity modes, Hi and Lo – best for roughly five inches and one inch respectively.

Perfect for:

In the Fluke 177review, electricians, maintenance engineers, and HVAC technicians will benefit most. While perhaps being an overkill for hobbyists, those wanting accuracy, reliability, and precaution should also consider this. There are better, affordable options for those working with basic electronics, but it doesn’t suit professional electronics work due to fairly narrow voltage/ current/capacitance ranges.

Pros:

• Portable
• Large backlit screen
• Special features like non-contact voltage detection and auto-volt settings
• Can measure nonlinear loads accurately
• Very accurate frequency check to 50KHz
• Easy battery access
• Responsive bar graph
• Excellent build quality

Cons:

• No milliamp/micro-amp range
• Display resolution could be better
• Fiddly ‘hold’ functions
• Casing absent

Summary

Fluke 177 device reveals one of the best electrician’s multi-meters on the market. It measures all the main degrees very accurately and has a responsive display and mind-blowing precaution ratings. It is perfect for troubleshooting electrical problems in industry, especially with its True RMS function. Although quite expensive, it lasts longer and comes with a lifetime warranty.

 6. Fluke 116 HVAC Multi-meter Review:

The Fluke 116 is part of the 110 series of compact multi-meters. It is focused at HVAC electricians and, though relatively basic, it has all the tools to troubleshoot an array of heating and cooling faults, including flame sensor and capacitance issues.

There are some useful parts of this device, such as auto-volts for troubleshooting boards with both AC and DC signals, addition with a low impedance range. Professionals and trainees will enjoy the 116 as it is easy to use, reliable, and accurate enough to handle most electrical tasks. Its diminutive size is also an addition to get into tight spaces.

The 116 is a great, full range multi-meter despite being quite small. It is easier to use than some of the bigger Flukes due to its thumb dial having mostly dedicated ranges – even the continuity range has its position. It handles most scenarios that an HVAC system can throw at it, including flame sensor faults through its micro-amps range.

Auto-ranging has defaulted on the Fluke 116, which means it will select the best resolution for a given signal. You also have the alternative of switching to manual range mode and selecting the appropriate range yourself. This is an advantage of speeding up readings.

Features:

• Ergonomic design with thumb function
• Thermometer and micro-amps for HVAC tasks
• Measures AC/DC voltage and millivolts
• Measures resistance, continuity, capacitance, frequency
• AUTO-V to detect voltage type
• Attractive screen with bar graph and backlight
• Min/Max/Average and hold functions
• Manually-range as well as auto-range
• CAT-III up to 600V safety rating
• Weight: 1.21lbs (550g)

Perfect for:

HVAC technicians will get the most advantage of this device, but also general purpose electricians can make use it as their permanent meter as much as a standby one. Those in electronics work, such as ham radio users, will also benefit, though resistance, frequency, and capacitance ranges are relatively narrow for sensitive work.

Pros:

• Measures ranges, including capacitance and frequency
• AUTO-V LoZ functions
• Auto and manual ranging options
• Temperature range
• Nice and compact
• Strong case with separate battery compartment

Cons:

• No onboard amps
• Auto-ranging can be slow (manual ranging quicker)
• Hold function is manual only
• Better displays on cheaper meters

Summary

With the review of the Fluke 116, we have a very capable and compact multi-meter for the HVAC purposes. It includes micro-amps, capacitance, frequency and temperature ranges that cover many HVAC tasks.

While not ideal for large industrial function, it has a 600V, CAT-III rating and is also good for general purpose electrics and light electronics work. There are no amps range but can incorporate an amp clamp as an optional extra. Others in the 110 series are primarily designed for pro electricians.

7. Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS Digital Multi-meter Review:

The Fluke 115 is perfect, everyday multi-meter at the lower end of Fluke’s range of measuring devices. It easy to carry test meter fits in the palm, is accurate, and user-friendly.

It appeals to all technicians from trainees and homes electrical users to auto electricians and even field service technicians. A best seller with a build quality and accuracy that competes with higher spec meters, the Fluke 115 review recommends it based on function and cost.

This solidly built, compact Genuine RMS digital multi-meter is part of the dependable 110 series and is a step up from the 114. It can accurately portray voltage, current, resistance, continuity, frequency, and capacitance and also features a reasonable diode test purpose.

It is a major US brand, producing a wide variety of pocket and portable test devices, which includes clamp meters, insulation testers, the calibration system and more.

In conjunction with the potential to measure up to 600V AC and DC, it can measure continuous amperage to 10A, up to 40MΩ resistance, and frequency of 50kHz (very accurately). NOTE: Frequency bandwidth goes beyond 50 kHz, although accuracy is not specified.

Features:

• Compact, ergonomic design
• Large backlit LCD screen for low lighting conditions
• Test voltage, current, resistance, continuity, frequency, capacitance
• Diode Tester
• Reads 10A continuous load (20A for the 30s)
• Auto-ranging
• True RMS
• CAT III 600V safety rated

Perfect for:

This device is a general purpose multi-meter, ideal for most situations in the home, field and light industry. While good for beginner electricians, it also good to technicians as a secondary, more portable, meter, though falls short on testing electronic circuitry.

Usage suggested:

• Light industry
• Training electricians
• Field service engineers
• Home and property maintenance
• Auto industry – audio and diagnostic

Pros:

• Compact
• Solid build quality in and out
• Durable and accurate
• Large screen
• True RMS
• Auto-ranging
• Track signal fluctuations
• Auto power-off
• Smooth, responsive bar graph display
• Good continuity tester
• Easy to access battery compartment
• One-handed operation

Cons:

• Slightly disappointing display resolution
• Lack of dedicated milliamp/micro-amp range
• Lacks Touch Hold mode

Summary

This Fluke 115 review covers one of the firm’s base model multi-meters, good for homeowners electrical engineers. Accurate, sturdy, very portable and featuring most standard testing characteristics, it will fit most tasks, though falls short of a complete service multi-meter.

8. INNOVA 3340 Automotive Digital Multi-meter Review:

​One for the auto technician’s toolbox, the INNOVA 3340 multi-meter is best for testing the whole lot from volts, amps, and resistance to alternator diodes, RPM, dwell angle and temperature. It was specifically designed to diagnose engine problems, and although not intended as a replacement for dedicated, professional garage instruments, it is great as a daily tool and for the average hobbyists.

This is a reliable multimeter for the electrician and engine tech, with years of proven usage in the industry. Though designed for the automotive market, it also does standard electrical measurements accurately, with input ranges to include AC and DC voltage, AC and DC milliamps, DC amps, resistance, continuity, frequency and more.

Vehicle engine tests feature an alternator output, RPM tests for conventional and non-distributor ignition systems check. The included clamp is a perfect touch for checking ignition cables (hands-free) and is useful for old vehicles. You can also check battery voltage with the INNOVA 3340, as well as probe temperatures to read Fahrenheit and Celsius.

This is an auto-ranging meter device, so you can simply select a given input with the dial, and the meter will do the rest. Auto ranging is slower to display than an equivalent manual ranging version as it needs extra time to work out the perfect range.

Features:

• Tests alternator diodes, solenoids
• Measures vehicle RPM / inductive RPM pickup
• Measures DC to 15 amps
• Measures temperature
• MIN/MAX recording
• Auto-ranging
• Auto shut-off
• Auto zero adjustment

Perfect for:

The 3340-meter device was specifically built to aid automotive industry technicians, being able to test RPM speed, engine solenoids, alternators, and much more. Those with no experience can get good purpose out of this too, with basic measuring inputs, including volts, amps, resistance, and continuity. It may not be perfect to those in electronics as there is no capacitance input function.

Pros:

• Great set of auto/car test function
• Nice, bright display
• Auto-ranging
• Fairly accurate across most functions
• Hands-free testing
• Measures temperature
• Data hold

Cons:

• Screen not backlit
• Stock probe leads could be better
• Side probe holders prone to wear

Summary

The ideal backup multi-meter in a garage, or even as the main meter for trainee and professionals alike, the INNOVA 3340 makes light of numerous tasks. It is great for troubleshooting engine problems, such as dwell angle and dodgy alternator diodes, as well as for diagnosing mains electrical faults and basic electronic component failure. It can do what a Fluke does at a fraction of the expertise and provides great purposes, though is not meant to replace professional auto test equipment.

9. Klein Tools MM1000 Electrician’s Multi-meter Review:

​The Klein MM1000 is a no-mess, reliable meter for the electrician and is easy enough to use for non-electricians. This is a perfect meter with auto ranging, automatic dial selector and a good enough compliment of features so that most professions can get a lot use out of it, from electronics to plant maintenance, home DIY, and vehicle tech.

This metering device can measure standard ranges, such as voltage and current, resistance and continuity, along with capacitance, frequency, and temperature. As with other Klein Devices, it is firmly built, and is reliable, fairly accurate, has a bright backlit screen and even ships with screw-on alligator clips. This Klein MM1000 is rated by CATIV, which means it is secure to use in an industrial environment with full precaution.

This is a nice looking electronic device, with perfect lines, solid design and many positive features. It aspires to the Fluke brand and can do as much as their comparable versions, but at a fraction of the cost. It also has a CATIV rating (to 600V) and a CATIII rating (to 1000V). It is thus, safe for testing mains ‘power’ circuits, with a well-designed circuit board and internal units.

Features:

• Auto/manual ranging
• Backlit display
• CATIV rated
• Bar graph
• Rubber Casing
• Relative setting
• MAX/MIN mode
• Auto-shutoff
• Data Hold
• Temperature measurement

Perfect for:

This meter best suit electricians, electronics engineers, automotive technicians, and trainees. Although a serious unit, it will suit beginners just as much as professionals, since it is instinctive and as easy, if not easier, to use than the starter meters. Regards auto technicians, it is okay for testing battery output, unless perhaps you have a major fault or try to start the engine with the meter still hooked up.

Pros:

• Auto-ranging
• Auto-range override
• Temperature probe
• Bright backlight
• Big screen
• Solid and rugged

Cons:

Some of these are not a big deal, but we have nonetheless included some concerns:

• Stock test leads could be better
• Fuses are quite costly
• Average (not ‘TRUE’) RMS

Summary

From the Klein MM1000 review, this tester device is a serious contender to Fluke meters, with a host of well thought out features and a reliable quality that is only seen with the high-end meter manufacturers. It appeals to those in most electrical tasks. If you don’t have the budget for a Fluke, then consider this.

10. Mastech MS8229 Review:

​

The Mastech MS8229 is a budget made a meter with many functions. A handy tester for the price, it can measure most electrically-based criteria along with levels of light, sound, humidity, and temperature. Especially useful for DIY-type work, it is good for both home electrics and electronics purposes.

Despite erring towards the budget end, the MS8229 is quite powerfully built and has relatively steady average accuracy specs. It is also insulated to category III safety rating and would stand up to a certain amount of testing in a light industrial environment. Above all, it is easy to use, with its bright display, auto ranging feature and jack input indicator units.

The MS8229 is a device that can measure sound, light, humidity, and temperature. An upgrade of the popular 8209, it also has several other perfect touches, such as jack socket warning lights, a backlit screen, and a manual ranging choice.

Nice addition with the Mastech MS8229 is the milliamp and micro-amps ranges, which will suit those wanting to test electronic circuitry. There are no dedicated millivolts input, though it does measure into this range on voltage settings. All dial positions have different ranges that can be selected with the manual ranging unit. Capacitance does lack a higher range.

Along with its extra functions, the MS8229 also comes with a relative mode. This is ideal for comparing the value with a previously stored value by zeroing the meter and watching the displacement. This is also useful for testing delicate circuitry as it permits the user to zero out the natural resistance in the probe leads unit.

Features:

• Tests up to 10A
• Measures milliamps and micro amps
• Measures capacitance and frequency
• Auto/manual ranging
• Extra functions: light, sound, humidity, temperature measurements
• 4000-count, backlit display
• Continuity Buzzer
• Diode checker
• Data hold
• Auto power-off
• Safety rated to CAT-III (600V) / CAT-II (1000V)
• Size: 7.7″ (195mm) x 3.6″ (92mm) x 2.2″ (55mm)

Pros:

• Fairly accurate on V, Ω, Hz, and temperature
• Bright display
• Good battery life
• Easy to use
• LEDs on input jacks
• Decent quality probe leads

Cons:

• Continuity fairly slow
• Quiet buzzer
• Decibel range could be higher

Summary

It may not be the most accurate and reliable meter device out there, but this Mastech MS8229 has a lot of extra functions. It is pretty loaded with features and will work perfectly in the home, garage and even in some industries.

If you need to measure sound or light, as well as voltage and current, this device is a steal. The quality is approaching that of similarly spaced Amp robes, while Cen-Tech has a similar, rebadged version.

The Bottom Line

Choosing the best multimeter is no easy feat. There are tons of products with similar specs, varying only in terms of performance. The first and most important step of selecting the right product is to understand how multimeters work. Hope this article gives you all the information you need on these useful devices.