The best multimeters: rating of 2023, TOP 14 for home, review, quality, photo

In any home, the amount of electrical equipment has long exceeded conceivable volumes, so you can’t do without a multimeter. If earlier a couple of screwdrivers and a simple analog device were enough for repairs, today most often a good digital instrument is required, preferably universal, with a large current measurement range and voltage.

What to look for when choosing

A multimeter is a device that is difficult to manufacture and configure. You can't do it on your knee. Many manufacturing companies make inexpensive multimeters based on a ready-made set of parts (a specialized microcontroller and several matching assemblies).

A worker on the line (or a robot) only needs to select high-quality parts and, after assembly, set up the multimeter board. The more imperfections, the higher the percentage of defects, the worse the accuracy. All devices that have passed the Quality Control Department are sent for sale under the brand name. "Lame" blanks of multimeters are sold to "gray" manufacturing companies. Those manually bring the instruments to an acceptable level of accuracy and sell them as a medium or budget class instrument.

Therefore, when choosing a tester, in addition to the information given in the review of the best multimeters, you need to pay attention to the following:

1. Device functionality. There should be basic functions for measuring current and voltage, resistance and capacitance of capacitors. Almost all multimeters have the function of continuity of the wire and testing of field-effect transistors.
2. The presence of high-quality soft cords with probes. By wire, you can even determine how well the multimeter corresponds to the declared characteristics. Not a single manufacturing company will complete a professional tool with cheap wires with "oak" insulation.
3. The quality of the central handle - selector. It does not take much effort to switch the multimeter to the required measurement mode. You can switch settings with just two fingers. The clicks of the latch should be barely audible.

In older models of multimeters, the case was not protected. Almost all modern models are equipped with a soft plastic case. It can be removed. The presence or absence of protection does not affect the quality of the device.

Professional and semi-professional instruments usually come with additional measurement cords. high-ampere current, sometimes a thermocouple (for measuring surface temperature) or a special calibration probe.

When choosing a multimeter, you need to pay attention to the presence of the auto power off and backlight functions, check how clear the sound of the built-in tweeter is. If the backlight is barely lit, or the piezo element is barely audible, then most likely the new multimeter has the supply voltage has dropped (the battery is strongly discharged by the board due to the presence of an internal short circuit tracks).

At the beginning, the type of multimeter is selected. You can buy a light and compact digital multimeter or a more expensive analog tester. The latter often have a heavy massive body with a dial indicator, without backlight and with old switching knobs (buttons). At the heart of such a tool are transistor assemblies. They are less economical, low-voltage power supply, 4.5-9 V.

You can also find modern ones with a pointer indicator. A good instrument will always be heavy, with a large scale. Analog testers and multimeters have one important quality - they can be fine-tuned even with your own hands. In addition, analog instruments are forgiving. In the event of a breakdown, they are relatively easy to repair, while digital multimeters are simply sent to the scrap.

This is useful!How to check the voltage in the socket with a multimeter: measurement rules.

Rating of the best multimeters with basic functionality

This category includes devices with a standard set of functions necessary for measuring electrical networks, circuits, and in the repair of household appliances. All of them belong to the category CAT III - devices for monitoring low-voltage equipment.

М-838 TDM ELECTRIC

A simple, compact device for the most unpretentious measurements, for example, voltage or current in the wiring of household appliances. A dozen years ago, the M-838 was popular. Almost everyone who repaired cars, household appliances and simple radio equipment had the device.

A feature of the M-838 was endurance and reliability. A budget multimeter easily survived after being dropped on a concrete floor or after wintering in a garage. Power supply of the device from 9 volt "Krona". The measurement limits, as for a modern multimeter, are quite modest:

1. The voltage is constant at 1000 V, variable - 750 V.
2. The measurement current is up to 0.2 A; when using a special connector on a multimeter, it was possible to measure up to 10 A for a short time.
3. Resistance up to 200 Ohm.
4. There is also a socket for testing transistors, diodes, capacitor capacitance.

In general, the device is simple, but its capabilities are clearly not enough, as the technique becomes more complex with each generation. An unpleasant feature of the device is a decrease in measurement accuracy when the battery runs out. At the same time, one "Krona" is usually enough for 3-5 years of operation. The multimeter is positioned as an ordinary household device for simple electrical measurements.

Price - from 500 rubles.

DT Series Models 830-832

This is the case when several variants of multimeters were produced on the basis of the same electronic board with a universal controller chip. In this case, based on the DT 830 board, DT 832, DT 837, DT 838 were released. In fact, this is all the same device, the models differ only in minor additional functions.

For example, DT 830 A has a built-in 50 Hz square wave generator, models DT 837 and DT 838 have the option of temperature measurement. But the basis for all multimeters was the DT 830.

Main characteristics:

1. DC current measurement range from 200 μA to 200 mA.
2. Resistance from 0 to 2 MΩ.
3. DC voltage measurement from 200 mV to 1000 V.
4. For AC, the range is 0.1 V to 750 V.
5. There are functions for testing wires, measuring inductance, capacitance, checking p-n-p and n-p-n type transistors.

The measurement accuracy of a budget multimeter is low: for direct current 0.6%, for alternating current 1.2%. It is clear that the multimeter is simple, but its capabilities are enough to repair and adjust household appliances. Or you can give it to the younger generation for experiments in physics lessons at school.

Model DT 832 is one of the few that can be repaired on its own. True, the amount of repair is small, you can replace a fuse, a burned-out resistance or a swollen capacitor.

This is useful!How to test a capacitor with a multimeter: rules and features of measurements.

BORT BMM-1000N

The BORT BMM model has slightly more capabilities. The multimeter manufacturing company thought through the design and overall layout of the instrument. The case has become streamlined, the grip for the hand has improved, that is, it has become more convenient to hold the multimeter and use it for measurements on weight.

Outwardly, an inexpensive multimeter looks attractive, but this is only due to an additional plastic case. Judging by the range and accuracy of electrical measurements, this model is slightly better than the previous versions.

Main characteristics:

1. Measuring range for resistance from 0 to 20 MΩ.
2. The current limit is set to 20 A.
3. You can measure the capacitance of a capacitor in the range from 0.1 pF to 200 uF.
4. The average error is 0.5%, which is slightly better than budget household-class multimeters, but still the device remains at the amateur level. The error in measuring resistance is 0.8%, and direct current as much as 1.2%. There are functions for checking wire contacts, continuity of diodes and transistors.

Most users speak positively about the device. He likes his simplicity, reliability, endurance. All owners are impressed by the simple design and huge LCD display. Few people are interested in the accuracy of measurements, but the general opinion is that it is enough for amateur repairs.

CEM DT912

Not much different from most budget models, but it is expensive. The multimeter is twice the price of the most popular budget electrical measurement instruments. The reason for this is the original approach of the manufacturer to the layout of the multimeter.

In fact, this is a standard device for measuring voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, but in the field. Where there is no normal lighting and working conditions. A feature of CEM DT912 is a case closed from moisture. The outer surface of the plastic has rubberized inserts.

In theory, such a device would be useful for those who are forced to work at height, in low temperatures. That is, the multimeter falling on concrete from a height of 2 m will not affect its performance.

ProsKit MT-2018

In the ranking of the best multimeters, this model looks like a black sheep. It is believed that Proskit is slightly outdated and does not meet modern requirements. In fact, this is a good analog tester, the characteristics of which are slightly higher than those of the most common inexpensive "soap dishes".

Features of the multimeter device:

1. Sufficiently large weight - 390 gr. Whereas for most digital classmates, the weight rarely exceeds 100 grams.
2. To indicate the measurement results, a pointer head with several linear scales is used.
3. The measuring range of the multimeter for direct and alternating voltage is from one to 1000 V.
4. Resistance measurement range from 1 Ohm to 20 MΩ.
5. DC current can be measured in the range of 50 µA to 0.25 A. when using an additional connector, it is possible to measure current up to 20 A for a short time.
6. Capacitor capacitance can be measured from 0.25 uF to 25 uF.

There are functions for checking transistors, continuity of diodes and wires. Analog multimeters are well suited for working with capacitors and inductors. ProsKit MT-2018 is no exception.

That is, this device is a typical desktop version of a tester in a laboratory or in a repair shop. The best in terms of price-quality ratio. The heavy weight means that the design ensures measurement stability. Many users purchase a multimeter precisely because it is analog, and at the same time provides high accuracy.

The design feature is the presence of a time delay and the holding of the arrow for 5 s after the end of the measurement. Today it is one of the best options for inexpensive multimeters with universal functionality.

Rating of the best multimeters with advanced features

Many measuring instruments contain interesting additions and functions. Some of them turned out to be useless, but most of them are actively used by the owners when repairing equipment.

UNI-T UT123

A specialized model with an unusual type of indication. This is an inverted screen. It can be used during the day, but the indication is best seen in the dark. Therefore, the model is designed for measurements at hard-to-reach points, with a strong darkening of the screen.

In terms of functionality, the tester may be inferior to the most popular models. For example, it does not have a backlight and a diode test system. But in terms of basic functions, UNI-T UT123 is at the level of the most popular multimeters:

1. The range for measuring resistance is 20 MΩ.
2. The measurement limit for direct voltage is 600 V.
3. Current - up to 10 A.
4. The frequency of the measured variable amplitude signal is up to 400 Hz.

In most cases, a multimeter is purchased for the repair and maintenance of personal vehicles.

Model CEM DT-61

The appearance, design and layout of the multimeter as a whole make a good impression. The device does not have bright flashy yellow and red stickers and "covers". For a serious digital instrument, they are not needed, since any user appreciates his device and tries his best to keep it in working condition.

The CEM DT-61 model is expensive, the average price is at least 7,000 rubles, which is almost an order of magnitude more than that of state employees. This multimeter model is not professional. This is rather an amateur version of the tester, but of good enough quality.

In terms of accuracy and, most importantly, stability of measurements, the multimeter can be attributed to the first in the ranking of inexpensive amateur electronic testers. CEM DT-61 is purchased for both home use and for use in repair shops.

Design features of CEM DT-61:

1. It is possible to measure illumination, noise, temperature and humidity. In this case, the measurement error is relatively small, within 0.5%.
2. High build quality multimeter. It has been observed that most hobbyist testers have squeaky cabinets or loose fittings.
3. Information is displayed in the form of huge numbers, it is simply impossible not to see them. Therefore, the device can always be mounted on the edge of the desktop. So that it does not interfere with the repair of equipment.

In general, the model turned out to be successful. If you choose between the simplest multimeter and a tester made and assembled to the conscience, then the second option will be more successful. Multimeters are bought for more than one year, so good quality usually means a long service life.

The only negative is the presence of additional functions. You may come across the opinion that the failure of the same noise measurement sensor (ordinary piezomicrophone) or temperature can affect the measurement accuracy of the multimeter.

CEM-898

One of the few measuring instruments equipped with a color screen 320x240 pixels and a built-in thermal imager (matrix 80x80 pixels). According to the manufacturer, the multimeter is intended for professional electricians who perform repair and control operations with highly loaded equipment.

Despite the unusual appearance of the CEM-898, this is a common tool for a professional electrician who checks the condition of individual components and parts of switching equipment. Using a thermal imager, you can easily find overheated areas of junction boxes, loose contacts and terminals. The safety class of the multimeter is CAT-IV.

Main measurements:

1. Temperatures are from -20℃ to +260℃ with an accuracy of 0.1℃.
2. Voltage from 0.1 V to 1000 V.
3. AC current - from 400 μA to 10 A, direct current - from 400 μA to 10 mA.
4. Capacitance from 40 nF to 400 uF.
5. Resistance - from 0.1 Ohm to 40 MΩ.
6. Frequency - from 40 Hz to 10 kHz.

In addition, the multimeter has the ability to adjust the frame capture angle, perform measurements with a programmed connection moment. The measurement accuracy is given in the table. It is clear that it is much higher than that of a conventional multimeter, but inferior to the CEM-898 laboratory multimeter.

The multimeter has a standard set of options for semiconductor continuity, contact testing, and transistor testing. The measured value can be fixed on the screen and held until the reading is reset. There is a built-in function for analyzing the hottest and coldest points in the image. The thermal imager sees in the wavelength range from 8 µm to 14 µm.

In general, despite the elaborate design, the developers managed to create a simple, reliable, but at the same time convenient and accurate device. The only disadvantage of the multimeter is its heavy weight - 540 g and high price. The current retail price is $47,000. rub.

Mastech MS8229

Another versatile option. This well-known brand multimeter from Hong Kong was designed to measure not only electrical quantities (although this is the main function), but also environmental data.

The Mastech MS8229 functionality also includes sound pressure level measurement from 35 dB (quiet whisper level) to 100 dB (jet engine sound). You can also measure air humidity (20-90%), temperature and even illumination (range up to 4000 Lx). That is, the multimeter can be used as a portable weather station.

Electrical parameters:

1. Alternating current - from 0.1 A to 10 A.
2. Resistance - up to 40 MΩ.
3. Voltage up to 750 V.

You can also measure signal frequencies up to 100 kHz. The only drawback of the multimeter is the low accuracy. At room temperature, it is 1-2%.

The cost is 5500 rubles, the guarantee from the manufacturer is 12 months.

RGK DM-40

A good quality multimeter, according to the CAT-III class, in terms of characteristics close to a professional instrument. The tester has the entire standard set of functions for measuring voltage, current, and capacitor capacitance resistance.

The device is assembled in a durable case with a polymer case. The multimeter is not afraid of falls from a height of 150-200 cm. It was originally planned that it be used for routine repairs, but in practice it turned out that the tester is suitable for checking the electrical equipment of cars.

Auto electricians immediately identified 3 main functions that make RGK DM-40 is indispensable in working with the electrical equipment of the machine:

1. Mode for measuring small capacitors, which are many in automotive electronics.
2. The function of measuring low-voltage voltage in interference conditions.
3. The presence of a filter to cut off interference with a frequency of 200 Hz.

It is clear that the RGK DM-40 remains a universal device, so you can use it not only in the garage, but also in your home workshop.

Rating of the best multimeters for professionals

This list includes the elite of quality measuring instruments. Inexpensive devices were chosen for the rating, but the main criterion was the accuracy of measurement and the full functionality of the tester.

Model TESTO 760-3

A new generation of multimeters from TESTO-RUS. The design and layout of the device is slightly different from the classic station wagons. First of all, it should be noted a huge LCD screen, almost half the body. A minimum of four lines of textual and numerical information is placed on the monitor. There is a charge level indicator, there are special icons indicating the type of measurement.

This is a fully automatic multimeter, but it can also measure in manual mode.

Main characteristics:

1. Resistance is measured within 6 MΩ.
2. Capacitance can be measured from 0.5nF to 600uF.
3. Voltage - up to 600 V, the multimeter can be used for high-voltage measurements, but only if clamps with additional insulation are used.
4. For a short time, you can measure current up to 10 A, if you use an additional input - up to 20 A. In normal mode, the multimeter measures AC current up to 600 mA.

In addition, there are functions for continuity of circuits, checking diodes. In the automatic measurement mode, the device outputs values ​​1-2 seconds after pressing the machine button.

The tester is recommended for professional use by an electrician or electromechanic. You can buy a multimeter for the home, but its price is an order of magnitude more expensive than for the highest quality universal models. Today, the average cost of TESTO is 40 thousand rubles. rub.

The manufacturer has incorporated into the multimeter the ability to measure current and voltage with an accuracy of 0.1%. The device is excellent, but for most tasks such accuracy is not needed, and for precise work with electronics, TESTO does not have specific functions, such as frequency measurements up to 50 kHz, It is rather a tool electromechanics.

Mastech MY-68

A fairly serious device in its capabilities for measuring almost all electrical quantities available in everyday life. The tester is produced in a classic form factor (black rectangular box 91x189x31.5 mm). To make the grip more comfortable, the manufacturer closed the multimeter in a yellow plastic holster. In general, the device looks simple, but this does not affect the quality of measurements. This is a solid and accurate tester for targeted measurements of electrical quantities.

Things to note:

1. The multimeter, like all devices for accurate measurement, is made with a high internal resistance (10 MΩ), respectively, the error in the measured value is minimal.
2. Mastech MY-68 can work in automatic or manual mode. In this case, 3-4 measurements per second are performed, and the average value is displayed on the screen.
3. The tester has an internal memory, readings can be memorized and stored even when turned off.

The main difference between Mastech MY-68 is that the device performs measurements with high accuracy. On average, the error in current, capacitance, resistance and voltage does not exceed 0.3-0.4%. The only exception is the measurement of high current. In this case, the error increases to 3%.

UNI-T UT70A

Representative of the well-known line of measuring testers of the UNI-T brand. One of the options for inexpensive, but at the same time reliable and most importantly - full-featured models of multimeters. UNI-T has tried to accommodate in a 195x90x40 mm case (without a case) all the possible measurement options that may be required when repairing simple electronics and household appliances.

Tester Device Features:

1. The design and layout is classic, but the device turned out to be large and overall. It helps a lot with a comfortable grip for the hand and a good location for the switching handle of the measurement modes.
2. Measurement accuracy - for current and voltage 0.5-0.8%, for capacitance and inductance 4% and 2%, respectively. There is a logic probe and a signal frequency meter up to 400 MHz.
3. The measurement limit for voltage is 1000 V, for current - 10 A for a short time, it is possible to measure inductance with a nominal value of up to 10 Gn.

The device is easy to use, many positions for measuring signals can be understood intuitively, even without user instructions. Of the minuses, the absence of an automatic signal measurement machine is noted. This is not an automatic multimeter. All settings must be done manually. But, on the other hand, it increased the reliability and efficiency of the device. On one Krona element, the multimeter can work up to 600 hours.

In fact, this is the "workhorse" of most repairmen involved in repairing household appliances and electronics.

FLUKE 87V

Unlike most models, this multimeter was originally designed to work in extreme conditions. The housing is made of durable plastic and is IP67 rated. The device can operate at temperatures from -40℃ to +55℃, which in itself is a confirmation of the high quality of electronics. Typically, LCD screens go out when the frost is only 2-3℃.

Features of the FLUKE 87V device:

1. The instrument uses a high-resolution LCD screen.
2. Measuring wires are made by special technology with minimal resistance.
3. One set of batteries is enough for 800 hours of continuous operation.
4. The maximum signal frequency that the multimeter can detect is 200 kHz. This is about 5 times higher than most "classmates".
5. Moreover, the device is initially focused on measuring an alternating high-frequency signal. To do this, the controller has a special function for measuring interference and interference that appears on the wiring of electrical equipment.

The only negative of FLUKE 87V is the price. Today the cost is at least 60 thousand rubles. rub.

You can judge the quality of the device at least by the fact that the manufacturer of the FLUKE 87V testers, under certain conditions, gives a lifetime warranty.

The best multimeter is one that always adequately measures electrical characteristics with acceptable accuracy, does not freeze or turn off at the most crucial moment. There are many good testers, over time, most users develop their own style of handling the device, so all subsequent testers will be similar to the first model.

Tell us about your experience in choosing a tester - what criteria should be used to choose it, and which one, in your opinion, turned out to be the most successful?