Any aspiring electrician, auto-mechanics, engineering student, or DIYer needs the multimeter for their works. Most of them want to buy the Best Multimeter under 100 dollars.
Luckily it doesn’t cost you that much.
Within this budget, you can own a standard one. Not only that, a multimeter in this budget can perfectly measure current, voltage, resistance, capacitance, indicator, etc. You just need to check the quality carefully so that it can meet your needs.
Here in this article, we have made a list of Best-Selling Digital Multimeter. As not all devices can do the intended work, most of them have distinct and innovative features.
Let’s check our Reviewed items with the Buying Guide:
Current Best-Selling Item
- MOST POPULAR TESTERS in this convenient kit feature three products for a...
- MULTIMETER FEATURES of the MM300 include measurement up to 600V AC/DC...
- VOLTAGE TESTER APPLICATIONS include 50 to 1000V AC power detection range...
Last update on 2023-03-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7 Best Multimeter Under 100 USD
You’ll glad to know that we love doing research, and we did this legwork for you. We have studied and tested more than fifty multimeters before concluding with the following list.
Now all that is left for you to relax and enjoy these best multimeter reviews.
Top 3 Multimeter Under $100 Comparison Table
Last update on 2023-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
1. INNOVA 3340 – Overall Best Multimeter Under 100
All the Automotive Engineer, are you looking for a faultless multimeter? We have a solid deal for you. INNOVA 3340 is a professional-grade multimeter designed for automotive troubleshooting and unique electrical issues.
Highlights of INNOVA 3340
First of all, this pro-quality Multimeter is suitable for testing and measuring almost everything. Its auto-ranging feature makes it easy to control so that everyone can use it. This feature will save your time and reduces the hassle of setting range.
Along with it, it features auto-shutoff that turns off the device if it goes idle for a while. The INNOVA 3340 comes with overload protection to save the unit in excess load in the circuit.
Unlike others, it includes temperature probes to calculate the temperature in both Fahrenheit and Celsius. Besides, it contains an inductive RPM clamp for automobile needs. 10MOhm impedance helps to avoid damage to the ECU.
The INNOVA 3340 also includes the max/min and hold button to save previous data. Moreover, it has rugged corner guards to provide drop protection. You can carry the unit everywhere as it comes with a carrying case. Overall, it is the Best Multimeter Within 100 USD.
What Can You Do with INNOVA 3340?
- Verifying voltage to the light sockets,
- Checking battery voltage,
- Troubleshooting relays,
- Calculating RPM,
- Testing electrical continuity,
- Checking alternator output,
- Automatic window mechanism,
- Testing the duty cycle, breaker points,
- Diagnosing wiring conditions and more.
Benefits
- Compact size,
- Easy-to-use design,
- Overload protection,
- Automatic power-off,
- Auto-ranging,
- Temperature probes,
- Thermometer included,
- Safe to use.
Drawbacks
- Cannot detect DC voltage,
- Display screen seems too dark
2. Amprobe AM-510 Commercial Multimeter
What if you get a compact yet rugged multimeter along with optimum safety? Well, security is one of the notable features that Amprobe AM-510 has.
Amprobe 510 Review
Amprobe AM-510 has attained CAT IV 600V and CAT III 1000V rating. This Multimeter has also met safety, health, and environmental protection requirements. That’s why it is considered as one of the safe multimeters.
With Amprobe AM-510 manual and auto-ranging, you’ll be able to measure anything. It also includes a unique VolTect non-contact voltage detection for added safety.
Moreover, it comes with a built-in flashlight, Velcro strap, rubber tilt stand, and probe holder for safety and convenience.
It can take an immediate temperature rating on the high and low sides of an HVAC system.
Lastly, its relative zero mode shows the difference between the stored reference value and actual reading. A professional electrician and HVAC technicians also suggest the Amprobe AM-150.
What Can You Do with Amprobe AM-150?
- Rewiring electrical panel,
- Troubleshooting home appliances,
- Repairing electrical sockets,
- Installing heated floors,
- Fixing automotive electrical issues,
- Measuring DC/AC and voltage, capacitance, resistance, micro-current, frequency, and duty cycle, diode, and continuity up to maximum value,
- Checking battery voltage,
- Testing alternator output.
Benefits
- Meet all safety standards,
- Quality design and built,
- Sufficient response time,
- Handy flashlight,
- Easy to use,
- Convenient storage,
- Both auto-ranging and manual ranging capability.
Drawbacks
- Probes claim to not beneficial for continuity,
- Response for resistance could be slightly faster.
3. Klein Tools MM400 Auto Ranging Electrical Temperature Tester
What would it be like if you get every feature in one device? Again, at within your Budget? It will happen if you buy Klein MM400. Undoubtedly, it is one of the Best Value Multimeter Under 100. Let’s see more details about it.
Highlights of Klein Tools MM400
Klein Tools MM400 is an auto-ranging multimeter. It will save your time and trouble of setting the range by yourself. When it comes to safety, it meets the CAT III 600V safety rating.
The best part is, Klein Tools MM400 is built to withstand a 3.3-foot drop with daily wear and tear. It has included a low battery indicator, and a battery compartment is easily accessible.
Moreover, the unit consists of a thermocouple to measure temperature. This multimeter can record data for further needs.
Its auto shut-off feature saves battery power, and a backlit display makes it easy to work in dark conditions.
This pro-quality multimeter also includes a flexible lead wire for convenience. Overall, Klein Tools MM400 is a complete package for the electrician made by an electrician.
What Can You Do with Klein Tools MM400?
- Able to Measure AC/DC voltage up to 600V,
- It can Measure AC/DC up to 10A,
- Measure resistance to 40M,
- Use in residential, business, light-industrial locations,
- Used for continuity and low voltage.
Benefits
- Utmost safety,
- Easy to use,
- Auto shut-off to save power,
- Built to withstand wear and tear,
- Accuracy,
- Compact and sturdy design.
Drawbacks
- The auto-ranging feature responds slowly.
4. Tekpower MS8268 – One of the Top digital Multimeter for the money
The next, Mastech MS8268 digital multimeter. It is pack with a range of remarkable features that any electrician will love.
Highlights of Mastech MS8268
One of the excellent features of Mastech MS8268 is its wide voltage range. It can efficiently measure AC/DC voltage up to 1000V. Its auto-ranging and manual- ranging quality make it a perfect choice for measurement purposes.
The Multimeter goes off after a few minutes of inactivity, which saves a lot of power.
The handheld multimeter includes rubber cases that won’t slip off your hand comfortably.
It also includes a high-quality LCD screen to work in lowlight conditions. Also, the blue backlit illuminates perfectly in such situations. The Mastech MS8268 also includes built-in stands for ease of use.
Unlike others, it provides LED/sound warnings, while incorrect banana jacks are used. All in all, Mastech MS8268 is an absolute must-have for those looking for a worthwhile
What Can You Do With Mastech MS8268?
- Measure DC/AC voltage up to 1000V,
- Measure AC/DC up to 10A,
- Calculate capacitance up to 200Uf,
- Measure frequency up to 200KHz,
- Calculate resistance up to 40MOhm,
- Measure hFE, diode,
- Check continuity.
Benefits
- Extended measurement range,
- Both auto and manual ranging option,
- Built-in stand,
- Auto power-off,
- Larger display screen,
- Blue LED back-light for ease,
- Precision in readings,
- Affordable.
Drawbacks
- Resistance reading respond slowly.
5. Klein Tools MM600 HVAC Multimeter for AC/ DC Voltage
Klein Tools MM600 is the first HVAC multimeter on our list. The design and features are quite similar to the previous Klein Tools but with more voltage range. It’s a perfect choice for HVAC professionals to measure everything faster.
Highlights of Klein HVAC Multimeter
This auto-ranging Multimeter can measure almost everything a multimeter should. Like other Klein Tools, safety is a notable feature. That is because it achieves CAT IV 600V and CAT III 1000V safety ratings.
Besides, it is sturdier as it can withstand a 6.6-foot drop along with wear and tear in job sites. It also includes an easily accessible battery and fuses replacement compartment.
MM600 Meter will alert you when the battery goes down with a battery indicator. This multi-meter also comes with a thermonuclear to measure temperature. You will also get a carrying pouch, test leads, alligator clips, and more.
Overall, Klein Tools MM600 is a device that stands up to the demands of professionals and newbies. It has everything to get started.
What Can You Do with Klein Tools MM600?
- Measure DC/AC voltage up to 1000V,
- Calculate AC/DC up to 10A,
- Measure resistance up to 40MOhm,
- Measure temperature, capacitance, frequency, duty-cycle, continuity, and testing diodes.
- Use in business, residential, and light-industrial locations.
Benefits
- Maximum safety,
- Broad range for all measurements,
- Drop-resistance,
- Compact yet robust.
Drawbacks
- Auto-ranging features seem slow sometimes.
6. Amprobe AM-520 Non-Contact Voltage Detector Multi-meter
When it comes to safety, precision, and ruggedness, Amprobe multi-meter stays ahead in the race. Amprobe AM-520 is another excellent item we reviewed. It is specially designed for HVAC professionals.
Highlights of Amprobe AM-520 HVAC
The Amprobe AM-520 HVAC includes more than it costs, a perfect kit under $100. It comes with detachable test leads to measure all up to an extended range. The unit contains a K-type thermocouple to calculate the temperature.
Unlike others, it has a non-contact voltage detector to detect AC voltage without making any contact. The unit includes a built-in flashlight to read the values and name tags in the dark condition.
The Amprobe AM-520 has an LCD to show readings in the 41-segment bar graph. Also, the backlit display makes the text visible even in low light. You can store the passages in the zero modes.
Moreover, the unit comes with test leads, Velcro strap, battery, and carrying case. Its rubber tilt stand and probe holder come in handy while taking measurements. All these come at a notably reasonable price.
What Can You Do with Amprobe AM-520?
- Installation and repair of AC circuits,
- Checks flame sensors on heating systems,
- Checking wiring continuity,
- Identifying the current change in flame detector applications,
- Testing start/run capacitors on the motor,
- Measuring AC/DC to 10A, AC voltage to 750V, DC voltage to 1000V, resistance to 40MOhm, capacitance to 4000mF, and frequency to 10MHz.
Benefits
- Suitable for a wide range of applications,
- Non-contact voltage detection for added safety,
- Highest accuracy,
- Easy to read display,
- Convenient to use.
Drawbacks
- Probes claim to be faulty,
- Slow response for resistance.
7. Klein Tools Mm500 Auto Ranging Multimeter
Wrapping up our review, we have the Klein Tools MM500 multi-meter. It is also easy to use, accurate, and a durable multimeter like other Klein Multimeters.
Highlights of Klein Tools MM500
Klein Tools MM500 comes with a user-friendly three-button design. It can measure voltage, resistance, and continuity to an adequate range. The unit automatically detects AC or DC, thanks to its true-RMS feature.
Unlike others, it features both visual and audible continuity indicators for ease. Its auto-hold captures the first stable displayed value. The unit shows all the readings into its 4000 count LCD.
The Klein Tools also has perfectly spaced self-storing leads for measuring tamper-proof outlets. Like others, it also has a bright display, backlit, low battery indicator, and auto power-off.
Lastly, the multi-meter has a CAT IV safety rating for 600V and CAT III safety rating for 750V. This easy-to-use multi-meter is a perfect choice for students and beginners.
What Can You Do with Klein Tools MM500?
- Measure resistance, voltage, and continuity,
- Detect AC or DC automatically,
- General voltage readings,
- Use in construction sites.
Benefits
- Easy-to-use functionality,
- User-friendly design,
- Rugged build-quality,
- Cost-effective,
- Self-storing leads,
- Complete package.
Drawbacks
- Limited measuring capability; no capacitance, frequency, and others included,
- Not for professionals.
What to Consider When Buying a Multimeter Under 100? – Buying Guide Checklist
So far you know what is out there, still cannot decide which one to buy? Wondering which attributes, you should consider in a multi-meter?
No worries.
We can help you to know what to consider while shopping for the best multimeter under 100 USD.
Let’s dig deeper into our expert buying guide to know what to take into an account.
1. How Much You Want to Spend on Buying Multimeter?
At first, ask yourself how much you want to spend. Your recommended price range will narrow down your choices. Check which brand comes under your Budget.
In the case of a multimeter, you need what is accurate and affordable. Note that a high price doesn’t always mean high quality. You can even get the best multimeter without breaking the bank.
If you are ready to spend anything between 40-100 USD, you can get a great deal. Do you know, even some people think 40 USD is too much for a multimeter? They buy some units at less than 10USD.
You shouldn’t be astounded to know that those multimeters are total crap and don’t have proper safety. That’s why you have to careful while setting your Budget. The expert buyers should not have any issue to find a quality multimeter at an affordable price.
Remember, within $100, you can get the perfect product. And, here we reviewed all item within this price range. If you have the Budget for more exclusive features, you have a look on the below list.
# | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | | Fluke 117/323 Kit Multimeter and Clamp Meter Combo... | $371.53 | Buy on Amazon | |
2 | | AstroAI Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000 Counts Volt... | $33.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
3 | | KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000 Counts... | $33.99 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2023-03-13 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Do You Comfortable with Analog Technology or Prefer Digital Multimeter?
Most people prefer using an analog multimeter over digital units. They find the readouts for better and visible. Also, they claim that the changing trends are easier to see in an analog device.
However, we found digital multimeter more useful. Let us explain why!
First of all, digital multimeter features excellent visual readouts, e.g., bar graphs. It goes beyond the three primary measurements.
Also, the efficiency of digital multimeters can be convenient while working on multiple electronics. We found few issues in an analog multimeter.
For instance, it has a lower impedance, which affects the voltage measurements.
An accurate analog multimeter is hard to find these days.
So, you better check a better digital multimeter in your price range.
3. Consider Design and Build-Quality
When it comes to design, most people ignore this thing. Folks, you should look at this. Mostly high-quality multimeter comes with a durable casing and finish. Also, note that the multimeter with bright orange or yellow keeps it visible.
4. Safety Features Is a Major Issue
When you are using a multimeter, safety is a significant issue. That is because the multimeter is going to tackle circuits with more than 30 to 35V. While testing any circuit, there can be any current and voltage ratings.
That’s why you should check how it is designed and measurement ratings.
Check if it has any shrouded banana plugs on the multimeter probes or internal blast shields.
Also, there should have broad flanges to avoid slippage and isolation slots to prevent arc over. Check on the package whether it has these handful features. If that model comes at a bit high price, don’t compromise with safety. It’s about your safety, which is way more important.
5. Check Accuracy of Every Parameter
There is no doubt that a multimeter must provide 100% accurate readings. But, sometimes, there may have few units with imperfect manufacturing and cheap components.
Because of this, those unit offers readings with the error.
In that case, you have to be more careful. You need to make sure that the money you spend is well worth it.
6. Additional Features to Pick Best Multimeter within Budget
You possibly know that a multimeter has some essential functions like measuring voltage, current, and resistance. Any multimeter should do at least these three tasks.
Along with these, a multimeter should have continuity mode, a diode, and a backlit.
Moreover, few units can count extra parameters, including capacitance, inductance, and more. Your multimeter will have all these features if you can buy the best multimeter under 100 USD.
Let’s check some additional features:
a. Consider the Display Count and Rate
No matter what an analog or digital multimeter, there is a small display unit above. It shows the reading and measurements. The display count is scale-dependent that denotes how large the number displays on the total digits.
The display count should be higher so you can better see the readings. Similarly, the display rate determines how fast the reads on the unit refreshes.
More accurate and fast reading comes from a better display rate.
b. Auto-Ranging or Manual Ranging
Most contemporary multimeter comes with a feature auto-ranging. It refers to the ability to identify what you are going to test. Here you don’t have to input the range. It is too useful for beginners and students.
With this feature, you don’t have to know capacitance, voltage, resistance, and other values. The multi-meter will do it for you. Conversely, in manual ranging multimeter, you have to see the range of benefits.
7. Ease of Use
Finally, your multimeter should be easy to use, as it is the deciding factor. The features should not be so tough to understand. A decent multimeter let you decide on selections for variables. It should be usable for both newbie and experts.
Last update on 2023-03-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
How to Use a Digital Multimeter?
Once you brought a multimeter, the first thing comes in mind that how to use it. Here we will tell you the Best Way to Use It:
Mostly a multimeter includes three essential parts:
- A display,
- Selection knob,
- Ports.
1. Getting Familiar With Digital Multimeter- Know the Symbols
In the knob section, you’ll see a range of symbols and values. You may not need half of them in your projects. Still, it is better to know them for further needs. Here are a few symbols in a multimeter.
i. Direct Current Voltage (DCV): It is used to measure the DC voltage and sometimes denotes as V-.
ii. Alternative Current Voltage (ACV): It is used to measure AC voltage from an outlet and sometimes indicates as V~.
iii. Direct Current Amperage (DCA): It measures the DC.
iv. Resistance (Ω): It measures the opposition in the circuit.
v. Continuity: It tests whether the circuit is closed and if any current is flowing. It usually denotes as diode or wave symbol.
vi. Direct Current Gain (hFE): It tests the transistors and its DC gain.
Now, let’s know how to measure voltage, current, and continuity in the following step by step guide.
2. Process of Measuring the Accurate Voltage
- Turn on the multimeter and plug in the probes in their corresponding ports. Here we will measure the voltage on an AA battery.
- Set the selection knob to the highest setting (say 200V) as you don’t know the voltage range.
- Now set the black probe on the contrary end and red probe on the positive end of the battery. Check the reading on display, and it shows 1.6, which means 1.6Volts.
- For a more accurate reading, you may want to change the selection knob to 20V. It will show the rest readings after the dot, e.g., 1.61V.
- You can set the selection knob more or less based on the thing you are going to measure.
3. The Way of Testing the Current
To measure current, you’ll need a series connection. It means you need to interrupt a completed circuit to know the current is flowing there. Here, we will measure the current flowing from the battery to the internal circuit.
Set the setting in the selection knob to a range. Check the multimeter display shows the current that the clock is dragging.
Last update on 2023-03-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
- Take two wires of white and red color. Place the red wire at the positive side of the battery and white cable to the opposing side.
- Now interrupt the circuit by cutting in between red wire. Place two probes at two-point and complete the circuit again.
- Set the setting in the selection knob to a range. Check the multimeter display shows the current that the clock is dragging.
4. Procedure of Testing Continuity
- Firstly, turn the selection knob to the diode symbol to check continuity. See, it shows ‘1’, which means we haven’t connected anything to the probes.
- Now, to measure the continuity in any circuit, turn off the power. Connect one probe to one end and other to the other end.
- If the circuit is completed, then it will show ‘0’ reading. Otherwise, you’ll see a value other than 1. In that case, you have to take the necessary step to complete the circuit.
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FAQ
1. Does the Fluke 117 Measure Temperature?
Ans: Yes, it does. Any good multimeter can measure temperature in the thermocouple. In the case of Fluke 117, you’ll need an adapter for the temperature probe.
2. What is the Best Multimeter for Home Use?
Ans: Well, there is a range of options for the multimeter available. A few of them we found suitable for home use — for example, Fluke 116 HVAC, Fluke 117 RMS, Fieldpiece HS33, etc.
3. What is the Best Multimeter for HVAC?
Ans: If you ask for our recommendation, we’ll like to suggest Fluke 3000 FC multimeter. It is one of the Best HVAC multimeters for professionals. Thanks to its wireless operation, safety features, and more.
See More Valuable HVAC Multimeter
Last update on 2023-03-17 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. What Does Ghost Voltage Indicate?
Ans: Ghost voltage denotes as phantom reading. It leads the user to the wrong decision and diagnosis of any faulty circuit.
5. What is the Difference Between Fluke 115 and 117?
Ans: Both Fluke 115 and 117 are true-RMS multimeter. Most of the specifications are the same in both. However, Fluke 117 is known as an electrician multimeter for features like VoltAlert non-contact voltage detection and LoZ ghost-voltage detection.
None of them will found in Fluke 115. These features make the differences between Fluke 115 and 117.
# | Preview | Product | Rating | Price | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
1 | | Fluke 117/323 Kit Multimeter and Clamp Meter Combo... | $371.53 | Buy on Amazon | |
2 | | AstroAI Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000 Counts Volt... | $33.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
3 | | KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter TRMS 6000 Counts... | $33.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
4 | | Klein Tools MM600 Multimeter, Digital... | $69.99 | Buy on Amazon | |
5 | | Fluke 1587/I400 FC 2-In-1 Insulation Multimeter... | $1,036.67 | Buy on Amazon |
Last update on 2023-03-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Final Words
To close, we’ve come to the end of our review on the best multimeter under 100. All we want to say, never take any risk by buying the poor-quality device. You are going to use it for electrical needs.
Fortunately, our advanced multimeter won’t let you take that risk. The multi-meter included in the list can gratify hobbyists, beginners, and experts as well. So, pick one that best suits your needs.
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