Finally, choose a budget multimeter with good functionality

Measuring instruments are used to quickly check the voltage in the power supply network, repair electrical equipment, and solve other practical problems. To choose a good multimeter, you should take into account the operating mode features. The simplest inexpensive model is purchased for rare use. A modification with expanded functional equipment is suitable for a radio amateur. Professionals need a certain accuracy and increased reliability of their devices. The rating of the best multimeter models will help you choose the best option while studying current market offers. The presented models received high marks from ordinary users and specialists.

Which brand of multimeter should I choose?

Modern production methods minimize the importance of the location of a company's production units. However, you should pay attention to the brand:

• RESANTA is a well-known manufacturer with a well-developed network of sales and service representatives throughout the Russian Federation. In addition to reliable multimeters, its current assortment includes laser levels, indicator screwdrivers, and other measuring and control equipment.
• ZUBR - our own design bureau allows (Russia) to create products with unique characteristics. Some developments are protected by patent law.
• UNI-T is a trademark of the Hong Kong company Uni-Trend Group Limited, which occupies a leading position in the production of measuring instruments. In the Chinese market, the share in the corresponding segment exceeds 30%.
• IEK is a Russian brand with more than 20 years of history. A good reputation is confirmed by the high quality of products at a relatively low price level.
• Mastech (Hong Kong) controls the parameters of all measuring instruments before delivery to the retail chain. Multimeters are certified according to the rules of the Russian Federation. In addition to simple models, the range includes products with advanced functionality.

The best multimeters (household)

Having mastered basic skills, you can eliminate the need to contact experienced specialists and minimize repair costs. An inexpensive but good multimeter will show the actual voltage in the network. Using this device, you can check the integrity of the wiring and clarify the energy consumption of connected devices. Even inexpensive models of multimeters show fairly high measurement accuracy. You can quickly learn working technologies using the instructions from the accompanying documentation. Additional information about how to perform work correctly is available free of charge from online help resources.

RESANTA DT 838

This popular multimeter offers good performance at an affordable price. In addition to the basic set of measurements of electrical parameters, there is a built-in buzzer. This addition is useful for quickly checking the integrity of current-carrying circuits. Temperature readings can be determined using a connected thermocouple. According to the owners, the multimeter is well adapted to rough use. Built-in fuses prevent damage to the product if the range is incorrectly selected.

Pros:

• reasonable price;
• accuracy of work;
• light weight;
• ability to measure temperature;
• socket for testing the functionality of semiconductor devices.

Minuses:

• non-separable design of the probes, making it difficult to restore a damaged wire.

UNI-T UT33D

When studying the serial number of devices, it is recommended to clarify the name. Model “D” has advanced capabilities. In addition to determining the performance of diodes and transistors, it is used to measure temperature. The functionality of individual electronic circuits can be tested using the built-in square wave generator. If necessary, use the “HOLD” button to record the readings on the multimeter display.

Pros:

• good device for home use;
• ergonomic body shape;
• compactness;
• backlight for working in dark conditions;
• generator;
• thermocouple included as standard.

Minuses:

• a platform for testing transistors is only available in modification “A”.

CEM DT-912

This multimeter model is designed in a narrow body with a thickness that is easy to grip with one hand. Special rubber pads provide damping of shock loads. To fix the position at an angle on a horizontal surface, you can use a retractable stand. Large numbers are clearly visible even at a great distance. If necessary, the visibility of the data display is improved with built-in backlighting.

Pros:

• convenient multimeter with good protection from adverse external influences;
• speed of work;
• clear display;
• good assembly;
• convenient stand;
• small error (resistance - 0.8%, voltage - 1.2%).

Minuses:

• The standard dipstick can be damaged by excessive force.

BISON TX-810-T (59810)

If you're looking for a practical multimeter on a budget, you should take a closer look at this model. The inexpensive multimeter ZUBR TX-810-T is created with double insulation of the case. Six rubber pads prevent damage from impacts. At the same time, reliable fixation in the hand is ensured when performing the measurement procedure. The large, backlit display displays data in a user-friendly format.

Pros:

• cheap device with good consumer characteristics;
• comfortable, durable stand;
• presence of backlight;
• ability to measure temperature;
• automatic reboot support;
• ergonomic design;
• high-quality indication of readings.

Minuses:

• There is no transistor check function.

Best lists

Let's highlight the best manufacturers of multimeters according to certain criteria:

• Budget.
• Advanced functionality.
• High accuracy.

Let's take a closer look at them.

PROconnect DT-182 - budget

The Proconnect DT-182 multimeter is compact: the thickness of the device body is only 20 mm, and the width and height are 50 and 100 mm, respectively. The multimeter can be carried even in the inner pocket of clothing or a compact bag. The device is used to measure circuit parameters - AC/DC voltage and basic functions (DC voltage, etc.). Continuity and diode tests can also be performed.

Price: from 280 to 500 rubles.

multimeter PROconnect DT-182

Fluke 106 - advanced functionality

Fluke 106 Multimeter - compact dimensions make this device convenient in any working situation. Thanks to the high quality of workmanship, this multimeter has gained wide popularity among professionals and ordinary users.

With this product you can measure DC and AC voltage and current, capacitance and resistance. Check the continuity of the circuit and diodes. The basic error of the device is 0.5%.

Price tag: from 4,000 to 4,200 rubles.

Fluke 106 multimeter

Mastech M830B - high precision

With the Mastech M830B multimeter, many electrical wiring jobs will be easier and faster. Thanks to the Mastech M830B, you can test diodes and find out the gain of transistors, find out the DC and AC voltage (U), resistance level (R) and find out how much DC current is in the circuit. The presented device can make 2 measurements per second with an error of only 0.5%. Measuring ranges are selected manually.

Price tag: from 567 to 899 rubles.

multimeter Mastech M830B

The best multimeters with advanced functionality

To quickly check capacitors, transistors and other components of electrical circuits, special equipment is required. This section of the review contains multimeters with an expanded range of operating functions. Some increase in cost is justified by the expansion of capabilities; it is worth considering that some models are quite suitable for professional activities.

ELITECH MM 300

This multimeter is equipped with a special display rotation mechanism. This engineering solution simplifies the selection of the optimal position of the indicating device, taking into account the viewing angle. The rubberized pad provides a more reliable fixation of the multimeter compared to a retractable stand. In addition to semiconductor devices and resistances, this device can test capacitors and batteries.

Pros:

• the best indicators in combination of price and quality;
• movable display;
• reliable overload protection;
• protection of the housing from mechanical damage;
• wide range of operating temperatures (from -40°С to +50°С)
• advanced functionality for testing components of electrical circuits.

Minuses:

• According to user reviews, there are no significant shortcomings.

UNI-T UT33A

In this modification of the popular series of multimeters, the manufacturer installed a special platform for testing transistors. Once a measurement type has been selected, manual range selection is not required because the process is fully automated. An additional plus is the convenient shape of the case. For the sake of objectivity, it is necessary to note the disadvantages:

1. no saving of results;
2. no backlight.

In the UT33 series of multimeters, the basic equipment of different models differs significantly (indicated by the Latin letter in the name). This feature should be taken into account when choosing.

Pros:

• semiconductor components testing area;
• automated adjustment of the measurement range;
• presence of battery charge indication;
• ergonomic body.

Minuses:

• lack of screen backlight and “HOLD” key.

IEK Professional MY62

This compact device is protected from damage by a rubber damping cover. The economical liquid crystal display consumes a minimal amount of electricity. Additional battery savings are provided by automatic power off in standby mode. With the use of a specialized adapter, the basic capabilities of the multimeter are significantly expanded. The device is often used to test transistors and connect a thermocouple.

Pros:

• high-quality assembly;
• protective “bumper”;
• reliable fixation in the probe sockets;
• stylus quality;
• great functionality at a reasonable cost;
• automated shutdown of the autonomous power source.

Minuses:

• Capacitor capacity is measured only up to 20 µF.

Mastech MY-64

This multimeter is capable of reproducing 32 test technologies based on the selection of appropriate ranges. The main difference is the ability to measure the frequency of a sinusoidal signal with an error of no more than 2%. A separate button is installed to turn on the power. The shutdown is automatic after a 40-minute break has been logged. A critical decrease in charge is indicated by an icon on the screen. The electrical circuit provides overload protection. The display shows the polarity of the signal. The readings on the tester are clearly visible even with a significant deviation in the viewing angle.

Experts recommend purchasing a lithium battery suitable for this and some other multimeters. To ensure that the probes perform their functions flawlessly, the oxide film should be carefully removed from the working surfaces before use.

Pros:

• one of the best digital multimeters in terms of equipment and price;
• excellent measurement speed;
• presence of reboot indication (0L);
• minimal errors;
• reliable protection against impacts;
• reliable protection against erroneous user actions.

Minuses:

• manual adjustment of the measuring range.

Multimeters are an eternal topic, like love (selection of multimeters from Aliexpress and Yandex.Market)

Multimeters remain an ever-popular topic, as is the theme of love in the works of poets and musicians.

The secret here is simple.

They are used in everything from testing batteries to setting up the Large and Small Hadron Colliders.

The selection will consist of two conditional parts: the first part will contain “ordinary” multimeters of standard form and content.

And in the second part - “exotic” multimeters with an unusual shape or content.

Links to purchasing devices on Aliexpress and/or Yandex.Market have been added to the descriptions. Interestingly, on Chinese sites many goods are cheaper than the average price for the same goods in Russian stores. But thanks to price comparison services in Russian stores, you can sometimes find retail outlets where the price will be lower than the average and lower than the Chinese one.

Prices are approximate as of the date the collection was created and are subject to change.

In product links, the abbreviations AE (Aliexpress) and YAM (Yandex.Market) are used.

The simplest digital multimeter DT830B

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The DT 830B digital multimeter has become a “classic of the genre” thanks to its more than affordable price.

Its accuracy and capabilities cannot be called ideal, but for the vast majority of measurements in everyday life it will be quite sufficient.

Among the shortcomings of the basic model, it should be noted the absence of an audible alarm (buzzer) and, accordingly, a dialing mode.

In addition, the instrument can measure AC voltage, but cannot measure AC current.

One of the “pluses” is the presence of a mode for measuring microampere currents (measurement limit 200 μA).

By following the link to Aliexpress, you can, in addition to the basic model DT830B, find various variations of the device, for example DT830X (with a buzzer and meander generator, but without microcurrent measurement) and DT 838 (with a buzzer and temperature measurement, but also without microcurrent).

Price - approx. $4.5 on Aliexpress, and on average about 400 rubles on Yandex.Market.

Digital Multimeter DT9205A

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A more advanced, but also very inexpensive multimeter is the DT9205A.

This is already a more interesting model, with high functionality and wide limits for measuring electrical quantities.

This multimeter allows, among other things, to measure the magnitude of alternating current (not just voltage) and the capacitance of capacitors; and also shows a critical decrease in battery charge.

The disadvantages include the lack of display backlight and thin probe cables, which can simply melt at the maximum measured current of 20 Amps (change immediately).

The average price on Yandex.Market is about 700 rubles.

On Aliexpress you can buy a slightly modified model AN9502A+, which does not differ in anything fundamental. Price - about 600 rubles ($8.2); There is expedited delivery.

Digital Multimeter V7

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This digital multimeter is still a common one, but already well advanced.

It can show up to 5999 counts of the measured value (the previous one - up to 1999), has a display backlight, a rectangular pulse generator, and measurement of frequency, capacitance and temperature. All this is in addition to standard measurements (current, voltage, resistance).

There is an automatic measurement mode.

The disadvantages include the lack of testing of transistors.

The price on Aliexpress is about 1900 - 2200 rubles ($26-30) depending on the configuration; There is expedited delivery.

AN870 High Accuracy Digital Multimeter

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This multimeter has two features: focus on automatic measurements and increased accuracy.

As for the accuracy, the manufacturer claims it at a level of ±(0.05%+3 digit units) when measuring DC voltage. The maximum number of counts is 19999.

The device has almost all the “gentleman’s set” of functions inherent in high-end multimeters, including measuring frequency, capacitance and temperature.

Possible disadvantages include the lack of testing of transistors and a built-in square wave generator.

The price for Aliexpress including delivery is about 2800 rubles ($39), there is expedited delivery.

Pointer multimeters are now exotic

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The secret of the survival of good old dial multimeters is not in their price (it is not low at all), and not in the fact that retrogrades and obscurantists are devoted to them :). It is a psychological effect.

It lies in the fact that the human brain realizes the position of the needle of an analog device faster than it reads a bunch of numbers from the display of a digital device. And the brain realizes the sound of the arrow hitting the limiter even faster.

In this regard, when some crazy measurement accuracy is not required, pointer instruments turn out to be quite suitable.

Using the above link to Aliexpress, you can familiarize yourself with the Brother family of analog multimeters.

The most advanced device in this series (Brother HD-390D) has almost the same functions as a high-quality mid-range digital multimeter, incl. continuity testing, measuring alternating current and checking transistors.

Price - from 2000 to 2500 rubles ($26-34) depending on the model.

Large multimeter AN-888S

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This multimeter is more designed to work as a desktop device; but, thanks to its autonomous power supply, it can also be used as a portable one.

Dimensions - 200*135*105 mm, weight - 895 g.

The multimeter owes such dimensions, first of all, to the presence of a built-in Bluetooth speaker in the device (what a twist!).

In addition, it can be used as a clock and alarm clock (in this case, the power cannot be turned off).

As a multimeter itself, it is characterized as a device with high versatility and accuracy. The maximum number of counts is 19999.

The device is powered by two 18650 batteries. You can charge it from any 5 V / 2 A charger.

The price of this multimeter with truly exotic capabilities is from 4800 to 5900 rubles ($66 - $77) depending on the configuration.

618A, 618B, 618C Graphic Display Multimeters

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The graphic display of these multimeters is not as glamorous as that of smartphones. Here its role is simpler: it is an attempt to combine the properties of pointer and digital indicators “in one bottle.”

In other words, digital readings are supplemented by the image of a scale filled with strokes in accordance with the value of the measured parameter.

Only the older model, the 618C, has a color screen.

The device allows you to measure voltage, resistance, capacitance, frequency and detect hidden live wiring.

At the same time, it also has a significant drawback: there is no current measurement. At all.

Price - from 1200 to 1500 rubles ($16.8 - $20.5) depending on the model; There is expedited delivery.

Pen multimeter MS8211D

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This multimeter is made in the form of a thick pen.

Multimeters in this form factor are distinguished by their low weight and reduced dimensions in width (the length and thickness are ordinary).

But the capabilities of such devices are usually more modest than those of their full-sized counterparts.

In this regard, it is necessary to carefully weigh the pros and cons before purchasing such a device.

In particular, this device does not have a wide current measurement range: only up to 200 mA.

The maximum number of counts is 1999; there is continuity.

It is important not to confuse this multimeter with the MS8211 (without the “D” suffix), which does not measure current at all.

Price: about 1,500 rubles ($21).

Multimeters are the instruments from which any electrical and electronics business begins.

This selection cannot cover even 1% of the available offers on the market, but it can give an idea of ​​what options there are and what costs where.

There is a huge selection of multimeters at relatively low prices, and the user only needs to determine his requirements for the device.

A suitable application can be found for absolutely any of them, even for the simplest one.

For example, you can buy a medium or high-end device for home or work; and throw some cheap device at the dacha so that it will be there for a quick solution to occasionally arising problems.

Thank you all for your attention!

The best professional multimeters

TOP 4 of this section was compiled taking into account the assessments of experienced specialists. The best professional multimeter is determined not only by its feature set and accuracy. Maintaining the original parameters throughout long-term intensive use is essential.

Testo 760-1

Equipping with a large display increases the cost of the multimeter. However, in this case, it becomes possible to simultaneously display several measured parameters (for example, signal voltage and frequency). After turning on the power, the settings are performed automatically. Manual selection is only possible when monitoring two signals (DC/AC) simultaneously.

Pros:

• the best professional device;
• pulse counter, semiconductor device test, other additional functions;
• reliable overload protection;
• high sensitivity;
• simultaneous measurement of several parameters;
• setup automation.

Minuses:

• high price.

UNI-T 13-0047

In addition to basic functions, this device is capable of measuring root mean square indicators using the standard TRUE RMS algorithm. The large display with a resolution of up to 6000 is equipped with uniform backlighting. The body, narrowed in the central part, is convenient for a secure grip with one hand. Additional user manipulations are not needed, since the range settings are organized using an automated algorithm. A separate indicator notifies you when the multimeter batteries are critically low.

Pros:

• one of the best digital multimeters in the rating with advanced functionality;
• comfortable body;
• high build quality;
• it is possible to connect to a PC;
• convenient control;
• possibility of automatic selection of measurement limits;
• excellent combination of price and features;
• visual indication of data (service notifications).

APPA 97

This universal device is equipped with a thick casing to prevent damage from strong mechanical impacts. Automation performs several important functions:

1. adjusts the measurement range without user intervention;
2. reports misuse of sockets;
3. shows battery charge.

The inclusion of this multimeter in the State Register confirms the compliance of the parameters with current standards when performing official measurement procedures.

Pros:

• one of the best multimeters in terms of accuracy;
• very high quality display;
• light weight;
• high-quality automation of work processes;
• durability and reliability.

Minuses:

• lack of a signal generator.

Fluke 17B+

This multimeter correctly measures electrical resistance in the low resistance range. With its help, the parameters of capacitors are determined with an error of no more than 2% (electrolytic elements - up to 1000 µF). To activate the required range, you can use automatic or manual mode. The listed details confirm the professional purpose of the multimeter, but the final decision must be made after a detailed study of the accompanying documentation.

Pros:

• high-quality components;
• accuracy;
• high measurement speed;
• large display with wide viewing angle;
• good functional equipment.

Minuses:

• stand latch tight.

Finally, choose a budget multimeter with good functionality

Two years ago, a post was published testing multimeters. The price of the tested Fluke 87-V model starts from 40 thousand rubles, which for the average user is beyond reasonable limits, for which the author was naturally scolded. Moreover, some users reasonably noted that a DT 838 for 300 rubles would be enough to test the batteries. Thus, two poles of prices were covered, but whether there is something for intermediate money, but with good accuracy, remained unclear. If you're interested, let's take a look.

At my work I have at my disposal a good workhorse APPA 71 (Included in the State Register of SI under number: 25440-11 The certificate of inclusion in the State Register of SI is valid until: 03.21.21), costs about 5,000 rubles - an amateur can pull it off, but still a bit expensive. About four years ago I bought a DT9205A, which was incomparably better than the 838 version, but cost the same 300 rubles when ordering from China. About a year ago, I accidentally came across the AN8002 model - I was attracted by its tiny size, good functionality, high bit capacity (6000) and price of about 800 rubles. The device arrived and immediately pleased me with the quality of its workmanship. The equipment is minimalistic - a pair of probes, a thermocouple, a soft case. A month ago I saw the AN870 model with a bit depth of up to 19999 and a price of about 2000 rubles. Naturally, I couldn’t resist and ordered it too. The other day he also arrived and immediately pleased with the package: two standard probes, two wires with screw connections, four screw-in chips, two terminals, two sharp screw probes, four crocodiles, a thermocouple and a semi-hard case. An unpleasant nuance: the standard probes of both multimeters turned out to be very mediocre - during the short circuit test, the values ​​dangled from 0.1 to 0.8 Ohms, after which they went wild. Instead of standard probes, I had to use Chinese no-name, bought for 100-200 rubles. Here are these beauties:

The AN8002 supply voltage test showed the following results: the device confidently keeps readings at a supply voltage from 4V to 2.2V, below 2.4V the low battery indicator turns on, below 2.2V the device turns off. On the AN870, the low battery indicator lit up below 2.5V, and the device turned off when it reached 2.4V.

To test the accuracy of resistance measurement, a resistance store with a CDPV was used. The minimum step is 0.1 Ohm, the maximum value is 100 kOhm (to be precise, then 99999.9). Particular care was taken when switching limits - 200, 2000... for DT9205A and 600, 6000... in the case of AN8001. We get a relative error graph:

The DT9205A gives ten percent on the left side of the graph due to an error in the least significant unit of 0.1 Ohm. The following chart shows the area of ​​high resistance in a larger view:

DT9205A predictably loses the race, while Anengi unexpectedly becomes the leader. It is worth noting that the AN8001 values ​​after settling down for a couple of seconds do not change at all, which is a clear marker of the end of the measurements. In APPA 71 they dangle +-2 low-order units. AN870 values ​​reach the final value for more than five seconds, after which the numbers stand still. You have to pay for the capacity in time, which is not very surprising.

Voltage tests were performed using Agilent 34401 and 34410 benchtop instruments (multimeters) and Yokogawa 7651 (precision current and voltage source). The source readings were checked by the first device, which in turn was checked using a normal saturated X480 element. Since the temperature in the room was +28 instead of the required +20, for the sake of completeness of the experiment, a calibration graph of the dependence of X480 voltage on temperature was constructed:

The lines above and below the calibration curve show the permissible voltage range of the working element. Of course, the temperature shift is beyond the accuracy and even resolution of handhelds, but it is a check of the calibration of test devices. The older Agilent 34401 showed voltages of 1.018235 and 1.018238 in two different polarities, i.e. the average value is 1.0182365, Agilent 34410 showed 1.018253 and 1.018244, i.e. the average value is 1.0182485. Both average values ​​(two small stars near the Agilent signature) differ from the calibration curve by less than 10 µV, which is simply excellent - the X480 has an accuracy class of 0.005, i.e. deviation up to 50 µV is permissible. Multimeters in the 1V range have a tolerance of about 40 µV.

Below is a graph of the relative error of DC voltage measurement. In addition to AN8001 and AN870, Fluke 15b was tested, because APRA simply couldn’t be found (this happens at work).

On alternating current, the accuracy of both devices turned out to be no worse than 1%, but the proud inscription True RMS does not correspond to reality - when adding a stand to the sine, the readings did not change, i.e. measurements are taken through a capacitor.

The thermocouple included with the AN8002 showed 96 degrees in boiling water at a pressure of 740 mm Hg, which is not enough (by about three degrees), the AN870 thermocouple showed an honest 99 degrees. Model number AN8002 because This is the one that was purchased first for home, and it has a thermocouple input, unlike the AN8001.

Summary: both devices impressed with their accuracy, functionality and price at the same time, which is rare. The AN8001 is small enough to fit in your pocket, while the AN870 has the form factor of a full-size handheld. As a minus of the AN8001, we can note the automatic range switching - it is not always convenient, and some people are simply annoyed by it. However, its advantages allow us to safely include it in laboratory equipment. The AN870 does not have this drawback - it has both automatic and manual range switching. The price, 2.5 times higher than its younger brother, may scare off a simple radio amateur, but for a laboratory it is an excellent device for little money. The decision of which device to take, of course, remains with the buyer.

I’ll attach a link and a comment from mdn-tech about finishing the range selection in 8001: If it’s important, you can take it apart and do it. There are contacts on the board. cm.

In the comments there were examples with photographs - this somewhat interferes with possible comment threads. Please hide the pictures under a spoiler, give the price and at least briefly state why your options are better.

Which multimeter is better to buy

To determine which device is better, an accurate formulation of the initial requirements is necessary. For rare household use, an entry-level tester is quite suitable. Affordability is accompanied by limited functionality, average quality of materials, and low accuracy. However, to solve many typical problems it is quite enough to purchase a device with basic measuring parameters.

The above rating of the best professional-grade multimeters will help you choose a model for complex work operations. In this case, the initial investment is justified by reliability and long service life. For increased accuracy requirements, modifications with True RMS mode are purchased.