In November, I will be teaching a really basic class on how to use a digital multimeter (DMM) at the Ann Arbor District Library, which is setting up a Maker space in the library. Not only are they setting up the Maker space, they plan to loan out some basic test equipment, such as DMMs and oscilloscopes.
When they asked me, “Are there specific DMMs and oscilloscopes you would recommend we get?” I first thought of the Fluke 87-V. It’s a professional-quality DMM, but I nearly choked when I saw the price. It costs nearly $400! I searched around Amazon a little more and found the Fluke 115. This seems like a reasonable price for a reasonably-featured and rugged DMM.
Next, I searched Tequipment.Net for their “top-selling” multimeters and two other options popped up:
- BK Precision 2709B Auto Ranging True RMS Tool Kit DMM ($90).
- Extech 330 Auto-Ranging Multimeter ($53).
The Extech is not a true RMS meter and seems a bit “cheaper” from the looks of it, but at about half the price, it might be a good option.
What do you think? What other models should I be looking at?
Luke Williams - AE5AU says
I purchased an Extech EX330 a few years ago and have carried it with me in my portable tool bag that stays in my car trunk most of that time. It has held up well.
I don’t do a lot of AC work that needs true RMS, so that didn’t really both me much. I mostly work on <48V DC stuff including micro-controller projects. I was drawn to it partly because it included duty cycle, frequency, and capacitance measurements at a good price.
The one feature that I do wish it included is min and max hold.
RickB says
I have a Extech 430 that I’ve had for about 8 years now. It does all the standard stuff plus capacitance, frequency, duty cycle and temperature measurements. Says it’s “True RMS”. It’s served my needs so far.
I also own an Owon Digital oscilloscope, 100MHz, 2 channel, It has 8″ TFT display, It even comes with manual displayable on the screen. The included USB port allows attachment to your PC for more complex measurements. At $400 it’s a real bargain. My only regret is not getting the optional internal battery pack.
Bob K0NR says
I have an Extech EX330 in my collection of DMMs. I was looking for a quality meter that I could recommend to radio hams and hobbyists. I chose this one based EEVBlog review:
http://www.eevblog.com/2010/06/04/eevblog-91-50-multimeter-shootout/
grantbob says
Another good review of the sub $50 meters (a bit more recent) also found on EEVblog forums.
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCYVMnw_W7-Rq-yJk80vprug/playlists
Mike K8XF says
A few months ago I decided to get a high quality DMM. After careful consideration and searching, I chose the Fluke 115. It had all the qualities that I required. I still have a few other cheepie DMMs. The Fluke didn’t cost $400 plus–it was around $130, I think. DMM’s that cost 400 way too expensive and the precision/added features will never be used by the average Ham.
I also have my old analog Simpson 260, a classic that is built like a tank.
Paul KK4PTV says
IMHO, especially for a beginner’s class, the Extech 330 should be more than adequate. I got one a couple years ago because it could read temp and capacitance and frequency in addition to all the basics. Good luck in your new endeavor.
I recommend the Rigol 1052E 50 MHz scope ($300) or the 100 MHz model for $400.
Neil McGrath says
I bought a new budget DMM about a year ago and am very pleased with it. The meter is a Vichy VC97. The same model appears to be sold under a number of different brand names. My only criticism is that the display does not have a back light.
Follow this link for a full review.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dmEr1d2xs_c
I do feel that if you are considering an expensive multimeter then you have to be prepared to pay for regular calibration.
Walter Underwood K6WRU says
I would choose the one I still have, a Fluke 75. Never missed the RMS measurement, but auto-off would be really nice. I only replace the battery when I’ve messed up and left it on.
So get a modern meter with the same features as the Fluke 75, plus auto-off.
Jeff says
I’ve owned the Fluke 115 for several years, it’s a great reliable DMM.
k8gu says
For tinkering, homebrewing, and radio repair projects, I’ve been very happy with a $10 no-name BY DMM I picked up at a hamfest 15-20 years ago. I’m not afraid to blow it up, lose it, forget it, etc. I’m probably going to get a Fluke 115 in the next year or two because I need another meter around. But, if I were in your shoes, I would buy a whole bunch of cheap meters. Students have a habit of blowing things up or walking off with your stuff.
Wzrd1 says
While dated, I’m currently looking into replacing my venerable Fluke 77, my second unit after my original (back when the 20 amp current tap was unfused) model had the wafer switch die. It’s not gotten fairly dotty and I’m down to another old B&K unit that really isn’t as impressive.
My first DMM was a Beckman 310, which is sorely missed, with its 22 meg input impedance. Blasted elastomeric connector gave up and Beckman had moved on…
w0it says
Well, my cheap Extech MN35 is dead. Its not the fuse. I think its about 6 years old, but I am not sure. I have been using another one much of the time. Its hard to know which came first.
I have my father’s KIngdom Model KD-55C . It was junk 30+ years ago with really inaccurate measurements, but it still works sort of. Its display is going.
I am looking for a new one. I would like one that turns itself off and/or uses AA batteries. I go through too many 9v, batteries.