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Multimeters vary in capabilities, but most models measure resistance, voltage, current, continuity, and other important aspects of electrical components. For those willing to DIY, using this tool can save you hundreds of dollars in the long run because you can diagnose and repair wiring problems on your own instead of paying an electrician to do so.
However, finding the best multimeter for you can depend on a variety of factors, including how often you use it and what the primary purpose is. Portable handheld multimeters that are only intended for measuring small voltages can be found for less than $20, however, durable models with a variety of readout options and a digital display can sometimes cost upwards of $200.
To help you narrow down your choices and find the best multimeter for you, we researched the best products on the market. Overall, our top choice for heavy-duty use is the Fluke Digital Multimeter that’s easy to use and has non-contact voltage detection. Read our buying guide below for more of our top picks. You can also find more important information and shopping for tools in our tools buying guide.
Top 7 Multimeters
- Best Multimeter Overall: Fluke Digital Multimeter
- Best Clamp Meter: Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter
- Most Versatile Multimeter: AstroAI Digital Multimeter
- Best Heavy-Duty: Milwaukee Digital Multimeter
- Best Basic Digital Multimeter: AstroAI Multimeter
- Best Analog Multimeter: Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter
- Best Value: Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter
Compare Top Multimeters
| Product | Display | Batteries | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fluke Digital Multimeter | Digital | AAA (x1) | 1.2 pounds |
| Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter | Digital | AA (x3) | 0.5 pounds |
| AstroAI Digital Multimeter | Digital | Lithium (x1) | 1.3 pounds |
| Milwaukee Digital Multimeter | Digital | AA (x2) | 1.4 pounds |
| AstroAI Multimeter | Digital | Lithium (x1) | 0.4 pounds |
| Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter | Analog | AA (x1) | 0.8 pounds |
| Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter | Digital | AAA (x2) | 0.5 pounds |
| Product | Display | Batteries | Weight |
Best Multimeter Overall
Fluke Digital Multimeter
- $225.59
- $281.99
- 20% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the Fluke Digital Multimeter?
Our team found that most users valued the durability of this digital multimeter. They also stated that it provided fast, consistent, and accurate readings. However, we encountered a handful of reviews in which users mentioned that the included instructions were unclear and some had issues with the screen being hard to read.
“Outstanding meter! The best I’ve owned in 20 years of using quality meters. I was immediately impressed by the hefty weight of the device, about one pound. This suggests long durability. The rubber case will protect the meter against all but the most severe drops. The kickstand angles the meter to 45 degrees, making it easy to read. In a nutshell, the meter physically says “quality” in every way I weigh that attribute.” — MikeM via Amazon
“I bought this having read the reviews mentioning the viewing angle being bad, and I assumed it was exaggerated or possibly an issue with past manufacturing that was fixed. That doesn’t seem to be the case. The screen is not great, certainly not unusable, but I find I generally must lay it flat rather than use the built-in stand or hanging it. I do not have experience with other digital multimeters, but I feel like the screen could be better.” — Zachary via Amazon
Best Clamp Meter
Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter
- $81.02
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the Klein Tools Digital Clamp Meter?
Several reviewers we found characterized this multimeter as well-made, as it provided accurate readings and was user-friendly. They also mentioned that the clamp was durable and rugged. However, some customers struggled to read the measurements on the multimeter’s screen, and others said the automatic shutoff activated too quickly.
“This one does everything I need: AC and DC voltage, AC amps, resistance, and even has a temperature probe. The only annoyance is it beeps at me if I haven’t used it in a while, but it then has auto-shutoff, so it doesn’t drain the batteries. It even captures peak amperage on a motor startup. The display is easy to read, and the functions and on/off are on a thumbwheel which is very easy to operate with the hand holding the instrument. Seems to be a quality instrument for a reasonable price.” — Doug Hansberry via Amazon
“I generally like Klein tools. My last meter was a klein, but admittedly it failed much faster than it should with falsely high DC voltages by about 50%. This one has a lot of features for the price. Issues: this one has the reverse display where the numbers are silver, and the background is black. As much as I like it, it’s hard to use outside. The biggest problem I have with it is the auto-off cuts it out in what seems like less than two minutes if you don’t spin the knob or press buttons. No good at all when troubleshooting something.” — meep via Amazon
Most Versatile Multimeter
AstroAI Digital Multimeter
- $35.99
- $42.99
- 16% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the AstroAI Digital Multimeter?
Despite its many features, several customers found this multimeter to be intuitive to use. Though it gave most users accurate readings, customers said that the manufacturer’s customer service team was responsive and helpful if theirs didn’t. Negatively, we did see some customers say that the tips of the leads were too small to fit into standard wall sockets, while some complained of inaccurate leads.
“…I have used the crap out if it, and it never disappoints. It has never failed or has given me any errors. It’s accurate. In fact, my previous employer required personal tools to be calibrated, such as torque wrenches, multimeters, digital calipers, etc. I sent this multimeter in, and it measured accurately on the calibration. No calibration or adjustment is needed. It was perfect out of the box. Very nice tool.” — Micah R. via Amazon
“I think I got some bad leads. When I try to check spark plugs I’m getting readings all over the place. I have to hold perfectly still to get a reading. I’m also noticing that when I touch the two leads together, I’m getting an expect initial uptick in resistance readings but also subsequently wildly varying numbers. Using it to test volts on hotlines, it jumps around wildly again and doesn’t really hold a number well. The meter has the ability to read very quickly, thus the changes in voltage, but the changes are in extreme levels that doesn’t exist with how AC works.” — Grumpy Dad via Amazon
Best Heavy-Duty
Milwaukee Digital Multimeter
- $205.81
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good for: Customers seeking a high-quality multimeter that can be used for their home or work.
What Are People Saying About the Milwaukee Digital Multimeter?
Our team found that customers who gave this product a positive review were pleased with its ease of use, durable construction, and accurate readings. However, some reviewers had issues with it not reading resistance properly, and others found that the rubber grip peeled too easily.
“Top-notch everything! The quality of the build and ease of use is wonderful, it’s a joy to use. I highly recommend it.” —Jason D. via Amazon
“I have been using my multimeter for a long time, a trusted part of my kit. I do love it with the exception of the rubber coating. The coating has failed completely and now is peeling/sticky… Using the multimeter now leaves rubbery flakes and shreds everywhere. If the coating wasn’t an issue, I’d give it 5 stars.” —Magnus M via Milwaukee
Best Basic Digital
AstroAI Multimeter
- $12.99
- $16.23
- 20% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the AstroAI Multimeter?
Our verified buyer research showed that most reviewers were impressed with the number of features that this multimeter offered, especially given its relatively low price point. Conversely, we found a minority of users that said while the multimeter read low voltages well, it struggled to produce accurate readings for higher voltages, and others said it didn’t hold up well over time.
“All I wanted was a multimeter to check DC and AC voltage and connectivity and this device more than delivers at an extremely low price. In addition to voltage, this unit measures current, resistance, continuity, diode, and square wave output. This is far more than needed/wanted at a very low price. My previous multimeter was very basic, but cost a whole lot more than this unit.” — James Y. via Amazon
“I bought this for general use. The one I had before would drain a 9v battery in a couple of days whether I used it or not. This one seems to have a great battery life, so yay for that, I guess. However, when I’m using it and switch between functions, it will get stuck on the last function used and I don’t always notice right away. Then obviously, I have to go back and double-check things, and that’s just not my idea of a multimeter that I can have confidence in. It did work ok when it was brand new.” — Fishman880 via Amazon
Best Analog Multimeter
Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter
- $16.85
- $25.39
- 34% off
Prices taken at time of publishing.
What Are People Saying About the Gardner Bender Analog Multimeter?
Our team discovered that, compared to a digital multimeter, customers appreciated the smooth, instant response from this analog device. Users also valued its compact, portable size. However, we also encountered a few reviews that indicated the device struggles to accurately test higher voltages, and others thought the probe was too short.
“Last time my multitester died, about 20 years ago, I bought a digital model. Hey, I love high tech for many products, but in this case, I missed Old Reliable analog output. Maybe not as precise as digital, but plenty precise enough for my needs. and just a more stable readout…. Other huge pluses with this model: it takes one AA battery, not a more expensive 9V. It’s smaller and easier to carry and store than my digital multitester. It performs all the basic functions I need in testing battery strength, circuit power, and resistance.” — Hal Lancer via Amazon
“My one complaint is that the probe tips are really short, and a thick plastic color right behind the tip means you can’t easily probe two spots close together (like adjacent pinholes on a computer connector).” — Joe Marfice via Amazon
Best Value
Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter
- $34.97
Prices taken at time of publishing.
Good for: Homeowners looking for a medium-level multimeter that can handle nearly any home project.
What Are People Saying About the Klein Tools MM325 Multimeter?
We found that customers who gave this multimeter good reviews generally liked that it produced consistent, accurate readings, had a bright display, and its compact, but durable design. On the other hand, some others disagreed about the display, feeling it was hard to read. One customer also had a problem with the automatic shutoff of the backlight.
“I’ve tested most [of] the functions (AC/DC voltage, DC Amps, resistivity), and they’ve been accurate and easy to locate. I also like the compact size and weight, which feel better to me. The brightness of the backlight is exactly what you would expect. There are two small features that stand out because it shows that even though a professional would enjoy this product, it’s also made for the novice: First are the small lights where the lead wires are connected. The lights turn on depending on what you select, so you don’t confuse DC Amps for AC Amps. Second, the fuses to replace when you accidentally go over on the amps are located under the batteries and are accessible by removing one screw. “ —Steven via Amazon
“The display is a total fail. The angle at which you view the display is critical; you must look directly at the display or up at it — if you look down from above the meter, the display is invisible. I’ve never seen [an] LCD display this bad…. There is no way to disable the auto-off feature of the backlight, this is irritating. I can afford batteries, why not give me a disable for the auto-off on the backlight like you did with the auto-off disable for the entire meter?” — Mark Christopher via Amazon
What To Know Before Buying a Multimeter
A basic multimeter is a worthy addition to any tool bag. Before you buy one, our team thinks you should consider several different factors to select the right electrical tester for your needs. First, you’ll need to understand the differences between a digital and an analog multimeter. From there, look at the various sizes to see how big of a device you need.
After you’ve chosen your type and size, you can start examining specific features such as the multimeter’s voltage testing capability, resistance and continuity measuring, and battery. Read our buying guide below for more information on how to choose the best multimeter for your home.
What are the different types of multimeters?
Most multimeters have a digital display, but there are some analog versions available.
- Analog: This type of multimeter has a measurement chart built into the display. When you’re testing an item, a needle points to the proper measurement on the chart. Analog multimeters are more difficult to read and require a manual range, but they’re usually more affordable.
- Digital: Digital meters display the results of your test on an LCD screen, making it easy to read and typically feature auto-ranging, which helps save time and makes for more accurate measurements. Digital multimeters are likely a better option for beginners.
What size multimeter should you buy?
The size of a multimeter affects its function.
- Bench/box: This is the type of multimeter that electricians, engineers, and serious hobbyists use. They have more ports and settings to test more items.
- Handheld: This is the most common type of multimeter. It has a rectangular shape with three ports and a setting dial. Since handheld multimeters have all of the measurement capabilities you need for around-the-home use, we included this type in our review.
- Pen: You can hold a pen-shaped multimeter in one hand, It has a single test probe for non-contact voltage detection for AC/DC voltage, limiting its functionality.
How does voltage testing work in a multimeter?
Every multimeter should be able to test voltage. You should have the option to change the amount of voltage as well as switch between AC and DC voltages. Your outlets use AC voltage, while your computers and some other devices use DC voltage.
Do multimeters test resistance and continuity?
Your multimeter should also be able to test ohm, which measures continuity versus resistance in a circuit. For example, if you’re testing a broken wire that doesn’t have current passing through it, your resistance measurement should say “infinite.” On the other hand, if you’re testing a properly functioning wire, your resistance measurement is going to be low.
What other measurements can multimeters test?
Some multimeters measure more than just voltage and resistance. You can also find models that test for temperature, current, diodes, transistors, and other measurements.
Multimeter Components
Multimeters are useful tools, but you may be wondering exactly how they work. Here are some of the most important components of a multimeter that help it operate:
- Display: The display is located on the front of the tool. It’s either digital on digital devices or quartz crystal on analog devices. It typically has a backlight and can display both numbers and letters.
- Dial: This knob is usually located in the center of the device. You can turn it left or right to change the measurement settings.
- Ports: These are located on the front of the multimeter. There’s one port that’s labeled “common” or “COM,” which is where you connect the negative side of the probe. You can also find a “positive” port that’s used for voltage measurements.
- Wires: Multimeters come with at least one red and one black wire. One end of the wire attaches to one of the ports on the multimeter, and the other end attaches to the item you’re testing.
- Probes: The probes are the ends of the wire that attach to the item you’re testing. Multimeters usually come with several probes that you can change depending on what attaches best to the item you’re measuring. One common type of probe is an alligator clip.
Frequently Asked Questions About Multimeters
How do I know if I can test a particular item with my multimeter?
The multimeter’s maximum and current voltage ratings should be greater than the voltage of the item you plan to measure. If you use a multimeter with a voltage that isn’t greater than the item’s voltage, you risk breaking the multimeter or shocking yourself.
How much do multimeters cost?
The cost of a multimeter is mostly tied to its size. A smaller pen-shaped model costs about $25–$40. Depending on how many settings it has, a handheld one costs $100–$200. Finally, a bench or box multimeter can cost upwards of $1,500.
What do the black and red colors of the probe wires mean?
When you’re measuring volts, a black wire usually indicates “ground,” “common,” or “negative,” while a red wire usually indicates “live.” You don’t have to follow these guidelines when you’re measuring current, but it’s safer to do so to ensure that you don’t mix up the wires when you go to measure voltage.
Do I need to maintain my multimeter?
You don’t have to clean your multimeter, but we recommend storing it in a safe place. Most multimeters come with a carrying case for an added layer of protection. If you have a digital multimeter, note that you need to replace its battery every so often.
How We Selected the Best Multimeters
To provide our readers with the best multimeter recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of multimeters with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, learned from subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published numerous tool reviews, from cordless drills and impact drivers to tape measures and laser levels.
Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.
Questions or Comments?
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