Finding the right multimeter with perfect accuracy, maximum resolution, and acceptable input impedance among hundreds of online options is not easy. Fluke multimeters are known for their accurate measurements, reliable performance, and ruggedness. Whether you are looking for a multimeter for electronics or automotive use, HVAC applications or DIY usage, aviation troubleshooting, or the best value for your money, our comprehensive guide has covered it all!
Keep reading for further details!
Table of Contents
Best Multimeter for Electricians – Fluke 117 True RMS
With its ability to handle high voltage and current values, the Fluke 117 Multimeter with the safety range of 600V in CAT III would be a perfect choice for electricians. The VoltAlert technology of this multimeter helps detect the ghost voltage and non-contact voltage and do your work quickly. The AutoVolt feature switches automatically between the AC and DC selection. It measures not only the current, voltage, and resistance but also capacitance, frequency, and continuity.
PROS
- VoltAlert feature is helpful for wire path detection behind the wall
- It is water-resistant.
- Backlight for low-lit areas.
CONS
- The absence of mA and uA makes it useless for electronics.
- The frequency measurement is limited to 50kHz.
User Reviews
With the 4.9 out of 5-star rating, the Fluke 117 is suggested for Electricians by most users. The dust proof, waterproof, build quality, safety, lightweight, and easy-to-use features helped make it an ultimate choice. Whereas, absence of the auto-hold or touch hold feature disappointed the users a little bit. Also, some users reported the backlight to be not as even as expected.
Best Automotive Multimeter – FLUKE-88-5 88V 1000V
If you are looking for an automotive multimeter with a big, easy-to-read, backlit display screen, Fluke 88-5 automotive multimeter will serve the purpose. Designed for use in the garage, this instrument has excellent response time. The measurements stabilize within a few milliseconds, and the continuity function works instantly. The multimeter can measure pulse width for fuel injectors in milliseconds and offers 0.1% DC accuracy. The auto-ranging feature automatically helps the multimeter adapt to your working range and saves a lot of time. Along with the AC/DC and voltage, frequency and resistance, it has an additional temperature measurement feature. It is safety rated for category III 1000V and Category IV 600V.
PROS
- You can hang it to a steel surface with a magnetic hanger for ease of use.
- The larger display.
- The accuracy of 0.1% make it the perfect choice for automotive professionals.
- Even if used for 2-4 hours daily, its 9V battery won’t need replacement at least for a year.
CONS
- A bit expensive
- No physical user manual is available
User Reviews
Rated 4.8 out of 5, its users call it one of the best automotive multimeters. One of the users has used the multimeter for 30 years without any problem. The phenomenal battery life, high precision measurements, and speedy stabilization have been winning the hearts of automotive professionals for decades. One of the users reported diminishing display after years of usage.
Best HVAC Multimeter – Fluke 116
Fluke 116 HVAC multimeter will help you accurately measure heaters’ electrical and mechanical components and air conditioners. Whether you have to troubleshoot the HVAC equipment or repair the flame sensor, its ability to measure temperature and microampere measurements has covered it all. Safety rated for category III 60V, the multimeter is handy to use because of its compact design and backlit 6000 counts display. The low input impedance feature takes care of the ghost voltage issue.
PROS
- Ergonomic design supports the single-handed operation
- Automatic AC/DC voltage detection is a plus
- It comes with a soft case
CONS
- There is no auto shut off feature available
- Its test leads are not very flexible
User Reviews
Its users found it helpful for HVAC equipment troubleshooting and repairing. The users recommended it for HVAC professionals because of its micro amp and capacitance measurement features. Though a bit pricey, it proved the best value for the buyer’s money. Some of the users reported issues with the temperature measurement and the flexibility of the test leads. The overall rating was 4.8 out of 5.
The Most Cost-Effective Multimeter – Fluke 101 Basic
Fluke 101 is contrary to your thoughts if you think fluke multimeters are expensive. It is a pocket-friendly multimeter with all the necessary basic features like the voltage, resistance, capacitance, and frequency measurement covered except current measurement. The user interface is clear, and the design is ergonomic. Its pocket-fit size i.e. 1.06×2.56×5.12 inches and lightweight i.e. 0.16kg are worth mentioning here. The 6000 counts are better than the other competing brands multimeters in the market.
PROS
- Portable and Lightweight.
- It It is an affordable multimeter.
- A good choice for electricians and technicians because of 0.5% DC accuracy.
CONS
- There is no stand at the back to rest it up.
- It doesn’t have the plastic rubber coating for safety.
User Reviews
We mostly found positive written and video reviews about this pocket-friendly, small yet powerful multimeter. Its portability, easy-to-use interface, and safety features help it slip into its users’ basic toolkits. Although the users wanted it to have current measurement and back-screen light, they still call it a good piece affordable. It has got a 4.7 stars rating out of 5 by its users.
Best DIY Digital Multimeter – Fluke 107
If you are looking for a small and accurate multimeter with a backlit display for DIY projects, go for Fluke 107. This palm-sized multimeter accurately measures frequency, AC/DC voltage and current, resistance, capacitance, duty cycle, and continuity. So, this one would be the best companion for your DIY things, be it installing the electronic devices or the normal wiring. It is category III 600V safety rated. It measures voltage up to 600V and current up to 10A with +/-0.5% accuracy. You can use its tri-fold magnetic strip at the back to pop it up for longer or to place it on your desk while working.
PROS
- The weight and size are perfect for carrying it with you to work.
- The leads that come with this multimeter have good quality.
- It has got all the basic measurements facility covered.
- Its magnetic strap to hold the multimeter for you is a plus.
CONS
- The continuity tone could be kept louder.
- It is not as robust as other fluke multimeters.
User Reviews
Rated 4.8 out of 5, it was said to be an exceptional basic multimeter by its users. They recommend it for DIY projects, automotive, or personal use. The reviewers have used it to troubleshoot and repair electrical issues, check damaged equipment, and diagnose losses due to broken wirings. Some users found the narrow display viewing angles.
Best Multimeter for Aviation – Fluke 115 True RMS
The Fluke 115 RMS, with its ability to give accurate measurements for non-linear loads, and the DC range of 200mA to 1A, is the perfect answer for electric circuits on aircraft. You don’t need to be frustrated anymore while figuring out why the aircraft’s wiring doesn’t seem to reflect the schematic diagram Your fluke 115 would help you find the answer. Safe to use in Category III, 600V environments, the 600 counts display would quickly verify continuity issues in wiring. Moreover, its operating temperature of -10 to 60 degrees Celsius, frequency and capacitance measurement, and diode testability will make it your tool of choice.
PROS
- It is versatile, accurate, and safe to use.
- Its lightweight, compact size, and portability make it easy to carry on your job.
- The selector and buttons are easy to use.
CONS
- Some of the viewing angles are washed out.
User reviews
One of the reviewers called it the most accurate multimeter they have ever owned, while the other called it worth the money spent. Its satisfied reviewers have used it for six years without any defect for aircraft engines with shaky AC-DC voltages, and it worked well for them. Though a few users complained about the narrow viewing angles of the display, it is a good choice for your aircraft assembling and troubleshooting otherwise.
Best Multimeter for Home Use – Fluke T5600 Electrical Voltage, Continuity and Current Tester
If you are looking for an easy-to-carry and user-friendly multimeter to repair your electrical appliances at home, consider this Fluke T5600. You can check voltage, current, and resistance with this compact multimeter. Its open jaw current reading ability will let you check the amperes on your appliances without circuit breakage. It is rugged enough to withstand a 3m drop, so you don’t need to worry if your little champ needs to participate in troubleshooting.
PROS
- It comes with an auto-switch between AC and DC.
- It is dust and water-resistant.
- The auto shut-off feature is a plus.
- The probe storage is at the back of the multimeter.
CONS
- The test leads are specific to this version.
- There is no backlight for the display screen.
User reviews
The best review of this multimeter was from a grandfather who used it himself for 18 years and then gifted the same model to his grandson for his troubleshooting needs. According to its reviewers, it is easy to use and a good value for money. They found the meter reliable in wet weather and tough conditions. The main issue its users faced is that the accessories for this multimeter are expensive, and the absent display backlight makes it difficult to use in low-lit areas. Still, the pros of this device outweigh the cons.
Best Multimeter for Electronics – Fluke 87V
The Fluke 87V is a jam-packed multimeter with helpful features for electronics professionals. You can measure current in milli and micro-amps that is a must requirement of electronics troubleshooting. Moreover, there is voltage measurement in millivolts, capacitance, resistance, frequency, conductance, temperature, and continuity measurement along with diode check; what else does an Electronic professional ask for? The switchable 6000-20,000 counts large display comes with a two-stage backlight for poor or no light situations. The multimeter is category III and category IV safe.
PROS
- Large screen and backlight allow 12m reading view.
- The accuracy and safety features are worth it.
- Reliable and sturdy construction.
- Best choice of multimeter for electronics troubleshooting.
CONS
- No case included
User Reviews
Its extremely satisfied users highly recommend it to electronics professionals because of its remarkable features. The reviewers commented that there is no substitute for the accuracy and quality of Fluke 87V. They found it maximum protected because of the two high-quality ceramic fuses on current circuits. Its CAT IV safety rating made it even helpful for underground installations. The only downside was no printed manual and case for the multimeter. It got a high rating of 4.9 out of 5 from its reviewers.
Best Multimeter for Mechanics – Fluke 233 Remote Display
If you are looking for a multimeter to let you monitor signals in hazardous industrial plants remotely, Fluke 233’s magnetic removable display makes it a perfect choice. There is a built-in thermometer to measure temperature and true-RMS AC voltage and current for non-linear signals. Moreover, the large backlit screen and the AC/DC voltage, capacitance, resistance, and continuity measurement features are there to make it a mechanic’s best friend.
PROS
- Its removable magnetic display can be used for up to 10m.
- additional temperature measurement feature.
- The Radio transmitter shuts off automatically when the screen attaches back.
- You can keep yourself safe from hazardous sites because of the removable screen.
CONS
- Youeed to buy a case for it as it doesn’t come with one.
- The screen is slightly large.
User Reviews
The biggest advantage its users had was that they didn’t need a second person to push buttons on the other side; the detachable screen made things easier. Also, according to one of the reviewers, this multimeter works well for hybrid vehicles and finding faults in hazardous areas. The users recommend it to mechanics as its removable screen decreases the number of arc flash exposures. The users rated it 4.7 out of 5.
How We Picked the Best Multimeters for This Article
While collecting and sorting the list of the nine best Fluke multimeters, we considered some must-have criteria to make your choice worth it.
- Auto Ranging feature to make sure the user doesn’t need to alter the voltage-current range manually.
- Extra measurement features the ability to measure capacitance, temperature, frequency, etc., so you don’t have to buy separate tools to make these measurements
- Accuracy in measurements to avoid ghost values and incorrect values
- The display screen size and backlighting These features help the user work easily and comfortably for long periods of time
- Safety rating We looked for a safety rating of at least category III to keep the user safe by minimizing the risk of arc flash inside the meter
- Ease of use Most people are familiar with the familiar interface of a Fluke multimeter and for those who are new to the world of Fluke, all their multimeters are easy to use with a very intuitive user interface
- Quality Build Robust and reliable construction so you don’t need to go out and buy a new multimeter every other month
Summary
Winding our writing up with the note that we have presented to you the list of 9 best fluke multimeters that contains the choices for all possible applications.
- Best multimeter for Electricians – Fluke 117 True RMS
- Best Automotive Multimeter – FLUKE-88-5 88V 1000V
- Best HVAC Multimeter – Fluke 116
- The Most Cost-Effective Multimeter – Fluke 101 Basic
- Best DIY Digital Multimeter – Fluke 107
- Best Multimeter for Aviation – Fluke 115 True RMS
- Best Multimeter for Home Use – Fluke T5600 Electrical Voltage, Continuity and Current Tester
- Best Multimeter for Electronics – Fluke 87V
- Best Multimeter for Mechanics – Fluke 233 Remote Display
Happy measuring!