A Guide to Finding the Best Voltage Tester in The Market
Sometimes your appliances fail to work. Or you experience short or open circuit. When you want to check on fuses of your car amplifier for example; the uses are so many. What you need is a multimeter. This, you will use, to check for voltage, resistance, and current. The more advanced ones can measure even capacitors and frequencies. It all depends on what your needs are and your budget at hand.
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** Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews by click in "Reviews" column, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.com.
What is A Multimeter?
Also called a multitester or a VOM (Volt-Ohm-Milliammeter), it is an electronic measuring instrument which uses several measurement functions and combines them into one unit. Typically, a VOM measures resistance, voltage, and current. An analog multimeter usually has a moving pointer to display the readings. A digital VOM (DMM or DVOM) combine several tasks into one. A number of other features were also put into places like the display screen and buttons in place of the pointer and tuning buttons. The first was made in 1977, in a bid to increase reliability and accuracy and since then, it has all been digital for the multimeters.
The DMM usually features a screen display where readouts can be viewed. Buttons for selecting various operations, although they vary with models. A rotary switch for selecting primary measurement value- ohms, amps, volts. Input jacks where test leads are inserted. The input jacks, also known as test leads, are flexible insulated wires. Red is for positive while black for negative. They serve as the conductor from the DMM to the item being tested. The probe tips for testing circuits.
‘Counts' is used to describe the DMM's resolution. This is how fine the meter can make a measurement. This will help a technician to determine the possibilities of a slight change in the measured signal.
Before using any electrical test equipment, always first refer to the user manual for proper operating procedures, safety, and limits. Each use with a digital multimeter poses a potential hazard that must be considered when taking electrical measurements.
Benefits of a DMM
The benefits of a digital multimeter are numerous. Here are a few that are the most important, especially when you do not know what look for, as operations and properties vary.
- They can be used in testing diodes, capacitors, and transistors, with the more advanced measuring frequency.
- The LCD screen ensures that accurate reading is made. This reduces reading and interpolation errors.
- There is a reduction in cost, power requirement, cost and size since the integration of several circuits.
- It has an auto polarity function. You can place the probes into the opposite polarities and to get a negative output. Parallax errors are eliminated so that you get the same value.
- It has no moving parts making it free from wear and shock failures.
- They are of a portable size and can be carried everywhere.
- Some have microprocessors and can store readings for further processing.
Top 5 Best Voltage Tester in Market with Reviews
Fluke 323 True-RMS Clamp Meter
This digital clamp meter measures AC current to 400 amp, AC/DC voltage to 400V and resistance to 4 kilohms. Accurate readings are provided when measuring linear or non-linear loads irrespective of a waveform. The jaw opening measures AC/DC current in a conductor up to 30mm. It has an audible continuity sensor that confirms that the circuit is conducting electricity. This product meets IEC standard 61010-1 and is rated for CAT IV installations (300V) and CAT III installations (600V).
This was designed to perform in tough environments and provide noise-free reliable results. The true-RMS and optimized ergonomics make the best general trouble- shooting tool best suited for both commercial and residential electricians.
(Image source: www.amazon.com)
Pros
- It has an alarm that beeps in cases of a short or open circuit.
- It has a small size that can fit inside a bag or a tool box; to carry wherever.
- Has a two-year warranty.
Cons
- They have faulty leads that do not settle even with extreme pressure.
- Quite costly.
Tacklife CM01A Digital Clamp Meter Auto-ranging Multimeter
Warrantied for 24 months, this true RMS clamp multimeter measures voltage to 600V, current to 400A and has up to 4000 counts displayed on LCD. The jaw opening measures AC/DC current in a conductor up to 26mm. Tacklife meets IEC standards 61010-1 and 61010-2-03; with CAT III installations (600V).
For an affordable price, this gadget will measure the typical voltage, current, and resistance. In addition, it will also include capacitance, frequency duty cycle, and diode test. It also has a hold mode, a zero mode, pollution degree II, auto power off and the duty cycle. This makes it very versatile as a general use multimeter.
The package includes, apart from the multimeter, 3 triple A batteries, a user manual and a test lead. The NCV detection and live line test is very active. For instance, when detecting AC voltages of between 90V to 1000V or live wire, the sound and light alarm become active at the same time.This Dependable tool safely measures voltage, resistance, and current, handling AC/DC voltages of up to 600V.
(Image source: www.amazon.com)
Pros
- Very affordable
- Very easy to use for a first time user
- Feels solid and sturdy when using
- Comes with a pouch and probe plastic protectors to ensure they do not get rusted
Cons
- Has no Max/Min memory on the non-contact ammeter.
- Does not take stable readings from a car battery.
OCDAY ACM03 Auto Range Multimeter
Designed according to IEC1010-1 and IEC1010-2-032. It is designed to measure AC/DC current, AC/DC voltage, resistance, capacitance, frequency, diode, and circuit. It has up to 3999 counts on LCD screen with an analog bar display. It is rated CAT III installation (600V).
Not only does it have a 12month warranty, but also a lifetime support guarantee. Best recommended using in the factory, school labs, home hobby and machine repair.
(Image source: www.amazon.com)
Pros
- Has a hard rubber coating that protects the device.
- Backlit display.
Cons
- The screen turns off too fast, by itself.
- The leads are made with very stiff cheap plastic that could easily break.
KET Digital Multimeter
This Dependable tool safely measures voltage, resistance, and current, handling AC/DC voltages of up to 600V. It is also reliable to use in automotive support.
It is made of high-quality plastic to ensure that it does not damage when it falls. Being safe and easy to use, it is designed for both professional work, and do-it-yourself around the house works. It provides accurate and reliable results. It is featured with a clamp, a data hold key, easy access trigger, non-contact voltage detection and back-lighted key. This multimeter is completely safe to use, easy and durable design. This model does not require batteries to function. The non-contact voltage detection feature ensures that no circuits are broken and no wires are stripped.
(Image source: www.amazon.com)
Pros
- Has a 3 months warranty.
- Is very affordable.
- Easy to use- comes with a complete set of features that are easy to operate.
Cons
- The test leads are shorter than the normal length.
Amprobe AM-530 TRMS Electrical Contractor Multimeter
All Amprobe play products have been rigorously tested to guarantee performance to specifications, safety, and reliability. Certified for category III installations (600V), the product meets IEC safety standard 61010.This product measures voltages up to 600V AC/DC. It also measures AC/DC current and resistance.
This true RMS measures voltage and currents in all environment types, even noisy places which are affected by harmonics. It is featured with inbuilt backlight system and non-contact voltage detection. It also has the diode test and duty cycle applications for troubleshooting purposes. The Amprobe multimeter is best suited for electronic operations like installation and troubleshooting of electrical wiring, motor maintenance and installation and analysis and troubleshooting of other electrical loads.
(Image source: www.amazon.com)
Pros
- It is very solid and easy to use.
- Very affordable.
Cons
- Replacement fuses are not found in the market.
- The stand does not lock properly and is dependent on gravity to maintain balance.
Verdict
For a more professional task, the Fluke 323 True-RMS Clamp Meter is a very reliable multimeter. It is worth the price. The only downfall is the lead plugins that can be replaced by others from the market. Otherwise, for a much lenient task model, the OCDAY ACM03 Auto Range Multimeter is the better option. Apart from being made with safety in mind, it is easy to use and can even be used for learning purposes. This should also mean that it is made from strong materials and does not have a complex structure.
Tacklife CM01A Digital Clamp Meter Auto-ranging Multimeter is a general purpose that gets a 5star rating without fail. It is versatile, durable and easy to use. It is also quite affordable and comes with a 24 months warranty. It is a cheaper version of the Fluke 323 True-RMS Clamp Meter, but with even vast uses. Whatever the case, you can only choose one that suits your needs and pocket.
