Best Multimeter Under $100 in 2023 — Buyers Guide, Review, and Comparison
Choosing a multimeter in the sub-$100 category satisfies two requirements — owning a machine that can tackle an absolute multitude of applications while still remaining within the budget of most home users. Typically delivering more features than pocket-friendly units — such as temperature measurement, auto-ranging as standard, and elevated durability — these multimeters offer pro-grade capabilities but not at the premium price-point of high-end models.
- Includes carry case.
- Withstands drops to 6.6 feet.
- Swift battery and fuse replacement.
Best Multimeter under $100
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | DETAILS | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
|
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Best Compact
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Klein Tools MM600 Review Klein Tools MM600 Review | |
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Best Easy Operation
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Features
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Check Price at Amazon Amprobe AM-530 Review Amprobe AM-530 Review | |
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Best Digital
|
Features
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Check Price at Amazon Mastech MS8209 Review Mastech MS8209 Review | |
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Best Lightweight
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Features
|
Check Price at Amazon Fluke 101 Review Fluke 101 Review | |
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Best Dual Temperature
|
Features
|
Check Price at Amazon Extech EX330 Review Extech EX330 Review | |
|
Best Dual Temperature
|
Features
|
Check Price at Amazon Fluke 106 Review Fluke 106 Review |
Good for
Since they’re digital, almost all of these devices come with screens that show exact numbers, decreasing the chance of misreading the measurement to a minimum. Most models also have the so-called Auto Polarity function which prevents the user from accidentally choosing the incorrect polarity. It’s yet another thing that helps in providing the user with a more accurate reading, and something that makes these devices genuinely invaluable.
Not Good for
Unfortunately, just like all other digital multimeters, these also tend to record errors in cases of dramatic transients and fluctuations. They also have a limitation on voltage, which, once it’s exceeded, can bring serious damage to the tool.
Even though they’re a lot better than the models that cost less than $50, these devices still aren’t as sophisticated as their more expensive cousins. They’re very useful, but just don’t bring as many modes and options as the multimeters sold for $150-200.
Top Rated Multimeters Under $100
There are plenty of multimeters on the market nowadays, which is a good thing because you’re able to have a choice. However, finding a perfect multimeter for your needs isn’t an easy task. There are a few factors you should pay attention to before opting for one particular product. All of these units have one thing in common – a price under $100. However, not all of them are the same. In fact, some multimeters offer more features than others, while others offer a better quality or a higher resolution. It’s all about your personal preferences.
As you can see, the main element in this group of products is the affordability. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a professional or an amateur; you’ll certainly find these multimeters useful and worth having. In fact, everyone should have at least one meter in their household because it can sometimes save money and most importantly – time. In other words, you don’t have to call a repairer and wait for the intervention. Instead, you can do it yourself with the help of one of these multimeters. Take a look at these short reviews and see if you find something of interest to you.
Our Rating: 4.6/5
Boasting a hefty 1000-volt testing capacity, incorporating a multitude of features, and incredibly durable — the MM600 is perhaps the ultimate sub $100 unit in the market.
Whether you’re a seasoned pro or an extreme home electronics nut, this multimeter is as suited to industrial and commercial settings as it is for residential applications. An ability to test resistance, current, capacitance, frequency, continuity, and duty cycles means a remarkably versatile machine. Furthermore, a temperature feature allows you to investigate heat levels from zero through to 1000 degrees Fahrenheit.
An included carry pouch, reinforced casing, and a 6.6-foot drop protection provide reassuring robustness — making it appealing to the more rigorous of users. And, incorporating an auto-range feature, this machine relieves the headaches of pre-project setting and calibration.
Pro-users may welcome that this multimeter is safety rated for CAT IV 600-volts and CAT III 1000-volts — not only allowing you to use the unit on commercial sites, but also providing a large enough range for industrial applications.
Driven by just two AAA cells, this multimeter is pleasingly lightweight. And, should they begin to drop in power during operation — a clear low-battery indicator provides a welcome early warning system. Thankfully, an easily accessible fuse and battery compartment enables swift and effortless replacement — saving you downtime and dollars if you’re a pro contractor.
And, if you’re as impatient and enthusiastic as me when it comes to new tools — you’ll be pleased to know that this machine comes complete with everything you need to get started immediately. It arrives with testing leads, two batteries, ‘gator clips, and a thermocouple with an adaptor.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
As far as the features go, the most useful function is the data hold and relative conversion. The data hold feature is pretty self-explanatory. It helps if you can’t write down the data on a piece of paper immediately after conducting the analysis. In simpler words, it saves your last reading until you overwrite it with a new one. The relative conversion doesn’t seem as impressive, but it’s still very useful. It allows you to zero the meter with a push of a button, instead of turning it off and on every time you need to reset the unit. It has a neon-style backlight which is great because it allows you to use this tool in dark environments.
The over range protection is great for inexperienced users. Many people have troubles when it comes to selecting the proper range, and most of these units cannot tolerate massive fluctuations. There are two fuses integrated into the circuit board, to prevent the high amperages from breaking the unit. Instead, the fuses blow off, and you can replace them easily.
As far as the price goes, it’s quite affordable, considering the number of additional functions. There aren’t many downsides, but they should still be mentioned. A couple of users didn’t like the timer of the backlight, which is only 10 seconds. One could argue that they could have designed it to last at least 20 seconds.
As far as the features go, the most useful function is the data hold and relative conversion. The data hold feature is pretty self-explanatory. It helps if you can’t write down the data on a piece of paper immediately after conducting the analysis. In simpler words, it saves your last reading until you overwrite it with a new one. The relative conversion doesn’t seem as impressive, but it’s still very useful. It allows you to zero the meter with a push of a button, instead of turning it off and on every time you need to reset the unit. It has a neon-style backlight which is great because it allows you to use this tool in dark environments.
The over range protection is great for inexperienced users. Many people have troubles when it comes to selecting the proper range, and most of these units cannot tolerate massive fluctuations. There are two fuses integrated into the circuit board, to prevent the high amperages from breaking the unit. Instead, the fuses blow off, and you can replace them easily.
As far as the price goes, it’s quite affordable, considering the number of additional functions. There aren’t many downsides, but they should still be mentioned. A couple of users didn’t like the timer of the backlight, which is only 10 seconds. One could argue that they could have designed it to last at least 20 seconds.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
People who bought this particular unit say it’s everything they ever wanted. It packs a bunch of additional options such as the non-contact voltage detection (NCV), backlit LCD with a bar graph, auto power off, low battery warning, and more. As you can see, there is more than enough features for you to safely measure, troubleshoot, and repair electrical devices and even sensitive electronics found on modern circuit boards.
One of the greatest options this product has to offer is the data hold function. The concept is pretty simple. Many times people don’t have the opportunity to write down the readings or make notes. Well, the data hold function alleviates the problem by preserving the last reading. It helps a lot in certain situations and saves time and effort. The feature that makes this unit suitable for beginners is the auto-sensing system. While many other multimeters need to be calibrated by the user, this one doesn’t. Auto-sensing enables the meter to identify the input and set up the correct mode.
The thing we didn’t like about this product is the shortness of the probe ends. People are used to using half-inch long lead ends, and these came as an unpleasant surprise. Luckily, the problem is easily solvable. If you don’t like the default leads, feel free to buy an additional pair, they’re pretty cheap.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
The most interesting part of this particular unit is the data hold function. Because it’s more of a “luxury” feature, it’s pretty unusual that the company decided to integrate it in this basic version. Regardless, it’s a very useful yet simple option. All it does is store the last reading until you overwrite it with new data. It helps a lot if you don’t have the opportunity to write down the readings right away.
The auto power-off function is another great thing, especially for prolonging the battery life. It works on a simple principle by turning off the device after 20 minutes of inactivity. As you can see, the simple things are always the most useful ones, and that’s what makes this product worth checking out. Because it’s so simple and straightforward, anyone can use it, even people who never had contact with these types of tools.
The thing we didn’t like about it is the fact that it’s not made in the US. Although Fluke is an American brand, they have factories in Asian countries such as China and Vietnam for economic reasons. While they claim that the quality is the same, many people don’t believe them. Our impression is that there are some minor differences between the original Fluke products and the ones made in Asian countries.
The most interesting part of this particular unit is the data hold function. Because it’s more of a “luxury” feature, it’s pretty unusual that the company decided to integrate it in this basic version. Regardless, it’s a very useful yet simple option. All it does is store the last reading until you overwrite it with new data. It helps a lot if you don’t have the opportunity to write down the readings right away.
The auto power-off function is another great thing, especially for prolonging the battery life. It works on a simple principle by turning off the device after 20 minutes of inactivity. As you can see, the simple things are always the most useful ones, and that’s what makes this product worth checking out. Because it’s so simple and straightforward, anyone can use it, even people who never had contact with these types of tools.
The thing we didn’t like about it is the fact that it’s not made in the US. Although Fluke is an American brand, they have factories in Asian countries such as China and Vietnam for economic reasons. While they claim that the quality is the same, many people don’t believe them. Our impression is that there are some minor differences between the original Fluke products and the ones made in Asian countries.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
One of the most impressive functions is the non-contact AC voltage detector, also known as NCV. It allows you to detect small AC voltages by hovering over an electrical source. The LED indicator and an audible beep will notify you whether a field of current is present around the object you’re analyzing. It also has the data hold function which allows you to store the last reading if you don’t have a piece of paper to write it down.
The auto power off feature is also useful because it saves battery by turning the device off. Many people forget to turn their tool off after use, and that leads to unnecessary battery replacements and additional expenses. The Extech EX330 comes with the test leads and a protective holster included, which is pretty rare.
The thing we noticed right away is the massive 4000 count display. Many people eagerly waited for a product like this because of the size of its display. A lot of professionals have troubles with reading small numbers in a hurry, and that leads to crucial errors. Well, you’ll certainly distinguish the numbers on this unit. The users are very pleased with this product, especially because of its versatility and durability. The sturdy casing design guarantees a long life, as long as you follow some simple maintenance rules. The temperature reading capabilities go from -4 to 1382 degrees Fahrenheit.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
Please note: This model has been updated and is now called Klein Tools MM600.
If you’re looking for a compact multimeter with a neat set of functions, this might be the right one for you. It has an auto-ranging function built-in as well as an analog bar graph. The unusual thing about it is that it measures AC and DC voltages up to 1000V, whereas many conventional multimeters have a range up to 600V.
The display is equipped with a backlight, meaning you can use this unit in dark environments as well. Purchasing the Klein Tools MM1000 also gets you the thermocouple for measuring the temperatures. Its design is impressive; it has a rubber casing which makes the device drop proof. The ribs on the side of the casing facilitate a stronger grip as well. As far as the durability goes, this unit is the most durable out of these five models we’ve reviewed.
Due to its vast number of auxiliary functions, it’s also suitable for hardcore professionals who use these tools on a daily basis. However, because of its ease of use, it’s also good for people who simply want to widen up the inventory in their toolboxes. You can also test diodes and continuity with this multimeter.
There is a 440mA fuse inside the unit, which prevents failures due to sudden changes in current intensity. In other words, you’ll only have to replace the fuse instead of having to buy the whole unit again if you push the meter over its limits. Although it doesn’t happen often, it’s still great, especially if you’re a beginner or you never had to deal with these instruments. People seem to like this unit as it holds a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, which is quite impressive. The only downside we could find is that it’s not made in the United States as stated, but rather in Korea.
Please note: This model has been updated and is now called Klein Tools MM600.
If you’re looking for a compact multimeter with a neat set of functions, this might be the right one for you. It has an auto-ranging function built-in as well as an analog bar graph. The unusual thing about it is that it measures AC and DC voltages up to 1000V, whereas many conventional multimeters have a range up to 600V.
The display is equipped with a backlight, meaning you can use this unit in dark environments as well. Purchasing the Klein Tools MM1000 also gets you the thermocouple for measuring the temperatures. Its design is impressive; it has a rubber casing which makes the device drop proof. The ribs on the side of the casing facilitate a stronger grip as well. As far as the durability goes, this unit is the most durable out of these five models we’ve reviewed.
Due to its vast number of auxiliary functions, it’s also suitable for hardcore professionals who use these tools on a daily basis. However, because of its ease of use, it’s also good for people who simply want to widen up the inventory in their toolboxes. You can also test diodes and continuity with this multimeter.
There is a 440mA fuse inside the unit, which prevents failures due to sudden changes in current intensity. In other words, you’ll only have to replace the fuse instead of having to buy the whole unit again if you push the meter over its limits. Although it doesn’t happen often, it’s still great, especially if you’re a beginner or you never had to deal with these instruments. People seem to like this unit as it holds a 4.5-star rating on Amazon, which is quite impressive. The only downside we could find is that it’s not made in the United States as stated, but rather in Korea.
- Design
- Functionality
- Price
One great feature of the Fluke 106 is its small size and light weight, which ensures a more comfortable user experience. Unlike some other meters on the market, it won’t take a lot of space in your toolbox.
This tool is made from quality materials that ensure its durability. It also has all the essential functions a multimeter should have — current, resistance, voltage, continuity checks, and a capacitance range, for example.
Powered by two AAA batteries, the auto power-off function helps to prolong the battery life by turning the device off after 20 minutes of inactivity. So, even if you always forget to turn off your device after use, this feature will save you from additional expense and unnecessary battery replacements.
An exciting and pretty unusual feature of the Fluke 106 is the data hold function. It’s more of a “luxury” feature that is rarely integrated into basic versions. it’s an advantageous option, particularly when you don’t have the chance to write down the readings immediately. This feature stores the last reading you take, until it’s overwritten with new data.
The current range is up to 10A, and voltage up to 600V AC and DC. It is best suited for standard electrical work because there are no micro-amps, milliamps, or DC milli-volts.
- Design
- Functionality
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Quick Product Comparison
| TRUE RMS | VOLTAGE | AUTO RANGE | WEIGHT | PRICE | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Klein Tools MM600 | 1000V | 0.9 lbs | $$$ | Check Price | ||
Fluke 101 | 600V | 0.55 lbs | $ | Check Price | ||
Mastech MS8209 | 600V | 1.7 lbs | $$ | Check Price | ||
Extech EX330 | 600V | 1.1 lbs | $ | Check Price | ||
Amprobe AM-530 | 600V | 0.78 lbs | $ | Check Price |
Our Verdict: Which Product Do We Prefer?
The sub-$100 multimeter niche is seriously competitive — each of our top picks exemplifying contractor-level features and functionality, yet at prices that aren’t going to break to the bank. However, for me, the Klein Tools MM600 possesses elusive sparks that make it stand above the rest.
Boasting a category-leading 1000-volt capacity — this unit will deal with the majority of home, industrial, marine, and automotive projects. Rated for CAT III and IV applications, it’s built for safety, providing reassuring peace of mind. And, in addition to the multimeter staples of testing current, capacitance, resistance, frequency, and continuity — this mighty tool can check temperatures up to a maximum of 1000 degrees Fahrenheit.
What’s more, this is one durable unit. Able to withstand drops from 6.6-feet with its reinforced casing, this multimeter will appeal to the hardcore electronic enthusiast — who understands the accidental knocks that are a feature of extreme and intense use. And, if you want more, the unit arrives complete with a carry-pouch for added protection against bumps and dirt, water, and detritus ingress.
Hence, if you’re a seasoned pro or an ambitious amateur — I recommend checking out the feature-heavy yet price-light Klein Tools MM600.
Under $100 Multimeters – Buyer’s Guide
In this article, we’ll be taking a look at what factors one needs to consider when looking for a multimeter that won’t cost him more than $100. Sounds interesting? If yes, read on!
Reviews
One of the first things you’ll have to do is to check both the professional reviews and the experiences of the actual users. Simply go online and analyze what other people say about a particular model – their experience is guaranteed to help you determine the advantages and flaws of a particular model.
We recommend taking a look at our reviews of the best multimeters for under $100 – they’re full of useful information but are still very comprehensive and easy-to-read.
Durability
Your future model has to be a long-lasting one. In other words, it would be wise to purchase a device that has been constructed of durable materials and is capable of withstanding every-day wear and tear. This is especially important for the probes – if you want the best possible value for your money, they need to stay fully functional for the years to come.
Display
Since you’ll be purchasing a digital multimeter, it’s important to look for a model with a good screen. What does that mean? Well, the display has to be big enough for you to read the values without any issues, and it should also feature a backlight. Whether you’re going to use your device in an environment that’s poorly-lit or bright, the display has to be visible and clear.
Accuracy
This is probably one of the most crucial things when it comes to these types of devices. The readings on your device need to be accurate no matter what you’re measuring. We advise you to choose only the models made by trusted companies to avoid frequent malfunctions and to get accurate readings whenever you use them.
Design
When it comes to design, it would be wise to choose a multimeter that’s compact and thus easy to hold, even with just one hand. If you want your device to feel comfortable when you’re holding it, look for models that sport an ergonomic design.
Safety
Another important thing would be to look for the features that allow safe use of the multimeter. For example, your model should provide protection from overloading and polarity. Furthermore, it should be constructed from quality components that make it outstanding when it comes to safety.
Warranty
Finally, you should select a product that comes together with a warranty of at least one year. This will give you the necessary peace of mind when it comes to possible defects and malfunctions.
The Conclusion
As you can see, multimeters are invaluable tools – they’re of paramount importance to both the DIY handymen and professional technicians. With one of these devices, you’ll be able to check numerous things related to electronics – whether you’re just fixing something at your house or you’re making a living out of it.
In case you’d like to purchase a quality device of this type but don’t want to spend more than $100, you’ll find our reviews to be very useful. We’ve rounded the most popular models in this price category and went over their features to see if they’re actually worth purchasing.
By checking out these reviews, you’ll be able to easily find a tool that will serve you for the years to come. We have tried to give you an insight into each model’s advantages and flaws, and it’s up to you to select a multimeter that you think is worth your money.
Don’t forget to check out our other articles, such as the Buyer’s Guide, to find out more on multimeters sold for less than $100. Here at the Tool Nerds, we’re giving our best to inform you about the benefits and disadvantages of the market’s latest tools – we hope we’ve been helpful!
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