Planet 9

***Stephen_the_Red*** · #1 02-26-2009, 02:33 AM

Am interesting in buying a multimeter, for use with the cars and around the house (so DC/AC, voltage and current/amperage). Would like to get suggestions for a decent unit, hopefully under $100. Digital read-out preferred over analog gauge. I am not an electrical expert, don't plan to become one, but need to do simple things like check plugs in the house (AC 110V/60Hz/15 to 30A - U.S.) and cars (+/- 5, 12V DC etc.)

Thanks in advance,

**Nick_USA** · #2 02-26-2009, 02:36 AM

Originally Posted by Stephen_the_Red

Am interesting in buying a multimeter, for use with the cars and around the house (so DC/AC, voltage and current/amperage). Would like to get suggestions for a decent unit, hopefully under $100. Digital read-out preferred over analog gauge. I am not an electrical expert, don't plan to become one, but need to do simple things like check plugs in the house (AC 110V/60Hz/15 to 30A - U.S.) and cars (+/- 5, 12V DC etc.)

Thanks in advance,

Been using this one for a while, simple and great for DIY:

15-Range Digital Multimeter - RadioShack.com

AgCroc · #3 02-26-2009, 05:09 AM

If you go to the West Marine website you will find four or five digital multi-meters listed (all Ancor brand) for pricesd ranging from $50 to $150. You can compare the features to see what you want.
Marty

647chang · #4 02-26-2009, 05:45 AM

This is what I used to get through college auto class. I also used it when I was working as an auto tech. Had everything I need and ever will need.

Craftsman Multimeter - Model 82139 at Sears.com

AlexMcNabb · #5 02-26-2009, 05:48 AM

GET A FLUKE!

"If it works everytime, it must be a Fluke."

gwg0305 · #6 02-27-2009, 02:31 AM

Second the Fluke advice.

Maks · #7 02-27-2009, 04:13 AM

Third the Fluke advice. Best meters around by far!

gonzo · #8 02-27-2009, 05:25 AM

I vote for Fluke as well. Although, the price is more than the $100 target.

**bwass24** · #9 02-27-2009, 05:42 AM

Originally Posted by gonzo

I vote for Fluke as well. Although, the price is more than the $100 target.

Fluke is the brand to get but you don't have to overspend for a modest meter. I have one of these and it's great for most things.

Fluke T5-600

ezmoney · #10 02-27-2009, 08:10 AM

Fluke is the meter to get. I spent 34 years in electrical construction and they are the best, however you might want to look at meters from Amprobe if you want to stay within your budget. They have a lot of digital multimeters under $100. I also used Amprobe meters and still own 3 of them.

**Yancy** · #11 02-27-2009, 08:23 AM

Gotta love the Fluke fans here!

I have been kicking around a Fluke 75 (series 1!) for 15 years or so.

You can find the latest series III 75s on ebay for about $85. It will last forever.

Fluke 75

**smounic** · #12 02-27-2009, 01:23 PM

I use a fluke 189 for my electronics and cars. Its phenomenal, but probably a bit out of your range at $400 plus ($200 on ebay).

Until I got it, I used a radio shack vintage $30 digital multimeter that worked great. I've used it for 15 years with no problems and I would recommend that if you want to get away cheap. If you can find one with ammeter functionality, that adds a very nice capability. I wouldn't hesitate to pck up another one from radio smack if I just wanted to measure voltages.

Cantrax · #13 02-27-2009, 02:14 PM

Go Fluke for sure. They are the best and very accurate and robust.

Gator Bite · #14 02-27-2009, 05:03 PM

Originally Posted by ezmoney

Fluke is the meter to get. I spent 34 years in electrical construction and they are the best, however you might want to look at meters from Amprobe if you want to stay within your budget. They have a lot of digital multimeters under $100. I also used Amprobe meters and still own 3 of them.

Originally Posted by Cantrax

Go Fluke for sure. They are the best and very accurate and robust.

Originally Posted by smounic

I use a fluke 189 for my electronics and cars. Its phenomenal, but probably a bit out of your range at $400 plus ($200 on ebay).

Until I got it, I used a radio shack vintage $30 digital multimeter that worked great. I've used it for 15 years with no problems and I would recommend that if you want to get away cheap. If you can find one with ammeter functionality, that adds a very nice capability. I wouldn't hesitate to pck up another one from radio smack if I just wanted to measure voltages.

Originally Posted by Yancy

Gotta love the Fluke fans here!

I have been kicking around a Fluke 75 (series 1!) for 15 years or so.

You can find the latest series III 75s on ebay for about $85. It will last forever.

Fluke 75

Can't agree more. I own three. An 8024b, a 77 and an 88. The 88 has automotive specific functions, but it wasn't cheap. I think I paid around $400 for it.

AlexMcNabb · #15 02-28-2009, 06:16 PM

IMO, they don't feel as high quality or as durably constructed as Fluke, but the functionality is quite similar.

shellshocked · #16 03-01-2009, 02:03 AM

I have a fluke and they are rugged but in reality if all you are going to do is use it around the house and on the car you don't need to spend much money. One important consideration are the leads - having leads that have a fine point on the tip and have alligator clip attachments comes in handy. Cheap meters often skimp in this area. Also having a fold out stand comes in handy. Just some considerations.

Dunebasher · #17 03-01-2009, 05:54 PM

Agree with Shellshocked.....If you're only using it for general voltage checks then you don't need to go expensive, as generally the power is either there or it isnt.

Fluke is the daddy though and have no complaints on the 289 and 87 I use.