10 Best Multimeters 2026 in the United States

The Fluke 117/323 Kit is designed for both residential and commercial electricians, making it a solid choice for anyone needing reliable electrical measurements. This combo includes a multimeter and a clamp meter, offering versatility for various tasks. The 117 multimeter provides true RMS measurements, which is essential for accurate readings on non-linear loads, and it also features low input impedance to reduce false readings from ghost voltage. It measures AC and DC voltage and current, making it comprehensive for electrical diagnostics.

The 323 clamp meter complements the multimeter well, with the ability to measure up to 400 A of AC current and 600 VAC and DC voltage, which should satisfy the needs of most electricians. Both tools have excellent safety ratings, ensuring use is safe even in challenging environments.

On the downside, the accuracy rating of 0.5% can be a bit limiting for precision work, especially in situations where high accuracy is critical. Additionally, its reliance on 9V batteries may necessitate regular replacements, and while batteries are included, the ongoing cost could be a minor inconvenience. The combination kit is slightly heavier at just under 2 pounds, which may be a consideration for users who need to carry it around frequently.

The Fluke 323 Clamp Meter is designed with both commercial and residential electricians in mind. It excels in measuring AC current up to 400 amps and AC/DC voltage up to 600 volts, making it a practical choice for various electrical tasks. One of its strengths is the true RMS sensing, which ensures accurate readings for both linear and non-linear loads—even with complicated waveforms. This feature is particularly beneficial in today's diverse electrical environments.

The clamp meter's jaw opening allows it to measure current in a conductor up to 30 millimeters without the need to break the circuit, which adds convenience and safety during measurements. It also includes an audible continuity sensor, which is helpful for quickly determining if a circuit is conductive.

In terms of safety, the Fluke 323 meets IEC safety standard 61010 1, and its CAT IV and CAT III ratings provide confidence when working in various environments. However, it does not measure DC current, which could limit its usability for some users who need to work with DC systems. The resistance measurement is limited to 4 kilo ohms, which is adequate for most residential applications, but some professional electricians may require a higher range. The meter is lightweight at 200 grams and comes with a soft carrying case, enhancing its portability.

The Fluke 323 is a solid option for electricians and DIY enthusiasts; those needing to measure DC current or more extensive resistance ranges should explore other models. For general AC measurements and residential projects, it stands out as a reliable tool with good accuracy and ease of use.

The Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter is designed for a broad range of electrical applications, which makes it quite versatile. One of its major strengths lies in its accuracy and range, with the ability to measure AC/DC voltage up to 1000V and current up to 10A. This makes it suitable for both household and industrial use. Additionally, it covers key measurements such as resistance, continuity, capacitance, diode testing, and temperature, offering a comprehensive toolkit for troubleshooting various electrical issues.

The inclusion of a type K thermocouple for temperature measurement up to 400C is a notable feature for those working with heating and cooling systems. The CAT III 600V safety rating is a critical safety feature, ensuring protection while working on electrical systems in different environments. Its input impedance is designed to give accurate readings without affecting the circuit, which is important for precise measurements.

There are a few drawbacks. The product's weight (450 grams) might be on the heavier side for some users who prefer lighter tools for prolonged use. The battery-powered nature of the multimeter means that ensuring you have spare batteries is crucial to avoid downtime. Additionally, some users may find the lack of advanced features like Bluetooth connectivity or data logging a limitation, especially for more complex tasks requiring detailed records over time. Despite these minor drawbacks, the Fluke 17B+ stands out as a reliable, accurate, and safe tool for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts needing a robust multimeter for various electrical applications.