Multimeters are not unusual anymore; they are actually quite ubiquitous nowadays. You will notice a plethora of them in the nearest electronics shop.
However, not all of them are inexpensive and good at the same time. But many people who long for the best cheap multimeter.
So we decided to make it easier for them. We analyzed and researched the market for more than a month and come up with this multimeter review.
In this article, you will find ten cheap multimeter with reviews. We will cover the weaknesses and strengths of each product so that you can compare them easily. Also, we have a comparison table so that you can get an overall idea.
In the end, we will share some practical tips for buying a cheap multimeter. Following, we will answer some of the most asked questions about multimeters. Without further delay, let’s get to the point:
Read: Best Fluke Multimeter
Is a Cheap Multimeter Worth It?
It depends on what you need the multimeter for. Cheap multimeters may not be as accurate or reliable as more expensive ones, but they can still be useful for basic tasks such as measuring voltage and resistance.
If you only need to use a multimeter occasionally or for simple projects, a cheap one may be worth it.
However, if you need a multimeter for professional or critical use, it may be better to invest in a more expensive and accurate model.
The Best Cheap Multimeter to Buy – Top Pick in 2023
We all are swamped with work in this competitive world. Therefore, many of us don’t have much time to research and even read an entire article.
Research to get the best product is an arduous task. Thus, I thought, why not give you a basic overview so that you can quickly get an idea.
The purpose of this section is to let you know about the key points of each product we are covering today.
From here, you will get an idea, and then you can just read the review of the particular product that you have chosen, no need to go through the entire study. Let’s get started:
Image | Name | Rating | At a Glance | Price |
 | INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter | Excellent built quality | ||
 | Neoteck Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter | Bright display, safe and secure | ||
 | Etekcity MSR-R500 Digital Multimeter | Tiny, accurate, user-friendly | ||
 | Tekpower Mastech MS8268 Digital Multimeter Meter | Excellent construction | ||
 | Klein Tools MM400 Multimeter | Best budget multimeter |
Top 10 Best Cheap Digital Multimeter: Reviews & Guide
We didn’t maintain any order in this segment. As we believe, each of the following products is best and serves their purpose correctly. So maintaining order is unnecessary.
All of the products are inexpensive, yet they have everything one needs from a basic multimeter. They will give a push on starting your journey.
The reviews will be detailed. We will discuss the positive and negative aspects of each product so that you can compare it. After that, we will share some essential tips. So, let’s begin:
1. INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
UL Certified
Auto-ranging Scales
Single-setting Resistance
When it comes to a cheap multimeter, INNOVA 3320 certainly one of the supreme in the market. No, you won’t get everything on this multimeter, which is evident in this price range. Still, it reduces the risk of unexpected fuse blow.
INNOVA 3320 Digital Multimeter is apt for all home and automotive electric concerns. It measures voltage, resistance, and current perfectly.
The best part of this multimeter is its auto adjustment ability to the perfect range according to your input. Also, UL is certified for safety and accuracy regarding the troubleshooting of a variety of applications. Overall, it is an excellent choice. Thus we have put it on top. Let’s check out the top features:
Built-Quality: Though it is a budget multimeter still, INNOVA made it with great care and perfection. They used high-quality material. If you maintain it properly, it will assist you in many years.
Less Complicated: It has limited dials that make it less confusing. If you are a newbie, lots of dials can baffle you easily. Therefore you will lose your interest in the machine. Also, you might damage the multimeter itself by operating it wrong.
So, we can declare this one as one of the best for the beginners who require less hassle. The multimeter features a single dial that maintains the resistance, AC/DC voltage, and current.
Auto-ranging Scale: You don’t have to dial in the correct range while making electronic measurements, thanks to the auto-ranging scale feature provided by INNOVA. The device can take care of itself by giving automatic measurement with cent percent accuracy.
Other Features: You will also get a large digital display and color-coded LED to check the battery status and many more. Even with protective rubber corner guards, this machine is protected to unexpected drops.
2. Neoteck Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
CE Rated
Auto-ranging
Accurately Measures
Do you want to diagnose an electrical problem with ease? Have a look at the Neoteck Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter, considered one of the top-rated models on the cheap segment. It is loaded with all the essential features, but we love its convenience.
It is user-friendly. Newbie electricians could adopt the device in no time. There is no need for you to set the voltage range. You will also find clips and probes that will let you hook to the ground while taking the status. The built-quality is good enough. Let’s discuss some top features below:
Bright Display: Neoteck included a large and bright LCD with backlight. So, this device will let you work in the dark. As electricians deal with an electrical problem so you might need to check the reading on darkness. In that case, it is highly effective.
Accuracy: Though it is cheap and looks average, don’t misunderstand. It is not an average meter by any means. You will always get an accurate measurement of voltage, resistance, diodes, and AC/DC.
Safe: The multimeter is CE rated and comes with overload protection. They formed to provide the utmost safety to the users. You can troubleshoot a wide range of applications with this multimeter. Also, it keeps the device safe; they covered it with non-slip soft plastic. Unexpected drop won’t be a problem for this champ.
Read: Best Digital Multimeter
3. Etekcity MSR-R500 Digital Multimeter
Overload display
Manual Ranging
Overload Protected
The Etekcity MSR-R500 Digital Multimeter will be astonished you with its ability! You won’t believe how a tiny little thing can handle this much load. Don,t judge a book by its size Bro!
It is one of the most elegant startup devices with all the required features. The built-quality is good, and it provides the utmost accuracy. Let me depict some of its top features quickly:
Accurate and Quick: You definitely will praise the multimeter for its precision on measurement. Etekcity MSR-R500 can test DC Current, AC/DC voltage, resistance, diode, and so on. The sampling speed is three times per second! It’s accurate and quick.
User-Friendly: With sizeable backlit LCD, built-in support stand, and data hold button, Etekcity MSR-R500 is one of the most convenient options. The stand will let you work without using your hand. And on the bright display, you will see significant digits that are easy to read. So, the users get maximum comfort of handling.
Safe: The device is safe for the user and for itself. You will get drop protection as they used protective rubber sleeve around the device. Also, it offers overload protection.
Built-Quality: Etekcity MSR-R500 is well constructed with top quality materials. If you take care of the device properly, it will assist you in many years.
Read: Best HVAC Multimeter
4. Klein Tools 69149 Multimeter
AC/DC Voltage
Manual Ranging
Batteries Included
Klein Tools is another big name in this industry. Since 1857 they have been fulfilling the demand of consumers with their professional tools. Their products deliver excellent performance, longevity, and accuracy.
Like most of their products, Klein Tools 69149 Multimeter is another quintessential multimeter, solidly built, accurate and inexpensive.
It is regarded as one of the best low-cost multimeters for its plethora of features. For home use, you will not get something better than this one. Without further ado, let’s talk about the features in details:
Safety: The measurement of {AC/DC voltage, DC, and resistance includes a safety evaluation of CAT III 600V, Class 2, and can be double insulated. Consequently, you are incredibly safe while using this product.
Additionally, it has 35mm Jaws, which would enable you to detect current amps without touching cables or wires. Thus, it is exceptionally safe and effective for home use.
Backlit: The backlit included on the device is another fantastic feature. It comes with a green backlit that indicates when the multimeter is in the right position. Likewise, it turns red and produces a warning sound when it finds out the voltage.
Automatic Turn Off: While not in use, Klein Tools 69149 automatically saves energy and enhances battery life. You will also get on and off the power button on the device for more convenience.
5. Tekpower Mastech MS8268 Digital Multimeter Meter
AC/DC Voltage
LED / Sound Warning
Auto and Manual Ranging
For occasional users and DIY enthusiasts, Mastech MS8268 version is low-cost equipment that performs like a champ. Unlike other multimeters at this price range, this digital tool has a robust construction that can withstand a knock and there.
Also, it is loaded with a plethora of features that can make you fall for it instantly. Suppose you’re looking for a multimeter that has the necessary features and can offer exact results. In that case, our 5th pick is an excellent option.
While researching the product, we have found lots of positive customer feedback and high ratings. After testing it, we realized that it deserves all the praises. Now, let me demonstrate some great features of the champ:
Construction: Even though the price is low, still Tekpower didn’t compromise with the built quality. They used the highest quality material to enhance the longevity of the product. If you maintain the meter correctly, it can last several years. Also, it can tolerate excessive use.
Auto-Power Off: Unlike most of the traditional multimeter, this one has the energy-saving capability. While not in use, it will turn off automatically, which saves energy and keeps the battery in a comfortable condition.
Warning Function: Yeah, the little champ will warn you with a sound. If you use incorrect jacks for a test, you will hear the warning. This is an excellent safety feature that will make your life pleasanter.
6. Etekcity MSR-C600D Digital Multimeter
Auto Ranging
AC/DC Voltage
Energy Conservation
The Simplicity of use is one of the great features of Etekcity MSR-C600D. Thus, both professionals and beginners can use this product without any hassle. Furthermore, the price is affordable. It is evident; otherwise, we wouldn’t have included it here in this cheap multimeter review.
Anyway, because of the low cost, it is accessible to everyone. The built-quality of the product is fantastic, and it has everything you longs from a multimeter. We have tested it multiple times, and the result is provided is excellent. Let’s check the top features:
Auto-ranging: Auto-ranging could be found in all the modern multimeters. It is not a game-changing thing if you are an expert. You could easily set the range manually. But for a beginner, it is something exceptional, even game-changing. This feature makes the machine more comfortable and convenient to use.
Display: Etekcity MSR-C600D Digital Multimeter features an excellent LCD where you could read the data easily. The display is unique with symbols and markings to let you understand the status easily. You can even read the info from multiple angles, which is the most fascinating aspect of this display and is readable in sunny conditions.
Hold Feature: Hold feature is another cool addition in modern multimeters. It allows one to store readings. If you don’t have any paper or pen to write down, this feature saves a life. And Etekcity MSR-C600D has this feature included, Bingo!
7. Klein Tools MM400 Multimeter
AC/DC Voltage
Durable and Precision
CAT III 600V Safety Rating
Cheap multimeter in terms of price, but you cannot include the Klein Tools MM400 on the list when it comes to performance. It is one of the most exceptional products in terms of design, construction, and performance.
Though it is an entry-level device, it can handle severe abuses. Klein Tools used high-quality material to form this product. Thus, it will serve you many years with no issue. Let me depict the top features briefly:
Build-Quality: Klein Tools MM400 Multimeter passed several tests and, no doubt, a well-constructed device. This compact device is covered with a rugged rubber holster that can withstand severe abuse. Also, it offers a perfect grip on the hand.
Design: The design of the device is user-friendly. You can handle the dial easily with one hand. Also, the buttons are large and simple. Even changing the batteries require no hassle. You will also get flexible lead wear. Overall, the design is user-friendly.
Quality Display: The backlit display doesn’t provide a super-high resolution, which is evident from a multimeter of this price. Yet, it is easy to read and clear. Overall, display quality is decent for a multimeter.
Other functions and features: You will get data to hold feature and auto shut-off facility, which is rare in cheap multimeters.
8. CRAFTSMAN 3482141 Digital Multimeter
AC/DC Voltage
Multi Functions
Best for Handymen
If you are searching for an excellent inexpensive multimeter, my recommendation is CRAFTSMAN 3482141. You may be wondering why I am suggesting this one, right? For a cheap multimeter, it is one of the best in the market with all its essential features.
This device offers everything you could ask. Also, Craftsman has a reputation for providing products that work! With this device, they have proved their worth once again. Without further ado, let me illustrate some features of the product briefly:
Built-quality: Craftsman never disappoints with their built-quality. All of their products are well constructed with premium materials. They create a longer-lasting product. Like all of their products, this, too, is made of high-quality materials. Therefore, it gives an excellent grip, withstands excessive abuse, and last longer.
8-Functions: it is the most appealing feature on this device, making it different from all the other best budget multimeters. You can handle several jobs incorporated with AC or DC current, Ohms, and amps without any obstacles.
Other Exclusive Features: Craftsman 3482141 has a large LCD screen on which you will easily read your reading results. Also, it comes with a quality case that is perfect in size. It will surely fit on your toolbox. Furthermore, the device has all the safety features included. It will never let you down that’s for sure.
9. Extech MN24-KIT Electrical Test Kit
AC/DC Voltage
Manual Ranging
Voltage Detector
Is Extech MN24 the best cheap digital multimeter? Arguably, yes. Many professionals consider this one as the best, whereas others view it as one of the best. The fact is this is a suitable device that can provide good accuracy.
Also, it will last several years, thanks to the quality construction. You will find it easier to operate, and the price is reasonable. If you need a good multimeter for regular home use, Extech MN24 is an excellent choice. Let’s see the top features of the device:
Unique Display: Extech MN24-KIT features a large and attractive display that shows the reading of AC/DC voltage measurement, DC current, Resistance, Continuity, and so on. The symbols and signs displayed on the screen are large and easy to read.
User-Friendly: The model is correctly designed without any complications. You will never feel any issue while using this one. The functions and buttons are easy to capture.
Additions: It comes with a non-contact voltage detector, flashing LED, and Audible beeper. All the functions are pretty useful.
10. Neiko 40508 Digital Multimeter
AC/DC Voltage
Compact Design
Safe and Accurate
Last but not least, we have Neiko 40508 Digital Multimeter in here considered as another top-rated multimeter at a reasonable price. It is portable, well-built, easy to use, and has lots of practical features.
I am sure you will never regret having it on your tool kit. But this is an entry-level multimeter. Remember, it will not mean to use on the professional level. Let’s see the features quickly:
LCD Screen: Neiko 40508 Comes with a fantastic display. The LCD is large and easy to read. You can check the status of resistance, current, and voltage on display without any problem. The display is not at all harmful for the eye.
Safety: The device can withstand severe abuses, yet it will not harm itself or the users. They included all the safety features in this tiny multimeter. It is an overload, protective, and highly secure tool for troubleshooting problems.
Construction: The construction is proper as well for a product of this price range. If you properly use the device, it will last many years without causing any issue.
Cheap Multimeter Buying Guide: Read Before You Buy
Know that we have finished reviewing the best and cheap multimeter above. It’s time to share some practical buying tips as promised. You may be wondering why I should need a buying guide if I already know about the best products, right?
Well, ‘best’ irrational, and it varies from person to person. The thing that can fulfill your need is best for you; the one that meets my demand is best for me. Everyone has their priority and priority matters to define best.
Anyway, no matter your priority, we all have some standard requirements we need to see on a product. Such as- reliability, solid construction, accuracy, and affordability. In this section, I will cover everything so that you can wisely judge which cheap multimeter is ideal for your need and which one need to overlook. So, let’s begin:
Safety
You are playing with electricity, it’s not a joke! Every year electric hazards cause more than 300 deaths and 4000 injuries in the US workforce. Thus, you have to be fully aware while working with electricity. Life is more important than your work, right?
While dealing with high voltages, make sure you have a multimeter with all the safety features included. It will be better if the multimeter has internal blast shields, highly rated fuses, and isolation slots. Also, while working on electricity, don’t get distracted.
Accuracy
The world is not perfect; therefore, a multimeter no matter how good it is, couldn’t give you a hundred percent accuracy, period. You will always find some flaws, no matter how expensive or cheap multimeter you are using.
If you are professional, you already know that by spending lots of bucks to get that ultimate result. Anyway, some products are close to perfect but not wholly accurate. If you are a DIY person or a hobbyist, you can compromise with the accuracy a bit.
The truth is no multimeter is entirely reliable. So, you need to find something that provides good accuracy compared to other models. You need to find one that is not wholly accurate but close to accurate.
Build-quality and Design:
Though people don’t focus much on the built-quality and design of a multimeter doesn’t mean it is less critical. If the construction quality is not good enough, the device will not work for an extended period.
On the other hand, if you want hassle-free using experience, the design must be simple. So, it is always wiser to consider a device well-constructed in a less complicated model.
Additional Features
Apart from all the features mention above, there are a few extra features you can look at a cheap multimeter. Usually, different brands include different additional features to make the product more convenient to the user.
For example- if you deal with a refrigeration system or computer processors now and then, you can look for a multimeter with a temperature sensor. You can also look for transistor testing circuits, hold functions, and LCD screens. Lots of brands are offering these features on their low-end devices. Look for these features if you need them.
Price
The article deals with the best and cheap multimeter, so there is not much to talk about price. All the products are available in a low-price range. If you want value for money which everyone longs, you can pick any of the above products we have mentioned. But you should also be aware that these products are entry-level.
You cannot expect professional performance from these. But some of them are quite capable of handling mid projects as well. But they are not suggested to use for professional purposes.
Suppose you need to work on a professional level. In that case, you have to increase your budget, and we will surely come up with another article that deals with the best multimeter of the present time.
Digital Multimeters vs Analog Multimeters
While buying a multimeter, the first thing you have to decide is the type. You have to choose between digital and analog multimeters. This is the first necessity. Some people prefer analog multimeter, whereas some others prefer digital ones. You have to decide, depending on your need. Let me explain a bit about each type below:
Digital Multimeters feature LCD to read out the measurement in comfort. These are more modern and better in terms of construction and precision. But they cannot afford knockout analog meters just because of that. In some situations, analog meters offer more than digital meters. Thus, many people still consider analog meter as their first choice.
We all know about current fluctuation while measuring electrical current. If you use a digital multimeter, you can get an instant wrong snapshot of the current. On the other hand, in such a situation, the moving dial on the analog meter provides a more complete picture. You could see what is happening.
If you pick one of the best digital multimeter loaded with all required features, you might overcome that particular issue. Also, analog meters are getting harder to find nowadays because of their limited features and complexity.
In the end, it is you who have to decide depending on your need. All I can do is share some practical reasons. So, decide which one will make more meaning in work and buy that type.
Auto-Ranging vs Manual Ranging
While buying a multimeter, this is another most important topic of discussion. Often people get confused between auto and manual ranging features. The simple and straightforward solution for the issue is to go with an auto-ranging device.
It will make your experience more pleasant as you do not have to know the value ranges of the thing you are testing. The idea is contrary to a manual ranging multimeter where you need to see the range of benefits of the thing you are testing.
If you don’t want any kind of hassle, go for auto-ranging models. If you are a beginner, auto-ranging is highly recommended.
Cheap vs expensive multimeter – Which to buy?
When deciding whether to buy a cheap or expensive multimeter, it’s important to consider the intended use and level of accuracy required.
If you need a multimeter for occasional use or simple tasks such as measuring voltage, current, and resistance in a home or hobby setting, a cheap multimeter may be sufficient. Cheap multimeters are often less expensive and less accurate than more expensive models, but they can still be useful for basic measurements.
On the other hand, if you need a multimeter for professional or critical use, such as in industrial or laboratory settings, an expensive model may be a better choice.
Expensive multimeters often have higher accuracy and precision, and may also have additional features such as temperature and frequency measurement, which are useful in certain applications.
In summary, while a cheap multimeter may be adequate for some basic and occasional use, it’s worth investing in a more expensive model if your needs are more demanding.
How to test a capacitor with a cheap multimeter
Frequently Asked Questions of Cheap Multimeter
Are there any final tips you could share before a make a deal?
Don’t rush! Just because someone like me declared some product as best, don’t just pick that without further investigation. All you have to do is click the link and read the customer reviews on the amazon page.
Read as many comments as you can to get an accurate idea about the product. Then you are ready to go. We can trust the superior ten products, but as they are better than many products, your investigation is also required before making a deal.
Can a multimeter battery be recharged?
Yes and no! Some multimeters run on rechargeable batteries, whereas some others are not. If you pick a multimeter with the rechargeable battery, then the answer is yes; otherwise, the answer is no.
Are cheap multimeters any good?
Not bad, I must say, but it depends highly on your purpose. If you want to handle little home works, certainly a cheap multimeter is good enough. But if you’re going to manage industrial projects, no sir cheap multimeters are not for you.
Can you declare one name from the above ten products?
See all the above products are outstanding in terms of performance and construction. All of them are equally good, and it is quite hard to declare one name from the above list.
Then again, each product has individual characteristics. You have to find out the one that matches your requirement, and that is the right product for you. So, I am not telling you one name instead of asking you to come up with your own choice.
Are cheap multimeters any good
Cheap multimeters can be good for basic measurements such as measuring voltage, current and resistance. However, their accuracy and precision may not be as high as more expensive models. They may also lack additional features that can be useful in certain applications.
Are cheap multimeters accurate
Accuracy is one of the main factors to consider when buying a multimeter, and it can vary greatly between cheap and expensive models.
In general, cheap multimeters may not be as accurate as more expensive models. They may have a larger margin of error, which can affect the accuracy of measurements. This can be especially important in situations where precise measurements are required, such as in professional or laboratory settings.
Conclusion
Congratulations on your completion of this massive article about the best cheap multimeter. You have read the reviews of the top ten products and practical buying guide. Also, answered some of the most asked online questions, as promised. I don’t have anything left to say.
To recapitulate, I can say all the above products are excellent, but whether they are best depends on your perspective and demand. As you can see, multimeters are available in different functionalities and formed in various technologies. You have to pick the one that is suitable for your work.
If you ask me which one to pick from the above list, I can’t say anything. Why? Because I don’t know what you are looking for. So, my suggestion to you is to know your purpose clearly before you even think about multimeter.
This is the end, my friend. But we will meet again soon with many more effective tips tricks and product reviews related to electronics. If you still need to know anything about multimeter, feel free to leave a comment on our comment section. We will get back to you with a proper answer. Keep an eye on your blog every day.
Take Care!
