The Best Multimeters, Tested and Reviewed

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Want to safely repair an electric appliance or simply test your home’s wiring? Get shopping tips as well as our top tool recommendations for both do-it-yourselfers and pros.

From testing batteries to determining the amount of voltage in an electrical circuit, the multimeter is a standard diagnostic tool often found in electricians’ tool kits. But multimeters also come in handy for DIYers who want to test their home’s wiring or repair electrical appliances. They’re also practical for hobbyists—folks who tinker with electronic circuits when building the likes of pedometers, motors, and humidity sensors.

Prior to the development of today’s versatile multimeters (also called multitesters), separate meters were necessary to test circuits for voltage (voltmeter), resistance (ohmmeter), and current (ammeter). Now, multimeters combine those testing capabilities into a single tool, letting you perform a variety of electrical tests with one device.

A wide variety of multimeters are available, designed for both basic and advanced circuit testing and geared toward different projects or specialties. While a DIYer can usually get by with a no-frills tool, electricians and HVAC pros will benefit from some of the advanced options found on professional models.

Our favorite multimeter is the Greenlee DM-45 4,000-Count 600V Digital Multimeter. We like it because of its multifunctional design; gripped rubber cover; and bright, backlit display. We performed hands-on testing with some of the best multimeters, so keep reading to learn about what we found to help you choose the right tool for you.

1. BEST OVERALL: Greenlee DM-45 4,000-Count 600V Digital Multimeter
2. RUNNER-UP: Extech EX330 12-Function Mini Multimeter
3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Klein Tools MM400 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
4. BEST CLAMP: Klein Tools CL390 AC/DC Digital Clamp Meter
5. BEST COMBO KIT: Fluke 117/323 Digital Multimeter and Clamp Meter Kit
6. BEST FOR BASIC DIY: Fluke 107 Pocket Digital Multimeter
7. BEST STARTER KIT: Klein Tools MM320KIT Digital Multimeter Test Kit
8. BEST FOR HVAC: Fieldpiece SC260 400A Compact Clamp Meter
9. BEST ANALOG: Gardner Bender GMT-318 6-Function Analog Multimeter
10. ALSO CONSIDER: Ideal Industries 61-744 600A AC Clamp-Pro Clamp Meter

How We Tested the Best Multimeters

Full disclosure: We are not electricians or HVAC technicians. Our goal was to test these meters to the degree that the average DIYer would use their meter. Learning how to use these meters to their full capacity and having the serious electrical infrastructure available to test some of those functions is outside the scope of this article. With that said, we put each of these meters through their paces.

First, we set up a testing station with some outlets, wires, appliances, and a couple of batteries. We checked each of the basic functions, like alternating current (AC) and direct current (DC) voltage, resistance, continuity, and the jaws on the clamp meters. We worked in the dark as well as the bright sunlight so we could see how well the displays performed.

We also tested these meters in the driveway to see how they’d do troubleshooting the wiring in an older vehicle. We did simple tests like battery loads as well as testing across some less-than-factory wiring jobs. In the process, we compared the meters’ stands, leads, and functions as they apply to automotive work.

Between all these tests, we had a good idea of what the average DIYer can expect from each of these models. Some models didn’t make the grade, while others excelled.

Our Top Picks

There’s actually a lot to know about choosing the best multimeter—and while DIYers will find ample info in this guide, it might still feel challenging to find the right tool. To help simplify shopping, we performed hands-on testing with some of the best popular multimeters. Keep key considerations in mind when comparing the following list of our favorite multimeters.

Note: All the meters in our test feature auto-ranging AC and DC capability.

Best Overall

Greenlee DM-45 4,000-Count 600V Digital Multimeter

See It

This digital multimeter from Greenlee features auto-ranging capability to do away with guessing at the current being tested. It comes with standard black and red probes as well as a built-in stand. The Greenlee operates on a 9-volt battery (included) and tests AC/DC voltage, resistance, and current in addition to capacitance, duty cycle, and temperature. Its backlit display is a bright green color that makes reading it a breeze.

The first thing we noticed about the Greenlee during testing was its grippy rubber cover, which can slip on and off easily for cleaning. We liked the cutout in the back for the built-in stand and screw hook, making it a snap to set the meter atop an engine or hang it from a screw or nail. The green backlight proved to be the brightest of all models tested, with the green color offering a nice contrast. The only things missing that we would’ve liked are a thermocouple attachment to take advantage of the temperature sensor and a carrying case.

Product Specs 

• Style: Digital
• Functions: Voltage, amperage, resistance, frequency, capacitance, duty cycle, temperature
• Included probes: Test leads

What We Like

• Grippy rubber cover allows the user to maintain a solid hold on the meter in a variety of conditions
• Bright backlight with strong contrast lets you see the readings clearly, even in the dark
• Built-in stand and hanger hook make positioning this model easier than others, allowing you to test with both hands

What We Don’t Like

• No case or thermocouple included

Get the Greenlee multimeter at Amazon or Acme Tools. 

Runner-Up

Extech EX330 12-Function Mini Multimeter

See It

Folks looking for an all-around capable multimeter with all of the basic functions will want to consider the EX330 from Extech. This model comes with a set of test leads as well as a K-type thermocouple to provide temperature readings on motors or even airflow. You can also set the EX330 to autorange, selecting the correct measurement range for whatever circuit being tested. There is a noncontact voltage tester via a sensor in the top of the meter for quickly checking for power as well as a 15-minute automatic shutoff to save on the two AAA batteries.

As for functions, the EX330 offers AC and DC voltage, resistance, AC and DC amperage, frequency, temperature (Fahrenheit and Celsius), capacitance, diode testing, noncontact testing, continuity, and duty cycle.

While this is an excellent all-around meter, there are three things we especially liked about the EX330: the display, the temperature sensor, and the noncontact tester. The screen is large, with 1-inch-tall digits that are easy to read quickly and without mistakes. The temperature sensor works well and quickly grabs measurements rather than taking excessively long to even out. Plus, the noncontact sensor proved to be excellent as it beeps rather than making loud buzzing sounds like some other meters’ built-in testers do. The grippy exterior and built-in stand are also assets. Our only complaint is that there’s no backlight; if there was, the EX330 might’ve taken the top spot.

Product Specs 

• Style: Digital
• Functions: AC and DC voltage, resistance, AC and DC amperage, frequency, temperature (Fahrenheit and Celsius), capacitance, diode testing, noncontact testing, continuity, and duty cycle
• Included probes: Test leads and thermocouple

What We Like

• Large screen makes it easy to quickly and accurately observe the reading
• Built-in NCV (noncontact tester) makes a clear and audible beep, unlike some of the competitors
• It comes with a thermocouple kit for testing temperatures on motors and ductwork

What We Don’t Like

• It doesn’t have a backlight to make reading the screen easier in dark scenarios

Get the Extech multimeter at Amazon or Teledyne Flir.

Best Bang for the Buck

Klein Tools MM400 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter

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Klein Tools is a staple in the electrical tool world, and this digital multimeter is a good indication of why. This meter tests for volts, resistance, and amperage as well as frequency, duty cycle, capacitance, and temperature, allowing it to serve more purposes than the average DIYer may ever need. It comes with a set of test leads as well as a thermocouple probe for checking temperatures. The screen is easy to read and features a backlight for working in darker spaces.

We found the Klein Tools digital multimeter to be one of the easiest models on the list to use. First, switching between DC and AC on most readings was accomplished with just the push of a button. Next, we liked that despite having all the functions we could need, the multimeter was compact, making it easy to hold and store. Also, the backlit display was incredibly easy to read. Our biggest complaint was that it doesn’t come with a carrying case or a magnetic strap, but the budget-friendly price compensates for that.

Product Specs 

• Style: Digital
• Functions: Voltage, amperage, resistance, frequency, capacitance, duty cycle, temperature
• Included probes: Test leads and thermocouple

What We Like

• Easy to use thanks to the auto-ranging sensor that automatically chooses the correct settings
• Excellent backlit digital display makes for clear and easy reading of measurements in dark settings
• Affordable price; a quality multimeter needn’t break your tool budget!

What We Don’t Like

• It doesn’t come with a carrying case, so you’ll need to be careful when placing it in a tool box or bag

Get the Klein Tools MM400 multimeter at Amazon or The Home Depot. 

Best Clamp

Klein Tools CL390 AC/DC Digital Clamp Meter

See It

Anyone looking for a clamp meter for testing will be interested in checking out this model from Klein Tools. The CL390 digital clamp meter features a side-mounted trigger that opens the jaws for testing one conductor at a time, as well as a jaw-mounted noncontact tester on the end. The kit also includes standard testing leaders for amperage, voltage, resistance, duty cycle, capacitance, and diode testing. For temperature tests, there’s a K-type thermocouple that installs easily for fast readings.

This clamp meter proved to be pretty convenient. For one thing, we liked that it’s easy to test with one hand (once we split the wire on our office fan), but it’s also a handy way to hang the meter while working with the leads. The noncontact tester was also a big plus, as we could quickly check for voltage on wires and devices. We also liked the negative display, which was easy to read. The average DIYer might not need a clamp meter, but the design does allow it to serve as an excellent hanging clip.

Product Specs 

• Style: Digital clamp
• Functions: Voltage, amperage, resistance, frequency, capacitance, duty cycle, temperature, clamp, noncontact
• Included probes: Test leads, thermocouple, noncontact

What We Like

• Easy 1-handed operation thanks to the clamp meter’s design
• Hangs from the clamp from a wire or support beam for hands-free working with leads
• A noncontact tester is a big plus, allowing you to stay safe when working with unknown conditions

What We Don’t Like

• Might not be necessary for a DIYer who won’t measure individual conductors

Get the Klein Tools CL390 multimeter at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.

Best Combo Kit

Fluke 117/323 Digital Multimeter and Clamp Meter Kit

See It

Can’t decide between a multimeter and a clamp meter? This 117/323 kit from Fluke has both. The 117 multimeter features voltage, amperage, resistance, and continuity functions as well as a totally automatic voltage test setting for AC or DC voltage. It also features a noncontact setting that alerts to the presence of voltage. The 323 clamp meter has jaws for testing single conductors as well as terminals for attaching standard leads.

This kit pretty much covered all the bases for us during testing. We liked how easy the clamp meter was to use, and it served as an excellent clip for hands-free work. We really liked the multimeter’s functions—specifically, the noncontact tester that alerted us any time it was near an energized outlet or wire. The leads on this particular kit were outstanding as they spin in hand to expose more of the lead, allowing us to switch between small points for electronics to longer points for outlets and other heavier-duty work. The only real issue, which seems like quite an oversight, is that neither of these meters has temperature functions.

Product Specs 

• Style: Digital and clamp
• Functions: Voltage, amperage, resistance, frequency, capacitance, duty cycle, clamp
• Included probes: Test leads

What We Like

• Excellent leads allow you to adjust the length of the exposed contact
• Provides virtually all the functions the average DIYer could need during most electronics repairs or electrical projects
• A noncontact tester is convenient and keeps users safe when working with unknown circuit conditions

What We Don’t Like

• Lacks a temperature function for checking ductwork or motor temperatures

Get the Fluke 117/323 multimeter at Amazon.

Best for Basic DIY

Fluke 107 Pocket Digital Multimeter

See It

Those who are in the market for a multimeter that will serve most of their purposes without being overly complicated will want to take a look at the Fluke 107 pocket digital multimeter. It has a simple design with functions for testing voltage, amperage, resistance, capacitance, and even frequency. It comes with a basic set of test leads as well as a magnetic strap that can hang from an electrical box or pipe for hands-free use.

The Fluke 107 is not the fanciest model in our lineup, but we truly enjoyed its simplicity. It easily tests voltage, amperage, and resistance and has a separate switch for continuity—those functions alone are more than what the average DIYer may ever need. We like that it has a backlight and a large screen, and the magnetic strap can double over and act as a stand. Our main complaint is the lack of both a carrying case and storage clips in the back for the leads, so storing the meter could be an issue.

Product Specs 

• Style: Digital
• Functions: Voltage, amperage, resistance, capacitance
• Included probes: Test leads

What We Like

• Simple design with plenty of basic functionality keeps things uncomplicated for the basic DIYer
• Large display with backlight makes getting accurate readings easier, even in dark conditions
• Magnetic strap acts as a stand to provide 2 methods of hands-free testing

What We Don’t Like

• Storage is an issue, as it doesn’t come with a carrying case or a spot to snap the leads into

Get the Fluke 107 multimeter at Amazon or