What To Look For in a Multimeters
In this guide we’ll take a look at the best multimeters for the UK market.
We’ve compared functions, quality, screen display and cost
to give you our top recommendations.
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In this guide we’ll take a look at the best multimeters for the UK market.
We’ve compared functions, quality, screen display and cost
to give you our top recommendations.
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The DM6000AR digital multimeter is one of the best digital multimeters because it’s a professional level device with tons of features, and the backlit display is incredibly easy to read from any angle.
Automotive gadget whizz-kids AstroAI are a one-stop-shop when it comes to everything from IR thermometers to in car fridges. We thought we’d check out their digital multimeter and put it through its paces. You can test for Voltage, current, resistance, continuity, capacitance, frequency, and it even tests Diodes, transistors and temperature.
The case feels robust and it’s easy to hold when in use. The probes and cables feel like they’re made well and should last for a long time, but what makes this the best multimeter for cars is the simple magnetic holder on the back. If you’re working under your bonnet you don’t have to worry about it falling into the engine bay.
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Electronics brand Proster make several multimeters for professional and home use, so we decided to try out one of their premium offerings- the VC99. This 6000 count multimeter is highly accurate and because it’s auto-ranging, you don’t have to set the level of Voltage, resistance or current prior to testing.
The build quality is excellent, and the rubber sleeve makes this multimeter easy to hold and should protect it from the inevitable knocks and drops that it’ll pick up around the home or garage. The dial feels solid and clicks between the settings nicely, and the probes are the pen style ones that are easy to use.
The audio continuity reading is a nice touch as well- it beeps based on the resistance measured in the component you’re testing. It’s not a unique feature to this device, but the best digital multimeter needs to include this setting.
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If you’re looking for the best cheap multimeter on this list, you’ve found it- Ultrics have managed to fit a lot of functionality into a small package with their UT0021YB digital multimeter. Small enough to slip into your pocket, this is a much more portable device compared to the others on this list.
The blue LCD screen is backlit and easy to read from any angle and the case feels rugged enough. The probes are sharp enough to test on the smallest patch of bare metal which makes it easy to get a good reading, and they throw in the 9 Volt battery required for operation.
Even though it doesn’t include some of the finer measurements found in the competition such as a temperature reading probe, it’s still the best budget multimeter UK that we’ve tested out. At 2000 count, it’s not quite as accurate either, but for DIY electronics use it’s more than adequate. If you need a multimeter to throw in your toolbox or car, this is the best choice for you.
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Electronics brand BEVA have turned their hand to all things electronic and make quality test equipment, computer accessories and wireless chargers. We got hold of their W-001 digital multimeter to see how it compares against the competition.
This is another full size multimeter measuring 18 x 9 cm, with a durable rubber case that makes it easy to keep hold of. It’s accurate up to 6000 counts and can automatically select the range of current, Voltage or resistance for you.
Alongside the functions you would expect from the best digital multimeter in this price range, the clever non-contact Voltage function can be used to detect live cables behind stud walls. A useful function if you want to drill holes in a wall and avoid disaster.
If you want a professional level multimeter with temperature probes and audio feedback, try out this BEVA product.
If you want to test batteries, electrical appliances or your vehicle, you need the best multimeter for cars or the home that you can get your hands on. Here’s what you need to look out for:
All multimeters worth using will measure Voltage, current and resistance. Even the best cheap multimeter will measure AC and DC current, capacity and continuity.
Some digital multimeters feature auto-ranging capabilities, meaning that they will automatically detect the correct voltage, resistance or current of the device you’re testing. You can always manually switch them if you want.
More advanced multimeters include maximum display counts for testing over time as well as hold functions. Some of the best multimeters in the UK even have temperature probes and non-contact voltage detectors.
Multimeters are often used in tough environments, so having a durable rubber case to protect against knocks and drops is essential.
To keep your multimeter in the right spot, they often come with flip-out stands, but the best multimeters have magnets on the back or hooks to hang them where you need them most.
And for low light conditions, a backlit display is more than useful.
You can’t effectively fault find problems with electrical equipment without a multimeter. They’re essential bits of kit for mechanics, engineers and keen DIYers. We’ve tested some of the best multimeters available right now and found a clear winner- the AstroAI DM600AR has a useful magnetic hook, a brilliant backlit screen and the best quality probes that we’ve come across.
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