Choosing the right multimeter tool is crucial for those who want to measure voltages, currents, or resistance. Several types of tools are available, each with pros and cons. How do you decide which to purchase first? Or which one works the best in your situation?
Knowing which is the best multimeter for millivolts will help you find the right one for yourself.
Multimeters come in two basic forms: analog and digital. Analog multimeters measure current using a needle or dial. Digital multimeters typically feature a backlit LCD screen, allowing them to display readings onto the device easily.
These tools can also read voltage directly from circuit boards or attached probes. Some models include oscilloscopes (digital signal analyzers), spectrum analyzers, or LED indicators.
Choosing a multimeter isn’t easy, especially if you don’t know what features you need. Before buying a new multimeter, consider these questions: What kind of measurements would you like to perform? Will you connect a probe?
Continue reading the article to learn how to choose a multimeter as a beginner.
What Will You Use it For?
The most common uses for multimeters are checking voltage and current on circuits. These tests require a probe that connects to the device being tested. Most multimeters have built-in probes, but some models also offer external ones. [1]
If your multimeter doesn’t have an internal probe, you may be able to use a standard test lead instead. Test leads are designed to contact electrical components and allow you to check voltage or current. They’re usually soldered onto a printed circuit board so that they won’t work on all devices.
After confirming the use case for your Multimeter then, you can continue with the rest of the things you need to look for before buying a multimeter tool.
What Kinds of Tests Do You Want to Perform?
Most multimeters have at least one function that allows you to measure voltage or resistance. Depending on what you’re going to use it for, you might only need a few different functions.
For example, many people buy a multimeter just to check voltage and resistance. You’ll probably find that you need a combination of these features to cover all of your testing needs.
Read our review about the Klein tools multimeter mm400.
Others prefer more advanced devices such as a spectrum analyzer, oscilloscope, or digital signal analyzer. Keep in mind to get the multimeter that only has the features that you need, in order to save money and not get unnecessary features you’re not going to use.
How to Choose the Best Multimeter?
Keep these things in mind when choosing the best multimeter for homeowners, and you will select the best one in the market. Here are the things to consider when choosing a multimeter:
- Features
- Price
- Size
- Power supply requirements
- Warranty
Features
A good multimeter for home use has the following features:
- A large display
- Backlight
- Auto Calibration
- Memory
- Data logging
- USB interface
- Internal memory
- Accuracy
Some multimeters have high accuracy, while others have lower accuracy. The higher the number, the better the accuracy. For example, a 10-digit multimeter is accurate within 0.1%. [2]
Price
Multimeters cost anywhere from $10 to over $100. Prices vary depending on the model, brand, features, and other factors.
Size
Many multimeters are small enough to fit into a pocket or a working bag, making them convenient to carry around. However, some models are bigger but offer ways to handle and hold.
Power Supply Requirements
A multimeter, whether analog, digital, or both, usually requires a working battery for its operation. The Analog Multimeter only needs the energy from the battery when measuring resistance. However, a Digital Multimeter Requires energy all the time since it has a Display to power on. Usually, multimeters use a 9V Battery, but it can change depending on the model.
We’ve also reviewed Fluke Multimeter which is a great manufacturer of Multimeters.
Warranty
All multimeters come with a warranty. Some warranties are limited by the manufacturer, while others last forever. Ask about the warranty before you purchase a specific model.
Conclusion
Choosing a multimeter can be hard because there are so many options available. To help you choose the right multimeter, we’ve provided information about what each feature does and how to determine which features are most beneficial for you.
We hope this guide helps you choose the perfect multimeter for your needs! If you have any questions or suggestions about the article, don’t hesitate to leave them in the comment section.
