10 Best Pocket Multimeters – Reviewed & Buying Guide
If you’re looking for a pocket-sized multimeter, look no further.In this thorough guide, we’ll look at some of the best pocket multimeters on the market right now. We will also tell you in detail about each product’s features, benefits, and drawbacks.Electricians, engineers, and other people who work with electrical systems need to use multimeters. You can measure voltage, current, and resistance with them.
A multimeter can also be used to check for continuity and figure out what’s wrong with an electric circuit. There are a lot of different kinds of multimeters on the market, but pocket multimeters are the easiest and most portable multimeter. You can put these small measuring tools in your pocket or toolbox, and they are perfect for taking measurements in tight spaces. When picking a pocket multimeter, you should think about what features you need. Some multimeters have more features than others, and some can do certain jobs better than others.
Recommended: Fluke 101
We would be glad to share our strategy here. First, we extracted the multimeters on the basis; of what customers say. In the second step, we discussed its other features including overload protection, accuracy, portability, quality, indicators, range, and multiple others. It is not necessary to have all of the necessary functions in a single gadget.
In the past, large sized multimeter’s were used that were difficult to replace. With time, these multimeters evolved as technology. Now, the market is filled with pocket sized multimeters.
The good point is that this product is free to use from DIY to professional levels. You do not need to worry about accuracy. As the result would be genuine with great quality. Keep in mind, these are just small to look at but offer the same level of functionality as older types. Even technology is more batter.
Table of Contents
10 Best Pocket Multimeter
1. Fluke-106 Esp Palm-sized Digital Multimeter
The Fluke-106 Esp Palm-sized Digital Multimeter is a great choice for electricians, HVAC technicians, and other professionals who need a reliable and accurate digital multimeter. This multimeter features a large back-lit display that makes it easy to read in low light conditions, and a built-in non-contact voltage detector that helps you quickly and safely identify live electrical circuits. The Fluke-106 also has a variety of other features that make it an excellent choice for any professional who needs a quality digital multimeter.
If you’re looking for a reliable and accurate digital multimeter, the Fluke-106 Esp Palm-sized Digital Multimeter is an excellent choice. This multimeter features a large back-lit display that makes it easy to read in low light conditions, and a built-in non-contact voltage detector that helps you quickly and safely identify live electrical circuits. The Fluke-106 also has a variety of other features that make it an excellent choice for any professional who needs a quality digital multimeter.
Key Features:
- Digit LCD display with a back-light for easy reading in low light conditions
- Auto ranging for quick and accurate measurements
- Data hold function to freeze the reading on the screen
- Min/Max function to record fluctuations over time
- Micro-amps measurement capability for testing low current devices
- Durable design with an IP54 rating for use in dusty and wet environments
What inside box:
- Digital multimeter
- TL75 Test leads
- 2 AAA batteries
- User manual
Design:
The Fluke-106 is a palm-sized digital multimeter that is designed for use in the field. This meter has a large, easy-to-read display and simple controls. It is powered by a 9V battery and has a range of functions including continuity testing, diode testing, and AC/DC voltage and current measurement.
LCD Screen:
The large LCD screen on the Fluke-106 makes it easy to read measurements.
Reliability:
The Fluke 106 is a very reliable digital multimeter. It is backed by a 3-year warranty.
Range of functions:
Fluke-106 has a wide range of functions, including continuity testing, diode testing, and AC/DC voltage and current measurement.
Portability:
The Fluke-106 is a very portable digital multimeter. It is powered by a 9V battery and is small enough to fit in a pocket.
Safety:
The Fluke-106 is a safe and reliable digital multimeter. It is designed with safety in mind and has a wide range of safety features.
PROS:
- You can take this meter anywhere since it is small enough to fit in your pocket. This is especially useful if you’re working in cramped spaces.
- The large digital display is easy to read.
- The battery life is excellent.
- Data hold and peak hold functions are very useful.
CONS:
- There is no temperature measurement function.
- The included test leads are not the best quality.
2. ALLOSUN Pocket Size Digital Multimeter
ALLOSUN Pocket Size Digital Multimeter Auto Range Multi Tester (EM3082 Auto Range) is a must-have for any beginner or professional electrician. It is useful for testing voltage, current, and resistance in electrical circuits. The multimeter also includes a flashlight for use in low-light situations.
This pocket-sized multimeter is simple to use. It also comes with a pouch for easy travel. It’s simple to use, fits in your pocket, and comes with a carrying pouch to make it portable. The multimeter is useful for measuring voltage, current, and resistance in electrical circuits. It is an essential tool for any electrician, whether at home or on the job.
Key Features:
- Digits LCD with a maximum reading of 1999
- Overload protection on all ranges
- Auto power off and battery save function
- Diode test, transistor hFE test, continuity buzzer test
- Data hold function
- Large and easy to read digital display
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
What inside box:
- ALLOSUN EM3082 multimeter
- English Manual;
- 1.5V button cell,
- LR44,
- 2 piece
Multi Functions:
The pocket size multimeter can be used to measure AC/DC voltage, DC current, resistance, continuity and diode. It is a great tool for electricians, hobbyists or general household use.
Overload Protection:
This multimeter is designed with overload protection on all ranges, which can protect the meter and extend its lifetime.
Data Hold & Auto Off:
The data hold function allows you to freeze readings on the screen for easy reading and recording. The auto off function helps to conserve battery power.
Low Battery Indicator:
The low battery indicator lets you know when it’s time to replace the batteries.
LCD Screen:
You will get a larger LCD screen. Looking at the readings is also very easy due to the built-in back-light.
Auto Power Off:
This multimeter will be automatically turned off after 20 minutes of inactivity, which can save power and extend the battery life.
PROS:
- Compact and lightweight
- Digital readout is clear and easy to read
- Auto ranging makes it easy to use
CONS:
- Instructions could be more clear
- Digital readout can be hard to see in bright light
3. Amprobe PM55A Pocket Multimeter with Non-Contact Voltage Detection
The Amprobe PM55A is a multimeter that fits in your pocket and can detect voltage without touching it. It’s a great tool for electricians, HVAC techs, and other professionals who need to test for voltage in tight spaces quickly and accurately. The PM55A has a big LCD screen that makes it easy to read. It also has an auto-off feature that saves battery life and a built-in flashlight for working in dark places. It also comes with a carrying pouch to keep it safe and make it easy to store.
Key Features:
- Non-contact voltage detection
- Meet IEC standards
- AutoTech features
- Safety class of 3 and 2 for 300V and 600V, respectively
- Low input impedance
- Automatic power off
- Accessories included
- The power source is corded electric
- 7.4 ounces in weight
what inside box:
- Amprobe PM55A
- Test leads
- User manual
- 3V battery
Functions:
You are going to get 600V current and voltage. It measures the resistance value of 6 MΩ. Other values to measure are frequency, micro-current, and capacitance.
Accuracy:
With the linear load, you are offered to have a correct value of current. This is so, that lets you enjoy accurate readings all the time.
Safe detection:
The voltage measurement with zero contact makes it very safe. So you can carry on your task with good protection. Plus, it fulfils the IEC safety standard with class 2 and 3 certifications for 600V and 300V, respectively.
Impedance:
The input impedance is extremely low that is very efficient to deliver an extra layer of protection. The AutoTech function is behind this role.
Power:
A battery of 3V power delivers the basic spark. The power will shut down automatically in 10 minutes of non-use. This strategy aims to save battery life.
Screen:
It comes with a 6000 counts LCD screen that can be read easily. It displays a maximum of 5999 units.
PROS:
- Amazing quality
- No safety issue
- Variety of measurements
- Large display screen
- Reliable test reading
- Light in weight
- Thin and small
CONS
- Plastic case swells in the heat
- Not durable
- Screen not clear
4. Amprobe DM78C Credit Card Size Digital Multimeter
Amprobe DM78C is a credit-card sized digital multimeter (DMM) that is packed with features usually found in much larger and more expensive DMMs. The DM78C is the perfect tool for electricians, HVAC technicians, automotive enthusiasts and do-it-yourselfers who need a reliable and easy-to-use DMM.
Key Features:
- Credit card size.
- Auto ranging.
- True RMS measurements.
- Measures AC/DC voltage and current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, duty cycle and temperature.
- Built-in flashlight.
- Large LED backlit display.
- Maximum reading of 3999.
- Continuity beeper with threshold selector switch.
What inside box:
- Amprobe DM78C
- Test leads
- User manual
Functions
In addition to voltage, current, and resistance; you are free to measure continuity and diode. You can say that it is offering some advanced measurements.
Audible detection
You will get the audible sound when checking continuity and diode testing. In this way, you come to know that the electricity is passing through the circuit.
Power
Get the update about when battery replacement is needed. This is offered by a low battery indicator. The screen would turn off automatically after 10 minutes of non-use. This is the strategy to save power.
Battery
Its battery timing can serve you for 70 hours with non-stop service. Note that the battery is already installed in this unit when it comes to you.
Display
With a 3200 display count, it has an easy screen reading. You would see an analog bar graph on the display.
Safety
It enjoys IEC safety certification to give the protecting service.
PROS
- Smallest in size
- 6.3 ounces in weight
- Automatic power off
- Accurate reading
- Super portable
- Good in price
CONS
- Low-quality case
- Test leads are skinny
- No continuity beeps
5. UNI-T UT120C 3 3/4 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
UNI-T UT120C is an amazing model that has a good LCD screen with an automatic power-off system. It is powered by a battery and ready to use everywhere.
Quick Summary:
- 3999 count
- Auto-ranging system
- Automatic power off
- LCD screen
- Ready to use
- Auto-ranging system
- Multiple functions
- 2.8 ounces in weight
- Powered by battery
What inside box:
- UNI-T UT120C 3 3/4 Multimeter
- Test leads
- User manual
It is an advanced type of model that not only measures current, voltage, and resistance; it offers you to calculate continuity, capacitance, and diode. The selection is your own choice according to requirements.
Display
Its LCD screen is very easy to read. Plus, it is very large to offer a convenient reading. You are ready to have 3999 counts with this unit.
Size
This model is just like a notebook in thickness. You can carry it anywhere you want. This product is always ready to serve you happily.
Power
The battery is the main source that powers this unit. This product is very active to save power. It gets shut down automatically to save battery life after 30 minutes of non-usage. The battery is the lithium-manganese type to offer enough power.
Safety
It offers great safety with a double layer of insulation. The display will inform you when there is going to be overloading.
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PROS
- Easy to read display
- Save battery
- Small size
- Light in weight
- Not too pricey
CONS
- Floating numbers
- Need care while the use
6. Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter
The Fluke is a well-known brand that offers high-quality products. Fluke 101 meets the safety standard and saves power automatically.
Quick Summary:
- 0.5% basic accuracy
- The safety rating is CAT III 600V
- Automatic power off
- 10.6 ounces in weight
- The battery cell is alkaline
- Use AAA battery
- Voltage use is 3V
- The battery type is alkaline
What inside box:
- Fluke 101 digital multimeter
- TL75 Test leads
- 2 AAA batteries
- User manual
This model of Fluke can measure voltage and resistance. In addition, you can measure frequency, capacitance, continuity, diode testing, and multiple others. But it does not entertain AC or DC.
Safety
It meets the safety standards to have a confident use. You would get a safety rating of CAT III 600V. Now, you do not need to worry about its protection.
Design
It comes with a durable design and has a plastic cover to overcome wear and tear. You can use it from a single hand as it is amazingly portable and small to carry or fit in your pocket.
Battery
The battery of this unit is very easy to replace. You need a pair of AAA batteries to ensure full power. The meter gets shut down automatically to save the extra power after a couple of minutes.
Accuracy
It comes with an auto-ranging system to have 0.5% basic accuracy. Use it confidently and never worry about results.
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- Durable profile
- Light in weight
- Easy battery replacement
- Smaller size
- Plastic cover for safety
CONS
- No backlight
- Not measure AC or DC current
7. AstroAI AM33D Digital Multimeter
From basic to advanced, AstroAl AM33D measures every type of value. You can go for this product with good confidence due to the backlight button, support stand, large LCD screen, and much more.
Quick Summary:
- Dual fuse
- Troubleshoot safety
- Hold button
- Range switch
- COM jack
- Support stand with maximum 120 angle
- Weight is 8.8 ounce
- Made up of ABS
- LCD screen
What inside box:
- Astroai am33d digital multimeter
- Test leads
- 9V 6F22 Battery
- User Manual
You can use this product for resistance, current, or voltage measurement. Additionally, you can measure diode, continuity, and other similar values with this unit. Keep in your mind that AstroAl AM33D does not entertain AC.
Ensure the correct setting before its use.
Protection
In addition to home electronics, you can fix automotive issues. Use it on all ranges and it would let you know about overloading. In short, it is very effective to offer you overload protection.
Display
It has a wider digital display. You can use it in the area with the least light. This is due to the support of LCD backlit.
Fuse
It comes with two fuses to offer anti-burn services. This feature does not provide by every type of multimeter.
Profile
It comes with an integrated stand to offer hand-free use. You can open this stand to the maximum level of 120 degrees. Here is a plastic cover to offer protection from wear and tear.
Jack
It comes with three jacks that include a COM jack, 10A jack, and voltage jack.
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PROS
- Anti-burn feature
- Accurate readings
- Easy usage
- Overcurrent protection
- Protective rubber
CONS
- No AC current measurement
- Does not calculate AC voltage
8. CRAFTSMAN 3482141 Digital Multimeter
This is an amazing model of Craftsman that features an audible tone and multiple functions. With the plastic construction, it is very light in weight.
Quick Summary:
- 8 functions
- Audible sound
- 2 megaohm resistance
- 18 ranges
- Alkaline battery type
- Use AA battery
- 14.4 ounces in weight
- Made up of plastic
What inside box:
- CRAFTSMAN 3482141
- Test leads
- 2 AA batteries
You can measure alternating current, voltage, and resistance. The value of resistance that can be measured with this product is 2 mega Ohms. You can fix household and automobile electrical issues.
Plus, diode testing is also offered by this unit. Collectively, it comes with 18 ranges and 8 functions to make its usage wider.
Tone
You will hear a clear tone when the resistance gets lower than 30 Ohms. This service is offered to ensure proper wiring.
Display
The screen can be read very easily with the 2 count display. It is wide enough for proper services.
Battery
This battery has the nicer capacity to shut off automatically. This efficient service saves power every time you deal with this product.
It uses an alkaline battery to offer you very well.
Accuracy
You can get accurate results with this meter. It provides next-level sampling to work it for professional purposes.
Cover
A plastic cover wraps this model. If it drops accidentally, there would be zero damage. This feature makes worry-less usage possible.
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- Good for professionals
- Accurate results
- Advanced working
- Small in size
- Worth the money
CONS
- Very thick design
- Hard rubber cover
- No clamp ammeter
9. ALLOSUN EM3081 Digital Multimeter
This model of ALLOSUN comes with a briefcase like the design. That makes the operation extremely easy. It manages the whole function with a single fuse. You can get this product if you want negative polarity, over range, or low battery indication.
Quick Summary:
- Cover is foldable
- Use a single fuse
- Fast results
- 250m Amp current
- 250 volts
- 1999 readings limit
- 1.5 volts button cell
- Multiple functions
- Over-range indication
What inside box:
- ALLOSUN Digital Multimeter
- Test leads
- 2 LR44 batteries
In addition to current, voltage, and resistance; you can have continuity and diode testing with it. Both types of alternating and direct voltage get the entertainment. If we talk about current, you only can get values of DC.
Power
A battery is the main source to offer the required power. A pair of button cells with a power of 1.5 volts is enough to deliver the power. The manufacturer recommends you remove the rear panel followed by the removal of an insulating layer on the battery.
Display
You can have a maximum reading of 1999 counts on this display. It has a three ½ digit LCD. Read the results very clearly with the help of a larger display.
Design
Its profile is just like a box. You are ready to carry it away with great ease. This meter can be folded like a case. This design makes its operation super easy.
Size
Although its size is too small to fit in the picket, it is full of amazing functions.
Indication
It features the over range and negative polarity indication. In the case of over range, you would see “1” on the screen. The negative polarity is shown by the negative sign on the screen. Additionally, when its battery becomes lower than a specific limit, you would get the mark at once.
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- Simple battery replacement
- Easy to operate
- Smart size
- Low battery indication
- Smaller than smartphone
CONS
- Case opening is difficult
- Too small to use Velcro
- Instructions not clear
10. Aoputtriver AP4201 mini digital multimeter
This model of Aoouttriver is very handy and less pricey. It comes with a scan function that is not provided by other models. You do not need to worry about overload as it’s too efficient to control it.
Quick Summary:
- 110 grams in weight
- Multiple functions
- Overload protection
- Scan function
- Automatic shut down
- Low battery detection
- Auto range
- LCD monitor
- Gear switch
What inside box:
- ALLOSUN Digital Multimeter
- Test leads
- 2 LR44 batteries
Multiple function
You can get the voltage and resistance values with this model. It can entertain both AC and DC voltage with the value of 0 to 450 volts. While the current measuring range is 40 mega Ohms. Plus, food testing and continuity measure with buzzers are additional jobs.
Protection
A case is here to protect the body of this multimeter. It can handle the overload with extreme ease. These features make its life a bit longer.
The warning tone is always produced as the two wires get in touch. This feature makes another layer of protection with its usage.
Portable
With its small size, this multimeter is portable to use. Use it anywhere you want and you are free to use it for DIY purposes in the laboratory, home, shop, and others.
Moreover, it is very thin to fit in your hand just like a smartphone.
Display
It comes with a wider and brighter screen. This display is very easy to read. You can get a maximum of 4000 display digits on this display.
Automation
This unit is very efficient to save power. It gets shut down automatically after a couple of non-use minutes. It needs a pair of 1.5 volts batteries to carry on its job.
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- Safe to use
- Portable device
- Convenient usage
- Continuous buzzer
- Sound over leads touch
CONS
- May have a quality issue
- May blew up
Buying guide
This is a time to offer you the multimeter exactly according to your demand. All the selected multimeters, discussed above, may not be feasible to you. Our list does not mean to go blind and pick anyone. Before purchase, you should focus on some features to find the multimeter of your choice. In addition to range and accuracy, it is necessary to go through the budget, quality, warranty, and multiple other features. Let us have an insight into these.
Auto-ranging
In the past few years, the market was full of manual multimeters. Is that type the user has to set the range manually? This was a bit tricky and only done by professionals. Now, there are automatic meters that identify the range automatically. It stops the need to call a professional and welcome the beginners to do it themselves. In short, get the auto-ranging multimeter to save time and money.
Functions
You know! The multimeter offers you to calculate current, voltage, and resistance. These measurements are offered by basic types of meters. Others come with advanced functions like calculation of frequency, capacitance, diode testing, continuity, temperature, and similar others. It means that all products come with a unique set of functions. Go for one that is meeting your demand. Sit a while, take time, and decide what your most demanding features are.
Safety
Dealing with electronics is jot the game of children. There are many insecurities with safety as a major. Always go for the product that offers a good safety rating. This would soothe your conscious and unconscious, both while working. If you have to spend a bit higher $ on your multimeter, do it for the sake of safety. You know! Life cannot be put at risk at any rate.
Accuracy
Accuracy is one of the main features that put the multimeter useless when not included in the package. There is no need to use the multimeter when it does not offer accurate value. This is the reason that makes the use of accuracy too valuable. Check the accuracy and purchase after satisfaction
Budget
While buying a multimeter we would not recommend you to go for a cheaper unit. It might put your life in danger. Try to increase your budget and purchase the meter with good safety, excellent quality, and accurate results.
Supportive features
One should never neglect the supportive features. Most multimeters come with some basic aspects while others give wide functionalities. They may offer over current protection, over-voltage protection, and overload protection.
Secondly, if you look at the indicators, then you may get low battery indicators, negative polarity indicators, and multiple other types. These are the functions not offered by all kinds of multimeters. Only advanced types give these features. The choice is yours. You can pick the one that seems most suitable to you. The availability of these features may depend upon the price and brand. A cheap unit with a good brand may come with these functions. In short, the situation varies from type to type. It depends on you for what function you go for.
FAQs
Our top 3 picks are;
1. CRAFTSMAN 3482141 Digital Multimeter
2. Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter
3. AstroAI AM33D Digital Multimeter
The top brands that give the best multimeters are AstroAl, Amprobe, and Fluke.
Yes, a cheap multimeter may offer great services. Their quality also depends on the brand. If there is a little voltage to be measured, they would serve you for sure. Just, try to avoid putting the extra burden over it.
The cost of the multimeter should be according to the task. If you are a professional and have to deal with larger voltage, then it is worthy to down a good over multimeter. For DIY or home, you can buy a bit cheaper multimeter.
Conclusion
In this section, we are going to conclude about the best pocket multimeter. Today’s market is filled with a large type of multimeter but pocket-sized products are easy to use and manage. It offers the same quality as a bit larger size.
After reading this article, we are hoping that you will find the multimeter that would be your best choice in the future.
Our Recommendation
In this part, we aim to recommend the two best pocket multimeters. One is CRAFTSMAN 3482141 Digital Multimeter. You can get this unit if your budget is strong. It comes with 8 functions and 12 ranges. The other type of multimeter is AstroAI AM33D Digital Multimeter. It is a budget-friendly product and comes with a dual switch to bypass the burning issue.
Table of comparison of the Best Pocket Multimeters
Product Name | Weight | Voltage | Current | Warranty |
---|---|---|---|---|
Proster PST093 pocket digital multimeter | 240 g | AC and DC | DC | 1.5 years |
AUTOOL DM mini Digital multimeter | 160 g | AC and DC | AC and DC | 2 years |
Amprobe PM55A Pocket Multimeter | 210 g | AC and DC | AC and DC | 1 year |
Amprobe DM78C Digital Multimeter | 180 g | AC and DC | AC and DC | 1 year |
UNI-T UT120C 3 3/4 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter | 198 g | AC and DC | AC and DC | — |
Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter | 301 g | AC and DC | — | — |
AstroAI AM33D Digital Multimeter | 249 g | AC and DC | AC | 1 year |
ALLOSUN EM3081 Digital Multimeter | 100 g | AC and DC | DC | — |
CRAFTSMAN 3482141 Digital Multimeter | 408 g | AC and DC | AC and DC | 1 year |
Aoputtriver AP4201 mini digital multimeter | 110 g | AC and DC | — | 2 year |