The 28 best analog multimeter brands
Amprobe, RadioShack and Triplett lead our ranking of 28 analog multimeter brands. Compare what each brand makes, visit its official site, or shop it online.
Analog Multimeter brands, ranked
TSCentral is reader-supported: we may earn a commission when you shop through links on this page. It does not affect the ranking.
-
1
Amprobe
Clamp-style and snap-around analog meters that electricians use to check live circuits without disconnecting them.
Top products: RS1000· AM-1A· RS3
Website: amprobe.com |Brands like Amprobe
Popularity 10.0/10
-
2
RadioShack
Own-label pocket meters sold through its stores in the Micronta era, such as the eight-range 22-218.
Website: radioshack.com |Brands like RadioShack
Popularity 8.6/10
-
3
Triplett
Long-running US maker of VOMs, with the Model 615 maintenance tester and rugged portable analog meters.
Top products: Model 615· Model 310· 630-PL
Website: triplett.com |Brands like Triplett
Popularity 8.4/10
-
4
Hioki
Precision meter maker whose Hi Tester line includes analog testers with leads and carrying cases.
Top products: TH-1· Hi Tester Model 3000
Popularity 8.0/10
-
5
Sperry
Instrument-side VOMs with ohms and battery checks, a small sideline beside its footwear business.
Website: sperry.com |Brands like Sperry
Popularity 7.9/10
-
6
Sanwa
Japanese meter maker whose analog multimeters range from high-sensitivity FET models to 30A automotive testers.
Top products: EM7000· TA55· YX361TR
Website: sanwa-denshi.com |Brands like Sanwa
Popularity 7.7/10
-
7
Fluke
Fluke makes digital multimeters for electricians, technicians and HVAC/R service crews who troubleshoot electrical and electronic systems. Its handheld and benchtop meters include autoranging models and designs built for harsh work sites. The brand also offers cable testers for network and installation work.
Website: fluke.com |Brands like Fluke
Popularity 7.3/10
-
8
Gardner Bender
Budget-friendly electrical test tools, including pocket five-function analog multimeters like the GMT-312.
Top products: GMT-312
Website: gardnerbender.com |Brands like Gardner Bender
Popularity 6.9/10
-
9
Ideal
Electricians and DIY wiremen rely on Ideal's wire strippers and other electrical hand tools for clean, consistent cuts. The company's name also appears on water heaters, dolls and board games, which come from separate product lines that sit apart from...
Popularity 5.0/10
-
10
ANENG
Low-cost multimeter maker from Guangdong, mostly making inexpensive digital and clamp meters.
Website: aneng.aliexpress.com |Brands like ANENG
Popularity 4.6/10
-
11
UEi
Kane-owned test tool brand selling multimeters with warranties, plus refrigerant and humidity testers.
Website: ueitest.com |Brands like UEi
Popularity 4.0/10
-
12
RCA
Tube-era volt-ohm-milliammeter WV-38A, a classic bench-style analog meter from the vacuum tube age.
Top products: WV-38A
Website: rcaaudiovideo.com |Brands like RCA
Popularity 3.9/10
-
13
Commercial Electric
Home Depot house brand whose inexpensive analog meters include the M1015B.
Website: commercialelectric.com |Brands like Commercial Electric
Popularity 3.6/10
-
14
-
15
Lafayette
This 21st century is the century of technology. Several instruments are coming into the market, which makes human life easy. Several people are doing innovations to produce the latest technology equipment. Lafayette is one such brand of instruments. Customers will...
Popularity 3.4/10
-
16
Superior
Superior designs universal remote controls manufactured by Superior Electronics in Italy. Its programmable models can be set up from a PC and cover a large library of codes. The remotes control up to four audio and video devices, including TVs,...
Popularity 3.0/10
-
17
GE
GE Lighting has been leading the lighting technology industry for over 130 years. Its mission is to provide customers with a first-class smart home experience. To do so, it has created novel lighting products designed to improve one's lifestyle and...
Website: gelighting.com |Brands like GE
Popularity 2.8/10
-
18
Greenlee
Greenlee, under professional supervision, manufactures high-quality hardware for use in machines to generate yield. They provide domestic electrical tools as well as HVAC and plumbing professional supplies. Blending equipment from them boosts production and improves quality while using less capital....
Website: greenlee.com |Brands like Greenlee
Popularity 2.8/10
-
19
B&K Precision
Test instrument maker selling affordable bench and handheld meters, including older analog testers.
Top products: Model 120P
Website: bkprecision.com |Brands like B&K Precision
Popularity 2.7/10
-
20
Klein Tools
For decades, Klein Tools has provided professional quality tools that offer high performance and durability. Their primary focus is on quality and safety, and they make their products with the best and most durable materials. They are a highly known...
Website: kleintools.com |Brands like Klein Tools
Popularity 2.7/10
-
21
Knight
Knight Tubs was established in 1984. They manufacture and sell Jacuzzi hot tubs to customers. Nothing is more luxurious than taking a dip in the Jacuzzi at your home after a rough day. The products help you relax and enjoy...
Popularity 2.5/10
-
22
Heathkit
Kit maker that sold build-it-yourself analog VOMs and test gear alongside its audio equipment.
Website: heathkit.com |Brands like Heathkit
Popularity 2.5/10
-
23
Barnett
Barnett manufactures crossbows, and it also sells archery gloves, bowstrings and crossbow accessories. The brand's budget-friendly bow gear is sold to hunters and archers.
Popularity 2.5/10
-
24
Calrad
Mail-order electronics brand that sold imported Japanese VOMs such as the TK-101.
Top products: TK-101
Website: calrad.com |Brands like Calrad
Popularity 2.3/10
-
25
Megger
Megger is a leading manufacturer of electric test equipment, including items like circuit breaker testers, insulation testers, etc. For about 130 years, they have been making products that can be used everywhere in the electric supply network. The company's equipment...
Website: megger.com |Brands like Megger
Popularity 2.2/10
-
26
Midland
Cheap pocket VOMs from its radio-maker side, such as the 23-101, with basic ohms and voltage ranges.
Website: midlandusa.com |Brands like Midland
Popularity 2.1/10
-
27
Craftsman
Sears-era house brand that sold basic pocket multimeters such as the 82411.
Top products: 82411
Website: craftsman.com |Brands like Craftsman
Popularity 2.1/10
-
28
Honeywell
Development is not a new term that was introduced recently but was in existence for a long period. The success of every business and its associates always leads to the development of society. Honeywell is one of the leading groups...
Website: honeywell.com |Brands like Honeywell
Popularity 2.1/10
Official websites and social accounts
| Brand | Website | X / Twitter | YouTube | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Amprobe | amprobe.com | /amprobe | amprobetools | – | AmprobeTest |
| RadioShack | radioshack.com | /RadioShack | radioshack | @radioshack | RadioShack |
| Triplett | triplett.com | /triplett.testequipmentandtools | triplett_test | @test_tools | Triplett Test Equipment |
| Sperry | sperry.com | – | explore | @sperry | SperryTopSider1935 |
| Sanwa | sanwa-denshi.com | – | – | – | – |
| Fluke | fluke.com | – | – | – | – |
| Gardner Bender | gardnerbender.com | /GardnerBender | – | @gbgardnerbender | Gardner Bender |
| ANENG | aneng.aliexpress.com | – | – | – | – |
Analog Multimeter Buying Guide
Analog multimeters are essential tools for measuring electrical circuits. They are versatile, reliable, and cost-effective. However, with the many models and brands available in the market, choosing the right analog multimeter can be overwhelming. In this buying guide, we discuss important factors to consider when purchasing an analog multimeter.
Accuracy
The accuracy of an analog multimeter is a critical factor to consider. It determines how precise the measurements will be. The accuracy of an analog multimeter is expressed as a percentage of the full scale. For example, an analog multimeter with an accuracy of 2% means that the reading could be off by up to 2% of the full-scale reading.
It is important to note that accuracy is affected by several factors such as temperature, humidity, and the condition of the test leads. To ensure consistent accuracy, it is recommended to calibrate the analog multimeter regularly.
Measurement Range
Analog multimeters are designed to measure various electrical parameters such as voltage, current, and resistance. The measurement range refers to the minimum and maximum values that the analog multimeter can measure. It is important to select an analog multimeter with a measurement range that suits your needs.
For example, if you need to measure low voltages, you will need an analog multimeter with a low voltage measurement range. On the other hand, if you need to measure high voltages or currents, you will need an analog multimeter with a high voltage or current measurement range.
Functionality
Analog multimeters are available in different models with varying functionalities. Some analog multimeters are designed to measure only one electrical parameter, while others can measure several parameters. Some analog multimeters come with additional functionalities such as a continuity tester, diode checker, and battery tester.
When choosing an analog multimeter, it is important to consider the functionality that meets your needs. If you work with complex electrical circuits, you will need an analog multimeter that can measure different parameters and has additional functionalities. However, if you work with simple electrical circuits, a basic analog multimeter with fewer functionalities may suffice.
Sensitivity
Analog multimeters are designed to measure small changes in electrical currents, voltages, and resistances. Sensitivity refers to the ability of an analog multimeter to measure small changes in these parameters. The sensitivity of an analog multimeter is expressed as the smallest detectable change in the value of the parameter being measured.
For example, an analog multimeter with a sensitivity of 20mA means that it can detect changes in the current as small as 20mA. The higher the sensitivity of an analog multimeter, the more accurate the measurements will be.
Build Quality
The build quality of an analog multimeter is an important factor to consider. Analog multimeters are designed to last for many years, and therefore, you should invest in a model with a sturdy and durable construction. A poorly constructed analog multimeter can easily break or malfunction, leading to inaccurate measurements and the need for frequent replacements.
When choosing an analog multimeter, look for a model with a robust housing, durable test leads, and high-quality components. You should also ensure that the analog multimeter is designed to withstand rough handling and extreme environments.
Brand Reputation
The brand reputation of an analog multimeter is another important factor to consider. Reputable brands are known for producing high-quality, reliable, and accurate analog multimeters. They also offer excellent customer support and after-sales services such as warranty and technical support.
When choosing an analog multimeter, it is recommended to opt for a model from a reputable brand. This will assure you of the quality and reliability of the analog multimeter and ensure that you receive excellent customer support in case of any issues.
Price
The price of an analog multimeter varies depending on the model and brand. Basic analog multimeters with fewer functionalities are generally cheaper than models with more functionalities. However, the price should not be the sole factor determining your choice of an analog multimeter.
It is important to select an analog multimeter that meets your needs in terms of accuracy, measurement range, functionality, sensitivity, and build quality. While it may be tempting to opt for a cheaper model, you may end up spending more in the long run if the analog multimeter is not accurate or durable.
Conclusion
In conclusion, choosing the right analog multimeter requires careful consideration of various factors such as accuracy, measurement range, functionality, sensitivity, build quality, brand reputation, and price. By selecting an analog multimeter that meets your needs and preferences, you can ensure that you measure electrical circuits with accuracy, reliability, and safety.