A multimeter is a multipurpose tool that can measure the voltage, current, continuity, and resistance of any electrical device. Multimeters are very useful and can be used for a wide range of home improvement projects.
You can use one to test old batteries, test light bulbs, troubleshoot electrical wiring issues, and more. There are also fun science experiments that can be done with a multimeter.
This article will review several multimeters and give you some pointers on what to look for in a multimeter. When you have finished reading, you will be able to find the best multimeters under $50.
A Quick Look at the Best Multimeters
| Rank | Photo | Brand | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1. |  | Neoteck | |
| 2. |  | Extech | |
| 3. |  | Etekcity | |
| 4. |  | Proster | |
| 5. |  | Thsinde | |
| 6. |  | Tacklife | |
| 7. |  | FaraDigi |
7 Best Multimeters Under $50 Reviewed
1.Neoteck NTK017
This pocket multimeter can measure current, voltage, resistance, and more with accuracy. It has a large, backlit LED screen to make it easy to see in dimly lit areas, and it also features overload protection. A protective orange shell makes it drop resistant, and the 9-volt battery you will need to use it is included. It might be just the multimeter you need.
Safety- This device meets Euro standards for safety. It uses a PCT protection circuit to give you overload protection. The fuses are double current. This multimeter is high-quality and meets safety standards, so you will not have to worry too much about something bad happening while you are using it.
Specifications- This multimeter has a 2000μF capacitance and a 200KHz frequency. It has a 0.001V resolution for diode checks, and for continuity checks, it has a buzzer that makes a loud sound if the measured resistance is less than 100Ω. It also has a data hold function, low battery indication, and auto power-off.
Features- The sound for the continuity checks on this multimeter is very loud. It comes with the 9-volt battery it requires. In addition to the multimeter and battery, the package also includes a test lead, a banana plug to alligator clip label, and a user manual.
Advantage- It comes with the battery included
- It meets Euro standards for safety
- It has a backlit LED display
- The continuity check makes a loud sound
- It has a lot of excellent customer reviews
Disadvantage- Some people have said the capacitance testing function does not work
- There have been complaints of the leads connecting badly
Summary: The Neoteck Pocket Digital Multimeter seems to be of high quality and it comes at a great price. With its safety features and good design, it might be just the thing you need. You might have found the perfect multimeter.
2.Extech EX310 Multimeter
This multimeter has a conveniently small size and an easy-to-read digital display. It functions as both a multimeter and an NCV detector. It uses manual ranging and has a battery test function. The meter is protected by a rubber holster. The Extech EX310 might be the perfect multimeter for you.
Accuracy- This multimeter measures DC/AC voltage to 600V, and measures DC/AC current to 10 amps. It has a 0.5% basic accuracy. This accuracy level rivals that of higher-end tools. If you need an accurate multimeter on a budget, this one might be what you need.
Voltage Detection- The Extech EX310 multimeter also functions as an NCV detector. When places near live wires, switches, and outlets, it will make an audible beeping sound and flash red LED lights to let you know that there is AC voltage. This feature will give you a safer and more convenient experience.
Other Features- The digits on the LED display of this multimeter measure one inch each. This makes the display easy to read, even if the environment is dark or dimly lit. The low battery indicator will let you know when the batteries are running low – the device uses two AAA batteries. You can use it to perform continuity testing and diode testing. A rubber holster protects this device from damage from being dropped.
Advantage- It has an accuracy level to rival higher-end multimeters
- It features NCV detection
- The digits on the LED display are large and easy to read
- It has an indicator for low battery
- It features a rubber holster for protection
Disadvantage- Though most reviews are positive, there have been several reports of the device dying quickly and ceasing to function
- Various settings have been reported to be unreliable
Summary: This Extech device is a good multimeter for the price and will certainly get the job done when it comes to home electronic projects. It comes with the batteries already installed. If you need to test batteries and work on small home and hobby projects with electricity, you will likely find this multimeter to be satisfactory.
3.Etekcity MSR C600
This multimeter is auto-ranging and uses a clamp to measure the AC current in a conductor without interrupting the circuit. Additionally, it can test AC/DC voltage, resistance, continuity, and diodes. It has a lot of nifty features and conserves energy by going into sleep mode after 15 minutes of inactivity. This might be just the multimeter you need.
Practical and Multipurpose- You can test AC current, AC/DC voltage, resistance, and continuity with this multimeter. It can also be used to test diodes. It comes with testing leads as well as a clamp that can be used to measure current safely, without stripping any wires or coming into contact with electricity.
Autoranging and Controls- This multimeter offers autoranging assistance to help you measure voltage, diodes, continuity, and resistance without having to guess a range. It also features a data hold button and a max value button. It is set up to be easy to use.
Features- In addition to the data hold and max value features, this multimeter enters sleep mode after 15 minutes of not being actively used. This helps to conserve energy. It comes with two AAA batteries that it requires already installed, and also comes with a carrying pouch that makes it easy to use while traveling.
Advantage- It uses a clamp that lets you test current safely and conveniently
- It also comes with a pair of test leads
- It has autoranging
- It comes with the batteries it uses
- It automatically enters sleep mode to conserve energy
Disadvantage- There have been a few reports of it seeming to be cheaply built and not working properly
- Several people have said that it reads as sensing voltage when not touching anything
Summary: This meter has amazing features and offers high quality at an outstanding price. It has many reviews, and they are overwhelmingly positive. If you want a low-priced multimeter that offers quality rivaling more expensive models, this one might be an excellent option for you.
4.Proster FBA PST99 Multimeter
This multimeter has an extensive range of features and measures more than your typical multimeter. It has overload protection on all ranges as well as other security features and comes with a protective rubber sleeve and stand, so it can stand up to being knocked around a bit. Reviews are overwhelmingly positive. This might be the perfect meter for you.
Measurement- This multimeter measures not only AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, and frequency, but also the duty cycle and temperature. The temperature can be displayed in both Fahrenheit and Celsius. It comes with tons of features like data hold, min/max value ranges, and the relative value ranging. It has both autoranging and manual range switching. It automatically powers off and comes with a built-in warning alarm.
Safety Features- This multimeter has an indicator for low battery and has overload protection on all ranges. It also has a data hold function. The protective casing comes with a stand so it can be used while you are using your hands for other things. It also has a slot to keep the test probes in when they are not being used.
Accessories- This Proster multimeter comes with a carry bag, making it conveniently portable. It uses two AAA batteries but comes with them already installed. It also comes with two multimeter probes and one temperature probe. You will be able to start using it right out of the box, at least for some things.
Advantage- It has more functions than your average multimeter
- It has a protective casing
- It has overload protection on all ranges
- It has a warning alarm
- It comes with a carry bag
Disadvantage- There are a couple of reports that the measurement is not very precise
- More than one person claims the stand doesn’t work properly
Summary: This multimeter has an amazing number of ways it can be used. With an abundance of safety features, it is sure to make your electrical work easier. Its extensive multipurpose functions will not disappoint. This may be the multimeter you were always looking for.
5.Thsinde TRMS 6000 Multimeter
This is an autoranging digital multimeter with a wide range of home and professional applications. It can be used to test voltage, current, resistance, continuity, capacitance, and frequency. It is also capable of testing diodes and transistors. It has a rugged construction that can stand up to a fair amount of rough handling. It might be the exact multimeter that you need.
Functions and Features- This digital multimeter has 10 functions. It can accurately measure AC/DC voltage and current, frequency, continuity, resistance, and diodes. Additionally, it can do NCV testing. It has a large, backlit LED screen that is easy to read, and features hold mode, auto power off, overload protection, and short circuit protection. The amazing features combine to give you a device that is safe and easy to use.
Voltage Alerts- This multimeter offers non-contact voltage detection. When it detects a voltage higher than 700V, the instrument sensor will make a buzzing sound and light up. This feature will make working with electricity a lot safer and might be what will make you decide to buy this model.
Acoustics and Accessories- This multimeter features over-range protection for all ranges. It makes a beeping sound with varying acoustics based on how far the meter is from the object it is measuring. The sound is weakened with distance. It comes with a battery, alligator clips, and test leads.
Advantage- The screen is backlit and easy to read
- It features NCV detection with voltage alerts
- It has overload protection and short circuit protection
- It has over-range protection for all ranges
- It has a rugged construction
Disadvantage- The crocodile clips it comes with aren’t usable, so functional ones will need to be purchased separately
- The backlit display only stays illuminated for 10 seconds
Summary: The TRMS 6000 has great features and excellent quality at an amazing price. It has a back stand to leave your hands free, and lots of features that make it easy to use. For the average home multimeter user, this model is perfectly functional and has a versatile range of uses. It might be just the device you need.
6.Tacklife DM01M Multimeter
This multimeter can easily resolve any electrical safety issues that might come up in the home or car. It can measure large ranges of AC/DC voltage and current, as well as resistance and capacitance. It is packed to the brim with useful features and its quality is comparable to that of high-end, expensive multimeters. It could be the perfect multimeter for you.
Display and Range – The DM01M has a large, 2.7-inch backlit LED display that should be very easy to read. It can measure DC voltage up to 1000V and AC voltage up to 750V. It can also measure AC/DC current to 10A, resistance to 60MΩ, and capacitance to 100mF. Additionally, it can perform continuity tests and measure temperature. With wide ranges and versatile use options, this multimeter looks to be a great option.
Sensitive NCV Testing- This multimeter can detect AC voltage at a sensitive level, and uses a combination of LED lights and a beeper to alert you of the signal density. The LED lights shine at three levels, for low, medium, and high signal density, and the beeper beeps at different frequencies. If the signal is strong, a bright red light will flash. A low signal density will cause the light to flash green. This feature is very useful for detecting voltage.
Safety and Accessories- This multimeter has a ceramic fuse and thermistor protection circuit and conforms to the security requirements of 600V CAT IV and 1000V CAT III. It offers you a secure experience. Included with it are test leads, a K-type thermocouple, 4 AA batteries, and a user manual.
Advantage- The large LED display is easy to read
- It has very wide ranges
- It can measure temperature
- It has extremely sensitive NCV detection
- It conforms to safety guidelines
Disadvantage- The user manual is written in tiny print that is very hard to read
- According to some, the leads are not the best quality
Summary: The Tacklife DM01M has a quality build and contains every feature you could possibly want in a multimeter. With a sturdy design and quality features at an incredibly low price, it may be the tool you were looking for. If you choose this model, you are unlikely to be disappointed.
7.FaraDigi FDM18A Multimeter
This multimeter measures AC voltage, DC voltage, resistance, frequency, and capacitance. Additionally, it can measure temperature as well as featuring NCV detection. This means you can use it to detect AC voltage even on a live line. It is designed to be safe to use and might be the best choice for you.
Auto ranging and Accuracy- This multi meter features auto-ranging, which means that you can just switch it to the correct mode and use it. There is no need to set up a range. It uses true RMS 6000 counts to give you accurate readings. It has the best measurement accuracy and can measure DC voltage up to 1000V and AC voltage up to 750V.
NCV Detection- The NCV detection featured in this multi meter means that you can use it to tell if a line is live before testing its voltage. NCV stands for non-contact voltage testing and it will allow you to detect AC voltage on a live line.
Lighting and Energy Efficiency- You can use this multimeter in the dark. It has a backlit LED display and a flashlight, as well as a data hold that makes it easy to measure voltage and amperage in the dark. To save energy, it automatically goes into sleep mode when it has been inactive for 15 minutes.
Advantage- It is very accurate
- It has auto ranging
- It features NCV detection
- The LED display is backlit, so you can use it in the dark
- It saves energy by going into sleep mode automatically
Disadvantage- The test leads it comes with are not the best quality
- It is difficult to get the screen to stay backlit
Summary: This FaraDigi multimeter is simple, functional, and comes with a wide range of helpful features. It also comes with a free 1-year warranty. It can be used to test batteries or diodes, and the large, 4-digit LED display gives you precise values. It might be the perfect multimeter for you.
Things to Consider When Buying a Multimeter
Analog or Digital- An analog multimeter is often called a VOM, which stands for the voltmeter, ohmmeter, milliammeter. A VOM utilizes a needle readout, while a digital multimeter will have an LED display. Generally, digital multimeters are better. They tend to have more features, and if you are on a budget, it is easier to find a good-quality digital multimeter for a cheap price than it is to find an analog multimeter that works well. The one advantage to a VOM is that it’s easier to see trends in a changing value on a needle display. Although there are advantages and disadvantages to both, it would probably be better for you to choose a digital multimeter.
Safety- When you are buying a multimeter, you will want to find one that is designed with safety in mind. A lot of design features go into making multimeters safer, so it pays to be savvy about those. You will want to make sure, for instance, that the probes are designed in such a way that your fingers aren’t in danger of slipping past their insulation. When you are comparing different multimeters and making a decision, be sure to consider safety features. The CAT ratings are helpful, but they are not the end-all of multimeter safety. Be smart when you are looking at how a multimeter is designed.
Accuracy- You will need to decide how important accuracy is to you in a multimeter. It really depends on what you plan to do with it. A meter with low accuracy can still be used to tell if a circuit is working or not, at least in a lot of cases. However, accuracy is required if you need to tell the difference between a circuit that is working poorly and one that is working well. Depending on what you will be using the meter for, accuracy is an important consideration.
Features- Some multimeters have more features than others. You have to think about which features will be useful to you. Some meters only have the basics, and others have capacitance testing, diode testing, frequency counting, and even measuring temperature. You should research the applications of each feature and figure out which ones you are likely to use. Then, all you need to do is find a multimeter that has all the features you want for the best possible price.
Build Quality- When choosing a multimeter, you will want to consider the build quality. How sturdy is the design? Will it break if you accidentally drop it, or does it have a more rugged construction? How long can you reasonably expect it to last? What materials is it made of? Some materials are more durable than others. The issue of quality also intersects with safety. A poorly designed multimeter will usually also be less safe. When you are planning to purchase a multimeter, it pays to look at quality.
The Final Words (Summary)
There are a lot of things to consider when you are choosing a multimeter under $50. You have to think about what you are using it for, and what features you will need. It will be important to try to find the highest quality product that nevertheless comes at a reasonably low price.
Safety is also an important thing to factor in when making a decision. Choosing a good product can be daunting, but hopefully, this article was helpful, and you are now on your way to discovering the best multimeter under $50 dollars.
