How Accurate is a Cheap Multimeter? – Multimeter Accuracy

You don’t have to be an electrician to know and understand the importance of multimeters. A multimeter would help anyone to diagnose simple household electrical problems fast.

Like any other product, multimeters come at different prices, each with varying features. It is only human for anyone to want to select the cheapest possible option when buying something.

Would the same apply to multimeters, though? Several multimeters come at a price most people would term cheap. That begs the question, how accurate is a cheap multimeter? Would a multimeter that costs 50$ be as precise as compared to expensive multimeter? Let’s find out.

Are Cheap Multimeters That Accurate?

Yes, cheap multimeters might be more accurate than you think. Why do we say so? Because thanks to technology today, more affordable instruments are being manufactured at a fraction of the cost, which lowers their prices considerably.

The cheap multimeters in question can thus afford to be accurate and still come at relatively affordable prices. In addition, most cheap multimeters function with an IC chip that makes them somewhat real.

For the basic tests, a cheap multimeter would be reasonably accurate. If you can’t afford the expensive multimeters, then a cheap one would suffice until you get the money to get the higher-end versions.

Most of the time, the higher-end multimeters only beat the cheap multimeters by the counts of the results. Most expensive multimeters show six-digit results. Still, you are better of with a cheap multimeter if you can’t afford the costly instruments.

Moreover, not all expensive multimeters will provide you with the accuracy you seek. That, however, doesn’t mean you should buy a cheap multimeter when you can afford a better one.

Does this Mean they are Better than Expensive Multimeters?

No, by saying that cheap multimeters are worth it to some degree, we don’t mean that they are better than all expensive multimeters. Some top-of-the-grade multimeters would cost you over 100$, and you’d be surprised with the high precision they would give you.

Fluke multimeters are a famous example of expensive multimeters. However, they will deliver on their promise thanks to the many features they have.

How Do Cheap Multimeters Differ from Expensive Multimeters?

Apart from the price, there are glaring differences between cheap and expensive multimeters. For one, they will offer you precise measurements of a wide variety of electrical properties.

Expensive multimeters are also relatively easy to use. They will have large LCD screens with a backlight and can thus work for you even in the dark. Cheap multimeters, on the other hand, will have only the primary display.

Expensive multimeters have more latitude to offer more features that will make them convenient. In addition to that, they are also quite durable as most come with rubber corners and sturdy builds.

How Much Should You Pay for a Multimeter?

Most multimeters range between 50$ and 100$. However, some are far cheaper than 50 dollars, and some cost way higher than 100 dollars. When buying, ensure the features match the price.

The Bottom Line

If you think cheap multimeters aren’t all that, then we hope we have made you change your mind about them. If you can’t afford an expensive multimeter, a cheap one will pretty much do the job.