Before getting into multimeter reviews and comparisons of the best multimeters, let’s take a step back and put a novice spin on multimeters in general. A multimeter, also known as a multitester, and volt-ohm meter (VOM) is used to measure voltage, current, and resistance in an electrical circuit. There are two basic types: analog and digital. An analog multimeter uses a moving pointer to indicate readings. Digital multimeters use a digital screen to display readings. Some units may offer a graph of the readings as well. At one time, analog multimeters are more common in professional and industrial settings and digital multimeters were more common for household use. Today, digital multimeters rule the industry.
The most common use for a multimeter is to troubleshoot electrical problems in industrial or household electronic equipment, motor controls, appliances, power supplies, and wiring systems. Finding the exact place where the current is broken can often be the difference between a quick, easy fix and having to replace an expensive piece of equipment. Multimeters are available in a wide variety of prices. Today, digital units are far more common than analog units and; therefore, are much less expensive in many cases. For instance, a simple digital unit can be as inexpensive as $10. On the other hand, an extremely sensitive analog unit for complex industrial or laboratory use can cost as much as $5,000.
**Below, you'll find our more detailed reviews and comparisons, but you can also click the links above to see current prices or read customer reviews on Amazon.