Best Multimeter for Electronics Repair

Also known as a Volt-Ohm meter, the multimeter is a device used by electricians (but not exclusively) to measure voltage, resistance, and current.

Now, the main purpose of this handheld device is to identify and troubleshoot electrical problems on all sorts of equipment, among which we can also count smartphones. We can actually say that the multimeter is mandatory in a phone repair service, but it’s always a good idea to have one around when you’re working on DIY projects as well.

But back to the phone repair service business – how can the multimeter help?

Best Multimeter for Electronics Technician

First, you should know there are two types of multimeters on the market: digital and analog, and both will do the same thing. The difference is that the digital device will display the readings in digital format, which makes it easier to use by non-specialists.

In phone repair, the multimeter can be used in the following situations:

• To check the output voltage of battery & charger
• Check the resistance of various parts
• Check if a track is broken (using the diode setting)
• Check the speaker or ringer
• Check the microphone

What to Consider Before Buying a Multimeter

The best way to decide on a multimeter is to know its purpose, aka what you’ll want to use it for. As long as you get the necessary features, your work will be safe and easier with such a device.

So, here are some of the characteristics to consider when you’re looking for the best multimeter for electronics technician:   

The type

As I mentioned earlier, there are two types: analog and digital. Now, digital ones are a bit more expensive, but they are easier to use than analog ones, especially if you’re not an electrician.

On the other hand, an analog device will give better readouts when it comes to changing trends.

Brand

Before deciding on the cheapest tool you can find, have a look at some of the brands that make them. Read some reviews and find the brand that’s closer to your needs. For instance, high-end devices are also more durable and better protected, but given you’ll use it a shop (and not at a construction site), yours should be safe from people accidentally crashing it.

However, other features may be important when you’re selecting the brand such as design, accuracy, or safety. So take your time.

Accuracy

High accuracy may not be as important if you’re working a DIY project, but when you’re working on phones, you may need to know exactly what’s going on.

The difference is usually established by the brand and price. That’s why I advise you to buy from known brands, that don’t tend to use cheap materials that can interfere with the accuracy.

Safety Features

If you’re using the multimeter in a professional setting, it’s best to make sure it won’t blow up in your face. That’s why you should consider one that has some safety features such as isolation slots to prevent arc over, internal blast shields, or banana plugs on the probes.

Best Budget Multimeter

Now that you know how a multimeter can help you and how to choose the one you need, it’s time to take a look over some of the best products that can be purchased on a budget.

Fluke 87-V

It is an industrial multimeter that delivers accurate measurements on ASD and comes with advanced troubleshooting capabilities. Fluke 87-V is designed to cope with complex signals, and doesn’t leave you guessing even when you’re in high-altitude locations.

It even has a built-in thermometer that accurately reads the temperature so you won’t have to use a separate device. Furthermore, the large display has a two-level backlight that can be adjusted according to the light conditions around. And, there is an optional magnetic hanger so you can place the device somewhere in sight when you don’t need to hold it.

Pros:

• Easy-to-use design
• Accurate (0.05%DC accurate)
• Industrial features

Cons:

• A bit expensive
• Poor customer service

Innova 3320

Some consider it the best multimeter for electronics repair that can be bought on a budget, and they may be right. The Innova 3320 comes with accurate readings, good build quality, and a big display so you can read it from a distance.

It is quite compact, but this may fit right into your plans if you don’t have too much room in your store.

Pros:

• Protective rubber on corners
• Big display
• Battery save feature
• Auto-ranging scales

Cons:

• Not for highly professional jobs
• Continuity tester has a short delay

Extech EX330

A bit more expensive than the Innova, but still a good fit for any budget, the Extech EX330 is the best multimeter for electronics repair when you’re looking for features such as durability, portability, and ease of use.

This tiny device is capable to sense temperatures, has auto-ranging, continuity tester, and a tilt stand so it’s easy to see. You can use it to test frequency, duty cycle, diode, and more.

Pros:

• An impressive array of features
• Easy to use
• Compact and lightweight
• Temperature measurements

Cons:

• Milliamp measurements are incorrect
• Auto-range is slow on resistance

Fluke 88V

The best multimeter for electronics technician is the Fluke 88V. While it is expensive, it comes with impressive features such as carrying diode tests on vehicles.

The device is built to withstand spikes up to 8,000 volts and has a maximum resistance of 50 M! It’s also accurate at +/1 1.00 percent and measures 60.00 nS conductance.

Pros:

• Extremely accurate
• Professional features
• Lifetime Warranty

Cons:

• Really expensive

Mastech MS8268

The last on our list is also considered the best budget multimeter by many because it comes with a tilt stand, rugged case for extra protection and grip, lit LCD display, auto ranging, diode checker, Blue LED light, and an auto power off feature.

Mastech MS8268 is also the best multimeter for electronics repair because it doesn’t occupy much space and has all the necessary capabilities needed for a phone service shop.

Pros:

• Great to use on phones
• Auto power off
• 1-year warranty
• Compact design

Cons:

• It is slow
• The hold is manual
• It’s not designed for high-professional jobs

In Conclusion

A multimeter is necessary regardless of your education as an electrician and your preferences, but if you’re looking for the best multimeter for electronics repair, you must make sure you understand how these devices work.

This way, you won’t end up overpaying for a device with features you’ll never use, but you’ll also avoid cheap products that may blow up in your face.