When it comes to your car, home or work, you want to be sure that everything is in good working order. A multimeter can help with this by testing all sorts of things from the electrical current running through a wire and checking if an outlet has power up to determine the quality of oil in your engine. In this post we’re going to review 10 different models of multimeters on Amazon under $50 each – and hopefully one will suit your needs!
One thing we should point out before diving into our reviews is that not every model offers every function which means you may need a higher-priced product for certain jobs. For example, some meters only offer continuity testing while others include capacitance measurements as well as frequency checks. But don’t worry
At a Glance:
Best Multimeter
AstroAI WH5000A
- Backlit LCD
- Hanging magnet and kickstand
- True RMS 6000 counts
- Multi-functional socket
- Hold data feature
- Explosion free ceramic fuse tubes
Best Multimeter Under 50
KAIWEETS HT113B
- Non-contact voltage detection
- Pen slot and kickstand
- LED flashlight
- Data hold function
- TRMS and 4000 counts auto-ranging
- Battery test function
Best Budget Multimeter
Etekcity MSR-R500
- Dial to select the range manually
- Overload protection for all ranges
- Backlit LCD, Data hold, Stand support system
- Continuity buzzer
- CE and RoHS certified
- Low battery indication
Working with electricity is fun but only if safety is guaranteed. Safety comes with accuracy in the case of multimeters, the more accurate and precise is the multimeter the more it is secure. The one parameter is added if you are a smart buyer and that is the budget limit. A smart buyer always looks for budget-friendly options within a reasonable limit. Hey, you read it right, you are a smart buyer as you are already looking for the best multimeter under $50.
Well, looking for an accurate, precise, secure, and best for the price multimeter isn’t a piece of cake. It requires you to be smart and attentive at the same time. I don’t doubt your smartness but to save your time, I have made it easy for you.
After tiresome research that was exclusively based on tests, We have made a list of 10 best multimeters under $50 in 2021. Each of them is best in its own specification, you can buy the one that meets your requirements.
- Our Recommendations for Best Multimeter Under $50
- AstroAI WH5000A
- KAIWEETS HT113B
- AstroAI 132A
- LOMVUM T28C 13
- Crenova 8542039425
- Klein 69149
- Etekcity MSR-R500
- Etekcity MSR-C600
- INNOVA 3320
- AstroAI ASIMT33D
- Summary or Best Multimeter Under $50
- Buyer’s Guide for Best Multimeter Under $50
- Frequently Asked Questions
Our Recommendations for Best Multimeter Under $50
| Award | Design | Electronics | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Multimeter | Best Pick | Check Price | |
| Best Multimeter Under 50 | Staff Pick | Check Price | |
| Best Cheap Multimeter |  | Check Price | |
| Best Inexpensive Multimeter |  | Check Price | |
| Best Digital Multimeter Under 50 |  | Check Price | |
| Best Multimeter |  | Check Price | |
| Best Budget Multimeter | Budget Pick | Check Price | |
| Good Multimeter |  | Check Price | |
| Cheap Multimeter |  | Check Price | |
| Best Low-Cost Multimeter |  | Check Price |
AstroAI WH5000A
Best Multimeter
The qualities of this best multimeter under $50 make it best for both; professional and home use. It is designed to perform extensive tests including continuity, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and many more.
True RMS to measure AC/DC current and voltage and its Auto-ranging capability makes it capable for professional use. The device is not just professional and efficient but it is very easy to use which makes it appropriate for home users.
This multimeter has a lot of safety and protection features that protect the multimeter and consequently save you from any unwanted happening. It has explosion-free ceramic fuse tubes that effectively protect this multimeter. Capacitors and transistors can be measured by using a multi-functional socket.
It is a highly user-friendly multimeter. The backlit LCD of this multimeter enables users to use it in places where there is not enough light. The hold data feature freezes the data to show it for a long.
To record the data is also very convenient as it has a hanging magnet and kickstand. And yes, you can measure the temperature as well by using this multimeter. All these features make it the best electrical companion either for DIY kind of work or for commercial and professional work.
Pros
- Backlit LCD
- Hanging magnet and kickstand
- True RMS 6000 counts
- Multi-functional socket
- Hold data feature
- Explosion free ceramic fuse tubes
Cons
- No noticeable weaknesses
KAIWEETS HT113B
Best Multimeter Under 50
This multimeter supports a battery test function that enables it to show you the real-time accurate data voltage of the battery. It gives very accurate and precise measurements for a wide variety of parameters.
This best multimeter under $50 supports Non-contact voltage detection, TRMS, 4000 counts auto-ranging, and many more. The safety features are very important for every product but especially for electric devices.
This multimeter has an anti-high voltage circuit design that ensures safety while working while a silicon case gives it protection from the possible damage due to falling.
Working with electricity and taking measurements and readings makes the user’s hand busy. A multimeter is supposed to have a good support system to work that can enable you to work freely.
This multimeter has a pen slot on the back and kickstand that make it easy for users to take the readings without holding it all the time. You can work in dim light too as this multimeter has an LED flashlight on its back to make the view clear for you when the light is dim.
The data hold function shows data for a long time when you need any reading to display for more time. The screen reading can be read easily even in insufficient light.
Pros
- Non-contact voltage detection
- Pen slot and kickstand
- LED flashlight
- Data hold function
- TRMS and 4000 counts auto-ranging
- Battery test function
Cons
- No significant drawbacks
AstroAI 132A
Best Cheap Multimeter
Providing you safety and protection with high efficiency at measurements is the primary concern of this best multimeter under $50. It has an anti-burn protection feature that gives great protection against explosions.
The multi-functionality and versatility of this multimeter make it usable for professionals as well as home use. One can measure a number of parameters like frequency, resistance, capacitance, continuity, and many more. Above all, you can measure the temperature as well.
It supports both manual and auto-ranging and it also offers true RMS 4000 counts. Working in an area that does not have sufficient light? No problem, the backlit LCD enables the user to operate this multimeter even at comparatively darker places.
You don’t need to run to catch the data and to record the measurements. The hold data feature of this multimeter holds the display screen for you for as long as you want it. Running out of battery quite suddenly is so frustrating, but this frustration can be prevented as this multimeter gives an indication when it requires batteries to be changed.
It will turn off automatically after 15minutes of inactivity with the support of the auto-shutoff feature, so even if you forget to turn it off, not a big deal! Taking readings is convenient due to its support stand. It is a tough device for hard and tough projects, rubber sleeves make it further safe and protected. After all, working with electric devices isn’t a game!
Pros
- Auto shutoff feature
- True RMS 4000 counts
- Backlit LCD
- Low battery indication
- Anti-burn protection
- Data hold feature
Cons
- Poor customer service
LOMVUM T28C 13
Best Inexpensive Multimeter
The LCD screen of this best multimeter under $50 is 3inches large to enhance the visibility of readings. Not only is it large but the backlit LCD enables the user to work areas with insufficient light.
This TRMS 6000 count digital meter is versatile and supports a number of features and gives accurate readings. It can measure AC/DC current, capacitance, voltage, resistance, temperature, and many other features.
The polarity protection and explosion-proof ceramic fuse tubes make it secure to use. It also gives overload protection for all ranges. The data hold feature is enabled as well to allow you to record the readings conveniently.
Hand-free use is possible as it has a built-in kickstand. The auto-shutoff feature enables it to turn off automatically when it is not in use. The product is durable and protected by corner rubber guards to prevent falling damages. It supports non-contact voltage detection- a big deal, isn’t it?
Low battery indication prevents you from running out of battery at an unusual time during working hours. This high-speed multimeter comes with a 2-year warranty.
Pros
- TRMS 6000counts
- Backlit large LCD
- Corner rubber guards
- High speed and low battery indicator
- Data hold and Auto shutoff
- 2-year warranty
- Non-contact voltage detection
Cons
- Lack of inductance measurement feature
Crenova 8542039425
Best Digital Multimeter Under 50
This best multimeter under $50 is full of user-friendly features. The built-in double fuse ensures protection. Accurate measurements are guaranteed for a number of features like the voltage, AC/DC current, resistance, continuity, and a lot more.
This auto-ranging tester has a backlit LCD that enables it to give a clear display in dim light.
The auto power-off feature helps it to turn off itself when not in use. Data hold and low battery indication features are present as well to give you more ease to work.
This is the best choice to use it at home, school, laboratory, and any kind of DIY work. A carrying bag is included in the package.
Pros
- Auto-ranging tester
- Auto power-off feature
- Low battery indication
- Backlit LCD, Data hold feature
- Built-in double fuse
Cons
- Non-contact voltage detection is not present
Klein 69149
Best Multimeter
It is the buddy kind of multimeter that extraordinarily helps the user to detect the problem. This can detect open ground, open hot, open neutral, and hot/ground reversed. Specifically best about detecting problems.
The bright green LED of this multimeter turns into red and gives alarming tones when the voltage is detected. This best multimeter under $50 can measure AC/DC voltage, DC current, and resistance.
The auto-shutoff feature turns it off automatically when the device is not in use. It helps to extend the battery life as well as the multimeter lifespan.
Pros
- Best to detect the common wiring faults
- Auto shutoff
- Double insulation
- Best for DIY
- Durable – long lifespan
Cons
- Not recommended for commercial use- best for home use only
Etekcity MSR-R500
Best Budget Multimeter
This best multimeter under $50 owns CE and RoHS certification that makes this multimeter to deserve your trust. This can measure a wide range of features that include AC/DC voltage, DC current, continuity, resistance, Diode, and many others. Users can manually select the range by the dial present on the device.
Drop protection is improved by rubber sleeves around this multimeter to protect it from possible damage. Hand-free use is possible due to the built-in stand support system. The data hold feature allows you to hold the data for as long as required to take the readings conveniently.
Moreover, you can take readings even if the light is not sufficient enough with the help of its backlit LCD. It makes sure that you won’t run out of battery on unplanned and unwanted time during work hours, as it gives you low battery indication.
Continuity buzzer in it updates if electrical components are still working normally or not. Overload protection is enabled for all ranges.
Pros
- Dial to select the range manually
- Overload protection for all ranges
- Backlit LCD, Data hold, Stand support system
- Continuity buzzer
- CE and RoHS certified
- Low battery indication
Cons
- Does not measure AC current
Etekcity MSR-C600
Good Multimeter
It is extremely easy to use by just pulling the trigger to function the multimeter clamp. It is empowered to measure AC/DC voltage, AC current and also to perform diode and continuity tests.
The clamp can measure the AC current without interrupting the circuit – up to 26mm. Get accurate and precise readings always with its auto-ranging capacity.
The data can be frozen to record the measurements easily by using a hold button. The shut-off feature helps it to turn off after 15mins of inactivity, it increases the battery life.
The carrying pouch is included in the package that makes it easy to carry and store.
Pros
- Diode and continuity test
- Auto power off
- Hold data feature
- A carrying pouch is included
- Auto-ranging capacity
Cons
- Does not support DC current measurement
INNOVA 3320
Cheap Multimeter
Using this best multimeter under $50, you do not need to dial in the correct range as it is enabled to perform auto-ranging.
It is enabled to test continuity and is the best choice for troubleshooting as it can detect a variety of problems within no time. More importantly, it can measure both AC/DC current and voltage.
It supports hands-free service with the help of its in-built stand support system. To prevent it from damage caused by falling, it has rubber corner guards.
This best multimeter under $50 is UL certified which makes it a risk-free purchase. If you are a DIY kind of person, this is the best option for you.
Pros
- Auto-ranging
- Can measure AC/DC current and voltage
- Built-in stand support system
- UL certified
- Best for troubleshooting
Cons
- Not recommended for professional use
AstroAI ASIMT33D
Best Low-Cost Multimeter
This gives accurate measurements of AC/DC voltage, DC current, resistance, diodes, continuity, and many more. it also gives overload protection for all ranges. It can detect a number of problems that make it the best DIY companion.
Hands-free use is possible as this best multimeter under $50 has a built-in kickstand. You can conveniently use it in dim light with the support of its backlit LCD. By using its data hold feature you can freeze the data on the screen to record it conveniently.
Moreover, it gives you a low battery indication to prevent you from running out of battery. Dual fuse protection makes it secure to use. All these features make it best for professional as well as home use.
Pros
- Built-in kickstand
- Backlit LCD
- Hold data feature
- Low battery indication
- Multi-functional
Cons
- Cannot measure AC current
Summary or Best Multimeter Under $50
| Award | Design | Electronics | Retailer |
|---|---|---|---|
| Best Multimeter | Best Pick | Check Price | |
| Best Multimeter Under 50 | Staff Pick | Check Price | |
| Best Cheap Multimeter | | Check Price | |
| Best Inexpensive Multimeter | | Check Price | |
| Best Digital Multimeter Under 50 | | Check Price | |
| Best Multimeter | | Check Price | |
| Best Budget Multimeter | Budget Pick | Check Price | |
| Good Multimeter | | Check Price | |
| Cheap Multimeter | | Check Price | |
| Best Low-Cost Multimeter | | Check Price |
Buyer’s Guide for Best Multimeter Under $50
As the multimeter is a technical device, the parameters to make a good purchase are technical as well. Buying the best multimeter under $50 is tricky and here I will let you know all the secret tricks that you need to know to make the best purchase.
Safety features:
It is all about electricity and we all know what current can do. Everything, let me repeat everything, every specification is secondary but safety is primary. Nothing matters if the multimeter does not guarantee safety and security.
You need to pay special attention to its construction material, overload protection features, and all other possible safety features. The features I mentioned are must check and are primary requirements. But these are not enough. There must be more features in the multimeter you are considering buying.
The best multimeters under $50 I have mentioned in my list are best for their safety features, and this was the first parameter in my checklist while I was testing and making the list.
Multi-functionality:
There is a wide range of measurements and tests that one can need to check when it comes to working with electricity. You cannot buy another multimeter for every other measurement. The best multimeter under $50 must-have multifunctionality, and versatility that allows it to record and analyze a wide range of measurements.
Frequency, continuity, diode, resistance, and many other measurements and tests are there that you can require to analyze from time to time. The best multimeter under $50 should support you for all these measurements and tests.
Data hold feature:
This feature cannot sound so extraordinary but practically it is hell important. It makes it easier to record the data by holding it for long so you do not need to rush to catch the readings.
Backlit LCD:
While it is a device that helps to troubleshoot electricity issues, there is a high chance that you can need to work in dim or insufficient light. Backlit LCD helps you to continue your work without any interruption as it enhances the vision. The best multimeter under $50 should have this feature to assist you to work in comparatively darker places.
By comparatively darker I mean the areas with insufficient or dim light and not completely dark. Electric work in complete darkness is not possible at first hand and secondly, it is highly prohibited.
Auto shutoff:
Forgetfulness is a common problem these days. We forget to turn the devices off very often but it adversely affects the battery life as well as the lifespan of the device. This feature enables the device to shut off automatically after some specific duration of inactivity.
That duration is 15minutes in most multimeters. Buy the best multimeter under $50 that offers this feature.
Best troubleshooting system:
There are some little wonders like multimeters that are great to detect problems in wiring and other electricity-related issues. The more efficient is the multimeter in detecting problems, the more you will be in peace.
Talking from personal experience, this makes a great difference and a big deal. Buy the best multimeter under $50 that offers a wide range and efficient system of troubleshooting.
Hands-free use:
While working, you need both hands free to work and hold the objects, tools, and to operate the system. If your one hand is continuously busy holding a multimeter you will be forced to manage all work with one hand and it is not only troubling and tough but also insecure and unsafe.
A support system of any kind that can make the multimeter stand itself is a necessary feature. A kickstand support system is best but you can look for any system that suits you. In short, the best multimeter under $50 that you are considering buying should offer hand-free use.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a multimeter cost?
This depends on the requirements. The multimeters that are specified to use on an industrial scale are comparatively pricey than others. The range of prices is around $100 to $150. The multimeters for DIY or for professional electricians on a smaller scale can be bought for under $50.
What should you not do with a multimeter?
This is a very wise question and I wish every buyer should know about the precautions that are in fact lifesaving. Here are some most important things about a multimeter that you should care about to ensure your safety. If the protective insulation on the leads is damaged, never even consider using the test leads.
When there is an electric shock, the movement of current from one hand to the other can be extremely hazardous. carefully operate when it comes to measuring AC/DC current and voltage because there are different multimeters that support one current system and by operating carelessly you can get into great trouble.
Along with all these things, read the manual of your multimeter carefully and never show carelessness while operating a multimeter or working with electricity.
Can a multimeter kill you?
This innocent device is not a murderer until you force it to turn into a dangerous device by your carelessness. A multimeter is a device that is extensively used to measure the resistance and voltage in an electric object.
This is the basic function, the modifications in this primary function make a multimeter multi-functional so it can perform a number of tests and measurements.
To perform all these functions, it emits a small amount of voltage itself. If you are not well aware of how to use it or show any carelessness even being an expert, it can be lethal.
The above-mentioned digital multimeters can measure a vast range of tests and have auto-range power along with RMS for estimating both AC & voltage. After reading this article you can find absolutely the best multimeters according to your budget. These multimeters have an LCD backlit screen, data hold, auto shut-off, and record calculation easier than before.
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