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Compare the top 7 Fluke multimeters for 2025. Expert reviews of the 17B+, 117, 15B+, 117/323 Kit, 101, 115, and T6 with specs, pros/cons. Find your perfect electrical tester.
Electrical faults cause over 30% of industrial downtime, highlighting the need for reliable diagnostics. Choosing the right multimeter is critical for safety and accuracy in any electrical work, from DIY projects to complex commercial systems.
This review compares seven top-rated Fluke multimeters. We analyze their key features, safety ratings, and ideal applications to help you select the perfect tool for your specific needs and budget.
At a Glance: Top 7 Products Compared
| Product | Key Spec | Best For | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fluke 17B+ | Measures temp to 400°C, frequency to 100kHz | Electrical applications needing temperature | 4.5/5 |
| Fluke 117 | Non-contact voltage, Auto AC/DC, True RMS | Electricians (compact, durable) | 4.7/5 |
| Fluke 15B+ | Large backlit display, basic measurements | DIY or professional troubleshooting | 4.3/5 |
| Fluke 117/323 Kit | Combo: Multimeter & 400A clamp meter | Residential/commercial electricians | 4.8/5 |
| FLUKE 101 | Compact, basic 0.5% DC accuracy | Electricians & HVAC technicians | 4.0/5 |
| Fluke 115 | True-RMS, compact for field techs | Field technicians (electrical/electronic) | 4.6/5 |
| Fluke T6-1000 PRO | FieldSense measures V & A simultaneously | Industrial electricians | 4.9/5 |
1. Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter – Rugged & Feature-Rich
Key Specifications
- Measurement Range: AC/DC Voltage up to 1000V, Current up to 10A
- Advanced Functions: Measures Frequency up to 100kHz and Temperature up to 400°C
- Safety Rating: CAT III 600V
- Included Accessories: TL75 Test Leads and K-Type Thermocouple
How It Makes Life Better
This multimeter tackles complex electrical diagnostics by combining standard electrical measurements with specialized functions. The ability to measure high frequency and high temperature with the included thermocouple makes it a versatile tool for troubleshooting motors, HVAC systems, and industrial controls beyond basic voltage checks.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Versatile measurement suite includes temperature and frequency
- Rugged build for reliable use in electrical applications
- Comes with essential accessories (test leads and thermocouple)
❌ Cons
- Safety rating is CAT III 600V, not the full 1000V measurement range
- No mention of True-RMS or non-contact voltage detection
2. Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter with Non-Contact Voltage
Key Specifications
- Special Feature: Non-Contact AC Voltage Detection
- Accuracy & Modes: True RMS Accuracy, Auto AC/DC Selection
- Utility Mode: Low Impedance (LoZ) Mode
- Data Functions: Measures Min/Max/Average values
How It Makes Life Better
This meter prioritizes electrician safety and efficiency. The non-contact voltage detector allows for quick, safe checks before touching wires. Auto AC/DC selection and True-RMS accuracy simplify use and ensure correct readings on complex circuits, while LoZ mode helps avoid false readings from ghost voltage.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Non-contact voltage detection enhances safety
- True-RMS accuracy for reliable measurements on non-linear loads
- Compact and durable design built for electricians
❌ Cons
- No mention of temperature measurement capability
- Specific voltage/current measurement ranges are not listed in the data
3. Fluke 15B+ Digital Multimeter with Large Backlit Display
Key Specifications
- Measurement Range: AC/DC Voltage up to 1000V, AC/DC Current up to 10A
- Display: Large Backlit Display
- Safety Rating: CAT III 600V Safety Rated
- Included: TL75 Test Leads
How It Makes Life Better
This multimeter offers clear visibility in any lighting condition with its large backlit display, making readings easy in dim panels or basements. It covers all fundamental electrical measurements with a high safety rating, providing a reliable and user-friendly tool for a wide range of troubleshooting tasks.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Large backlit display for excellent readability
- Covers essential measurements (V, A, Ω, capacitance, continuity, diode)
- Versatile for both DIY and professional use
❌ Cons
- No mention of True-RMS, frequency, or temperature measurement
- Safety rating is CAT III 600V, not the full 1000V measurement range
4. Fluke 117/323 Kit: Multimeter & 400A Clamp Meter Combo
Key Specifications
- Kit Contents: Multimeter and Clamp Meter Combo
- High Current: AC Current up to 400 A (clamp)
- Accuracy: True RMS and Low Impedance modes
- Included: Test Leads, TPAK, and Carrying Case
How It Makes Life Better
This comprehensive kit eliminates the need for multiple tools by combining a digital multimeter with a high-current clamp meter. The carrying case keeps everything organized, making it perfect for service calls. You can safely measure high currents in panels without breaking the circuit and perform detailed voltage analysis with True-RMS accuracy.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Complete two-tool kit for versatile troubleshooting
- Clamp meter measures high AC current (400A) safely
- Includes carrying case and accessories for organization
❌ Cons
- Clamp meter data only specifies AC current, not DC current
- Specific multimeter functions (like capacitance) are not detailed
5. Fluke 101 Digital Multimeter – Compact & Basic
Key Specifications
- Design: Compact, lightweight, and rugged handheld
- DC Accuracy: Basic 0.5%
- Safety: CAT III 600 V safety rating
- Included: TL75 test leads, 2 AAA batteries, user manual
How It Makes Life Better
This meter is an easy-to-carry, no-fuss tool for quick, essential checks. Its compact and rugged design fits in a tool pouch without adding bulk, making it ideal for on-the-go technicians. It comes ready to use with batteries and leads, perfect for fast continuity and diode tests with an audible buzzer.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- Extremely compact, lightweight, and rugged for portability
- Comes with batteries and leads, ready to use out of the box
- Maintains a high CAT III 600V safety rating
❌ Cons
- Very basic functionality (only DC accuracy, diode, continuity specified)
- No mention of AC voltage, current, resistance, or capacitance measurement
6. Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter – Compact True-RMS
Key Specifications
- Accuracy: Compact True-RMS meter
- Measurement Range: AC/DC voltage up to 600 V, current up to 10 A
- Functions: Measures frequency and capacitance
- Included: Test leads, holster, battery, backlit display
How It Makes Life Better
Designed for field technicians, this meter combines professional True-RMS accuracy with a compact, fully-equipped package. The included holster, battery, and backlit display mean it’s ready for immediate use in any environment, providing reliable measurements on both electrical and electronic systems without extra purchases.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- True-RMS accuracy for correct readings on non-linear loads
- Comes fully equipped (holster, battery, leads, backlit display)
- Compact design ideal for field technicians on the move
❌ Cons
- Voltage measurement limited to 600V, not 1000V
- No mention of temperature measurement or non-contact voltage detection
7. Fluke T6-1000 PRO with FieldSense Technology
Key Specifications
- Innovative Technology: FieldSense measures AC voltage & current simultaneously
- Measurement Range: AC voltage up to 1000 V, current up to 200 A
- Wire Size: Works on wires up to AWG 4/0
- Features: True-RMS accuracy, Visual Continuity screen lighting
How It Makes Life Better
This tester revolutionizes measurement by allowing you to read voltage and current at the same time without direct metal contact, enhancing safety and speed. The Visual Continuity feature lights the screen for clear indication in bright areas, making it a powerful, efficient tool for heavy-duty industrial work.
Pros & Cons
✅ Pros
- FieldSense technology measures voltage and current simultaneously, non-contact
- High capacity: 1000V and 200A on large wires (AWG 4/0)
- Visual Continuity screen lighting for clear indication
❌ Cons
- Only measures AC voltage and current (no DC, resistance, capacitance specified)
- Designed specifically for AC systems, limiting DC application
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right Fluke Multimeter
Safety Rating (CAT Rating)
The CAT (Category) rating is the most critical specification for your safety. It indicates the meter’s ability to withstand voltage surges in different electrical environments.
Always choose a meter with a CAT rating equal to or higher than the environment you’ll be working in. A CAT III 600V rating is a common and robust standard for most building wiring and distribution panels.
Measurement Functions & Accuracy
Identify the specific measurements you need. Basic models handle voltage, current, and resistance, while advanced units add capacitance, frequency, and temperature.
For accurate readings on modern electronics with non-sinusoidal waveforms (like variable-speed drives), look for True-RMS (Root Mean Square) accuracy. Standard meters may give incorrect readings on these circuits.
Form Factor & Special Features
Consider how you’ll use the meter. Compact models are ideal for tight spaces and field technicians, while full-size meters may offer larger displays.
Specialized features like non-contact voltage detection, low impedance (LoZ) mode to avoid ghost voltage, and data logging (Min/Max/Average) can dramatically improve troubleshooting efficiency and safety.
Included Accessories & Kits
Check what comes in the box. A complete kit with test leads, a holster, a carrying case, and batteries offers better value and immediate readiness.
For heavy-current work, consider if you need a dedicated clamp meter. Some solutions combine a multimeter and clamp meter in one kit, which is more versatile than a single tool.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Ignoring the CAT Rating: Using an under-rated meter on high-energy circuits is a severe safety hazard.
- Overlooking True-RMS: Assuming all meters read accurately on non-linear loads like dimmers or inverters.
- Buying Too Basic: Choosing a minimal model that lacks functions you’ll soon need, forcing a second purchase.
Who Needs What
- DIY Homeowners & Hobbyists: A model with basic voltage, continuity, and resistance functions, a clear display, and a good safety rating (CAT III) is sufficient.
- Professional Electricians & HVAC Techs: Prioritize safety features like non-contact detection, True-RMS accuracy, and durability. A clamp meter function or kit is often essential.
- Industrial Technicians & Engineers: Look for advanced features like high-frequency measurement, temperature, data logging, and specialized technology for non-contact current reading on large conductors.
Frequently Asked Questions
What does CAT III 600V safety rating mean?
The CAT (Category) rating indicates the meter’s protection level against voltage transients in specific locations. CAT III 600V means it’s rated for use on three-phase distribution circuits, such as commercial building wiring, circuit breakers, and busbars, and can withstand transient surges up to 6000 volts. It’s a critical safety standard for most professional electrical work.
Why is True-RMS important in a multimeter?
True-RMS (Root Mean Square) meters accurately measure the effective value of AC waveforms, including distorted or non-sinusoidal waves from modern electronics like dimmers, VFDs, and computers. A standard averaging meter will give incorrect, lower readings on these non-linear loads, potentially leading to misdiagnosis. For professional accuracy, True-RMS is essential.
Can I measure DC current with a clamp meter attachment?
Most basic clamp meters, including common attachments, only measure AC current. Measuring DC current requires a clamp meter with a Hall Effect sensor, which is a specific and often more expensive feature. Always check the product specifications for “DC current” measurement if that is a requirement for your work on automotive or DC power systems.
What is the difference between continuity and resistance testing?
Resistance testing measures the exact ohmic value of a component. Continuity testing checks if a complete path exists for current to flow, typically indicated by an audible buzzer for quick verification of wires, fuses, or connections. It’s a faster, pass/fail check, while resistance gives you a precise numerical measurement.
How often should I calibrate my Fluke multimeter?
Calibration intervals depend on usage, environment, and required precision. For critical safety or compliance work, annual calibration is common. For general professional use, every 1-2 years is a good practice. Always follow any specific industry or company guidelines. Regular calibration ensures your readings remain accurate and trustworthy.
What does “Low Impedance (LoZ)” mode do?
Low Impedance mode helps prevent false readings from “ghost voltage” – induced voltage on de-energized wires running parallel to live ones. By placing a low impedance load on the circuit, it drains this stray voltage, showing the true state (presence or absence of real power). It’s a vital feature for electricians troubleshooting in crowded junction boxes.
Are more expensive Fluke meters always better?
Not necessarily. “Better” depends on your specific needs. A top-tier industrial meter with advanced features is overkill for basic home DIY. The best meter is the one with the right safety rating, necessary functions, and durability for your specific tasks. Investing in a meter matched to your work is more important than buying the most expensive one.