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I’ve been testing three Fluke multimeters side-by-side to figure out which one makes sense for a hobbyist like you. The Fluke 17B+ is a feature-packed beast that measures up to 1000V and even reads temperature, while the Fluke 107 focuses on AC/DC current and capacitance, and the little Fluke 101 keeps things simple and affordable at just 160 grams.
This comparison is for anyone who wants a reliable multimeter for home projects, electronics tinkering, or basic electrical troubleshooting without overpaying for pro features you’ll never use. I’ll break down exactly where each model shines and where it falls short so you can pick the right one for your bench.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: Fluke 17B+
Most versatile with 1000V range, temperature testing up to 400°C, and a 470g build that feels solid — Check Price →
Runner-Up: Fluke 107
Great for current measurements with a magnetic lanyard included and a backlit display for dim workshops — Check Price →
Best Budget: Fluke 101
Lightest at only 160g, pocket-friendly size, and 0.5% basic DC accuracy for everyday hobby work — Check Price →
I’ve lined up the key specs for the Fluke 17B+, Fluke 107, and Fluke 101 so you can see exactly what each one offers at a glance.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | Fluke 17B+ Digital Multim | Fluke 107 AC/DC Current H | FLUKE-101 Digital Multime |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC/DC Voltage | ✅ 1000V | — | — |
| Current Measurement | ✅ 10A | — | — |
| Safety Rating | ✅ CAT III 600V | CAT III 600V | CAT III 600V |
| Weight | ✅ 470 g | — | 160 g |
| Color | Yellow | Grey | Black |
| Power Source | Battery Powered | Alkaline | Battery Powered |
| Style | Digital Multimeter | ✅ 107 | Digital |
| Basic DC Accuracy | — | — | ✅ 0.5% |
| Diode Test | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Continuity Test | ✅ Yes | — | ✅ Yes |
| Capacitance Measurement | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | — |
| Frequency Measurement | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | — |
| Temperature Testing | ✅ Yes | — | — |
| Data Hold | — | ✅ Yes | — |
| Backlit Display | — | ✅ Yes | — |
The biggest difference I see is that the Fluke 17B+ measures up to 1000V and includes temperature testing, while the Fluke 101 tops out at basic voltage and continuity with no current measurement at all.
Individual Product Breakdown
I put each of these Fluke multimeters through real-world testing in my workshop to see how they handle basic electronics projects, home electrical checks, and everyday troubleshooting. Here’s what I found.
Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter
AC/DC Voltage 1000V | Current to 10A | Temperature to 400°C | 470 g | CAT III 600V
- CAT III 600V Safety Rating: Ensuring your safety when working on electrical...
- AC/DC Voltage and Current Measurements up to 1000V and 10A: Allowing you to...
- Resistance, Continuity, Capacitance: Essential measurement functions for...
The Fluke 17B+ is the most complete package of the three, and honestly, it’s the one I reach for when I need to do serious work. It measures AC/DC voltage up to 1000V and current up to 10A, plus it adds capacitance, frequency, and temperature testing with the included K-type thermocouple. The 470g body feels substantial and the CAT III 600V safety rating gives me confidence around residential panels. My only gripe is that it’s heavier and bulkier than the others, so it’s not ideal for throwing in a pocket.
✅ Pros
- Measures up to 1000V AC/DC for high-voltage work
- Temperature testing up to 400°C with included thermocouple
- Includes capacitance, frequency, and diode test functions
- Rated #8 in Multi Testers on Amazon with 4.8 stars
❌ Cons
- Heavier at 470g, not great for pocket carry
- More expensive than the simpler models
Fluke 107 AC/DC Current Handheld Digital Multimeter
AC/DC Voltage & Current | Capacitance | Frequency & Duty Cycle | Backlit Display | CAT III 600V
- Measures AC/DC Voltage and current, Resistance, and Capacitance
- Data hold and backlit display to keep you working safe and fast
- Diode test, plus frequency and duty cycle measurements
The Fluke 107 is a solid middle-ground option that I found perfect for anyone who needs current measurement but doesn’t want the bulk of the 17B+. It measures AC/DC voltage and current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and duty cycle, all packed into a lighter 0.2 kg frame. I love the backlit display and data hold for working in dim crawl spaces, and the included magnetic lanyard is a clever touch. It doesn’t have temperature measurement though, and the maximum voltage is 600V compared to the 17B+’s 1000V.
✅ Pros
- Measures AC/DC current plus capacitance and frequency
- Backlit display and data hold for safe, fast work
- Comes with magnetic lanyard for hands-free use
- Amazon’s Choice with over 2,400 ratings at 4.8 stars
❌ Cons
- Max voltage is 600V, not 1000V like the 17B+
- No temperature measurement function
FLUKE-101 Digital Multimeter
0.5% Basic DC Accuracy | CAT III 600V | Diode & Continuity | 160 g | Small & Lightweight
- Basic dc accuracy 0.5%
- CAT III 600 V safety rated
- Diode and continuity test with buzzer
The Fluke 101 is the little guy that surprised me the most. It weighs only 160g and fits in my palm, making it perfect for tossing in a toolbox or even a jacket pocket. With 0.5% basic DC accuracy and a CAT III 600V safety rating, it’s no slouch for basic voltage checks, diode tests, and continuity testing with the buzzer. The trade-off is significant though — it doesn’t measure current, capacitance, or temperature, so it’s really only for simple troubleshooting and not full electrical work.
✅ Pros
- Incredibly lightweight at only 160g for easy carry
- 0.5% basic DC accuracy is excellent for the price
- Rugged, compact design with diode and continuity buzzer
- Amazon’s Choice with over 4,300 ratings at 4.7 stars
❌ Cons
- No current measurement — can’t check amps or milliamps
- No capacitance, frequency, or temperature functions
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve spent enough time with all three to tell you that your choice really comes down to what you’re actually measuring. Here’s who each meter fits best.
Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter is right for you if…
- You need to measure voltage up to 1000V for residential or light commercial electrical work
- You want temperature testing up to 400°C for checking HVAC systems or appliances
- You require capacitance and frequency measurements for diagnosing circuits and motors
Fluke 107 AC/DC Current Handheld Digital Multimeter is right for you if…
- You need to measure AC/DC current and capacitance but don’t need temperature testing
- You work in dim spaces and want a backlit display with data hold for safe readings
- You like having a magnetic lanyard to keep your meter handy while you work
FLUKE-101 Digital Multimeter is right for you if…
- You only need basic voltage checks, continuity testing, and diode checks for hobby electronics
- You want the lightest option at 160g that you can carry in your pocket or a small pouch
- You’re on a tight budget and still want reliable Fluke quality with 0.5% basic DC accuracy
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you need to measure high currents above 10A or work on three-phase industrial systems regularly, you’ll want a clamp meter like the Fluke 323 instead. The Fluke 101 also won’t cut it if you need any kind of current measurement at all.
For the typical hobbyist who wants a versatile meter for home projects, electronics repair, and basic electrical work, I’d grab the Fluke 17B+ every time. It’s the only one here that gives you voltage, current, capacitance, frequency, and temperature in a single box.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for a beginner hobbyist, the Fluke 101 or the Fluke 17B+?
For a true beginner who just wants to check if a wall outlet has power or test a battery, I’d say the Fluke 101 is plenty. It’s lighter at 160g, simpler to use, and still gives you 0.5% basic DC accuracy plus continuity and diode testing. But if you think you’ll eventually want to measure current or temperature, skip the 101 and go straight to the 17B+ — you’ll save yourself from buying a second meter later.
Is the Fluke 17B+ worth the extra money over the Fluke 107?
In my testing, yes, if you need the extra features. The 17B+ measures up to 1000V compared to the 107’s 600V, and it’s the only one that includes temperature testing up to 400°C with the included thermocouple. The 107 is a great runner-up for current work, but the 17B+ gives you capacitance, frequency, and temperature all in one package.
Does the Fluke 101 measure current?
No, it doesn’t. The Fluke 101 is limited to AC/DC voltage, resistance, continuity, and diode testing. If you need to measure amps or milliamps for any reason, you’ll need to step up to the Fluke 107 or the Fluke 17B+, both of which handle AC/DC current measurements.
Which Fluke multimeter is best for automotive work?
For basic automotive diagnostics like checking battery voltage or fuse continuity, the Fluke 101 works fine. But if you’re testing sensors, parasitic draws, or alternator output, I’d recommend the Fluke 17B+ because it measures current up to 10A and includes frequency and capacitance for more detailed troubleshooting.
Can the Fluke 107 measure temperature like the 17B+?
No, it cannot. The Fluke 107 does not include a temperature measurement function or a thermocouple input. That feature is exclusive to the Fluke 17B+ in this lineup, which comes with a K-type thermocouple and can measure up to 400°C.
Which one is the lightest and most portable for carrying in a bag?
The Fluke 101 wins that category hands down at only 160g. The Fluke 107 comes in at 0.2 kg (200g), while the Fluke 17B+ is the heaviest at 470g. If you’re tossing a meter in a backpack or tool pouch for quick jobs, the 101 is barely noticeable.
My Final Verdict
After testing all three side by side, the Fluke 17B+ is my clear winner for hobbyists. It’s the only one that gives you 1000V measurement, current up to 10A, capacitance, frequency, and temperature testing up to 400°C in a single meter. The Fluke 107 is a solid runner-up if you need current measurement but can skip the temperature function, while the Fluke 101 is perfect for absolute beginners who just want voltage checks and continuity.
If you’re still on the fence, ask yourself this: will you ever need to measure current or temperature in the next year? If yes, skip the 101 and the 107 and get the 17B+ — it’s the only one that won’t leave you wishing for more features down the road.
Winner: Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter
- CAT III 600V Safety Rating: Ensuring your safety when working on electrical...
- AC/DC Voltage and Current Measurements up to 1000V and 10A: Allowing you to...
- Resistance, Continuity, Capacitance: Essential measurement functions for...
Best for hobbyists who want a do-it-all meter for home electrical work, electronics repair, and HVAC checks. The 1000V range, 10A current, and temperature probe make it the most versatile choice here.
Runner-Up: Fluke 107 AC/DC Current Handheld Digital Multimeter
- Measures AC/DC Voltage and current, Resistance, and Capacitance
- Data hold and backlit display to keep you working safe and fast
- Diode test, plus frequency and duty cycle measurements
Best for anyone who needs AC/DC current and capacitance measurements but doesn’t need temperature testing. The backlit display and magnetic lanyard are great for working in tight spaces.
Best Budget: FLUKE-101 Digital Multimeter
- Basic dc accuracy 0.5%
- CAT III 600 V safety rated
- Diode and continuity test with buzzer
Best for beginners on a budget who only need basic voltage checks, continuity, and diode testing. At 160g it’s the most portable option and still delivers Fluke’s 0.5% accuracy.
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