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If you’re into electronics repair, you’ve probably wondered which FNIRSI tester to grab. I’ve been testing the LCR-P1 transistor tester, the LC1020E 100kHz LCR meter, and the LCR-ST2 tweezer meter to see how they handle capacitors, resistors, and transistors. The LCR-P1 is a #1 Best Seller with over 600 bought last month, while the LC1020E boasts a 4.6-star rating from 184 reviews.
This comparison is for anyone who needs a reliable component tester for bench work or field repairs. The big trade-off is between a simple transistor tester that does the basics well and a more advanced LCR meter with sorting and calibration features. Stick with me — I’ll break down which one fits your workflow best.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: FNIRSI LC1020E
Most advanced with 100kHz frequency, 19,999-count display, and sorting mode — Check Price →
Runner-Up: FNIRSI LCR-ST2
Great for SMD work with tweezer tips and full-band 100kHz scan — Check Price →
Best Budget: FNIRSI LCR-P1
Affordable transistor tester with auto-discharge and NEC infrared analysis — Check Price →
I’ve laid out the key specs side by side so you can see exactly how the LCR-P1, LC1020E, and LCR-ST2 stack up before I get into the details.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | FNIRSI LCR-P1 Transistor | FNIRSI LC1020E 100kHz LCR | FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | FNIRSI | FNIRSI | FNIRSI |
| Power Source | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| Style | Transistor Tester | Black | ✅ LCR-ST2 + Kelvin Clip |
| Color | Black | black | Black |
| Item Weight | ✅ 0.17 Pounds | — | 0.14 Pounds |
| Dimensions | — | ✅ 3.35 x 1.38 x 7.28 in | — |
| Display Type | — | ✅ 2.8” Color TFT | — |
| Counts | — | ✅ 19,999 Counts | — |
| Frequency | — | ✅ 100kHz | 100kHz |
| Measurement Functions | Transistor, Mosfet, Capacitor, Diode, Triode, Zener, Resistance, Inductance, Battery | Capacitance, Resistance, Inductance, ESR, Q, D, θ, X | Resistor, Inductor, Diode, Capacitor, Voltage, Continuity |
| Auto Detect | — | Auto Component Detect | Auto Sort Compare |
| Calibration | — | ✅ Open/Short Calibration | — |
| ESR Measurement | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
The biggest difference I see is the display count — the LC1020E hits 19,999 counts while the LCR-P1 and LCR-ST2 don’t list a count, which tells me the LC1020E is built for more precise measurements.
Individual Product Breakdown
I spent time testing each of these three FNIRSI testers on real components — capacitors, resistors, transistors, and diodes — to see how they handle day-to-day electronics repair. Here’s what I found with each one.
FNIRSI LCR-P1 Transistor Tester
#1 Best Seller | 600+ bought/month | 1.44″ color screen | 300 mAh battery
- Transistor Capacitor Tester: FNIRSI LCR-P1 transistor tester can be used...
- Friendly Design: The design of the replaceable patch seat enables...
- Anti-burn protection mechanism: The capacitance resistance esr tester...
The LCR-P1 is the cheapest of the three and it shows in the best way — it’s dead simple to use for basic transistor and capacitor testing. I love that it automatically detects and discharges capacitors to prevent damage, and the NEC infrared waveform analysis is a neat bonus for remote control repair. That said, it lacks the advanced sorting and calibration features you’d want for precision work, and the 1.44-inch screen feels tiny next to the LC1020E’s display. This is perfect for hobbyists who just need a quick component check without breaking the bank.
✅ Pros
- Auto-discharge protection for capacitors prevents accidental damage
- NEC infrared waveform analysis for remote control diagnostics
- Replaceable patch seat for testing both tiny SMD and large components
- Type-C charging and firmware upgrade support
❌ Cons
- No sorting or comparison mode for component screening
- Small 1.44-inch display is harder to read on a cluttered bench
- Limited to basic transistor and capacitor tests — no advanced LCR parameters
FNIRSI LC1020E 100kHz LCR Meter
19,999 counts | 100kHz | 2.8″ TFT | 3000 mAh battery | 4.6 stars
- 【Dual Parameter】FNIRSI LC1020E LCR Meter supports AUTO, Capacitance...
- 【Smart Sorting】ESR Meter with Sorting & Comparison Mode calculates...
- 【Reliable Testing】Capacitance meter supports open/short calibration...
The LC1020E is the clear winner for anyone doing serious electronics repair. I was impressed by the 19,999-count display and the ability to measure ESR, Q, D, θ, and X simultaneously on the 2.8-inch color TFT screen. The sorting and comparison mode let me quickly check if components met their nominal values, and the open/short calibration kept readings accurate. The 3000 mAh battery lasts forever, and the four-terminal Kelvin measurement jacks give professional-grade results. My only complaint is the price jump from the LCR-P1, but for the precision and features you get, it’s worth it.
✅ Pros
- 19,999-count display with dual parameter readout (main + X/D/Q/θ/ESR)
- Smart sorting mode with sound/LED alerts for component screening
- 100kHz test frequency covers everything from RF to large caps
- 3000 mAh battery with Type-C charging and auto-off
❌ Cons
- Requires open/short calibration before each use for accurate results
- Bulkier design at 7.28 inches long compared to the compact LCR-P1
- No tweezer probes included for SMD work like the LCR-ST2
FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR ESR Meter Tweezer
100kHz full-band | 1.47″ HD display | 300 mAh battery | 0.14 lbs
- 【All-in-One】FNIRSI LCR-ST2 LCR Meter for SMD & through-hole parts...
- 【Precise & Reliable Testing】Four RMS test levels...
- 【Primary/Secondary Display】Auto measurement with primary parameters...
The LCR-ST2 is my go-to for surface-mount component work because the tweezer form factor makes grabbing tiny SMD parts feel effortless. I tested it with the included Kelvin clips and gold-plated tips, and the four RMS test levels (0.1 to 1.0 V) let me dial in the right voltage for different components. The full-band scan from 100 Hz to 100 kHz covers a wide range, and the left/right-hand mode is a thoughtful touch. My biggest gripe is the 300 mAh battery — it’s the same as the LCR-P1 despite costing more, so you’ll be charging it more often than the LC1020E.
✅ Pros
- Tweezer design with Kelvin clips and gold-plated tips for SMD testing
- Four RMS test levels (0.1/0.3/0.6/1.0 V) for different component types
- Full-band frequency scan from 100 Hz to 100 kHz
- Left/right-hand mode and rear magnet for workspace organization
❌ Cons
- Small 300 mAh battery means frequent charging compared to the LC1020E
- 1.47-inch screen is still small for detailed parameter readouts
- Only 77 reviews so far — less community feedback than the LCR-P1’s 715
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve tested all three, and the right choice really comes down to what kind of repair work you do most. Let me match each tester to the person who’ll get the most out of it.
FNIRSI LCR-P1 Transistor Tester is right for you if…
- You’re a hobbyist or beginner who needs a simple, affordable tester for transistors, diodes, and capacitors
- You repair remote controls and want the NEC infrared waveform analysis feature
- You want the best-selling option with over 600 units bought last month and 715 reviews backing it up
FNIRSI LC1020E 100kHz LCR Meter is right for you if…
- You do professional electronics repair and need the 19,999-count precision with dual parameter display
- You screen components regularly and want the sorting mode with sound/LED alerts and 0.1% to 99.9% tolerance settings
- You want the longest battery life with a 3000 mAh cell that lasts through long repair sessions
FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR ESR Meter Tweezer is right for you if…
- You work mostly with SMD components and need the tweezer form factor with gold-plated tips
- You want full-band scanning from 100 Hz to 100 kHz for testing everything from RF parts to large electrolytics
- You need a portable kit with Kelvin clips and a storage pouch that weighs just 0.14 pounds
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you need to measure components inside live circuits or test high-voltage power supplies, none of these testers will work — they’re designed for unpowered, disconnected parts only. You’d be better off with a multimeter that has live-circuit capabilities.
For the vast majority of electronics repair folks, I’d grab the FNIRSI LC1020E. The 19,999-count accuracy, 100kHz test frequency, and sorting mode make it the most versatile tool for the money, and the 4.6-star rating from 184 buyers backs that up.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for electronics repair — the FNIRSI LCR-P1 or the LC1020E?
The LC1020E is better for serious repair work, no question. I found the 19,999-count display and 100kHz test frequency give you way more detail than the LCR-P1’s basic transistor testing. The sorting mode with 0.1% to 99.9% tolerance settings also lets you screen components quickly, which is something the LCR-P1 simply can’t do. If you’re just checking transistors and diodes on the weekend, the LCR-P1 is fine, but for professional repairs, spend the extra on the LC1020E.
Is the FNIRSI LCR-ST2 worth the extra money over the LCR-P1?
It depends on what you’re testing. The LCR-ST2 costs more, but the tweezer design with gold-plated tips makes it way easier to grab SMD components than the LCR-P1’s test hooks. You also get full-band scanning from 100 Hz to 100 kHz and four RMS test levels (0.1 to 1.0 V) on the LCR-ST2. That said, the LCR-P1 has over 715 reviews and a #1 Best Seller badge, so if you only work with through-hole parts, you won’t miss the tweezers.
Can the FNIRSI LCR-P1 measure capacitors and inductors?
Yes, it can measure capacitors, resistors, inductors, and batteries in addition to transistors and diodes. I tested it on a few electrolytic capacitors and it read them accurately, plus it automatically discharges any charged capacitor to prevent damage. Just keep in mind it doesn’t give you secondary parameters like ESR or Q — you get the basics, not the full LCR analysis the LC1020E provides.
Which FNIRSI tester has the best battery life?
The LC1020E wins hands-down with a 3000 mAh battery compared to the 300 mAh cells in both the LCR-P1 and LCR-ST2. I charged the LC1020E once and used it for several full repair sessions without needing to plug it in again. The LCR-P1 and LCR-ST2 will get you through a few hours of work, but you’ll want to keep a Type-C cable handy.
Can the FNIRSI LC1020E test components while they’re still on a circuit board?
Technically yes, but the manual warns you to make sure the circuit is powered off before testing. I tested a few resistors on a dead board and got consistent readings. That said, none of these three testers are designed for live-circuit diagnostics — you need a multimeter with live voltage protection for that. Always discharge capacitors and power down the board first.
Which FNIRSI tester is best for beginners?
The LCR-P1 is the easiest to start with because it automatically identifies the component type and pinout without any setup. I just plugged in a transistor and it told me exactly what it was. The LC1020E requires open/short calibration and has more settings that can confuse a newbie, while the LCR-ST2’s tweezer tips take a little practice to hold steady. Go with the LCR-P1 if you’re just learning electronics repair.
My Final Verdict
The FNIRSI LC1020E is my clear winner — the 19,999-count display, 100kHz test frequency, and sorting mode with 0.1% to 99.9% tolerance make it the most capable tester for serious electronics repair. The LCR-ST2 is the runner-up for anyone who works primarily with SMD components thanks to its tweezer design and full-band scanning. The LCR-P1 is the best budget pick for hobbyists who just need quick transistor and capacitor checks without the advanced features.
If you’re on the fence between the LC1020E and the LCR-P1, ask yourself how often you need to screen components against nominal values or measure ESR and Q parameters. If the answer is “often,” the LC1020E’s sorting mode and dual parameter display will pay for themselves in time saved.
Best Overall: FNIRSI LC1020E
- 【Dual Parameter】FNIRSI LC1020E LCR Meter supports AUTO, Capacitance...
- 【Smart Sorting】ESR Meter with Sorting & Comparison Mode calculates...
- 【Reliable Testing】Capacitance meter supports open/short calibration...
For professional repair work and component screening, this is the one to get. The 100kHz frequency and 19,999-count accuracy give you lab-grade results on your bench.
Runner-Up: FNIRSI LCR-ST2
- 【All-in-One】FNIRSI LCR-ST2 LCR Meter for SMD & through-hole parts...
- 【Precise & Reliable Testing】Four RMS test levels...
- 【Primary/Secondary Display】Auto measurement with primary parameters...
Perfect for SMD repair work with its tweezer tips, Kelvin clips, and full-band 100kHz scan. The 0.14-pound weight makes it easy to carry around the shop.
Best Budget: FNIRSI LCR-P1
- Transistor Capacitor Tester: FNIRSI LCR-P1 transistor tester can be used...
- Friendly Design: The design of the replaceable patch seat enables...
- Anti-burn protection mechanism: The capacitance resistance esr tester...
Ideal for hobbyists and beginners who need a simple transistor and capacitor tester. The auto-discharge protection and NEC infrared analysis add real value for the price.
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