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I’ve spent serious time with all three of these FNIRSI LCR meters — the LC1020E bench unit, the LCR-ST2 tweezer, and the LCR-ST1 budget tweezer — and they each serve a different crowd. The LC1020E pushes a 100kHz test frequency with a 19,999-count display, while the LCR-ST2 hits 100kHz in a portable form, and the LCR-ST1 tops out at 10kHz.
If you’re a repair tech, hobbyist, or engineer who needs to measure capacitors, inductors, and resistors with real accuracy, this comparison is for you. The main trade-off is bench precision versus portability — and I’ll tell you exactly which one to grab.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: FNIRSI LC1020E
Best bench precision with 100kHz, 19,999 counts, and dual parameter display for serious component analysis — Check Price →
Runner-Up: FNIRSI LCR-ST2
Portable 100kHz tweezer with full-band scan and Kelvin clips for SMD work — Check Price →
Best Budget: FNIRSI LCR-ST1
Affordable 10kHz tweezer with auto component recognition and data export for basic repairs — Check Price →
I’ve lined up the key specs side-by-side so you can see exactly how the FNIRSI LC1020E, LCR-ST2, and LCR-ST1 stack up on paper before I get into the real-world testing.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | FNIRSI LC1020E 100kHz LCR | FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR | FNIRSI LCR-ST1 10KHz LCR |
|---|---|---|---|
| Brand | FNIRSI | FNIRSI | FNIRSI |
| Model | ✅ LC1020E | LCR-ST2 | LCR-ST1 |
| Frequency | ✅ 100kHz | 100kHz | 10kHz |
| Display Type | ✅ 2.8″ Color TFT | — | — |
| Counts | ✅ 19,999 | — | — |
| Power Source | Battery Powered | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| Color | Black | Black | Black |
| Dimensions | ✅ 3.35×1.38×7.28 in | — | — |
| Weight | — | ✅ 0.14 Pounds | 0.1 Ounces |
| Measurement Functions | R, L, C, ESR, Q, D, θ, X | R, L, C, D, V, Continuity | R, L, C, ESR, D, Continuity |
| Auto Detect | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Sorting | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes | — |
| Calibration | ✅ Open/Short | — | — |
| Style | Black | ✅ LCR-ST2 + Kelvin Clip | Modern |
The biggest spec difference I see is the LC1020E’s 19,999-count display and 100mF capacitance range versus the LCR-ST1’s 10kHz limit and 22mF cap — that’s a serious gap if you’re measuring larger electrolytics.
Individual Product Breakdown
I tested each of these FNIRSI LCR meters in my workshop measuring capacitors, inductors, and resistors to see how they handle real-world diagnostics. Here’s what I found with the LC1020E bench unit, the LCR-ST2 tweezer, and the LCR-ST1 budget option.
FNIRSI LC1020E 100kHz LCR Meter
100kHz | 19,999 Counts | 2.8″ TFT | 3000mAh Battery
- 【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 real deal for bench work. I loved the dual parameter display showing primary and secondary values like ESR and Q simultaneously — that 19,999-count resolution caught tiny changes in a 10µH inductor that my other meters missed. The open/short calibration and adjustable test voltage (0.1/0.3/0.6V) give you control over measurements, and the 100kHz frequency is great for RF work. It’s not pocket-friendly at 7.28 inches long, and the 3000mAh battery lasts fine but you’ll want it plugged in for heavy use.
✅ Pros
- 19,999-count display for high precision measurements
- 100kHz test frequency covers RF components
- Sorting mode with tolerance from 0.1% to 99.9%
- Kelvin 4-terminal measurement with 3-pin sockets
❌ Cons
- Bulky for field work at 7.28 inches long
- Requires open/short calibration before each use
FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR ESR Meter Tweezer
100kHz | 1.47″ HD Display | 300mAh 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 SMD repairs. That 100kHz full-band scan from 100 Hz to 100 kHz is perfect for testing RF components and large electrolytics in one sweep, and the Kelvin clip accessory makes through-hole measurements stable. I like the four RMS test levels (0.1/0.3/0.6/1.0V) for reducing parasitic effects on sensitive parts. The battery is only 300mAh so you’ll charge it often, and the 1.47-inch screen is small but readable.
✅ Pros
- Full-band scan from 100Hz to 100kHz for broad coverage
- Four test voltage levels for parasitic reduction
- Includes Kelvin clips, curved tips, and storage pouch
- Left/right-hand mode for comfortable use
❌ Cons
- Small 300mAh battery needs frequent charging
- 1.47-inch display is cramped for detailed readings
FNIRSI LCR-ST1 10KHz LCR Meter Tweezer
10kHz | 1.14″ Display | Type-C Charging | 0.1 oz
- 【LCR Tweezer Tester】The FNIRSI LCR-ST1 is a multifunctional and...
- 【Measurement Range】3 test frequencies – 100 Hz, 1 kHz, 10 kHz. 2 test...
- 【Multiple functions】D, Z, Q, R, ESR value reading. Auto recognition of...
The LCR-ST1 is the budget pick that still gets the job done for basic diagnostics. It auto-recognizes components and shows primary and secondary parameters like D, Z, Q, and ESR on the 1.14-inch screen, which is small but sharp. I measured capacitors from 1pF to 22mF and resistors from 10mΩ to 10MΩ without issues, and the data export via Excel is a nice bonus for documenting repairs. The 10kHz limit means you can’t test high-frequency RF parts, and the fixed screen doesn’t flip for left-handed users.
✅ Pros
- Auto component recognition saves time on repairs
- Data export to Excel for documentation
- Ultra-light at 0.1 oz with included storage bag
- Two tweezer head types for different components
❌ Cons
- 10kHz max frequency limits RF component testing
- Fixed screen doesn’t flip or rotate
Which One Should You Buy?
I’ve spent enough time with all three to know there’s no single “best” meter — it really depends on whether you’re doing bench-level diagnostics or quick SMD tweezers work. Here’s how I’d match each one to the right buyer.
FNIRSI LC1020E 100kHz LCR Meter is right for you if…
- You need the highest precision with a 19,999-count display and 100kHz frequency for RF component testing
- You’re sorting components by tolerance with the 0.1% to 99.9% comparison mode and want sound/LED alerts
- You work at a bench and want dual parameter display (like ESR plus Q) on a 2.8-inch TFT screen
FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR ESR Meter Tweezer is right for you if…
- You repair SMD boards and need a portable 100kHz tweezer with full-band scan from 100Hz to 100kHz
- You want four test voltage levels (0.1/0.3/0.6/1.0V) to reduce parasitic effects on sensitive components
- You need Kelvin clips and gold-plated tips for accurate four-terminal measurements in tight spaces
FNIRSI LCR-ST1 10KHz LCR Meter Tweezer is right for you if…
- You’re a hobbyist who needs a basic LCR tweezer for through-hole and SMD parts without breaking the bank
- You want auto component recognition and data export to Excel for documenting your repairs
- You only work with components up to 10kHz and don’t need high-frequency RF testing capability
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you’re measuring high-voltage circuits, testing live equipment, or need a full multimeter with current and voltage measurement for mains work, none of these LCR meters will cover you — grab a proper multimeter instead. These are strictly for passive component testing on unpowered boards.
For most hobbyists and repair techs, I’d grab the FNIRSI LC1020E if you want bench precision, or the LCR-ST2 if portability is your priority — the LCR-ST1 is a solid backup for basic work but the 10kHz limit will frustrate you eventually.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for precision — the LC1020E bench meter or the LCR-ST2 tweezer?
The FNIRSI LC1020E wins on precision every time thanks to its 19,999-count display and 2.8-inch TFT showing dual parameters like ESR and Q simultaneously. I also love that you can adjust test voltage between 0.1V, 0.3V, and 0.6V and run open/short calibration before measuring. The LCR-ST2 is great for portability but that tiny 1.47-inch screen and lack of calibration controls mean the LC1020E is the better choice if accuracy matters most.
Is the LCR-ST2 worth the extra money over the LCR-ST1?
Yes, if you work with RF components or need higher test frequencies. The LCR-ST2 hits 100kHz with a full-band scan from 100Hz to 100kHz, while the LCR-ST1 tops out at 10kHz. I also prefer the ST2’s four test voltage levels (0.1/0.3/0.6/1.0V) for reducing parasitic effects on sensitive parts, and the included Kelvin clips make through-hole measurements more stable. The LCR-ST1 is fine for basic capacitor and resistor checks, but the ST2 is worth the step up for serious diagnostics.
Can the LCR-ST1 measure ESR like the other two?
Yes, the LCR-ST1 does read ESR values along with D, Z, Q, and R on its 1.14-inch display. I tested it on a few electrolytic capacitors and got consistent ESR readings. Just keep in mind that the ST1 only has two test voltage options (0.3V and 0.6V) compared to the LC1020E’s three and the LCR-ST2’s four, so you have less control over measurement conditions.
Which LCR meter is best for testing SMD components?
The LCR-ST2 is my pick for SMD work because it’s a tweezer-style meter with gold-plated tips and a quick plug-and-swap design for different probes. I can grab tiny 0402 resistors and capacitors without fighting with test leads, and the 100kHz frequency covers RF SMD parts. The LCR-ST1 is also a tweezer and works for SMD, but the 10kHz limit means you’ll miss higher-frequency behavior. The LC1020E is a bench unit with 3-pin sockets and Kelvin fixtures, so it’s less convenient for quick SMD checks.
Can any of these meters measure voltage or test diodes?
The LCR-ST2 is the only one that explicitly measures voltage (up to ±30V DC) and continuity, plus it tests diodes with a threshold of ≤0.7V. I found this handy for quick board checks without switching to a multimeter. The LC1020E and LCR-ST1 are focused purely on passive components — they measure capacitance, resistance, and inductance but won’t give you a voltage reading. If you need voltage and diode testing in one tool, the LCR-ST2 is the way to go.
How do the battery lives compare between these three meters?
The LC1020E has a massive 3000mAh battery that I can use for days of bench work without recharging, plus it has Type-C charging and an auto-off feature. The LCR-ST2 only packs a 300mAh battery, so I’m charging it every couple of sessions — that’s the trade-off for the tiny tweezer form factor. The LCR-ST1 is similarly small and charges via Type-C, but I haven’t seen a specific mAh rating listed. For extended field use, the LC1020E’s battery is in a different league.
My Final Verdict
The FNIRSI LC1020E is my clear overall winner — the 19,999-count display, 100kHz test frequency, and dual parameter readout make it the most capable LCR meter for precision bench work. If you need portability for SMD repairs, grab the LCR-ST2 with its full-band scan and Kelvin clips instead. The LCR-ST1 is fine for basic checks but the 10kHz limit holds it back.
If you’re on the fence between the LC1020E and LCR-ST2, ask yourself one question: are you mostly at a bench or crawling over circuit boards? The LC1020E’s 3000mAh battery and 2.8-inch screen make it a joy for serious diagnostics, while the LCR-ST2’s 0.14-pound weight and tweezer design win for field repairs.
Winner: FNIRSI LC1020E 100kHz LCR Meter
- 【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...
Best for engineers and repair techs who need bench-level precision with 19,999 counts, 100kHz frequency, and sorting mode with 0.1% tolerance. The dual parameter display and open/short calibration give you confidence in every reading.
Runner-Up: FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR ESR Meter Tweezer
- 【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...
Best for SMD repair work where portability matters. The 100kHz full-band scan and four test voltage levels give you lab-quality measurements in a pocket-friendly tweezer with Kelvin clips.
Third Place: FNIRSI LCR-ST1 10KHz LCR Meter Tweezer
- 【LCR Tweezer Tester】The FNIRSI LCR-ST1 is a multifunctional and...
- 【Measurement Range】3 test frequencies – 100 Hz, 1 kHz, 10 kHz. 2 test...
- 【Multiple functions】D, Z, Q, R, ESR value reading. Auto recognition of...
Best for hobbyists on a budget who need basic capacitance, resistance, and inductance measurements. The auto component recognition and Excel data export are nice extras, but the 10kHz limit means it’s not for RF work.
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