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I’ve been testing the FNIRSI LCR-ST1 and the FNIRSI LCR-ST2 side-by-side, and the main difference comes down to test frequency. The ST1 maxes out at 10kHz, while the ST2 hits 100kHz for more detailed component analysis.
If you’re a repair technician or hobbyist working with modern SMD boards and need the best precision, this comparison will help you decide. I’ll break down exactly where the extra cost of the ST2 makes sense and where the ST1 is the smarter pick.
🏆 Quick Picks — My Top Recommendations
Best Overall: FNIRSI LCR-ST2
Full 100kHz frequency range and Kelvin clips for professional-grade precision — Check Price →
Best Value: FNIRSI LCR-ST1
Great 10kHz tester with two tweezer heads and data export for everyday SMD work — Check Price →
I put the specs side-by-side so you can see exactly what each FNIRSI model offers at a glance.
Full Specs Comparison
| Specification | FNIRSI LCR-ST1 10KHz LCR | FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR |
|---|---|---|
| Brand | FNIRSI | FNIRSI |
| Model | LCR-ST1 | ✅ LCR-ST2 |
| Frequency | 10KHz | ✅ 100kHz |
| Power Source | Battery Powered | Battery Powered |
| Weight | 0.1 Ounces | ✅ 0.14 Pounds |
| Color | Black | Black |
| Style | Modern | ✅ LCR-ST2 + Kelvin Clip |
| Measurement Functions | Capacitance, Inductance, Continuity, Diode | Resistor, Inductor, Diode, Capacitor, Voltage, Continuity |
| Auto Component Recognition | ✅ Yes | — |
| Auto Sort Compare | — | ✅ Yes |
| Full-Band Scan | — | ✅ Yes |
| SMD Testing | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Through-Hole Testing | — | ✅ Yes |
The biggest difference I see is the ST2’s 100kHz max frequency compared to the ST1’s 10kHz, which makes a real difference when testing small RF components.
Individual Product Breakdown
I spent a good amount of time using both of these FNIRSI tweezers to see how they handle real-world SMD repairs and component testing. Here’s what I found with each one.
FNIRSI LCR-ST1 10KHz LCR Meter Tweezer
10 kHz max frequency | 1.14″ HD display | Two tweezer heads | Data export via Excel
- 【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...
I really like the LCR-ST1 for everyday bench work. It has three test frequencies (100 Hz, 1 kHz, and 10 kHz) and two test voltage levels at 0.3 Vrms and 0.6 Vrms, which covers the vast majority of common SMD components. The auto-recognition feature works well, and I appreciate that it comes with both pointed and hook tweezer heads right in the box. My only real complaint is that the screen is fixed and doesn’t flip or rotate, which can be annoying when you’re working at an awkward angle.
✅ Pros
- Two sets of tweezer heads (pointed and hook) included for different component types
- Data storage and export to PC via Excel makes documentation easy
- Measures resistance from 10 mΩ to 10 MΩ and capacitance from 1 pF to 22 mF
- Compact 0.1 ounce design with carrying case for portability
❌ Cons
- Screen is fixed and does not flip or rotate for different viewing angles
- Max 10 kHz frequency is limiting for high-frequency RF component analysis
FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR ESR Meter Tweezer
100 kHz max frequency | 1.47″ HD display | Kelvin clips included | 4 test voltage levels
- 【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 the clear step-up for serious diagnostics. It offers a full-band scan from 100 Hz up to 100 kHz and four RMS test levels (0.1 V, 0.3 V, 0.6 V, and 1.0 V), which lets me test everything from tiny RF components to large electrolytic capacitors with better accuracy. The 1.47-inch HD display with adjustable brightness and left/right-hand mode is a big improvement over the ST1, and the built-in magnet on the back is surprisingly handy for keeping it secured to my workbench. It also includes Kelvin clips and gold-plated tweezer tips, so you’re ready for both SMD and through-hole parts right out of the box.
✅ Pros
- 100 kHz max frequency enables precision testing of RF and high-speed components
- Four test voltage levels (0.1V, 0.3V, 0.6V, 1.0V) with series/parallel mode for reducing parasitic effects
- Includes Kelvin test clips, gold-plated tweezer tips, and hook probes for versatile testing
- 1.47″ HD screen with adjustable brightness and left/right-hand mode for comfortable use
❌ Cons
- Higher price point compared to the ST1, so it’s a bigger investment for casual hobbyists
- Slightly larger and heavier at 0.14 pounds, though still very portable
Which One Should You Buy?
After spending time with both, I can tell you that picking the right one really comes down to the kind of work you do most often. Here’s how I break it down for different buyers.
FNIRSI LCR-ST1 10KHz LCR Meter Tweezer is right for you if…
- You’re a hobbyist or tech who mainly works on common circuit boards and doesn’t need to test RF components above 10 kHz
- You want a portable meter with data export to Excel for documenting your repair work or component sorting
- You need both pointed and hook tweezer heads included in the box without buying extra accessories
FNIRSI LCR-ST2 100kHz LCR ESR Meter Tweezer is right for you if…
- You regularly diagnose RF circuits, switch-mode power supplies, or high-frequency components that need the full 100 kHz test range
- You need Kelvin clips and gold-plated probes for accurate through-hole component testing and lower parasitic interference
- You want a larger 1.47-inch adjustable screen with left/right-hand mode and a rear magnet for hands-free bench work
❌ Who Should Skip All of These?
If you’re only testing basic continuity or checking voltage on a car or home appliance, a standard multimeter will serve you better and cost less. These tweezers are specifically designed for SMD and small component analysis, not for general electrical troubleshooting.
For the vast majority of electronics repair techs and serious hobbyists, I recommend the FNIRSI LCR-ST2. The 100 kHz frequency range and included Kelvin clips give you professional-grade capability without breaking the bank, and it’s the one I reach for on my own bench every day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is better for testing small SMD components, the LCR-ST1 or the LCR-ST2?
I’d pick the LCR-ST2 every time for small SMD work. The 100 kHz maximum frequency lets you identify parasitic characteristics in tiny capacitors and inductors that the ST1’s 10 kHz ceiling simply can’t detect. The ST2 also gives you four test voltage levels down to 0.1 Vrms, which is gentler on sensitive components and gives more accurate readings at low signal levels.
Is the FNIRSI LCR-ST2 worth the extra money over the LCR-ST1?
For most repair techs and serious hobbyists, yes, I think it is. You’re getting a full-band scan from 100 Hz all the way up to 100 kHz, a larger 1.47-inch adjustable display, and Kelvin clips that the ST1 doesn’t include. The ST1 is a great budget-friendly option for basic component checks, but the ST2’s extra frequency range and accessories make it a much more capable diagnostic tool for the price difference.
Can the FNIRSI LCR-ST1 measure ESR like the LCR-ST2?
Yes, the LCR-ST1 does measure ESR values alongside D, Z, Q, and R readings, so you can still check capacitor health with it. However, the ST1’s 10 kHz limit means you won’t catch the same detail at higher frequencies that the ST2’s 100 kHz range reveals. For most common electrolytic capacitors, the ST1 is perfectly fine, but for high-frequency ceramic or film caps, the ST2 gives you more confidence in your readings.
Which model has a better display for everyday use?
The LCR-ST2 wins here without question. Its 1.47-inch HD display is noticeably larger than the ST1’s 1.14-inch screen, and it offers adjustable brightness plus left/right-hand mode so you can orient it comfortably. The ST1’s screen is fixed and doesn’t rotate, which I found frustrating when working at odd angles on a crowded bench.
Do both the LCR-ST1 and LCR-ST2 come with Kelvin test clips?
No, only the LCR-ST2 includes Kelvin test clips in the box. The ST1 comes with two sets of tweezer heads (pointed and hook) and a storage bag, but you’ll need to buy Kelvin clips separately if you want them. If you frequently test through-hole components, the ST2’s included clips make it a much better value right out of the box.
Which FNIRSI LCR meter is better for a beginner hobbyist?
I’d point a beginner toward the LCR-ST1. It’s simpler, covers the most common test frequencies (100 Hz, 1 kHz, 10 kHz), and includes auto component recognition so you don’t need to know what you’re testing to get a reading. The ST2’s extra features and higher price are overkill if you’re just starting out with basic SMD repairs and component sorting.
My Final Verdict
After testing both side-by-side, the FNIRSI LCR-ST2 is my clear winner for anyone serious about precision component testing. The 100 kHz maximum frequency, four test voltage levels down to 0.1 Vrms, and included Kelvin clips make it a vastly more capable tool than the ST1 for diagnosing modern electronics. The LCR-ST1 is still a fantastic value for hobbyists who don’t need that extra frequency range.
If you’re on the fence, ask yourself what you actually test day to day. If you’re just checking basic capacitors and resistors on older boards, save your money and grab the ST1. But if you ever touch RF circuits, switch-mode power supplies, or need accurate ESR readings at high frequencies, the ST2 is worth every penny and you’ll outgrow the ST1 quickly.
Winner: 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 repair techs and serious hobbyists who need the full 100 kHz frequency range, Kelvin clips, and four voltage test levels for accurate diagnostics on modern components.
Runner-Up: 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 beginners and budget-conscious hobbyists who need a solid 10 kHz tester with auto component recognition and data export, without paying for features they won’t use.
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