When you need to accurately measure electrical characteristics then an automotive multimeter is the ideal tool for you. Allowing you to measure electrical items from voltage and resistance to capacitance.
This tool is great for diagnosing problems after getting accurate readings. Different automotive multimeters have varying functions and we have found the best options to show you what the possibilities are to help you decide which multimeter is for you.
COMPARISON CHART
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1. Klein Tools MM600 Multimeter
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2. AstroAI Digital Multimeter
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3. INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
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4. KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter
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5. Crenova MS8233D Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
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1. Klein Tools MM600 Multimeter
Features
- Measures up to 1000V AC/DC voltage, 10A AC/DC current and 40MΩ resistance plus temperature, capacitance, frequency, duty-cycle, test diodes and continuity
- Automatic ranging true root mean square (TRMS) technology for increased accuracy
- CAT IV 600V Safety Rating
- Low battery indicator and easily accessible battery and fuse replacement compartment
This automatically ranging digital multimeter that measures AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, and resistance. It can also measure temperature, capacitance, frequency, duty-cycle, test diodes and continuity. Exclusively designed from the ground up by electricians for electricians.
WHAT WE LIKE
This multimeter has every feature and then some, and even includes a storage case. The display is beautiful, backlit, and easy to read. The continuity beeper has a very quick response to a short which you do not find with similar options. When you switch to the resistance/continuity/diode test setting it defaults to continuity test which is useful. Solidly built meter which is pretty durable.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
There is just one switch position for voltage, not separate AC and DC. Once you switch to volts, it goes to AC and you have to then hit the button to select DC this can take some getting used to. Frequency measurement often displays twice the actual frequency for a few seconds before displaying the correct value.
PROS
- Includes useful storage case
- Easy to read display
- Quick response continuity beeper
- Solid and durable option
CONS
- One switch position for voltage
- Frequency measurements takes a while to accurately display
2. AstroAI Digital Multimeter
Features
- Large digital display with backlit LCD for visibility in dimly light areas
- Hanging magnet and kickstand make taking and recording measurements easier than ever before
- AstroAI multimeter is professionally designed to troubleshoot electrical problems
- Use the multi-function socket to measure both capacitors and transistors
The AstroAI True RMS Multimeter is designed to be safely and accurately used by professionals in a commercial setting or weekend DIYer’s that need a little more power utility from their standard digital multimeter. It’s easy and safe to operate with advanced features built for measuring seemingly everything. Run tests on diodes and transistors while being able to measure voltage, current, resistance, continuity, capacitance, and frequency, all on one device.
WHAT WE LIKE
The dual, plastic coated magnet on the back is very useful. It has a large, easy-to-read display. DC and AC RMS readings are well within the claimed specifications. The build quality is above average for a meter in this price point. The 6000 count display and claimed TRMS is still of interest and very usable. Accuracy and update speed are surprisingly good as is repeatability.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
The back-light switches off after 30 seconds and there is no way to override this. This makes it hard to use as you have to keep going to the meter to switch it on. The kickstand is very fragile and flimsy which is not ideal for effective use.
PROS
- Magnet on the back is useful
- Readings are within specifications
- Quality build at a low price point
- Accuracy and speed are good and repeatable
CONS
- Backlight on display turns off prematurely
- Kickstand is flimsy
3. INNOVA 3320 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
Features
- UL certified product designed to safely and accurately troubleshoot a variety of automotive and household electrical problems
- Auto-ranging scales automatically selects correct measurement range
- Features large digital display and color coded LED’s to easily check the charge status of batteries
- Single-setting resistance function for AC and DC voltage
The INNOVA 3320 is an Auto-Ranging Multimeter designed to accurately troubleshoot a variety of automotive and household electrical problems.
The auto-ranging scales eliminate the need to dial in the correct range when making electronic measurements. The 10 MegOhm input is safe for automotive and household uses.The color-coded LEDs allow you to quickly check household batteries.
WHAT WE LIKE
Auto-range function is really helpful, and works well. The display is well sized with a large readout screen. The probe storage is functional.
It’s light enough to hold in one hand while measuring, but large enough to stay in place. The probe wires are long enough for automotive testing. It shuts itself off and the battery lasts a long time.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
Beep for continuity test is way too soft to be useful if background noise is present, say with a running engine or fan motor. Plastic tabs on the case are not great. Probes are unlikely to stay in them like the picture shows, not even the slightest bit grippy.
PROS
- Good auto range function
- Large readout screen
- Light and functional multimeter
- Good length probes for automotive testing
CONS
- Beep for continuity test is too soft
- Plastic tabs on case are not ideal
4. KAIWEETS Digital Multimeter
Features
- Audible and visual indication of non-contact AC voltage testing and live wires testing
- Comes with smart and manual modes
- Anti-Burn with double fuses and overload protection on all ranges
- The built-in flashlight is a great touch and the big lighted display is easy on the eyes
The KAIWEETS digital meter combines ease of use with innovation, making it the perfect tool for any electrical project. The new generation of smart multimeter helps you quickly and effectively solve all problems related to electrical testing.
WHAT WE LIKE
The auto mode for volts, ohms and continuity is useful. The reminder you get on the display and the flashing light showing you where to plug the probes. It also alerts you about a blown fuse. The three year warranty gives you peace of mind. Display is easily read with all essential readings.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
The lack of a stand makes it unstable. Temperature is only displayed in celsius and not able to change to fahrenheit. No test lead attachments are included.
PROS
- Auto mode is useful
- Shows you where to plug probes
- Alerts about blown fuses
- Three year warranty
CONS
- Lack of stand
- No lead attachments
5. Crenova MS8233D Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter
Features
- Built-in Double Fuse with overload Protection on all ranges.
- Accurately measure AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, resistance, frequency, continuity, diode, etc
- Designed with 3 1/2 digit LCD display and ‘Backlight’, showing the reading clearly in low light areas
- Includes: Data Hold, Maximum Value Hold, Function Switching, Auto Power OFF. Sampling Speed: 3 times per second.
Crenova MS8233D Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter measures all the essential electrical characteristics accurately. Including a rubber holster for security, test lead holders to store your leads safely between uses, a support stand for ease of use and a clear LCD display for visible and clear readings.
WHAT WE LIKE
Comes with two sets of leads. One set with alligator clips which you can use one from each set and clip the alligator onto a grounding point. Small size will fit in any toolbox. The accuracy is really very good for this affordable option. Display is a nice size and the backlight is very helpful.
WHAT WE DONT LIKE
The leads are a bit on the short side. They’re about 2 ft long and could stand to be a little longer for ease of use. The auto-ranging function is a bit slow. When measuring resistance, it takes a little over a second to get a stable reading.
PROS
- Comes with 2 sets of leads
- Small size ideal for a toolbox
- Good accuracy and affordable
- Quality display
CONS
- Leads are rather short
- Auto ranging function is on the slow side
FINAL VERDICT
Automotive multimeters have varying functions and all of these top options will suit many diverse needs. Our best automotive multimeter has to be the Klein Tools MM600 Multimeter. It is truly one of the best multimeter packages available including a useful storage case. Designed by electricians it has every feature you could possibly need in a multimeter. A great and easy to read display that is user friendly gets you accurate readings everytime. It defaults to the continuity test which is useful. The continuity beeper also has a quick response time to a short which helps in diagnosing problems quickly. This meter is solidly built and durable so it will be your reliable multimeter for years to come.
