Right after the invention of electricity in 1820s, a device called a galvanometer was invented to measure current. It was actually an earlier form of analog multimeter. Today we are enjoying troubleshooting through advanced level digital multimeters. But still, a best analog multimeter can give that pinpoint accuracy, which lacks in many modern world multimeters.
As trained electricians you have to deal with complex faults and maintenance operations in routine. Also for common and enthusiasts use accuracy is the most demanding thing when it comes to the selection of a multimeter. For that, we strongly recommend analogue multimeters as they are so simple to operate, need much less effort and come with amazing preciseness.
Also see, How to use analog multimeters
Analog multimeters are conventional tools that need less maintenance, have a hefty structure, simple to operate and of course not a big burden on your pocket like expensive digital multimeters. Especially for trainee and diy enthusiasts, this could turn into a valuable gift. You can test voltage, current, and many other parameters by these analog volt ohm meters.
Image | Name | Ratings | Price |
---|---|---|---|
Simpson 260-8 12388 Black Analog Multimeter | AC/DC 1000V 250A AC 10A DC R 20 M ohm -20 to +50dB | Check price | |
Gardner Bender GMT-319 Multimeter | 1000A AC/DC 10A DC R 10 M ohm -8 to +62dB | Check price | |
Tekpower TP8260L Analog Multimeter | AC/DC 1000V DC 10 A R 20 mega ohm | Check price | |
Gardner Bender GMT-312 Analog Multimeter | AC/DC 300V 150 m.A DC R 1 mega ohm -20 to +56dB | Check price | |
Hioki 3030-10 Analog Multimeter | AC/DC 600V DC 300 mA R 3 K-ohm -20 to 150 celcuis | Check price | |
Tekpower 20-Range Analog Multimeter | 500V AC/DC 10 A DC R 20 M ohm | Check price | |
Triplett Hand-Sized Analog Multimeter | 1200V AC/DC 0.6A DC R 20 M ohm | Check price | |
Gardner Bender GMT-318 Analog Multimeter | AC/DC 500V 250 mA DC R 50K -20 to +56dB (ACV) 250 Ma fuse | Check price | |
Elenco M105 15 Range Compact VOM | 1000V AC/DC 250 m.A DC Battery 9v 10k ohms | Check price | |
Sanwa Em7000 Analog Multimeter | 1000V DC AC 750V 150mA(DC) 6 A AC R 20 M ohm | Check price |
If you are really serious to buy an analog meter and confused about dozens of products available on market then this review can help you well. First of all, you should be clear about your needs and learning level. Don’t ever buy a product only on basis of its features. You should first emphasize that which product can sort out your issues fastly.
We researched and analyzed over 25 analog multimeters, and then finalized the best 10 of them. We compared them by their measurement capabilities, ease of use, safety, and price range. First, we define a criteria for scrutiny of meters, this evaluation process includes many steps like checking accuracy, quality of probes , testing features, AC and DC functions.
Our team of electrical professionals concluded this list of top analog multimeters according to the needs of beginners and high end users aswell. We reviewed them in deep with all their positive and negative aspects to provide you ease in wise selection. Please have a look at reviews given below,
Best Analogue Multimeters 2024 Reviews
1. Simpson 260-8 Best Analog Vom
Simpson 260 is a very old lad in the world of analog multimeters. It’s known for its unmatched accuracy, comfort of use, and durability. The very first attraction of this supreme quality analog multimeter is it,s pure USA based manufacturing. So some people who have concerns over quality and trust issues can have it with blind faith.
It has a wide range of ac, dc current, and voltage measurements as well as resistance testing. If we talk about safety, it will not let you down as come with reverse/recessed safety jacks to save user and tool from physical contact to electrical components. Strong shield across meter’s body assures safety from sudden shocks during movement.
We found it so simple to use, with extra features, accurate and easy to handle handy electrical tool.
Key features
- Full control by only two knobs, by which you can select functions and ranges.
- Tri colored display with mirrored scale to eliminate risk of parallax errors.
- Rugged structured phonelic case to provide extra durability.
- Overload protection by relay circuit.
- Built in handle for easy traveling.
- Safety jacks to prevent operator contact to electrical connections.
- AC/DC 1000V , 250A AC , 10A DC , R 20 M ohm , -20 to +50dB decibel
Things we like
Things we don’t like
2. Gardner Bender GMT-319 Best Analog Multimeter for Electricians
We already had included Gardner bender analog multimeters in this list. Reason behind adding another gardner bender multimeter tester is its ultra professional make design. People called it a little great, and that really suits it. It’s basically a 19 range 7 function multimeter that has many adorable features.
This manual range analog multimeter has an easy to read colored display. They added mirror scale to eliminate the risk of optical errors. These errors generate due to false deviation of meter needle from actual due to view angle or visibility issues. It has overload protection of fuse circuitry which is an agency approved.
You can test voltage, current, ohms, and continuity through this analog meter.
Key features
- 20 positions rortary dial of well elaborated ranges, colored markings.
- Fuse overload protection circuits are built in to protect meter .
- Mirror scale to avoid parallax errors.
- Decibel measurements to find transistor gain of eletronic circuits.
- Battery tester in range of 1.5v to 9v with battery’s health indication.
- Zero ohm adjustment feature in dial allows to reset ohm setting, also to perform internal battery test function.
- 1000A AC/DC , 10A DC , R 10 M ohm , -8 to +62dB
Things we like
Things we don’t like
3. Tekpower TP8260L Best Analog Multi Meter
Tekpower is a well known brand for producing a wide range of quality multimeters. We had reviewed many digital multimeters and found this best in all aspects along with their relatively lower price in the market.
This tekpower analog multimeter is an advanced shape of analog multimeters. From the very start, analog meters are usually built in a simpler way, with no additional functions or add ons due to their controlled price. But this TP8260L is really a modern analog multimeter as it has a more convenient wider display with backlight, covers dc current and ac/dc voltage readings, transistor checkpoint, stylish rotary range illustration and overload protections.
We can say it a best analog multimeter these days no doubt due to all factors which make it a multimeter better than others. You’ll really enjoy its supreme use experience.
Key features
- Built according to standards and terms of EN61010/IEC1010 . Also compatible to apply at heavy load installations like CAT II 600V, 20Kohm/V,DC, 8Kohm/V AC .
- Transistor test is available with help of transistor socket which is present on main interface. Also a led indication accompany the test.
- Wide display screen comes with backlight.
- Colored display reading indications, helpful to differentiate between various parameters.
- Meter is enclosed in protective case which is helpful to reduce probability of damage against falls and shocks.
- Decibel value in this meter is to check transistor gain measurement in electronic circuits, it should not be confused with sound intensity.
- Test leads included in package.
- AC/DC 1000V , DC 10 A , Resistance 20 mega ohm , Continuity , diode test , decibel measurements.
Things we like
Things we don’t like
4. Gardner Bender GMT-312 Analog Volt Ohm Meter
This gardner bender analog multimeter is the most reliable and high rated multimeter available in today’s online market. Due to its unmatched accuracy and impressive efficiency we placed it on our list. Obviously, everyone wants accuracy the most from a multimeter. Because results are the main goal in troubleshooting and maintenance tasks. It,s also so much economical in price, available at unbelievable price range.
When compared to digital multimeters analog multimeters may have fewer features and characteristics but they are sturdier hence longetive. Analog multimeters are simple to operate and have an easy user friendly operation process. Just like in this meter colored range helps to differentiate between different parameters and their range. If you are a newbie, university student, or electric enthusiast it,s a piece of cake for you to run this multimeter.
Key features
- It’s a manual range multimeter, ranges can be select through rotary dial switch.
- Zero ohm adjustment is pointed on dial to bring back pointer to zero position before measuring resistance of any object.
- Color coded display which includes ac readings in red color, dc in black and resistance readings in green color.
- Battery test with health indications, good in green color means battery is ok and replace indication in red color means battery has some serious issue and has to replace immediately.
- Fuse Overload protection circuit included in multimeter.
- Smaller in size, it can ideally fit into your work uniform’s pocket. You can easily take it with you anywehere without carry bags or tool bags.
- AC/DC 300V, 150 m.A DC , Resistance 1 mega ohm , -20 to +56dB decibels , Fuse 250 mA , Continuity test
Things we like
Things we don’t like
5. Hioki 3030-10 Analog Tester
This hioki 3030-10 is one of the most liked electrical testers. We like its professionally built outer design with elegant inner structure. It,s an average sensing multimeter which means you’ll get accurate readings while testing linear loads like an induction motor, elevator, electric lamp, and other applications with undistorted waveform.
One specialty of this unique multimeter is that you can check temperature through it. You may find temperature features in many digital multimeters but it’s hard to find an analog multimeter with this facility. Unfortunately, the thermistor probe which is required to perform temperature does not come with the package, you had to buy it separately.
Key features
- Manual ranging meter, which means range has to be set first before conducting any test.
- Meets international IEC Safety standard 61010 .
- Could be used at CAT 3 600V applications.
- Comes with standard quality detachable test leads set.
- Temperature test could be done with help of optional thermistor probe.
- It can bear 1 meter fall on concrete or hardwood surface without major loss.
- Battery test is available upto 1.5v batteries.
- Transient voltage protection with fuse.
- AC/DC 600V, DC 300 milliamps, R 3 K-ohm, Temperature -20 to 150 celcuis.
Things we like
Things we don’t like
6. Tekpower TP7244L 7-Function Analog Multitester
We must have to give credit to tekpower for providing us with some newly shaped analog multimeters equipped with advanced technologies and some add on features. It’s a true combination of classical technology and modern times luxury. This tekpower analog multimeter has 20 ranges and a backlight to see readings at dark locations.
We really impressed by its outer structure, until you do not know you can’t believe that it’s an analog multitester. From all over it gives the looks of a digital multimeter. It has fuse and diode overload protection. Nicely designed colored display is simple to understand, also rotary dial has colorized arrangement of ranges so sone can comfortably select one from them.
Key features
- Built according to requirements by international safety standards like EN61010/IEC1010 .
- You can aslo use it for high tension loads like CAT II 600V . But never try it without proper training.
- Zero adjustment feature, to reverse previosuly checked ohms to zero value before taking a new reading.
- Decibel value measurement to check transistor gain of electric circuits.
- Protected by strong case which enable it to survive environmental changes and give it extra durability.
- 500V AC/DC , 10 A DC , R 20 M ohm , Continuity , Decibel value.
Things we like
Things we don’t like
7. Triplett 3018 Analog Ohm Meter
In search of the best analog multimeter, we set criteria to include products in this list. One of them was accuracy because anyhow accuracy is the most needed thing when we talk about best multimeters. Durability and safety features are also so important for survival or tools in rough and tough work environments. This triplet analog multimeter passed our criteria to get a place in this list of top analog multimeters.
It comes in a small size with all functions that you can expect in a bench size VOM. It can fit into your uniform pocket or small carry bag easily and you can carry it anywhere without much effort. What we liked about it is its single selector switch, which is simple enough that a school kid can use it. You can turn the selector switch to any range before conducting tests.
Its outer body seems heftier and solid, can withstand minor shocks and mishandling.
Key features
- Diode protections against accidental overloads which can damage meter movements.
- High impact Protective case make it drop resistant, also save it from weather effects.
- Single selector system, which means you can siwtch to any range by switching from rotary selector only.
- Comes with 18 ranges and functions, high capacity to read voltage also.
- Comes with test leads, alligator clips and batteries. Alligator clips make sure firm contact of leads to circuit, so no possibility of errors due to loose connections.
- Separate lead sockets for ac, dc voltage and ohms.
- Available with optional nist certificate.
- 1200V AC/DC , 0.6A DC , R 20 M ohm
Things we like
Things we don’t like
8. Gardner Bender GMT-318 Analog Multimeter
To avoid fatal incidents regular monitoring and maintenance of electric devices and circuits have vital importance. For that purpose, multimeters are an extremely needed tool. You can check circuit breakers, wall outlet supplies, oven amps, battery health and many other features to avoid any loss. Especially in industries, they develop maintenance departments to maintain machinery.
This gardner bender best analog multimeter is capable of measuring 6 functions in 14 ranges. You can test ac/dc voltage, dc amps, resistance, battery, decibel value, etc. Separate sockets are present with a rating and relevant function marking for your ease. You can adjust leads according to the parameters being measured. Like in analog multimeters it also has color coded display.
Key features
- Manual range multimeter, ranges are indicated along rotary switch with colored indications. You may set range according to parameter magnitude.
- Built in fuse overload protection circuitry which is agency approved.
- Mirror scale is provided to reduce risk of parallax errors, so you can get actual readings and do not get deviated by view angle.
- Transistor gain readings of electronic circuits in decibel unit.
- Zero ohm adjustment dial to set resistance zero before any testing, also to do internal battery test.
- Battery test could be performed to check overall battery health.
- Certified and build according to standards of ETL cETL and CE .
- Manual is provided in three different languages, so one can understand easily in his native language.
- Suitable to use for heavy installations I.e CATII 500V .
- AC/DC 500V , 250 mA DC , R 50K , -20 to +56dB (ACV) , 250 Ma fuse
Things we like
Things we don’t like
9. Elenco M105 15 Range Analog Vom Meter
This elenco analog multimeter is just equal to the size of an old fashioned mobile phone. Equipped with all essential functions it can surprise you with its responsiveness and accuracy. The display has colored ac and dc reading range so one can differentiate easily. If we talk about the body, it has compact outer which makes sure that it will not suddenly break due to vibrations or low height falls.
It’s available at a reasonably lower price. But here low price does not mean lower in quality, you certainly have experience of some cheap analog meters who are a total loss to time and money.
Along with other basic functions, you can check battery health through this best analog multimeter. Battery health can be checked by graph in display, with red and green portions. If the needle is placed in green area that means battery is in good condition no need to worry. But if the needle comes to red portion that will indicate some serious issue and battery has to be replaced quickly.
Key features
- Comes with 15 ranges, arrayed across dial switch through colored markings.
- Colorized display with detail illustration for easy understanding.
- Have safety ratings of free usage at heavy installations I.e CAT 2 300V.
- Battery examination ability from 1.5v to 9v.
- Test leads, manual and batteries are included in package.
- Only 1 AA battery is required to power it. It’s quite good unlike other meters which have complex battery compartments.
- 1000V AC/DC , 250 m.A DC , Battery 9v , 10k ohms
Things we like
Things we don’t like
10. Em7000 Sanwa Analog Multimeter
The most common issue of conventional tools is they come with fewer functions. The range of measuring parameters is also much lower than in digital ones. But this sanwa best analog multimeter has the ability to change your mind in this aspect. It’s a classically built analog multimeter with advance level functionalities. Whether it’s high voltage readings or ac/dc amps measurements it will not disappoint you.
We liked its slim body and gorgeous design. A colored display helps in differentiating needle position while testing different functions. Meter has a compact body, so no need to worry about minor falls or shocks. Ranges are feasibly described by colored marking across rotary wheel, so you may easily switch range of your choice. You can also test fet transistor with this sanwa analog multimeter.
Key features
- Manual range accurate analog multimeter, for voltage, current and resistance.
- Colorized display, where ac/dc and ohm readings are indicated by red, blue and black color markings.
- Leads are feasible to use at high load systems like CAT III 600V and Cat II 1000V.
- Comes with a built in Fet tester, which means you can test field effect transistor by this amazing analog multimeter for electricians.
- Separate lead sockets for testing makes it easier for use by newbies or electronic trainees. So they can understand the process conveniently.
- Mirror scale included to prevent parallax errors.
- 1000V DC, AC 750V , 150mA(DC) , 6 A AC , R 20 M ohm
Things we like
Things we don’t like
Best Analog Multimeters Buyer’s Guide
If you are here at this stage of the blog, it means you are really interested in buying a best analog multimeter but still have some queries. We also expect you here to know more about analog multimeters and their use. If you aren’t yet clear about what analog multimeter you should buy don’t worry we are here to guide you. In this guide, we will cover all aspects and characteristics of best multimeters with respect to all technical fields.
We want to clear one thing here that one multimeter could not adjust in all fields or applications. First of all, one should focus on if the functions of a multimeter match his requirements or not. For example, an expensive multimeter equipped with all next level features is only trash for electronics beginners. Similarly in industrial use, simple meters can’t fulfill the needs.
Below are some important points to consider before making an analog multimeter purchase.
Functionalities
After accuracy, a multimeter’s functions are the most important factor according to us. Carefully read all features like ac/dc voltage and current and resistance ranges in analog multimeter. If you are specially buying it for your batteries then meter should must have a battery health indication function. As we described earlier many analog meters have battery health status indications on their display. You may check simply by connecting leads to positive and negative terminals, the rest will do the meter.
Similarly, if you are keen to have pinpoint accurate readings you should select multimeter with mirrored scale, that will eradicate parallax error risk. Zero ohm adjustment and transistor testing are also offered by some best analog multimeters. Now it’s up to you what you want?
Accurate results
Accuracy is a most demanding thing by electricians and mechanics. False or deviated readings can lead to unlimited loss which no one wants to bear. Select a multimeter with the highest possible accuracy. For that purpose read reviews and ratings. We select only those meters in this list that are good at giving actual results.
Safety and certifications
Don,t ever forget about safety. As electrical workers, we have to work in danger zones all the time. But as a common saying “every problem has a solution” taking safety measurements can save us from any fatal incident.
A best analog multimeter should have proper overload fuse protections. They should build according to the terms and conditions of international authorities like IEC and others. Body protections like drop protection, outer shields, and insulation are also worthy features.
More about Analog and Digital Multimeters
It’s a long debate and will not end sooner. As everyone knows before the digital revolution in early 1940,s analog meters were the only way to do electric troubleshooting. You can assess the importance of analog technologies as we are discussing them in these times when the world is entering a new era of science.
Now question here is what are the main differences between digital and analog multimeters. And for what reasons we should prefer analog over digital or vice versa. Answer is simple, digital multimeters have some preceptories over analog meters. Like DMM has a more convenient and quick result showing system, more controls like data holding, record keeping etc. Digital ones also have more features like capacitance, duty cycle, frequency and temperature testing.
While analog multimeters have one and the most important benefit over digital ones which is ultimate accuracy. Digital multimeters may have some errors or false readings sometimes but analog comes with a much less error ratio. Obviously, analog multimeters have another plus point of their lower cost. They are available at a much less price than their digital companions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ,S)
Leo Maxwell is basically an Electrical engineer and hobby tech writer, having 13 years of experience in the electronics and instrumentation industry. He has hands on experience working in various fields like Powerhouses, solar, automotive, and FMCG.
During his career, he has used many power tools and meters in electrical projects. Now his aim is to explain tools and troubleshooting in easy guides to help people. Other then it, leo loves traveling, reading books and DIY tasks.