There are several big brands providing clamp meters. Most of the meter generally look same and have all the functionalities. But their accuracy may differ which is detectable only if you test it thoroughly. That’s what we did to help you with the search. For us Amprobe AMP-210 ELSA2A is the best clamp meter and second best is the AIMO MS2108A.
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Top 7 Clamp Meter
1. Amprobe AMP-210 ELSA2A ST-102B – Best For Home Use
This is a clamp meter bundle by Amprobe. You are going to get a clamp meter, an AC line splitter and a socket tester with GFC. The clamp meter provides true RMS value true RMS value which is necessary to consider for DC components. This clamp meter measures DC/AC voltage to 600 V and AC current to 600 A. It consists of a low pass filter that accurately measures the current and voltage within different frequencies. Conductors up to 30mm can be easily accommodated. It also provides resistance and capacitance measurement capabilities to ensure proper safety of electrical connections. Test leads are provided along with installing batteries into the clamp meter.
We recommend this clamp digital meter because of its AC to DC splitter and other great functions. It is responsive and reads capacitance immediately. However, it is a small wire with amp testing is not able to read high voltages with much accuracy. But the error limit is acceptable to our technicians. As compared to other clamp meters in this price range, it got more features.
- Includes AC to DC line splitter.
- True RMS.
- Backlight for easy readings.
- Reads capacitance and resistance.
- Includes socket tester that detects wiring faults.
- High ohms readings may be less accurate.
Bottom Line
Looking at its feature and accuracy it is one of the best for home use as well as the professional use. However, we suggest to go for this professional quality meter if you are a professional who have to use the clamp multimeter for work.
2. AIMO MS2108A – Best For Professional Use
Aimo presents a digital clamp meter that measures DC/AC amps. It can also measure resistance, capacitance, frequency, duty, continuity, and diode test. The maximum voltage is mentioned at AC 750 V and DC 1000 V. The convert rate is 3 times per second. There is also over-range protection for all ranges. The reading hold lets you easily read the analog LCD screen. This clamp meter conforms to standards of class CAT III 600 V and degree of pollution 2.
The maximum jaw opening of clamps is defined at 26mm. However, it doesn’t include batteries. You have to purchase 3 AAA batteries separately. And, some specific instructions in the user manual are missing. The measurements are not so precise as usual but our experts are pretty impressed with the results when they compared it with another normal clamp meter. Overall, the device is of a perfect design with strong clamps and lower rubberized design. The weight of this clamp meter is not more than 260 grams and offer portability feature. Also, the price is unbeatable.
- AC DC clamp meter.
- Reading hold function.
- Over range protection.
- Resistance, capacitance, continuity and diode testing.
- Unbeatable price.
- Some specific instructions in the user manual are missing.
Bottom Line
The AIMO MS2108A is of professional quality. The ergonomics is simple, and highly efficient while working on a job. Among all the clamp meter it has the highest jaw opening.
3. Klein Tools CL200 AC – Best For Budget Conscious User
This is an AC Clamp meter by Klein Tools. It is also the best Klein clamp meter that we tested. Along with AC current, it also measures frequency, continuity, diode, capacitance, and temperature. The package includes the test leads, thermocouples, case, and batteries. It can accurately measure AC and DC voltage up to 600 V. This clamp meter is also having a data hold function. The device is CE certified with proper lab tests. Its functions are great, especially for HVAC applications. There is an automatic shut off to maintain long battery life. The safety rating is CAT III 600 V and the weight measured is not more than 290 grams.
However, the probe switch takes time for converting DC to AC. It is sometimes annoying. Also, the temperature reading function doesn’t work precisely as mentioned. Other than these, all the functions are quite impressive. The build quality is strong with good clamps. The price is fair with regards to the features they are offering. Well, you have to manually change the scale from DC to AC as the default settings are at DC.
- AC/DC clamp meter.
- Includes case, batteries, test leads, and thermocouples.
- Preferred for HVAC applications.
- True RMS.
- Automatic shut off.
- Temperature reading function inaccurate.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for clamp meter mostly of HVAC jobs, then Klein Tools CL200 AC is best for hvac among all the clamp that we tested.
4. Sperry Instruments DSA500A – Best For Electricians
This is an AC/DC digital clamp meter by Sperry instruments. It can measure voltage up to 600 V AC/DC. Along with the AC current, it also measures resistance, capacitance, diode tests, and continuity. There is a data hold and an auto shut off function. Its RMS sensor claims a good level of accuracy. This device is having a 9 auto-ranging unit. It is a non-contact clamp meter with shrouded transforming jaws to further increase safety. Also, the clamp meter is well certified according to IEC publications 61010 and a CE certification with CAT II rating of 600 V and CAT III rating at 300 V.
The material used is a little cheap. Also, you are advised not to use it for commercial purposes. And, there is no temperature reading function. Besides these, all works amazing. The price is also unbeatable with regards to the features offered. If you maintain it with care on a regular basis, then it can definitely last for a longer duration. Overall, the device is highly recommended because of its intended functions. It fluctuates to some extent at low voltage but doesn’t worry, the reading will be accurate with good error limit.
- AC/DC digital clamp meter.
- Well certified with IEC and CE ratings.
- Accurate readings for residential purposes.
- RMS sensor.
- Unbeatable price.
- No temperature reading function.
Bottom Line
Sperry Instruments DSA500A is another high quality clamp meter that can be used by the professional. It is another best for electricians.
5. Fluke 323 True-RMS – Best For 400 Amp Measurement
This Clamp Meter is digital that measures AC and DC voltage up to 600V, AC up to 400 amp, and the resistance to 4 Kilohms. The DC is not measured by the device and it is manufactured by the Fluke brand. It is considered to be the True RMS sensing meter and meets the IEC safety standard 61010-1. It is also rated for the CAT IV installations to 300V and CAT III installations to 600V. This model of the Clamp Meter by Fluke is mostly suited for the measurement of the current up to 400 Ampere in the compartments of tight cable.
The jaw opening of this clamp meter measures the current within a conductor which is up to 30mm without interrupting or touching the circuit. The clamp meter also consists of the audible continuity sensor and it is designed in such a way so that it can execute in the toughest environments. It provides noise-free and reliable results on which the user can trust on it to diagnose the problems confidently. The sensing meter helps in providing the accurate readings in case of measuring the non-linear or linear loads which are without regard to the waveform. Thus due to the True RMS measurements and the optimize ergonomics, it makes one of the leading general tools for troubleshooting for the commercial and residential electricians.
- It is certified by IEC and CE.
- It is easy to handle.
- It has all the necessary functionalities.
- It has true RMS sensor.
- Inexpensive compared to similar clamp meter.
- Not suitable for commercial purposes.
Bottom Line
Looking at the test results, we believe it is suitable for the residential electricians and even you can add it to your tool kit for home use.
6. Mastech MS2109A True RMS – Best For Extra Functionalities
This digital Clamp Meter measures the current up to 600 Ampere and has a jaw size of 26mm or 1.0”. It is a built-in non-contact voltage detector and provides a Type-K thermocouple contact temperature measurement. The dimension of the product is 22 cm* 8.1cm* 4.1cm. It has work light and Display backlight along with low battery indicator. This product is manufactured by the Mastech brand and the model number of the product is MS2109A. The capacity of the AC and DC that can pass through the meter is 60A and the resistance is 600 ohms.
The clamp tester has the maximum and minimum controlling power of the flow of current and can hold data along with the relative measurement. The presence of the functionality of the Auto-power off helps the user in easy and convenient access. The device supports the AC voltage of 6V and that of the DC voltage of 600mV. It measures the capacitance to 40nF and the clamp head frequency to 99.99Hz. The device supports the temperature range of -20°C~1000°C and the duty ratio ranges from 0.1-99.9%.
- It boasts accurate sensors.
- It has work light for low light conditions.
- It has low battery indicator.
- It comes with Auto-power off.
- It is expensive compare to other clamp meters.
Bottom Line
It has some very good features like auto-off and low battery indicators. If you specifically looking for the clamp meter with some extra features, Mastech MS2109A True RMS Digital Clamp Meter is a great option.
7. Tenma 72-7218 – Best For Beginner
This digital Clamp Meter bears full icon display and it measures AC/DC voltage and current along with resistance. The product is manufactured by the Tenma brand and the model number of the product is 72-7218. It is a compact digital clamp meter with sleep mode, continuity buzzer, and even low battery indicator. The device features the measure of 10MΩ input impedance and bears the auto-ranging display of count 1999. The dimension of the device measures to 11.5 X 6 X 2 inches. It is widely used for current measurement.
The product includes the test leads, zipper case, and owners’ manual for its easy execution. This measuring device requires two “AAA” batteries for feeding up enough charge. The feature of full icon display of the device shows all the readings of the current, voltage, and the resistance. It does not indicate a jaw like the design as that of the other clamp meters discussed before rather it features a sleek design enabling convenient accessibility and easy grip.
- It is easy to handle.
- It has full icon display.
- Overall build quality is good.
- Inexpensive.
- Does not have auto-off.
Bottom Line
If you are looking for the something very basic, Tenma 72-7218 Digital Clamp Amp is really good option. Especially it is one of the cheapest clamp meter that you can buy.
Buyer’s Guide- What To Consider?
Digital Clamp meters are a need of today. They comprise of many things like jaw openings, multi-functional operations to different measurements, etc. Thus, before buying clamp meters, you should consider the following points along with your specific requirements. Remember in mind that this electrical instrument is basically for reading different measurements.
1. Accuracy
It is the most considerable factor as all things are going to depend upon the readings. The best digital clamp meters always provide accurate readings. Thus, accuracy with precision is a must. However, all of the clamp meters come with an error limit. This error limit is prevalent in every usually every clamp meter. The point here is that the error factor should be less as possible. It should be around 0.5%-0.8%. The true RMS readings are a plus point and necessary to consider in case of DC measurements.
2. Additional Functions
Most of the clamp meters come with additional functions of measuring resistance, capacitance, etc. along with the current. So, you can also consider this point if making an investment to buy the clamp meter. There are many other functions such as measuring temperature, resistance, capacitance, diode, and continuity. All these functions associated with a clamp meter make it more useful with no requirements of some additional tools. Mastech MS2109A is one of the best if you are looking for the extra functions.
3. Quality
To make it your buddy for a long period, look at its build quality. It should be heavy-duty plastic with tough construction and necessary ruggedness. Some of the clamp meters have also rubber toppings that make their hold easy.
4. Proper certifications
A good electrical device always comes with a safety feature as its priority. Here I am referring to proper lab tests and certifications. The common certifications that you can look for are CE, IEC, etc. However, there are much more authorized certifications or rankings that claim the better performance and safety of the device.
5. Meter ratings
Make sure to look for the current measurements. They are necessary and indicates what you are looking for. So, consider the maximum voltage or current holding of a clamp meter. This is because using clamp meter other than its intended ratings can cause harm to the electrical equipment as well as the user. For instance, if you are an electrical guy and looking to use clamp meter for industrial purposes, then see its suitable use and maximum meter ratings. On the other hand, see the suitable use in case of residential purposes. If you are specifically looking for the home use then go for Amprobe AMP-210 ELSA2A.
6. Environment
Your clamp meter should be suitable to work in all types of environmental conditions. A clamp meter has to work usually in different environments, unlike digital multi-meter. Thus, it should be capable of withstanding various temperatures. This is why some of the clamp meters come with temperature reading functions. However, you should particularly look for the temperature tolerance features before buying a clamp meter. This would help you to purchase specific clamp meters for high temperatures.
Final Thought
During tests we realized that most of the clamp meter has all the basic functionalities but unless you use it or test it you know the difference. With this post you will be able to identify the clamp meter for your requirements using our test and knowledge. For more detail on the products you can always check the seller’s site.
Amprobe AMP-210 ELSA2A ST-102B- Editor's Choice
Summary
Looking at its feature and accuracy it is one of the best for home use as well as the professional use. However, we suggest to go for this professional quality meter if you are a professional who have to use the clamp multimeter for work.
Thankyou. Very helpful information.
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