EEVblog #1083 - Pocket Multimeter Shootout

14 pocket multimeters from $8 to $65 are torn down and compared for feature set and build quality.
Ranging in price from $8 to $65, which one is the best in each price category?
Part 2 coming tomorrow.
Timestamps:
6:07 XB866 Wun Hung Lo
9:42 ANENG AN8203
15:47 $10 Shootout Summary
16:14 Uni-T UT10A
19:12 Uni-T UT120B/120C
22:41 UNI-T Shootout Summary
23:05 Jaycar QM1544
26:42 $20 Shootout Summary
27:06 Sanwa PM3
31:06 Brymen BM22 / Amprobe PM51
37:31 Kyoritsu KEW1018
42:01 Hioki 3244-50 CARD Tester
45:47 Amprobe DM78C
50:25 DER EE DE-19S
56:27 SANWA PM300
1:02:36 Conclusion

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[jimix]

Best portable multimeter:
1-12v: Tonge
12-32: Wet fingers
32-64: Dry fingers
64-110: Fast moving touch action
110+ :Don't recomend trying

[fluffyfloof]

Hey Dave, and all the DIY-PSA-aficionados; you won't cross-thread self-tapping screws during reassembly, when you insert them, but then turn them left (counter-clockwise) until you feel the thread registering, then you turn them right; reuse the existing thread! Works every time, no worries! :D

[sanityd]

Ty for addressing the AN80008, that was my first question. Mine is currently in my pocket.

[johnrobinson]

I have the little Sanwa. Didn't know about this 'shootout' (bought it several years ago), just went to Akihabara and got one with the functions I wanted at a price I was willing to pay. Glad to hear it is really good.

[jorno]

DER EE has a model with a current probe included (DE-19A), thats what the compartment in the back is for.

[simonmason]

I use a Sanwa PM11 it's a great meter has never let me down, another great video Dave keep erm coming and be careful when probing ones self.

[LeMeBucallion]

I have the UNI-T and i am very happy with it.

[brooknet]

Dave, thanks for this - your expert opinion on these DMMs is really appreciated. Speaking as someone who wouldn't know a PTC from a hole in the head, it's good to know when I'd be throwing my money away or spending it wisely.

[bluecurvedesign]

I've had a Uni-T UT10A for several years, it has been fantastic for a throw around quickie meter. Also cheap to replace if you fry it!

[iamdarkyoshi]

My favourite was the ol' tandy/radioshack one with the integrated cable wind in the top cover, it was not much larger than a mobile phone. Not a smartphone, an older smaller phone.

[Bushougoma]

8:16 that's why there is a screw on the battery cover they are using it to keep the case from popping apart since it's only secured by clips a bit dodgy but it works.

[KurtMcScotsman]

Such a great video, been hoping you'd do a pocket multimeter video. Looking forward to Part 2!

[RiyadhElalami]

Sanwa PM3 is a clear winner out of all of these for sure.

[aodhmacraynall]

I can't thiank you enough for taking your time to do this. Fascinating!

[KeepOnTesting]

BOTH Sanwa's you demo are made in China. The Sanwa PM3 says Tokyo Japan. It does not say Made in Japan, there is a big difference.
Sanwa outsources many of it's Meters. Only a handful are actually made on the island! Cheers!

[sprybug]

Thanks Dave! It's good to see what I can get for a $20 pocket MM. I just went and purchased that UNI-T UT10A!

[rdoursenaud]

The UNI-T UT10A design is clearly "inspired" from the Sanwa PM3! Identical exterior, interface and features. Similar general internal layout…
Hum, do I get the original or 2 copies for the same price? Decisions.

[zukjeff]

please add columns that indicate the diode test voltage and the lead voltage when on continuity.. just got a new Fluke 179 only to find the continuity test has the leads at 7volts !. thanks for your time Dave.

[Solder-Flowz]

Oh Jesus Christ.. Dave Jones with a transillion of multimeters.. again! This Aussie is obsessed!!! :P

[ElmerFuddGun]

A pocket meter needs to be small, protected and low cost. The Aneng AN8203 would be my choice. AAA batteries, 4000 count, true RMS, best rotary switch (one handed), good buzzer, and no current meter which is good. And the case will actually stand up while in use. And it is a fraction of the cost of the higher priced models. If I need to read current, need more accuracy, or a higher CAT rating then I will use a "bigger" meter.