Long Term Reliability of Some Cheap Multimeters

In this video, I took a look at several cheap multimeters and discussed the reliability issues with these multimeters.

For my previous review of these meters, please take a look at:

[crimsonhalo]

I have a DT830B that's been around for a number of years and the only issue I've had is the wires in the probe tips falling apart from regular use. Resolder/replacement fixed that issue. No issues with the switch (so far). It's amusing that something so cheap would outlast these meters.

[camurgo]

I own a number of cheap multimeters, my main ones are Flukes though. That said, I'm in electronic technician groups and over the years I heard a number of stories of people owing cheap multimeters for many years without any problems.

[leroyjr.]

Always a great day when Kerry releases a new Video. This was another great topic.

[TheDefpom]

So when you found it behind your desk, it wasn’t because you threw it against the wall was it?

[gordonwedman]

Over the years I have purchased older used Fluke and Tektronix multimeters. All of these failed for no apparent reason so nothing lasts for ever but then these were at least 20 years old. Checking the accuracy of your meters periodically is a good idea.

[FreiR]

In fact I noted this kind of reliability in cheap stuff. I think if the engeanering put some peace of efforts to detect and improve issues, a little bit of money can make miracle with these equipments.

[yambo]

BK Precision 2709B = $90 to $110.00 on ebay -- Ennologic M860T= currently $65.00 on ebay -- not really terribly cheap, it should have held up longer if thats what you paid at time of purchase, maybe not. Really cheap is $15 - $25.00. Longevity costs money, how long do you want it to last-?-lol With more and more Flukes being made in China I wonder how good the longevity will become on even their $300 - $400 meters in time. I have a Fluke 17B+ from China supposedly built to Fluke specs, right now no problems and I really like it for the price, but theres no warranty in the US and how long will (it) last since its likely made by one of the same manufacturers cranking out the budget throw-aways - only time will tell.

[yambo]

Maybe damaged when it fell behind the desk-?? Ive also had glitch range switches in a few cheap meters after some time.

[SidneyCritic]

My Vici VC99 started playing up after a year. Sometimes it doesn't start properly, so you have to turn it off and on again. It also doesn't seem to like Nimh unless they are freshly charged.

[uKcvPAq]

My $40 uni-t started having mode selector problems after a couple years, even after cleaning up the contacts it eventually comes back so that's something I have to look out for when out in the field and focusing on 100 different other things.

[Chriva]

I see a Mr. Wong video, I click like and I watch it. As always :)

[MrMac]

Have a cheap Sears Craftsman 25 years later still works perfect..

[originalmianos]

I got a Uni-T a few years ago. When I picked it up after not using it for a few months it was completely dead even though I put a new battery in. Banggood would not take it back as I did not have the original shipping plastic bag.

[scose]

Im no tool snob but I don't like to buy cheap measuring tools if they have any electronics or moving parts... You need to be able to trust it, because it's hard to know when it's failing.

[charlesdorval]

I have the 2709 as well. Best purchase I ever made or close to it anyway. Broke the stand though

[CliveChamberlain]

Ennologic meter was in logic lockup for so long, it fried itself? So, some credit goes to having an auto power-off feature..

[chrisblank]

if you'll use a meter 16 hours a day, then maybe buying a branded one would be the best choice. for hobby use 50 cent meters will do.

[John_Smith__]

Well in the wise words of multiple former generations: You get what you paid for .... :) :)
Those cheap meters are indeed not made for long lasting. I mean let's face it there is a very very tight limit of what you can offer for 25$ like in the case of the aneng. And there is also another problem, those cheap meters are all very very bad in terms of protections.
None of those is certified! the certification is a complete Fraud. The fuses for the protections they should have and Don't Have, cost More then 10$, so that alone would tell you they are Not CatIII, CatIV ... those are pretty Only printed values on the cheap plastic cover. They're not certified and they do lack enormously on that Basic functionality. I would Never place the anengs 8002/8008/8009 dmm on anything close to the state 10A, or 600V ! Those dmm are a dangerous hazard about to blow up in those circumstances.