Klein vs. Fluke multimeter
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Klein vs. Fluke multimeter

Without a doubt, Klein and Fluke are two of the most popular DMMs out there. So which brand is best for you? Well, it depends on the use of the multimeter. Here is a detailed comparison of Klein and Fluke multimeters.

Both brands are really reliable and come with instructional designs. However, if you need a multimeter for industrial use, choose Fluke. If you are looking for a multimeter for home use, look no further than Klein.

Short description:

Choose Klein multimeters because:

  • They are easy to use
  • They cost less
  • They are an excellent choice for home use.

Choose Fluke multimeters because:

  • They are excellent quality
  • They are very accurate
  • they have a larger display

Klein Multimeters

In 1857, the Klein tools company began manufacturing various tools. In these 165 years of greatness, the Klein multimeter stands out as one of the finest testing instruments Klein has ever produced.

Klein Tools MM600 Multimeter and Klein Tools MM400 Multimeter can be considered the best multimeter among Klein multimeters. For example, these state-of-the-art Klein multimeters can measure up to 40 MΩ resistance, 10 A current, and 1000 V AC/DC voltage.

Fluke multimeters

John Fluke founded the Fluke Corporation in 1948. The company began its journey with the production of measuring instruments such as power meters and ohmmeters. Thus, this 74 years of experience has led to the creation of multimeters such as Fluke 117 and Fluke 88V 1000V.

These industrial multimeters are highly accurate and have an accuracy level of 0.5% to 0.025%. In addition, some models can measure DC current or voltage with an accuracy of 1 percent.

Klein vs Fluke Pros and Cons

Advantages of the Klein multimeter

  • Most Klein multimeters are inexpensive.
  • Capable of handling significant amounts of current, voltage and resistance
  • CAT-IV 600V safety rating (select models)
  • Very durable construction

Cons of the Klein multimeter

  • Poor quality compared to Fluke multimeters
  • Not the best testing tool for industrial use

Pros of a Fluke Multimeter

  • Highly accurate readings
  • They can be used for automotive applications
  • Some models can measure up to 20 amps
  • CAT-III or CAT-IV safety ratings

Fluke Multimeter Disadvantages

  • Expensive
  • Some models are difficult to use.

Klein vs Fluke: Features

After using various multimeters of both of these models, I can now give a correct comparison of Klein and Fluke multimeters. So, follow the section below to find which brand suits your needs.

accuracy

Whenever you buy a multimeter, the first thing you should check is its accuracy. Therefore, comparing Klein and Fluke multimeter accuracy is a must.

In truth, both of these marks are very accurate. But when it comes to accuracy, Fluke multimeters are the best choice.

For example, most Fluke multimeters are accurate between 0.5% and 0.025%.

Quick-Tip: The Fluke 88V 1000V Multimeter is 1% accurate on the DC ranges.

On the other hand, most Klein multimeters are 1% accurate.

The level of accuracy of Fluke multimeters can be useful for testing at an industrial level. This does not mean that the accuracy level of the Klein multimeter is ineffective. But it cannot be compared to Fluke. So Fluke is the winner.

Building

Having tested different multimeters of both these brands, I can say one thing. Both of them are reliable digital multimeters. But when it comes to reliability, Fluke multimeters have the upper hand. For example, the Klein MM400 multimeter can withstand drops from a height of 3.3 meters.

On the other hand, Fluke multimeters are designed for industrial use. Because of this, they can withstand more shocks, drops, and moisture compared to Klein multimeters.

The Klein MM400 multimeter impresses with its reliability. But it is not suitable for models such as Fluke 87-V.

Measurement types and limits

Both models can measure current, voltage, resistance, frequency, capacitance, etc. And most of the measurement limits are the same for both brands. To get it right, follow the diagram below.

Brand nameMeasurement typeMeasurement limit
Kleinvoltage1000V
Resistance40M
Current10A
Flukevoltage1000V
Resistance40M
Current20A

As you can see, both brands have the same voltage and resistance limits. But when it comes to current, the Fluke multimeter can measure up to 20A. Here are two examples.

  1. Randomness 117
  2. Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS

Easy to use

With CAT-III 600V rating, simple button settings, clear display and battery level indicator, both brands make it much easier to use. But some Fluke multimeters are difficult to use, especially for beginners, and may need professional help to operate these devices.

Klein is your choice if you are looking for an easy to use multimeter. They are indeed less complex than some Fluke multimeters.

safety

In terms of safety, both Klein and Fluke are CAT-III 600V rated (some models are CAT-IV). Thus, you can use them without any worries. However, make sure you only use them for their intended purpose. Otherwise, you may face accidents.

Both brands are fairly safe to use.

Price

When comparing cost, Klein multimeters have the edge. They are often cheaper than Fluke multimeters. But these inexpensive Klein multimeters will not be of the same quality as Fluke multimeters.

Most often, Klein multimeters cost half as much as Fluke multimeters.

Klein vs Fluke - standout features

Measuring capabilities 20A

Fluke DMMs such as the Fluke 117 and Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS can measure up to 20A. Compared to Klein 10A DMMs, this is a standout feature that can come in handy in many industrial applications.

Low pass filter

Some Fluke multimeters, such as the Fluke 87-V, come with a low pass filter. This low pass filter allows the DMM to accurately measure frequencies and is another great feature of Fluke DMMs.

Klein vs Fluke - Comparison Chart

Here is a comparison table of the two most popular multimeters Klein and Fluke; Klein MM400 and Fluke 117.

Specifications or FeaturesSmall MM400Randomness 117
BatteryBatteries 2 AAABattery 1 AAA
Battery TypeAlkalineAlkaline
Resistance40M40M
AC/DC voltage600V600V
Current10A20A
Item weight8.2 ounces550 grams
MANUFACTURER Small toolsFluke
ColorOrangeYellow
accuracy1%0.5%
Safety RatingsCAT-III 600VCAT-III 600V
Klein vs. Fluke multimeter

Quick-Tip: Both Klein and Fluke make clamp meters. 

Take a look at some of our articles below.

  • Klein multimeter mm600 overview
  • best multimeter
  • Multimeter resistance symbol

Video links

🇺🇸Fluke 87V vs. 🇺🇸Klein MM700 ( Multimeter Comparison )

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