Rating of the best current clamp for 2020

In this review, we will tell you what a clamp meter is used for, what is the difference between a multimeter and a clamp meter, how to use this tool, and what mistakes are encountered when choosing, as well as give our tips and advice, which manufacturers and which models you should pay attention to. ...

What are multimeter clamps for?

Clamp meters are used to measure the parameters of the electric current flowing through circuits or active devices to which we apply the measuring device.

Clamps allow you to measure current intensity, including under voltage, which saves time. In addition, some specialized machines simply cannot be disconnected from the mains, so measuring the current strength with other types of meters (for example, multimeters) becomes impracticable or at least very difficult.

Another advantage of the clamp is a faster measurement speed than would be possible with a multimeter or other device connected to the wire terminals. They are great, for example, for measuring the starter current in a car or in specialized programs, for plotting the performance characteristics of large pumps or motors in factories or during construction / renovation.

What indicators are measured by the current clamp?

Clamps are used to measure AC and DC current. The principle of operation of the meters varies depending on the measured current.

AC clamps

They work according to the Ampere principle, being actually a current transformer. This means that the clamp has a secondary winding in the measuring circuit and a primary winding on the clamps that the operator fixes on the wires. This enables us to accurately measure the current flowing through electrical components. The DC clamp meter works according to the Hall effect principle.

Clamps are mainly used to measure electric current, but they can be equipped with additional functions such as measuring AC or DC voltage, measuring temperature, resistance, capacitance or checking the continuity of a conductor. The number of additional functions depends on the class and type of equipment. Many clamps can easily replace a multimeter.

DC meter

The DC clamp meter uses the Hall effect in its work. This phenomenon is due to the presence of different potentials in conductors that conduct electric current.If these conductors are placed perpendicular to the current lines of the magnetic field, then a potential difference will appear on the conductor, that is, the Hall voltage. Hollotrons are used in DC meters. These are magnetometers that measure the intensity of magnetic fluxes.
A good clamp meter is capable of measuring both AC and DC currents, as well as AC and DC voltages.

Selection criteria for current clamp

The pliers must be suitable for the type of work being carried out and the environment in which they will be used. They must perform their function perfectly in terms of accuracy and must be affordable. Also, the specification of the pliers includes accuracy, build quality and possible resistance to weathering and mechanical damage.
Among the popular models, there are different types of meters. If you plan to carry out measurements in difficult environmental conditions, then you need to choose a device that will make our work as easy as possible - for example, it will be equipped with flexible pliers or a special rod with electrical protective means for fastening, which will allow you to measure current and other values ​​in hard-to-reach places. Let's leave the question of how much a good device costs.

Range

The meter's range is very important. It determines from what and to what current values ​​we can apply the device. Some clamps are capable of measuring even very high currents.
However, let's define which is more important - high accuracy or application. Both of these parameters often do not go hand in hand, and even if you find an instrument with an acceptable range, its price will be quite high.

• Accuracy

The accuracy of the clamp determines what maximum measurement error the device can give during operation. The greater the accuracy, the closer the result will be to the real value. The accuracy of the counters is indicated as a percentage. For example, if you measure a value of 100 A and have an error of 5%, then the actual value of the current can vary from 95 to 105 A.

• Current frequency measurement

Clamps often measure AC frequency. This is extremely useful when looking for harmonic problems. An interesting and useful function is also the memorization of specific measurements or the minimum, maximum and average values ​​for a series of measurements. The maximum and minimum measurements are updated automatically as they are taken.

• Resistance measurement

Resistance measurement is also an important function of the meter. Continuity measurement allows you to check if the circuit is open or closed. In this way, we can quickly find out about a circuit damage or undetected closing / opening. Some counters also have a sound alert.

• Capacitance measurement

Another interesting feature is the capacity measurement. This feature can be found in more modern meters. This function allows you to understand if the motor is drawing enough current when starting from the capacitor.
IEC standard: When choosing a meter, you should follow the precautions of the ISO / ESC safety standards, which define the voltage categories in which measurements are allowed.

Multimeter or Clamp Meter?

The choice should depend on what kind of work you plan to do. Multimeters are better suited for network operations and are often less expensive than clamp meters. Clamps, on the other hand, are more readily used by professional electricians to quickly and efficiently measure various electrical values ​​such as current, voltage, resistance, capacitance, or current frequency. The functionality depends on the quality and price aspect of the device.

Multimeters are somewhat cheaper and offer slightly more extensive measurement options. The best multimeters are capable of measuring almost any electrical quantity.They measure temperature, capacitance, current, voltage, frequency, continuity, resistance, and more.

Top best measuring clamps

We strongly advise against buying products from unknown companies and cheap Chinese products. Such equipment, even at home, can pose a risk to the health and life of the operator. In addition, their quality is poor and they usually do not live long.

The selection criteria are generally simple. It is best to choose counters from trusted manufacturers with a reputation in the market. If you plan to use ticks at home, then the new items from Innova, Topex or Vorel are for you. For professional use it is recommended that you look at Sonel, Unit, or Fluke products. They produce the very best meters in the semi-professional and professional segment, although their average price is also higher. In addition, there are many high-quality domestic devices. Therefore, in general, it is very difficult to say which company is better.

Clamp multimeters

Rating and description of quality clamp multimeters.

Fluke 323

A digital multimeter from the best measuring instrument manufacturers in Europe - Fluke. The 323 Clamp True RMS is a versatile multimeter with a fast and efficient general-purpose measuring instrument, it is even included in the state register of measuring instruments. This lightweight product is ideal for both hobbyists and professional use.

If you are working in low light environments, you have nothing to worry about as the Fluke 323 True-RMS has built-in LED backlighting for low light performance. The light is bright and guarantees adequate illumination during operation.

• Budgetary with high product quality;
• Comes with a soft carrying case;
• There is a save button to remember all the data of the last analysis;
• Thanks to the clamping pliers, the device can be fixed to the surface, which frees both hands during the troubleshooting procedure;
• There is a built-in current meter, which makes it the best electronic strain gauge voltage meter.

• Limited documentation;
• Not always available in offline stores, but it can be ordered online.

Megeon 70068

When it comes to bundling many attractive features in one device, the domestic company Megeon simply has no competitors. Their meters are versatile and durable, and have been designed to be useful for professionals and hobbyists alike. They also do their best to keep their products affordable, no matter what your budget.

Pocket multifunctional clamp meter Megeon can be used to determine AC or DC voltage, current resistance, frequency, temperature, capacity, duty cycle. There are about 12 functions in total. The display is large enough and the numbers are legible so that anyone can easily read them even in low light.

• Inexpensive and functional devices;
• There is a function of saving the received readings;
• Built-in indication of the battery charge level;
• Tight rubber cover included;
• You can make small adjustments to the readings obtained;
• Auto power off after 10 minutes of inactivity to conserve battery.

• Some users in their reviews complain about frequent sound alerts that cannot be turned off;
• There is no automatic ranking function;
• The metal tips on the test leads are too short;
• There is not enough backlighting;
• The thermocouple sensor sometimes does not always work as expected.

High voltage clamp

CT-1000-V

The analog electric clamp meter Kt-1000 is designed for quick measurement of alternating current without breaking the electric current circuit. The device is a combined medium-sized transportable device.

What to look for:

• The device operates with an alternating current voltage from 1 to 10 kilovolts at a frequency of 50-60 Hz.
• This is an analog instrument, so all values ​​are displayed on a normal screen without backlight, which makes it difficult to use the instruments in low light conditions.
• The design of the pliers allows them to be mounted on a special dielectric extension rod so that measurements can be taken at a remote distance from the operator.
• Measurements can be activated by snapping the fixing mechanism on the wire with further pulling out the clamp from the measurement object (for this, you need to apply a little effort. In this case, the measurements are recorded on the screen and the operator can write off the readings after lowering the boom.
• The device has a detector for AC / DC voltage, capacitance, resistance, continuity, etc.
• The set includes a test report with ETL protocol.

• Measurements are easy to carry out remotely;
• Robust housing withstands even the most intense work situations;
• It is capable of measuring both DC and AC voltage.

• From time to time, discrepancies in voltage and capacitance readings appear;
• According to buyers, temperature readings are sometimes inaccurate.

Automotive pliers

INNOVA 3320

The Innova Professional Car Measuring Clamp is one of the best multifunctional measuring tools, combining versatility with good build quality.

Specifications:

• A device with an Auto-Ranging function that automatically adjusts the range when measuring.
• Has large color indicators showing the battery level. If the indicator is green, it means there is enough energy, if it is yellow, it means below the recommended one, and red indicates that the battery needs to be replaced.
• The set also includes durable rubber covers, designed not only to improve the appearance, but also to prevent wear or damage if the device slips out of your hands;
• Other accessories included with the device include: holders, test leads, stand.

• The device has an auto range function;
• Easy to control battery life;
• Convenient to use;
• Durable material covers protect your device for increased durability.

• The battery needs to be replaced regularly;
• The model has no specific specialization.

Mastech MS8268 is one of the top models of multimeters from a famous American brand. Its main advantage is that it allows measurements in Relative Measurement Mode (REL). It gives reasonably accurate results, has a high input impedance, and a robust design.

Specifications:

• The model has several blinking red LED pins with an audible alert that indicate the current and voltage values.
• It is equipped with a large backlit LCD display, which is useful when taking measurements in low light conditions. The backlight is evenly distributed over the display, which is very good for such an inexpensive model.
• The backlight is activated by pressing a button and automatically turns off after 5 seconds to save battery power.
• Sometimes customers need an auto-tuning meter, and sometimes a handheld device is more useful. So, with the MS8268 you can safely choose between both modes: manual and automatic range selection.
• The tool is powered by three AAA batteries, for which there is a separate compartment.

• The dial is durable enough and does not crack when dropped;
• If you have incorrectly configured the device, it will notify you with a special sound signal;
• There is no need to disassemble the device to replace the battery or fuse;
• Comes with a bright LED display for easy reading;
• High durability and long-term performance;
• Automatic saving of all information.

• Lack of input protection;
• Small range.

INNOVA 3340

Another device from Innova. Model 3340 is one of the best automotive multimeters available. The key to its quality is the combination of characteristics that give it an edge over competitors. For you to understand its capabilities, you need to note its ability to measure in the range of up to ten mV. This is one of the few multimeters in this price segment that are capable of this.

• First of all, it should be noted its compactness - the weight of the Innova 3340 is only 2 kg .;
• The device comes with a convenient stand and a wrist strap for hands-free use;
• When checking a car engine for problems, it is guaranteed that the ECU will not be damaged in the process. With INNOVA 3340 it will not only be comfortable to work, but it will also be easier for you to determine where the problem with the engine originated from;
• Innovative technologies such as automatic shutdown, reverse polarity protection and many others;
• Large LCD display and robust housing;
• Completely safe to use.

• There is no Russian-language manual. The kit contains only instructions in English, French and Spanish;
• There are problems with reaching a stable zero, since current measurement requires the use of an adapter without a forced clamping;
• Not everyone knows where to buy the device, because it is often found only in online stores.

It is worth choosing a current clamp taking into account the frequency of their use and the scope of application, this will allow you to purchase a functional device without overpaying for unnecessary functionality.