What's the best practical multimeter?

Hey everyone, I need your help figuring out which multimeter model is the most practical for everyday use. Here are the images of the two options I'm considering: https://www.talkimg.com/images/2025/10/21/UMqiCd.png https://www.talkimg.com/images/2025/10/21/UMq8v5.png

Choose the Fluke one, it has real input protection and good HRC-fused mA with 10A ranges. The blue "smart" meter is auto-only, two-jack, it likely doesn't have a proper current range,

I probably have one of the cheapest multimeters at $5, and it's enough for me. Where are you planning to use it and what measurements will you take? My model is the XL830L, which costs $4-5 on AliExpress.

used to test my hash board

To check the control voltages on the board and the resistance in a section of the circuit, a regular $5 multimeter is all you need. That's why I have this multimeter. Other testers are used to test the chips on the board.

This one can also be used to test voltage and resistance! Besides, after listening to your analysis, I bought it. It’s practical. I only have this one multimeter, and it’s pretty easy to use.

You did the right thing. If this device isn't enough for you, buy a more expensive one. Technicians typically measure test voltages and resistance in a section of the circuit. There are no repair instructions for most devices, so repairs are generally based on the experience of their colleagues.

And I've found it quite helpful; besides testing my hash board, I sometimes use it to teach my kids to identify batteries....

It would be a shame to spend $30-50 on a multimeter that will measure battery voltage

yeah go cheap unless it is for high power and high amp measurements. spending under 10 and getting something good enough  makes sense. now if you are running a lot of gear and pulling big power a higher end meter makes sense.

[/quote] It would be a shame to spend $30-50 on a multimeter that will measure battery voltage [/quote] No, I meant it has many uses and is very practical.  https://www.talkimg.com/images/2025/11/10/U6O66G.png

I'm usually using my Fluke 45 which is so simple to use

In 21 years as an equipment repair engineer, I've never needed a multimeter for more than $5. And I'm not alone; my colleagues use similar multimeters. Sometimes you need to buy professional equipment to get certified, but that's a nuance. My advice to all beginner technicians is to start with a simple $5 multimeter. It won't be a mistake; if you need more expensive equipment, you can buy it later, and you'll have the experience to buy the equipment you need.

But isn't an automatic multimeter more convenient than a manual multimeter? Is your multimeter manual or automatic? I'd like to know. Thanks！ https://z-m.cc/16/3138

Here's my XL830L model. If the link doesn't open, you can find it on Google. It costs $8-12 in Russia, but you can order it in China for $5. https://www.vseinstrumenti.ru/product/multimetr-kral-xl830l-tsifrovoj-tester-s-podsvetkoj-displeya-5658-19332411/ I have no trouble turning the switch to the right position. But if you have trouble doing this, you might want to consider a more expensive model

It's more convenient and simpler to have it automated during maintenance.

This is the best because it is easier to understand and explain to new engineering student, It  configuration give us an option to use the sound are screen

I agree with you that for servicing certain equipment you need a measuring device with memory, but for repairing laptops, computers, TVs, video cards, and even a novice repair engineer, a $5 multimeter is enough I have a similar model without sound, which I bought for $2.50. I use it too, but the sound is more convenient. I don't want to advise saving 2.5 dollars