7 Best HVAC Clamp Meter Reviews

A clamp meter is a necessary tool if you are a technician, an electrical maintenance technician, or a DIYer who enjoys troubleshooting and fixing things. The best clamp meter is the most suitable device to measure current in a circuit or wire without cutting the wire or disconnecting it from circuit power.

It will measure the power flow accurately by clamping the clamp meter jaws around a conductor, like a cable or wire, in an electrical system. You can see hundreds of brand clamp mitres, but finding the best one is so challenging. That’s why in this article, we introduce you to the best clamp meter review, where every pick is chosen by our experts and analyzing consumers’ feedback of every product. 

Our Favorite Clamp Meter

Last update on 2024-11-02 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API

Top 7 Best Clamp Meter Reviews

1. UEi DL369 Digital Clamp Meter

The UEI Test Instruments DL369 clamp-on meter is the overall best clamp meter with its mid-range price and high performance. In addition to its high resistance, the clamp-on type meter has a four megaohm maximum. 

Accuracy

We found the accuracy of this multimeter to be rock-solid in our tests. UEi DL369 digital clamp meter offers you impressive functionality at a modest price. 

Powerful Battery 

An inexpensive and standard battery makes a device more appealing. Power comes from two AAA batteries in the UEi DL369 camera. It is not backlit, though, which we were a bit disappointed with. It also has auto power-off features, which help to keep battery life.

It is sometimes difficult to see the screen when working in electrical boxes so that a built-in light would have helped. The only complaint we have about this meter is that it is a little bit heavy. The clamp-on meter we tested is the best we have tested.

Pros

• 4-MOhm resistance
• Incredibly accurate
• It runs off 2 AAA batteries
• Excellent dual display
• Great for industrial use
• 3 years limited warranty

Cons

• No backlight features

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2. Fluke 324 True RMS Clamp Meter

Introducing the Fluke clamp multimeter, which is our premium clamp meter selection. Its quality is so much better, despite its price. But, it can measure circuit continuity without touching or interrupting it and open up to 30 millimetres. One of the most striking features of this model was how well this function worked.

Display 

Fluke 324 has a backlit display, so you can easily see it even in the dark. It also helps you to work in any condition without hassles. Resistance cannot be measured with this unit, which is its only real failing. In this list, it is one of the units with the lowest maximum resistance at four kilohms.

Convenient

Its slim profile design helps to handle it, also easy to store and carry efficiently. The great thing is that its hassles-free functions help any beginner to check electrical troubleshooting easily.

We understand that if you only test high-resistance circuits, you would probably purchase a different meter. However, we could still use the functionality. It is one of the best meters we have a test, so it is ranking third.

Pros

• Safety ratings for CAT-III and CAT-IV
• Temperature and capacities measurements
• Display with backlight
• Slim and ergonomic design
• Real-time RMS sensing
• Sensor for wireless

Cons

• Expensive price range
• Max resistance 4 kOhm

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3. Etekcity Digital Clamp Meter

This very nice-looking clamp-meter from Etekcity which comes at a reasonable price. Even though it may not impact performance, it is worth noting. The meter’s maximum resistance of 20 megaohms is an impressive performance attribute.  

Sleep Mode

The most incredible and unique thing is, this multimeter comes with special automatic sleep mode features, which can automatically sleep if you are not responding in 15 minutes. It also helps you to extend the battery life.

Despite its many benefits, there is one big flaw with the device. You must note that it is not DC current clamp meter. Standard electric work is mainly done with clamp-on meters, so AC should be sufficient for most people. In addition, we are only really bothered by the lack of backlighting on the screen.

Pros

• Affordable price range
• Easy to read large display
• It comes with all essential features
• It has an automatic sleep mode
• Easy to carry
• 20-MOhm resistance

Cons

• AC only
• Not backlit

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4. Uni-T True RMS AC/DC Current Mini Clamp Meter

If you are looking for the best ac/dc clamp meter for your electrical project, then Uni-T is the perfect option for you. The Uni-T’s mini clamp meter has a small form factor that is hard to miss. First of all, you’ll notice its small size, but this device is much more than that. Unlike many other meters, this one provides RMS readings, generally reserved for equipment many times its price.

Versatile 

Moreover, because it has a resistance of 20 megaohms, this meter can be used to measure high-resistance current, making it an extremely versatile device. It is the best electric meter for any advanced-level electrician.

Budget-Friendly 

The meter falls between the most and least expensive, putting it in the middle of the pack. But it has included all the must-have features that are needed for any level electrician. that’s why Uni-T True RMS is the best clamp meter for electricians   

While the Uni-T mini clamp meter has many great qualities, it also has some noticeable shortcomings. It is challenging for this device to read DC signals. This device can do it, but you’ll have to start playing with it and keep your head still while measuring, so the current doesn’t get disturbed. It’s of poor quality, and the knob does not function properly.

Pros

• A 20-MOhm resistor
• true RMS response for AC
• Both ac dc amp clamp meter
• Great for an advanced level electrician
• Extremely compact size

Cons

• Lacks quality
• Problems reading DC

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5. Klein Tools Maintenance Kit Clamp Meter

Klein is a well-known electric tool manufacturer, and this meter model is the most popular Klein tool. There were several excellent features packed in, and on paper, it looked good. However, our testing revealed that Klein did not deliver on the promises made to us.

Backlit Display

The most incredible thing is that it comes with a backlit display that can help you smoothly work in any condition and see the measurements clearly.

Additional Features

Klein Tools clamp meter included the test leads, batteries ad other essential things. There was also a receptacle tester, which made determining which outlets are on which circuits easy. Up to 15 amps can draw without having to split the power cord it’s carried on. Not every feature was fantastic.

Despite the low price, this multimeter lacks true RMS capabilities. We’re also used to the two AAA batteries on other units. This would both be excusable if the CL110KIT were accurate and consistent.

Pros

• Testing receptacles
• Splitting lines
• AC auto-ranging 400 amp
• Easily detect the most common wiring problems
• It has a backlit display for easy reading
• It comes with test leads, batteries, and case

Cons

• Unreliable readings
• 3 AAA batteries required
• RMS is not true

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6. Voltcraft Current Clamp Meter

Despite being a pretty good clamp meter, the Voltcraft VC330 does not quite qualify as one of our best options. Although this is a disadvantage, the resistance of 10 megaohms is quite good and considerably higher than other clamp-style meters. Despite the low price, the meter offers true RMS capabilities.

Shock Proof

It comes with protective rubber layer features, which can help you to be safe from unwanted electricity shock. This rubber grip layer also helps to grip perfectly.

Compact Design

This clamp has several valuable features, but it is pretty tiny. The most miniature model we tested had a 17 mm opening. Should that have been the only issue, the meter would have been rated higher. However, this app records an excessive number of ghost readings.

Our measurement accuracy can be compromised by this phenomenon, and that’s something we can’t ignore. It only reads up to 2,000 counts, which is another complaint about the multimeter. However, you may want to switch to a more robust clamp that’s more reliable.

Pros

• Resistance of 10-MOhm
• Great for any measurement job
• Shockproof and perfect grip design
• Auto power off features
• Ultra-compact design
• Measuring RMS

Cons

• It’s too narrow – 17mm
• Overheats too easily
• No more than 2000 counts

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7. HOLDPEAK Digital Clamp Multimeter

Holdpeak is our last but not least pick on this article, and It has so many exceptional features that can help you work on something unique way. We think that it is pretty handy. In addition to the large 45mm clamp opening on this device, however, that was the only feature we enjoyed about it.

Extended Connectivity 

The most excellent feature of HOLDPECK is that, With the help of the application, it can easily connect via Bluetooth to your smartphone. and the measurement readings on two separate screens.

Overload Protection

Many clamp multimeters did not have overload protection. That’s why it chances to face any unwanted things. HOLDPEAK included these features maintaining all standards. If the voltage range is going to over, this meter display will show these OL measurements.

There would be some drawbacks to this device if everything were ideal. You won’t be testing anything with even moderate resistance, for instance, since the 1kOhms max resistance is pretty low. 

The problem is worse. Taking a measurement, this unit shows the result very slowly. The wait time as long as five seconds. However, readings fluctuate the most. There were times when it was erratic, jumping around erratically. Overall it is the best clamp multimeter.

Pros

• Overload protection
• It has LCD backlit
• Large spacing jaw
• It comes with a wide range of features
• App for smartphones with Bluetooth
• Opening measures 45mm

Cons

• Max resistance 1kOhms
• Readings that fluctuate
• Shows final value slowly

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Things to Know Before Buying the Best Clamp Meters

The accuracy

Consistent and accurate measurements are essential from a clamp meter. Identical readings are obtained for all currencies with a dependable clamp meter. A trusted brand can eliminate accuracy concerns.

Size of the clamp

There is considerable variance among models regarding clamping openings, which range from 17 mm to 45 mm. The clamp opens for hands-free operation so that you can hang the meter. However, it won’t stop there. Clamp meters can test a wire by wrapping the clamp around it while a voltage detector is built into the clamp. Checking a circuit is possible without touching it.

Resistance at maximum

Current can flow more efficiently or more slowly, according to the Ohms measurement. As low as four kOhms found on some of these meters. The resistance of other devices can even reach up to 20 megohms. You will need this capability if you measure highly resistive systems. Although, you would be OK with a lower maximum resistance if you count only fundamental house currents.

Screen with backlight

In darker areas where visibility is poor, there is a lot of electric work going on. You can only view your measurements in such a situation if you have a backlit screen. However, this feature cannot be found on every multimeter. We suggest you look for a backlit screen if you’re not using a well-lit area like your laboratory or workshop.

Safety

You should first and foremost consider the level of safety that a clamp meter offers. By looking at the build quality and material used for the device, it is easy to understand. In general, the safer a device is, the higher the total voltage, current, and resistance rating is. In addition to having regulatory certifications, secure devices also come with assurances that they are safe.

Warranties

A warranty clause or window does not come with every clamp meter, but brands and high-quality clamp meters come with a full one-year manufacturer’s warranty from the date of purchase. Some brands even provide a 3-year warranty.

FAQ

What is a clamp meter good for?

A clamp meter eliminates the need to cut into the wire, insert a meter’s lead in the circuit, and measure current directly through the line. In a clamp meter, the jaws of the instrument do not have to touch a conductor.

Is a clamp meter better than a multimeter?

Multimeters typically measure voltage, resistance, continuity, and sometimes low current. A clamp meter is designed to measure current, whereas a multimeter measures voltage, resistance, and continuity. Multimeters are better at measuring accuracy and resolution, while clamp meters measure high winds.

Are cheap clamp meters accurate?

The precision of current measurements is around 5%, and that of voltage is about 3%. Because it is inexpensive, this meter is best suited to troubleshooting rather than configuration. While you will tell if a component is running correctly, minute details will be hard to discern.

Are Klein Clamp Meters any good?

There aren’t too many digital multimeters out there like Klein’s (which are among the best and are a fraction of some of the big brands). As a rule, when you choose a Klein multimeter, you can expect a reliable product with high-quality features and an affordable price.

What is a True RMS clamp meter?

The accurate RMS reading of a multimeter takes into account the potential heat from an applied voltage. To determine the power dissipated in a resistor, RMS measurements are used instead of average responding sizes. The voltage component of a signal is usually measured only by a multimeter using a dc blocking capacitor.

Conclusion

Electrical connections can determine with these phenomenal devices without requiring invasive procedures. You need to understand electrical metrics to make good use of these instruments.

Professional electricians recommended the most user-friendly equipment on our list. If you choose the best clamp meter, make sure you select a highly accurate and reliable one before opting for the most technical and complicated model. Also, make sure it’s easy to carry and durable. That will prepare you for lifetimes of electrical testing!