A digital multimeter seems like an important tool, and sometimes even essential. If you’re a professional in this modern world! And by professional, I mean an engineer, computer specialist, or field technician. It’s a go-to piece of equipment you need to keep at your disposal. In order to function to the best of your abilities!
So if it’s your go-to gear, what does that mean? That the tool, more often than not, paves the way for either success or failure. And the consequences depend on the quality and performance of the digital multimeter. This raises an important question. What is the best digital multimeter for your job needs and requirements? And that, in turn, encourages the debate between Fluke 115 vs. 117.
Fluke is to multimeters what Starbucks is to coffee. It’s the most acclaimed multimeter manufacturer on the current market. So there’s no denying that quality and performance surpass expectations. But which model works better for you? This you might not know. In that case, allow me to discuss the Fluke 115 vs. 117 comparisons clearly below.
It’s an invaluable device, the Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS Digital Multimeter. The tool is crafted to operate in low lit areas quite well. Its white backlight makes possible the reading of results. Even when the circumstances are not so perfect!
What the Fluke 115 multimeter does is measure capacitance, frequency, and continuity. Along with AC/DC (10A) current and voltage as high as 600V!
The product is fairly and competitively priced. This is great news for budget-friendly consumers. As for the design, it’s curvy and compact. So handling the multimeter is an easy and convenient task.
You don’t take too long to notice the rubber-equipped holster. This particular component protects you whenever you accidentally drop the tool. So that’s durability you’re dealing with here.
For such a reasonable price, the Fluke 115 feels well-made and substantially heavy-duty. It’s perfect for professionals. Such as technicians, mechanics, engineers, and the like. The little thing is very reliable and can last for many, many years.
It even has the capacity to meet the demands of an average hobbyist or homeowner. So it’s good for both professional use and home applications.
The only complaint I have is the lack of screen readability from a few angles. The device does feature screen illumination and an LED backlight. Even so, from certain angles, reading the screen is a bit disappointing.
2. Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter Review
Now here’s a multimeter that’s not so different from the Fluke 115. It’s the Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Digital Multimeter. But it’s the step-up version of the former. The most notable difference between the two is a form of technology. The brand’s exclusive VoltAlert technology, which is added only to the Fluke 117.
Now, what does this special feature do? It allows you to perform voltage detection, the non-contact kind. What does this mean? It implies only one thing, one advantage actually. That the tester activates automatically right when it’s close to any live wire. Even when this is hidden with plastic!
There’s access to AC/DC automatic voltage detection. Along with minimal input impedance, which prevents the majority of false positives. Plus, you can use the Fluke 117 hands-free. With the help of the magnetic hanger! That’s an individual accessory.
There’s another useful accessory which measures temperatures as well. In all, this particular model is more fitting when it comes to heavier work. To be more specific, it’s the most suitable for electricians.
The package includes extra features that work best in the poorest of circumstances. And as you can see, it’s labeled True RMS. So the device does more than just read the clean waves. It also reads the distorted ones plus ghost voltage. Such functionality is what singles out success from the possibility of failure.
Taking everything into consideration, there is something that might let you down. And that is the limited range of measurement. Overall, the Fluke 117 performs exceptionally well. But if your task includes checking diode frequently, you can be slightly disappointed. Or when measuring frequency above 50kHz. At such times, this tool falls short on delivering optimal performance.
Even so, the Fluke 117 is 115’s elder sibling in each and every way. But both devices are nearly one and the same. It’s just that the former is equipped with a few extras. That is intrinsically favorable for professionals. More specifically, for electricians!
Learn which Fluke digital multimeter is the best one for you
Fluke 115 vs. 117: Differences between the Two
| Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS Digital Multimeter | Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Digital Multimeter |
|---|---|---|
Resistance | 40 ohms | 40 ohms |
AC Voltage | 600V max. | 600V max. |
AC Current | 10A max. | 10A max. |
Backlight | Yes | Yes |
Capacitance | 10,000 μF | 10,000 μF |
Non-Contact Detection of Voltage | None | Yes |
Ghost Voltage Detection | None | Yes |
True RMS | Yes | Yes |
It’s only logical to believe that the differences between any two models exist. Even if both are manufactured by the same company! I mean why would a brand create two similar devices or machines? Unless their reputation is of a questionable character!
Fortunately, Fluke is a renowned manufacturer.
Fluke an introduction
So rest assured, here are the differences between the Fluke 115 and Fluke 117.
The 117 model is crafted especially for electricians. Who work in buildings, schools, and hospitals. The device featuresVoltAlert voltage detection. It’s the non-contact type of technology. In fact, the multimeter is also packed with technology that detects ghost voltage. To prevent false readings!
But the Fluke 115 doesn’t have any of these features. And that’s the first significant difference between the two digital multimeters.
Now here’s the second one. The Fluke 117 also offers automatic AC/DC volt selection. This is an advantage that the 115 model doesn’t provide.
Needless to say, both are great when it comes to giving accurate readings. The only common downside is that neither the 117 nor the 115 measures temperature. They also don’t present data logging.
Fluke 115 vs. 117: So what’s the Final Say?
Is non-contact detection of voltage important to you? If yes, pick the Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter.
Also, is measuring ghost voltage a part of your job? If so, then again pick the Fluke 117.
Otherwise, the Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter ranks as the most affordable all-around option.
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