Best Clamp Meter

When working with electricity, safety comes first. And for measuring current, a perfect device would be the one that gives you accurate readings without any contact with the conductor.

When measuring current with a multimeter, you need to connect the multimeter in series and break the circuit. On the other hand, a clamp meter allows you to measure the current efficiency accurately without having to break the circuit and remove the insulator from the conductor. This incredible feature of the clamp meters makes them the first choice of professionals.

Using a clamp meter, you can efficiently check the current in a circuit without having any contact with the wire, which means it is safer than any other device plus you do not need to interrupt the circuit either. It uses the principle of transformers and measures the magnetic flux in the circuit, and displays the current on the screen.

If you are looking for a good quality clamp meter that is very accurate and is trusted by the professionals in the field, then you have come to the right place. We have created a list of the top 8 best clam meters from great brands along with their features and specifications so you can choose an ideal device for yourself. In the end, we will also give you a buying guide, so you know what to look for while buying a clamp meter. So let’s begin.

Top 8 Best Clamp Meters (By Reputable Brands) in 2023

1. UEi DL369 Digital Clamp Meter

If you want a device for general troubleshooting and electrical maintenance purposes, the UEi DL369 digital clamp meter is for you. It comes with a dual display screen with a count of 4000. The auto-ranging function of this clamp meter allows you to conveniently get the readings effortlessly. It can measure the frequency and capacitance up to 4000µF. The safety rating with 600 volts is CAT III, and for a voltage of 1000 volts, it is CAT II which means that it is a pretty safe device.

Specifications:

• Battery Type: 2AAA Alkaline non-rechargeable batteries
• Current Range: up to 400 amps
• Voltage Range: up to 600 volts
• Warranty: 3-year limited warranty

Pros:

• Affordable price
• Wide testing range
• Auto power off feature to save battery
• Test lead holder on the clamp

Cons:

• Lacks the backlit feature

2. B&K Precision 316 Mini Clamp Meter

The B&K precision 316 Mini clamp meter is designed to measure small amounts of currents with great precision. It comes with a jaw opening of 12.5 mm, which can measure the exact amount of current flowing through the circuit without interrupting the wires. Its peak hold measurement allows you to record the maximum current surge. The safety rating of this clamp meter is also CAT II and CAT III for installation to 600v and 300v, respectively.

Specifications:

• Battery Type: 2AA Alkaline non-rechargeable batteries
• Voltage Range: up to 600 volts
• Current Range: up to 100 amps
• Warranty: Unavailable

Pros:

• Ideally measures the exact current, voltage, and resistance
• Auto-ranging feature selects the Range automatically
• Safe to use
• Available in both handheld and bench top models 

Cons:

• Lacks the backlit feature

3. Fieldpiece SC440 True RMS Clamp Meter

If you are looking for both HCVR and electrical testing in one device, the Fieldpiece SC440 True RMS clamp meter is the one you need. Along with all the electrical measurements, it also allows you to measure the temperature as well. It comes with TRMS sensing technology and a sturdy, long-lasting body. You get both auto and manual ranging options in this meter. You can use this meter easily with one hand.

Specifications:

• Battery Type: 9 volts Alkaline batteries
• Current Range: up to 440 Amps
• Voltage Range: up to 600 volts
• Warranty: Available

Pros:

• Ideal for HACVR reading as well
• Made with high impact durable plastic
• High voltage indicator LED and beeper for safety warning
• Detachable leads with alligator clips

Cons:

• Not compatible with smartphone

4. Extech MA445 True RMS Clamp Meter

The Extech MA445 True RMS clamp meter comes with a water drop-shaped clamp. The jaw size of the clamp meter is 30cm, which means it can also fit massive conductors. It can measure a lot of electrical parameters along with the temperature. This device can also measure DC. Due to that, it is an ideal device for automotive applications. You get a large backlit LCD display and a built-in flashlight on the meter.

Specifications:

• Battery Type: 3AAA Alkaline non-rechargeable batteries
• Current Range: up to 400 amps
• Voltage Range: up to 600 volts
• Warranty: Available

Pros:

• Auto power off and low battery indicator
• Ergonomic design for comfortable grip
• Accurate readings
• Safe to use

Cons:

• Not compatible with other devices

5. Klein Tools CL800 Digital Clamp Meter

If you have a clumsy workstation and your devices fall and break, you need this one. The Klein Tools CL800 digital clamp meter comes with double insulation and is tested for a 6.6 feet drop. The automatic TRMS ensures the accuracy of the device. The built-in thermocouple probe allows you to measure the temperature as well. The safety ratings of this device are CAT IV and CAT III for 600 volts and 1000 volts, respectively.

Specifications:

• Battery Type: 2AAA Alkaline non-rechargeable batteries
• Current Range: up to 600 amps
• Voltage Range: up to 1000 volts
• Warranty: Available

Pros:

• Comes with a low impedance mode
• Comes with a low battery indicator
• Wide Range of operating temperature
• Auto-TRMS ranging for accurate measurements

Cons:

• Not compatible with other devices

6. Fluke 323 Clamp Meter

The Fluke 323 Clamp meter is a high-accuracy device that can measure linear and non-linear loads regardless of the waveform. Its True RMS technology can ideally measure current, voltage, and resistance. The design of this meter is very slim and compact, which makes it an ideal handheld device. The safety ratings of this meter are CAT IV and CAT III for 300V and 600V, respectively.

Specifications:

• Battery Type: 2AA Alkaline non-rechargeable batteries
• Current Range: up to 400 amps
• Voltage Range: up to 600 volts
• Warranty: 2-year warranty

Pros:

• Ideal for both commercial and residential applications
• Continuity detection in resistance measurement
• Easy hold and grip
• Safe to use 

Cons:

• Lacks the backlit feature

7. Fluke 771 Milliamp Process Clamp Meter

The Fluke 771 milliamp process clamp meter is also a sensitive device that can ideally detect very minor currents very accurately. The accuracy of this device is +/- 0.2 %. The Range for current measurement of this meter is 4-20 mA, which is ideal for measuring current in small sensitive circuits without interrupting them. You also get a measurement spotlight on the device to see wires in dark spots.

Specifications:

• Battery Type: 2AA Alkaline non-rechargeable batteries
• Current Range: 4-20 milliamps
• Voltage Range: Unavailable
• Warranty: 1-year warranty

Pros:

• Comes with a hold function
• Backlit feature for easy display
• Automatic battery saving
• One-year warranty from the manufacturer

Cons:

• A bit pricey

8. UEi DL429B Digital HVAC Clamp Meter

Lastly, the DL429B digital HVAC clamp meter can measure electrical and thermal parameters. It can be used to check the circuit continuity and specific resistance in a circuit. This device also comes with a flame safeguard. It comes with a dual display, a backlight, and a working light that is very convenient for the users. Furthermore, on this device, you get a low battery indicator and auto power off feature.

Specifications:

• Battery Type: 6AAA Alkaline non-rechargeable batteries
• Current Range: Up to 600 amps
• Voltage Range: up to 1000 volts
• Warranty: Unavailable

Pros:

• Includes 6 AAA batteries
• Allows quit check of broken circuits
• Measures temperature
• Auto and manual ranging options

Cons:

• Not compatible with smartphone

Things to Consider Buying A Clamp Meter

Here are some of the essential features that you need to consider before choosing a clamp meter for yourself:

1. Size of Clamp

The first thing you need to consider before buying a clamp meter is the size of the clamp. The size can generally vary from 17mm to 45mm, and you will see many options. If you want to use the clamp meters to measure current in bigger conductors, go for the clamp meter that has a bigger clamp.

The clamp meters with small clamps are very sensitive and can measure current in very thin wires. As they are designed for small conductors, they can give you very precise readings even in milliamperes. So if you want to use it for small conductors, you can get the ones with smaller clamps.

2. Shape of clamp

The ideal shape of the clamp would be like a water drop. This is because it can easily get to the places where blunt clamps can not get. A water drop shape with a narrow ending would do the job without you having to grab the wires with your hands and then clamp them. It will surely make the task much easier and safer.

3. Safety Rating

One of the main reasons why professionals select a clamp meter is the safety that it offers. If you have a clamp meter, you do not have to touch the conductor or break the circuit. While buying a good clamp meter, you need to check the safety rating of the meter. The better the safety ratings are, the safer the meter is. While buying a clamp meter, ensuring good safety ratings can save you from possible hazards.

4. Convenience

A clamp meter is a small and convenient handheld device. You can use it with one hand without any kind of inconvenience. You need to get the one that is lightweight and has an ergonomic design. This will prevent it from staining your hands. Also, check the dimensions and weight, so you can have a better idea of what you are buying.

5. Maximum Ampere Rating

Clamp meters come with different ranges of ampere ratings. What you should choose entirely depends on what you are using it for. If you need it for commercial use and have to work with wires with a greater amount of current flowing through them, consider the one with a high maximum ampere rating, e.g., 400 amps to 600 amps. Alternatively, if you want a domestic meter, the one with a lesser rating would also be fine.

6. Auto Ranging

It is also a great advantage of a clamp meter. A clamp meter with auto-ranging makes your task easier by automatically selecting the Range in which the value falls. Whether it is current, voltage or resistance, you just have to. You do not have to manually choose a preset range of values. You just have to clamp the conductor, and it will show the reading on the display screen.

Conclusion

A good clamp meter offers both security and convenience, whereas if you don’t make the right choice, it can be risky and vain. That’s why it is crucial for you to carefully choose the right device. We have provided you with a detailed buying guide and product reviews so you can choose the one that is perfect for you.

If you are still unsure about which one you should get, then we recommend the UEi DL369 Digital Clamp Meter as the best overall device as it comes with all the essential features and is ideal for domestic and commercial usage. If you are looking for a mini clamp meter with high sensitivity, we would recommend the B&K Precision 316 Mini Clamp Meter.

Furthermore, if you are looking for a device that can also be used for HVAC and offers you a lot of features for commercial and domestic use, then you should get the Fieldpiece SC440 True RMS Clamp Meter, as it is designed to be used for measuring both electrical and thermal parameters.

So, get your hands on a clamp meter because safety shouldn’t be compromised.