Introduction
The best multimeter under 50. The best multimeter under 100. Klein Tools MM400 Manual-Ranging 600V Digital Multimeter is a great little meter and number one on our list for the best multimeter under 50. Klein Tools MM400 is an auto-ranging multimeter that measures AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current, and resistance. It can also measure temperature, capacitance, frequency, duty-cycle, and test diodes and continuity. It is not a high end Digital Multimeter. This low price point multimeter is a nice tool for the homeowner. The basic testing feature that it performs is testing batteries, testing electrical circuits and testing electrical switches. Klein Tools is a manufacturer of quality products. The MM400 can measure up to 600 volts AC and DC, up to 10 amperes of current, and up to 40 Ohms of resistance. This meter can also measure temperature, capacitance, diodes, frequency, continuity and duty cycle. This Multi Meter does not disappoint. It is job tough. You may call it a multimeter or a VOM meter, it is a measuring instrument for electronics.
Features
Display
You can read symbols and numbers easy because of sufficient screen size. The MM400 has a backlight.
Auto ranging
This feature sets the range automatically. This is a valuable function for those who are not professional electricians or have experience with multimeters.
Low battery audible
The unit will make an audible signal warning of a low battery. A symbol displays meaning it is time to change the battery.
Measuring temperature
Measuring temperature is easy with The Klein MM400. A feature not found in lower priced meters. Check the temperature by connecting the multimeter probe and placing the thermocouple against the test area. The meter measures capacitance, voltage, and other electrical outputs.
Data hold
If you cannot write down the tested values, press the “hold” button and the multimeter will store the last reading. The reading will remain until you overwrite or press the hold button again.
Auto shut off
The auto shut off feature prolongs the battery life. After 15 minutes of inactivity, the multimeter shuts off.
Comparison Table
|
KLEIN DIGITAL MULTIMETERS |
||||
|
FEATURES |
MM300 |
MM400 |
MM600 |
MM700 |
|
Drop Protection |
3.3 ft. (1 m) |
3.3 ft. (1 m) |
6.6 ft. (2 m) |
6.6 ft. (2 m) |
|
Ingress Protection |
– |
– |
IP42 |
IP42 |
|
Safety |
CAT III |
CAT III |
CAT IV |
CAT IV |
|
600V |
600V |
600V |
600V |
|
|
AC Voltage (Volts) |
600V |
600V |
1000V |
1000V |
|
DC Voltage (Volts) |
600V |
600V |
1000V |
1000V |
|
AC Current (Amps) |
– |
10A |
10A |
10A |
|
DC Current (Amps) |
10A |
10A |
10A |
10A |
|
Ohms (Resistance) |
2MΩ |
40MΩ |
40MΩ |
40MΩ |
|
DC Millivolts |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
AC Milliamps |
– |
X |
X |
X |
|
DC Milliamps |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
AC Microamps |
– |
X |
X |
X |
|
DC Microamps |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
True RMS |
– |
– |
– |
X |
|
Audible Continuity |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
Backlight |
– |
X |
X |
X |
|
Temperature |
– |
0° – 1000°F (-18° – 538°C) |
0° – 1000°F (-18° – 538°C) |
0° – 1500°F (-18° – 816°C) |
|
Low Impedance |
– |
– |
– |
|
|
Auto Ranging |
– |
X |
X |
X |
|
Range Hold |
– |
X |
X |
X |
|
Data Hold |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
Diode Test |
X |
X |
X |
X |
|
Capacitance Test |
– |
200 μF |
1000 μF |
4000 μF |
|
Frequency / Duty Cycle |
– |
1Hz – 50 KHz |
1Hz – 500 KHz |
1Hz – 500 KHz |
|
Max / Min |
– |
X |
X |
X |
|
Lead Warning |
– |
– |
X |
X |
|
Bar Graph |
– |
– |
– |
– |
|
Magnetic Mount |
Available As |
Available As |
Available As |
Available As |
|
Accessory |
Accessory |
Accessory |
Accessory |
|
|
Auto-Power Off |
– |
X |
X |
X |
|
Battery Test |
X |
X |
– |
– |
|
LCD Display Count |
2000 |
4000 |
4000 |
4000 |
Safety
Read, understand and follow all instructions, cautions and warnings attached to and /or packed with all test and measurement devices before each use.
Before each use verify meter operation by measuring a known voltage or current.
Do not use the meter during electrical storms or in wet weather, and do not use the meter or test leads if they appear to be damaged.
Pros
1. Auto ranging
2. Compact
3. Soft durable housing to survive accidental dropping
4. Accurate readings
5. Backlight
6. K-type thermocouple and adapter
7. Good Leads
Cons
1. The screen may lose its contrast
2. Not a device for checking sensitive electronics
3. No RMS Technology
Conclusion for Best Multimeter Under 50
This multimeter is a good investment, to say the least. This is the best affordable multimeter, the best multimeter for electronics hobbyist, and the best multimeter for DIY. The MM400 remains affordable and is liked by DIY users. The low price point and the advanced features of this multimeter makes it the best digital multimeter under 50 as well as the best multimeter under 100.