Best Oscilloscopes for 2024

We analyzed top picks from leading reviewers to find the best for every need
Published: March 6th, 2024
Last Updated: August 6th, 2024

🔬Oscilloscopes are essential gadgets for engineers, teachers, and DIY electronics enthusiasts. They let you visualize electronic signals, making it a lot easier to fix circuits, create new components, and carry out research.

We've dug through a ton of expert reviews to bring you the best oscilloscopes for various needs and budgets in 2024. So, whether you're a professional looking for high precision or a hobbyist wanting great value, there's something here for you.

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Overall Best: OWON XDS2102A

OWON XDS2102A oscilloscope 12bits high resolution 100MHz bandwidth, 1GS/s sample rate 55,000 wfms/s refresh rate standard with with VGA standard SPI/I2C/RS232/CAN serial bus decoding

Our top pick for 2024 is the OWON XDS2102A, an oscilloscope that combines superior performance with user-friendly features.

Offering a 1 GSa/s sample rate and 12-bit resolution at 500 MSa/s, this oscilloscope is perfect for both professionals and serious hobbyists. It features a large 8-inch high-resolution LCD screen, allowing for detailed signal visualization.

Additionally, it supports multiple triggers and bus decoding functions, enhancing its versatility. The VGHA output allows you to display signals on a larger screen, making it ideal for detailed analysis and presentations.

With its robust feature set, the OWON XDS2102A stands out as a reliable and highly capable tool for any electronic lab.

Lowest at Amazon
$479.00 at Amazon
Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$356.70 at AliExpress.com

More Answers

Still curious about the OWON XDS2102A Oscilloscope? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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What is the bandwidth of the OWON XDS2102A oscilloscope?
The OWON XDS2102A oscilloscope has a bandwidth of 100MHz, which is pretty handy for different electronics testing and debugging stuff. The manufacturer mentions, and our research backs it up, that it comes with a 12-bit high resolution and a sampling rate of 1GS/s. So, you'll likely find it captures waveforms quite precisely and in detail. It doesn't have Bluetooth, but it makes up for that with other connectivity options. You've got USB host, USB device, LAN, AUX, and even a USB port for [PictBridge](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dpictbridge%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20) — all of which should make moving data around pretty straightforward. Plus, there's a VGA port if you need to connect it to a monitor for demos or teaching. If you're working with serial bus protocols like [SPI](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dspi%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [I2C](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Di2c%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), [RS232](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Drs232%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), or [CAN](https://www.shopsavvy.com/redirect?url=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.amazon.com%2Fs%3Fk%3Dcan%26tag%3Dssw.ans.tx-1-20), this oscilloscope will be especially helpful. These are key for embedded systems work or automotive diagnostics. Some folks have commented that the user interface could be a bit more user-friendly, but overall, the OWON XDS2102A is well-liked for its reliability and solid tech features. It's a versatile tool that many find useful for handling a range of testing jobs.
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How user-friendly is the OWON XDS2102A oscilloscope?
The OWON XDS2102A oscilloscope seems to offer a lot for both pros and hobbyists, especially if you're working with digital communications. A notable feature is its built-in serial bus decoding for protocols like SPI, I2C, RS232, and CAN. This is super handy if you need to decode and analyze data traffic on these serial buses, as the manufacturer describes it, making it great for debugging embedded systems. Our research indicates that this oscilloscope is particularly useful if you're involved in fields like embedded systems or automotive diagnostics, where these serial buses come up a lot. It makes capturing and interpreting digital signals easier, which is key for testing and debugging electronics. Besides the serial bus decoding, many who've used it appreciate its reliability with complex measurements. Its 12-bit signal analysis is pretty solid for getting detailed waveform insights, which is a huge plus when you need precise signal analysis. However, a few folks have mentioned that the interface might not be the most intuitive, so there could be a bit of a learning curve if you're new to it. Still, overall, the oscilloscope gets positive marks for its comprehensive capabilities and reliability across a broad range of electronic diagnostic tasks. In the end, while you might need some time to get used to the interface, the OWON XDS2102A is a robust and dependable option for anyone needing a good toolkit for detailed signal and protocol analysis in electronics testing and debugging, especially with serial communications.
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What are the key features of the OWON XDS2102A oscilloscope?
The OWON XDS2102A oscilloscope has a bunch of features that are great for both pros and electronics fans. Here's a look at what makes this model stand out and some insights we've gathered. First off, it's got a 100 MHz bandwidth and a 1 GS/s sample rate, which are pretty important for getting detailed waveforms and handling tricky signals. The 12-bit high-resolution ADC, as noted in the manufacturer's description, helps keep signal fidelity in check, meaning it can capture intricate details and quick changes in signals accurately. Plus, with a waveform refresh rate of 55,000 wfms/s, it's good at keeping up with fast-changing signals, making it versatile for different tasks. On the practical side, there's a VGA port for video expansion. So, if you need a bigger display, say for teaching or presenting, it's handy. It also has multiple connectivity options like USB host, USB device, LAN, and AUX, which the manufacturer highlights. This flexibility comes in handy in lots of situations. The oscilloscope even supports serial bus decoding for protocols like SPI, I2C, RS232, and CAN, which is especially useful for troubleshooting digital communications, something our research points out as a big plus. However, there are a couple of things to keep in mind. Some folks, according to our research, think the user interface isn't the most intuitive, which means there might be a learning curve involved. Also, the manual provided might not have all the details a new user would hope for, which could be a bit of a hurdle. Overall, the OWON XDS2102A oscilloscope is a solid pick with its high resolution and bandwidth along with plenty of connectivity options. It's great for in-depth analysis and educational settings, though figuring out the interface might take a little time. People seem to appreciate its performance, but some better user guidance could make using it even better.

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Runner-up: Keysight DSOX1102A

The Keysight DSOX1102A is our runner-up, offering professional-grade features at a more accessible price point.

It boasts a 2 GSa/s sample rate and 1 Mpts of memory depth, ensuring highly detailed signal capture. Advanced features, such as MegaZoom technology, allow for rapid signal processing, making it ideal for complex measurements.

Additionally, the oscilloscope comes with 200 MHz probes, further extending its capabilities. This makes the Keysight DSOX1102A an excellent choice for those who need high performance without a premium price tag.

Available at Amazon
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Budget Pick: Hantek DSO5072P

Hantek DSO5072P

For those on a budget, the Hantek DSO5072P offers exceptional value.

Priced under $300, it provides a 1 GSa/s sample rate and a 70 MHz bandwidth, which are impressive for its category. The 7-inch color TFT display offers clear signal visualization, and USB connectivity adds convenience for data transfer.

However, its limited memory depth may pose challenges when capturing infrequent transient events. Despite this, the Hantek DSO5072P remains a fantastic option for home electronics hobbyists seeking a reliable and affordable oscilloscope.

Lowest at any Popular Retailer
$345.00 at Amazon

More Answers

Still curious about the Hantek DSO5072P? Here are some answers you might find interesting:

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How accurate is the Hantek DSO5072P oscilloscope?
The Hantek DSO5072P oscilloscope seems like a solid option, especially considering what you get for the price. From what we've gathered, it offers a 1GSa/s real-time sampling rate, which is decent, and the 7-inch color display makes it pretty user-friendly. It can handle bandwidths of 200MHz, 100MHz, and 70MHz, so it's versatile enough for a bunch of different projects—whether you're in a learning environment or working on professional tasks. One thing I found interesting is that it handles automatic measurements well, which is useful if you're diving into detailed signal analysis. It supports four math functions and FFT standards, so it can tackle some complex stuff. Plus, there's a low-pass filter to cut down on noise, which helps with getting clear waveforms. However, heads up, the user interface might feel a bit clunky at first. It's not the most intuitive, so there could be a learning curve while you get the hang of it. On the plus side, the big display and the ability to export data via USB make it easier to work with your findings. The accuracy is within a 3-4% range, according to the manufacturer's product description. That's not too shabby for its price point, even if it's not top-of-the-line precision. This reliability makes it a dependable choice without costing a fortune. Keep in mind, since this is a tabletop oscilloscope, it's not the most mobile. You'll want to ensure you have a proper spot for it in your setup. But overall, the Hantek DSO5072P offers a good mix of cost and features, making it a reliable pick for those who don't want to splurge on pricier models.

Best for Hobbyists: Rigol DS1054Z

The Rigol DS1054Z is tailor-made for hobbyists and educators.

Featuring a 4-channel configuration and 50 MHz bandwidth, it offers ample versatility for a variety of applications. Advanced features like FFT analysis and an extensive software bundle enhance its utility.

The oscilloscope’s 12 Mpts of upgradable memory depth allow for extensive data capture, and the multiple input/output options add to its user-friendly design.

These attributes make the Rigol DS1054Z an outstanding choice for those looking to deepen their electronics knowledge.

Available at Amazon
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Best for Advanced Users: Siglent SDS1104X-E

Designed for advanced users, the Siglent SDS1104X-E delivers high performance and versatility.

With a 100 MHz bandwidth across 4 channels and a real-time sampling rate of 1 GSa/s, it can handle complex troubleshooting and signal analysis with ease.

The built-in web server allows for remote control and monitoring, while the 14 Mpts memory depth ensures comprehensive data capture.

Advanced trigger functions further elevate its capabilities, making the Siglent SDS1104X-E a top pick for professionals requiring detailed and accurate signal analysis.

Available at Amazon
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Best Portable Option: Hantek 20 MHz USB Oscilloscope

For those who prioritize portability, the Hantek 20 MHz USB Oscilloscope is an excellent choice.

Priced at just $67.67, this compact and lightweight oscilloscope is perfect for beginners. Despite its small size, it offers two channels and a sample rate of 48 MS/s, providing a solid entry point into the world of oscilloscopes.

Its USB connectivity ensures easy data transfer, while its portability makes it convenient for on-the-go diagnostics.

The Hantek USB Oscilloscope is ideal for those looking to get started with oscilloscopes without a significant investment.

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