TLDR Review: Fluke 117 Multimeter
Pros
- •Consistently delivers reliable and highly accurate measurements, thanks to True RMS technology that handles distorted or modified sine waves with ease.
- •Sturdy, durable "brick" build with a rubber holster offers ided protection and blast shield safety design, perfect for tough jobsite environments.
- •CATIII rated for up to 600V, making it suitable for most panel boards, feeders, outlets, and hardwired equipment.
- •Convenient features such as a magnetic strap attachment and an ofenter mode dial that operates well even with gloves on enhance usability.
- •Low impedance voltage mode effectively eliminates ghost voltages for realistic voltage readings in parallel wiring.
- •Builn Volt Alert non-contact voltage detector with adjustable sensitivity makes tracing live wires behind walls effortless and safe.
- •Responsive 6000 count display with fast updates and a helpful bar graph for quick visual interpretation.
- •Overcurrent protection via a higuality ceramic fuse and internal suppression devices increases safety and longevity of the meter.
- •Wide resistance and capacitance measurement ranges suitable for electricians' general use.
- •Clear and comprehensive multilingual manual, making it easier to understand all functions and specs.
Cons
- •Test leads included are less flexible and lower quality compared to the high standard of the meter itself; upgrading leads is often recommended.
- •No autold (touch hold) feature forces manual freezing of readings, which can be cumbersome when both hands are occupied with probes.
- •Backlight is functional but not very bright compared to highend Fluke models, affecting readability in very dim environments.
- •Does not measure low current ranges in milliamps (mA) or microamps (µA), limiting its use for delicate electronics diagnostics.
- •No carrying case or accessory kit included, so alligator clips and other extras must be purchased separately, adding to overall cost.
- •The advanced features and price point may be overkill for casual DIY users who don’t need professionarade accuracy and durability.
Bottom Line
The Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter is a top-tier professional tool that offers exceptional reliability, safety features, and precision, making it ideal for electricians who require a rugged, trustworthy multimeter on demanding job sites. If you need accurate measurements, non-contact voltage detection, and durability in one package, this meter delivers — but be prepared to invest a bit more in upgraded leads and accessories. For buyers primarily focused on casual or electronics hobbyist use, the absence of low current measurement and higher price might warrant considering alternatives better suited for light duty.
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