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Extech EX330 vs Fluke 117: A Complete Comparison Guide

When shopping for a reliable multimeter, two names often come up: Extech and Fluke.

The Extech EX330 is a compact budget-friendly multimeter that appeals to DIYers and hobbyists, while the Fluke 117 is a professional-grade tool trusted by electricians worldwide. Both are good in their own right, but they serve different users. Let’s compare them head-to-head.

πŸ“Š Side-by-Side Comparison Table

FeatureExtech EX330Fluke 117
True RMS❌ Noβœ… Yes
Auto-Rangingβœ… Yesβœ… Yes
Voltage RangeUp to 600VUp to 600V
Current Range10A10A
Temperatureβœ… Yes (thermocouple)❌ No
Non-Contact Voltageβœ… Yesβœ… Yes (VoltAlert)
LoZ Mode❌ Noβœ… Yes
DisplayBasic LCDBacklit LCD
Safety RatingCAT III 600VCAT III 600V
Build QualityLightweight plasticRugged, professional build
Best ForHobbyists, DIY usersProfessional electricians
πŸ’³ PricingπŸ’²Check PriceπŸ’²Check Price

πŸ” Overview of the Extech EX330

The Extech EX330 is a feature-packed, affordable multimeter designed with beginners and light-duty users in mind. Despite its low price, it includes functions that make it versatile for many household and hobbyist applications.

EX330 – Check Today’s Deal on Amazon

Key Features:

  • Measures AC/DC voltage, current, resistance, frequency, and duty cycle
  • True RMS: ❌ No (basic averaging meter)
  • Temperature measurement with Type K thermocouple
  • Built-in non-contact voltage detector
  • Compact, lightweight design
  • Auto-ranging and manual ranging options
  • CAT III 600V safety rating

Best For: Beginners, DIYers, and electronics hobbyists who need an inexpensive multimeter with a wide range of functions.

⚑ Overview of the Fluke 117

The Fluke 117 is one of the most popular multimeters in the professional market.

Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter, Non-Contact AC Voltage Detection, Measures Resistance/Continuity/Frequency/Capacitance/Min Max Average, Automatic AC/DC Voltage Selection, Low Impedance Mode

Fluke 117 – Check Today’s Deal on Amazon

Known for its durability, safety, and accuracy, it is widely used by electricians in residential, commercial, and light industrial settings.

Key Features:

  • True RMS for accurate readings on non-linear loads
  • AutoVolt automatic AC/DC voltage selection
  • VoltAlert non-contact voltage detection
  • LoZ (Low Impedance) mode to eliminate ghost voltages
  • Measures voltage, current (up to 10A), resistance, frequency, and capacitance
  • Backlit display for low-light conditions
  • Compact, ergonomic design
  • CAT III 600V safety rating

Best For: Professional electricians who need a compact, reliable, and highly accurate tool for daily use.

βœ… Pros and Cons of Each

Extech EX330 Pros:

  • Affordable price
  • Compact and lightweight
  • Includes temperature measurement
  • Non-contact voltage detection

Extech EX330 Cons:

  • Not True RMS (less accurate on complex signals)
  • Build quality is not as rugged as professional meters
  • Basic display with no backlight

🌑️ EX330 measures temperature

Fluke 117 Pros:

  • True RMS for accuracy
  • LoZ mode removes ghost voltages
  • Compact, ergonomic design
  • Backlit display for low-light conditions
  • Superior build quality and durability

Fluke 117 Cons:

  • More expensive than EX330
  • Does not measure temperature

πŸ† Verdict: Extech EX330 or Fluke 117?

The choice between the Extech EX330 and the Fluke 117 comes down to your use case.

πŸ‘‰ In short:

  • Extech EX330 = Budget-friendly and versatile for light use.
  • Fluke 117 = Professional-grade accuracy and reliability.
Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter, Non-Contact AC Voltage Detection, Measures Resistance/Continuity/Frequency/Capacitance/Min Max Average, Automatic AC/DC Voltage Selection, Low Impedance Mode