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Fluke 17B+ or 87V? How to Choose Without Overpaying or Underbuying

Fluke multimeters are trusted worldwide for their durability and accuracy. Two popular choices, the Fluke 17B+ and the Fluke 87V, cater to very different types of users.

While the 17B+ is a mid-range general-purpose multimeter, the 87V is a flagship model designed for demanding industrial and professional applications.

Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter, for Electrical Applications, Measures AC/DC Voltage 1000V, Current Measurements to 10A, Resistance, Continuity, Diode, Capacitance, Frequency, and Temperature Testing

Let’s compare them side by side.

πŸ“‹ Quick Overview

  • Fluke 17B+: Affordable and versatile, best for technicians, engineers, and hobbyists who need reliable True-RMS measurement with temperature and capacitance support.
  • Fluke 87V: Premium industrial multimeter with superior accuracy, advanced measurement features, and extreme durability.

πŸ“Š Fluke 17B+ vs Fluke 87V Comparison Table

FeatureFluke 17B+Fluke 87V
Display6000-count LCD with backlight20,000-count LCD with dual display
True-RMSYesYes
AC/DC VoltageUp to 1000VUp to 1000V
Current MeasurementUp to 10AUp to 20A (30s overload)
ResistanceUp to 40 MΞ©Up to 50 MΞ©
CapacitanceUp to 10,000 Β΅FUp to 9,999 Β΅F
FrequencyYesYes (with high accuracy)
Temperature MeasurementYes (with probe)Yes (with probe)
Continuity & Diode TestYesYes
πŸ’³ PricingπŸ’²Check PriceπŸ’² Check Price
Special FeaturesMin/Max recording, Temp probeLow-pass filter, peak min/max (250 Β΅s), dual display, selectable filter
Safety RatingCAT III 600VCAT III 1000V, CAT IV 600V
Build QualityRobust, mid-tierRugged, industrial-grade
Battery Type2 Γ— AA9V battery
Target UserTechnicians, engineers, hobbyistsIndustrial electricians, engineers, advanced professionals

βœ… Pros & Cons of Fluke 17B+

Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter, for Electrical Applications, Measures AC/DC Voltage 1000V, Current Measurements to 10A, Resistance, Continuity, Diode, Capacitance, Frequency, and Temperature Testing

Check Price on Amazon

Pros

  • True-RMS for accurate AC readings
  • Affordable compared to high-end models
  • Measures up to 1000V
  • Temperature measurement included
  • Reliable for technicians and hobbyists

Cons

  • Limited display resolution (6000 counts vs 20,000 on 87V)
  • Lower safety rating (CAT III 600V only)
  • Fewer advanced features compared to 87V

βœ… Pros & Cons of Fluke 87V

Fluke 87V Industrial Digital Multimeter, For Advanced Troubleshooting, Measures 1000 V AC/DC, Peak Min/Max, Low Pass Filter, Includes TL75 Test Leads, AC175 Alligator Clips, 80BK Temp Probe

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Pros

  • Extremely accurate with 20,000-count display
  • Industrial-grade safety (CAT III 1000V, CAT IV 600V)
  • Advanced features like low-pass filter and fast min/max capture
  • Measures up to 20A
  • Highly rugged design, built for tough environments

Cons

  • More expensive than the 17B+
  • Heavier and bulkier
  • Overkill for simple troubleshooting tasks

πŸ› οΈ Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose the Fluke 17B+ if you’re a technician, electronics hobbyist, or engineer who needs a versatile, affordable, and reliable multimeter for everyday tasks.
  • Choose the Fluke 87V if you’re an industrial electrician or advanced professional who requires high accuracy, advanced diagnostics, and rugged safety ratings.

In short:

  • 17B+ = Budget-friendly reliability
  • 87V = Premium professional performance

Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter, Measures AC/DC Voltage To 600 V & Current to 10 A, Measures Resistance, Continuity, Frequency & Capacitance, Includes Battery, Holster & 4mm PVC-Insulated Test Lead

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