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The Fluke 15B+ or 17B+? Your Quick Guide to Choosing the Right Tool

Fluke’s 15B+ and 17B+ are part of the company’s compact digital multimeter lineup, designed for technicians, students, and electronics hobbyists.

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

At first glance, these two meters look almost identical — and indeed, they share many features. However, the 17B+ includes some extra functionality that makes it better suited for advanced work.

Let’s dive into the details.

📋 Quick Overview

  • Fluke 15B+: Reliable, affordable digital multimeter covering all the essential measurements for electrical troubleshooting.
  • Fluke 17B+: Builds on the 15B+ with True-RMS accuracy, temperature measurement, and Min/Max recording for more advanced applications.

📊 Fluke 15B+ vs Fluke 17B+ Comparison Table

FeatureFluke 15B+Fluke 17B+
Display4000-count LCD with backlight6000-count LCD with backlight
True-RMSNoYes
AC/DC VoltageUp to 1000VUp to 1000V
Current MeasurementUp to 10AUp to 10A
ResistanceUp to 40 MΩUp to 40 MΩ
CapacitanceUp to 1000 µFUp to 10,000 µF
💳 Pricing💲Check price💲Check Price
FrequencyYesYes
Temperature MeasurementNoYes (with probe)
Continuity & Diode TestYesYes
Min/Max RecordingNoYes
Battery Type2 × AA2 × AA
Size & Weight~455 g~455 g
CAT RatingCAT III 600VCAT III 600V

✅ Pros & Cons of Fluke 15B+

Fluke 15B+ Digital Multimeter, for Electrical Applications, Measures AC/DC Voltage and Current Measurements up to 1000V and 10A, Along with Resistance, Continuity, Diode, and Capacitance Capabilities

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Pros

  • Affordable entry-level Fluke multimeter
  • Measures up to 1000V
  • Backlit display
  • Durable and reliable build quality
  • Great for students and beginners

Cons

  • No True-RMS (less accurate for non-linear AC loads)
  • Limited capacitance range (up to 1000 µF)
  • No temperature measurement
  • No Min/Max recording

✅ 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

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Pros

  • True-RMS for accurate AC measurements
  • Wider capacitance range (up to 10,000 µF)
  • Temperature measurement capability
  • Min/Max recording for troubleshooting
  • Higher resolution display (6000 counts)

Cons

  • More expensive than 15B+
  • Slightly more advanced than necessary for basic tasks
  • Slightly heavier than smaller compact models (like 106/107)

🛠️ Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose the Fluke 15B+ if you’re a beginner, student, or hobbyist who needs a reliable and affordable meter for general troubleshooting.
  • Choose the Fluke 17B+ if you’re a technician or engineer who needs True-RMS, temperature measurement, and advanced diagnostic features.

In short:

  • 15B+ = Affordable and practical
  • 17B+ = Professional-grade accuracy and features

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