Fluke’s 15B+ and 17B+ are part of the company’s compact digital multimeter lineup, designed for technicians, students, and electronics hobbyists.
🏷️ Fluke Multimeter Deals ⭐⭐⭐⭐
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
Feature | Fluke 15B+ | Fluke 17B+ |
---|---|---|
Display | 4000-count LCD with backlight | 6000-count LCD with backlight |
True-RMS | No | Yes |
AC/DC Voltage | Up to 1000V | Up to 1000V |
Current Measurement | Up to 10A | Up to 10A |
Resistance | Up to 40 MΩ | Up to 40 MΩ |
Capacitance | Up to 1000 µF | Up to 10,000 µF |
💳 Pricing | 💲Check price | 💲Check Price |
Frequency | Yes | Yes |
Temperature Measurement | No | Yes (with probe) |
Continuity & Diode Test | Yes | Yes |
Min/Max Recording | No | Yes |
Battery Type | 2 × AA | 2 × AA |
Size & Weight | ~455 g | ~455 g |
CAT Rating | CAT III 600V | CAT III 600V |
✅ Pros & Cons of Fluke 15B+
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+
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