UEI (Universal Enterprises, Inc.) is a trusted brand among electricians and HVAC technicians for producing affordable and practical clamp multimeters. Two of their most popular models, the UEI DL379B and the UEI DL369, often get compared by professionals and apprentices alike.
While both meters are compact, True-RMS, and reliable, they target slightly different use cases. Let’s break down the differences so you can decide which one fits your needs best.
📋 Overview of the UEI DL369
The UEI DL369 is a versatile and budget-friendly clamp meter designed for electricians and HVAC technicians who need the essentials in a lightweight, portable package.
Key Features:
- True-RMS accuracy
- AC/DC current up to 400A
- AC/DC voltage up to 600V
- Resistance, continuity, and diode test
- Capacitance and frequency measurement
- Auto-ranging with hold function
- Test lead storage in the back
- CAT III 600V safety rating
The DL369 is known for being a solid all-around clamp meter with just the right mix of features for residential, commercial, and HVAC work.
📋 Overview of the UEI DL379B
The UEI DL379B builds on the DL369 with added functions for HVAC and field service technicians who want a bit more capability.
Key Features:
- True-RMS accuracy
- AC/DC current up to 400A
- AC/DC voltage up to 600V
- Resistance, continuity, capacitance, and frequency
- Diode test and duty cycle measurement
- Temperature measurement (with included probe)
- Backlit display for low-light conditions
- Min/Max data hold
- CAT III 600V safety rating
The DL379B is better suited for HVAC professionals who need temperature testing and data-hold functions on top of standard electrical measurements.
⚖️ Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | UEI DL369 | UEI DL379B |
|---|---|---|
| True-RMS | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Max Current | 400A AC/DC | 400A AC/DC |
| Max Voltage | 600V AC/DC | 600V AC/DC |
| Resistance/Continuity/Capacitance | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Frequency Measurement | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Diode Test | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Duty Cycle | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Temperature Measurement | ❌ No | ✅ Yes (with probe) |
| Backlight | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Min/Max Recording | ❌ No | ✅ Yes |
| Test Lead Storage | ✅ Yes | ✅ Yes |
| Safety Rating | CAT III 600V | CAT III 600V |
| Price Range (approx.) | $ (budget-friendly) | $$ (mid-range) |
👍 Pros and Cons
UEI DL369
✅ Affordable and reliable
✅ Lightweight and portable
✅ Covers all the essential functions
✅ Great entry-level clamp meter
❌ No temperature measurement
❌ Lacks duty cycle and Min/Max features
❌ Display is not backlit
UEI DL379B
✅ Adds temperature measurement for HVAC work
✅ Duty cycle and Min/Max functions for advanced troubleshooting
✅ Backlit display improves usability in dim areas
✅ Still compact and user-friendly
❌ More expensive than the DL369
❌ Features may be unnecessary for users who only need basics
🛠️ Which One Should You Choose?
- Choose the UEI DL369 if you’re a student, apprentice, or general electrician looking for an affordable and reliable clamp meter that covers all the fundamentals.
- Choose the UEI DL379B if you’re an HVAC professional or advanced technician who needs temperature testing, duty cycle, and Min/Max recording for troubleshooting more complex systems.
💡 Final Thoughts
Both the UEI DL369 and DL379B are excellent clamp meters that deliver value and reliability at a fair price. The DL369 is the no-nonsense, budget-friendly option, while the DL379B adds extra features that HVAC and advanced technicians will appreciate. Your choice depends on whether you need just the essentials or more specialized functions.