FLUKE 116 vs 117 Digital Multimeter : Which One is Better?

A multimeter, usually a hand-held device, is an electronic measuring instrument that provides different kinds of measurements including current, voltage, resistance and so on.

It is used for finding faults so repairs can be made and work can continue without a glitch and at optimum capacity.

Fluke’s 116 and 117 are both digital multimeters that are easy-to-use and give quick and accurate readings.

Comparison Table: Fluke 116 vs Fluke 117

Both have been tested for safe use and have excellent display features while also allowing for one-handed operation. They are, however, designed for different kinds of applications.

Here is a quick comparison table with key specs to help you decide –  

Let’s look at both these products individually and analyze their differences closely.

Quick Review of the Fluke 116

Founded in 1948, Fluke Corporation is a subsidiary of the industrial conglomerate, Fortive. It manufactures industrial test tools along with measurement and diagnostic equipment and networking solutions.

The Fluke 116 is a digital multimeter with a built-in thermometer for HVAC applications and the ability to measure microamps too.

It allows quick troubleshooting and repairing of HVAC equipment by measuring resistance, continuity, frequency as well as capacitance.

Taking accurate readings on the 116 Multimeter is made easy and convenient in a variety of situations with its excellent display and LED backlight.

Readings are stored on the multimeter until a new one is made for extra efficiency.

The 116’s ruggedness and reliability – trademark features of Fluke products – is accompanied by an attention to safety as it has been tested independently in CAT II 600 V environments.

Its compact design further allows for one-handed operation and can even be fitted into a magnetic hanger for hands-free operation.

This video shows you how to use the Fluke 116:

 

Special Features

• Measures voltage, resistance, continuity, frequency, and capacitance – all in one
• Measures temperatures of objects and liquids up to 400°C and thus, allows testing of heating and air conditioning appliances
• Microamps to test flame sensors
• Min/Max/Average helps record signal fluctuations
• Data Capture stores reading automatically until a new one is made
• Low Input Impedance helps prevent false readings due to ghost voltage
• Optimum display doesn’t lose contrast at different angles and has a large font which makes readings easier
• LED Backlight makes it possible to see results on the device even in low light
• Holster with probe holders makes storage easy and allows for optimum freedom of movement
• ToolPak magnetic hanger provides the opportunity for hands-free operation
• Independently tested for safe use in CAT III 600V environments

Limitations

• Temperature readings could be more accurate
• Display could be improved

The Fluke 116 Multimeter is designed to be used by HVAC professionals.

It is ideal for HVAC commercial and residential maintenance and installation troubleshooting, verifying temperature on equipment and microamp requirements as well for ensuring that the motor, compressor, heat pumps and capacitors are functioning at the optimum level.

 

Quick Review of the Fluke117

The Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter was made for use by electricians and provides accurate readings of frequency, resistance, continuity, and capacitance for electrical and electronic devices.

It features True RMS for demanding applications like commercial buildings, hospitals, and schools.

The 117’s special VoltAlert technology allows for non-contact voltage detection which is a great safety feature as it shows the voltage on an object by simply hovering the multimeter over it.

Signal fluctuations are recorded by the Min/Max/Average readings.

Like the 116, the 117 has a compact design allowing for one-handed operation and has been tested for safe use.

It also boasts of automatic shut-off after 15 minutes of inactivity which goes a long way in maintaining battery life.

To understand the working of the Fluke 117, check out this video:

Special Features

• VoltAlert technology provides for fast, go/no go non-contact voltage detection making readings accurate and easy
• AutoVolt ensures automatic AC/DC voltage selection
• Measures resistance, continuity, frequency, and capacitance – all in one
• Min/Max/Average helps record signal fluctuations
• Low Input Impedance helps prevent false readings due to ghost voltage
• LED Backlight makes it possible to see results on the device even in low light
• True RMS capabilities give accurate measurements on non-linear loads
• Auto Shut-Off after 15 minutes of inactivity increases battery life and saves cost
• Holster with probe holders makes storage easy and allows for optimum freedom of movement
• ToolPak magnetic hanger provides the opportunity for hands-free operation
• Independently tested for safe use in CAT III 600V environments

Limitations

• Doesn’t measure microamps
• Display could be improved

The Fluke 117 Multimeter finds use in a range of electrical and electronic maintenance and troubleshooting as it allows checks on continuity, frequency, capacitance, etc along with non-contact voltage detection and also helps eliminate ghost signals. Electricians would find the Fluke 117 to be perfect for their needs.

 

Key Differences

The Fluke 116 and 117 are each designed for different kinds of usage and so, comparing the two products comes down to the individual’s need rather than the features of these two products which are to a great extent, quite similar. Here’s a quick look at their specifications.

Summary

For all practical purposes, the Fluke 116 and the 117 are both equally great choices for the typical professional that they have each been designed for.

They both do, however, have a slight difference in features that you might want to look into before purchasing one or the other.

The non-contact voltage detection of 117 is quite useful while the 116’s ability to measure microamps is impressive and gives it an edge. Still, the decision rests upon the application and on you.

Last update on 2024-09-08 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API