It’s Monday: You’re in the thick of a production line crisis. A machine’s down, costing you thousands by the hour, and your old multimeter’s giving you garbage readings. Then you pull out a FLUKE or Klein, and in minutes, you’ve nailed the issue and saved the day. So which Multimeters Dominate when you need them? That’s the kind of dependability small to mid-sized manufacturers need to stay competitive. Here at Manufacturing International, we know what keeps shops running. This post lays out the top FLUKE and Klein multimeters, why they’re worth your investment, and where to grab them to keep your operation humming. (Heads up: We may earn a small commission from KC Tool or Amazon links, but it won’t cost you a dime extra.) Ready to level up your toolkit and squash downtime? Let’s get to it.
Why FLUKE and Klein Multimeters Dominate And Are The Pro’s Picks
Since 1948, FLUKE has been crafting multimeters in the USA with unmatched precision and durability, earning trust from pros in difficult industrial settings. Klein Tools, a family-owned American brand since 1857, builds rugged gear that’s a favorite for electricians and manufacturers on tight budgets. These brands are the backbone of Maintenance, Repair, and Operations (MRO) for small to mid-sized manufacturers ($100K-$100M revenue), where every second of uptime counts. With True RMS accuracy, CAT IV safety ratings, and ergonomic designs, these tools make tough diagnostics feel effortless.
These multimeters are perfect for modern MRO setups, whether you’re troubleshooting a PLC, maintaining machinery, or stocking a tool crib to cut costs (check our 5-Step Guide to Creating an MRO Tool Crib). From automotive shops to factory floors, FLUKE and Klein deliver the reliability pros need. Let’s dive into the top five multimeters that dominate.
The listed multimeters are a great fit for modern factories and MRO setups, whether you’re stocking a tool crib (check our 5-Step Guide to Creating an MRO Tool Crib) or building a premium industrial toolkit (see our Top-Rated Hand Tool Brands Guide) or our breakdown of Premium Ratchets. In our quest to always highlight the best for your plant floor, take a look at the KNIPEX Pliers. From industry 4.0 factories to every electrician. Let’s dive into the top five multimeters that dominate.
Top 5 FLUKE and Klein Multimeters for Professionals
Here are the FLUKE and Klein multimeters that pros swear by, from the iconic FLUKE 87V to the budget-friendly Klein MM700. Each is a workhorse, backed by real-world use cases and pro feedback from EEVblog Forum and Reddit’s r/electricians, with links to buy from our trusted supplier Amazon.
1. FLUKE 87V Industrial Multimeter
Features: True RMS, 1000 V AC/DC, CAT IV 600 V, 4.5-digit display, temperature readings, high-resolution measurements.
Use Cases: Ideal for diagnosing issues in PLCs, motor drives, or HVAC systems in high-pressure manufacturing plants
Precision-engineered for advanced troubleshooting. Measures 1000V AC/DC with True-RMS. Ideal for electricians. Rugged, accurate, lifetime warranty.
Brand Made in: USA
Why It Dominates: Wirecutter’s 2025 review calls it the gold standard for industrial precision. See the 10 MRO Tools Every Manufacturer Should Have Guide.
Manufacturing International’s List of Premium Hand Tool Brands
2. Klein Tools MM700 Digital Multimeter
Features: True RMS, 1000 V AC/DC, CAT IV 600 V, auto-ranging, low-impedance mode, non-contact voltage detection.
Use Cases: Perfect for fixing electrical panels, maintaining machinery, or tackling facility repairs in manufacturing shops.
st it for tightening fittings without damage. It’s a versatile tool for pros who need finesse.
True-RMS Digital Multimeter: Auto-ranging, measures 1000V AC/DC, 10A, 40MΩ, plus temp, capacitance, frequency. Rugged, electrician-designed.
Brand Made in: USA
Why It Dominates: Pros on EEVblog Forum praise its ruggedness and value. Pairs well with other MRO essentials see Manufacturing International’s – 10 MRO Tools Every Manufacturer Should Have guide.
3. FLUKE 117 Electrician’s Multimeter
Features: True RMS, 600 V AC/DC, CAT III 600 V, non-contact VoltAlert technology, auto-ranging.
Use Cases: Great for sorting out control panels, electrical maintenance, or quick fixes on the shop floor.
The Fluke 117 Electrician’s True RMS Multimeter is a compact, reliable tool designed for electricians in commercial and residential settings. Engineered for safety and efficiency, this CAT III 600V-rated multimeter delivers accurate measurements with a user-friendly interface, ideal for demanding applications like commercial buildings, hospitals, and schools. Offering: - True RMS Technology: Ensures accurate measurements on non-linear loads for reliable results in noisy electrical environments. - VoltAlert™ Non-Contact Voltage Detection: Enhances safety by quickly identifying AC voltage without circuit contact.
Brand Made in: USA
Why It Dominates: Electricians on Reddit’s r/electricians love its simplicity and safety features, ideal for OSHA-compliant shops. Read more in “Is Your Shop OSHA-Compliant? Essential Safety Gear for 2025″.
4. Klein Tools CL800 Digital Clamp Multimeter
Features: True RMS, 600 A AC/DC, CAT IV 600 V, clamp design, low battery indicator, auto-ranging.
Use Cases: Measures current in motors, conveyors, or large equipment without breaking circuits—perfect for busy plants.
VERSATILE TOUGH CLAMP METER: Measures AC/DC current and NCVT via clamp; AC/DC voltage, resistance, continuity, frequency/duty cycle, diode test and capacitance via test-leads; temperature via thermocouple
Brand Made in: USA
Why It Dominates: Popular Mechanics’ 2025 review highlights its speed for non-invasive measurements. See how they fit into modern MRO setups (From Rust to Revenue: 5 Game-Changing MRO Supplies).
5. FLUKE 179 True RMS Multimeter
Features: True RMS, 1000 V AC/DC, CAT III 1000 V, temperature and capacitance measurement, backlit display.
Use Cases: Versatile for diagnostics in manufacturing gear, HVAC systems, or electrical setups across the plant.
Fluke 179/EDA2 6-Piece Industrial Electronics Multimeter Combo Kit. Full featured DMM with advanced electronic troubleshooting functions plus probes and hooks all packed in a sleek, durable carrying case.
Brand Made in: USA
Why It Dominates: Garage Journal Forum users call it a “jack-of-all-trades” tool—perfect for manufacturers needing one meter for everything. Boosts efficiency in MRO setups with our 5-Step Guide to Creating an MRO Tool Crib. BTW – KC Tool’s sets are a top choice for pros building a complete MRO arsenal.
Fluke vs. Klein: Why Pros Choose These Brands
| Feature | FLUKE | Klein |
|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | Razor-sharp True RMS (0.05%–0.5%) | Reliable True RMS, slightly less |
| Safety Ratings | CAT IV 600 V, CAT III 1000 V | CAT IV 600 V, field-ready |
| Durability | Built for shop-floor punishment | Tough, drop-resistant |
| Ease of Use | Feature-rich, intuitive navigation | Simple, fast auto-ranging |
| Pro Preference 2025 | #1 choice among professional technicians | #2 choice among professional technicians |
FLUKE excels in precision and safety; Klein offers rugged, affordable tools for daily shop-floor use. Making FLUKE and Klein the go-to for manufacturers, electricians and MRO pros.
Where to Buy Multimeters – Why Amazon
Amazon stands out as a one-stop shop for multimeters and professional tools, offering:
| Depth of Selection: Browse hundreds of multimeter models—from entry-level testers to industrial-grade True RMS meters—alongside probes, leads, batteries and complete tool kits. | Hassle-Free Returns: Didn’t get the performance you expected? Start a return in your account dashboard and ship it back—often with a prepaid label—within 30 days. |
|---|---|
| Competitive Costs: Dynamic pricing, daily deals and “Amazon Renewed” options let you tailor spend to your budget without sacrificing quality. | Real-World Insights: Thousands of verified user reviews, Q&A threads, and comparison charts help you zero in on the right meter or accessory before you buy. |
| Lightning-Fast Delivery: Prime members get free two-day (or even one-day) shipping on most tools. Need it sooner? Same-day delivery is available in many areas. | Business-Grade Perks: If you’re stocking a workshop, Amazon Business offers quantity discounts, multi-user accounts, and detailed spending analytics—ideal for small to mid-sized manufacturers. |
KC Tool is a Preferred Provider of Manufacturing International – For Premium Tools
We are an affiliate partner of both KC Tool and Amazon – so we make a small commission from either place you would purchase (does not affect your price). We do appreciate your support with that of course too. But back to why we like KC Tool:
America’s #1 German Tool Distributor
KC Tool is the premier source for German tools. They specialize in Felo, Gedore, Halder, Hazet, Heyco, Knipex, NWS, Picard, Stabila, Stahlwille, and Wera and stock over 10,000 different tools with over 25,000 available to order. You can shop with confidence knowing all of the tools they carry come with a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty (with the exception of bits, tweezers, and torque screwdrivers).
KC Tool was named a Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce 2024 Small Business Superstar.
KC Tool is a Minority Business Enterprise certified by the NMSDC.
KC Tool’s Customer Service
Customers rave about receiving in-stock orders within a single business day, paired with clear, proactive updates via email (customerservice@kctool.com) or phone (913-440-9766). Returns are handled with professionalism—RMAs are issued quickly and prepaid shipping labels provided, even for items reported months later. Their website’s real-time stock indicators and lifetime warranty on most tools further build confidence. As a finishing touch, many buyers appreciate small extras—like a complimentary Phillips bit tucked into their shipment.
More MRO & Safety Articles
- 10 MRO Tools Every Manufacturer Should Have
- Is Your Shop OSHA-Compliant? Essential Safety Gear for 2025
- 10 Top PPE Suppliers Every MRO Pro Needs to Know
- The $800 Billion Problem: Ignoring MRO Is Costing Manufacturers
- Wera Tools from Zyklop: Why Pros & Homeowners Can’t Get Enough
- Which Ratchet Sets Dominate? Top Picks for Pros
Conclusion on FLUKE and Klein Multimeters
FLUKE and Klein multimeters aren’t just tools—they’re a pro’s secret weapon. From the FLUKE 87V’s unmatched precision to the Klein CL800’s rugged versatility, these tools dominated the 2025 Pro Tool Reviews survey for a reason. Whether you’re an electrician, mechanic, or manufacturer, the 87V, MM700, 117, CL800, and 179 are built to keep your shop running, your team productive, and your profits safe. Got a favorite multimeter? Drop it in the comments or share it on X with #MultimeterPros—we’d love to hear your stories! Ready to measure, diagnose, and dominate? Shop the best FLUKE and Klein multimeters at Amazon today!
Sources
- Disclaimer – Prices are as of 7/31/25 and are subject to change.
