FLUKE 87V VS 88V Digital Multimeter – Which One Should I Get?

If you’re looking for a multimeter, you’ll likely come across both the Fluke 87v and 88v models. They both offer important features, including precision, safety measures, and diverse settings. So, how do you determine which one is superior? Let’s compare the Fluke 87v to the 88v.

In this article, we’ll give you a comprehensive overview of the Fluke 88v and 87v multimeters to make your decision-making process smoother. We’ll compare their key features, such as voltage ranges, environmental conditions, and frequency measurement capabilities.

By the end of this post, you’ll have all the information you need to choose the ideal model for your upcoming projects!

Comparison Fluke 87v vs 88v

Before doing a side-by-side comparison of fluke 88v vs 87v let’s have a look at each of them separately.

The Fluke 87v Multimeter is an extremely valuable tool for individuals who work with electronics and wiring, or require precise readings during the troubleshooting process. It boasts a variety of features, including the ability to measure temperature, capacitance, current, and frequency.

Furthermore, its unique overload protection system allows it to withstand up to 1,000V of AC or DC from hazardous substances, while its thermocouple probe can measure temperatures up to 500°C (932°F) with meticulous attention to detail.

All of these capabilities ensure that you get accurate readings even in challenging situations. If you’re seeking a reliable multimeter with precise measurements and long-lasting durability, the Fluke 87v Multimeter may be the ideal choice for your professional needs.

87v Features

Accurate measurements	This multimeter gives you true RMS accuracy to trust your measurements.
Waterproof and dustproof	The Fluke 87v is fully and dustproof, making it the perfect tool for use in demanding environments.
Safety rated	It meets safety ratings CAT III 1000 V and CAT IV 600 V meter to keep you safe while working.
Durability	This powerful multimeter was built to last. It’s rugged and survives drops, so you know it won’t let you down when you need it most.
Accessories compatible	Want to add on some Fluke accessories? No problem. The 87v is compatible with all of Fluke’s genuine accessories, making getting the tools you need easier.
Meets the toughest standards	The 87v has been tested against the toughest safety and electrical standards, so you can trust it to deliver results when you need them most.

Pros

Able to work in extreme hot and cold weather
Can easily survive drops and rough handling
Sealed against dust, dirt, and water
Compatible with Fluke genuine accessories

Cons

Doesn’t come with a manual
Can’t measure pulse width

Fluke 88v Multimeter Review

The FLUKE 88V Automotive MULTIMETER 2550519 is a must-have tool for mechanics. It provides precise measurements and reliable readings, making troubleshooting a breeze. It can measure voltage, ohms, and current in both AC and DC modes, making it useful for virtually any car on the market.

Additionally, the bright backlit LCD display ensures readings are visible even in dimly lit areas, allowing technicians to work without worrying about poor lighting.

Moreover, thanks to its rugged design, the FLUKE 88V can withstand drops and jolts, making it an essential tool for anyone who works with cars on a daily basis.

Features

Never fear a dead battery again with the Fluke 88V automotive multimeter in your trunk for roadside emergencies. Its ten meg ohm input impedance prevents false readings, while the Min/Max/Avg recording mode ensures you always have data to work with. If you’re ever stranded with a broken alternator belt, use the pulse width function to help diagnose the issue.

This multimeter provides accurate results, with a resolution down to 0.1 millivolts and an accuracy of up to 2%. Whether testing wiring or measuring battery voltage, you can trust that the Fluke 88V will deliver precise readings every time.

Take it anywhere as it weighs just 410 grams and is small and lightweight enough to carry with you. The tough case protects it from impacts and moisture, ensuring it can withstand any abuse you put it through.

The Fluke 88V automotive multimeter is perfect for testing batteries, alternators, starters, and more. Plus, the analog bar graph makes it easy to see changes in voltage, while the large backlit display allows for easy reading in low-light conditions.

Furthermore, the analog bar graph on the Fluke 88V automotive multimeter helps you quickly and easily see changes in voltage. This multimeter is a reliable tool for any mechanic who needs accurate and precise readings.

Pros

Troubleshooting feature
Most powerful automotive multimeter by Fluke
Can measure voltage up to 1000 V AC and DC
Specially designed for garage use
Limited lifetime warranty

Cons

A bit heavy
A bit pricey compared to other Fluke multimeters

Similarities And Differences

Similarities

Purpose Of Use

The Fluke 87V is designed for commercial electronic applications, while the 88V is more suitable for industrial use. The 87V has an IP67 rating, which makes it completely waterproof (up to 1 meter), making it great for use outdoors or in harsh environments. Additionally, it has a CAT III 600 V safety rating with resistance up to 10 MΩ for added accuracy during diagnostics.

On the other hand, the Fluke 88V offers up to 2000 volts of AC/DC current measurement protection with a solid-state fuse protection system and IP54 rating. While it is safe when exposed to dust or water splashes, it is not ideal for use when submerged in water, as its counterpart can withstand.

Built-In Temperature Sensor

Another important difference between the Fluke 87V and 88V is their built-in temperature sensor capabilities. The 87V is capable of measuring temperatures as low as -20°C, which is lower than the minimum temperature that its larger counterpart can measure (-30°C). This makes the 87V a better choice for those who need to measure very low temperatures. However, if you don’t require such low-temperature measurements, the 88V might still be a suitable option.

Differences

Accuracy

When it comes to accuracy, the Fluke 88V has an edge over its predecessor in two important areas. The first is the temperature measurement range. While the Fluke 87V has a temperature measurement range of -200°C to +1300°C, the 88V can measure temperatures from -210°C up to +1820°C.

This expanded temperature range makes the 88V a better choice for those who need to measure high temperatures. With this increased accuracy, the 88V can provide more precise readings and help ensure that your measurements are as accurate as possible.

Measurement Capabilities

Both the Fluke 87V and 88V offer VAC/VDC/OHM measurement capabilities, but the 88V provides higher resolution than its predecessor. With a resolution of 10 micro-volts, the 88V can provide more accurate readings when measuring very small signals, compared to the 87V’s resolution of one millivolt. This makes the 88V a better choice for those who need to measure small signals with high precision. However, for most general applications, the Fluke 87V’s resolution is still sufficient.

Data-Hold

One notable difference between the Fluke 87V and 88V is the inclusion of auto-hold technology, which is only available in the newer model. This feature eliminates the need to manually hold the meter, making it easier to take continuous readings during your work session.

The auto-hold function on the Fluke 88V even stores min/max measurements and elapsed time since the last reading, essentially providing a built-in memory system. This feature is not available on the Fluke 87V, so users must manually hold the meter to take continuous readings.

So Which is the Better One?

When choosing the right multimeter, it can be challenging to determine which model will best fit your needs. The Fluke 87V and 88V are both great options if you’re looking for a reliable and accurate multimeter.

The Fluke 87V is ideal for professionals, offering superior accuracy, fast readings, true-RMS measurements, and a wide range of features.

Meanwhile, the Fluke 88V is specifically designed for industrial use, boasting advanced features like temperature measurements and spectral analysis capabilities.

Overall, both models provide reliable measurements and excellent performance. The choice ultimately comes down to your specific requirements and intended use.

FAQ

Q: Can the Fluke 87V measure temperature?

Yes, the Fluke 87V can measure temperature. Its thermocouple probe can measure temperatures up to 500°C (932°F) with meticulous attention to detail.

Q: Can the Fluke 88V be used for automotive applications?

Yes, the Fluke 88V can be used for automotive applications. It is specifically designed for this purpose and can measure voltage, ohms, and current in both AC and DC modes, making it useful for virtually any car on the market.

Q: Which multimeter has a better temperature measurement range?

The Fluke 88V has a better temperature measurement range than the Fluke 87V. While the Fluke 87V has a temperature measurement range of -200°C to +1300°C, the 88V can measure temperatures from -210°C up to +1820°C.

Q: Does the Fluke 87V have auto-hold technology?

No, the Fluke 87V does not have auto-hold technology. Users must manually hold the meter to take continuous readings.

Q: Can the Fluke 88V withstand drops and jolts?

Yes, the Fluke 88V can withstand drops and jolts, making it an essential tool for anyone who works with cars on a daily basis.

When it comes to measuring electrical parameters, having the right tools can make a big difference in the accuracy of your readings. While a digital multimeter like the Fluke 87V or 88V can be a great starting point, it’s also important to consider other instruments that can supplement your measurements. For example, if you’re on a tight budget, you may want to check out our review of the best low-cost oscilloscopes to see if one could be a good addition to your toolkit.

Final Words

In summary, when comparing the Fluke 87v vs 88v multimeter, it is important to consider factors such as their purpose of use, measurement capabilities, accuracy, and built-in features such as temperature sensors and data-hold functions.

The Fluke 87v is designed for commercial electronic applications and offers accurate readings, true-RMS measurements, and a waterproof and dustproof design. It is suitable for those who require precise measurements and need a durable multimeter to withstand harsh conditions.

On the other hand, the Fluke 88v is geared toward industrial use and offers advanced features such as temperature measurements and spectral analysis capabilities. It also has a higher resolution than its predecessor, making it ideal for measuring small signals with high precision. Additionally, the 88v includes an auto-hold function that stores min/max measurements and elapsed time since the last reading.

Ultimately, the choice between the Fluke 87v vs 88v will depend on your specific needs and intended use. The 87v is an excellent choice for those looking for a reliable and accurate multimeter for basic electrical measurement demands, while the 88v is ideal for engineers dealing with more complex systems.

Regardless of which multimeter you choose, both the Fluke 87v and 88v are reliable, high-performance, and provide superior accuracy for years to come.