Fluke 115 vs Fluke 117: Which One’s Best?
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It’s a multimeter showdown. Only one will be the winner in this countdown of features, specs, and differences between the Fluke 115 and 117.
There are many models of Fluke meters, but the most popular ones are the Fluke 115 and 117. Both have a variety of features that make them work well for general electrical purposes. However, there is always an age-old question: which one should I get?
This article will compare and contrast the two most popular models of this brand, the Fluke 115 and 117. We’ll take a look at what makes them different from each other, how you can use them in your workplace, and whether or not it would be worth investing in either model.
Let’s explore their features to find out if they’re on par with each other or not.
Fluke 115 Main Features
| Use | Field Service |
| AC / DC Volts | 600V max |
| AC/ DC Amps | 20A max |
| Capacitance | Yes |
| Frequency | Yes |
| Diode Test | Yes |
| Temperature | No |
| Ghost Voltage Detection (LoZ) | No |
| Non Contact AC Voltage (VoltAlert) | No |
Fluke 117 Main Features
| Use | Field Service |
| AC / DC Volts | 600V max |
| AC / DC Amps | 20A max |
| Capacitance | Yes |
| Frequency | Yes |
| Diode Test | Yes |
| Temperature | No |
| Ghost Voltage Detection (LoZ) | Yes |
| Non Contact AC Voltage (VoltAlert) | Yes |
Overview
The Fluke 115 and 117 are great for testing appliances around the home. Although they can’t read milliamps or microamps, these meters offer many benefits that make them ideal for any household with an electric device to test!
The Fluke 117 possesses more features, making it the better option for those looking to do their job efficiently and safely. The device can detect voltage without contacting metal surfaces, so you don’t need any special tools or skills, and automatically switches between AC/DC when connected across different sources of power. While this makes your life more accessible than ever before in terms of safety precautions, there may be some drawbacks- namely, price tag!
The Fluke 115 is the perfect option for any beginner with an affordable and easy-to-use multimeter. The one-handed design makes it comfortable while also being accurate enough.
If you want an outstanding balance between features and price, the Fluke 115 is your best bet. But if money isn’t an issue for you and you need more incredible features, then go with model 117, which has more advanced options but at a higher price.
Fluke 115 vs. Fluke 117 | Comparison
- Fluke 115 is a handheld digital multimeter, which allows accurate reading on nonlinear loads. It has a True-RMS DC measurement capability, so you'll have the information you need for precision, precise diagnosis of electrical problems.
- This pocket-sized meter fits comfortably in your hand or tool pouch for convenient use, while its thoroughly tested design provides accuracy and ease of use. It has a large white LED Backlight to make reading the display possible in poorly lit areas. At the same time, its true RMS technology makes sure that measurements taken on nonlinear loads are accurate and not distorted by harmonic frequencies.
- The Fluke 115 Compact True RMS Digital Multimeter is an excellent piece of equipment to have around the house, shop, place of work, and for any project because it's easy to use. Its compact size makes it very portable for any job, big or small. It has all the functions one needs from a multimeter, such as checking continuity, frequency, capacitance, and diode test. This meter also offers true RMS digital accuracy, so you know your measurements are accurate every time!
- The 115 Fluke multimeter provides solid readings for domestic electronics. It measures 10A AC/DC voltage with 20A overload up to 30-seconds maximum, which shows true RMS voltage and current values in 6000 count resolution, as well as the ability to be able to detect capacitance on your circuit board.
- The Fluke 115 is a true RMS multimeter that was independently tested for use in CAT III 600V environments, and it offers one-handed operation. The backlit display is easy to read, and it provides comfortable, quick access to most functions. It is small enough to fit into tight spaces yet has the ruggedness of an industrial tool.
- The only thing that could make this product better is if it could do non-contact voltage detection and low input impedance.
- The Fluke 117 is a world-class, professional-grade multimeter that comes equipped with some very high-quality features, such as VoltAlert technology for non-contact voltage detection and AutoVolt automatic AC/DC voltage selection. A significant difference and upgrade from the Fluke 115.
- It also supports DC millivolts, enabling you to make the most accurate readings possible, with a range of 600 mV and a resolution of up to 0.1 mV. Built-in LCD measures significant digits, so it's easy to read.
- Low input impedance is a feature that can help you work through any electrical issue without false readings or faulty results due to ghost voltages. The 115 doesnt offer that.
- If you need to measure AC or DC voltage, resistance, frequency, capacitance, or continuity, then the Fluke 117 will do what you need it to. You can measure ten amps, 20 amp overloads for 30 seconds, and it can record signal fluctuations.
- With CAT III 600 V safety rating and compatibility with an optional magnetic hanger (ToolPak) for hands-free operation, itll take care of all your troubleshooting needs in style. Whether you're out on a job site or performing electrical installations underground, this multimeter will be right there by your side while living up to its name!
- The Fluke 177 is not just any old multimeter. It's an advanced one that can do non-contact measurements and readings in AC/DC ranges!
Main differences between the two models
Overall performance
Winner: Fluke 117
If you want to have an efficient multimeter, look no further than the Fluke 117. Its performance is by far superior and offers more features that make your reading experience quicker with safety in mind!
The Fluke 117 is the most advanced multimeter on the market. Its non-contact voltage detection, automatic AC/DC voltage selection mode, and easy-to-read LCD screen edges ahead of the 115.
The 115 does still offer straightforward and essential readings and shouldn’t be ignored. It’s an excellent device for a beginner or who only needs to use one occasionally around the home.
It is important to remember that the Fluke 117 has a steeper price tag than the 115, so it may not be ideal for someone just starting.
The most notable difference between these two models lies in their performance. The best one would depend on whether you want advanced features or something more simple. If you would like a more streamlined model, then the Fluke 115 is for you. Otherwise, you’ll want to go with the Fluke 117. Either way, both multimeters will provide accurate readings and solve your electrical problems!
Design features
Winner: Fluke 115
Both multimeters have a lightweight, one-handed design that makes them easy to hold and handle. The Fluke 117 does provide access to more features, non-contact voltage detection, for example, which might be a little intimidating for beginners.
This is another area where the 115 gets the edge because it’s more straightforward in its design and direction of buttons. Beginners will find it much easier to use.
The Fluke 115 has an ergonomic design that makes it comfortable for handling and use. Both multimeters are designed with single-handed, one-piece molded construction. However, the 115 has a lateral opening case that makes its use way easier.
Price
Winner: Fluke 117
Sure, the 115 digital multimeter is cheaper than the 117, but when you consider the number of additional, it works out to be a better value overall. There’s only about a $20 difference in their list price.
The Fluke 115 is less expensive than the 117, but both are quite affordable for their range of features. The two models both have UL-certified CAT III safety ratings and similar rated accuracy, among others.
So, which one should you purchase? It depends on what your needs are. If you want something simple, then go with the Fluke 115. But if you need advanced features packed inside, then go with the Fluke 117!
Calibration
Winner: Fluke 117
There are many benefits to having a Fluke 115, and the ease of use is one primary reason this product has gained popularity. The protection system ensures that you can be sure no one but yourself calibrates your multimeter because you need to set your password before using it.
It’ll come pre-set with the password 1234, and the instruction manual provides step-by-step instructions on how to set up your password. A word of caution, though. If you forget your password, it’s going to cost you a lot of money to reset it.
The Fluke 117 calibration is slightly different and more manageable, and it’s all laid in the Calibration chapter in the user manual. It’s only two pages and very easy to understand.
Ease of use
Winner: Fluke 117
While the 115 offers some great features, it’s aimed at the beginner market. It’s straightforward to operate, so you don’t need to be an electrician to use it. We like the lateral opening case, which makes it easy to operate. However, it does lack the additional features found on the 117.
For instance, the Fluke 117 can perform a continuity/diode test. It has a Volt Alert feature and low input impedance. You can also automatically select Ac or DC volts.
It isn’t enjoyable, neither has wireless capabilities, and they won’t test temperature measurement. However, the Fluke 117 has a built-in non-contact voltage tester that’s absent on the 115.
They are both very similar in appearance and share a lot of characteristics. For example, they both have a backlit LCD, an analog bar graph, and a min/max recording with a time stamp. Both come with a spare battery, holster, and low battery indicator.
As is standard with Fluke products, the standard warranty is three years.
The Fluke 117 is slightly better because it adds more advanced features to its list of capabilities. The Fluke 115 works well if you’re starting out but if you want more bells and whistles, go with the Fluke 117.
Fluke 115 vs Fluke 117 Conclusion
Fluke 115 is a popular choice among the general public due to its affordable price. It also has many features to use around the house or office for essential electrical work. The Fluke digital multimeter series offers many useful functions, such as AC/DC voltage, continuity, resistance, and capacitance, to name a few.
The Fluke 117 is much more expensive than the 115. It’s also packed with many features similar to other models in the Fluke series, but it also has some exclusive ones. One of these unique features is a LoZ function that is very useful for HVAC contractors. The Fluke 117 also comes with a rugged blow-molded case that makes it more suitable for fieldwork in harsh conditions.
Overall, we think the Fluke 117 is better than the 115 primarily because it’s loaded with features that make it more capable and valuable for enthusiasts and professionals. It doesn’t matter if you’re looking for a multimeter to calibrate your vehicle, monitor battery health, troubleshoot circuits, or check the insulation. One of these two products will get the job done.
When I’m not testing and reviewing tools, you’ll find me in front of a hot BBQ, cold drink in hand, cooking up something big, and spending quality time with my wife and two boys. I’m also often found in my workshop working on my next project!
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