Is there any difference in accuracy between a clamp meter and a multimeter?
When measuring an ammeter, it is necessary to disconnect the circuit and then connect the ammeter in series in the circuit, which is very troublesome. The range of an ammeter is limited and cannot measure high currents. Generally, the range is 5A.
In practical work, current transformers are generally used to expand the range of ammeters. A clamp meter is actually a combination of a through type current transformer and an ammeter, so it can not only measure AC current without interruption, but also easily measure large currents.
The current clamp meter is no longer the clamp meter of decades ago. It uses the Hall induction principle and can not only measure AC circuits and DC currents; Plug in the probes to transform into a digital multimeter, which can also measure parameters such as voltage, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and more. As for accuracy, it's the same as a digital multimeter, there's not much difference.
They differ
If we have to say which one is better between a clamp meter and a multimeter, there are still some differences in the experience of using them.
1. A clamp meter can continuously measure current, which a multimeter cannot achieve. If it is necessary to frequently measure AC/DC current, it is recommended to buy a clamp meter; If you don't need to measure the current frequently, just buy a multimeter.
In order to continuously measure current, a clamp meter must have jaws, so its body is relatively slender. Because there is no bracket on the back of the caliper, I personally feel that the caliper tends to be held in my hand for measurement; The back of the multimeter has a bracket, which is more inclined to be placed on a table for measurement. So if you often sit next to a table for repairs, it's more convenient to buy a multimeter, otherwise it's uncomfortable to stretch your neck and look at the screen of the caliper.
3. In terms of price, the clamp meter not only has most of the functions of a multimeter, but also has an additional current transformer, so the price is relatively higher.
