The meter question every apprentice asks
Walk into any electrical supply house and the meter wall is overwhelming. But in the field, the conversation almost always comes down to Fluke or Klein. Fluke is the premium standard. Klein is the value play that has gotten very good. Here is how the four most popular models actually compare.
Fluke 117: the gold standard
The Fluke 117 is the meter most journeymen will tell an apprentice to buy. True RMS readings, built-in non-contact voltage detection, AutoVolt mode that automatically selects AC or DC voltage, and a low input impedance mode for eliminating ghost voltages. It is CAT III 600V rated and built like it can survive a drop off a ladder.
The downside is price. At $250, it is the most expensive option here and it is a straight multimeter — no current clamp. You will still need a separate clamp meter or amp probe for current readings.
Klein CL800: the do-everything clamp meter
The Klein CL800 is a strong value pick in electrician meters. It is a True RMS clamp meter that measures AC/DC voltage, AC/DC current (up to 600A), resistance, continuity, frequency, capacitance, and temperature. The TRMS low impedance mode handles ghost voltages just like the Fluke.
At $140, you get a clamp meter and a multimeter in one tool. The trade-off versus the Fluke is a slightly busier interface and a build that does not feel quite as indestructible. But the measurement capability per dollar is hard to beat.
Klein MM700: the budget multimeter
If you want a traditional multimeter form factor without the Fluke price tag, the Klein MM700 is the answer. True RMS, autoranging, TRMS low impedance mode, temperature, and capacitance. It covers the core measurements an electrician needs for about $107.
It lacks the built-in NCV detector of the Fluke 117 and the current clamp of the CL800. But as a pure voltage/resistance/continuity meter at a working price point, it punches well above its weight.
Fluke 323: the Fluke clamp on a budget
The Fluke 323 is the entry-level Fluke clamp meter. True RMS, 400A AC current, AC/DC voltage, and resistance. It is simpler than the Klein CL800 — fewer modes, no DC current, no temperature — but it carries the Fluke name, Fluke build quality, and Fluke calibration confidence.
At $169, it sits between the Klein CL800 and the Fluke 117 in price. It is the right choice if you want Fluke reliability in a clamp meter and do not need every measurement mode the CL800 offers.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Fluke 117 | Klein CL800 | Klein MM700 | Fluke 323 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Type | Multimeter | Clamp Meter | Multimeter | Clamp Meter |
| Price | $250.58 | $139.96 | $107.16 | $168.88 |
| True RMS | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| AC Current | No (needs probe) | 600A | No (needs probe) | 400A |
| DC Current | No | 600A | No | No |
| NCV Built-In | Yes | No | No | No |
| Low-Z Mode | Yes | Yes | Yes | No |
| Temperature | No | Yes | Yes | No |
| Safety Rating | CAT III 600V | CAT III 600V | CAT III 600V | CAT III 600V |
The verdict
Best overall value: Klein CL800 — at $140, it does more than any other single meter in this comparison. If you can only carry one meter, this is the one.
Best premium meter: Fluke 117 — the industry standard. If your employer is paying, or you want the meter inspectors never question, this is it.
Best budget multimeter: Klein MM700 — $107 for a True RMS autoranging multimeter with low-Z mode is excellent value.
Best Fluke clamp meter: Fluke 323 — fewer features than the CL800, but Fluke quality and the 400A clamp for $169.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fluke 117 worth $250 for an electrician?
For a working electrician, yes. The Fluke 117 has non-contact voltage detection built in, True RMS for accurate readings on non-linear loads, and a CAT III 600V safety rating. It is the most commonly specified meter in commercial electrical work and the one most inspectors recognize immediately.
Can the Klein CL800 replace a Fluke?
For many electricians, yes. The CL800 is a clamp meter with True RMS, TRMS low impedance mode, and measures AC/DC current up to 600A without breaking the circuit. At roughly half the price of a Fluke 117, it offers more measurement modes. The trade-off is brand cachet and slightly lower build quality.
Do I need a clamp meter or a multimeter?
Most electricians carry both eventually. A standard multimeter (like the Fluke 117 or Klein MM700) is better for voltage and resistance measurements. A clamp meter (like the Klein CL800 or Fluke 323) lets you measure current without disconnecting wires. If you can only buy one, a clamp meter with multimeter functions like the CL800 covers more ground.
What CAT rating do I need for electrical work?
CAT III 600V is the minimum for commercial and residential panel work. CAT IV 600V is needed for service entrance and utility-side work. All four meters compared here meet CAT III 600V. Check the specific model for CAT IV ratings if you work at the service entrance.
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