Fluke 87v or Fluke 83 - Which Model is the Best?

By Jose Sanborn

Of all the Fluke digital multimeters that you can buy, a lot of people choose either the Fluke 83 or the Fluke 87v. Many of their features coincide with one another, but in my opinion, one of them comes out on top. If you are looking for the best multimeter, this article provides you with some information to help you compare the differences between the Fluke 83 and the Fluke 87v multimeters.

Some Differences Between the Fluke 87v and Fluke 83

First, the Fluke 87v digital multimeter is a true RMS device capable of giving you true RMS AC voltage and current for the most accurate measurements when you are working with non-linear signals. The Fluke 83 on the other hand, is not capable of giving you measurements like these.

The 87 also gives you a selectable filter when you are measuring frequency and voltage on motor drives as well as 0.05% DC accuracy. In fact, the Fluke 87 gives you the best DC accuracy out of any Fluke handheld multimeter on the market. Perhaps that is one of the reasons why the 87v model it is one of the most popular multimeters in use today.

The Fluke 87 is also superior to the 83 in that it has a built-in thermometer probe. The 87 model is one of the very few multimeters to offer this feature. The 87 has a 4-1/2 digit mode for incredibly precise measurements of 20,000 counts.

Some Similarities between the Fluke 87v and Fluke 83

It should be noted that the 83 and the 87 models are not different in all aspects.  Here are some of the similarities:

1. Both of them have a standard display of 6000 counts (3-3/4 digits).

2. They can also both measure up to 1000 volts in both AC and in DC as well as measure up to 20 Amps for up to 30 whole seconds.

3. The similarities continue when you consider that both models include resistance, continuity and diode test, and a 10,000 µF capacitance range for motor and other components.

4. Many users really appreciate the fact that both of these Fluke Digital Multimeters are able to record minimums, maximums, and averages.

5. They both also have the ability to alert you to variations in the minimum and maximum of your measurements.

6. Both units use a very large display with easy to read digits on a large screen.

7. In addition, both the 87v and 83 model screens include a very bright backlight so you can read your measurements in dimly lit conditions.

8. Both models come with a lifetime warranty from Fluke.

Finally, while there certainly are a number of similarities between the two modes, the fact that the 87v provides greater DC accuracy at ±0.05%, and includes an attached thermometer probe to take quick temperature readings gives the edge to the 87v multimeter.  If you are still debating which one to buy, the overall advantages of the Fluke 87v should help make your decision on which one to buy much easier.