Fluke 87v Digital Multimeter - Review

I’m a curious person by nature, and interested in all sorts of gadgets, gizmos, tools, and equipment.  Perhaps that’s why I now write product reviews and articles for various websites and online publications.

As I was recently doing some product research online, I came across several different electrical testing devices made by Fluke Corporation. I thought Fluke a rather odd name for a product. I had never heard of that brand before, but apparently a lot of other people have, as there was a lot of the positive feedback from so many users.

One of the Fluke products that caught my eye was the Fluke 87v digital multimeter. My curiosity getting the better of me, I decided to “investigate” this product a little further. Most of the online reviews I found were either too long and technical, or too short and lacking in details, so I decided to write one of my own. 

I’ve written a concise and non-technical product review of the Fluke 87v that I hope will give you the information to make an informed buying decision.

Is the Fluke 87v the perfect tool?

Both product reviews and customer reviews of The Fluke 87v (87-5) digital multimeter are overwhelmingly positive. After reading many of them, I came away with the impression that the Fluke 87v may be the perfect tool for testing motor drives, power distribution, electro-mechanical equipment, and in plant automation.

Why is it so good? Because it offers an outstanding range of useful features that will help maximize your productivity and efficiency on the job. The Fluke 87-5 is an easy-to-use testing device that is jam packed with problem solving power, safety features, and rugged durability. And you can be sure the quality is good because it is made in the U.S.A.

Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout features of this device…

Problem Solving Power

It’s a versatile “True-RMS” meter that is perfect for using in professional situations on the job, as well as around-the-house. True RMS (root mean square) means this instrument has the capability to accurately measure the value of AC voltage by converting the signal into a direct current signal of equal value. With True-RMS AC voltage for dependable accuracy, and a selectable filter that ensures the correct voltage, the Fluke 87v will take measurements that are accurate to 0.05% DC.

For maximum flexibility, this meter has auto and manual ranging, and can measure frequencies to 200 kHz, as well as conducting resistance, continuity, and diode tests. It records Min/Max/Average and has a Min/Max alert that automatically captures measurement variations.

The Fluke 87V is specifically designed to accurately measure adjustable speed drives. Now you can take the guesswork out of troubleshooting drive systems and correctly measure pulse-width modulated motor drive signals each and every time.

It has a peak capture function to record transients as fast as 250 µs. The analog bar graph allows for measurement of quick-changing or unstable signals.

The Relative Mode removes test lead interference from low-ohms measurements.

Safety Features will Enhance Your Productivity

No need to squint or strain your eyes anymore when trying to read the display. A large two-level backlit display makes it easy to see the digital readout in virtually any lighting condition.

You can take temperature readings with the built in thermometer. This means you won’t need to carry a separate instrument to measure temps inside an air conditioner or refrigerator.

To warn against using the input jacks incorrectly, or obtaining faulty readings, an input alert provides an audible warning signal.

With the ToolPak, an optional magnetic hanger that is sold separately, you can set up your Fluke 87-5 to be viewed hands-free so you can use your hands for other tasks.

Durable Design

The tightly sealed design provides shock protection for when the unit is dropped or subjected to impact damage.

A battery access door enables you to change batteries quickly without breaking the calibration seal. And a selectable sleep mode helps increase the battery life.

Inputs are protected to Category III, 1000 V, and Category IV, 600 V. This helps reduce risks caused by surges and spikes, as well as withstanding impulses exceeding 8,000 volts.

It is independently tested to comply with ANSI/ISA S82.01 and EN61010-1 standards.

Does it include a Warranty?

The Fluke 87v multimeter is made in the U.S.A, and backed by a lifetime warranty.

What's Included:

The 87v multimeter comes with a removable holster, AC72 alligator clips, a built-in temperature probe and test-lead storage, TL75 test leads and a nine volt battery.
“Getting Started” manual; CD with detailed manual

What Users are Saying about it

Customers at Amazon.com have given this product very positive reviews, with an overall rating of 5 out of 5 Stars. Here is a sample of some of the comments:

• “Absolutely Top Quality”  
• “Best Multimeter I've owned”  
• “Nearly perfect multimeter”  
• “Excellent quality as always“  
• “Top notch!”  
• “Completely Satisfied”  

Are There Any Complaints?

I looked far and wide for complaints about the Fluke 87v multimeter, and found none of any significance. In fact, only one Amazon reviewer gave the product less than 5 stars, but then wrote that “This instrument is one that I have used, and really is the tool that all the Engineers ought to have, and use.” With that kind of comment, I’m not really sure why the user gave only a 3-star rating.

Other than that, about the only negative thing on some forums were a couple of people who thought the price was a little high for their budget. But they then went on to say that Fluke products were a great value, and actually well worth the price.

Read the reviews for the Fluke 87-5 Digital Multimeter here.

How Much Does it Cost?

If you are ready to buy your own Fluke 87v Multimeter at a great price, I recommend that you check at Amazon.com first.  You will get free "Super Saver Shipping" on this order, or  if you have a Prime membership, you will get free 2nd Day shipping.  Although you can find this tool at other online stores, I have found that Amazon consistently has the lowest price.