Extech MN25 multimeter for less than $10

[mslim]

I threw this into an Amazon order at the last minute and was very pleased with the package when I got it. It includes a 9v battery, spare fuses, soft case, and some pretty beefy looking leads for $6.30. Don't know yet about the internal build quality but it looks and feels good for a palm sized Chinese product. Extech is owned by FLIR so I would expect customer service to be pretty good. Extech MN25

It ain't a Simpson 260 or a Fluke but for less than $10 it's worth a look.

 

[Tinner]

Thanks, the ancient meter in my work box died a while back. This should do the job.

 

[yrly]

Looks like some of the craftsman ones from the blowout sale a few months ago. Assuming it is the same I got one and it works well.

 

[shteii01]

cat 2, so not industrial rated. residential home only.

no backlight.

 

[sharkytm]

cat 2, so not industrial rated. residential home only.

no backlight.

A single HRC fuse costs more than the asking price. I'd wager the CATII rating is generous. Fine around the car or low voltage stuff, no way I'd put that thing on 120VAC.

Still a good glove box or toolbox meter.


: Edit: dug up the datasheet and it's actually UL rated. The picture just showed CE. Probably fine for non-breaker-box 120VAC, and not bad as a backup or relatives-house meter. Original MSRP was $35, I'll bet they're clearing them out.

 

[visiter555]

Thanks OP, picked up two for the toolbox for sprinkler wire/low voltage testing

 

[GTO]

Meter without any leads is @ $6.30 now

 

[pedrodagr8]

This meter is manufactured by CEM Instrument Company for Extech, Craftsman, and a number of others. I believe this model is CEM's DT-991/200 or a minor variant said model. Extech primarily uses either Uni-T or CEM as the OEM for their meters.

As for CEM, they are a Chinese meter designer and manufacturer. They the OEM for a LARGE number of companies (FLIR, Craftsman, Southwire, China-made Kleins,CommericalElectric, etc.)

As for quality, lets just say CEM is not highly thought of in the electronics community and this is one of their cheapest models. That being said, it is a step up from the harbor freight cheapies (the values don't drift when the battery gets old) and is perfectly fine for a "beater meter".

 

[unslow1]

Meter showed up today in a sealed package with leads and a 9V battery. Thanks for the heads up.