Clamp Meter vs Multimeter

Clamp meters and multimeters are both tools for measuring current in a conductor, but they differ in their measurement techniques and applications. A clamp meter measures current by clamping around a conductor, while a multimeter measures current by breaking the circuit and placing the instrument in series with the conductor. The choice between the two depends on the specific needs of the user, including the application, accuracy required, and level of safety needed.

• A multimeter is the best option if various electrical tests (i.e. resistance and voltage tests) need to be carried out and highly accurate results are necessary. If the purpose is to test currents across the property, a clamp meter is better.
• If safety is the primary concern while performing a current measurement, it is advisable to use a clamp meter.

What are clamp meters and multimeters?

Clamp meters and multimeters both measure electrical parameters. A clamp meter measures current without interrupting the circuit, making this tool ideal for taking measurements in tight spaces or testing live wires. Multimeters can measure current, voltage, and resistance and are more accurate than clamp meters. Learn more about each tool by reading our clamp meter and multimeter overview articles.

Comparison between clamp meters and multimeters

Table 1: Clamp meter vs multimeter

	Clamp meter	Multimeter
Measurement parameters	Basic clamp meters measure high AC or AC/DC Higher-end clamp meters can measure lower currents, making them more precise Higher-end clamp meters also have leads to measure voltage, resistance, and continuity like multimeters do	Measures voltage, current, resistance, frequency, and temperature
Mode of measurement	Jaws open to clamp around the conductor, creating a full circle around the conductor. Uses magnetic induction to measure the current in the conductor.	Leads connect in series to the conductor. Therefore, it is dangerous to measure a live current with a multimeter.
Accuracy and resolution	Lower resolution due to never contacting the conductor. Useful for general purposes, though.	Measures various electrical parameters to relatively high accuracy and resolution.
Safety and ease of use	Safer for measuring live currents, more portable, and easier to operate	Risk of electrocution when measuring live current, fairly portable but requires more time and effort to take measurements
Applications	Measuring high-level current Troubleshooting installation problems Conducting circuit tests Used extensively in HVAC and residential electrical systems	Diagnose electrical problems on motors, circuits, power supplies, and switches Used when high accuracy is necessary