We got our hands on the Fluke 117 multimeter for a few electrical projects, and honestly, it left a pretty good impression. It’s sturdy, feels solid in your hand, and the controls are straightforward—no need to flip through a thick manual just to get started.
The non-contact voltage detection was genuinely handy for quick checks. It saved us a bunch of time, especially when tracing live wires in cramped spots.
We found the readings to be accurate and consistent, even when switching between AC and DC voltage. The backlight is bright enough to see clearly in dim corners, which definitely helps.
One thing to watch out for: some counterfeit versions are floating around online. It’s worth sticking with a trusted seller if you’re thinking about buying one.
- VoltAlert technology for non-contact voltage detection
- AutoVolt automatic AC/DC voltage selection. DC millivolts - Range : 600.0 mV, Resolution : 0.1 mV
- Low input impedance: helps prevent false readings due to ghost voltage
- Large white LED backlight to work in poorly lit areas
- True RMS for accurate measurements on non-linear loads. Operating temperature: -10°C to +50°C. Battery life: 400 hours typical, without backlight
Overview of the Fluke 117 Digital Multimeter
We found this meter to be solid and reliable for regular electrical tasks. It’s got a tough build, and those rubber edges help with grip and keep it safe from drops.
The backlight is a real plus in low-light spots. Non-contact voltage detection works quickly and adds some peace of mind.
The AutoVolt feature is smart—it switches between AC and DC automatically, so you’re not fiddling with settings. The low impedance mode cuts down on false readings, which we noticed when poking around old wiring.
A couple of things we didn’t love: the screen feels a bit small, and the leads are on the stiff side. Still, the True RMS accuracy and the clear readings make it a dependable pick for both pros and DIY folks.
Pros: easy to use, accurate, rugged
Cons: small display, stiff leads
Non-Contact Voltage Detection
We tried the voltage detection in different outlets and junction boxes, and it picked up live wires every time. The VoltAlert sensor made it safer and sped things up since we didn’t have to touch anything.
The indicator light and beep are hard to miss—even if there’s a lot of background noise. The only hiccup: it can be a bit too sensitive near bundles of cables, giving mixed signals now and then.
Pros:
- Finds live voltage without contact
- Good alerts, both visual and sound
Cons:
- Can be a bit jumpy in crowded wiring
It’s a feature that really boosts confidence when you’re double-checking live circuits.
True RMS Measurement
The True RMS function stood out right away. It gave us accurate readings even on noisy or mixed signals, which isn’t always the case with cheaper meters.
We tried it on circuits with variable loads, and the numbers stayed steady. Other meters we’ve used tend to jump around a bit more.
This is super useful for checking modern electronics or power supplies. Saves time—you don’t have to double-check with another tool.
The only thing we noticed was a slight lag on the display with unstable signals. Not a huge deal, but it’s there.
Pros:
- Accurate on non-linear loads
- Results stay steady in real-world tests
Cons:
- Slight delay when readings are changing fast
AutoVolt Automatic AC/DC Voltage Selection
The AutoVolt feature is a time-saver. It automatically senses whether you’re measuring AC or DC voltage, so you don’t have to stop and dial in the right setting.
During our tests, the meter picked up the voltage type right away and showed the correct value. Made it easier to bounce between outlets and devices.
If you want to lock in a specific mode for troubleshooting, AutoVolt can feel a little too automatic. But for most jobs, it’s a real convenience.
Pros:
- Quick voltage detection
- Less fiddling with settings
Cons:
- Not as much manual control for advanced users
Low Impedance Mode
The low impedance mode actually makes a difference, especially in places with older wiring. It helps filter out ghost voltage, which can be a pain when you’re trying to get reliable numbers.
Compared to meters without this feature, the 117 gave us steadier readings. No need to keep retesting the same spot.
This mode does put a slight load on the circuit, so it’s best for when you really need accuracy.
Pros:
- Cuts down on false readings
- Boosts confidence in your measurements
Cons:
- Adds a tiny delay when switching modes
LED Backlight for Low-Light Environments
Working in dark spots is a lot easier with the 117’s bright LED backlight. We tried it in a basement panel where you could barely see, and the screen was still clear.
The light is even across the display, which helps if you’re staring at it for a while. Just know that running the backlight eats up battery life a bit faster, so turn it off if you don’t need it.
Pros:
- Easy to read in the dark
- Even brightness across the screen
Cons:
User Experience in Professional Settings
Day to day, the meter felt steady and reliable. The screen stays readable in dim spaces, and the backlight makes quick checks in panels much simpler.
Electricians and techs like the non-contact voltage detection for saving time. The low impedance mode also helps cut down on false readings in complex systems.
It does feel a bit heavy after a long day, but that solid construction gives you confidence around gear. Again, watch out for counterfeits—buy from a reputable place.
The Fluke 117 holds up well in pro settings. It’s accurate, tough, and straightforward, which is what you want for regular electrical work.
Pros and Cons
We’ve been using this meter for a few weeks, so here’s what stood out.
Pros
- Accurate and Reliable: Readings are consistent and trustworthy, even across different circuits. True RMS works well for all kinds of loads.
- Easy to Use: Auto AC/DC selection is a real time-saver. Less messing around with the dial means fewer mistakes.
- Non-Contact Voltage Detection: VoltAlert is great for quick checks—no need to touch live wires. Makes troubleshooting safer.
- Durable Build: The tough casing and rubber edges help it survive the daily grind. Ours took a couple knocks in the tool bag without a scratch.
- Good Visibility: The backlight is bright enough for dark basements and panels.
| What We Liked Most | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| AutoVolt function | Makes switching between AC and DC easy |
| Low input impedance | Reduces ghost voltage errors |
| Long battery life | Fewer changes needed during busy weeks |
Cons
- Slightly Heavy: It’s bulkier than some smaller meters, which might bug you if you’re carrying it around all day.
- Price Point: It’s pricier than basic models, so it’s probably better for serious users.
- Display Glare: The screen can catch glare from overhead lights at certain angles.
- Rare Quality Issues: Some folks got defective or fake units from third-party sellers. Stick with trusted sources.
Customer Reviews
Most people call this meter dependable and precise. Users like how solid it feels and how it stands up to regular use.
The backlight and non-contact voltage detection are big favorites for quick checks in dark spaces.
From what we’ve seen, the Fluke 117 gets a lot of love for accuracy and ease of use. Both pros and hobbyists say it works well for all kinds of electrical jobs.
There are a few complaints about counterfeits, so buying from a verified seller matters. Still, with an average rating of 4.8 out of 5 from nearly 5,000 reviews, most folks seem pretty happy with it.
