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Voltmeter vs. Multimeter: What’s the Difference?
In the battle of voltmeters vs. multimeters, the winner depends on what you’re measuring
Photo: andresr / E+ / Getty Images
Photo: andresr / E+ / Getty Images
Highlights
Voltmeters can only measure voltage, while multimeters can measure voltage, currents, and resistance.
Multimeters tend to be less compact than voltmeters due to their increased functionality.
Multimeters typically measure both AC and DC, while voltmeters usually measure one or the other.
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When comparing a voltmeter vs. multimeter, functionality and versatility are the primary differences between the two. Overall, you’ll want to choose a voltmeter if you need a simple-to-use tool and highly accurate voltage reading, or a multimeter to measure multiple elements still with a high amount of accuracy. Let’s review the differences between these two electrical tools.
What’s the Difference Between Voltmeters and Multimeters?
Both voltmeters and multimeters measure voltage, but you’ll need to understand their differences to ensure you choose the right one. Mainly, multimeters have more functionality than voltmeters, measuring current and resistance, depending on the model you buy. Consult a local electrician to determine which tool they recommend using for your electric project.
| Type of Difference | Voltmeters | Multimeters |
|---|---|---|
| Function | Measures voltage | Measures voltage, current, resistance, and more (depending on model) |
| Circuit connection | Only in parallel to the device they’re measuring | Multiple, depends on what you’re measuring |
| AC/DC Measuring | Varies by model | Yes |
| Accuracy | Highly accurate | Highly accurate, but varies by quality and design of multimeter |
| Size | Small and compact | Small, but larger than voltmeters due to multifunctionality |
Voltmeter vs. Multimeter: Difference in Usage
Photo: Westend61 / Westend61 / Getty Images
As its name suggests, voltmeters are only used to measure voltage. On the other hand, multimeters have a variety of functions, including measuring voltage, current, and resistance. That means multimeters are much more versatile tools that can be helpful in more electrical projects.
Cost Differences
Both voltmeters and multimeters come in a range of prices, with some costing less than $50 and others costing several hundred dollars, depending on their complexity and sensitivity. Most simple home projects don’t require anything more than a basic model in the $50 to $75 range.
Circuit Connection Differences
Multimeters connect in a few different ways to accommodate the type of output you are measuring (current, resistance, and continuity).
On the other hand, voltmeters, because they always measure volts, connect in parallel to the device they are measuring in order to determine the voltage. This basically means that they connect on two points of the same parallel circuit so that they can actually measure the voltage, aka the tension between the two connection points.
AC/DC Measuring Differences
Multimeters can usually measure both AC and DC, while voltmeters typically measure one or the other (though some pricier models may have both functions). If you plan to buy a voltmeter, check the packaging to make sure it can measure the type of current you need to evaluate.
Accuracy Differences
Designed only to measure voltage, voltmeters are highly accurate and give precise voltage readings. On the other hand, the accuracy of a multimeter can vary, with higher-end models typically providing the highest level of accuracy.
Size Differences
Both a multimeter and voltmeter and pretty small and intended for handheld use. However, the multimeter tends to be slightly bigger, given its additional functions. If you’re putting together a new toolbag, either one (or both) will easily fit within it.
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