Rating of the best ammeters in 2022

In this article, we will provide recommendations on how to choose the right current meter, talk about popular models, the best manufacturers in the Russian market, well-known brands, decide where and which company is the best device to buy, at the best price.

Today, in electrical stores you can find many types of equipment, with various functions, the purpose of our review is to understand what design features they come with, determine the characteristics you need, so as not to make a mistake when choosing.

An ammeter is a tool for measuring the strength of an electric current. In principle, its operation is nothing complicated, usually it consists of a galvanometer with a low resistance shunt resistor connected in parallel.

During construction or repair, multimeters are used in which you can switch between amperes, volts, ohms.

Description of ammeters

For more than a hundred years, the field of application of the galvanometer has been the study of electrical networks, its functionality is limited to a small measurement limit. To explore high performance without destroying the winding, the mechanical elements of the apparatus add a "shunt" that provides reduced resistance. It is located in parallel with the circuit of the device, a significant part of the electrons pass through it. This combination of elements gave rise to a new instrument known as the ammeter.

The number of electrons passing through the shunt connection is proportional to their total number in the system, this allows you to record extreme performance without destroying the equipment. The ammeter got its name from the unit of measurement of the same name.

To detect electricity in the network below 1 A, millimeters, micrometers, nanometers, or picoammeters are used, depending on the magnitude.

The operation of the device is based on the principle of electromagnetism, which states that any charged particle that passes through a wire creates a magnetic field around it.

The device is always installed in series with the element to be examined. It is important to note that the influence of the internal voltage, the resistance of the device should be minimal.

Types of ammeters

Depending on the design, the scope of the product, there are several types of it.Let's look at what you should pay attention to, what selection criteria to rely on when buying one or another option.

Analog Devices

This outdated, pointer apparatus with a scale is still widely used for research, for example, a shield ammeter used to study three-, single-phase AC networks. Such devices are divided into two groups, differing in the mechanism that drives the indicator pointer:

• electromechanical products;
• thermal devices.

Although thermal instruments have largely fallen into disuse, they are a large subgroup that includes various types of ammeters. Let's look at it in more detail:

1. Electromechanical devices

The operation of these devices is based on the mechanical interaction between current and magnetic field or electrified conductors. They consist of a fixed and movable element attached to an arrow that indicates the value on a scale.

Like all devices of this type, they are bulky, subject not only to component wear, but also to large errors in research. However, readings are fast, so the products are useful as stationary measuring elements. Among these tools are the following:

• Magnetoelectric with frame, voice coils. They consist of a magnet, a moving frame or a coil that rotates under the action of an "Ampere" force. The spiral on the axis of the frame prevents its rotation. The more intense the electrons flowing through the frame, the greater the angle of its rotation. As a result, the arrow attached to this structure moves along the scale.The popularity of these models is ensured by high accuracy, sensitivity, but they only work in DC circuits.
• Electromagnetic devices consist of an indicator needle attached to a magnet inside a coil. When electrons flow through it, a field is created that causes the magnet to be attracted or repelled.
• Ferromagnetic devices consist of a fixed coil, inside which is a curved sheet of soft iron. The movable part is another, the same plate, it is attached to the steel shaft of the indicator arrow. When the circuit closes, both plates turn into magnets, they begin to repel each other with a force proportional to the intensity of the current. The amplitude of the movement of the arrow depends on the number of electrons flowing through the coil. These devices have an important advantage, they serve DC, AC networks.
• Electrodynamic devices consist of two coils that create magnetic fields, one of them is stationary, the other is movable. The reaction between them provides a deflection compensated by the coil springs. Such a unit is the best option for researching AC, DC networks.

In the corner of the display of each device there is a marking that allows you to distinguish an ammeter with a moving element from an electrodynamic one, or to determine in which networks it can be used.

2. Thermal ammeters

The operation of these products is based on the principle of expansion of conductors when heated. It is proportional to the temperature, and in accordance with the Joule law, the amount of heat generated is proportional to the square of the current strength. Devices are used in any networks.

The advantage of thermal devices is that they are not affected by external magnetic fields, they can be mounted on a DIN rail. However, the high energy consumption required to heat the conductor, the high cost of these devices makes them unprofitable for widespread use.

3. Digital ammeters

Technological advances of our time have brought to the market electronic devices with a high degree of versatility and performance. With digital instruments, reading errors are eliminated because data is displayed on the screen and moving mechanical parts are replaced by circuits, wear and tear is minimized, they are convenient to use, portable, and made from modern materials.

The two most well-known instruments in this category are the multimeter, the amperometric clamp. Both models are available in analog and digital versions, relatively inexpensive, the latter being the most popular:

• The amperometric clamp is a useful tool because it instantly measures the intensity of AC, DC without opening, breaking the circuit.

The device is powered solely by the magnetic field generated by electricity, and since it does not have a braid, it cannot burn. The product is easy to use, the clips are triggered by moderate finger pressure, they close with the effort of only one hand. The device can explore AC, DC. The device is actively used in the automotive industry.

Where could I buy

Chinese and Russian-made ammeters are sold in specialized electrical stores, managers will give you advice on which of the new products to purchase, orient you at an average price, and suggest a budget model.

You can order the model you like online, in the online store, on AliExpress and other sites.

Rating of quality ammeters for 2022

Our list is based on real reviews, takes into account the opinion of buyers who purchased ammeters for personal use. It provides a description of analog, digital devices.

Analog instruments

Such devices have mechanical parts in their design: magnets, coils with indicator needles.

EA2265

5th place is occupied by a laboratory apparatus that serves to determine the standard deviation of the AC force, sine waveform, and industrial frequency. The device is used for calibration of less accurate instruments, verification during testing.

The design of EA2265 includes:

• magnetoelectric DC rectifier with a movable element on extensions;
• arrow with anti-parallax device;
• measuring scale, the length of which is 15 cm.

Unit features:

• no energy source needed;
• the value of the internal resistance of the device does not affect the order of its operation;
• you can connect external transformers, expanding the measurement range;
• the design of the indicator needle (arrow pointer) provides accurate readings.

The devices are manufactured in 2 accuracy classes: 0.2 or 0.5. By agreement with the buyer, units of other ranges are supplied.

Certification details:

• GOST 8711, GOST R 51522-99 (IEC 61326-97), GOST R 51350-99 (IEC 61010-90), GOST R 51317.4.2-99, GOST 51317.4.3-99;
• TU 4224-014-05798310-2001;
• number of the license agreement of the State Standard of the Russian Federation No. 002643-IR dated 26.12. 2003
• declaration of conformity No. ROSS RU.ME72.D00027 dated September 30, 2004

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Accuracy class	0.2 or 0.5
Measurement limits (two measuring ranges in one instrument)	0.5 and 1 A; 10 and 20 A; 5 and 10 A; 2.5 and 5 A
Temperature	from 10 to 35 °C
Relative Humidity	80% at 20°
dimensions	243 x 200 x 100 mm
Weight	no more than 3 kg

• delivery within 7 days;
• the ability to pay online (Visa, Mastercard, Maestro, Mir, Apple Pay and Google Pay) or upon receipt;
• up to a year warranty;
• works with current in the range from 0 to 100% of the scale;
• not a lot of internal resistance of the product.

• susceptible to vibrations, shocks, requires installation in a horizontal plane;
• Reading is difficult in bright light.

А72 100А/5А-1.5 | SQ1102-0054 TDM ELECTRIC

On the 4th place in our list is low-voltage equipment installed in a shield. The design of the device includes a transformer, a moving coil, which provides a measurement range of 0-100 A. The built-in model from TDM ELECTRIC is calibrated, used in AC (variable) networks, has an accuracy class of at least 1.5

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Model	Embedded
Width	7.2 cm
Height	72 mm
Voltage type	AC (variable)
Modular design	-
Calibrated	+
Accuracy class	0.5
Set of indicators	-
Scale illumination	-
Via current transformer	+
Measuring system	moving coil
Rated final scale value	100 A
Overcurrent scale	+
Max. deviation of the instrument pointer	90 °
Measuring range	0 ... 100 A

• simple, reliable design;
• acceptable price;

• not detected.

M42100 75-0-75A

3rd place - M42100 - a high-precision product used by DC networks. Devices M42100, M42101 are produced with accuracy classes 1.5 or 2.5.

Operating features:

• resistance to environmental conditions in accordance with GOST 22261-76;
• application temperature from -50 ºС to 60 °С, at
• at humidity 95%, +35°С;
• the device is resistant to mechanical stress.

The operation of the M42100 is based on the interaction of a magnetic field with one or more cores. The stationary and active parts of the structure are magnetized with the same sign (plus or minus), then they repel each other, the arrow fixed on the movable element moves.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Accuracy class	1,5; 2,5
Basic error	±1,5; ±2,5 %
Variation	2,25%-3,75%
Pointer not returning to zero	1.0-1.7mm
Permissible change in readings per 10 K	±0,8 %-±1,2 %
Rest of the moving part	no more than 3 s
dimensions	80x80x50mm
Weight	0.2 kg

• price quality.

• not detected.

A72P 30A-1.5

On the 2nd place is an ammeter designed to study single-phase, low-voltage AC networks in residential, public or industrial buildings.

The device is registered with the state verification bodies (CN.C.34.004.A No. 36109), there are corresponding marks in the passport, on the case.

A protective transparent cover, made of non-flammable plastic, insulating external clamps, provides fire and electrical safety, and a metal shield prevents the negative effects of magnetic fields. The equipment is switched on in a direct way.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Ammeter	For installation in a shield
Measuring system	moving coil
Measuring range	0 ... 30 A
Via current transformer	-
Accuracy class	0.5
Voltage type	AC (variable)
Calibrated	+
Model/Version	Embedded
Width	72 mm
Height	72 mm
Ratedfinal scale value	30 A
Overcurrent scale	+
Modular design	-
Max. deviation of the instrument pointer	90 °
Set of indicators	-
Scale illumination	-

• arrow adjustment;
• body can be sealed.

• not detected.

A72X/5A-1.5

1st place is confidently taken by A72 X / 5A-1.5, a device without a scale, used in single-phase, low-voltage AC networks, adapted for residential complexes or commercial real estate.

The body is made of non-combustible materials that guarantee fire safety. A72 X / 5A-1.5 is mounted in the "shield cover" through a transformer, complete with fasteners.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Cover cutout type	Square cut (68x68 mm)
Connection method	transformer
Maximum measured current, A	5-4000.
Front panel size, mm	72x72
Accuracy class	1.5
Measuring network frequency, Hz	50
Rated voltage, V	230
Mounting plane position	Vertical ±5%
Degree of protection	IP54
Weight	0.13 kg
Operating temperature range, °C	-30 to +50
Calibration interval	2 years
Average service life	12 years
Mean time between failures, not less than	50,000 hours
Guarantee period	5 years

• the indicator needle is adjusted;
• not a high price;
• reliable body.

• not detected.

Digital devices

Electronic devices do not have mechanical parts in their design, only circuits, which makes them more wear-resistant, more accurate than analog ones.

PEAKMETER PM8232

5th place in a small, compact model, convenient in everyday life, allowing you to measure many useful parameters.Comfort for users is provided by the backlight of the screen, which helps out in conditions of poor visibility, you can not only study the received data, but also examine the surrounding space. The PM8232 has a large set of indications, including the state of the device's batteries.

It is important to note that the product meets all safety requirements, is ergonomic, suitable for beginners and experienced.

The universal device can obtain the following data:

• voltage, power AC, DC;
• nominal resistance of resistors;
• ring the LEDs;
• check the network for integrity;
• you can apply the non-contact method of taking readings by bringing the device to the desired wiring, the red LED lights up;
• identify the phase cable.

The probes in the multimeter model are non-removable. PM8232 receives data automatically, making it easy for even beginners to understand the information. There is no excessive number of functions that can puzzle the owner of the device.

Two batteries are used as a power source. The place under them is covered with a lid, fixed with a screw, so the owner should not worry about losing batteries while working with the gadget. It is important to note that changing the fuses requires disassembling the case.

PM8232 stands out for its high research accuracy, more suitable for home use, not suitable for high-voltage electrical circuits, it is important to read the limitations in the instructions.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Type of	multimeter
Types of measurements of electrical circuit parameters	AC current (A~), DC current (A-), DC voltage (U-), AC voltage (U~), resistance ®
h21 transistor gain	-
Continuity Check	+
Diode test	+
Temperature measurement	-
Other tests and measurements	Non-contact voltage detection
Number of measurements per second	3
Basic error	0.8 %
Selection of measuring ranges	Manual
Display backlight	+
Food	Batteries AAAx2
Equipment	Warranty card, documentation
The weight	350 g.

• apparatus stability;
• high screen resolution;
• economical energy consumption;
• price quality;
• non-contact measurement method;
• ergonomic, durable design.

• removable probes.

Polygon A-05

On the 4th place is a digital ammeter used to measure AC indicators with a frequency of 50 Hertz. The equipment has a relay, the switching of which allows it to be used with different transformers.

The body of the product provides for mounting on a DIN rail. On the front there is a digital indicator "primary current transfer setting". The power circuit is structurally (galvanically) separated from the measuring one.

At the bottom of the case there are terminals for connecting the equipment to the network, the secondary winding of the transformer. The make-up of the product is carried out directly from the controlled system. The warranty period of the unit is 2 years, protection level - 0, EMC in accordance with GOST R50033.92. It is important to read the instruction manual before starting.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Accuracy class	1
Rated supply voltage:	220±10%
Rated mains frequency Hz	50
Indication	Seven-segment indicator
Measuring current range	0…400
Number of phases	1
Product type	Ammeter
Measurement method	Transformer current
Connection type	screw connection
Mounting method	DIN rail 35mm wide
Operating temperature range	-40…+45 °С
The weight	0.2 kg
Manufacturer's Warranty	2 year
Product manufacturer	Russia

• simple, reliable design;
• digital indicators;
• democratic price.

• not detected.

VAR-M01-083 AS20-450V UHL4

3rd place is occupied by a device designed to check the current voltage parameters in AC networks. The equipment, as the main or additional indicator, can be built into the system of automatic control, production process management.

The energy for the operation of the device is consumed from the controlled network. If the voltage has a value from 20 to 450 V, then the current indicators are displayed on the digital indicator. The parameters are taken by the non-contact method, using the built-in transformer unit.

The studied current values, the number of network outages are stored in the device's memory. The interface is logically clear, all information is displayed after pressing the corresponding buttons on the front side of the product. The memory is reset by pressing the switch key for 5 seconds.

It is important to know that the equipment controls the current data, so it is not subject to periodic verification.

Design features VAR-M01-083 AS20-450V UHL4:

• does not need operational power;
• voltage measurement (AC) 20…450V;
• precision 1.0.

The device has a plastic casing, the wires are connected from the front. Mounting is carried out using a DIN rail, 35 mm wide (GOST R IEC 60715-2003) or on a smooth surface.

The device provides the specified modes of operation under the following conditions:

• the environment should not contain a large amount of dust, explosive gases;
• vibration is not allowed, of the device attachment points, with a frequency of up to 100 Hertz, an acceleration of 9.8 m/s2;
• at a distance of less than 10 mm from the body of the unit there should be no electromagnetic fields created by a pulsed current of more than 100A;
• the device complies with GOST R 51317.4.1-2000, GOST R 51317.4.4-99, GOST R 51317.4.5-99;
• moisture on the body of the product is prohibited;
• height above sea level is not more than 2 km.

VAR-M01-083 AS20-450V UHL4 is a reliable, high-tech device for industrial and commercial areas.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Supply voltage	AC single phase
Supply voltage range AC (variable):	AC 20...450V
Supply voltage frequency (AC)	50 Hz
Measured voltage range	AC20-450V
Voltage measurement error	1% ±1 LSD
Measured current range:	0.5 - 63A
Current measurement error:	2% ±1 LSD
Current measurement method:	Contactless
Use of current transformers:	-
Cross section of connected conductors:	Not more than 2.5 sq. mm.
Degree of relay protection by housing / by terminals	GOST 14254-96; IP20
Operating temperature range:	-25…+55°С
Relative humidity:	up to 85% (at 25°С)
The weight	0.1 kg.
Dimensions (WxHxD):	35x90x63 mm
Brand	Meander
Country of origin:	Russia
Manufacturer's Warranty:	2 years
Life time:	7 years

• enters data into the device memory;
• non-contact measurement;
• corresponds to GOST.

• the device is sensitive to external influences.

ZC15400

2nd place at the digital multimeter that controls the voltage (0 - 100V). ZC15400 has a built-in 10A DC shunt, which makes it possible not to connect an external one, making it easier to explore the network, install the product.

The equipment is used in laboratory power systems, self-made chargers.The electronic display has two lines, of different colors, for displaying data. This feature of the device significantly increases the convenience in reading information.

For installation, you need to make rectangular openings in the surface where you plan to install the equipment, insert it, no additional fastening is required, the latches built into the case will hold the device in place.

The ZC15400 is powered from the network, which it diagnoses or from it. The kit includes wires for mounting the device and measuring parameters.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Working voltage	0.1-100V DC
Note	The maximum input voltage cannot exceed 100V
Operating current	≤20mA
Display	0.28" Two colors blue and red
measurement range	DC 0-100V 0-10A
Minimum resolution (V)	0.1 V
Update frequency	≥100mS/time
Measurement accuracy	0.01
Minimum resolution (A)	0.01A
Working temperature	-15 to 70°c
Operating pressure	from 80 to 106 kPa
The size	47 × 28 × 16 mm.
Net weight	19 g

• reliable design;
• simple installation.

• delay in updating data.

DIGITOP AM-2

The device DIGITOP AM-2, with an operating frequency of 50 hertz, designed for AC research, takes 1st place in the rating. It is a professional grade product with high-class accuracy, reliable, durable design, and is in demand in the market, competing with products from China.

Design features:

• error - no more than 0.5 Ampere;
• measures the frequency;
• high definition LED screen;
• indication with a dimension of 0.1 A;
• serial connection of the device to the network;
• the only entrance for measurements.

Technical indicators:

Options	Characteristics
Supply voltage	110-240VAC
Guarantee	12 months
Manufacturer	Digitop
Measured current	1 - 50 A
Operating temperature range (С°)	-10...+50
Mounting method	On Din-rail
Type of shell	3S
Dimensions(mm)	52.5x90x63
Degree of protection	IP20

• 2 year warranty;
• simple and quick installation on a standard DIN rail;

• not detected.

The choice of an ammeter, due to the increased danger of electric current to human life, must be taken especially seriously. No matter how much the product costs, you need to choose it according to the established operating regulations.

We hope the review will provide all the information so that your home is always light and warm.