Known for their durability, accuracy, and user-friendly design, Fluke multimeters have become a staple in the toolkits of professionals and hobbyists alike. Today, we’re diving into an in-depth comparison of two popular models from this renowned brand: the Fluke 101 vs Fluke 107.
The Fluke 101 and 107 are both compact, feature-rich digital multimeters designed to meet your electrical and electronic testing needs. They share a family resemblance, but each has its own personality.
The Fluke 101, for instance, is known for its robustness and simplicity, making it an excellent choice for beginners and for basic tasks. The Fluke 107, on the other hand, boasts more advanced features, including accurate measurements, a larger white LED backlight, and an automatic shutoff feature, making it a versatile tool for more complex projects.
In this article, we will dive deep into Fluke 101 vs 107 multimeters, comparing their features, performance, and more. So, let’s roll up our sleeves and get started!
Fluke 101 Multimeter Overview
The Fluke 101 is like the trusty pocket knife of multimeters – compact, lightweight, and perfect for everyday use and basic electrical tests. Its small size makes it a breeze to use with just one hand, and its rugged build ensures it can stand up to the test of time.
Don’t let its size fool you, though. This little multimeter is packed with handy features. It comes with a diode and continuity test with a buzzer, a data hold button to freeze your readings on the screen, and an auto power-off feature to save battery life. Plus, it’s safety rated to CATIII, 600 V, giving you peace of mind when using it.
The Fluke 101 is a jack of all trades when it comes to measurements. It can measure voltage, resistance, capacitance, and frequency. However, it doesn’t have the ability to measure current, which might be a deal-breaker for some. It’s an auto-ranging multimeter, meaning it automatically selects the appropriate range for the property being measured, whether it’s AC and DC volts, resistance, frequency, or duty cycle.
One thing to note is that it doesn’t have a backlight, which can make it a bit tricky to use in low-light conditions. But don’t let this minor drawback deter you. The Fluke 101 is a reliable, accurate, and versatile tool that’s perfect for anyone who needs a basic multimeter for everyday use. And the cherry on top? It’s quite affordable, making it a fantastic choice for those on a budget.
Features
- Compact and lightweight, designed for single-handed use
- Rugged and durable design, built to last
- Safety rated to CATIII, 600 V
- Diode/continuity test with buzzer
- DC volts accuracy: 0.5%
- Data hold button and auto power-off
- Size: 5.1″ (130mm) x 2.6″ (65mm) x 1.1″ (27mm)
- Weight: 5.6oz (160g)
- Can measure voltage, resistance, capacitance, and frequency
- No current measurement capabilities
- Auto-ranging on AC and DC volts, resistance, frequency, and duty cycle
- Battery life around 200 hours
Pros
- Compact
- Reliable
- Accurate
- Versatile
- Affordable
Cons
- No backlight
- Slow auto-ranging
Fluke 107 Multimeter Overview
The Fluke 107 is a compact, sleek multimeter that’s packed with features. It can measure AC/DC voltage and current, resistance, capacitance, frequency, and duty cycle, and it also has a continuity and diode checker. The display is backlit and features a data hold function, and the multimeter automatically turns off to save battery life.
The Fluke 107 is a bit larger than a pocket multimeter, but it’s still compact and easy to handle. It’s built to last, with a solid case, dial, and buttons, and it comes with a magnetic strap that can be used as a stand. The multimeter is also fused and can handle 6kV surges, making it safe to use in a variety of situations.
Despite its many features, the Fluke 107 does have a few drawbacks. It doesn’t have a manual range function, it doesn’t have a Min/Max function, and it doesn’t have a low current input. However, these are minor issues that don’t detract from the overall quality and functionality of the multimeter.
Features
- Measures AC/DC voltage and current
- Measures resistance and capacitance
- Measures frequency and duty cycle
- Continuity and diode checker
- Backlit display with data hold
- Auto off
- Size: 142mm x 69mm x 28mm
- Weight: 200g
- Auto-ranging
- Battery life of approximately 200 hours
- Comes with a magnetic strap
Pros
- Compact
- Solid build
- Good input protection
- Backlit screen
Cons
- No manual range
- Expensive
Fluke 101 vs 107 Multimeter – Specifications
| Specification | Fluke 101 | Fluke 107 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | 160g | 200g |
| Size | 130mm x 65mm) x 27mm | 142mm x 69mm x 28mm |
| Safety Rating | CATIII 600 V | CAT-III 600V |
| Backlit Display | ❌ | ✔ |
| Auto Power-Off | ✔ | ✔ |
| Auto-Ranging | ✔ | ✔ |
| Data Hold | ✔ | ✔ |
| AC/DC Voltage Measurement | ✔ | ✔ |
| AC/DC Current Measurement | ❌ | ✔ |
| Duty Cycle Measurement | ❌ | ✔ |
| Resistance Measurement | ✔ | ✔ |
| Capacitance Measurement | ✔ | ✔ |
| Frequency Measurement | ✔ | ✔ |
| Continuity and Diode Checker | ✔ | ✔ |
| Battery Life | Around 200 hours | Around 200 hours |
| Manual Ranging | ❌ | ❌ |
| Low Current Input | ❌ | ❌ |
Comparing the Fluke 101 vs 107 Multimeter
Similarities
Both the Fluke 101 and 107 are compact and lightweight, making them easy to handle and use. They both have a rugged and durable design, ensuring they can withstand regular use over a long period.
In terms of functionality, both multimeters can measure voltage, resistance, capacitance, and frequency. They both have a continuity and diode checker, a data hold function, and an auto power-off feature to save battery life.
Both models are also auto-ranging, meaning they automatically select the appropriate operating range for the measured property. They both have a safety rating of CATIII at 600V, making them safe to use in a variety of situations.
Differences
While the Fluke 101 and 107 share many similarities, there are also some key differences between the two models.
One of the main differences is that Fluke 107 can measure current while Fluke 101 cannot. This makes the Fluke 107 more versatile and suitable for a wider range of tasks.
Another significant difference is the display. The Fluke 107 has a backlit display, making it easier to read in low-light conditions. The Fluke 101, on the other hand, does not have a backlight.
In terms of size and weight, the Fluke 107 is slightly larger and heavier than the Fluke 101. However, both models are still compact and lightweight compared to many other multimeters on the market.
Detailed Comparison of the Fluke 101 and 107
Now, let’s compare each in a fully detailed way to understand these models better.
Measurement Capabilities
The Fluke 101 and 107 are both powerhouses regarding their measurement capabilities. They’re equipped to measure voltage, resistance, capacitance, and frequency, making them versatile tools for a wide array of electrical tasks.
However, the Fluke 107 pulls ahead with its ability to measure current. This additional feature opens up a broader range of applications, especially for those who need to perform more intricate electrical tests.
So, if your work or projects often require current measurement, the Fluke 107 would be the more suitable choice.
Design and Durability
Fluke’s reputation for producing rugged and durable multimeters is well-earned, and the 101 and 107 models are perfect examples of this.
They’re built to last, capable of withstanding the demands of regular use, whether in a professional setting or a hobbyist’s workspace. However, there are slight differences in their design. The Fluke 107 is a bit larger and heavier than the 101.
While this difference is minimal, if you value portability and often need to carry your multimeter around, you might find the smaller and lighter Fluke 101 more convenient.
Ease of Use
Both Fluke 101 and 107 are designed with the user in mind. They feature auto-ranging, a function that automatically selects the appropriate operating range for the property being measured.
This feature simplifies operation, saving you time and making the multimeters more user-friendly. However, the Fluke 107 offers additional convenience with its backlit display, which enhances readability in low-light conditions.
This feature could be a game-changer if your work often takes you to dimly lit environments.
Safety Ratings
When it comes to electrical tools, safety is paramount. Fluke 101 and 107 excel in this aspect, boasting a safety rating of CATIII 600V. This rating indicates that they’re designed to withstand significant voltage and are safe for use in various environments, including commercial and high-voltage industrial settings.
This high safety standard provides peace of mind, knowing that you’re using a tool designed with safety as a priority.
User Reviews and Feedback
User reviews and feedback provide valuable insights into a product’s performance in real-world scenarios. Both Fluke 101 and 107 have garnered positive feedback from users.
The Fluke 101 is often commended for its reliability, accuracy, and simplicity, making it an excellent choice for beginners and those who need a straightforward, reliable multimeter for everyday tasks.
Conversely, the Fluke 107 is lauded for its advanced features and versatility, making it a preferred tool for more complex projects and professional applications.
Price Comparison
The Fluke 101, priced at around $50, is generally more affordable than the Fluke 107, which is priced at around $98. This price difference is understandable, considering the additional features that the Fluke 107 offers.
However, both multimeters offer excellent value for their price, given their robust design, versatility, and the reputation of the Fluke brand.
Who Should Choose the Fluke 101?
The Fluke 101 is a reliable workhorse perfect for those needing a straightforward, easy-to-use multimeter for everyday tasks. Its simplicity, combined with its robustness and accuracy, makes it an excellent choice for beginners in the field of electronics or DIY enthusiasts who need a dependable tool for their projects.
If you’re a student starting your journey in electronics, Fluke 101 is a great learning companion. It provides all the basic measurement capabilities you need without the complexity of advanced features that you might not use at this stage.
Similarly, if you’re a hobbyist or a DIY enthusiast who regularly tackles tasks like checking batteries, troubleshooting electrical problems around the house, or working on small electronics projects, the Fluke 101 would serve you well.
In a professional setting, the Fluke 101 could be a handy tool for technicians or maintenance personnel who need a reliable multimeter for basic electrical tests. Its simplicity and reliability make it a trusted tool to get the job done.
Who Should Choose the Fluke 107?
The Fluke 107 is a more advanced multimeter, perfect for those who need to perform more complex electrical tests. Its ability to measure current, along with its backlit display and other advanced features, make it a versatile tool for a wider range of tasks.
The Fluke 107 could be a valuable addition to your toolkit if you’re an electrician or a professional technician. Its advanced features would allow you to tackle more complex tasks, while its rugged design and high safety rating ensure it can withstand the demands of a professional environment.
For educators or trainers in electronics, the Fluke 107 could be an excellent teaching tool. Its advanced features would allow you to demonstrate a wider range of concepts and tests, making it a valuable aid in a learning environment.
Finally, if you’re a serious electronics hobbyist or a DIY enthusiast who regularly works on complex projects, the Fluke 107 would be a worthy investment. Its versatility and advanced features would allow you to take on more challenging tasks, pushing the boundaries of what you can achieve with your projects.
The Verdict: Fluke 101 vs 107
After a detailed comparison of the Fluke 101 and 107, it’s clear that both multimeters have their strengths and are designed to cater to different needs and preferences.
The Fluke 101, with its simplicity and robustness, is an excellent choice for beginners, students, and DIY enthusiasts who need a reliable, easy-to-use tool for everyday tasks. It’s a no-frills, straightforward multimeter that does its job well, and its lower price point makes it a great value option.
On the other hand, the Fluke 107, with its advanced features and ability to measure current, is a versatile tool suited for more complex tasks. It’s a worthy investment for professionals, educators, and serious hobbyists who need a more sophisticated multimeter.
The price difference of $48 might seem substantial, but it’s important to consider what you’re getting for that extra investment. If you’re likely to use the additional features that Fluke 107 offers, then the extra cost could be justified.
In my opinion, if you’re just starting out or if your tasks are relatively simple, the Fluke 101 would serve you well. However, if you’re a professional or a serious hobbyist who regularly tackles more complex projects, the Fluke 107 would be a more suitable choice.
