Fluke 117 vs Klein MM720: Which Multimeter Is Better?
When comparing fluke 117 vs klein mm720, the biggest question is not simply which meter has more functions. The better choice depends on whether you value Fluke’s proven electrician-focused design and True-RMS performance or Klein’s broader measurement capability and value-oriented approach.
As an electrical engineer, I have spent years working around electrical panels, control circuits, industrial equipment, and troubleshooting tasks where a dependable multimeter matters. For electricians, the meter needs to be easy to use, accurate, and suitable for the type of electrical work being performed.
Fluke 117 vs Klein MM720
Fluke 117 vs Klein MM720: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Fluke 117 | Klein MM720 |
|---|---|---|
| Type | True-RMS digital multimeter | Professional digital multimeter |
| True-RMS | Yes | Yes |
| Best suited for | Electricians, maintenance | Electrical, HVAC, troubleshooting |
| Auto-ranging | Yes | Yes |
| Non-contact voltage | VoltAlert | Depends on configuration/features |
| Display | 6,000 counts | 10,000 counts |
| Input protection | CAT III 600V | CAT III 1000V / CAT IV 600V |
| Temperature | No dedicated thermocouple input | Yes |
| Capacitance | Yes | Yes |
| Frequency | Yes | Yes |
| Amazon availability | Yes | Varies |
The specifications can vary by exact model revision, so always check the manufacturer’s current datasheet before purchase.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Fluke 117: The Electrician-Focused Choice
The Fluke 117 is one of the company’s best-known meters for electricians. Its True-RMS measurement makes it useful for testing modern electrical loads where waveform distortion can affect readings.
One of its most useful features is VoltAlert non-contact voltage detection. It allows an electrician to perform a quick voltage-presence check before making a direct measurement.
The meter also uses Auto-V/LoZ technology to help reduce false voltage readings caused by ghost voltage in certain electrical circuits.
If you are comparing other professional meters, my best multimeter for electricians guide covers several options for electrical installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Klein MM720: What Makes It Different?
The Klein MM720 is designed as a broader professional multimeter, with a larger measurement range and additional functions that can appeal to technicians who want more versatility.
Its higher display count and expanded measurement capability can be useful during troubleshooting. The meter is also designed around a higher safety rating than the Fluke 117, although users should always verify the exact CAT rating for the measurement being performed.
For technicians who work across electrical, HVAC, electronics, and maintenance applications, these additional functions can be valuable.
Fluke 117 vs Klein MM720 for Electricians
For a typical electrician, the Fluke 117 has a strong advantage in simplicity. Its controls are straightforward, the meter is designed specifically around electrical work, and the VoltAlert feature adds another practical field tool.
The Klein MM720 makes more sense when you want a wider range of functions and a higher display resolution.
| Work Type | Better Choice |
|---|---|
| Residential electrical work | Fluke 117 |
| Panel troubleshooting | Fluke 117 |
| General electrical maintenance | Fluke 117 |
| HVAC troubleshooting | Klein MM720 / Fluke 117 depending on requirements |
| Broader diagnostic work | Klein MM720 |
| Simple electrician-focused operation | Fluke 117 |
For a deeper look at the Fluke meter for heating and cooling applications, see Fluke 117 for HVAC Technicians.
Accuracy and True-RMS Performance
True-RMS is important when measuring AC voltage or current from equipment that does not produce a clean sine wave. Variable-frequency drives, electronic power supplies, LED drivers, and many modern loads can produce distorted waveforms.
Both meters offer True-RMS measurement, so this is not the deciding factor by itself.
In practical troubleshooting, the quality of the test leads, measurement technique, meter condition, and electrical environment also influence the result. A True-RMS meter does not eliminate the need for safe and correct testing practices.
Which Multimeter Should You Buy?
The choice becomes easier when you consider how you work.
Choose the Fluke 117 if you want a well-established electrician’s multimeter with straightforward controls, True-RMS measurement, and VoltAlert non-contact voltage detection.
Choose the Klein MM720 if you prefer a broader feature set, higher display resolution, and additional diagnostic functions.
For someone buying a primary meter for everyday electrical work, I would lean toward the Fluke 117 because its design is focused on the tasks electricians perform most often.
Check the current Fluke 117 price on Amazon: Fluke 117 Electrician’s True-RMS Multimeter
For more alternatives across different budgets and applications, compare my best multimeter for electricians recommendations before making your final purchase.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Fluke 117 better than the Klein MM720?
The Fluke 117 is an excellent choice for electricians who want a simple, dependable True-RMS meter. The Klein MM720 may be preferable if you need broader measurement functions and a higher display count.
Is Fluke 117 True-RMS?
Yes. The Fluke 117 is a True-RMS digital multimeter, making it suitable for measuring AC signals where waveform distortion can affect conventional average-responding meters.
Is the Klein MM720 good for electricians?
Yes. Its range of measurement functions makes it useful for electrical troubleshooting and maintenance. However, electricians who prefer a dedicated, straightforward field meter may prefer the Fluke 117.
Does the Fluke 117 detect voltage without contact?
Yes. The Fluke 117 includes VoltAlert non-contact voltage detection, which can provide a quick indication of AC voltage presence.
Which is better for HVAC work, Fluke 117 or Klein MM720?
It depends on the HVAC tasks. The Klein MM720 can be attractive for technicians who need additional measurement functions, while the Fluke 117 is a strong choice for general electrical troubleshooting. Check the specific measurements required for your HVAC equipment before buying.
Final Verdict
The fluke 117 vs klein mm720 comparison comes down to specialization versus versatility. The Fluke 117 is a strong electrician-focused multimeter with True-RMS measurement, Auto-V/LoZ, and VoltAlert detection. It is especially appealing when simple operation and dependable field use are priorities.
The Klein MM720 offers a broader feature set and can be a better fit for technicians who regularly perform varied diagnostic work.
For most electricians choosing a primary professional multimeter, the Fluke 117 remains my preferred option because it focuses on the measurements and features that matter most during everyday electrical troubleshooting.
Buy the Fluke 117 on Amazon: Fluke 117 Electrician’s True-RMS Multimeter
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