A multifunction tester is an electrician’s best friend – an integral part of every electrician’s tool box. However, the decision to buy a tester can be difficult. They’re an expensive piece of kit and whilst you don’t want to spend more than what you have to, it is important that a multifunction tester is going to do what you want it to.

Does price matter?

To be fair, the clue to the quality of multifunction tester often lies within the price. The tolerance/accuracy levels tend to be much better with higher end models and some essential features can be either missing or become a costly upgrade.

Saying that though, many electricians have an idea of the main players in the field such as Fluke or Megger, however sometimes budget does not allow for the big brands. So we have decided to take a look at some of the most popular testers in the field to find out exactly what you are getting for your money.

Megger MFT1720 (£600 – £810)

Megger is well known in the industry and is associated with top quality and features. Many electricians will use no other tester, and is literally is a household name in the electrical industry. Therefore the Megger MFT1720 is one of the leading names in the field and is synonymous with quality. We carried out a review recently of the MFT1720 and can certainly vouch for it’s superior quality and features.

  • Phase rotation service
  • Auto RCD
  • 2 Wire Loop test
  • Backlit LCD display
  • Non trip loop testing

Kewtech KT63 (£430 – £480)

Kewtech is a well known brand within the electrical industry and is known for supplying testers that fulfil the testing obligations. Their testers are innovative, accurate and reliable. Their KT63 features a 5 in 1 multifunction tester which includes:

  • Five in 1 multifunction tester measures insulation, continuity and more
  • 16 different RCD tests for current ranges for versatile testing
  • Lock down testing for hands free measurements

Seaward Powertest (£330 – £485)

If you are looking for quality and an instrument that will last for years the n Seaward is a great choice.

  • Loop test in 5 seconds
  • Integral probe means reading results easily
  • Auto RCD test

Fluke 1653B (£600 – £900)

Fluke is a much wanted label amongst electricians and is seen as a desirable piece of kit in toolboxes

  • Fast high current loop test
  • Variable RCD current mode for customized settings
  • Pass/Fail indication for RCD tests

Most important features of a multifunction tester

Safety and performance are the two most important features of multifunction testers – they are also two of the most critical requirements for any electrical system. A properly functioning grounding system is essential for any multifunction tester.

Remember you generally get what you pay for so you may find it is worth investing in a higher end product as it will have all the functions you will need and last for many years saving you money in the long run.