Best LCR Meters in 2022

Last update: January 1, 2023

Can you use an LCR meter in circuit?

An LCR meter is a device used to measure inductance (L), capacitance (C), and resistance (R). It can be used to measure inductors in circuit, but cannot measure capacitors or resistors in circuit.

How accurate are LCR meters?

LCR meters are devices used to measure inductance (L), capacitance (C), and resistance (R). They are typically used to measure the values of components in electronic circuits. LCR meters are generally considered to be accurate, but their accuracy can vary depending on the manufacturer and the model.

How do I calibrate my LCR meter?

An LCR meter is a device used to measure inductance (L), capacitance (C), and resistance (R). It is important to calibrate your LCR meter regularly to ensure accurate measurements. To calibrate your LCR meter, you will need a known value for each of the three measurements. For example, you can use a 100 Ω resistor for the resistance measurement. Once you have your known values, follow these steps: 1. Connect the known values in series with the LCR meter. 2. Adjust the meter settings until it reads the known

How do I measure inductance?

To measure inductance, you need an inductance meter. These devices are typically used to measure very low inductance values, and are not commonly found in most electronic shops. If you do not have access to an inductance meter, you can use an AC voltmeter to measure inductance.


LCR Research Pro1 Plus - 100KHz LCR Meter with 0.1% Accuracy/LED Tester/ESR Meter/Smart SMD Tweezers Review:


Because I had already ordered the ST5S model of the "Smart Tweezers" brand, I was a bit unsure about whether it would be worthwhile to pay the extra $29 above ST5S. However, I am overjoyed with them and would STRONGLY advise these to anyone who could utilize them. That is the gist of everything.The lengthy one is here.Since I paid almost the same amount for both the "LCR Research" Pro1 Plus and the "Smart Tweezers" ST5S, I figured it might be helpful to compare the two in case someone else is considering the same purchase. They both qualify as an LCR meter, cost roughly the same, and have a similar appearance. They are not, however, the same.I'll start by talking about their appearance and usefulness. When you open up the two side by side (see photographs), the ST5S appears to have more items at first glance. Along with the device are a USB stick, charging cord, and AC to DC adapter (of the BlackBerry brand, perhaps?). Calibration Certificate, little hard plastic case, and lastly the tweezers themselves (guess they still had a few remnants from those things).The Pro1 Plus used a more straightforward but still efficient strategy. It includes a charging connection, a hard plastic padded case, and tweezers. Doesn't seem like much, but who doesn't have a USB port where they can plug it in to charge it, or who needs another free or inexpensive USB flash drive? Regarding the outdated Blackberry charger that was included with the ST5S, I simply found it amusing, but I don't believe you want your consumers making fun of your product. The package was prettier, which was a benefit, but it doesn't really matter in the long run.Each one's accompanying cases include two radically different designs. The ST5S includes a large, rigid black plastic "tube" into which you can insert your tweezers. How can you tell if the points of your tweezers are not touching the bottom of the "tube" is my issue with that. Let's take a scenario where you accidently drop it and the force of the impact pushes the pins into the "tube's" bottom and breaks the points. The object is black plastic, so unless you have X-Ray Vision, you will never be able to tell.With a foam cutout that develops around the tweezers and, more critically, the tips, the Pro1 Plus has a durable black plastic housing. Keeping them safe in case it accidently falls to the floor. If I saw both cases in the shop, I would unquestionably choose the Pro1 Plus's case over the ST5S.Then the actual tweezers. When both screens are turned on, the size disparity is the first thing you notice. On such a little gadget, the Pro1 Plus's larger size makes a significant difference. The font that the Pro1 Plus utilizes is also larger than the screen itself. The next thing is how each one uses their navigation method to access the menus. On the ST5S, you will only have one "joystick" to use for navigation. You can use the arrow keys to move up, down, left, right, or in. This sounds like a fine idea, however the "joystick" is so small that my fat fingers occasionally push it in instead of to the left or hit it in the opposite direction. There seemed to be a slight lag between hitting the button and the screen reacting, which was the device's second flaw in my opinion. Or nothing would happen at all even though I thought I pressed it and heard a "click." Because of the delay, I was never sure whether to wait or press it again in case it didn't register or I had touched it incorrectly. Additionally, the font is considerably smaller than the screen already is. Even though I don't have particularly poor vision, I had to stand around 6 inches away from the screen to read the menus and settings, not the measures. As a result, I had to bring anything I wanted to adjust directly to my face in order to ensure that I did so correctly.The Pro1 Plus's display is larger, sharper, and appears to have more contrast between the letters and the screen's black background. I can actually change settings while having the tweezers by the object I'm measuring. The Pro1 Plus's navigation mechanism is substantially more responsive and user-friendly. It is much simpler and more logical to alter the choices you want to turn on or off when you can simply go up, down, or press enter. Additionally, when you press and hold the button for 30 seconds to access the main menu screen It only takes a fraction of a second and always functions correctly.We'll now use the meter to take measurements.From more features to better precision and, in my experience, superior circuit testing, the Pro1 Plus really has the ST5S beat in this aspect. I'll list a few noteworthy features, but if you're interested in seeing them all, visit their website. The extremely low test voltage for in-circuit testing was something I found handy. The lowest voltage for the Pro1 Plus is.2V, whereas the ST5S's is.45V. The Pro1 Plus went up to a 100KHz bandwidth for the test frequency, however the ST5S only goes up to 10KHz, which was another feature I liked. Additionally, I thought it was thoughtful of LCR Research to include a self-calibration test to ensure continued accuracy for the environment you are in. The Pro1 Plus's extremely tiny, pinpoint tips are another standout feature. I am aware that Smart Tweezers sells a set of "precise tips," but they are $60 more expensive than the normal tips that come with the ST5S. When I simply measured the two components out of circuit as shown and verified with my Fluke 87v, I didn't notice a significant difference between the two. I did spot a significant variation in the circuit, though. You can see that I am measuring the same resistor with each pair of photos (sorry, I attempted to arrange them in order but I'm not sure how) and the ST5S keeps reading resistors as caps. Although there are caps in line with those resistors, the component I am testing is not one of them. It's important to remember that both of them were in Auto mode when I tested them. This repeatedly took place. The ST5S occasionally detected the correct component, but the ratio was terrible. A LED checker is another function of the Pro1 Plus that the ST5S lacks. As you can see in my photos, I tested it out, and it lights up an LED and displays its Vf and If. The ST5S only passed the "Short" test when used in diode mode. Again, please visit the website if you want to learn more about the Pro1 Plus's numerous features because I don't feel comfortable simply listing them here.Another event that influenced my purchase was when I emailed LCR Research's sales department with a few questions about the Pro1 Plus. I received a prompt response from a man named Chris, who went above and above to address all of my inquiries. He also gave me the assurance that if I had any queries about the Pro1 Plus, I could contact him and he would react in the same amount of time. I'll be a very satisfied customer if I can consistently count on that level of help.Unfortunately, Windows XP is not compatible with their program. It only supports Windows 7 and newer. Would you agree that I should buy a new computer with money from my job?



DE-5000 Handheld LCR Meter with accessories Review:


This meter offers a ton of capability at a cost a hobbyist can bear. I believed it to be true. Visit http://www.deree.com.tw/templates/mobile/eng/de-5000.html to view its specifications. The only thing I didn't like about it was that its manual, which is solely written in something like Japanese, is completely worthless to English-speaking people. For this meter, there is a 52 page manual available at http://www.ietlabs.com/pdf/Manuals/DE 5000 im.pdf.The capacitance values from the DE-5000 and a calibrated FLUKE 87-V were comparable when I examined them. This wasn't a thorough evaluation of the DE-5000's abilities. The DE-5000 has the ability to calibrate out test lead offsets and employs kelvin connections. It also provides a variety of customizable test frequencies. The Fluke does not have access to these functions. I merely did it to feel better about everything.There are a few warnings. 1. The meter can be harmed by high voltages. Ensure that the electrolytic has been discharged before connecting the DE-5000. The ability to discharge them is not present. 2. Despite being nicely constructed, it is not constructed like a fluke. You might not have it for very long if you bang it about.



BSIDE ESR02 PRO Transistor Tester SMD Components Checker Mega328 NPN/PNP Diode Resistor Inductor Capacitance ESR Meter with Tweezers Review:


The BSIDE ESR02 Pro is quite impressive for its cost and size. I'm both happy to have found it and sorry it took me so long to do it. A little device that can recognize and quantify a wide range of component types and values? Really? And for such a bargain? Really? I wouldn't believe it if I weren't using it.Naturally, I conducted the required testing of various components from my junk drawers after obtaining the ESR02 Pro. In every instance, the ESR02 Pro correctly detected and reasonably (or occasionally downright _accurately_) measured whatever I attached to it (OK, I didn't attempt really _bizarre_ components, just simple ones). Phase one is finished. I no longer need to seek for a data sheet before utilizing my transistor tester (now optionally), thus my hand-built RLC bridge will be by itself.I then pursued the idea for which I had been looking for a tool: a broken-down old radio. I abused the ESR02 Pro by attempting to measure electrolytic capacitors in-circuit after previously proving at least one was defective and had doubts about the rest. Yes, several of the capacitors did indeed measure as having low capacitance, high ESR, or both. Lucky circuit characteristics shone upon my misuse: all but one of the accused components did in fact turn out to be defective following removal. The other one was situated in such a way that I was unable to properly remove it, and as a result, I was unable to test it after removal (it helps if the leads are still there...). Now, the only issues I have to worry about are "passing" capacitors that may actually be faulty if they are covered up by unfavorable circuit characteristics, as well as other issues like solid-conductor ribbon cable that has undergone strain fracture. I was able to "cover a lot of ground" toward the desired fix rapidly thanks to the ESR02 Pro.Keep in mind that I ordered my unit with tweezers. Although the flat, flexible tips were less than perfect for my circuit-probing usage, these proved to be functional. However, after a little effort, I was able to handle them adequately.First hint: If the tester shuts off prematurely, quickly access the menu system or check that it's connected to something. Instead of waiting for you to examine or record the absence of data, it instantly turns off after indicating that it couldn't find anything to measure.Hint #2: Keep in mind C ESR mode (accessed via the menu system). Although it appears to be limited to many microfarads, this mode is your ticket to efficiency if you want to efficiently test a large number of somewhat sized capacitors.What might be unpleasant after a positive experience with the unit, then? All I've found are minor and unnecessary problems. The only reason I present the following remarks is in the vain hope that they would improve a good tool.My alkaline and lithium batteries fit "just right" in the battery compartment, however a Batteries Plus NURE9V-1LS (NiMH low self discharge rechargeable) barely fits. In actuality, removing it calls for a little prying instrument. For such batteries, a minor enlargement of the battery compartment would be excellent, albeit it would make the battery "rattle" louder for more typical-sized batteries.The built-in connections for leaded components were a little challenging for me to use; I had an equal chance of bending a component lead as I did of inserting it. Maybe forming and/or plating could make the connection easier.The labels of the identical-function buttons differ. It would be clearer if the "20s Auto Off" remark was placed between the buttons rather than just below one of them.On the back is an ESR chart with black print on a dark blue background (thanks!). To improve reading, swap the dark blue for a light one and raise the contrast ratio.The documentation identifies certain items on the user interface as "Reserved" (Frequency, Rotary Encoder). If such choices do anything, I would appreciate documentation, and if not, I would have preferred they not be visible in the user interface.Please Provide More Documentation: I would need information regarding the various data the self-test displays as well as data it might display in the future if it discovers an error.



PEAK Atlas LCR45 LCR and Impedance Meter Review:


For RF work, I purchased the LCR45 even though I already had the LCR40, which is adequate for checking nominal readings. It offers sophisticated impedance information and operates more frequently than other mobile devices. The user interface has been improved since, unlike LCR40, it now also stays in measurement mode for a longer period of time. It expedites the process of sorting a batch of caps for tolerance.



BSIDE ESR02 PRO Digital Transistor Tester SMD Electronic Components Meter Diode Triode Capacitor MOSFET Resistor Inductance LCR ESR Checker Review:


The BSIDE ESR02 Pro is quite impressive for its cost and size. I'm both happy to have found it and sorry it took me so long to do it. A little device that can recognize and quantify a wide range of component types and values? Really? And for such a bargain? Really? I wouldn't believe it if I weren't using it.Naturally, I conducted the required testing of various components from my junk drawers after obtaining the ESR02 Pro. In every instance, the ESR02 Pro correctly detected and reasonably (or occasionally downright _accurately_) measured whatever I attached to it (OK, I didn't attempt really _bizarre_ components, just simple ones). Phase one is finished. I no longer need to seek for a data sheet before utilizing my transistor tester (now optionally), thus my hand-built RLC bridge will be by itself.I then pursued the idea for which I had been looking for a tool: a broken-down old radio. I abused the ESR02 Pro by attempting to measure electrolytic capacitors in-circuit after previously proving at least one was defective and had doubts about the rest. Yes, several of the capacitors did indeed measure as having low capacitance, high ESR, or both. Lucky circuit characteristics shone upon my misuse: all but one of the accused components did in fact turn out to be defective following removal. The other one was situated in such a way that I was unable to properly remove it, and as a result, I was unable to test it after removal (it helps if the leads are still there...). Now, the only issues I have to worry about are "passing" capacitors that may actually be faulty if they are covered up by unfavorable circuit characteristics, as well as other issues like solid-conductor ribbon cable that has undergone strain fracture. I was able to "cover a lot of ground" toward the desired fix rapidly thanks to the ESR02 Pro.Note My device with the tweezers had been ordered. Although the flat, flexible tips were less than perfect for my circuit-probing usage, these proved to be functional. However, after a little effort, I was able to handle them adequately.First hint: If the tester shuts off prematurely, quickly access the menu system or check that it's connected to something. Instead of waiting for you to examine or record the absence of data, it instantly turns off after indicating that it couldn't find anything to measure.Hint #2: Keep in mind C ESR mode (accessed via the menu system). Although it appears to be limited to many microfarads, this mode is your ticket to efficiency if you want to efficiently test a large number of somewhat sized capacitors.What might be unpleasant after a positive experience with the unit, then? All I've found are minor and unnecessary problems. The only reason I present the following remarks is in the vain hope that they would improve a good tool.My alkaline and lithium batteries fit "just right" in the battery compartment, however a Batteries Plus NURE9V-1LS (NiMH low self discharge rechargeable) barely fits. In actuality, removing it calls for a little prying instrument. For such batteries, a minor enlargement of the battery compartment would be excellent, albeit it would make the battery "rattle" louder for more typical-sized batteries.The built-in connections for leaded components were a little challenging for me to use; I had an equal chance of bending a component lead as I did of inserting it. Maybe forming and/or plating could make the connection easier.The labels of the identical-function buttons differ. It would be clearer if the "20s Auto Off" remark was placed between the buttons rather than just below one of them.On the back is an ESR chart with black print on a dark blue background (thanks!). To improve reading, swap the dark blue for a light one and raise the contrast ratio.The documentation identifies certain items on the user interface as "Reserved" (Frequency, Rotary Encoder). If such choices do anything, I would appreciate documentation, and if not, I would have preferred they not be visible in the user interface.Please Provide More Documentation I want to know more about the various data that the self-test shows, as well as data that it might show in the future if it detects an error.



CAMWAY LCR Meter LCD Capacitance Inductance Resistance Tester Measuring Meter Self-discharge pF nF μF With Overrange Display Review:


I purchased this mostly for the low value inductance ranges and tested it with a Miller 180 to 750 uH variable choke. It tracked the choke precisely from just below 180 to just over 750. Moreover, measurements of high tolerance caps in the 100–200 pF range were accurate. UPDATE: On June 6, 2019, I wound a 285 uH coil and determined the capacitor for operation at 70 kHz, and the calculation was accurate. It's a fantastic tool.



diymore Multifunction LCR-T4 Mega328 Transistor Tester Diode Triode Capacitance ESR Meter MOS PNP/NPN M328 with Capacitor ESR Testing Function Green Backlight LCD Display Review:


This gadget is great, especially considering the cost. Basic parts and transistors that build up in my project bin's thruhole and smd dish are simple to recognise fast. A.35mH got recorded as a.14mH when I tried it on some inductor coils for crossovers, I'll admit that. Ouch. Therefore, you should consider inductance and maybe ESR measurements with caution. You still can't top the capabilities of this item for the price, although it might have been the ranges I was working in.



Extech 380193 Passive Component LCR Meter Review:


Yes, it is pricey, but it is also a fantastic piece of technology. It includes software for the computer interface, test leads, a shielded protective casing, a 9-volt battery, a manual, an RS232 optical connection for data acquisition, and a manual. It provides options for Series or Parallel testing at two frequencies of 120Hz and 1KHz and measures the R, L, and C of components. The Q, D, and R of the component being evaluated will also be provided (Quality Factor, Dissipation Factor and Resistance, respectively). Additionally, it offers record modes, Auto-Ranging, Tolerance setting, HI/Lo Limit setting, and Ave Reading choices. It also has Automatic power down for battery life. It is a really well-made Meter. Given the number of images on the display and the dim back lighting, some of the high-resolution symbols seem fairly small. Since my eyes are fine, you might need to squint a little, but I'm just trying to provide as much information as I can. Overall, I really adore this gadget. I'm going to use it a lot. I have experience as a mechanical designer and electrical engineer in the aerospace sector.


How do you measure inductance without a LCR meter?

To measure inductance without an LCR meter, you can use an inductance meter. This is a device that uses a coil of wire to create a magnetic field. When the coil is placed around the inductor, the magnetic field induces a current in the inductor. The inductance meter measures the current and displays the inductance on a digital readout.

How does an LCR meter measure impedance?

An LCR meter is a type of electronic test equipment used to measure impedance. Impedance is a measure of the opposition to current flow in an electric circuit. In its simplest form, an LCR meter consists of an AC voltmeter, an AC ammeter, and a resistor. The AC voltmeter measures the voltage across the resistor, and the AC ammeter measures the current through the resistor. The impedance of the circuit is then calculated using the formula: impedance = voltage / current.

How does LCR meter measure inductance?

An LCR meter is an electronic measuring instrument that measures the inductance (L), capacitance (C), and resistance (R) of an electronic component. It is used in the electronics industry for the testing and quality control of inductors, capacitors, and resistors.

How is motor inductance measured?

Inductance is typically measured using an inductance meter. This instrument uses Faraday's law of induction to measure the inductance of a coil. The basic principle is to pass a known current through the coil and measure the resulting voltage across the coil. The voltage is proportional to the inductance.

Is LCR bridge and LCR meter same?

An LCR bridge is an electronic measuring instrument used to measure inductance (L), capacitance (C), and resistance (R). An LCR meter is a type of electronic test equipment used to measure inductance (L), capacitance (C), and resistance (R).

Is LCR meter is multimeter?