Fluke 114 vs 115 vs 116 vs 117: Comparing Features and Choosing the Best Multimeter

The Fluke 11x series includes four popular True-RMS digital multimeters: Fluke 114, Fluke 115, Fluke 116, and Fluke 117. While these models share a common foundation, each is designed with specific users in mind, such as HVAC technicians, field service engineers, and commercial electricians. Understanding the real differences between these models helps you choose the right tool that will save time and improve the precision of your work. This comparison guide includes a feature-by-feature analysis, pros and cons of each model, recommendations for different user groups, and a visual comparison table to make your decision-making process easier.

Shared Features Across All Fluke 114, 115, 116, and 117 Models

All models in the Fluke 11x series—including the Fluke 114, Fluke 115, Fluke 116, and Fluke 117—come equipped with a range of shared features designed to provide accuracy, durability, and ease of use in various environments:

• True-RMS Measurement for precise AC measurements, even with complex, non-sinusoidal waveforms.

• 6000-Count Backlit Display for clear, easy-to-read measurements in any lighting conditions.

• AC/DC Voltage Measurement up to 600V, allowing for versatile testing in both residential and industrial applications.

• Resistance and Continuity Testing, plus a CAT III 600V safety rating for added protection during electrical work.

• LED White Backlight for improved visibility in low-light environments, ensuring clarity during fieldwork.

These shared specifications guarantee that all models in the Fluke 11x series deliver the signature reliability and accuracy that Fluke is known for, making them trusted tools for professionals across various industries.

Feature Comparison Table between Fluke 114, 115, 116, and 117

Below is a visual chart comparing core features of the 114, 115, 116, and 117:

Fluke 114: The Essential Troubleshooter

Best For: Entry-level electricians, home service techs

✅ Pros:

• Compact and affordable
• LoZ feature to eliminate ghost voltages
• CAT III 600V rated

❌ Cons:

• No current, diode, frequency, or temp measurement
• Lacks VoltAlert non-contact voltage detection
• Verdict: Great for basic residential or facility voltage/resistance testing.

Fluke 115: The Field Tech Favorite

Best For: Service technicians needing full diagnostics

✅ Pros:

• Measures AC/DC current up to 20A
• Includes frequency, capacitance, diode testing
• Has Min/Max/Average functionality

❌ Cons:

• No temperature measurement
• No VoltAlert or LoZ

Verdict: Excellent all-around meter for general electronics and electrical troubleshooting.

Fluke 116: The HVAC Specialist’s Choice

Best For: HVAC technicians who need accurate electrical measurements plus temperature and microamp testing for flame sensors.

✅Pros:

•  Built-in thermometer for HVAC applications

• Measures microamps for testing flame sensors

• True RMS for accurate measurements on non-linear loads

• Compact design with easy one-hand operation

• Min/Max/Average recording

❌Cons:

•  No milliamp range (limited for some specialized tasks)

• No LoZ (Low Input Impedance) function for eliminating ghost voltage

• Not as feature-rich for general electronics compared to Fluke 115 or 117

Verdict:The Fluke 116 is a highly reliable HVAC-focused digital multimeter. With its built-in temperature measurement and microamp range, it’s the perfect companion for heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning technicians who need accurate diagnostics on flame sensors, motors, and HVAC systems.

Fluke 117: The Electrician’s Top Choice

Best For: Commercial electricians, building maintenance teams

✅ Pros:

• Includes VoltAlert™ non-contact voltage detection
• LoZ function removes ghost voltages
• Measures current, frequency, capacitance, diode
• Fast, reliable, True-RMS measurements

❌ Cons:

• No temperature measurement

Verdict: The most advanced and complete of the four—ideal for commercial settings.

Fluke 11x Series Side-by-Side Comparisons

while all four models in the Fluke 11x Series offer True-RMS accuracy and core electrical testing functions, their key differences lie in their specialized features: the Fluke 114 is a basic troubleshooting tool with ghost voltage (LoZ) elimination but lacks current, frequency, and diode testing; the Fluke 115 adds those core features but omits temperature and non-contact voltage detection; the Fluke 116 is purpose-built for HVAC professionals with built-in temperature and microamp capabilities; and the Fluke 117 stands out with VoltAlert™ non-contact voltage detection and LoZ, making it ideal for commercial electricians working in high-traffic or high-risk environments. Choosing the right model depends on your field and whether you prioritize thermal testing, ghost voltage suppression, or safety-focused features like contactless detection.

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