Whether you’re a hobbyist tinkering in your garage, a student diving into electronics, or a professional looking for reliable test gear, an oscilloscope is one of the most essential tools you can have on your bench. But with so many models out there — and price tags that sometimes soar into the thousands — how do you find a quality oscilloscope under $1000?
Good news: you don’t have to sacrifice performance for price. In this guide, we’ll break down the best budget-friendly oscilloscopes that deliver great features, sharp displays, and solid performance — all without blowing your budget. Let’s take a closer look at the top picks, what to look for, and how to choose the right one for your needs.
⚡ Oscilloscope Deals ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Table of Contents
What to look for?
The most important things to check are the bandwidth, sample rate, and number of channels. Bandwidth determines what types of signals can be measured. Sample rate affects how clearly I can see fast changes. More channels let me look at several signals at once. It’s also good to think about screen size, portability, and how easy it is to save or share data.
Choosing the right oscilloscope for under $1000 means balancing important features and keeping an eye on quality. With clear goals and careful comparisons, I can find a great option that fits my needs and my budget.
Summary of Top Picks
The list below summarizes our top picks with their unique features
- Siglent SDS1104X-E Digital Oscilloscope – Four channel; 100 MHz
- Rigol DHO914S Digital Oscilloscope – Four channel; 125 MHz; Signal Generator
- Siglent SHS810X Handheld Oscilloscope – Handheld, 2 Channel; 100 MHz
- Rigol DS1104Z-S Plus Oscilloscope – 100 MHz; 4 Channel with AWG
- Siglent SDS1202X-E Digital Oscilloscope – 200 MHz; 2 Channel
- Hantek DSO5102P Oscilloscope – 100 MHz; 2 channel; affordable
- OWON XDS3204E Digital Touchscreen Oscilloscope – 200 MHz; 4 Channel; touchscreen
Best Oscilloscopes Under $1000
I have reviewed and compared the top oscilloscopes you can buy for under $1000. Below, you will find my picks that offer the best performance, features, and value in this price range.
Siglent SDS1104X-E Digital Oscilloscope
The Siglent SDS1104X-E is a solid pick for anyone who needs reliable oscilloscope features under $1000.
Pros
- Supports four channels and includes decoding for common serial protocols
- Offers advanced display features like intensity grading and color temperature
- Quick and accurate measurements with dedicated hardware processing
Cons
- Some optional features require extra purchases
- Included probes may feel basic for more experienced users
- Front panel controls can feel crowded when working across four channels
Right away, the SDS1104X-E stands out for its well-rounded feature set. Having four channels at this price lets me work with more complex circuits without stepping up to much more expensive models. The ability to decode signals from SPI, I2C, UART, and other buses can save a lot of time.
Display quality is a strong point. The color temperature and intensity displays help me see signal differences clearly. Fast waveform capture and the history function make it easier to analyze difficult or rare events.
Some limitations are worth mentioning. The included probes are fine for beginners, but someone with advanced needs may upgrade them. Accessing certain features, like 16 digital channels or a waveform generator, means buying optional modules. When using all four channels, the physical controls can start to feel a bit tight, especially in busy testing setups.
Overall, I see the Siglent SDS1104X-E as a dependable choice for those who require good performance and modern features without going over budget.
Siglent SHS810X Handheld Oscilloscope
The Siglent SHS810X is a solid choice for those wanting a portable oscilloscope with good features and a reliable design under $1000.
Pros
- Compact and easy to travel with
- Clear display makes readings simple
- Offers advanced trigger options
Cons
- Not fully isolated on both scope channels
- May feel bulky compared to smaller handhelds
- Limited memory with both channels active
The Siglent SHS810X stands out for its mix of portability and capability. I like that it combines a full digital oscilloscope with a practical built-in multimeter. The advanced trigger functions help with capturing tricky signals, and the buttons are labeled for quick access to common tasks.
A 5.6-inch color screen gives a clear view of waveforms and data, which helps reduce mistakes. The lithium battery is sizable, so I could expect less worry about recharging during long work sessions.
One thing to consider is that only one of the input channels is isolated, so I’d need to take care with more complex or sensitive measurements. For those who prioritize having a tool that’s easy to bring to different locations and need a multimeter as well, the Siglent SHS810X checks a lot of boxes for less than $1000.
Siglent SDS1202X-E Digital Oscilloscope
If you want reliable performance and a wide range of features under $1000, I think the Siglent SDS1202X-E is a solid choice.
Pros
- Offers advanced features at a budget-friendly price
- Supports many useful triggering modes
- Easy-to-use interface with clear display
Cons
- Menu navigation may take some getting used to
- Serial decode tools are not as helpful as expected
- Limited to two channels
I notice right away that this oscilloscope includes high-end features that are not always seen at this price point. The display is sharp, and navigating through its functions is fairly intuitive after a short learning curve. For anyone working with digital circuits or needing detailed waveform analysis, it covers many needs.
Many triggering and decoding options make it flexible for different types of electronic projects. I appreciate the focus on signal clarity and the well-designed user interface. For those who often analyze complex signals, the built-in analysis tools and fast capture rate stand out.
While the device only has two channels and the serial decoding is somewhat basic, its strengths make it one of the best choices for under $1,000. For classrooms, home labs, or light professional work, the Siglent SDS1202X-E meets most requirements efficiently.
Rigol DHO914S Digital Oscilloscope
I recommend the Rigol DHO914S to anyone who wants advanced features and great signal clarity at a manageable price.
Pros
- Captures tiny signals clearly and offers high resolution
- Has a user-friendly touchscreen and flexible controls
- Many built-in tools make it more versatile for different projects
Cons
- Digital channels and advanced features cost extra
- Some users noticed noise and heating during use
- The user interface could be easier to learn for beginners
This oscilloscope stands out for its sharp signal detail and helpful features. I like that it can handle both basic and complex signal testing, due to its good bandwidth and high-resolution capture. Its bright 7-inch touchscreen speeds up simple tasks, and the front panel makes settings easy to adjust.
It is also handy because it comes with multiple ports, so connecting to other devices or saving data is simple. I appreciate the flexible controls, especially the touch and turn knob, which helps with precision when working quickly. Optional tools, like digital channels and more advanced analysis, add useful layers but can raise the price.
Some drawbacks include a steeper learning curve and the fact that you may need to pay more for all features. Noise and heating have been reported, which could be a concern in longer sessions. Yet overall, the Rigol DHO914S offers solid performance for its cost and should fit most needs under $1000.
Hantek DSO5102P Oscilloscope
I think the Hantek DSO5102P is a strong choice for those who want reliable performance from a digital oscilloscope without breaking the bank.
Pros
- Bright, easy-to-read color screen helps with detailed viewing.
- On-screen help feature saves time learning how to use it.
- Compact and lightweight, so it’s simple to transport.
Cons
- The menu system can be confusing at first.
- Limited to two channels only, which may not fit all needs.
- No advanced analysis features found in higher-end models.
The 7-inch color display on the Hantek DSO5102P stands out for showing sharp and clear waveforms. I appreciate the onboard help function, as it guides users right when they need it. This feature makes the scope more approachable for beginners and can speed up the learning curve.
Portability is another plus point. The device is easy to move around and doesn’t take up much space on a workbench. If USB connectivity or automated measurements are important to you, this model provides those options for added convenience.
However, it doesn’t include advanced tools for deeper data analysis, which could limit more demanding users. The button layout and menu navigation take some time to master, especially if you’re new to digital scopes. For straightforward testing or hobbyist use, I find it to be a sensible and practical solution.
OWON XDS3204E Digital Touchscreen Oscilloscope
I think this oscilloscope is a strong choice if you want a lot of features and solid performance for under $1000.
Pros
- Four channels help with testing more complex circuits
- Combines an oscilloscope, signal generator, and multimeter
- Touchscreen makes it easier to use compared to regular button-only models
Cons
- Menu system can feel crowded since there are so many functions
- Touch controls may be less precise than using physical buttons
- Not as portable due to its larger size
OWON’s XDS3204E offers four channels and a bright touchscreen for easy viewing and control. I find it helpful that this model can be used as a signal generator, data logger, and multimeter, making it a good option if you want an all-in-one tool for your bench.
While the refresh rate is impressive for the price, using the touchscreen might take some time to get used to, especially if you are new to touch controls. The menus hold a lot of information because of the many features, so it may take practice to move quickly through the settings.
If you mostly use it at one location, the larger size will not be an issue. However, it is less travel-friendly than smaller options. I would consider this oscilloscope if I needed several tools in one device and valued a responsive and clear display.
Rigol DS1104Z-S Plus Oscilloscope
I think the Rigol DS1104Z-S Plus is a strong choice for those who need a feature-rich, affordable oscilloscope with modern options.
Pros
- Offers four input channels and a built-in waveform generator
- Includes advanced features like deep memory and high waveform capture speed
- Comes with free software bundle for extra value
Cons
- Some knobs lack tactile feedback, which could make adjustments tricky
- Manual settings may require more tweaking than expected
- Menus and options could be overwhelming for beginners
This model stands out for its four channels and useful built-in 25MHz waveform generator. I can see how these features would appeal to users who need to measure or test more than two signals at once. The included software adds to the overall package, making lab work easier.
Deeper memory and a faster waveform capture rate boost the unit’s usefulness for examining complex signals. Advanced triggering and multiple decoding options give plenty of room to grow. The case is not too bulky, but it manages to fit in plenty of capabilities.
A few drawbacks exist. The knobs may not give satisfying feedback, which can affect precise control. Menus can feel dense, so extra patience may be needed during setup. If you regularly need four inputs and want a mid-range oscilloscope, I think this is a sturdy and cost-effective option.
Buying Guide
When I look for the best oscilloscope under $1000, I focus on the features that matter most for my needs. Here are the main things I check before making a decision:
Bandwidth: I make sure the oscilloscope has enough bandwidth to measure the signals I will work with. The higher the bandwidth, the better it can show fast changes in signals.
Sample Rate: I look for a high sample rate so the oscilloscope can capture more details. A higher rate gives me clearer signal views.
Number of Channels: I decide how many signals I want to measure at once. More channels let me see more signals side by side.
Display Quality: I prefer a bright and clear screen. A good display helps me see waveforms and details without straining my eyes.
Here’s a quick comparison of key features to look at:
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Bandwidth | Affects signal accuracy |
| Sample Rate | Captures more detail |
| Channels | Lets me compare multiple signals |
| Display | Makes data easier to read |
| Connectivity | Transfers data to a computer easily |
| Storage Options | Lets me save and review waveforms |
Other things I think about include connectivity options like USB or LAN, and storage, so I can save waveforms for later.
Last, I set my budget and check user reviews to make sure it fits what I need.
Frequently Asked Questions
I look at the top oscilloscope choices under $1000, covering performance, hobbyist picks, and advanced features like 12-bit resolution. I’ll also share details about buying used models, feature priorities, and value for money.
What is the best performing oscilloscope available for under $1000?
In my experience, the Rigol DS1054Z is one of the best performers in this price range. It offers 50 MHz bandwidth and four channels, with a clear display and a good mix of features for most uses.
The Siglent SDS1202X-E is also a top contender. It delivers 200 MHz bandwidth and two channels, making it suitable for advanced projects at a similar price.
How do I choose an oscilloscope that offers the best value for my money?
I recommend checking bandwidth, sample rate, and number of channels first. Brand reliability and included accessories are also important.
Features like decoding, storage options, and display quality can add value. I find that models from Rigol and Siglent generally offer good balance for most users.
What are the recommended oscilloscopes for hobbyists with a budget limit?
The Hantek DSO5102P and OWON VDS1022I are good options for beginners and hobbyists. These offer necessary features for small electronic projects while staying affordable.
I have found that used units from major brands sometimes fit hobbyist budgets and deliver more features than new entry-level models.
Are there any reliable 12-bit oscilloscopes within a $1000 budget?
Most affordable oscilloscopes use 8-bit ADCs. However, the PicoScope 2204A and some other USB-based models offer higher effective resolution modes.
If true 12-bit resolution is critical, I search for sales or refurbished units from Siglent or Pico, but options are very limited under $1000.
What features should I look for in a high-speed oscilloscope under $1000?
I look for a sample rate of at least 1 GSa/s and a bandwidth of 100 MHz or more. Memory depth and signal decoding are also useful, especially for digital work.
A clear, large display and easy-to-use controls help a lot with fast troubleshooting.
Is purchasing a used oscilloscope a cost-effective option compared to new models?
I often check used market listings for deals on higher-end models from Tektronix, Keysight, or Agilent. These may have better specs than new budget options.
I make sure to inspect for calibration and working condition before buying used. A well-maintained used oscilloscope can provide more features for the money than a new entry-level product.