Fluke 101 vs Fluke 106 – What’s the difference?

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For technicians, hobbyists, and DIY users, Fluke’s entry-level compact digital multimeters offer reliability at an affordable price. The Fluke 101 and Fluke 106 are two of the most popular models in this category.

FLUKE-101 Digital Multimeter

While they look similar, they serve slightly different purposes. Let’s break down the key differences so you can pick the right one.

Table of Contents

πŸ“‹ Overview of the Fluke 101

The Fluke 101 is designed as a basic, ultra-portable digital multimeter for quick measurements. It’s affordable, lightweight, and durable, making it a great option for beginners or those who need a secondary meter for simple checks.

Fluke 101 Basic Digital Multimeter Pocket Portable Meter Equipment Industrial (Original Version)

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Key Features:

  • Compact and lightweight (only ~160g).
  • Measures AC/DC voltage, resistance, continuity, and frequency.
  • CAT III 600V safety rating.
  • 2000-count display.
  • No current (A or mA) measurement.

Best For: Beginners, homeowners, or professionals needing a quick, pocket-sized tester for basic measurements.

⚑ Overview of the Fluke 106

The Fluke 106 is a step up, offering more measurement functions while keeping the same compact form factor.

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Key Features:

  • Measures AC/DC voltage, resistance, continuity, and frequency.
  • Can also measure current (up to 10A) and capacitance.
  • True-RMS for more accurate AC readings.
  • CAT III 600V safety rating.
  • Compact size, slightly heavier than the 101.

Best For: Professionals or hobbyists who need a compact multimeter but still require current and capacitance measurement.

βš–οΈ Fluke 101 vs 106: Side-by-Side

FeatureFluke 101Fluke 106
Size & WeightVery light, pocket-sizedCompact, slightly heavier
Voltage Measurementβœ… Yesβœ… Yes
Resistance/Continuityβœ… Yesβœ… Yes
Frequencyβœ… Yesβœ… Yes
Current Measurement❌ Noβœ… Up to 10A
Capacitance❌ Noβœ… Yes
True-RMS❌ Noβœ… Yes
Safety RatingCAT III 600VCAT III 600V
πŸ’³ PricingπŸ’²Check PriceπŸ’²Check Price

βœ… Pros and Cons

Fluke 101
βœ” Affordable entry-level option
βœ” Extremely lightweight and portable
βœ” Reliable for voltage, resistance, and continuity
✘ No current measurement
✘ Lacks True-RMS

Fluke 106
βœ” Includes current and capacitance measurement
βœ” True-RMS accuracy
βœ” Still compact and easy to carry
✘ More expensive than the 101
✘ Fewer features compared to larger Fluke meters

FLUKE-101 Digital Multimeter

πŸ“ Which One Should You Choose?

  • Choose the Fluke 101 if you want a budget-friendly, ultra-portable meter for basic tasks like voltage checks, resistance, and continuity testing.
  • Choose the Fluke 106 if you need a compact but more capable meter with current and capacitance measurements and True-RMS accuracy.

In short, the Fluke 101 is the minimalist’s choice, while the Fluke 106 is the more versatile compact multimeter for everyday professional use.

Fluke 17B+ Digital Multimeter, for Electrical Applications, Measures AC/DC Voltage 1000V, Current Measurements to 10A, Resistance, Continuity, Diode, Capacitance, Frequency, and Temperature Testing