Milwaukee has come out with two new auto voltage and continuity testers that they say combines the simplicity of a traditional tester with the digital readout of a higher functionality meter. Essentially, these are two bare-bones multimeters.
There will be two different testers – one that only measures voltage and checks for continuity (2212-20), and another that also measures resistance (2213-20).
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According to Milwaukee press materials, the new testers provide maximum value for any Apprentice or Journeymen Electrician looking for the most accurate and simple way to quickly test outlets, switches, and breaker panels.
Features
- CAT IV- 600V safety rating
- AC & DC voltage, 600V max
- Auto-ranging
- Tests for continuity
- Measures resistance up to 20 kΩ (2213-20 only)
- Backlit LCD display
- LED worklight
- Audible and LED alerts
- Auto Off
- Replaceable Leads
So why use something like this? The key points of these testers are value, accuracy, speed, and simplicity. They can provide more insight and information than simple voltage testers, while being simpler and easier to use than ordinary multimeters.
ETA: August 2014
Price: $40 (2212-20), $50 (2213-20)
First Thoughts
Milwaukee’s new voltage and continuity tester appears to be similarly functioned as the Klein MM500 multimeter that came out a year ago. We tested that model briefly, and then a few times more in recent months, and have come to appreciate its simplicity and ease of use.
I can definitely see the appeal of a meter like this. The Fluke 87V multimeter that I reviewed a few months ago is the best handheld meter I have ever used. It’s an utterly fantastic piece of equipment. But hand it to an apprentice, and they might get lost in its options and capabilities. Hand it to an electrician, and might be bummed at having to carry around such a large and heavy meter when all they need is a quick voltage or continuity measurement here and there.
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Sometimes, the best tool for the job is a simple 2- or 3-function tester like this one. Other times, you might want or need a meter with greater functionality. If you already have a fully-functioned meter, then this might make for a convenient sidekick that hangs off your belt just in case you need it.
The prices of the new testers are reasonable – $40 for the 2212-20 voltage and continuity tester, and $50 for the 2213-20 voltage, continuity, and resistance tester.
Michael Quinlan
I have the MM500 and love it. It’s easy to use, and automatically adapts for AC or DC voltage – which I really appreciate when checking power at security cameras, which are typically either 12VDC or 24VAC. There’s definitely a place for meters like this.
Mike
I like the detachable leads. I recently had my Fluke T5 stolen and have yet to replace it cause the “fixed” leads always bugged me. I mostly just used it for voltage and continuity testing. This looks like it would fit into pockets and tool bags much easier then a T5 or any large meter. For $40 it’s worth a shot!
joe
I’ll keep my t5 600
Bruce
I almost always require more than this meter, but less than a 87V. The auto AC/DC is great, unless the wires you are working on have both current types on the wire. I’ve often found the MM2000 from Klein to be the best bang for the buck for my team.
vince
hi bruce what is the quality performance like on the milwaukere 2212-20 meter on ac dc volts as this unit is new to meto me I prefer Milwaukee 2216-20 multimeter over klein brand anyday thanks vince
David
Does anyone know where the new Milwaukee meters are made?
Jim Kramer
I also own (and love) the Klein MM500. This seems like Milwaukee just trying to copy Klein. This has the same functions, and the same price. But, the Klein seems way more durable. The Klein is waterproof, and dust proof, (IP67) and they have tons of videos showing how it takes a beating. They even dropped it 40 feet to pavement, and it survived. The Klein also measures higher voltage, up to 750 Volts.
This Milwaukee says nothing about durability, or IP rating, so I doubt that have any, so the Klein is still a way better value. So, back to the drawing board Milwaukee, Klein is still tops in this area.
Mike
The 2212 is on clearance at Home Depot for $29.00 with an additional case, accessory set, and non-contact voltage probe included. That’s only $9 more than the voltage probe alone. This isn’t something I would normally have bought, but for that price I was willing to give it a shot and maybe keep my Fluke meters from getting bumped around so much.
Mike
This thing is already destined for the trash. Whenever a voltage reading is higher than 35V it emits a constant BEEP BEEP BEEP with no way to shut it off. All of my meters have a voltage hazard warning, but they are all simple indicators on the display. Is this permanent audio warning common on these types of meters?
The unit automatically powers off after ten minutes. Not ten minutes after the last measurement, ten minutes after it has been turned on. I’ve never seen another meter that does that, no matter how inexpensive or cheap. Turn it on, take a measurement 9 minutes 55 seconds later, and it turns off during the reading. At least the infernal loud beeping finally stops.
Yes, it was on clearance and didn’t cost me much money. But this really has soured me away from any type of Milwaukee electrical tools or testers in the future.
vince
hi does the Milwaukee 2213-20 autovoltage continuitytesters measure low resistance under 20 kohms