If you’re undertaking electrical projects around the home, there are certain tool box essentials to keep at the ready. For example, having the best voltage tester on hand will speed up workflow and help keep you safe from shocks.
Voltage testers allow users to check for power quickly, easily, and safely. But since there are different types of voltage testers, this guide can steer consumers toward the models best suited to their needs. To ensure that the following models are really top-notch, we performed hands-on testing in situations DIYers are likely to encounter. Read on to learn how to shop wisely and what we found while putting these products through their paces.
- BEST OVERALL: Fluke 1AC-A1-II VoltAlert Non-Contact Voltage Tester
- RUNNER-UP: Klein Tools NCVT-1 Non-Contact Voltage Tester Pen
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Sperry Instruments STK001 Non-Contact Voltage Tester
- BEST MULTIMETER: Fluke T6-1000 Pro Electrical Tester
- BEST MULTIFUNCTION: Klein Tools NCVT-4IR Non-Contact Voltage Tester Pen
- BEST WITH LIGHT: Greenlee Non-Contact Voltage Detector
- BEST POCKET-SIZE: Ideal Industries 40-1000V AV Volt Aware NCVT
- ALSO CONSIDER: Fluke 2AC Non-Contact Voltage Tester
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Voltage Tester
Here are the most important factors to keep in mind when choosing a voltage tester, including designs and functions.
Design
There are three basic voltage tester designs: pen testers, outlet testers, and multimeters.
- Pen testers are roughly the size and shape of a thick pen or marker. To operate, simply turn it on and touch the wire in question. Users can also place the tip inside an outlet to test for voltage.
- Outlet testers are about the size of an electrical plug and work by plugging directly into an outlet. They can test for voltage (and usually polarity, to check that the outlet is wired correctly), though they’re unable to test circuits outside of an outlet.
- Multimeters with voltage testers are the best of both worlds, though they’re significantly larger than pen or outlet testers. They have grooves or hooks to surround a wire and detect voltage as well asleads (the wires and points connected to the tester) for testing contacts like outlets and terminals.
Functionality
In general, voltage testers are only useful for checking for alternating currents, such as the electricity in a dwelling or commercial building. They don’t help detect the direct current in a vehicle.
But that doesn’t mean that all voltage testers are one-trick ponies. Some pen testers have built-in features like flashlights, measuring lasers, and infrared thermometers. Many outlet testers can alert the user if the outlet’s wiring is backward. Multimeters can test for AC and DC voltage as well as resistance, amperage, and more.
Each user’s individual needs will determine which functions are necessary for a voltage detector. To simply test a wire for power, a pen tester can do the trick without confusing buttons or switches. If tackling a variety of electrical projects, a multimeter might be a real asset.
Compatibility
Voltage testers aren’t compatible with every electrical device a DIYer might come across. Certain types of voltage, or voltages outside of the range the tester can detect, won’t cause the tester to alert.
Pen and outlet testers are excellent for testing electricity within the home, including switches, outlets, and fixtures, but they’re typically useless when it comes to checking for issues with a vehicle’s electrical system. Many pen testers also have voltage working ranges—such as 90 to 1,000 volts—so some may not be able to detect low voltages.
If taking on electronic device repairs (computers, drones, or televisions, for example) or working on a vehicle, look for a multimeter with a built-in voltage tester. A multimeter can switch between alternating and direct current as well as test for resistance and amperage.
Longevity
For long-term use and durability, choose a voltage tester from one of the trusted manufacturers in the electrical tools industry. These companies specialize in creating electrical tools for pros, and their products are top-notch—many pros still use meters and testers they purchased decades ago.
Battery life is also a consideration. Many of the best voltage testers have automatic shut-off functions. If they don’t detect voltage within a certain amount of time (usually around 15 minutes), the tester will automatically shut off to prolong battery life.
Our Top Picks
With that background on what goes into choosing the best voltage tester, it’s time to start shopping. Below, DIYers will find details about some of the best voltage testers on the market—all from trusted brands that produce quality electrical tools and all of which have been put through their paces with hands-on testing.
Photo: amazon.com
Check out the Fluke 1AC II Non-Contact Voltage Tester—a quality pen tester from a leader in the electrical testing industry. This tester can detect voltage between 90 and 1,000 volts while fitting comfortably in a tool pouch or a pocket. When it detects voltage, the tip glows bright red as an alert.
The Fluke 1AC II voltage tester features a continuous self-test indicator that flashes red to alert that it’s working. It also has a loud, audible beep to indicate it is detecting power, but there is a disable function for quiet environments. This Fluke voltage tester runs on two included AAA batteries, and it features an automatic shutoff to save battery life.
This voltage tester was extremely easy to use during testing. The self-testing indicator is a handy feature as it constantly alerted that the tool was in fact working. It also quickly alerted to power when it was turned on (some models take a few seconds). It fits well in the tool bag, and the sturdy clip locked on easily. Turning it on with or without the beep (it depends on how long the button is held down) does take some getting used to, but it doesn’t impact its functionality.
Product Specs
- Design: Pen
- Testing range: 90 to 1,000 volts
- Actual size: 6 inches long by .625 inches wide by .75 inch deep
Pros
- Compact design fits inside a tool-bag pocket easily
- Self-test indicator alerts that it is running, preventing an accidental non-energized reading
- Audible voltage-detection alert gives a second method to determine that the circuit or device is energized
- Automatic shutoff conserves battery
Cons
- Toggling between beep and silent modes takes getting used to
Get the Fluke VoltAlert non-contact voltage tester on Amazon or at Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
Klein Tools produces top-notch tools for electrical professionals, and the Klein Tools NCVT-1 Non-Contact Voltage Tester lives up to the company’s legacy. It can test for voltage between 50 and 1,000 volts of alternating current, and it fits nicely in a pocket or pouch.
The NCVT-1 voltage tester uses an easy-to-understand red-and-green indicator to alert the user to power: green for no power and red for voltage. It also beeps steadily when it detects voltage. It features an automatic shutoff to stretch battery life and a low-battery indicator that alerts when the included AAA batteries are about to run out.
While it may drain batteries a bit faster than some other voltage testers, the constant green this tester emits when it’s on proved a nice touch during testing. It not only indicated that the model was working, but slightly illuminated dark spaces, too. We also liked that this tester is compact, measuring just 5.5 inches long, making it more than suitable for a tool box or bag. Also, the automatic shutoff turns off without a loud beep, saving energy and avoiding startling the user when working with an electrical device. The only complaint is that while the tail cap that retains the batteries is secure, there are gaps around the cap that prevent it from sealing completely.
Product Specs
- Design: Pen
- Testing range: 50 to 1,000 volts
- Actual size: 5.5 inches long by 0.7 inch wide by 1 inch deep
Pros
- Illuminated green-and-red detection indicator to clearly indicate whether the circuit is charged or not
- Automatic shutoff conserves battery life, ensuring it’s ready for use the next time it’s needed
- Compact size fits in tool belts, pockets, and bags
Cons
- Battery cap is secure but doesn’t seal off completely
Get the Klein Tools NCVT-1 voltage tester at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.
Photo: amazon.com
For a reliable, value-minded voltage tester, the STK001 Non-Contact Voltage Tester from Sperry Instruments is worth a look. This pen tester comes with a plug-in outlet tester, allowing users to test wires and outlets with one kit.
The pen tester detects voltages between 50 and 1,000 volts. When it detects voltage, it will beep loudly, and a clear plastic that houses the bulb will flash red. It runs on one AAA battery (included), and it has a low-battery indicator to ensure it’s working. The outlet tester will alert the user to voltage as well as open grounds, open neutrals, open hots, and reversed polarities. It can also test Ground Fault Circuit Interrupter (GFCI) outlets to ensure they’re working properly.
Our assessment of the Sperry kit is that it offers a lot of value for its price point. For a relatively low cost, consumers get two tools to detect voltage. The plug-in tester proved easy to use to make testing outlet wiring configurations a breeze. Also, tripping GFCIs is simple, requiring just the press of a button. However, the pen tester is extremely sensitive and occasionally alerts to voltage that isn’t present, but at least it errs on the side of caution.
Product Specs
- Design: Pen/outlet
- Testing range: 50 to 1,000 volts
- Actual size: 3 inches long by 1.5 inches wide by 1 inch deep
Pros
- Detects reversed polarities and open grounds, neutrals, and hots
- Tests GFCI with the simple touch of a button
- Affordable plug-in outlet tester/pen tester combination
- Audible and visual indicators inform whether the outlet is energized
Cons
- Pen tester is oversensitive and possibly a bit unreliable
Get the Sperry Instruments voltage tester on Amazon or at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
Often, electrical professionals need a fast way to test a wire and take a measurement without finding a junction or outlet. The Fluke T6-1000 Pro Electrical Tester multimeter’s Field Sense setting not only detects voltage, but it also measures that voltage without disconnecting connections. Simply slide the testing fork over the wire, and the T6-1000 will report on that wire’s condition.
The T6-1000 features all the other common settings expected from a multimeter, including both DC and AC, amperage, and resistance measurements. This durable voltage tester comes with alligator clips, swappable test leads, and a holster to keep it close at hand.
As a multimeter, the T6-1000 works just as we expected it to, providing readings on voltage, resistance, and amperage as well as hertz (helpful for electrical motor service and other equipment). The fact that it can indicate the presence of voltage between the forks is a nice benefit, allowing it to serve as a noncontact tester as well as a standard multimeter. However, in our experience, the actual voltage readings weren’t nearly as accurate as those of the regular leads. For user convenience, it comes with a holster, swappable leads, and alligator clips for easy transport.
Product Specs
- Design: Multimeter
- Testing range: Up to 1,000 volts
- Actual size: 11 inches long by 3 inches wide by 2 inches deep
Pros
- Measures DC, AC, amperage, and resistance measurements with test leads
- Performs touch-free voltage measurements
- Included holster and alligator clips for flexibility and easy transporting
Cons
- Noncontact voltage readings aren’t as accurate as those of the leads
Get the Fluke T6-1000 voltage tester on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
For electrical work around equipment that runs a bit hot, such as boilers, furnaces, and industrial equipment, the NCVT-4IR voltage tester from Klein Tools is a smart choice. In addition to detecting voltages within a range of 12 to 1,000 volts, this model features a built-in infrared thermometer. The thermometer can detect temperatures between -22 and 482 degrees Fahrenheit, providing safe, hands-free temperature checks.
The pen tester features a two-color LED system: blue to indicate that it’s workingand red when it detects voltage. The infrared thermometer has a built-in laser pointer that makes precise measurements easier to achieve. Both functions run on two AAA batteries, and there’s a built-in shutoff to preserve their life.
While the NCVT-4IR pen tester—an infrared thermometer and noncontact tester into one tool—is designed for HVAC mechanics and technicians, DIYers ought to appreciate it as well. In testing, the laser was easy to use, though slightly weaker than we would’ve liked. This model had the best range, though, detecting lower voltages than the others tested. It is fairly bulky compared to other pen-size models, but that bulk might be considered a benefit, since this model is resistant to dust and water penetration and proved unaffected by either during our test.
Product Specs
- Design: Pen
- Testing range: 12 to 1,000 volts
- Actual size: 6.25 inches long by 1 inch wide by 1 inch deep
Pros
- Infrared thermometer detects temperatures of -22 to 482 degrees Fahrenheit
- 2 tools in 1
- Low voltage detection as low as 12 volts; useful for some electronics
- IP54 rating resists dust and water penetration
Cons
- Fairly bulky compared to other pen testers
Get the Klein Tools NCVT-4IR voltage tester on Amazon or at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
Folks who want to ensure they can see exactly where and what they are testing should check out Greenlee’s Non-Contact Voltage Detector. This model has a built-in flashlight that the user can turn on when needed to see into dark corners or spaces.
This model can detect voltage between 50 and 1,000 volts AC. In normal, powered-on mode, it flashes red to indicate that it’s working. Upon detecting voltage, the red LED flashes rapidly and the model beeps, indicating that there is power present. The automatic shutoff turns the pen tester off after 5 minutes of inactivity, and its rubberized grip makes holding onto it a bit easier to manage.
We found quite a bit to like about the Greenlee during testing. First, the rubberized texture makes holding this model comfortable and less likely to slip. Also, the flashlight illuminates darker spaces enough to find the wires, outlet, or device that needs testing. We particularly liked the size, as it’s one of the most slender models going and fits well in a shirt pocket or tool bag. We would prefer that the LED light change color upon detecting voltage, but the rapid flash and beep work well.
Product Specs
- Design: Pen
- Testing range: 50 to 1,000 VAC
- Actual size: 6 inches long by .75 inch wide by .75 inchesdeep
Pros
- Rubberized grip for comfortable, nonslip use
- Built-in flashlight so users can see what they’re testing
- Slender size fits well in a shirt pocket or tool bag
Cons
- A color-changing indicator might be preferable to rapid-flashing LED and beep
Get the Greenlee voltage tester on Amazon or at Grainger.
Photo: amazon.com
Whether it’s a spare to toss in a tool bag or the main voltage tester a technician keeps in a shirt pocket, the Ideal Industries 40-1000V AV Volt Aware NCVT is a worthy choice. This model isn’t much larger than a typical magic marker, so it fits easily within most clothing pockets and can even slip into a pencil pocket in a tool bag or tool belt.
This tester can detect voltage between 40 and 1,000 volts AC. It has a green steady light that indicates when it’s onas well as a red flashing light and beep that indicates when it detects electricity. The rubberized body prevents slipping out of the hand, and the silence/beep toggle button near the tip is easy to access and use.
We found it so handy to tote this tester in either a shirt pocket or the one on our tool belt because it’s not just compact, but also rounded, taking up less space than a square-cornered model. We also liked the twist-on and twist-off function for a more tactile response than pressing a standard on/off switch, and the rubber grip makes grabbing it out of a pocket a breeze. The pocket clip is pretty flimsy, however, so should it break off, the cylindrical tester might easily roll off a table or shelf.
Product Specs
- Design: Pen
- Testing range: 40 to 1,000 volts AC
- Actual size: 5.75 inches long by .625 inch in diameter
Pros
- Compact and rounded—fits neatly in shirt/tool-bag pocket
- Twist-on/twist-off function better feel than push button
- Rubberized grip comfortable; makes for easy retrieving
Cons
- Flimsy clip could break, allowing rounded tester to roll away
Get the Ideal Industries voltage tester on Amazon.
Photo: amazon.com
While most pen testers will clip to a pants pocket or fit inside a shirt pocket, bulky models won’t feel comfortable to carry that way. Enter the 2AC Non-Contact Voltage Tester from Fluke. This pen tester measures just 5.75 inches long and .75 inch in diameter, allowing it to slide into a pocket with ease. It also weighs just 10.6 ounces, meaning it won’t feel heavy clipped to a shirt.
The Fluke 2AC voltage tester detects voltages between 90 and 1,000 volts, and it glows red to indicate it detects voltage. However, while the product description claims that the tester also beeps upon voltage detection, the model we used did not (some online consumers had the same complaint). The lack of an audible beep was somewhat of a letdown, as all the other models tested have that capability. But this model doesn’t have an on/off switch, which means it’s always in “on” mode for easy use. And since there’s a built-in battery indicator and automatic shutoff, it should not drain its two AAA batteries.
Product Specs
- Design: Pen
- Testing range: 90 to 1,000 volts
- Actual size: 5.75 inches long by .75 inch in diameter
Pros
- Compact and thin to transport easily in pockets or bags
- Visual indicators alert to the presence of power
- No “on” button—always ready to use
Cons
Get the Fluke 2AC voltage tester on Amazon.
Our Verdict
Folks looking for an all-around capable pen tester will want to consider the Fluke VoltAlert non-contact voltage tester for its relatively compact design and its ability to quickly turn on and test for electricity. However, those in the market for a tester that can light up dark spaces—helpful to see exactly what they’re testing—can check out the Greenlee voltage tester.
How We Tested the Best Voltage Testers
We wanted to ensure that we were suggesting only the best voltage testers, so we did our homework. We performed extensive product research to collect some of the best models on the market and then performed hands-on testing to put them through the paces.
Our initial tests included using each model on outlets around the house, as well as appliance wires, including those that were plugged in and those that weren’t. We also used each model to test a 240-volt dryer outlet (except the plug-in model, of course).
Then, each model was tested for fit in a tool bag and shirt pocket, ensuring they were compact and easy to transport.We even measured each model to provide an accurate depiction of their real size, not the packaging dimensions most sites provide.
Models with extra features (like the thermometer, flashlight, and different settings on the multimeter) were also tested accordingly to see if those bells and whistles performed as promised. Models that passed our tests were given awards based on their strengths. Those that failed the tests were discarded. The result was this lineup of the best voltage testers.
FAQs
Those who still have some questions about choosing or using the best voltage tester will want to consider the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about these tool kit essentials. Find more vital info here to make an informed purchase.
Q. Is a voltage tester the same as a multimeter?
No, voltage testers and multimeters are not the same, though some multimeters feature voltage testers. Voltage testers indicate only the presence of voltage. Multimeters can test the amount of voltage, amperage, or resistance in a fixture or circuit.
Q. Are voltage testers safe?
Yes, voltage testers are safety tools, and they’re safe to use. They have insulation to protect against current transfer so the tester can’t transfer electricity to the user’s body.
Q. How do I know if the tester is functioning?
Most voltage testers feature battery indicators that automatically alert you to advise that the tester is working. Others might require you to activate the battery test. If you’re unsure, check an outlet you know is working to ensure the tester is functioning.
