Which Is Better Fluke 17B vs Fluke 117
If you’re looking for a multimeter to conduct a variety of DIY projects around the house or complete your set of industrial diagnosis tools, choosing between the Fluke 17B vs. 117 is a great place to start.
Though these instruments are designed to fulfill a general-purpose in the market, the levels of satisfaction enjoyed can depend on the capabilities of your final choice. This review is designed to help you identify the various differences and similarities between the Fluke 17B vs. 117, in a bid to help you make a well-informed decision.
Differences between Fluke 17B vs. 117 – How do they compare?
| Model | Fluke 17B | Fluke 117 |
| True RMS | No | Yes |
| Safety Ratings | CAT III 300V | CAT III 600V |
| Non-contact voltage detection | No | Yes |
| Bar graph | No | Yes |
Fluke 17B vs. 117: What is the Difference?
Availability and Target Audience
The first noticeable difference between these two alternatives is their target audience, to the device’s availability. The Fluke 117 highly rates its American roots and is mainly produced for this market, as well as on an international scale.
I see this in its packaging, where the contents have tried to incorporate a global feel with its presentation. It’s also easily available in a variety of stores around the country, as well as on various online platforms.
The Fluke 17B has its focus on the local Chinese market. Its packaging entails a large section of the information provided in Chinese – including the content printed on the box that portrays this.
It’s also primarily available in this country when seeking a physical outlet, with very few if any stores outside the region offering this product for sale. This multimeter can still be acquired from online platforms such as eBay and Amazon, however, if you’re fully intent on purchasing this particular model.
Average Response Times and Safety Ratings
Another crucial difference between the two devices is the speed at which both multimeters can provide results during diagnosis. It has been noted that Fluke 17B takes a few extra seconds to produce its data, as compared to the 117 counterpart, which boasts almost instantaneous results.
This might not be a serious issue when dealing with DIY projects around your home, but it can be slightly annoying with commercial applications – especially when working under pressure.
Though a few seconds may seem like an insignificant amount of time to an amateur, it can get on your nerves if you have previously worked with faster models in the market industrially. We can also view this slower reaction time as a negative portrayal of the diagnostic capabilities of the 17B as compared to other alternatives.
Think of it this way; faster computers are seen as one of the industry standards in determining the strength and capabilities of products in this sector. I can say the same when judging the capacity of a multimeter’s system.
Accuracy
The levels of accuracy available with the Fluke 117 exceed those of its 17B counterpart. Though the precision of the latter is not so bad that it’s unbearable, it will not measure up to users with vital industrial needs.
Working on equipment such as HVAC systems requires a level of accuracy that is not available from an average response multimeter. This is due to the fact that you might encounter a variety of waveforms when conducting your diagnosis – which might have an adverse effect on the accuracy levels enjoyed, depending on the type encountered.
Fluke 117 comes with True RMS capabilities, which is the best solution for measuring distorted waves. Though both alternatives will offer the same precision with regular sin waves, variations such as square and single-phase alternatives can prove to be an obstacle for the average response multimeter.
Warranty
Another crucial element to take into consideration when looking at these two alternatives is the warranty available with the products. Both the Fluke 17B and 177 come with reliable warranties that are provided by the manufacturer.
However, it should be noted that the intended target audiences for the instruments play a big role in the kind of coverage on offer. As mentioned earlier, the Fluke 17B is mainly aimed at the Chinese domestic market, as portrayed by its availability and prevalent language.
The Fluke 117 also offers a longer warranty of 3 years, compared to the one year that comes with the 17B alternative.
Additional Features
Both the Fluke 117 and 17B come with attractive additions that are not present with some other alternatives. If your work entails dealing with many temperature measurements, for instance, then the 17B might be right up your alley.
This model comes equipped with thermo-sensors that ensure you can measure temperature levels whenever needed. It’s crucial to note that not many multimeters come with this specification, so if this is a feature you’re highly interested in, you will have to make a point of ensuring this element is listed with the specifications.
Batteries
Fluke 17B vs. 117 Review
Fluke 17B
The Fluke 17B is one of the simpler multimeters on offer with the Fluke range of products. One of the primary things that should be noted about this model is that it comes with an average response reader, which is not very helpful when dealing with distorted waveforms.
However, it’s a great option for those looking to perform simple DIY tasks around the house. The instrument also features an ergonomic design that is comfortable to hold and promotes one-handed use.
The sturdy design of its casing is also quite attractive and ensures that the tool can take quite a beating before succumbing to external elements.
Pros
- It’s one of the more affordable options in the market
- Temperature measuring capabilities
- Easily accessible battery compartment
Cons
- Doesn’t entail True RMS capabilities
- It’s mainly designed for the local Chinese market, making it hard to purchase elsewhere
- Doesn’t feature an analog bar graph
Fluke 117
The Fluke 117 is a great option for those looking to use their instrument for general light industrial applications and DIY projects. It offers greater accuracy levels than its counterpart and features True RMS, which is excellent for enhancing accurate readings with distorted waveforms.
Its non-contact voltage detection system (AlertVolt) also enhances the levels of safety that can be enjoyed by the user when identifying the presence of a live current. It also features auto-ranging capabilities and min/max readings, which assists the user when dealing with highly fluctuating values.
Pros
- True RMS reader
- Features min/max function
- Speedy response times
- Reliable warranty
Cons
- It’s significantly more expensive than the 17B alternative
- Doesn’t measure temperature
The Final Verdict
A closer look at both alternatives reveals that the Fluke 117 represents the better option when looking for higher levels of accuracy at better response times.
It also comes with a variety of additional features that are not present with the Fluke 17B, including min/max readings and non-contact voltage detection.
The 17B is a good alternative when looking for an instrument you can use around the house occasionally. However, if you plan on implementing commercial projects with your tools, choosing the current version is the better option for your needs.
Questions
Does the 117 Come with Temperature Measuring Capabilities?
No. However, a few alternatives from the Fluke product line offer this category and exhibit similar qualities in range and design as the 117 models.
Can I Use the Fluke 17 B with American Equipment?
Yes. The product’s availability in this region is this model’s primary obstacle.
How Long Are the Warranties Provided with These Products?
The Fluke 17B offers a limited warranty that lasts for a year, while the coverage on the 117 alternative is provided for three years.
How Can I Redeem My Fluke 17 B Warranty?
Contact the providers based in the region you have acquired the product from.
