Fluke 323 and Fluke 324 both are clamp meters for electrical measurements. The main difference between a multimeter and a clamp meter is that you can use a clamp meter without worrying about cutting the wires. As Fluke 323 and 324 are both from the same series (same company), it is quite confusing to choose between these two. Clamp multimeters measure voltage, currents, continuity, and resistance with great accuracy. Read more in this post to help you understand Fluke 323 vs. 324.
Both these meters will offer you top-notch features and reliable performance with an ergonomic design. So, which one are you going to choose?
Measurement of the electrical difference between two devices that possess voltage in them is known as capacitance. Fluke 323 does not provide capacitance feature, whereas Fluke 324 meter provides capacitance feature. 324 can also measure the capacitance of 0 microfarad to 100 microfarad and 100 microfarad to 1000 microfarad (µF).
Fluke 323 vs 324 Review – Multimeter Comparisons
| Features | Fluke 323 | Fluke 324 |
| AC current Range & Accuracy | 400.0 A , 2% ± 5 digits (45 Hz to 65 Hz) 2.5% ± 5 digits (65 Hz to 400 Hz) | 40.00 A / 400.0 A , 1.5% ± 5 digits (45 Hz to 400 Hz) Note: Add 2% for position sensitivity |
| Continuity | ≤ 70 Ω | ≤ 30 Ω |
| Contact temperature | No | -10.0°C to 400.0°C (14.0°F to 752.0°F) |
| Backlight | No | Yes |
Fluke 323 vs 324 vs 325 Review
If you look at these three clamp meters with the naked eye, you can’t see much difference. When you look into the price, you can see there is a great difference. Why so? Because there are certain features unseen in the older versions.
All the versions have some common features. All the 323, 324, 325 clamp meters have AC Current checker up to 400A. Also the AC/DC voltage is same; 600V.
However, there is no capacitance, temperature and backlight are in play in 323 whereas, 324 and 325 both the meters have had them.
Fluke 325 comes with a frequency meter and DC current whereas the 323 and 324 don’t have these features at all.
Key features of Fluke 323 and Fluke 323 Review 2021 [True RMS Clamp Meter]
Fluke 323 is a basic troubleshooting clamp multimeter for commercial and residential electricians. Fluke 323 Meters measure ac and dc voltage, ac current, resistance, and continuity.
True RMS: As the Fluke 323 is a clamp meter instead of a premium multimeter, this is a great feature to have. What will you do with this feature, anyway? For instance, to get readings from a sine wave, a non tRMS will do the job perfectly. But in the cases of square waves, you will need a true RMS meter to get accurate readings.
What if you want to get readings of RMS value with square waves with a non tRMS meter? In that case, you won’t get 100% accurate results. Well, you will get results. But if you care for accuracy, you should not go for a non tRMS meter.
Can measure resistance: The 323 which is also noiseless, can also measure resistance. The figure here is 4000 Ohms. Although this figure may seem not much useful, this is not the case here. The purpose of the creation of 323 was to provide you a portable device eliminating every kind of risk. You will be able to measure up to 4000 Ohms. This is quite good and can almost cover every light and home task.
Can measure Continuity: You can also measure continuity with the Fluke 323. In terms of continuity, you will be able to get readings of any figure that is less than 70 Ohms. Again, these meters are not that good for heavy tasks. You have to use them in your home or to complete any light task. In these cases, the 70 Ohms figure will serve you just fine.
CAT IV safety rating: For what reasons do you need the CAT safety rating? With a CAT safety rating, you get a rough idea about how safe the meter you are using or going to use. The 323 has a CAT IV safety rating of 300V. Actually, CAT IV is the highest safety rating in terms of practical experiences.
For the most dangerous and highest level of overvoltage, technicians depend on these CAT IV-rated meters. If the device is not CAT IV rated, you can’t do any work when there is an overvoltage issue. That means our 323 is great for even industrial works in terms of overvoltage.
Features of the Fluke 323 Multimeter:specifications
- DC and AC voltage readings are 600 V
- AC current readings are 400 A
- Measures resistance to 4 kΩ with continuity detection
- It can read continuity of less than 70 Ω
- Features a CAT III 600 V, CAT IV 300 V safety rating
Pros and Cons of Fluke 323
Pros
- Can measure both AC and DC Voltage: Having an all-rounder product is always a plus. And if you have a product like Fluke 323 that can measure both AC and DC voltage, it will be amazing, isn’t it? Can also measure linear or non–linear loads.
- Good accuracy: As the 323 is a True RMS ac device, it is more accurate than the devices that are not tRMS. That means 323 Fluke is a born winner. But can you deal with situations where a slight difference in the readings can affect your work with the 323? Well, reviews say you can. 323 is fairly accurate to get the job done if you are craving for accuracy.
- Display hold: Fluke 323 has the display hold feature. As there is no Minimum/ maximum (min max )mode to give you a better idea about the reading, you can use the display hold as a proxy. You can freeze the readings manually with the use of the display hold feature. It will come in handy if you are in a dire situation where it is extremely necessary to hold a reading.
Cons
- Absence of backlit: This is a big deal-breaker for you if you need to work on night shifts. There is no backlit feature in the Fluke 323 meter to help you in the darks. In this case, either you have to use a separate light source or work on day shifts. And if the situation demand is extreme, you have to look for other options.
- The case is a bit tight: Too good is not good sometimes. Though a tight case may help protect the product better, it is not good for swift situations. Maybe you need something a bit flexible to get the job done quickly. The case of the 323 is a bit too tight (slim) for the job.
- Can’t measure DC-amps: Too pumped with the feature of ability to measure both AC and DC voltage? You should not. Fluke 323 can’t measure DC amps. Disappointed a bit? If this is a serious and deal-breaking point, you must choose another option.
Does Fluke 323 measure DC current?
No, Fluke 323 cannot measure DC current. In fact, 323 can measure AC/DC voltage, AC current, continuity, and resistance. But still, 323 does not measure DC current. The same goes with the Fluke 324 and 325.
How to use Fluke 323 Clamp Meter?
- Turn the dial to A ac or A dc and make sure the measurement is coming from the jaw by seeing the jaws icon on display.
- While taking the measurement of DC current, make sure your display is stabilized and push the zero button so that you can get correct readings.
- Press the jaw release level first, then open the jaws, and then insert a conductor so that it can be measured inside the jaw.
- Shut the jaw and use alignment marks on the jaw to center the conductor.
Check on the display to view the reading.
How do you check amps on a Fluke 323?
Fluke 324 Multimeter Review
Fluke 324 is the best RMS clamp meter and it can measure temperature and capacitance as well. It can easily sort all your troubleshooting problems and make your vehicle accurate and safe.
It comes with a two-year warranty so you don’t have to worry about the durability. It can measure temperature from -10 degree Celsius to 400 degree Celsius.
The maximum capacity to measure capacitance is 1000 µF. Fluke 324 can measure AC current up to 400 A and can measure AC/DC voltage up to 600V.
Fluke 324 Plus True RMS Clamp Meter: Just like the Fluke 323, Fluke 324 has also the feature of true RMS. You will get true RMS readings with 324 meter. And you know that it will help you a lot to get better accuracy with the readings.
Measure temperature: This is an addition to Fluke 323 in Fluke 324. It is one of the key features as to read temperature you will need a piece of totally different equipment. Who doesn’t love extra? In Fluke 324, a built-in feature will come along with it so that you can measure temperature without a thermometer in need. It can measure up to 400° Celsius from -10° Celsius.
Does have a backlit: Fluke 324 has a backlit display. Now you are relieved even if you have to work during night shifts. You don’t even need to worry about the lights as the large backlit display will give you enough visual to get an accurate reading. And in emergencies, when you have to work at night to cover some extra hours, this will be the perfect companion for you.
Measures Capacitance: This is a plus to the Fluke 323. Unlike Fluke 323, Fluke 324 can measure capacitance. It can measure up to 1000μF. You can cover the basic tasks with this capacitance range of Fluke 324.
Features of the Fluke 324 Multimeter
- It can read the resistance of 400 Ω / 4000 Ω
- DC and AC voltage readings are 600 V
- Measures capacitance to 1000μF
- AC current readings range from 40 to 400 A
- It can read data continuity of less than 30 Ω
- CAT III 600 V, CAT IV 300 V safety rating
- Measures temperature from -10C to 400C
| Contact Temperature | -10.0°C to 400.0°C (14.0°F to 752.0°F) |
|---|
Pros and Cons of Fluke 324
Pros
- Rugged build: The build quality of Fluke 324 is very strong. It is a rugged clamp meter. That is why you do not need to worry much about it while working in the field. Because the build quality ensures that this product stays protected while functioning.
- Able to measure both AC and DC voltage: Just like the Fluke 323, Fluke 324 can also measure both AC and DC voltage.
- The continuity sensor is audible: Not only Fluke 324 can measure continuity but also it has an audible sensor of continuity. In case of any security issues, you will hear beeps to determine the danger.
- Additional features: The functions of Fluke 324 is like a big brother of Fluke 323. It almost has all the features of 323 and some more. This can measure temperature and capacitance in addition to Fluke 323. And it does have a backlit large display too, in order to help the worker to work in darks.
Cons
- Lack of analysis of low temperature: Although Fluke 324 has a built-in feature to measure temperature, it is not a professional device to measure temperatures. Well, this is not the sole purpose of the clamp meter. But lack of analysis of low temperature makes it somewhat a weaker contender in the pathway to be a solid one.
- Costs more: It definitely costs more than 323 as it has some additional features along with the identical features of 323. It costs 1.5 times that of Fluke 323. But is it worth buying this clamp meter at this price compared to Fluke 323?
Fluke 324 Replacement Parts
Availability of replacement parts is a mandatory thing to ensure the self-maintenance of your vehicle. All the replacement parts of Fluke 324 are available everywhere with the original quality to make sure of peak performance. You will need to find an authorized Fluke service center to get the quality parts to return to your best performance once again..
How to use Fluke 324?
You can learn that by following this manual: Fluke 324 Multimeter Manual
Basic differences between Fluke 323 vs. 324
So, what is the difference between Fluke 323 and 324? We have stated the information about key features along with the pros and cons of these two meters. Let’s have a look at some basic differences between these two products. Hope it will help you decide easily.
- Temperature: It’s a plus for Fluke 324. Fluke 324 is the winner here as it has a built-in feature to measure temperature. But Fluke 323 doesn’t have this feature. It can’t measure temperature.
- Backlit: 323 loses another time in this section. It doesn’t have a backlit display to help someone work in the dark. On the other hand, Fluke 324 has a large display with a backlit feature. For this reason, nobody has to worry about working in a low light condition.
- Capacitance: Fluke 324 wins again by providing another extra feature. Yes, you can measure capacitance with this meter too. But it is unable to measure capacitance. That is another reason for this meter to remain the underdog in the battle.
- Price: You are having some additional features along with almost the same features as Fluke 323 in Fluke 324. Now, can you buy Fluke 324 at less price? Definitely not. But the pricing does not seem to be fair to us. it sells at around $120 while you have to pay $185 to get your hands on a Fluke 324. It is almost 1.5 times more than the price of Fluke 323.
Build Quality: Both these products come from Fluke. A brand that is renowned for its durable products. Fluke 324 is a little bit durable if you compare these two meters closely. It has a rugged build. So, Fluke 324 is the winner again.
You can also check out the comparison between Fluke 289 vs 87V because 87V is not the same league as your 289 and the Fluke 289 is a step up from the 87V (87-5). Comparison Summary of Fluke 179 vs 87v Digital Multimeters.
Recommendation: Which one is better Fluke 323 clamp meter or Fluke 324 clamp meter
If you see the ‘basic differences’ section, you know clearly who is the winner in this battle. Yes, we give our vote to Fluke 324. As Fluke meters have reputation for their durability, we think paying some extra bucks for some more features is totally worth it. You are going to have temperature measurement and backlit display feature in addition at least.
On the other hand, it is not a bad clamp meter by any means. It is a pretty durable and accurate results-giving product from Fluke. Although you are not going to have more features like Fluke 324, you can easily complete almost every basic and home task with it.
We have tried our best to provide the necessary information to help you decide easily. But if you have any queries left, you are welcome in the comment box.
Can you test a purge valve? Yes, with a multimeter, you can measure the resistance of the purge valve
Is your CDI Box Troubleshooting then test the side that comes from the stator rather than the side heading to the CDI box
How to use a clamp meter
FAQs
What is the best Fluke Clamp meter?
There are many great clamp meters that Fluke has produced. Among them, we can say Fluke 376 FC may be the best deal for you. You will get pretty much every feature of premium multimeters from it.
Does Fluke 324 measure DC Current?
No, Fluke 324 doesn’t measure DC current. But it can measure AC current up to the figure of 400A.
Does Fluke 323 Measure millivolts?
Yes, measure ac and dc voltage, ac current, resistance, and continuity.
Does Fluke 323 Measure milliamps?
The Fluke 323 cannot read milliamps.
Should I buy a clamp meter or a multimeter?
If you are going to do basic and home tasks, a clamp meter will fulfill each and every need of yours. Otherwise, for professional tasks, a multimeter is a must.
Which brand clamp meter is best?
Although we know Fluke for their premium multimeters, no one can even beat them in the business too. You can go for the Fluke meters, without any hesitation.
