Ohmmeter vs. Multimeter — What's the Difference?
Edited by Tayyaba Rehman — By Maham Liaqat — Updated on March 7, 2024
Ohmmeters measure electrical resistance, while multimeters are versatile tools that measure resistance, voltage, and current.
Difference Between Ohmmeter and Multimeter
Table of Contents
ADVERTISEMENT
Key Differences
Ohmmeters are specialized instruments designed exclusively for measuring electrical resistance, typically in ohms. They are essential for identifying the continuity and integrity of electrical circuits and components. On the other hand, multimeters, also known as multitesters, are versatile devices that can measure multiple electrical properties, including voltage (volts), current (amps), and resistance (ohms). Multimeters are invaluable in troubleshooting a wide range of electrical and electronic devices due to their multifunctionality.
While ohmmeters are used primarily by electricians and electronic technicians to test electrical connectivity and resistance levels in circuits and devices, multimeters provide a broader range of applications. They are used not only for electrical troubleshooting but also for complex diagnostic tasks in various fields, such as automotive repair, household appliance maintenance, and research and development.
An ohmmeter operates by sending a small current through the component being tested to measure its resistance, whereas a multimeter can switch functions to measure voltage, current, or resistance, depending on the user's requirements. This adaptability makes multimeters more practical for users who need to perform multiple types of measurements.
Ohmmeters are often simpler to use due to their single-function nature, which might be preferable for beginners or for tasks that require only resistance measurements. In contrast, multimeters, with their multiple functions and settings, might require a bit more knowledge and experience to use effectively but offer greater utility.
In terms of cost, ohmmeters can be more affordable since they are specialized for one function, while the price of multimeters can vary widely based on their features, accuracy, and reliability, making them potentially more expensive but also more versatile.
ADVERTISEMENT
Comparison Chart
Primary Function
Measures electrical resistance
Measures voltage, current, and resistance
Use Cases
Testing electrical continuity and resistance levels
Troubleshooting electrical and electronic devices, automotive repair, household appliance maintenance
Operation
Sends a small current to measure resistance
Can switch between functions to measure different electrical properties
User Friendliness
Simpler, good for beginners
Requires more knowledge due to multiple functions
Cost
Generally more affordable
Price varies widely, potentially more expensive due to versatility
Compare with Definitions
Ohmmeter
A tool to test the continuity of electrical circuits.
Using an ohmmeter, the electrician verified the wiring was properly connected.
Multimeter
A versatile instrument that measures voltage, current, and resistance.
The engineer used a multimeter to troubleshoot the circuit board issue.
Ohmmeter
An instrument used in electronic repair to diagnose component failures.
The ohmmeter indicated a high resistance value, suggesting a faulty resistor.
Multimeter
A device capable of performing diagnostic tests on batteries, wiring, and electrical components.
Using the multimeter, the mechanic checked the car battery's voltage.
Ohmmeter
A simple, single-function electrical measurement device.
The ohmmeter is ideal for quick resistance checks in the field.
Multimeter
A handheld device that combines several measurement functions in one unit.
The compact multimeter fit easily into the technician's tool bag.
Ohmmeter
A device for measuring electrical resistance in ohms.
The technician used an ohmmeter to check the speaker's resistance.
Multimeter
An essential tool for electricians and technicians in various industries.
The HVAC technician relied on his multimeter to diagnose the system's electrical problems.
Ohmmeter
A key tool in electrical and electronic education for understanding Ohm's Law.
The students used an ohmmeter in their lab to study the principles of electrical resistance.
Multimeter
An advanced tool with capabilities for continuity, diode testing, and more.
The multimeter's continuity test feature helped to quickly identify broken wires.
Ohmmeter
An ohmmeter is an electrical instrument that measures electrical resistance (the opposition offered by a circuit or component to the flow of electric current). Multimeters also function as ohmmeters when in resistance-measuring mode.
Multimeter
A multimeter is a measuring instrument that can measure multiple electrical properties. A typical multimeter can measure voltage, resistance, and current, in which case it is also known as a volt-ohm-milliammeter (VOM), as the unit is equipped with voltmeter, ammeter, and ohmmeter functionality.
Ohmmeter
An instrument for measuring directly the resistances of conductors in ohms.
Multimeter
An instrument that combines an ammeter, an ohmmeter, a voltmeter, and occasionally other measurement or testing devices into one unit.
Ohmmeter
(physics) A portable device for measuring relatively small values of electrical resistance.
Multimeter
An electronic measuring instrument that combines multiple functions; a combined voltmeter, ammeter and ohmmeter.
Ohmmeter
An instrument for indicating directly the electrical resistance of a circuit in ohms.
Ohmmeter
A meter for measuring electrical resistance in ohms
Common Curiosities
Is an ohmmeter used for testing voltage?
No, an ohmmeter is used solely for measuring resistance, not voltage.
Can a multimeter measure resistance?
Yes, a multimeter can measure resistance in addition to voltage and current.
How does a multimeter differ from an ohmmeter?
A multimeter can measure multiple electrical properties, including voltage, current, and resistance, while an ohmmeter only measures resistance.
Can a multimeter be used as an ohmmeter?
Yes, when set to the resistance measurement function, a multimeter acts as an ohmmeter.
Do professionals prefer multimeters or ohmmeters?
Professionals often prefer multimeters for their versatility, though ohmmeters may be used for specific tasks focused on resistance measurement.
What does an ohmmeter measure?
An ohmmeter measures electrical resistance in ohms.
What is the primary advantage of a multimeter over an ohmmeter?
The primary advantage is its versatility, as it can measure various electrical properties beyond just resistance.
Can an ohmmeter measure continuity?
Yes, ohmmeters can be used to check for continuity by measuring if the resistance is low or near zero.
How do you read an ohmmeter?
An ohmmeter is read by observing the resistance value displayed, usually in ohms, after connecting it across a component or circuit.
Are multimeters safe to use on live circuits?
Yes, multimeters are designed to safely measure live circuits, but proper safety procedures should always be followed.
What should I consider when buying a multimeter?
Consider factors such as measurement capabilities, accuracy, durability, and any additional features like a backlit display or data logging.
Are digital multimeters better than analog ohmmeters?
Digital multimeters offer more precision and features compared to analog ohmmeters, making them more versatile and easier to read.
Can ohmmeters and multimeters be used on all types of electrical equipment?
Yes, but it's important to ensure the device is set to the appropriate measurement scale and that it's safe to use on the specific equipment.
How does temperature affect ohmmeter readings?
Temperature can affect resistance readings, as most materials change their resistance with temperature; ohmmeters might show varied readings depending on the ambient and component temperatures.
Are there wireless multimeters?
Yes, there are wireless or Bluetooth multimeters that allow for remote monitoring and data logging via a smartphone or computer.
Share Your Discovery
Previous Comparison
Sacrifice vs. Dedication
Next Comparison
Synthesized vs. SynthetizedAuthor Spotlight
Written by
Maham Liaqat
Edited by
Tayyaba RehmanTayyaba Rehman is a distinguished writer, currently serving as a primary contributor to askdifference.com. As a researcher in semantics and etymology, Tayyaba's passion for the complexity of languages and their distinctions has found a perfect home on the platform. Tayyaba delves into the intricacies of language, distinguishing between commonly confused words and phrases, thereby providing clarity for readers worldwide.
