Fluke 179 Multimeter Review: Accurate, Reliable, and Versatile

As an expert in testing multi testers with many years of experience, I have carefully studied and used the Fluke 179 Multimeter with Backlight. This device is well-known for its robust design and quick, accurate measurements. I have tested its manual and automatic ranging features, the handy Display Hold and Auto Hold functions, and the Min/Max-Average recording capabilities. My thorough research and hands-on experience with its backlit digital display, analog bar graph, and built-in thermometer make me confident to provide you with an honest and detailed review. This in-depth analysis will help you decide if the Fluke 179 is the right choice for your electrical and temperature measurement needs.

Pros & Cons

What We Loved

• ✅ True-RMS measurements for accurate readings
• ✅ Built-in thermometer with included thermocouple
• ✅ Backlit digital display with analog bar graph
• ✅ Manual and automatic ranging options
• ✅ Min/Max-Average recording and Auto Hold features
• ✅ Robust and durable design for industrial use

What Could Be Better

• ❌ Slightly higher price point
• ❌ Bulkier compared to basic multimeters
• ❌ Limited advanced data logging capabilities

Who Should Buy This

The Fluke 179 Multimeter is perfect for electricians, engineers, and technicians who need accurate and reliable measurements. It is great for those who work with electrical systems and want to measure voltage, current, resistance, and temperature in one tool. The backlight helps you work in dark places, and the true-RMS feature ensures precise readings on complex signals.

If you only need a simple multimeter for basic tasks, this model might be more than you need. It is also not ideal for hobbyists or beginners who want a cheaper and easier tool. The Fluke 179 is designed for professionals who require high-quality measurements and extra features.

Technical Specifications

Key Details

• Brand: Fluke
• Model: FLUKE-179 ESFP
• Size: 3.5″ x 16.5″ x 10.98″
• Weight: 0.661386786 lbs
• Material: Durable plastic housing
• Color Options: Yellow/Black
• Special Features: True-RMS AC current and voltage measurement, Built-in thermometer, Backlit display, Measures frequency, capacitance, resistance, continuity, and diode
• Warranty: Standard manufacturer warranty

Our Testing Experience

First Impressions

When I first opened the Fluke 179 Multimeter, I was impressed by its solid build and comfortable size. It felt sturdy and easy to hold, not too big or heavy. I started by testing some simple household circuits to get a feel for it. The backlit display made it easy to read even in dim light, and I appreciated how quickly it switched between manual and automatic ranging. Attaching the included thermocouple to measure temperature was straightforward, and I was curious to see how accurate that feature would be.

Daily Use

Using the Fluke 179 daily on various tasks became a real pleasure. Whether measuring AC voltage, checking resistance, or testing continuity, it was fast and reliable. The Display Hold and Auto Hold functions were lifesavers when I needed to note readings without having to keep staring at the screen. The built-in thermometer came in handy more than I expected – I used it to check the temperature of motors and wiring, which helped diagnose some overheating issues. The analog bar graph gave a quick visual reference that made it easy to track changes in voltage or current at a glance.

Key Features in Action

The True-RMS measurement really stood out when working with complex signals, giving me accurate readings that I could trust. The Min/Max-Average recording helped me capture fluctuating values over time without missing important data. I also liked the continuity beep and diode test – they made troubleshooting quick and simple. The combination of these features made the Fluke 179 much more than just a multimeter; it’s like having several tools in one device.

Long-Term Performance

After using the Fluke 179 for several months, it has proven to be very reliable and durable. The battery life is excellent, and the device has handled rough environments without any issues. The measurements stayed consistent, and the backlight and display have held up well. I feel confident recommending it to anyone who needs a professional-grade multimeter that’s easy to use and packed with useful features.

How It Compares

Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Fluke 179 Multimeter with Backlight, Includes Built-In Thermometer to Measure Temperature, Measures True-RMS AC Current and Voltage, Frequency, Capacitance, Resistance, Continuity and Diode	Extech EX570 Industrial Multimeter	Amprobe AM-570 Industrial Multimeter
Price	See Price	See Price	See Price
Quality	Robust, fast, and highly accurate with trusted Fluke durability and reliability	Solid build quality with rugged design, slightly less precise than Fluke but suitable for industrial environments	Durable construction, reliable for field use though slightly bulkier than Fluke 179
Features	True-RMS AC current and voltage, manual/auto ranging, backlit display, analog bar graph, built-in thermometer with thermocouple, Display Hold, Auto Hold, Min/Max-Average recording	True-RMS, manual/auto ranging, backlit LCD, temperature measurement via external probe, data hold, min/max recording	True-RMS, auto/manual ranging, backlit display, temperature measurement, continuity, diode test, limited data logging
Best For	Professional electricians and technicians needing precise measurements with temperature monitoring in industrial settings	Industrial technicians requiring a rugged multimeter with broad measurement functions at a competitive value	Field service professionals needing a versatile, user-friendly multimeter for general electrical troubleshooting

In my opinion, this Fluke 179 Multimeter with Backlight, Includes Built-In Thermometer to Measure Temperature, Measures True-RMS AC Current and Voltage, Frequency, Capacitance, Resistance, Continuity and Diode stands out because it combines superior accuracy, durability, and a comprehensive feature set including built-in temperature measurement with a thermocouple—all in a compact, user-friendly design. If you’re like me and prefer a trusted, professional-grade tool that offers precise and reliable readings for industrial and electrical tasks, this is the better choice.

Customer Feedback on Fluke 179 Multimeter with Backlight, Includes Built-In Thermometer to Measure Temperature, Measures True-RMS AC Current and Voltage, Frequency, Capacitance, Resistance, Continuity and Diode

Overall Satisfaction

Customers generally rate the Fluke 179 highly for its accuracy, durability, and versatility, reflecting strong overall satisfaction.

Most Praised Features

• Accurate True-RMS measurements for both AC current and voltage
• Built-in thermometer adds convenient temperature measurement
• Bright backlight and clear display for easy reading in low light

Common Concerns

• Higher price point compared to basic multimeters
• Some users find the device a bit bulky for pocket carry

Who Loves It Most

Electricians, HVAC technicians, and electronics professionals appreciate the Fluke 179 for its reliable performance and comprehensive measurement capabilities in demanding environments.

Is It Worth the Price?

Price Analysis

The Fluke 179 Multimeter is priced higher than many basic multimeters but remains competitive among premium True-RMS models with advanced features. Considering its robust build and multifunction capabilities, the price is fair rather than overpriced.

Value Features

• True-RMS measurement ensures accurate readings on complex signals, justifying the premium cost.
• Built-in thermometer with included thermocouple adds versatile temperature measurement without extra tools.
• Backlit digital display and analog bar graph improve readability in various lighting conditions, enhancing usability.
• Data recording functions like Min/Max-Average and Auto Hold save time and reduce guesswork during troubleshooting.

Vs. Competitors

Compared to other high-end multimeters, the Fluke 179 offers a more reliable brand reputation and a balanced feature set, often at a similar or slightly higher price point but with better durability and customer support.

Final Verdict

If you need a durable, accurate, and feature-rich multimeter for professional or serious hobbyist use, the Fluke 179 is worth the investment. Its added features and build quality justify the price for users seeking long-term value.