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HVAC clamp meters need more than a large current rating. Compare the specific functions needed on the job: inrush for motor startup, capacitance for capacitors, DC microamps for flame sensing, temperature inputs and safety category. A wireless connection or swivel head can help with access and recording, but neither replaces a correct electrical isolation procedure. Prices below are current observed US retailer prices or ranges for the stated meter only. Also match jaw capacity, current range, leads, and safety category to the equipment you service. Check the manual before testing energized circuits.
| # | Product | Price | Where to buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fieldpiece SC260 | $160.65-$189.00 | Amazon · eBay |
| 2 | Fieldpiece SC440 | $236.30-$278.00 | Amazon · eBay |
| 3 | Fieldpiece SC480 | $373.15-$439.00 | Amazon · eBay |
| 4 | Fieldpiece SC640 | $289.00-$340.00 | Amazon · eBay |
| 5 | Fieldpiece SC680 | $443.70-$522.00 | Amazon · eBay |
| 6 | Fluke 902 FC | $407.99 | Amazon · eBay |
| 7 | Fluke 323 | $207.99 | Amazon · eBay |
| 8 | Fluke 324 | $220-$300 | Amazon · eBay |
| 9 | Klein Tools CL440 | $120-$180 | Amazon |
| 10 | UEi DL429B | $120-$190 | Amazon · eBay |
The picks, in detail
Fieldpiece SC260
Fieldpiece SC260 is the compact 400 A True-RMS choice. Its 2020 line sheet lists a magnetic hanger, temperature, 4 mF capacitance and CAT III 600 V rating, making it a smaller HVACR meter rather than a dual-display diagnostic model.
- 400 A AC clamp range
- Magnetic hanger and temperature measurement
- CAT III 600 V safety category
- Magnetic hanger suits compact HVACR checks
- Temperature input adds an HVACR troubleshooting measurement.
- 400 A limit is below the 600 A models
Fieldpiece SC440
Fieldpiece SC440 adds a dual display, inrush capture, 500 microamps DC and 5 mF capacitance to the 400 A True-RMS format. This is the Fieldpiece option for flame-sensor and capacitor checks without stepping up to the wireless power models.
- 400 A clamp with True-RMS measurement
- Dual display with inrush-current capture
- 500 microamps DC and 5 mF capacitance
- Separate numerical display helps compare two readings
- Inrush capture helps document startup current.
- It has no wireless Job Link connection
Fieldpiece SC480
Fieldpiece SC480 is the 600 A Job Link wireless power clamp in this list. The retailer specification identifies 750 V AC, 1000 V DC, low-pass filtering and two-lead phase rotation, features aimed at broader electrical diagnostics.
- 600 A wireless HVACR power clamp
- Low-pass filter for VFD work
- Two-lead phase-rotation verification
- Job Link adds a documented wireless workflow
- Phase rotation check reduces need for a separate tester.
- Higher price than the 400 A Fieldpiece models
Fieldpiece SC640
Fieldpiece SC640 combines True-RMS measurement with a swivel clamp head and dual display. It includes test leads, a K-type thermocouple and magnetic strap; its inrush function is intended for motor and compressor startup checks.
- Swivel head for panel visibility
- Dual display and inrush measurement
- K-type thermocouple and magnetic strap included
- Rotating head improves sightlines in tight panels
- Included strap frees a hand during measurement.
- It lacks the SC480’s wireless Job Link connection
Fieldpiece SC680
Fieldpiece SC680 is a 600 A AC/DC swivel-head power clamp with a dual display and low-pass filter. It is the highest-priced Fieldpiece option here and suits technicians who need the wider 1000 V DC specification.
- 600 A AC/DC clamp measurement
- Swivel head with dual display
- Low-pass filter and 1000 V DC capability
- AC and DC clamp measurement broaden motor checks
- 1000 V DC range reaches beyond basic AC-only clamps.
- Its size and cost are substantial for basic checks
Fluke 902 FC
Fluke 902 FC is an HVAC-specific wireless True-RMS clamp meter. Fluke specifies 600 A AC, 600 V AC/DC, 200 microamps DC for flame rods, 1000 microfarads capacitance and CAT III 600 V/CAT IV 300 V safety ratings.
- Fluke Connect wireless measurement sharing
- 200 microamps DC flame-rod range
- 600 A AC with 1000 microfarads capacitance
- Fluke Connect can transmit readings away from a live panel
- Microamp flame-rod range supports furnace diagnostic work.
- The premium price exceeds a basic electrical clamp meter
Fluke 323
Fluke 323 is a basic True-RMS clamp meter for electrical troubleshooting, not a full HVAC feature set. Fluke lists 400 A AC current, 600 V AC/DC and resistance to 4 kilohms, but no capacitance, temperature or microamp function.
- 400 A AC current clamp
- 600 V AC and DC voltage measurement
- Resistance to 4 kilohms with continuity
- Lower-cost Fluke entry for current and voltage work
- AC and DC voltage coverage broadens basic electrical checks.
- No temperature, capacitance or microamp functions
Fluke 324
Fluke 324 extends the basic Fluke clamp-meter layout with temperature and capacitance functions. It is a practical middle option when those two HVAC measurements matter, but verify the kit contents because accessory probes vary by seller.
- True-RMS clamp meter
- Temperature and capacitance functions
- Separate model from the simpler Fluke 323
- Temperature and capacitance add HVAC-relevant functions
- True-RMS measurement distinguishes it from a basic clamp meter.
- It lacks the wireless connection of the 902 FC
Klein Tools CL440
Klein CL440 is a 600 A HVAC True-RMS clamp meter with a two-inch jaw. Klein includes right-angle leads, alligator clips, a K-type thermocouple, pouch and batteries; it measures DC microamps, inrush and capacitance to 6 mF.
- 600 A current and 2-inch jaw
- DC microamps, inrush and temperature
- CAT IV 600 V and CAT III 750 V ratings
- The supplied thermocouple and clips reduce accessory purchases
- CAT IV 600 V rating covers higher-installation-category work.
- No wireless data logging or smartphone link
UEi DL429B
UEi DL429B is a wireless HVAC clamp with two temperature inputs, differential-temperature mode and a detachable head. Its manufacturer lists 600 A AC/DC, 2000 microamps AC/DC, 2000 microfarads capacitance, CAT III 600 V and a supplied case.
- Wireless app connection and dual display
- Two temperature inputs with differential mode
- 600 A AC/DC and 2000 microamps AC/DC
- Differential temperature is available from two included probe inputs
- AC and DC clamp range supports more than line-current checks.
- The CAT III 600 V rating is lower than Klein’s CAT IV 600 V rating
Buying tips
- Match the meter safety category to the circuits being tested.
- Use the jaw only on the intended conductor and follow the meter manual.
- Check whether a temperature probe, leads and case are included.
- Choose capacitance and microamp ranges only when the service task needs them.
- De-energize and verify equipment using proper lockout procedures.
As an Amazon Associate and eBay Partner, toptenpick.com earns from qualifying purchases. Prices and availability are subject to change.