Last Updated on September 14, 2025

When it comes to digital multimeters, few names are as respected as Fluke, and among their extensive lineup, the Fluke 179 stands out as a favorite among professionals and serious hobbyists. In this Fluke 179 Review, we’ll take a closer look at why this model has earned a reputation for accuracy, durability, and reliability in both industrial and residential applications.

The Fluke 179 belongs to the brand’s well-regarded 170 series, which is designed to deliver precise measurements in demanding environments. What sets this model apart is its True-RMS capability, rugged build, wide measurement range, and additional features like built-in temperature measurement—all of which make it more versatile than many competing multimeters on the market.

Related: Similar manual and auto-ranging – Fluke 87V Multimeter Revie

This review will be divided into six clear parts to give you a complete understanding of the tool. We’ll cover:

• An overview of the Fluke 179 and its market positioning
• Detailed specifications and key features
• Real-world performance and use cases
• Pros and cons of using the Fluke 179
• Comparisons with other Fluke models and competitors
• A final verdict with a call-to-action

Whether you’re an electrician troubleshooting electrical panels, an HVAC technician working with temperature-sensitive systems, or an electronics enthusiast seeking accurate results, this Fluke 179 Review will help you decide if it’s the right tool for your needs.

Overview & Market Positioning

Where the Fluke 179 Fits in the Market

The Fluke 179 is part of Fluke’s professional 170-series multimeters, which are widely known for combining accuracy, safety, and ease of use. Positioned above the Fluke 175 and 177, the 179 adds a built-in temperature measurement function, making it more versatile for technicians who deal with both electrical and thermal diagnostics.

It is considered a mid-to-high-tier multimeter. While not as feature-heavy as the flagship Fluke 87V, the Fluke 179 strikes the right balance between advanced functionality and affordability. For professionals who don’t need advanced data logging or high-end laboratory precision but still require reliability and accuracy, the 179 is often the go-to choice.

In industries where electrical safety is non-negotiable, the Fluke 179 earns trust thanks to its CAT III 1000 V / CAT IV 600 V safety ratings. This means it’s safe for use in both industrial power distribution systems and residential electrical systems—offering peace of mind in demanding environments.

Related: Fluke 117 Review

Why the Fluke 179 Stands Out

In this Fluke 179 Review, one thing becomes clear: the model stands out because of its balance of features, durability, and professional-grade safety. Here’s why it’s trusted worldwide:

• True-RMS Accuracy – Unlike cheaper average-responding meters, the Fluke 179 provides accurate readings even with noisy or distorted waveforms. This is especially useful in environments with variable frequency drives or non-linear loads.
• Built-in Temperature Measurement – Comes with a thermocouple probe, allowing direct measurement of temperature alongside voltage, current, and resistance. This makes it highly valuable for HVAC technicians and maintenance engineers.
• Rugged Construction – Designed with a durable case and integrated holster, the Fluke 179 can withstand drops and harsh conditions, making it suitable for fieldwork.
• User-Friendly Display – Its large backlit digital display with a 6,000-count resolution and an analog bar graph ensures quick and accurate data interpretation, even in dimly lit areas.
• Trusted Brand with Lifetime Warranty – Fluke is synonymous with reliability, and the lifetime warranty on the 179 adds an extra layer of confidence for long-term use.

Who Uses the Fluke 179?

The Fluke 179 is favored by:

• Electricians handling commercial and residential installations.
• HVAC Technicians who require both electrical and temperature measurements.
• Industrial Maintenance Professionals working on high-voltage equipment.
• Electronics Enthusiasts who want professional-level accuracy at home.

Its versatility makes it a reliable “all-rounder” for anyone needing accurate and safe measurements in daily work.

Technical Features of the Fluke 179 true rms multimeter:

Features	Fluke 179 Multimeter
Voltage DC:	Accuracy ±(0.09% + 2) Max. resolution 0.1 mV Maximum 1000 V
Voltage AC:	Accuracy ±(1.0% + 3) Max. resolution 0.1 mV Maximum 1000 V
Current DC:	Accuracy ±(1.0% + 3) Max. resolution 0.01 mA Maximum 10 A
Current AC:	Accuracy ±(1.5% + 3) Max. resolution 0.01 mA Maximum 10 A
Frequency:	Accuracy ±(0.1% + 1) Max. resolution 0.01 Hz Maximum 100 kHz
Resistance:	Accuracy ±(0.9% + 1) Max. resolution 0.1 Ω Range 50 MΩ
Capacitance:	Accuracy ±(1.2% + 2) Max. resolution 1 nF Maximum 10,000 µF
Temperature:	Accuracy ±(1.0% + 10) Max. resolution 0.1°C Range -40°C / 400°C
Storage temperature:	-30°C to +60°C
Operating temperature:	-10°C to +50°C
Overvoltage category:	EN 61010-1 to 1000 V CAT III EN 61010-1 to 600 V CAT IV
Humidity (without condensation):	0% – 90% (0°C – 35°C) 0% – 70% (35°C -50°C)
Battery Life:	Alkaline ~200 hours typical, without backlight
Manual and automatic ranging:	Yes
Warranty:	Lifetime
Price:	Check Today’s Price

If you’re a DIY enthusiast or professional electrician looking for a general-purpose multimeter with a wide range of features and functions, then you will love the Fluke 179 reviews. Continue reading our review to find out if the Fluke 179 is suitable for your tasks or not.

Fluke 179 Review 2025

Real-World Usage & Performance

When reviewing a multimeter, technical specifications only tell part of the story. What truly matters is how the tool performs in real-world conditions. In this Fluke 179 Review, we’ll explore how the multimeter functions in practical scenarios, from household troubleshooting to industrial applications.

True-RMS Accuracy in Action

One of the biggest advantages of the Fluke 179 is its True-RMS capability. Unlike cheaper average-responding meters, which often give misleading readings with distorted or non-sinusoidal signals, the Fluke 179 delivers accurate results every time.

• Example: In industrial plants with variable frequency drives (VFDs), electrical signals are often noisy and irregular. A standard meter may show a voltage that is 10–15% off. The Fluke 179, however, reads the true value, helping technicians diagnose equipment correctly.
• Real-world benefit: This prevents costly misinterpretations, reduces downtime, and ensures precise adjustments when servicing equipment.

Everyday Troubleshooting

Technicians frequently use the Fluke 179 for:

• Electrical panel inspections – Safely measuring 120 V, 240 V, or even 480 V systems with confidence.
• HVAC system checks – Measuring both electrical input and temperature output using the included thermocouple.
• Appliance repair – Testing continuity, resistance, and current draw in home appliances.
• Automotive diagnostics – Checking battery voltage, alternator performance, and sensor resistance in vehicles.

These versatile applications make the Fluke 179 a daily workhorse across multiple industries.

Temperature Measurement Advantage

Unlike many digital multimeters in its class, the Fluke 179 includes a temperature measurement function. This is particularly valuable for HVAC technicians and electronics engineers.

• HVAC example: A technician can measure the voltage across a compressor and simultaneously check coil temperature with the same tool.
• Electronics example: Engineers working with power circuits can monitor component heating to prevent damage.

This built-in feature eliminates the need for a separate thermometer, saving both time and money.

Display & Usability in the Field

The backlit 6,000-count display and analog bar graph make it easy to use the Fluke 179 in any environment, even dimly lit electrical rooms.

• Backlight ensures readability during night shifts or in poorly lit panels.
• Analog bar graph allows users to quickly observe trends in fluctuating signals.
• Min/Max/Average recording helps capture sudden voltage drops or current spikes that may otherwise go unnoticed.

These usability features give technicians confidence when troubleshooting intermittent or complex issues.

Related: A multimeter with higher battery life using Alkaline – Read from Fluke 115 Review

Durability & Reliability

The Fluke 179 is built to last. Field reports and user reviews highlight how it withstands years of heavy use without losing accuracy.

• Drop-tested rugged design – Engineers often mention dropping it from ladders or workbenches, only to find it still functioning perfectly.
• Long battery life – With up to 200 hours of use per battery, it reduces downtime on the job.
• Peace of mind – Backed by Fluke’s lifetime warranty, users know they’re investing in a meter that won’t let them down.

Pros of the Fluke 179

The Fluke 179 is packed with advantages that make it one of the most trusted multimeters in its class:

• High Accuracy – With a basic DC accuracy of ±0.09%, the Fluke 179 is more precise than many multimeters in the same price range.
• True-RMS Measurements – Provides accurate readings of AC signals, even in non-linear or distorted waveforms.
• Built-in Temperature Function – Eliminates the need for a separate thermometer, adding versatility for HVAC and electronics applications.
• Excellent Safety Ratings – CAT III 1000 V and CAT IV 600 V safety certifications allow professionals to use it confidently in both industrial and residential settings.
• Durable Build – Rugged case, over-molded protection, and drop resistance make it ideal for tough environments.
• User-Friendly Display – Large, backlit 6,000-count display with an analog bar graph for clear, fast readings.
• Convenient Features – Min/Max/Average recording, data hold, and auto-ranging for ease of use.
• Lifetime Warranty – A guarantee that underlines Fluke’s confidence in its quality.

Cons or Limitations

While the Fluke 179 is outstanding, it’s not without its limitations:

• Higher Price Tag – It costs more than entry-level multimeters, which may be overkill for casual users.

• No Microamp Range – Lacks the ability to measure very low current (µA), which some electronics hobbyists may need.

• No Advanced Data Logging – Doesn’t include PC connectivity or memory logging, unlike some high-end models.

• Moderate Resolution – While accurate, it’s not designed for ultra-fine laboratory measurements.

For professionals, these drawbacks are minor, but for hobbyists or engineers requiring extensive microamp measurement or PC integration, other models may be more suitable.

Comparison with Other Fluke Models

To fully appreciate the 179, let’s compare it with its siblings in the Fluke 170 series and the flagship 87V.

As this table shows, the Fluke 179 sits neatly in the middle—it combines professional accuracy with temperature functionality, without the high price of the 87V. It’s often considered the best balance of cost and performance in Fluke’s range.

Comparison with Competitor Multimeters

When compared to competitor brands like Klein, Extech, or Amprobe, the Fluke 179 consistently leads in terms of:

• Durability – It’s built tougher than most mid-tier competitors.
• Accuracy – Many competing models have ±0.5% or ±1.0% DC accuracy, far behind Fluke’s ±0.09%.
• Warranty – Few competitors offer a lifetime warranty, which is a strong trust signal.

The only edge competitors may have is in price—budget meters can be half the cost of the 179. However, professionals often agree that the reliability and lifespan of a Fluke meter far outweigh the upfront savings of a cheaper alternative.

Who Should Buy the Fluke 179?

The Fluke 179 is ideally suited for:

• Electricians working on commercial or residential systems who need both safety and accuracy.
• HVAC Technicians who benefit from temperature measurement alongside electrical testing.
• Industrial Maintenance Workers handling motors, drives, and high-voltage equipment.
• Electronics Engineers or Enthusiasts who value precision and long-term reliability.

If your job or projects involve frequent troubleshooting of electrical systems, the Fluke 179 offers the perfect balance between performance and practicality.

Final Verdict

After examining its specifications, performance, and real-world applications, it’s clear from this Fluke 179 Review why this multimeter has become a gold standard for professionals. It blends accuracy, durability, and safety in a way that few competitors can match. With True-RMS capability, a wide measurement range, built-in temperature functionality, and a rugged design backed by Fluke’s lifetime warranty, the 179 is a tool that consistently delivers value.

If you’re a professional electrician, HVAC technician, or maintenance engineer, the Fluke 179 isn’t just another tool—it’s an investment in reliability and efficiency. While hobbyists or casual users may find it pricier than basic models, for those who rely on accurate measurements day in and day out, the cost is justified.

FAQ

Question: Does the Fluke 179 come with a certificate of calibration?
Answer: No, it doesn’t. Actually, the paperwork states that the document is not a certificate of calibration, and it also states further that you can acquire a certificate of calibration by sending the device to the Fluke service center to be sent in for calibration. Note that the calibration process is free as you will be charged a nominal fee to get the certificate. However, the fee is not clear and you will have to find out when you decide to get the calibration done.

Question: What does the lifetime warranty on the Fluke 179 unit cover?
Answer: When many people hear about the lifetime warranty, the first thought that crisscrosses their mind is receiving cover for a lifetime. This is not usually the case as in this situation, the lifetime warranty is determined as 7 years after Fluke stops manufacturing the product, but the warranty period should last for at least 10 years. Furthermore, you should note that the warranty doesn’t cover batteries, fuses, damage or neglect of the product. The warranty is also not transferrable.

Still, have a question after reading this Fluke 179 Review? Comment below.