Any toolbox for electrical tools is not complete if it doesn’t contain non-contact voltage testers. It’s not a good idea to work on electrical circuits without a voltage tester because your decision might lead to electric shocks.
Usually, non-contact voltage testers have sensors that trigger indicator lights to show whether current passes through electrical wires. With a simple push-button, non-contact voltage testers can indicate the levels of voltage for a null and live wire.
The switch that allows the flow of current through these cables must be ‘ON’ before you use the device. However, it’s not possible to test through metal sheathing and conduits.
During electrical maintenance works, you to detect cables with 1000 volts without touching them. Depending on the design, this handy tool emits flashes of colored lights or continuous chirps to indicate a live wire.
The best non contact voltage tester comes with self-testing features and a clip for easy attachments with your pockets. Also, they have capacities for a range of voltage. Generally, non-contact testers are safe to use because they have plastic materials that act as insulators.
Apart from wires, you can test the input voltage of electrical sockets and lamp holders. Since these testing devices have tipped noses, they can get close and detect the magnetic field around any conductor.
The built-in sensors of non-contact voltage testers have been calibrated to detect the slightest voltage that runs through insulated conductors. Also, high-end designs have automatic shut-off functions that conserve the life of their batteries.
These types of non-contact voltage testers are versatile. If you need these tools for DIY or professional applications, it’s better to know the range of voltage you need to test. However, these are some features of well-designed models of non-contact voltage testers that can meet the requirements of your electrical projects.
Top 11 Non-Contact Voltage Tester Reviews
#01. Klein Tools NCVT-2 Non-Contact Voltage Tester
Klein Tools NCVT-2 is a dual-range voltage tester for standard and low voltages. While the setting for standard voltage allows you to test values of between 48 to 1000V AC, the low-voltage test is between 12-48V AC. Also, this tool is suitable for applications that don’t require voltage detection functions.
It works by indicating flashes of light. You can check input voltages in lighting fixtures, circuit breakers, switches, and wires. Another impressive feature is the automatic power-off that helps to conserve its battery life.
Even in illuminated workspaces, it’s easy to see the bright green light that comes from its LED indicator. This tester has a clip that attaches to pockets like a pen.
#02. Neoteck Non-Contact Voltage Tester
Neoteck non-contact voltage testers come with cutting-edge designs. This 156mm (length) tester has a portable hook and pen-testing tip that’s very sensitive. While the diameter of its battery compartment is 20mm, it’s ergonomically-enhanced with a mini-flashlight switch.
Apart from indicating voltage ratings, the flashlight acts help to illuminate workspaces during an emergency. It doesn’t contain any metal parts, but the insulating plastic casing prevents any exposure to electrical shocks.
As an efficient voltage detector; its voltage-testing range is between 12 to 1000V (AC), and may be used for a broad application. DIYers can use this tool for home renovation projects and repairs of electric appliances.
#03. TACKLIFE Non-Contact Voltage Tester
No products found.TACKLIFE Non-Contact Voltage Testers have adjustable sensitivity functions. You can use this dual-range testing tool for voltages between 12 to 1000V and 48 to 1000V (AC). It’s a user-friendly tool that works by pressing and holding the power button for less than 3 seconds.
The green LCD screen displays high-definition graphics that show voltage ratings and the strength of its battery. You can work smart with this Tacklife VT02 tester’s NCV Inductive Probe mechanism.
This 0.13 lbs insulated pen tester detects the null and live wires in appliances and breaker panels automatically. The battery goes into its energy-saving mode when it’s inactive for about 3 minutes. Without this auto shut-down feature, you might not enjoy long-lasting battery life.
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#04. Meterk Non-Contact Electric Voltage Tester
No products found.With a sleek design of plastic housing and improved sensitivity, this Meterk Non-Contact Voltage Tester can identify electric fields intelligently.
It uses 3 levels (flashing green, stable green and red) of lights to indicate low, medium and high voltages. Also, it emits different frequencies of buzzing sounds that align with the voltage value during a test. These smart designs ensure the highest levels of safety during non-contact voltage tests.
While a null line produces a weak-induced signal, a live wire induces the signal’s strength. You can adjust the level of sensitivity to suit your requirements. Unlike other non-contact testers, this Meterk model comes with easy-to-use power-on and LED flashlight buttons.
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#05. Sperry Instruments Non-Contact Voltage Tester (VD6504) & GFCI Outlet (GFI6302) Kit
Do you need a reliable non-contact voltage tester to trace faults or complete electrical installation projects? Sperry Instruments Non-Contact Voltage Tester comes with a Circuit Alert technology. With the receptacle tester, you can troubleshoot and check for different levels of AC voltages.
As a non-contact sensing device, its circuit can detect voltages in the range of 50 to 1000V (AC). The GFCI Outlet is compatible with standard 3-wire and 120-volt sockets. Also, the GFCI Outlet has an impact-resistant design and its ABS housing comes with molded rubber grips.
It’s easy to read voltage values with this GFCI Outlet because it displays color-coded neon lights.
#06. LOMVUM LY18C Non-Contact Voltage Tester
Wouldn’t you like to use non-contact voltage testers with tough plastic casings that can withstand any work-site environment? This lightweight Lomvum Non-Contact Voltage Tester has a durable construction.
Apart from being a handy tool for electrical application, it’s molded-plastic housing can resist the impacts of everyday tasks. Like other models, it comes with insulating plastics and a probe-type induction.
A flashing green light indicates a low voltage, but red lights with rapid buzzer indicate a live wire. As a dual-range voltage tester, it uses a transparent button that’s marked with the symbol ‘S’ to indicate sensitivity levels. While the high-sensitive mode is between 12V to 1000V, the low-sensitive mode is between 48V to 1000V.
#07. KAIWEETS HT100 Non-contact Voltage Tester
KAIWEETS HT100 Non-Contact Tester is a pro-grade measuring tool for AC voltages. It comes with adjustable sensor indicators and emits audible beeps. The LCD technology displays up to 8 bar graphs.
When testing for electrical cables for voltages, the frequency of beeps increases with higher voltage ratings. Also, the sensor indicates when the nose of this pen tester gets closer to the source.
The screen might display red or green light to show you whether a wire is live or null. As a dual-range voltage tester, you can adjust the sensitivity switch for flexible measurements.
This HT100 non-contact voltage tester is safe for all applications because it’s certified by CAT III 1000V and CAT IV 600V. You’ll receive a warning when the voltage level exceeds 90V during a test. Additionally, the screen will display a red glow and a distinctive safety symbol.
#08. Bside AVD06 Non-Contact Voltage Detector
During DIY electrical repairs, you can prevent fatigue on the wrist with voltage detectors’ casings that are well-designed. BSIDE AVD06 Non-Contact Voltage Detector is easy to handle. As a handy tool with ergonomic plastic housing, its LED indicators displays 3 colors.
To read voltage values, consider both the frequency of the beeper sounds and these 8 LED indicators (3 yellow, 3 red, 2 green). By locating the breaking point, you can measure the change in voltage on any live wire.
When there’s a high voltage, all the 8 light bulbs pop up to indicate a warning. This lightweight detector tests voltage strength with auto/manual modes.
Usually, dual-mode voltage detectors are versatile. Another benefit of using this non-contact voltage is its bright flashlight. At night or in poorly-lit work environments, the illumination helps to read voltage values correctly.
#09. Milwaukee Dual Range Voltage Detector
This Milwaukee non-contact voltage tester comes with a small LED and auto-off features. Simple and lightweight design enhances its portability. When this detector picks low voltages values, it beeps and flashes yellow indicator lights.
The combination of audio and visual displays makes this non-contact voltage detector a must-have for hobbyists and electrical engineers.
As a dual-range voltage detector (2203-20/10-1000V), it’s easy to distinguish the null from a live wire. Also, it’s sturdy plastic housing is a proper insulator that guarantees your safety. With this compact Milwaukee model, detecting voltage strength is fast and it makes your electrical repairs and installations projects enjoyable.
#10. FLIR VP50 – Non-Contact Voltage Detector
FLIR VP50 comes with eye-catching designs of a reliable non-contact voltage detector, searchlight, and pen. During extended hours of work, you can illuminate your surroundings and test the sensitivity of this detector.
It has low and high sensitivity modes that indicate the value of AC voltage. Unlike other premium detectors that emit different levels of audio frequency, this FLIR model adds the vibration feature. As a safe electrical working tool, the alarm protects users from high voltages live wires.
You might not experience downtime with this detector because its probe tip is sensitive to voltage signals. With a compact design and excellent battery life, you can use this voltage detector for many years.
#11. Southwire Advanced AC Non-Contact Voltage Detector
This Southwire Dual Range voltage detector comes with a reinforced case and push-buttons. It has an easy-to-grip handle and flashlight at the opposite end. With a bright rear-facing flashlight, working in dark corners is not unsafe. Southwire Advanced tester pen’s solid casing is IP67 waterproof.
Unlike regular non-contact voltage detector, this model’s pocket clip is a sturdy piece of plastic that’s easy to store. The ranges of AC voltage measurement with the 2 modes are 12-1000VAC/100-1000VAC.
When there’s a voltage signal on the live wire, you’ll hear the beeper and see red LED indicator lights. However, the bi-color indicator comes on when you select the testing range for voltage signals.
How To Buy The Right Non-Contact Voltage Tester
Electrical technicians and DIYers use functional tools for their jobs to be very easy. However, high-end voltage detectors ensure your safety and deliver accurate values. Let’s share useful tips that help to buy the right non-contact voltage testers.
The Build Quality
The quality of plastic housings for non-contact detectors shows their level of impact-resistance. If you want durable testers, consider the strength of their shells. While IP67 rating indicates the level of your non-contact tester’s water-resistance, a dustproof housing withstands demanding environments.
Models with durable housing materials are cost-effective. The quality of each feature of these voltage-detecting tools determines their functionality.
Sensitivity Levels
Adjustable sensitivity modes of non-contact tester models help you to detect voltage signals faster. These types of testers are often reliable because of their sensitivity levels. With the self-testing technology, you don’t need to second-guess the built-in sensor’s accuracy. it’s better to buy voltage testers with ranges of signal detection that are suitable for your projects.
Usually, some of these non-contact AC detectors don’t come with dual-range voltage modes. If you need non-contact voltage tester for professional applications, go for a model that offers more value for the money.
Battery Life
Non-contact voltage detectors are handheld devices that are powered by batteries. Many electric testers come with torchlight, flashlights, alarm and LED systems. The distribution of energy from replaceable batteries increases with the rate of using these features.
Detectors that have auto shut-off features can save the life of batteries during your projects. However, lifecycles of premium AAA batteries vary according to the usage and power consumption of non-contact voltage detectors.
Affordability
While you should consider the functionality of voltage detectors, affordability is important. Usually, the price for non-contact detectors depends on its specifications
and features. Multi-functional dual-range voltage detectors are more expensive than regular testers without LEDs. However, you may not need sophisticated models for DIY and homeowner applications. So, choose models that meet your requirements and the types with standard safety warning features.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
How can I troubleshoot non-contact detectors?
Non-contact voltage sensors can check their sensitivity levels when they have the self-test function. By pressing this button, you can confirm whether the detector is in good working condition.
Why should I invest in a premium non-contact voltage tester?
You can avoid untimely deaths from electrocution by using voltage detectors with plastic insulators. As for non-contact models, their long nose has built-in sensors that indicate the type and level of voltage going through a live wire.
Instead of struggling to make contact with the wire, low-profile detection tips can pick voltage signals safely. It’s better to invest in functional detectors than to replace them every time.
Can non-contact voltage detectors test for polarity?
The non-contact detectors check the voltage strength of different conducting materials, and it doesn’t measure polarity. You can use millimeter tools to check for polarity and multi-function testers for resistance and electrical current.
Are non-contact tester pens easy to handle and store?
The size and shape of non-contact voltage detectors allow you to hold them comfortable. Any voltage-detecting device with soft rubber grips has a better housing design. It’s a standard production process to integrate pen holders on the plastic housings of these devices.
With these plastic clips, you can hang portable detectors and use them anytime. Also, their lightweight and slim-profile designs allow you to store them in toolboxes conveniently.
Final Verdict
Safety is everyone’s responsibility, and top non-contact detectors often come with insulating materials. We have made your search to be very easy with these 11 recommendations. They can make your electrical repairs and installation enjoyable.
From the pen-testing tip to the rear-facing searchlight, no part contains metal components. Many of the non-contact voltage detector models in this guide have CAT IV-1000V ratings. Also, their impressive designs make them must-haves for every electrical toolbox. Choose detector models that offer precise readings with different methods of indications.
Last update on 2023-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
