Milwaukee Clamp Meter

Milwaukee's 2237-20 Clamp Meter promises a wealth of features for both amateur and professional electricians. With its broad measuring capabilities, solid build, and intuitive design, it's easy to see why this tool attracts attention. However, real-world performance is what ultimately dictates whether a tool earns a place in my toolkit.

First Impressions and Design

Upon first handling the Milwaukee clamp meter, the build quality stands out immediately. The rugged over-molded design gives it a solid feel, suggesting it can withstand the rigors of job sites. Its large 1.30” jaw opening and thin profile make it highly convenient for measuring electrical currents in tight spaces—an essential feature for anyone working in crowded electrical panels or with bundled wires.

The meter is powered by two AA batteries, which are easy to replace, although you do need to remove a couple of screws to access the battery compartment. While this could be slightly inconvenient, it does mean the batteries are securely housed, reducing the chance of disconnections or other issues.

Display and Usability

The high-contrast display is a particular highlight. Its white-on-black scheme is easy to read, even from odd angles or in poor lighting conditions. This is complemented by the built-in LED work light, which is a genuinely handy feature when working in darker environments like basements or utility closets. The dial switch is ergonomically placed for one-handed operation, allowing for ease of use even when wearing gloves—a thoughtful touch for those who frequently work in cold or industrial conditions.

One notable feature is the True-RMS capability, which ensures accurate readings regardless of the type of electrical load. This is a must-have for any serious electrical work, as it provides reliable data that can be critically important for troubleshooting.

Performance in the Field

Using the Milwaukee clamp meter in various scenarios, it generally performed admirably. It measures up to 600 amps AC/DC and up to 600 volts AC/DC, which covers a broad range of applications. The built-in non-contact voltage detector is another useful feature, providing a quick way to check for live wires without making contact.

The meter comes with a temperature probe, allowing for HVAC applications and other temperature-sensitive tasks. However, I did notice some discrepancies in temperature readings. While not a deal-breaker for general use, it could be problematic for tasks requiring high precision, such as calibrating equipment or diagnosing HVAC systems. The inability to calibrate the temperature probe is a downside, and one that professionals might find limiting.

Room for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, the clamp meter isn't without its shortcomings. The test leads are somewhat short and thick, making it difficult to insert them into standard electrical outlets. Additionally, the ports for the test leads are located at the bottom of the meter, which can sometimes cause the leads to pull out when lifting the meter. Moving these ports to the face of the meter would be a practical improvement.

Another area for improvement is the inclusion of a carrying case. Given the meter's price point, a basic case to store the meter and accessories would be expected. This omission is disappointing, as it necessitates purchasing additional storage solutions to keep the meter and its components organized and protected.

Minor Inconveniences

There are a few quality-of-life features that are missing, such as a magnetic attachment on the back. This would allow the meter to be securely mounted to metal surfaces, making it easier to read in various positions. Additionally, clips to hold the leads when not in use would be a useful addition, preventing the need for a third hand when operating the meter in cramped or awkward spaces.

Final Thoughts

In summary, the Milwaukee 2237-20 Clamp Meter is a robust and feature-packed tool that performs well in most electrical testing scenarios. Its high-contrast display, built-in work light, and ergonomic design make it user-friendly and effective for a wide range of applications. The True-RMS capability and broad measuring range further enhance its utility, making it a reliable choice for both amateur and professional electricians.

However, it does have its drawbacks, particularly in terms of temperature accuracy and the design of the test leads. The absence of a carrying case and some quality-of-life features also detracts slightly from its overall appeal. If you're looking for a highly accurate temperature probe, this meter might not meet your needs. For general electrical work, though, it offers excellent performance and durability.

Would I recommend the Milwaukee 2237-20 Clamp Meter? Yes, but with reservations. If your primary need is for accurate electrical measurements and you can overlook the temperature probe's limitations, this meter is a solid choice. Its ease of use, durability, and range of features make it a valuable addition to most toolkits. However, for tasks requiring precise temperature readings or more refined test leads, you might want to explore other options.