Among multimeters and electrical testers, the choice often comes down to how you'll measure current. The Frentaly DM850 is a general-purpose digital multimeter with a broad set of test functions. The ST201-Red is a clamp meter built around measuring AC current in a conductor without opening the circuit. Both are listed as new, both fit in the hand, and their listed prices are just $0.92 apart, so the real decision is about which tool matches the tasks on your bench or in your toolbox.
Quick verdict
Get the Frentaly DM850 if you want one meter for voltage, resistance, diode, continuity, and transistor checks. Get the ST201-Red if your main job is measuring AC current on wiring, because the clamp jaw lets you take a reading without disconnecting anything.
At a glance
| Product | Listed Price | Price Bar | Key Differentiators |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frentaly DM850 | USD 12.95 | Backlight, data hold, diode test, continuity, transistor test | |
| ST201-Red Clamp Meter | USD 13.87 | Clamp jaw for conductors up to 26mm, max reading, sleep mode, carrying pouch |
Where the Frentaly DM850 wins
The DM850's listed test functions include AC and DC voltage, DC current, resistance, diode test, continuity, and transistor test. For troubleshooting circuit boards, checking fuses, and inspecting diodes, that range gives you more coverage in one handheld case. The backlit LCD and data hold are welcome when you're working in dim spots or need to keep a reading while you move the probes.
Where the ST201-Red wins
The ST201-Red's defining feature is the clamp jaw, which measures AC current in a conductor up to 26mm without interrupting the circuit. That is the right tool for reading load current on an existing wire. The clamp meter also includes data hold, max reading, sleep mode after about 15 minutes, and comes with a carrying pouch. Be aware that the listed battery type is AAA and the batteries are not included.
Frentaly DM850 Digital Multimeter
If you want a meter that covers a broad set of electrical tests, the DM850 is a strong match. Its listed functions include AC voltage, DC voltage, DC current, resistance, continuity, diode, and transistor testing. The backlit display, data hold, and auto power off make it practical for everyday use. Its limitation is physical: it does not offer the clamp-style jaw that the ST201-Red has, so measuring current on an existing wire would require working the meter into the circuit rather than clamping around the conductor.
ST201-Red Clamp Meter
For clamp-on AC current measurements, the ST201-Red is the more direct choice. The clamp jaw fits a conductor up to 26mm, so you can take a reading while the wire stays in place. The auto-ranging display, data hold, max reading, and sleep mode are useful for quick checks on the go, and the carrying pouch adds convenience. The main catch is the battery note: two AAA batteries are required but not included, so you'll need to supply them before your first use.
Final choice by use case
Choose the Frentaly DM850 for bench work, component testing, and continuity checks where a clamp isn't needed. Choose the ST201-Red Clamp Meter for AC current measurements on installed wires, especially when you want to leave the circuit intact and carry the meter with you. Both are handheld digital options near the same price point; the right one is the one whose strongest feature matches your regular task.
