If you are looking for a budget oscilloscope, this article is for you. What’s the best oscilloscope for you to use if you’re on a tight budget? Are you in search of a unit that won’t break the bank? Thanks to this article, You’ll take a look at a few of the top models and give you our opinion on them.
I know whether you’re a hobbyist or an electrical engineer, oscilloscopes can be a useful tool to have around the lab. We have done all the research and found the 10 best budget oscilloscopes on the market. They are not just in any order but we have broken them down into categories so you can find one that is within your needs and budget.
I have also provided some of the pros and cons of each so that it is easier for you to make an informed decision that will lead to your best possible outcome.
You may have never realized it, but a wide variety of electronic equipment is needed for many different tasks. Electronics enthusiasts who need to measure voltage, current, and other variables often rely on oscilloscopes. These devices generally cost a lot of money, so we’ve compiled a list of the best budget oscilloscope models.
Best Budget Oscilloscope
An oscilloscope is a powerful tool for engineers and scientists to visualize electrical signals. Oscilloscopes allow you to view the behavior of an electrical signal over time, which can be helpful in diagnosing problems or understanding the behavior of a system.
There are many different types of oscilloscopes on the market, and the best budget oscilloscope for your needs will depend on what you need to measure and how much money you’re willing to spend. In this article, we’ll take a look at some of the best budget oscilloscopes on the market and help you choose the right one for your needs.
1. Siglent SDS1104X-E
| Brand | Siglent Technologies |
| Color | Grey |
| Shape | Rectangular |
| Capacity | 3 Kilograms |
| Product Dimensions | 5.12″D x 12.2″W x 5.91″H |
Siglent SDS1104X-E is the perfect choice for those looking to purchase a 4-channel oscilloscope that provides exceptional performance in a compact and affordable package. Comes with a built-in logic analyzer, so you can easily test digital circuits and signals while monitoring their state changes with high sensitivity and low jitter.
This oscilloscope, while being of similar specs in the lower-end class, has features not found in other models in the same class. With better-triggering modes and waveform recording, this new model is sure to be an example of SIGLENT’s quality workmanship.
Additionally, SIGLENT’s latest oscilloscope offering supports multiple powerful triggering modes including serial bus triggering. Serial bus decoding for IIC, SPI, UART, CAN, and LIN bus types is included.
The system noise is also lower than products in the industry, which means it maintains a stable signal display even when high-speed signals are displayed.
Best Features
- 16 Digital Channels
- Front-panel Response
- WiFi Control
2. SainSmart DS212
| Brand Name | SainSmart |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Ean | 4897075396529 |
The DS212 is a powerful and easy-to-use digital storage oscilloscope. It’s designed for electronics professionals, engineers, and hobbyists. It has an intuitive interface with modes for precise vertical and horizontal measurements as well as trigger threshold control. Data can be saved and transferred quickly using 8MB of onboard memory.
This professional Oscilloscope has all of the features you need to diagnose problems in a circuit, or even to create them using its signal generator. A variety of intuitive interfaces make it easy to use, whether you prefer taps and swipes or traditional knobs and buttons.
This SainSmart has a color display that shows the AC current and waveforms, so you can select the appropriate waveform for any measurement. The small form factor conveniently fits in your pocket, so it’s always ready when you need it. It has a built-in battery that lasts up to 10 hours on a single charge.
Best Features
- Portable and Compact
- 8 MB Storage Space
- 2-channel Functionality
3. Yeapook ADS1014D
| Brand Name | YEAPOOK |
|---|---|
| Display Type | digital |
| Item Shape | Rectangle |
| Material | absylux |
The Yeapook ADS1014D is a 14-channel Oscilloscope that built a DDS function and signal generator that comes with 14 standard signals that include sine wave, square wave, triangle wave, etc.
It has a 240 kbit sample memory depth and 1 GSa/s real-time sampling rate. It has 14 standard signals with 2.5vpp amplitude (including sine wave, square wave, triangle wave, etc.). The frequency can only be adjusted by the built-in DDS function signal generator.
It intercepts your whole or part of the complex signals from the oscilloscope as the output signal of the signal generator, and it can store up to 1000 customized signals. The ADS1014D has 3 trigger modes: Auto/Normal/Single mode, so you can capture instantaneous waveform when you need.
This high-precision digital oscilloscope is easy to use for engineers and electronics workers. The FFT function can extract the harmonic components of any given signal.
Best Features
- Deep Memory
- Lissajous Graphic Display
- FFT Function
4. Aiteme Tablet Oscilloscope
| Brand Name | Aiteme |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Part Number | W-15 |
| UNSPSC Code | 41000000 |
Aiteme Tablet Oscilloscope is compatible with all electronic devices and can be used for a variety of purposes. This multifunctional product offers you the latest technology in the electronics industry and is the perfect choice for your work.
With this Tablet Oscilloscope, it is easier to identify the root cause of electronic problems. This is a good tool for the rapid analysis of power and signal quality.
It is equipped with a one-click automatic recording feature and can store up to 1,000 sets of waveform data in its built-in storage space. The powerful waveforms manager enables you to browse through, view detailed information about, and scroll through 1000 plots on the screen at once.
This USB oscilloscope is a professional instrument with compact and practical measurements, which is suitable for the measurement of single-phase motors, audio amplifiers, and other voltage waves. It can be connected to a computer via a USB interface and share its screenshots with the computer for secondary analysis.
Best Features
- High Measurement Range
- Memory Compression Technology
- One-button Automatic Device
5. Rigol DS1054Z Digital Oscilloscope
| Body Style | Benchtop |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Rigol |
| Color | Grey |
| Item Weight | 6.60 pounds |
The Rigol DS1054Z is the most popular oscilloscope on the market. It has 24 Mpts of memory, as well as 1 GSa/sec sampling.
This unit also comes with a software bundle called BND-MSO/DS1000Z that includes an external trigger input, DC coupling, and a built-in logic analyzer. The ultra-wide screen (F5) is great for viewing a long trace without scrolling or zooming in and out.
The DS1054Z includes an UltraVision mode which includes deep memory of 24 Mpts. The DS1054Z also includes a FREE software bundle BND-MSO/DS1000Z that is built into the unit.
It supports four analog channels with 16 digital channels available on the DS1000Z Plus that has been upgraded with the RPL1116 probe kit. This includes 70 MHz, 50 MHz, and 25 MSa/s which are the fastest bandwidth in their category.
Best Features
- Up to 30,000 wfms/s Capture Rate
- Built-in Dual-channel 25 MHz Function
- FREE Software Bundle
- 4 Channels
6. Owon XDS3104E
| Brand Name | Abestop |
|---|---|
| Number of Items | 1 |
| Part Number | HDS200 |
Owon XDS3104E is a handheld digital oscilloscope that is extremely portable, making it perfect for field electronics testing For any electronics worker, the Owon XDS3104E is a must-have Oscilloscope.
This 3-in-1 device is an oscilloscope, multimeter, and waveform generator all in one. The USB interface allows it to be used anywhere, while its accurate detection and triggering abilities make it great for signal capturing and analyzing work.
It features accurate detection of signals, well-triggering of waveform generators, and the function of an oscilloscope and DMM. With a 3.5-inch color LCD display and a practical and intuitive menu system, this device can be easily navigated by anyone, even those with minimal experience in electronics work.
The Owon XDS3104E is an 18-meter digital oscilloscope with a 4400mAh battery life. It features three different operating modes: Continuous, Manual and One Touch.
Best Features
- Excellent battery life
- Light Weight and Portable
- 3 in 1 Function
7. YEAPOOK Handheld Digital Tablet Oscilloscope
| Brand Name | YEAPOOK |
|---|---|
| Color | Black |
| Display Type | digital |
| Item Weight | 1.32 pounds |
The YEAPOOK handheld digital oscilloscope is the ultimate tool for electronics technicians. It has a 7-inch color TFT-LCD touch screen that gives you a clear representation of your waveforms. The device is easy to use with three triggering modes and has a sampling rate of up to 1 GSa/s and an analog bandwidth of 100 MHz.
This oscilloscope is a revolutionary device that will help any electronics worker troubleshoot and repair electrical components, equipment, and circuits.
It is designed to make electronics workers’ lives easier by providing them with a slim, light, and powerful device that delivers accurate and reliable data.
This high-voltage handheld oscilloscope is a high-end product that can be used in academic experiments, electronic product design, debugging and maintenance, and electronic engineering education.
Best Features
- 7” Color TFT- LCD Touch Screen
- 3 Trigger Modes
- High-voltage Protection
8. Rigol DS1102E
| Body Style | Benchtop |
|---|---|
| Brand Name | Rigol |
| Color | white |
| Item Weight | 5.29 pound |
This Rigol DS1102E is a digital oscilloscope with a wide range of features. The device has two analog channels and 100MHz bandwidth which allows for capturing high-speed signals with ease.
The probe sensitivity can be adjusted to meet various measurement needs, and the 5.6-inch TFT LCD display offers clear waveform observation. Rigol DS1102E also has multiple trigger types: Edge, Pulse Width, Video, Slope, Alternate, Pattern, and Duration.
This is an absolute value scope with enhanced trigger features and the ability to measure 22 wave parameters. It’s perfect for electronics technicians, audio and video engineers, etc.
It is designed for use in research, design, manufacture, and education applications. This device has the ability to capture 50,000 samples per second and up to 2GB of memory.
Best Features
- Waveform Record and Replay Function
- Fine Delayed Scan Function
- Built-in FFT
- 1 GSa/sec Sampling Rate
9. Hantek 2C42
| Brand | Hantek |
| Power Source | Battery Powered |
| Style | 40MHz 2CH+DMM |
| Color | Clear |
| Measurement Type | Oscilloscope, Multimeter |
The Hantek 2C42 is a digital oscilloscope that includes a multimeter, making it a perfect tool for electronics professionals. The 2-channel design offers 250MSa/s single channel and 125MSa/s dual-channel sampling rates, which is perfect for testing signals with low frequency.
The 18650 replaceable lithium battery power system provides the Hantek 2C42 with a long working time. Type C data transfer/charging interface allows you to use the Hantek 2C42 as a power bank for your cell phone or tablet.
Industrial digital multimeter with a large LCD display and anti-overload capability, providing clear and accurate measurement results, allowing you to measure AC/DC voltage/current, resistance, capacitance, and on-off test.
This is a powerful oscilloscope and multimeter for hobbyists, students, and professional engineers. This 2-in-1 device can be your perfect companion in circuit analysis, fault detection, and repair work.
Best Features
- Both the Oscilloscope and Multimeter
- Adjustable Backlight Brightness
- Handheld and Portable
10. Aiteme ADS1014D
| Color | Gray&White |
|---|---|
| Display Type | LCD |
| Ean | 0747045332696 |
| Height | 7 centimeters |
| Item Shape | Rectangle |
Aiteme ADS1014D is a 2-channel oscilloscope and signal generator. This device has a 100MHz sampling rate and an ANA-Log bandwidth of 400mV/s. It also includes 1GB of onboard storage and 10GSA/S sampling rate, anti-burn intelligent protection, four probes, one internal DC power supply, and one external DC power supply that can be used to test batteries.
You can adjust the screen brightness and background grid brightness according to your needs. It has a built-in DDS signal generator and supports 12 kinds of functional signals. You can measure the cursor with it, the manual measurement period time is convenient for you to measure frequency and voltage.
Best Features
- 100MHz Bandwidth
- Intelligent Anti-burn Function
- Compact Design
Things To Consider While Choosing An Oscilloscope
When it comes to choosing an oscilloscope, there are a few things you need to take into account. First, consider what you need the oscilloscope for. There are different types of oscilloscopes suited for different purposes. For example, if you need an oscilloscope for measuring low-frequency signals, then you would want to choose one with a lower bandwidth. On the other hand, if you need an oscilloscope for measuring high-speed signals, then you would want to choose one with a higher bandwidth.
Another thing to consider is the input type. Most oscilloscopes have either analog or digital inputs. If you plan on using the oscilloscope with a computer, then you will need one with a digital input. Analog input is more common and is typically used with test equipment such as signal generators.
Another important consideration is the sample rate. This is the number of samples taken per second and is typically measured in kilohertz (kHz). The higher the sample rate, the more accurate the measurement will be. However, keep in mind that higher sample rates also require more processing power, so make sure your computer can handle it if you go with a high-end oscilloscope.
Finally, consider the price tag. Oscilloscopes can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars depending on their features and performance levels. Choose one that fits your budget and meets your needs.
Signal Parameters
The bandwidth of an oscilloscope is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a budget oscilloscope. The bandwidth is the range of frequencies that an oscilloscope can accurately measure. Most budget oscilloscopes have a bandwidth of 100 MHz or less.
Other important factors to consider include:
-Sample rate: This is the number of samples per second that an oscilloscope can take. The higher the sample rate, the more accurate the measurements will be.
-Input impedance: This is the resistance of the input signal. A higher input impedance means that there will be less distortion of the signal.
-Vertical resolution: This is the number of bits that an oscilloscope uses to represent the amplitude of the input signal. The higher the vertical resolution, the more accurate the measurements will be.
Noise Level
The first thing you should consider when choosing a budget oscilloscope is the noise level. Oscilloscopes can be quite noisy, so you’ll want to make sure the one you choose is not too loud for your needs. There are a few things to consider when assessing the noise level of an oscilloscope:
-The type of display: CRT or LCD? CRT displays tend to be much noisier than LCD displays.
-The frequency range: The higher the frequency range, the noisier the oscilloscope will be.
-The bandwidth: The wider the bandwidth, the noisier the oscilloscope will be.
Advanced Features
An oscilloscope is a versatile tool that can be used for a variety of purposes. While most people think of using an oscilloscope for basic signal analysis, there are actually many advanced features that can be very useful, especially for those working in electronics. Here are just a few of the advanced features you’ll find on budget oscilloscopes:
- Deep memory – this allows you to capture and store more data than ever before, making it easy to analyze complex signals.
- Serial decoding – this feature makes it possible to decode serial protocols such as I2C, SPI, and UART, so you can troubleshoot communication issues.
- Advanced triggering – this allows you to trigger the scope based on specific conditions, which can be very helpful when trying to capture elusive problems.
- Built-in math functions – many oscilloscopes now come with built-in math functions that let you perform calculations on the fly, such as averaging or FFT analysis.
- USB connectivity – this allows you to connect the scope directly to a PC for easy data transfer and analysis.
FAQs
An oscilloscope is a type of electronic test instrument that allows you to visualize waveforms. Oscilloscopes are commonly used in the troubleshooting and repair of electronic equipment, as well as in the development of new electronic devices and circuits.
When choosing an oscilloscope, you need to consider what types of waveforms you need to measure, the frequency range of the signals you want to observe, and the level of precision required. Other important factors include the size and weight of the oscilloscope, as well as its price.
Some features that can be important when choosing an oscilloscope include bandwidth, sample rate, analog channels, digital channels, memory depth, trigger modes, and math functions. Make sure to read reviews to see which features are most important for your particular needs.
There are many different types and brands of oscilloscopes on the market today. Some of the best-known brands include Tektronix, Keithley, Agilent/HP/Keysight Technologies, Rigol Technologies, and Fluke Corporation.
If you are a hobbyist, then you know that having the best scope is important. There are many things to consider when purchasing a scope, such as price, performance, and features. In this article, we will go over some of the best oscilloscope for hobbyists in 2020. We will also provide a buying guide so that you can make an informed decision when purchasing a scope.
There are many reasons why you might need an oscilloscope as a hobbyist. For example, if you are working on a project that requires measuring electrical signals, then an oscilloscope would be very useful. Additionally, if you want to learn more about electronics and how they work, then an oscilloscope can help you visualize what is happening inside electronic circuits.
There are two main types of oscilloscopes: analog and digital. Analog oscilloscopes use cathode-ray tubes (CRTs) to display waveforms. Digital oscilloscopes use liquid crystal displays (LCDs) or plasma displays instead of CRTs. Both types of oscilloscopes.
Conclusion
There are a lot of different oscilloscopes on the market, but not all of them are created equal. If you’re looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn’t sacrifice quality, then any one of the oscilloscopes on this list would be a great choice. Do your research and find the one that best suits your needs — you won’t be disappointed with any of these options.
