Best Cheap Oscilloscopes | 2022 Useful Buyer’s Guide
What is the best cheap oscilloscope? First of all, make sure that the product you are going to buy is manufactured by a trustworthy company with a decent customer service and maintenance department. As for the most important characteristics, the first thing you need to consider is the minimum sample rate. This value must be twice the highest frequency. Then, look at the maximum input voltage. All scopes are safety-rated with a maximum input voltage which should be specified in the probe. Choose a probe that is rated for a higher voltage than the signal being tested. The most frequently used 10:1 or 20:1 high Z passive probes and bandwidth up to 600 MHz are adequate to view up to approximately 300V. Another feature to consider is the number of channels. The more channels the oscilloscope has, the more circuit points you can measure at a time. We believe that Rigol DS1054Z Digital Oscilloscope meets these criteria best.
When do you need an expensive oscilloscope?
It is important to know what measurements your job or project requires and what options your oscilloscope should have to ensure you obtain accurate and consistent measures. Consider not only the size and bandwidth when choosing the best oscilloscope for your job, but also its sample rate, rise time, channel density, and compatible probes.
Beginners and hobbyists should start with less expensive equipment. Older used bench scopes (Rigol, Owon, etc.) might serve your purpose. A 50 -100 MHz scope with few channels is a good low-end machine, although many have lower bandwidth front ends or other issues. “Soundcard” type oscilloscopes operate as input networks and feed signals into a PC soundcard. These are sufficient DIY project scopes, but you will likely want a second more powerful (upgraded) machine as your project needs increase.
How Do Expensive And Cheap Oscilloscopes Differ?
Different features drive the cost of an oscilloscope. “Cheap” oscilloscopes are not necessarily low-quality machines. Device and screen size, channels and sample rate, and other features add to the model’s overall price. The scope’s bandwidth may be the main cost driver. And as a general rule, the sample rate should also be 10x the bandwidth.
An entry-level digital oscilloscope with basic features and narrow bandwidth (i.e.: 200 MHz) is less expensive costing only a few hundred dollars (i.e.: $250). DIY toy-style oscilloscopes and kits are cheaper and suffice for basic circuit analysis.
On the other hand, a high-quality, multi-featured, and multi-optioned oscilloscope that has a bandwidth of 1 GHz will cost thousands. Extreme high-end, high bandwidth multi-functional models (5+GHz) that offer several equipment operations in a single scope (i.e.: a variety of analyzers, waveform generator, digital voltmeter, counter, etc.) can cost tens of thousands of dollars.
Another primary consideration is the reliability of the measurement probe. An oscilloscope is as accurate as the data it receives. A poor probe tip does not guarantee the signal’s accuracy when capturing readings.
An oscilloscope allows you to test circuitry for electrical current competence and safety. It is “as accurate as the data going into it”. Recorded voltage patterns (over time) can tell you the status of power surges or why your ignition doesn’t seem to be working.
Older cathode ray oscilloscopes (CRO) use electron beams to detect changes in an electrical signal and generate waveform images that are displayed on their screen. Today’s digital storage oscilloscopes (DSO) display graphic output of sound, voltage, or vibration signals generated over time. Software programs control and produce signal sweep rate, deflections, analysis, storage, and other features.
The Main Characteristics of Oscilloscopes
Oscilloscopes measure electrical signals generated by pressure, stress, sound, light or heat. They are used in medical, telecommunications, scientific labs and automotive industries to analyze equipment, and maintain electronics monitor medical, science, and engineering laboratory processes and procedures. Oscilloscopes offer numerous features and functions. Regardless of what they are being used for or their cost, these scopes should be easy to use, accurate, and deliver maximum performance.
Maximum (real-time) sample rate
Input signals are sampled at a high frequency (sample rate) and converted into a digital format. Sample rates define how many times per second (GS/s) a signal is read. It shows how much waveform data the scope is able to capture. The Nyquist “five times rule” is used to ensure signals are accurately reconstructed. According to this “rule”, the minimum sample rate must be twice the highest frequency, or 5-times as fast as what is minimally acceptable. The minimum sample rate suffices if you are observing slow-changing signals over a long period of time.
Real-time sampling challenges the scope’s accuracy. High-frequency events that occur only once must be sampled when they occur. Basic oscilloscopes typically have a maximum sample rate of 1-2 GS/s. Mid-level scopes are faster with sample rates of 5-10 GS/s. Faster sampling tends to produce a more representative signal since less information is lost.
Horizontal and vertical sensitivity range
A waveform with voltage level appears on the vertical (Y axis) and the timebase on the horizontal (X-axis). The screen is divided into horizontal and vertical divisions that indicate waveform calibrations.
Horizontal sensitivity control
Horizontal controls control the time scale and position. Horizontal sensitivity control is found on high-end scopes. The control makes adjustments for external horizontal inputs only when the scope is in X-Y mode and the internal horizontal sweep is off.
Vertical sensitivity control
Vertical sensitivity shows how much the vertical amplifier can strengthen a weak signal. It is measured in millivolts (mV/div) and may be adjusted to set the voltage/div. A basic oscilloscope that detects minimal voltage 1-2 mV/vertical screen division may have a reduced sensitivity of 5 V/div. The scope may have a switch or knobs to calibrate vertical deflection sensitivity when there is a wide range of input amplitudes.
Maximum input voltage
The oscilloscope is a voltage-measuring device. Voltage (the amount of electric potential between two points in a circuit or from the maximum point of a signal to its minimum point) is indicated by the number of divisions in the waveform span on the scope’s vertical scale.
Input voltage includes both AC and DC. All scopes are safety rated with a maximum input voltage (highest voltage) which should be specified in the probe. Active probes withstand a few tons of volts. Passive probes can sustain hundreds of volts, but be aware that the scope’s input capacitance is within the probe’s compensation range or you risk receiving an incorrectly compensated square wave signal. The scope may become damaged if the signal exceeds the voltage.
Choose a probe that is rated for a higher voltage than the signal being tested. The most frequently used 10:1 or 20:1 high Z passive probes and bandwidth up to 600 MHz are adequate to view up to approx. 300V. These are standard with most scopes less than 1 GHz.
Timebase range
Timebase is the combined sample frequency and recorded time (test duration). It is expressed in seconds/div. Timebase controls allow you to choose the horizontal speed and create a trace (sweep). The sweep speed is expressed in time/graticule div. Most scopes allow you to control a wide range of sweep speeds.
Number of channels
The more channels the oscilloscope has, the more circuit points you can simultaneously measure. Most scopes display several signals on the screen at once for comparison. Each signal goes into its own channel although some scopes share sampling between channels. In this instance, be aware that the number of channels turned on at the same time can reduce the sample rate.
The number of channels you need depends on your applications. Two and four channels are common and allow you to compare waveform signal timings. Two channels are adequate for a hobbyist. Eight, sixteen, or more channels are needed for a digital system that debugs using parallel data. Mixed domain oscilloscopes may have both analog and digital channels. Digital timing channels show (high-low) bus waveforms. RF input measures high frequency.
Noise Level
Measurement system noise consists of a variety of scope noises and probes that overlay the signal. Applications and high-energy and power transducers, sensors, physics, integrity, and high-speed digital designs produce conditions that obscure small signals. The input amplifier, buffer circuits, probe amplifier, and vertical scale attenuator contribute to measurement system noise.
Noise reduction recommendations: A null measurement may be performed to ensure the scope, probe, and connection method are appropriate for the measurement activity. The pre-set bandwidth may be adjusted to limit the used bandwidth only to the amount needed to complete the measurement activity. Expand the signal so it fills the entire screen. Some scopes have a high-resolution option (mode) that can effectively be used for non-repetitive signals.
Oscilloscope Comparison: Rigol Vs Quimat
1. Rigol DS1054Z Digital Oscilloscope
The Rigol DS1054Z model is the best-selling, entry-level digital oscilloscope for schools, businesses, and hobbyists. Rigol is a maker of reliable, high-quality scopes. This compact scope is a lightweight 6.6 lbs., which makes it conveniently portable. Its integrated channel, deep memory, and decoding functions allow extensive analysis and performance.
This oscilloscope has a 50 MHz analog bandwidth for display accuracy. Its four (separate) analog channels make it possible to simultaneously track several voltage sources. Its higher 1 GS/s sampling rate ensures accurate recognition of alternating events. Innovative UltraVision technology includes 12 Mpts of deep memory, which comes standard and can be upgraded to 24 Mpts. It also includes a 30,000 wfms/s waveform capture rate and a real-time record/replay waveform quick-focus option. It also includes 4 RP2200 150 MHz Passive High Z probes.
The device also features a large, high-resolution 7-in., WVGA 800 x 480 TFT screen that provides multilevel intensity grading displays and offers greater readability. Its integrated (advanced) system of formulas calculates complex signals. It also includes a USB connector (thumb drive host and device) and LAN (LXI) for an Ethernet connection and Aux (TrigOut / PassFail) Output. Advance triggering and serial bus options may be purchased.
This oscilloscope is CE and CSA safety certified.
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
Rigol: Check the current price
2. Quimat Updated 2.4" TFT Digital Oscilloscope Kit
This updated, handheld Quimat (Q15001) digital oscilloscope comes fully assembled (unlike similar DIY PART products). The Q15001 is a DSO138 model upgrade that includes a higher- and wider-sensitivity DSO shell. Sensitivity has been extended in both directions to 5mV/div and 20V/div with a sensitivity error less than 5%. The Q15001 is a lightweight 100 g. device that runs on a 9V battery, which makes it a conveniently useful portable technician’s tool.
Its single analog channel has a maximum bandwidth of 200 kHz. The channel sits on a board apart from most user-install parts to ensure adequate separation between analog and digital circuits. It has a 50Vpk maximum input voltage and input impedance of 1M ohm. This upgrade has a maximum 1M sa/sec sample rate and includes “Auto”, “Normal” and “Single” rising/falling edge trigger modes in a fixed ½ buffer-size position.
The Q15001 also features a high-quality multicolored 2.4-in., 320 x 240 TFT, 12-bit resolution LCD screen that displays an exceptional amount of graphic information. The display is mounted on the main board with the MCU to avoid inter-board pin headers. Sensitivity/vertical position, timebase/horizontal position, trigger and Hold/Run buttons, and a rotary “Adjustment” dial are conveniently located on the device’s face. The power switch and power supply connector port are on the underside of the device and the BNC signal input connector, test signal output, and AC/DC/Ground coupling switch are located on the top of the device.
| Pros | Cons |
|
|
Quimat: Check the current price
15 Best-Selling Oscilloscopes | Comparative Table
Siglent SDS1104X-E 100Mhz digital oscilloscope 4 channels standard decoder
- 100Mhz, 4 channels, 1Gsa/use, 1Mpts fft
- Standard decoder: iic, spi, uart/Rs232, can, lin
- 16 digital channels (mso) (four channel series only, option)
- USB AWG module(four channel series only, option)
- USB WIFI adapter(four channel series only, option)
- NOTE: Refer User guide included along with the product before use
2 Channel Oscilloscope ADS1014D, 2in1 Oscilloscope and Signal Generator, 100MHz, Built-in 1GB Storage Space,...
- 7 inches color LCD screen,800*480 resolution, bright color and high contrast. You can adjust the screen brightness and background grid brightness according to your needs.Thin and light, easy to carry.
- Built-in DDS signal generator, support 12 kinds of functional signals. Cursor measurement function, convenient manual measurement period, frequency and voltage. Built-in high voltage protection module, can withstand up to 400V continuous voltage, without fear of burning out.
- Equipped with efficient one-button automatic, without tedious adjustment can display the measured waveform, one key to save the waveform. Built-in 1GB storage space. Very convenient screen capture and waveform storage functions. It can store up to 1000 screenshots + 1000 groups of waveform data. Equipped with USB interface, can be connected with the computer, convenient for secondary analysis.
- FFT display function, you can analyze the signal spectrum characteristics. The LISSAJOUS graphic display function can be used to determine the amplitude, frequency, and phase contrast of the two sets of signals. Up to 12 parameter measurement: VPP, VP, Vmax and Vmin and Vavg, Vrms, Frequent, Duty +, Duty -- Time +, Time -, Period
- Suitable for use in maintenance and research and development industry. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us for a refund or replacement. We provide 100% satisfaction guarantee and perfect service.
YEAPOOK ADS1014D 2 in 1 Digital Oscilloscope DDS Signal Generator with 2 Channels 100Mhz Bandwidth 1GSa/s...
- 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝 : 2 channels, 100 MHz analog bandwidth @ 1 GSa/s Real-time sampling, 240kbit Sample memory depth.
- 𝐅𝐮𝐧𝐜𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧 𝐒𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐆𝐞𝐧𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐨𝐫 : Built in DDS Function Signal Generator,14 standard signals (@ 2.5vpp), including sine wave, square wave, triangle wave, ect. [Only the Frequency is adjustable]
- 𝐎𝐫𝐢𝐠𝐢𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐂𝐚𝐩𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐞 𝐎𝐮𝐭𝐩𝐮𝐭 : It intercept whole or part of the complex signals from the oscilloscope as the output signal of the signal generator. It can store up to 1000 customized signals.
- 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 : Auto/Normal/Single 3 Trigger modes,it is easy to capture instantaneous waveform.
- 𝐋𝐢𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐣𝐨𝐮𝐬 𝐆𝐫𝐚𝐩𝐡𝐢𝐜 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐩𝐥𝐚𝐲 & 𝐅𝐅𝐓 𝐕𝐢𝐞𝐰𝐢𝐧𝐠 : Lissajous figure can be used to compare and judge the amplitude, frequency and phase of two groups of signals. the FFT function can estimate the harmonic component of signals
AUKUYEE Updated 2.4" TFT Digital Oscilloscope Kit with Power Supply and BNC-Clip Cable Probe Q15001 (Assembled...
- UPGRADED VERSION - The sensitivity of Q15001 has been extended in both directions and is higher and wider. It reaches 5mV/div - 20V/div. Also, this updated version can be handheld.
- DESIGNING TO YOUR NEEDS - Display and MCU are mounted on the same board (mainboard) to avoid using inter-board pin-headers. Analog channel is placed on a separate board that contains most user install parts, so the analog and digital circuits can be better separated.
- ROTARY ENCODER - It has been added the rotary encoder, makes parameter adjustment quicker and easier.
- ASSEMBLED FINISHED - Quimat Q15001 oscilloscope is an Assembled finished Machine. NOT DIY PART, it can be used directly to avoid assembling welding process problems and greatly saves the assembly time.
- WHAT YOU GET - You will get an assembled oscilloscope, BNC-clip cable and a power pupply. Detailed Operation instructions troubleshooting guide and schematic are also provided.
YEAPOOK ADS1013D Handheld Digital Tablet oscilloscope Portable Storage Oscilloscope Kit with 2 Channels, 100Mhz...
- 𝐏𝐫𝐨𝐟𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐃𝐞𝐬𝐢𝐠𝐧𝐞𝐝 : 2 channels, 100 MHz analog bandwidth @ 1 GSa/s Real-time sampling, 240kbit Sample memory depth.
- 𝐇𝐃 𝐒𝐜𝐫𝐞𝐞𝐧 : 7'' color TFT- LCD touch screen with 800 * 480 resolution.
- 𝐄𝐚𝐬𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐌𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐮𝐫𝐢𝐧𝐠 :Auto/Normal/Single 3 Trigger modes,it is easy to capture instantaneous waveform.
- 𝐈𝐧𝐭𝐞𝐥𝐥𝐢𝐠𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐀𝐧𝐭𝐢-𝐛𝐮𝐫𝐧 : Built-in high-voltage protection module,can tolerate a continuous voltage of up to 400V.
- 𝐕𝐞𝐫𝐬𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐥𝐞 : ASD1013D is widely applicable in the academic experiment, electronic product design,debugging and maintenance, electronic engineering education, etc.
Oscilloscope Multimeter, LM2020 New Update, Professional LED Handheld Oscilloscope Multimeter with 2.5 Msps high...
- ▼FASTER SAMPLING SPEED - 2.5Mpsp high-speed A/D data collecting, high sampling rate and high bandwidth, one-key transform to waveform function furing measuring.3 waveform scanning modes: automatic/conventional/single. Improve work efficiency.
- ▼MORE POWERFUL DETECTION RANGE -DC voltage 0 ~ 1000V, AC voltage 0 ~ 750V, DC/AC Current 0 ~ 10A, Resistance 0 ~ 40MΩ, Capacitance 0 ~ 100μf, Frequency 0 ~ 5MHZ, Diode / Continuity open circuit voltage 1.5V, judgement resistance 50Ω. Transistor amplification test to meet all test requirements.
- ▼MORE ACCURACY -Dedicated Chip, the automatic waveform capture function, easy operation. The software calibration technology, memory calibration coefficients. Measure more accurately.
- ▼LED BACKLIGHT & STORAGE / READOUT - Analog broadband range up to: D AC ~ 1MHz, Display hold, storage / readout up to 10 waveforms and 100 sets of measurement values. 240X320 color screen with LED backlighting. More clear and suitable for working at night.
- ▼OVERLOAD PROTECTION & MULTI-PURPOSE - Built-in 500mA/10A double protective tube, dual protection of the instrument. Can choose to automatically shutdown or continuous operation, applicable to the workplace such as family, school, and factory. DISTORTION DETECTION ALSO Protect safety.
SIGLENT SDS1204X-E Super Phosphor Oscilloscope 4-Channel 200 MHz 1 GSa/s 14 MB
- 200 MHz;4 channels; 1 GSa/s; 14 M memory depth; 100,000 wfm/s waveform capture rate; 7 inch display (800*480 pixels); SPO technology,1 Mpts FFT Serial bus triggering and decode (Standard), supports IIC, SPI, UART, RS232, CAN, and LIN Support MSO USB AWG Bode Plot USB WIFI
- 200 MHz bandwidth / 4 channels
- Compatible with several options not available for the 2 channel model (SDS1202X-E) - mixed signal analysis, arbitrary waveform generator software, WiFi control, USB Isolated AWG Module
- Real-time sampling rate up to 1 GSa/s
- Record length up to 14 Mpts, 1 Mpt FFT
Micsig Digital Automotive Tablet Oscilloscope 100MHz 4 Channels ATO1104
- [Intelligent] Under the network environment, you can operate the oscilloscope remotely via connecting the smartphone APP, which can help you observe the real-time waveform and data. If the Wi-Fi signal is stable, waveform and data transferring process make you work effectively.
- [Applications] The ATO1104 supports the various automotive diagnostic test: ignition, sensors, actuators, networks, charging circuit, starter circuit, communication test (including CAN, LIN, FlexRay, K, etc. ), and pressure test(cylinder pressure, intake and exhaust pressure, fuel pressure, etc. )
- [Simple to Use] Featured with an 8" full touch capacitive screen, the operation is simple and easy.
- [Easy Saving] The built-in 8 G memory storage makes saving and transferring waveform images, videos and data easier than ever.
- [Various I/O port] Wi-Fi, LAN, HDMI, USB Host, USB Device, GND, DC Power.
4 Channels Digital Oscilloscope,1GS/s Sample Rate 250MHz LCD PC Desktop Portable USB Oscilloscope,with 1CH...
- 4CH oscilloscope,with 1CH Arbitary/function waveform generator,independent keys of oscilloscope and waveform generator which is easy to operate at the same time.
- 250MHz bandwidth, minimum measurement range 500μV /div,1GS/s sample rate,advanced digital trigger system,high trigger sensitivity.
- The high-resolution 7-inch color LCD screen (800x480 pixels),provides more than 14 trigger functions: edge, overtime, pulse, pattern, interval, etc.
- Function/arbitrary signal generator25MHz,12BitS resolution, 200MHz DDS, ARB/square wave/sine wave/triangular wave/trapezoidal wave/impulse wave/DC etc.,easy to simulate the sensor.
- Before use,please read the instructions enclosed with the product.If you have any questions about the product, please contact us promptly.We will provide you with 100% satisfaction guarantee and perfect service.
FAQ: What and How an Oscilloscope Measures:
Can an oscilloscope measure current?
It can measure how much of a signal is AC (alternating current) or DC (direct current) using a current probe or by measuring voltage drop across a shunt resistor.
Can an oscilloscope measure the frequency?
Most oscilloscopes automatically measure the frequency of one part of the signal relative to other parts.
Can an oscilloscope measure AC / DC voltage?
It measures the signal’s time and voltage values. Or measure DC voltage (manually) by ‘counting’ the vertical reticules and multiplying by the volts/division.
Can an oscilloscope measure capacitance?
It does not measure direct capacitance. It can measure a time constant that can be used to find the actual (electrical system) capacitance with aid of an arbitrary function generator.
Can an oscilloscope measure resistance?
An Ohmmeter or digital multi-meter is a better instrument for measuring resistance.
Can an oscilloscope measure inductance?
It measures inductance with the aid of a function generator (the uncertainty value is 3-5%).
Can an oscilloscope display sound waves?
Its display shows if a component is distorting the signal.
What is an Oscilloscope? Oscilloscopes are a specialized piece of equipment used to visualize the waveforms produced by electric signals, RF (radio) signals, and to analyze soundwaves. Everyone has seen an oscilloscope, if nowhere else, then on television and in movies, drawing warbling rings or wobbling wavy lines on a small CRT screen.
Oscilloscopes are based around the concept of signals travelling in the form of waves, or a rising/falling pattern (peaks and valleys). This waveform principle is used to encode data via electrical and radio signals, to carry analog radio signals, and defines the nature of voltage and frequency in electrical components.
Oscilloscopes are generally used as a problem-solving tool to test the flow of voltage through various sections of a circuit board or section of an integrated circuit. Modern oscilloscopes have an onboard postprocessing computer which can aid in visualizing if the wave seen matches the wave expected, and the old CRT display system has long since been replaced by a TFT or LCD screen in most cases, though CRT versions do still exist.
If you like to work on computers or other electronics projects, an oscilloscope can help you be sure the right signal and voltage level is being sent and received by various components of your apparatus, with more intuitive data than a simple ohmmeter or voltage tester can provide.
