Socket outlet testers are commonly used by electricians to quickly verify that a power outlet is wired correctly and operating safely.
In this panel review, three electricians assess three different socket outlet testers and share their experience using each tool. The products reviewed are the Cabac Power Point Tester V2, the Klein Tools 3-IN-1 Multifunction Line Splitter, and the Wattmaster Socket Outlet Tester With RCD Trip Test.
Each electrician highlights what they liked about the testers, where they could be improved, and how they performed in real-world use.
A socket outlet tester is a handheld tool used by electricians to check that a power outlet is wired correctly.
These testers can detect wiring issues such as incorrect polarity, missing earth connections and incorrect wiring. Some testers also include functions to test earth leakage circuit breakers or RCD operation.
Cabac Power Point Tester V2 (TEL1TLV2)
Trade price: $77.87 (inc. GST)
This tester checks a power outlet for polarity, earth connection and incorrect wiring. It also includes a function for testing earth leakage circuit breakers.
“I’ve actually been using this tool for years. It’s nice and compact, as well as being quick and easy to use.
“The only downside is the toggle switch occasionally breaks off.
“It’s a good size, and fits nicely in my tool bag.”
Verdict: Good option
Rating: 8/10
“I’ve used this my whole apprenticeship, and I’ve never had any issues with it.
“It is pretty basic, and I have noticed the lead does pull out of the tester, but it’s never caused problems.
“I just trust this tester – everyone I’ve worked with uses it and I’ve never heard anything bad about it.”
Verdict: Reliable
Rating: 8/10 (TOP PICK)
“I liked the polarity and earth connections, as well as the incorrect wiring indicators.
“The earth leakage circuit breaker test button is great, however the quality of the product can be improved so that it lasts longer – it feels cheap and easily breakable.”
Verdict: OK
Rating: 7/10
Klein Tools 3-IN-1 Multifunction Line Splitter (A-69400AU)
Trade price: $99.95 (inc. GST)
This tool allows current measurement up to 10A without splitting the power cord. It also supports voltage measurement using standard probes and includes a protective soft pouch.
A big plus for this one is it’s multifunctional and can cover more tests than a traditional powerpoint tester. The only fault I found was that it was too chunky, and took too much space on my tool belt.
Verdict: Versatile choice
Rating: 8/10
This one is quite a nice tester, good quality, has nice features and the protective pouch is great. However, I just don’t see the point of spending $100 on a socket outlet tester. I just can’t justify it.
Verdict: Price rules it out
Rating: 6/10
The 10A limit may restrict testing on high power industrial equipment, but I really liked this one. It could be improved with a higher current rating and a tougher casing, but its compact design and versatility are great.
Verdict: Wins my vote
Rating: 9/10
Wattmaster Socket Outlet Tester With RCD Trip Test
Trade price: $76.96
This tester checks for five common wiring errors and includes six selectable earth leakage trip levels. The tester is housed in a robust case designed for durability on site.
The durability of this product stood out for me and it gives it the edge over the Cabac – I’m yet to break off the toggle switch! Its durability made it better than the competitors.
Verdict: My top pick
Rating: 9/10
Very similar to the Cabac, but it’s a bit bigger, which could end up being annoying. This one just does its job, and I couldn’t see myself choosing this tester over the others.
Verdict: Nothing special
Rating: 5/10
I liked the earth leakage trip levels, and the high-quality, flexible cord. The 10A socket needs to be rated high for testing ovens, but this gave accurate, reliable results.
Verdict: Practical
Rating: 8/10
A socket outlet tester checks that a power outlet is wired correctly and operating safely. It can detect faults such as incorrect polarity, missing earth connections and other wiring errors.
Some testers include an earth leakage circuit breaker or RCD test function to check whether the protection device trips correctly.
Electricians use socket outlet testers to quickly verify outlet wiring and safety during installation, inspection and maintenance work.
Socket outlet testers provide electricians with a quick way to confirm that outlets are wired correctly and operating safely.
In this review, electricians highlighted durability, compact size and testing capability as the main factors when choosing a tester for everyday use.
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