Best Portable and Handheld Oscilloscopes

 

Portable and handheld oscilloscopes have changed the game. Despite not being as powerful or as chock full of features as their bulkier bench-top counterparts, portable ‘scopes are capable of doing exactly what is expected of them—and then some. There are dozens of handheld oscilloscopes out right now that can do more than just track and analyze voltage changes over time. In fact, their portability is what makes them preferable over traditional models during fieldwork and field applications. Some professionals even use portable ‘scopes in conjunction with bench-top ‘scopes to get the best possible results.

 

As with traditional oscilloscopes, there are a ton of technical factors to consider when choosing a portable or handheld oscilloscope: size, weight, price, memory, warranty, maintenance, input impedance, features, etc. These should all be weighed with regards to what you need the device for.

 

Always remember, though, that your specific needs for the ‘scope are paramount, and should hold more weight than a general five-star rating.

Here is a list of the handheld oscilloscopes we will cover:

• Hantek2D72
• Siglent SHS815
• OWON XDS3102A
• Siglent SDS1052DL
• Keysight U1620A
• SainSmart Nano DSO202
• Rigol DS1054Z
• Fluke ScopeMeter 190-504/S
• Kuman DSO 138
• All-Sun 3-in-1

Keep reading to find out more information about the best portable and handheld oscilloscopes!

Hantek2D72 MHz Oscilloscope, Waveform Generator & Digital Multimeter

 

Overview

This all-new 70 MHz portable oscilloscope is one of Hantek’s most popular models. It comes in a compact, lightweight design that makes for comfortable handling. When you need to put it down, its multi-position support stand allows you to adjust it ‘til you find a convenient viewing angle.

Charging is easy with its intelligent charging control feature and Type C charging interface. One two-hour charge is enough to keep this powerful portable scope going for a full day.

Other notable features include a high-definition color LCD screen, a built-in large capacity lithium battery, and multiple functions. But what truly sets this model apart is its 3-in-1 nature. It’s simultaneously an oscilloscope, signal source, and multimeter.

Key Features:

• Color LCD Screen
• Resistance, Break, Capacitance, and Diode functions available
• Auto-scale Function
• User-Friendly Minimalist Keyboard (easy operation)
• Dual-Channel Oscilloscope
• Waveform Generator
• Intelligent Charging Control

Why Buy?

The Hantek2D72 is a 3-in-1 wonder. It’s a dual-channel oscilloscope, a waveform generator, and a digital multimeter—truly an all-purpose tool that can meet most (if not all) of your requirements. Despite its industry-standard size and dimensions, this portable scope packs more functions in it than some benchtop models.

On top of its full-color LCD screen, multi-functional multimeter, and easy-to-use keyboard design, it also comes with intelligent charging—meaning you can safely use the unit while it’s recharging. You can even choose between charging it using a standard computer USB interface or a high-current 5V/2A. That same USB interface allows you to easily transfer data from the scope to your computer like you would a smartphone or portable hard drive.

If you want a great multipurpose tool that gives you more than your money’s worth, choose the Hantek2D72.

Siglent SHS815 150MHz 2 Channel Handheld Oscilloscope

 

Overview

Best for outdoor applications like wind power measurement, new energy equipment testing, automotive electron and electric automobile measuring, and electrical system debugging, the Siglent SHS815 shines as a handheld device. With a built-in multimeter and waveform recorder, its performance level is right up there with top-quality benchtop models.

With industry-standard features like 150MHz bandwidth, single- and dual-channel capabilities, and an overall memory depth of 2Mpts, this model is a safe, dependable choice. Its full-color 5.7-inch screen makes for easy waveform recording and reviewing. Its multimeter mode can measure DC/AC voltage and currents, diode, capacitance,and continuity. And it has a real-time sampling rate of 1GSa/s on the single channel and a total real-time sampling rate of 500MSa/s on the double channel.

Key Features:

• Five (5) Trigger Types: Edge, Pulse, Slope, Video, Alternative
• 6-bit Frequency Counter
• Full-Color LCD Screen
• Dual Channel Capabilities
• 150 MHz Bandwidth
• 800K Points Oscilloscope Trend
• Built-in Multimeter and Waveform Recorder

Why Buy?

If you need a robust handheld scope for testing outdoor circuits, energy sources, power systems, and other strong electric charges, the Siglent SHS815 is your best bet. You’ve got a powerful oscilloscope, versatile multimeter, and hyper-intuitive waveform recorder in one portable device. Capable of supporting USB storage, USB updates, complicated math functions, and FFT operations, you’ll find this model is an all-around star.

The jack-of-all trades of portable oscilloscopes, it’s got enough features in it to be well worth its price. The bundled TrendPlot—for easy scope measurement and review—alone makes the Siglent SHS815 oscilloscope a tough one to beat.

OWON XDS3102A 2Ch 100MHz n-in-1 Digital Oscilloscope with Multi-Touch Touchscreen

 

Overview

A multi-function mobile tester that is as intuitive as it is flexible, this circuit debugger, waveform generator/recorder, and digital oscilloscope is not one to miss. Based on the 3rd generation technology platform Xvisual, it has a reasonable amount of functions and features packed in its rather sleek, futuristic body. It also has an optional battery which can make it even more portable.

Despite its ultra-thin design, the Owon XDS3102A’s exterior is incredibly extensive. Multi-interface integration is made possible with the USB port, AUX port, and VGA port. The screen is an 8-inch high-resolution 800 x 600 LCD number that makes for easy viewing (and reviewing). And with its multi-trigger and 12-bit high-resolution ADC options thrown into the mix, the Owon XDS3102A is, without a doubt, a dual-channel powerhouse.

Key Features:

• 1GS/s Sample Rate
• SCPI and LabVIEW Support
• Multi-Interface Integration
• 12-bit High Resolution ADC
• 40M Record Length
• Multi-Point Touch Screen
• VGA Port
• 100 MHz Bandwidth

Why Buy?

If aesthetics is a high priority for you, you won’t find models quite as visually pleasing as the Owon XDS3102A. Thin, sleek, and beautifully designed, it definitely stands out among the typically clunky handheld scopes. Marketed as a multi-function mobile tester, this particular model does have enough features in it to be considered multipurpose—though perhaps not as comprehensive as some other models on this list.

Regardless, its strength lies in its portability and interface. Its multi-point touchscreen makes for easier, more user-friendly operation. Its VGA port makes for straightforward video expansion. And its different ports and connections makes for multiple integration—a feature not many models on the market have.

Overall, the Owon XDS3102A is a handy enough handheld device worth purchasing.

Siglent Technologies SDS1052DL+ 50 MHz Digital Storage Oscilloscope

Overview

 

Rated one of the best portable oscilloscopes on the market by leading authorities, the Siglent SDS1052DL is tough to beat. A powerful, pocket-sized ‘scope from one of the most popular oscilloscope manufacturers, it definitely packs a punch. It’s capable of taking and analyzing measurements like a standard bench-top model and, thanks to the modern tech in its deceptively small frame, the Siglent SDS1052DL capable of supporting a myriad of interfaces: USB Host, USB Device, and RS-232, just to name a few.

 

Key Features:

• Quick Onscreen Menu
• Multi-language Support (6 languages)
• Excellent TFT display
• Multiple Interface Support (USB host and device, LAN, etc.)
• Automatic Measuring Ability (can take up to 20 measurements)
• One-Key Printing Capabilities
• 500 MSa/s Real-Time Sampling Rate
• Two-Channel Support

Why Buy?

 

If you want a handheld oscilloscope that is truly ahead of the game, go for the Siglent SDS1034DL. It has advanced features the likes of which very few portable ‘scopes can compete with, like advanced trigger modes and false trigger filters. It can tell false triggers apart from real ones when taking measurements, and it automatically discards them—perfect for saving memory, keeping clean data, and providing accurate readings.

 

Aside from its memory depth of 32 Kpts and its 7-inch color TFT, LCD display, it also offers pulse, slope, width, video, edge, and alternate selectable modes as some of its advanced trigger modes. The Siglent SDS1034DL is a powerful portable tool to have in hand and on the field.

 

Keysight U1620A Handheld Oscilloscope

 

 

Overview

 

Though not as widely known as the previous entry, the Keysight U1620A Handheld Oscilloscope made waves as the world’s first handheld ‘scope with a VGA display. With floating measurement capability, 10 available languages on the User Interface (UI) system, and a 2 GSa/s sampling rate capable of capturing and analyzing glitches, this portable oscilloscope is powerful in its own right.

 

Some of the signals it can capture waveforms from include pulse width modulated circuit, transient, and in-rush.

 

Key Features:

• 7-inch VGA TFT LCD Display
• 3 Available Viewing Modes (indoor, outdoor, night vision)
• Multi-Language Support (10 languages)
• USB Connectivity
• 100/200 MHz Bandwidth (with Isolated Channels)
• Channel-to-Channel Isolation (with CAT III 600 V Safety Ratings)
• Data Logging Capability
• 10,000-Count Resolution
• In-Country Calibration

Why Buy?

 

The Keysight U1620A is a great portable ‘scope that gives you a lot of bang for your buck. Its performance is above standard, it has a handful of pretty neat features (especially its VGA display), and it comes with in-country calibration, repair, and maintenance. It’s great for application-specific technologies that depend on bandwidth and logic analysis.

 

The ‘scopes 2 GSa/s sampling rate and 2 Mpts memory depth also make it pretty great for generating detailed analyses on captured glitches.

SainSmart Nano DSO202 2-CH Handheld Touch Screen Oscilloscope

 

 

Overview

 

One of the smaller portable ‘scopes on this list, the SainSmart Nano DSO Handheld oscilloscope is less than an inch thick (11mm, to be exact) and weighs only 0.35 pounds (about 5.6 oz.). However, don’t let its tiny, tiny frame fool you; it’s a powerful little device capable of running multiple features, menus, and measurement options.

 

The SainSmart Nano is roughly the size of an iPhone 6 and, once you know how to use it, can be just as useful. It has a max sample rate of 10MSa/s and 1MHz bandwidth; pretty decent specs for standard measuring or debugging.

 

Key Features:

• Dual Trace Three Lines
• Color Display (320 x 240mm)
• Lithium Batteries (chargeable)
• 8MB Memory Card
• Multiple Measurement Modes
• Two-Channel Support
• DC/AC Coupling
• Touch Screen Operation

Why Buy?

 

The SainSmart Nano DSO202 is a sturdy little contraption that is well-built and highly responsive to user input. It offers fairly accurate measurements despite its diminutive frame, and it’s powerful enough to offer a decently wide range of basic electronic engineering requirements—perfect for schoolwork and field experiments.

Rigol DS1054Z Digital Oscilloscope

 

 

Overview

 

Known for its relatively lightweight aspect and compact design, the Rigol DS10547 comes equipped with four probes, four channels, and an expandable memory—one of the models with this capability!

 

Though not as powerful as some models nor as deceptively tiny, this oscilloscope deserves to be on this list. It’s reliable, it’s hardy, and it’s got enough space in it for all the essentials: a big screen, multi-channel support, multi-interface support, and the ability to capture waveforms at 30.000 wmfs/second.

 

Key Features:

• 50 MHz Bandwidth, 7” Display
• Four-Channel Support
• Expandable Memory (12 Mpts; upgradable to 24 Mpts)
• USB Host & USB Device Support
• Aux and LAN Embedded Interfaces
• 1GSa/s Memory Depth
• FFT Function Standard

Why Buy?

 

One of the longest-running best-selling products from a reputable manufacturer, the Rigol DS1054Z is a nice, safe, and sturdy choice. It’s got enough key features to satisfy engineers, technicians, and other similar professionals out on the field. The size doesn’t compromise any essential elements in the ‘scope, either. The display is big enough to provide measurement readouts and the 30.000 wmfs/second rate is pretty good.

 

Fluke ScopeMeter 190-504/S Portable Oscilloscope

 

 

Overview

 

All the models in the Fluke 190 ScopeMeter series are portable, high-performance gadgets designed for high-stakes troubleshooting and rough terrain. Needless to say, they’re all fantastic. The 190-504/S model is no different. With up to 500 MHz bandwidth available and 4 channel support, this handheld model is undoubtedly as powerful as a traditional bench oscilloscope. It’s also IP-51 rated, which means it’s dust-proof, drip-proof, and 100% capable of withstanding harsh environments.

Packed with tons of cool features—like a multimeter, a paperless recorder, and isolated USB ports for PC connectivity—and different measurement modes, the Fluke ScopeMeter is certainly worth its market price.

 

Key Features:

• Up to 500 MHz Bandwidth (minimum 60 MHz)
• Two-Channel / Four-Channel Support
• CAT III 1000V / CAT IV 600V Safety Rating
• 5 GSa/s Sampling Rate
• Dedicated 999 Count Digital Multimeter
• Connect-and-View^TM Feature
• TrendPlot (trend measurement readings up to 22 days)
• Advanced Automatic Measurements
• Dust- and Drip-Proof (IP-51 rated)
• USB Ports
• Li-Ion Battery

Why Buy?

 

One of the toughest, most durable handheld oscilloscopes out there, the Fluke ScopeMeter models are designed for rough terrain. They’re the perfect choice for plant maintenance engineers, technicians, and other electronic professions that require a ton of harsh, hazardous fieldwork.

 

They’ve also got dozens of unique features that make them stand out from the crowd, like the Connect-and-View^TM (for different continuous auto-triggers) and ScopeRecord roll mode (for capturing waveform sample data up to 48 hours).

 

With advanced automatic measurements for power (Vpwm, VA, PF, W) and time (V/s, w/s, mAs), the Fluke ScopeMeter 190-504/S is a masterful combination of performance, ruggedness, and portability.

 

Kuman DSO 138 DIY KIT Open Source

 

 

Overview

 

The only DIY kit on this list, we feel the Kuman DSO 138 nonetheless deserves a spot. Aimed towards the students and professionals who love building and experimenting with their tools (and aren’t afraid of a soldering iron), this open source kit lets you build your own portable oscilloscope.

 

DIY oscilloscope kits are actually more common than you think. Some professionals even prefer putting their ‘scope together—mainly because it’s much cheaper, but also because it gives them the freedom to customize or play around with the end product.

 

As long as you know what you’re doing with the pieces, and the soldering iron, you should end up with a usable, high-quality ‘scope by the end of it. And with pre-soldered pieces and a fairly comprehensive instructions booklet, assembly shouldn’t be a problem.

 

Key Features:

• Open-Source KIT
• 2.4” TFT Display
• Pre-Soldered SMD Parts
• 1 Msps Sampling Rate
• HOLD Function
• 200 KHz Bandwidth
• 1024 Points Record Length
• Built-in 1KHz Test Signal

Why Buy?

 

A truly budget-friendly alternative to buying your own portable oscilloscope, this $25-$30 kit (depending on where you get it) is the best solution for students and young professionals just starting out with ‘scopes. It’s also quite beginner-friendly, with pre-soldered SMD parts and a pre-programmed MCU.

 

Touted as one of the most useful DIY oscilloscope kits on the market, the Kuman DSO 138 has a unique open source feature that allows the user to add on even more features as they go.

 

The All-Sun 3-in-1 Multifunction Handheld Oscilloscope

 

 

Overview

 

“Multifunction” is right.

 

What it lacks in raw power, the All-Sun Multifunction ‘scope makes up for in flexibility and use-value. It’s essentially a combination of a high-quality single-channel scope (with 50 MHz bandwidth and 200 MSa/s sampling rate) and a basic signal generator with an intensely precise multimeter that uses RMS measurements for AC signals.

 

Thanks to this odd-but-strangely-functional set-up, this device is capable of measuring voltage, continuity, resistance, and capacitance. It can also perform a diode test and a continuity test while simultaneously displaying a trace plot of the multimeter reading.

 

With intuitive menus and dual-language interface available, the All-Sun 3-in-1 Multi-function ‘scope is pretty much the Swiss pocket knife of oscilloscopes; tiny, unpredictable, and handy in almost any situation.

 

Key Features:

• 50 MHz Bandwidth, 200 MSa/s Sampling Rate
• High-Resolution 320 x 240mm Screen
• 6000-Count High-Precision Multimeter Chip
• Signal Generator Function
• NPX Intelligence Collection Chipset
• Rechargeable Battery
• Available in Chinese and English
• Auto, Normal, and Single-Trigger Modes

Why Buy?

 

If you’re looking for a truly portable oscilloscope to supplement an existing benchtop model, this could be the ‘scope for you. Durable, robust, and surprisingly useful in multiple situations, the All-Sun ‘scope is great to have on-hand during unpredictable fieldwork.

 

The chip on its shoulder is, without a doubt, the 6000-count, high-precision multimeter chip that powers many of its functions. Its rechargeable battery is nothing to scoff at either, as that just gives it yet another feature over the other listed in this article. This 3-in-1 scope is also capable of locking and saving the waveform of a non-periodical signal—something not a lot of traditional oscilloscopes can do.

 

If you value features and performance over power and size, give the All-Sun 3-in-1 a try.

Conclusion

By covering the following handheld and portable oscilloscopes:

• Hantek2D72 70t
• Siglent SHS815
• OWON XDS3102A
• Siglent SDS1052DL
• Keysight U1620A
• SainSmart Nano DSO202
• Rigol DS1054Z
• Fluke ScopeMeter 190-504/S
• Kuman DSO 138
• All-Sun 3-in-1

We here at Circuit Specialists hope we helped you make an informed decision on your next purchases.

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