If you’re an electronics enthusiast or hobbyist, an oscilloscope is an essential tool to have in your arsenal. It allows you to visualize electrical signals and analyze them in detail, which is especially helpful when troubleshooting or testing circuits. But with so many different types and models available, it can be difficult to know which one is right for you. In this article, we’ll provide a comprehensive buying guide and review the 7 best oscilloscopes for hobbyists.
When choosing an oscilloscope, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key things to keep in mind:
- Bandwidth: This refers to the maximum frequency that the oscilloscope can accurately display. For hobbyist use, a bandwidth of 100 MHz or less should be sufficient.
- Sample rate: This is the frequency at which the oscilloscope takes samples of the input signal. The higher the sample rate, the more accurately the signal can be displayed. A sample rate of 1 GSa/s (gigasamples per second) is generally adequate for hobbyist use.
- Channels: The number of channels determines how many signals you can view simultaneously. For most hobbyists, a 2-channel oscilloscope is sufficient, although 4-channel models are also available.
- Display: Look for an oscilloscope with a clear and easy-to-read display. Some models have color displays, which can make it easier to distinguish between different signals.
- Price: Oscilloscopes can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. Determine your budget before making a purchase.
7 Best Oscilloscope For Hobbyist
1. The Siglent Technologies SDS1202X-E Digital Oscilloscope
- Large memory depth for longer waveform captures
- Intuitive user interface and easy-to-use controls
- Versatile trigger modes for various signal types
- Durable and reliable construction
The Siglent Technologies SDS1202X-E Digital Oscilloscope is a reliable and efficient tool for anyone in need of a high-quality oscilloscope. With a 200 MHz bandwidth, 1GSa/s sample rate, and 14Mpts memory depth, this oscilloscope can capture and display waveforms with incredible accuracy and precision. The 7-inch color display and intuitive user interface make it easy to navigate and use, even for beginners.
Where it Can be Used
This oscilloscope is perfect for use in a variety of settings, including research labs, electronics design and repair, manufacturing, and education. It is ideal for anyone who needs to analyze and measure electronic signals, including engineers, technicians, and hobbyists.
Specification
- Bandwidth: 200 MHz
- Channels: 2
- Sample rate: 1GSa/s
- Memory depth: 14Mpts
- Display: 7-inch color TFT-LCD
- Input impedance: 1MΩ ± 2%, 50Ω ± 2%
- Vertical sensitivity: 1mV/div to 10V/div
- Timebase range: 2ns/div to 50s/div
- Trigger modes: Edge, Pulse Width, Slope, Video, Pattern, Alternate
Pros
- High bandwidth and sample rate for accurate waveform capture
- Large memory depth for longer waveform captures
- Intuitive user interface and easy-to-use controls
- Versatile trigger modes for various signal types
- Durable and reliable construction
Cons
- No built-in signal generator
- Limited built-in analysis functions
Why You Should Buy
If you are in need of a reliable and high-performance oscilloscope, the Siglent Technologies SDS1202X-E is an excellent choice. With its advanced features and intuitive user interface, it is perfect for both beginners and experienced users. The high bandwidth and sample rate, as well as the large memory depth, make it ideal for capturing and analyzing complex waveforms. Although it may not have built-in analysis functions, it is still a powerful tool for anyone who needs to measure and analyze electronic signals.
2. The Rigol DS1054Z Digital Oscilloscopes
- It has a bandwidth of 50 MHz, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
- The 1 GSa/sec sampling rate and 24 Mpts memory depth provide a high level of accuracy and precision.
- The built-in software bundle BND-MSO/DS1000Z provides a wide range of features and capabilities, making it a comprehensive tool for testing and analysis.
If you are looking for a high-quality digital oscilloscope, the Rigol DS1054Z Digital Oscilloscopes might be the perfect choice for you. This oscilloscope has a bandwidth of 50 MHz and 4 channels, making it an excellent tool for testing and troubleshooting electronic circuits. In this review, we will discuss where it can be used, its specifications, pros and cons, and why you should buy it.
Where it can be used
The Rigol DS1054Z digital oscilloscope is a versatile tool that can be used in various fields, such as electrical engineering, physics, and telecommunications. It is commonly used for testing and analyzing electrical signals in circuits, including voltage, current, and frequency.
Specifications
- Bandwidth: 50 MHz
- Channels: 4
- Sampling rate: 1 GSa/sec
- Memory depth: 24 Mpts
- Serial decode included
- UltraVision technology: Deeper memory 24Mpts included
- Built-in software bundle BND-MSO/DS1000Z
Pros
- The Rigol DS1054Z digital oscilloscope has four channels, which is more than many other oscilloscopes in its price range.
- It has a bandwidth of 50 MHz, making it suitable for a wide range of applications.
- The 1 GSa/sec sampling rate and 24 Mpts memory depth provide a high level of accuracy and precision.
- The built-in software bundle BND-MSO/DS1000Z provides a wide range of features and capabilities, making it a comprehensive tool for testing and analysis.
- The oscilloscope’s compact size and lightweight make it easy to carry around.
Cons
- The screen resolution is not the highest, which may make it difficult to read small signals or waveforms.
Why you should buy it
If you are looking for a versatile and reliable digital oscilloscope, the Rigol DS1054Z is an excellent choice. It has a wide range of features and capabilities that make it suitable for various applications, from electrical engineering to physics and telecommunications. Its high sampling rate, deep memory, and built-in software bundle provide a high level of accuracy and precision, making it a comprehensive tool for testing and analysis. Its compact size and lightweight also make it easy to carry around, making it ideal for on-the-go testing and troubleshooting.
3. Siglent Technologies SDS1052DL+ 50 MHz Digital Storage Oscilloscope
- High-quality display with high resolution
- Advanced triggers for isolating specific signals
- Includes USB and LAN interfaces for easy data transfer
- Built-in frequency counter and automatic measurements
- Affordable price point for its features and quality
Siglent Technologies SDS1052DL+ 50 MHz Digital Storage Oscilloscope is a two-channel digital oscilloscope designed for electronics applications such as product design, assembly lines, repair and servicing, and electrical engineering education. This oscilloscope is a great choice for hobbyists and professionals who require a high-quality oscilloscope for their work.
Where it Can be Used
The Siglent Technologies SDS1052DL+ 50 MHz Digital Storage Oscilloscope is ideal for a wide range of applications, including:
- Electronics product design
- Production line testing and troubleshooting
- Repair and servicing of electronic equipment
- Electrical engineering education
Specification
The Siglent Technologies SDS1052DL+ 50 MHz Digital Storage Oscilloscope features the following specifications:
- Two channels
- Maximum real-time sample rate of 500MS/s (1 channel)
- Record length of 32Kpts (1 channel)
- 50MHz bandwidth
- New, higher resolution display
- Advanced triggers for isolation of specific signals
- Cursors, math, built-in frequency counter, and automatic measurements
- Includes USB and LAN interfaces
Pros
- High-quality display with high resolution
- Advanced triggers for isolating specific signals
- Includes USB and LAN interfaces for easy data transfer
- Built-in frequency counter and automatic measurements
- Affordable price point for its features and quality
Cons
- Limited record length
- Only two channels
Why You Should Buy
The Siglent Technologies SDS1052DL+ 50 MHz Digital Storage Oscilloscope is a great choice for hobbyists and professionals who require a high-quality oscilloscope for their work. It offers advanced features, such as advanced triggers for isolating specific signals, a built-in frequency counter, and automatic measurements, making it a versatile and powerful tool for a wide range of applications.
Furthermore, the oscilloscope comes with USB and LAN interfaces for easy data transfer, making it a convenient tool for those who need to share their data with others. Its affordable price point makes it an attractive option for those who need a high-quality oscilloscope without breaking the bank.
Overall, the Siglent Technologies SDS1052DL+ 50 MHz Digital Storage Oscilloscope is a great choice for anyone looking for a high-quality, versatile, and affordable oscilloscope for their work or hobby. Its advanced features and easy-to-use interface make it a popular choice among professionals and hobbyists alike.
4. Hantek DSO5202P
- The oscilloscope comes with multiple trigger modes that enable you to capture signals from various sources and in different shapes.
- It offers USB host and device connectivity, which makes it easy to connect to other devices such as a computer for further analysis.
Hantek DSO5202P is a digital storage oscilloscope that comes with advanced features for an efficient testing and measurement experience. With a 200MHz bandwidth, it provides a Real-Time sampling rate of 1GSa/s, which makes it an ideal tool for industrial and electronic troubleshooting. In this review, we will explore its features, pros, and cons to help you make an informed decision.
Where it Can be Used
This oscilloscope is versatile and can be used in various industries such as telecommunications, medical equipment, automotive, and manufacturing. It can help you in analyzing and troubleshooting issues in electronic circuits, waveforms, and signal testing.
Specifications
- 200MHz bandwidths;1GSa/s Real-Time sample rate.
- Large (7.0-inch) color display, WVGA(800×480); Record length up to 40K.
- Trigger mode: edge/pulse width/line selectable video/slop/overtime, etc.
- USB host and device connectivity, standard; Multiple automatic measurements.
- Four math functions, including FFTs standard; Provides software for PC real-time analysis.
Pros
- The large 7.0-inch color display offers clear and vivid waveform display, which makes it easy to read and analyze.
- It offers a high sampling rate of 1GSa/s and a long record length of 40K, which ensures that you can capture even the shortest of waveforms and make accurate measurements.
- The oscilloscope comes with multiple trigger modes that enable you to capture signals from various sources and in different shapes.
- It offers USB host and device connectivity, which makes it easy to connect to other devices such as a computer for further analysis.
Cons
- The user interface could be more intuitive, which may cause some difficulties for beginners who are not used to using an oscilloscope.
Why You Should Buy
If you are looking for an efficient and versatile oscilloscope, the Hantek DSO5202P is a great choice. It offers advanced features that make it suitable for a wide range of applications. Its large color display, high sampling rate, and long record length make it easy to capture and analyze even the most complex waveforms. The multiple trigger modes, automatic measurements, and FFTs function make it easy to get accurate measurements quickly. If you are in the electronics, telecommunications, or automotive industry, this oscilloscope can be a great investment.
5. The SainSmart DS212
- Portable and compact design
- Easy to use
- Built-in signal generator
- Color display
- Easy saving and managing of waveform data and images
- Widely applicable in various fields
The SainSmart DS212 is a portable, handheld mini digital storage oscilloscope that is both powerful and simple to use. It comes with a built-in signal generator and has modes of vertical precise, horizontal precise measurement, and triggering threshold. The operation is very simple and easy, using taps and swipes much like any smartphone. The oscilloscope has a small form factor that conveniently fits inside any pocket so it’s always ready when you need it.
Where it Can be Used
The DS212 is widely applicable in the academic experiment, electronics maintenance, electronic engineering tasks, etc. It can be used in any situation where a portable and compact oscilloscope is needed.
Specifications
- Vertical sensitivity: 10mV/Div – 10V/Div
- Horizontal sensitivity: 0.1uS/Div – 10S/Div
- Maximum input voltage: 50Vpk (1x probe)
- Input impedance: 1M ohm
- Maximum real-time sampling rate: 10MSa/s
- Maximum equivalent sampling rate: 100MSa/s
- Memory depth: 8K
- Screen size: 2.8 inch
- Battery type: 500mAh lithium battery
- Battery life: 3 hours
Pros
- Portable and compact design
- Easy to use
- Built-in signal generator
- Color display
- Easy saving and managing of waveform data and images
- Widely applicable in various fields
Cons
- Limited battery life
Why You Should Buy
The SainSmart DS212 Pocket Size Portable Handheld Mini Digital Storage Oscilloscope is a versatile and powerful tool that can be used in various fields such as academic experiments, electronics maintenance, electronic engineering tasks, etc. Its small form factor conveniently fits inside any pocket, making it the perfect tool for those who need a portable and compact oscilloscope. It is easy to use and has a built-in signal generator, color display, and easy saving and managing of waveform data and images. The only downside is its limited battery life and limited maximum input voltage. Overall, if you need a portable and powerful oscilloscope, the SainSmart DS212 is a great choice.
6. The Hantek DSO5072P
- Excellent performance and accuracy
- High-quality display with clear and sharp images
- User-friendly interface and controls
- Wide range of features and functions
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Delivered by Amazon USA with efficient service
If you are looking for a high-quality digital oscilloscope, the Hantek DSO5072P could be the right choice for you. This device offers a wide range of features and capabilities that make it a valuable tool for electronics enthusiasts, engineers, and technicians.
Where it Can be Used
The Hantek DSO5072P is a versatile instrument that can be used in various settings, including:
- Research labs
- Educational institutions
- Electronic repair shops
- DIY electronics projects
- Industrial automation and control
Specification
Here are the technical specifications of the Hantek DSO5072P:
- Bandwidth: 70 MHz
- Channels: Dual
- Real-Time Sample Rate: Up to 1 GSa/s
- Display: 7.0 inches
- Math functions: Four, including FFTs standard
- Automatic measurements: Multiple
- Power supply: US Plug
Pros
- Excellent performance and accuracy
- High-quality display with clear and sharp images
- User-friendly interface and controls
- Wide range of features and functions
- Compact and lightweight design for easy portability
- Delivered by Amazon USA with efficient service
Cons
- The probe quality could be better
Why You Should Buy
Overall, the Hantek DSO5072P is an excellent digital oscilloscope that offers high performance, accuracy, and versatility. With its dual-channel design, 70 MHz bandwidth, and 1 GSa/s real-time sample rate, it can handle a wide range of electronic signals and applications.
Moreover, this device comes with multiple math functions, including FFTs, and automatic measurements that make it easier to analyze and understand complex signals. The user-friendly interface and controls also add to the convenience and ease of use of this device.
While there are some minor issues with the fan noise and probe quality, the Hantek DSO5072P remains a valuable and reliable tool for anyone working with electronics. It is also delivered by Amazon USA with efficient service, making it a convenient and hassle-free purchase.
7. The Hantek 2C42 Handheld Oscilloscope Multimeter
- Portable and easy to use
- Combines the functionality of a digital oscilloscope and a digital multimeter in one device
- Offers a wide range of measurement and analysis features
- High sensitivity and accuracy
- Strong anti-overload capability
- 1-year warranty with 30 days worry-free return
The Hantek 2C42 Handheld Oscilloscope Multimeter is a 2 in 1 multifunction tester that combines the functionality of a digital oscilloscope and a digital multimeter in one device. This device is perfect for hobbyists and professionals who need a portable and convenient tool for measuring and analyzing electronic signals.
Where it Can be Used
This handheld oscilloscope multimeter is ideal for use in a variety of industrial and educational settings, such as electronics workshops, laboratories, and classrooms. It can be used for a wide range of applications, including troubleshooting electronic devices, testing circuits and components, and measuring electronic signals.
Specifications
- Function: Oscilloscope + Multimeter
- 40 MHz Digital Oscilloscope with 2 channels
- Sample Rate Range 250MSa/s(Single-channel), 125MSa/s(Dual-channel)
- Simplify operation, convenient to use: 250M Sampling rate, 40MHZ Bandwidth. 10MV-10V Vertical resolution
- Auto automatic measuring function
- Key tone settings, Adjustable backlight brightness, Backlight, duration and auto power off time
- Digital voltmeter function
- Cursor measurement, reference waveform, waveform Storage function
- Multifunction Digital Multimeter Function
- High sensitivity and accuracy, showing clear, strong anti-overload capability, easy to carry
- Digital multimeter which can be used to measure AC/DC voltage/current, resistance, diode, capacitance, on-off test
- 1 year warranty with 30 days worry-free return
Pros
- Portable and easy to use
- Combines the functionality of a digital oscilloscope and a digital multimeter in one device
- Offers a wide range of measurement and analysis features
- High sensitivity and accuracy
- Strong anti-overload capability
- 1-year warranty with 30 days worry-free return
Cons
- Waveform generator cannot be used
Why You Should Buy
The Hantek 2C42 Handheld Oscilloscope Multimeter is an excellent choice for anyone who needs a portable and versatile tool for measuring and analyzing electronic signals. Its combination of a digital oscilloscope and a digital multimeter makes it a powerful and convenient device for a wide range of applications. Its high sensitivity and accuracy, along with its strong anti-overload capability, make it a reliable tool for both hobbyists and professionals. Additionally, the 1-year warranty with 30 days worry-free return provides peace of mind for buyers.
Conclusion
Choosing the right oscilloscope can be overwhelming, but by considering the factors above and reviewing our top picks, you can find the perfect model for your needs. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced hobbyist, one of these oscilloscopes is sure to meet your requirements and help you take your projects to the next level.