10 Best Light Meters 2025 in the United States

The Klein Tools ET130 Digital Light Meter is designed for those who need an efficient way to measure light levels, making it suitable for electricians, HVAC professionals, and anyone involved in lighting analysis. One of its strong points is its user-friendly interface, which allows users to operate it without complicated setups. The ability to measure light in both Foot Candles and Lux provides a comprehensive understanding of lighting conditions, catering to different preferences and requirements.

This meter offers both auto and manual range settings, with a maximum range of 4000 FC and 40,000 Lux. This flexibility is a significant advantage for various applications, from residential to commercial spaces. The backlit LCD display and 40-segment bar graph make it easy to read measurements, even in dim lighting, enhancing usability on job sites.

Conveniently, the ET130 includes features such as data hold and Max/Min readings, which can assist in detailed analysis. The auto power-off feature helps conserve battery life, which is beneficial for users who may forget to switch it off after use. Plus, it comes with a carrying pouch and a 9V battery, enabling immediate use and portability.

The Extech SDL400 Light Meter SD Logger is designed for those needing reliable light measurement, making it a suitable choice for professionals in photography, horticulture, and industrial settings. One of its standout features is the wide measuring range, capable of measuring up to 10,000 foot-candles or 100,000 Lux, which is beneficial for a variety of lighting conditions. Additionally, the light meter utilizes a precision silicon photo diode that ensures accurate readings, complemented by cosine and color-corrected measurement capabilities, enhancing its reliability.

The datalogging feature allows users to timestamp and store readings on an SD card in an Excel format, making it easy to transfer data to a computer for analysis. This can be particularly useful for projects that require extensive documentation of light levels over time. The inclusion of an offset adjustment feature also allows for relative measurements, adding another layer of convenience for users.

While the SDL400 requires six AA batteries, which might be an inconvenience for some users who prefer rechargeable options, it has a user-friendly design. However, those unfamiliar with similar devices might still find it takes some time to learn all its features. As it was first available in 2012, while it remains effective, newer models may offer advanced technology and features that could be worth considering for some users. This light meter is a solid option for anyone needing accurate and versatile light measurements with the added benefits of data logging.

The Extech LT40 LED Light Meter is a well-designed tool for measuring light levels, particularly suitable for users who need accurate readings for LED lighting. One of its main strengths is its high accuracy, which is crucial for professionals in fields like photography, horticulture, and electronics where precise light measurements matter. The digital display is user-friendly, showing real-time readings along with minimum and maximum values, which helps users monitor changes effectively.

Another notable feature is the USB interface that allows for easy setup and data downloads. This can be particularly helpful for users who want to analyze data on their computers using the included analysis software, compatible with older Windows versions. The flexibility in data sampling rates—from 1 second to 24 hours—adds to its versatility, making it suitable for both quick checks and long-term monitoring.

The device’s reliance on 2 AAA batteries, while common, does mean users will need to keep replacements handy. The product's plastic construction, although lightweight and portable, may raise concerns about durability compared to more robust options made from metal or higher-grade materials. Additionally, it lacks some advanced features that other light meters might offer, such as Bluetooth connectivity for modern data transfer or extended compatibility with newer operating systems. The Extech LT40 is a solid choice for adults needing a reliable light meter, especially for LED applications. Its strength lies in its accuracy and user-friendly design, but potential buyers should consider its limitations in durability and advanced features depending on their specific needs.