The oscilloscope is one of the best devices for analyzing circuits and signals. But choosing the right oscilloscope is very important because if you choose the wrong oscilloscope, you could pay extra money. If you are new to electronics and don’t know how to choose the best oscilloscope for you, then this article will help you. In this article, I will explain the key factors in choosing the best oscilloscope for Hobbyists or Makers.
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What is Oscilloscope?
An oscilloscope is a scientific instrument used to visually display and analyze electrical signals over time. It is commonly used in electronics, physics, engineering, and other fields to observe the behavior of electrical circuits and waveforms.
Why do you need an Oscilloscope?
You may need an oscilloscope for various reasons, particularly if you work with electronics, electrical systems, or related fields. Here are some common scenarios where an oscilloscope is useful:
- Signal Analysis: An oscilloscope allows you to visually observe and analyze electrical signals. This is invaluable for understanding the behavior of a circuit, diagnosing issues, and verifying the quality of signals.
- Troubleshooting: When something goes wrong with an electronic circuit, an oscilloscope can help you pinpoint the problem by showing where the signal is distorted, attenuated, or otherwise behaving abnormally.
- Measuring Waveforms: You can use an oscilloscope to measure key characteristics of electrical waveforms, such as voltage amplitude, frequency, phase, and rise/fall times. This information is crucial for designing and testing electronic circuits.
- Testing and Validation: Engineers and technicians use oscilloscopes to validate the performance of electronic devices, ensuring they meet design specifications and standards.
The Key Factors to Choose an Oscilloscope
There are hundreds of types of oscilloscopes available on the market. As a hobbyist or beginner in electronics, you do not need to buy a high-configuration oscilloscope. So, choosing the right oscilloscope is very important because it may save you money and time. There are several factors involved in choosing the right oscilloscope. Here are some key factors to consider before buying an oscilloscope.
Bandwidth:
Bandwidth is the fundamental ability to measure an analog signal. Always remember the five-time rule. Your oscilloscope must have five times the bandwidth of your signal. For example, if your signal bandwidth is 20 MHz, then your oscilloscope should have a 100 MHz bandwidth.
Sample Rate:
The sample rate of an oscilloscope is almost similar to the resolution of a mobile camera. With a high-resolution camera, you can capture a high-quality image. The sample rate of an oscilloscope determines how accurately it captures a signal. A higher sample rate means a better web form. Choose an oscilloscope that has a five-times greater than your circuit’s frequency components.
Number of Channels:
The number of channels in an oscilloscope determines how many signals it can measure at the same time. Most oscilloscopes come with either two or four channels, although some models can have more than that. Two channels are generally sufficient for beginners, but professionals may find a four-channel oscilloscope more suitable. In situations where complex circuits are involved, oscilloscopes with a higher number of channels may be necessary.
Memory Capacity:
The memory capacity of an oscilloscope refers to the amount of data or samples it can hold. A higher memory capacity in an oscilloscope allows it to capture and display a longer time span of the signal, facilitating a more thorough analysis.
Display:
When choosing an oscilloscope display, consider factors such as display size, resolution, touchscreen vs. traditional interface, color and contrast, waveform persistence, user interface usability, built-in measurements, connectivity options, portability, budget constraints, brand reputation, and user reviews.
Price:
As a hobbyist or beginner, you do not need a high-budget or high-configuration oscilloscope. Compare two or more oscilloscope bands and get the one that is suitable for you.
List of Best Budget Oscilloscopes for Hobbyists and Makers (2024)
| MODEL | BANDWIDTH | NUMBER OF CHANNELS | REAL-TIME SAMPLING RATE | MEMORY DEPTH | PURCHASE LINK |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Siglent SDS1104X-E | 100 MHz | 4 | 1 GSa/s | 14 Mpts | Check On Amazon |
| Hantek DSO2C10 | 100 MHz | 2 | 1 GSa/s | 8 Mpts | Check On Amazon |
| Siglent SDS1202X-E | 200 MHz | 2 | 1 GSa/s | 14 Mpts | Check On Amazon |
| YEAPOOK ADS1014D | 100 MHz | 2 | 1 GSa/s | 240Kbit | Check On Amazon |
| Hantek 2C72 | 70 MHz | 2 | 250MSa/s | Check On Amazon |
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Siglent Technologies SDS1104X-E
Image source: www.amazon.com
As a hobbyist or beginner, you need a reliable and easy-to-use oscilloscope. So, the Siglent Technologies SDS1104X-E is the best choice for you. Its latest technology gives you the best experience in analyzing various signals and circuits. It has lower noise than other oscilloscopes. It has four channels, so you can analyze four different signals at a time.
Specifications:
- Bandwidth: 100 MHz
- Number of Channels: 4
- Real-time sample rate: 1 GSa/s
- Memory depth: 14 Mpts
- Display: TFT Color Temperature Display
Siglent Technologies SDS1104X-E Purchase Link: Amazon
Hantek DSO2C10 Digital Storage Oscilloscope
Image source: www.amazon.com
If you want to buy a low price Oscilloscope but with batter performance then, Hantek DSO2C10 is an option. Hantek’s DSO2C10 oscilloscope is a versatile tool for analyzing protocols like RS232/UART, I2C, SPI, CAN, and LIN, making it ideal for personal hobbies, maintenance, and small-scale laboratory use. This instrument is beneficial for various fields like communication, embedded systems, computers, research, and education.
Specifications:
- Bandwidth: 100 MHz
- Number of Channels: 2
- Real-time sample rate: 1 GSa/s
- Memory depth: 8 Mpts
- Display: TFT Display
Hantek DSO2C10 Purchase Link: Amazon
Siglent Technologies SDS1202X-E
Image source: www.amazon.com
If you need higher bandwidth for analyzing signals then this Siglent Technologies SDS1202X-E is good one. Also if you don’t need more than two channels then, this is for you. Siglent’s new oscilloscopes offer powerful features and high performance, unlike similar products in the industry. With a minimum vertical input range of 500 UV/Div, an innovative digital trigger system, and 256-level intensity Grading display function, these oscilloscopes offer superior performance and low noise compared to similar products. Their unique features and hardware co-processor ensure quick and accurate measurements.
Specifications:
- Bandwidth: 200 MHz
- Number of Channels: 2
- Real-time sample rate: 1 GSa/s
- Memory depth: 14 Mpts
- Display: TFT Display
Siglent Technologies SDS1202X-E Purchase Link: Amazon
YEAPOOK ADS1014D
Image source: www.amazon.com
YEAPOOK ADS1014D is a low-priced high-performance oscilloscope. It is easy to use. It has a 100 MHz bandwidth that is enough for mid-range signal analysis. So, if you are new to electronics, then this is a game changer for you. But remember it has very low memory depth.
Specifications:
- Bandwidth: 100 MHz
- Number of Channels: 2
- Real-time sample rate: 1 GSa/s
- Memory depth: 240Kbit
- Display: TFT Display
YEAPOOK ADS1014D Purchase Link: Amazon
Hantek 2C72 Handheld Oscilloscope Multimeter 2 in 1
Image source: www.amazon.com
This is one of the best handheld oscilloscopes on the market. You can easily carry this device wherever you want to go. But from a performance point of view, it is the same as other lab oscilloscopes. Therefore, it is a very effective device for students and hobbyists. Also, it has a built-in multimeter, so you don’t need to buy an extra multimeter. Also, you can generate various signals with this multimeter. for example. Sign wave, square wave, etc. Therefore, this Hantek 2C72 is one of the best choices for students and hobbyists.
Specifications:
- Bandwidth: 70 MHz
- Number of Channels: 2 + Digital Multimeter
- Real-time sample rate: 250MSa/s
- Memory depth: –
- Display: LCD screen
Hantek 2C72 Purchase Link: Amazon
My Recommendation
Overall, all of these oscilloscopes give you better performance. I prefer to buy a high-configuration oscilloscope because it allows you to analyze more than two signals and gives you a wider band width. Therefore, Siglent Technologies SDS1104X-E will be a good option. But if your budget is low then go for Hantek DSO2C10.
