OVERVIEW: What are the best EMF test meters on the market? This in-depth, straightforward guide reviews the most popular EMF meters and body voltage meters to help you measure electromagnetic frequencies like a pro.
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How do you know if your home is flooded with EMF radiation?
How do you determine the sources of this EMF radiation?
Also, after mitigating the EMF dangers you discover, how will you know if make effective changes?
Thankfully, EMF radiation is entirely measurable. A solid EMF test meter will give you reliable, objective data to work this.
But how do you choose the best EMF meter for your situation?
Let’s dive right in …
What is EMF?
EMF stands for electromagnetic frequency. Natural EMFs are derived from nature (for example, from the sun and the earth). But generally, “EMF” refers to man-made or non-native EMF.
A growing body of research and evidence suggests that overexposure to non-native EMF harms the human body and nature.
Common Sources of EMF Radiation
Common sources of EMF radiation include:
- Electrical wiring in homes and buildings
- Outdoor power lines
- Cell towers
- Smart meters
- Home appliances
- Microwaves
- Electronic devices like smartphones, laptops, tablets, and modems
- Wi-Fi routers and any wireless or “smart” devices
- Bluetooth-enabled technology
Unfortunately, non-native electromagnetic frequencies litter the modern world and influence our biology and nature in ways we’re just beginning to understand.
What is an EMF Test Meter?
An EMF test meter is a hand-held device that measures electromagnetic frequencies.
EMF test meters measure at least one of the following three forms of EMF:
- Electric fields
- Magnetic fields
- Radio frequencies (RF)
It is important to measure all three fields. Many of the best EMF test meters measure all three forms of EMF. They are called “tri-mode,” “tri-field,” or three-in-one meters.
(A fourth form of EMF is called “Dirty Electricity.” I may cover dirty electricity meters in a future review.)
Knowing the Electromagnetic Fields
Let’s take a closer look at each of these three fields:
Electric fields
An electric field is generated by the difference in electrical charges between at least two objects.
Electrical wiring in the walls, outlets, and any electronic device or power cords are common sources of electric fields in a home.
Electric fields are measured in volts per meter.
Magnetic fields
Electrical currents and magnets generate magnetic fields, which generally have lower frequencies than electric fields and radio frequencies.
Magnetic fields can be measured from electrical wiring, appliances, and outside powerlines. (Most things that produce an electric field also produce a magnetic field reading.)
Magnetic fields can pass through most substances—including the human body. EMF meters that measure magnetic fields are technically called Gauss meters.
Magnetic fields are measured in Gauss or Telsa units.
Radio Frequency (RF) fields
Radio frequencies create high-frequency radiation. RF fields are known as microwave radiation or wireless radiation.
Common sources of RF radiation are smartphones, Wi-Fi routers, Bluetooth-enabled devices, and cell towers.
RF fields have significantly higher frequencies than electric or magnetic fields.
RF fields are measured in watts per meter or volts per meter.
Knowing Electromagnetic Frequency Ranges
Each field has a particular frequency range. Each EMF test meter has different measuring capabilities for these fields.
Approximate frequency coverage ranges for many EMF test meters are:
AC Electric Field: 40 HZ to 10 kHz measured in Volts per meter (V/m)
AC Magnetic Field: 40 Hz to 10 kHz measured in Gauss (G), milliGause (mG), milliTesla (mT) or microTesla (µT)
Radio Frequency (RF) Field: 100 MHz to 10 GHz (or higher) measured in Watts per square meter (W/m²) or Volts per meter (V/m)
Understanding Unsafe EMF Levels on Your Meter
Unfortunately, there are no universal standardized “safe” levels for EMF exposure.
However, if you pay attention to the EMF experts with 20+ years of experience, you find a theme: there are no “safe levels” for non-native EMF. As such, we want to reduce our EMF exposure as much as possible.
That said, I concur with EMF expert Lloyd Burrell’s recommendation:
You want to have your EMF readings to be 0.1 volt per meter or below. This is the maximum for people who don’t have symptoms. People who are especially sensitive to EMF (called EHS or electromagnetic frequency hypersensitivity syndrome) need readings to be 0.01 V/m or below.
Some other EMF experts say that 3 V/m is still safe.
Here’s an EMF safety level reference table:
| EMF Field | EMF Safety Level |
| Electric Fields | Below 0.1 V/m or 3 V/m |
| Magnetic Fields | Below 1 mG(1https://www.icnirp.org/cms/upload/publications/ICNIRPemfgdl.pdf) |
| RF Fields | Below 1 mW/m²(2https://transition.fcc.gov/Bureaus/Engineering_Technology/Documents/bulletins/oet56/oet56e4.pdf) |
These suggested EMF safety levels are for long-term health from prolonged exposure.
Why EMF Test Meters Are Important
If you haven’t read it already, I highly recommend reviewing this guide on EMF protection.
The first portion of this guide illustrates EMF’s harmful effects on our biology—not just from thousands of published studies but with easy-to-see blood analysis.
Using a trusted EMF test meter is the first step in locating the sources of EMF radiation in your home.
Next, you can take appropriate actions to mitigate these effects.
Finally, you can use the EMF meter again to confirm the efficacy of your actions.
A reliable EMF test meter provides objective data—before and after.
How to Choose the Best EMF Test Meter
When choosing an EMF test meter, there are numerous features to consider:
Functionality: Does the meter measure electric, magnetic, and/or radio frequencies? Is it an all-in-one (3-in-one) meter?
Range: Each EMF test meter has a specific range for its testing value. For instance, high-quality meters can test radio frequencies (wireless) in the 5G range while cheaper options do not.
Accuracy: Precision or accuracy is another important EMF testing factor. Professional meters have a higher degree of accuracy.
Display: Is the meter’s display clear and easy to read? Does it highlight when the range levels become dangerous?
Ease of Use: Are the functions and options on the meter easy to navigate?
Sound: Does the meter produce any sounds associated with the detected electromagnetic frequencies? Sound analysis provides a powerful additional dimension to EMF detection.
Price: Pricing for EMF test meters ranges from $20 to over $2,000. (All but one of the EMF meters featured here cost less than $200.)
With the above factors, let’s review the best EMF test meters for most general-use applications.
The Best EMF Test Meters on the Market
As stated above, EMF test meters measure AC magnetic, AC electric, and RF (radio frequency/microwave) levels.
If you want to mitigate harmful EMF radiation, you need to be able to measure all three fields.
Now, let’s run through some excellent options.
Disclaimer: This guide contains affiliate links. If you choose to purchase these products through these links, I receive a nominal commission. This does not affect what you pay in any way.
TriField TF2 | EMF Test Meter
One of the most popular EMF test meters for novices and professionals is the TriField EMF Meter Model TF2 (Amazon). The reason it’s one of the best EMF meters is four-fold:
- Measures all three fields. It’s an AC gauss meter, AC electric field meter, and radio power density meter all in one.
- Fast and accurate.
- Easy-to-read digital display.
- Simple to use. It has one clearly marked, color-coded dial with six basic settings.
It’s also durable. I’ve had this meter for many years and it still works great.
It is highly accurate and sensitive in both magnetic and electric field modes (down to 1 V/m for electric).
The sound feature emits a tone that varies in frequency and intensity based on the EMF detected. (Remove the battery cover to adjust the sound feature (on/off) and the back-lit screen.)
The Trifield’s range is slightly limited compared to some of the other EMF test meters on the market. It may not detect certain 5G-related wireless frequencies.
Also, the TriField doesn’t help you interpret the displayed data (compared to the Safe and Sound Pro II listed below, for instance), which may be a factor if you aren’t familiar with the range values.
Regardless, TriField TF2 is a solid meter and an excellent choice for beginners and EMF professionals.
EMF Detection Range:
- Electric fields: 40 Hz – 100 KHz
- Magnetic fields: 40 Hz – 100 KHz
- Radio frequencies: 20 MHz – 6 GHz
Pricing
The TriField TFS is priced at around 180 USD.
Cornet ED88TPLUS 5G2 | EMF Test Meter
The Cornet Electrosmog Meter (Amazon) is another excellent, well-regarded EMF test meter worth considering. Many EMF professionals recommend Cornet meters.
The meter’s display provides real-time waveform logging so you can see a visual representation of the EMF waves. Cornet’s meters also provide a sound signature analysis for EMF frequencies.
Cornet’s all-in-one meter measures low-frequency magnetic fields, electric fields, and RF data.
The powerful EMF meter can measure 5G fields with RF frequencies up to 8 GHz.
The main drawback of this EMF test meter is its design. Compared to other meters, Cornet is less user-friendly for beginners.
Also, it offers limited sensitivity in electric field mode, only measuring down to 10 V/m (which seems like a huge limitation).
Despite these limitations, the Cornet ED88TPLUS 5G2 is an accurate, powerful, versatile all-in-one EMF test meter.
EMF Detection Range:
- Electric fields: 50 Hz – 50 KHz (10 V/m to 100 V/m)
- Magnetic Fields: 50 Hz – 10 KHz
- RF Fields: 100 MHz – 8 GHz
Pricing
The Cornet ED88TPLUS 5G2 is priced at around 199 USD.
Safe and Sound Pro II | EMF Test Meter
If you’re serious about testing wireless-related EMF levels in your environment, check out the Safe and Sound Pro II by Safe Living Technologies.
This is another professional-grade EMF test meter with precision accuracy for measuring RF radiation.
This easy-to-use EMF meter effectively measures radio frequencies from 200 MHz to 8 GHz. (For contrast, Trifield’s RF mode measures 20 MHz to 6 GHz.)
It has been third-party tested and can test most 5G frequencies. The digital display shows the RF levels in microwatts per square meter (μW/m²) or milliwatts per square meter (mW/m²).
The lights on the display help indicate the intensity of the EMF radiation. Four different range values—Slight, Moderate, High, and Extreme—blink lights from green (Slight) to red (Extreme), making it easy to determine the EMF danger level.
The most powerful feature of Safe and Sound Pro II is its “sound signature analysis.” While it’s one thing to see the gauge display determine the EMF level, hearing the sounds/frequencies associated with the electromagnetic frequencies is a more persuasive sensory experience.
This meter has virtually no learning curve. Simply switch it to “On” (with volume), and you’ll be ready to go.
The main downside to Safe and Sound Pro II is that it only measures radio frequency and microwave signals—not magnetic and electrical fields.
EMF Detection Range:
- RF Fields: 200 MHz – 8 GHz
Pricing
The other potential downside of Safe and Sound Pro II is the price (relative to other EMF meters reviewed here). It’s generally priced at 399 USD.
Safe and Sound Classic III | EMF Test Meter
If price is a concern, Safe Living also makes a more affordable version without the digital display.
The Safe and Sound Classic III still provides the true response detection range for RF frequencies of 200 MHz to 8 GHz.
The specific RF value on the digital display is not essential information for most individuals. Most people just want to know the basic range of RF radiation, and that’s what the Safe and Sound Classic III delivers.
In my opinion, an ideal combination is the Safe and Sound Classic III and the TriField TF2.
EMF Detection Range:
- RF Fields: 200 MHz – 8 GHz
Pricing
Priced at around $169.
ERICKHILL EMF Meter | EMF Test Meter
All the best EMF test meters listed above can be pricey if you’re on a tight budget. They are, however, all highly accurate, precise, durable, and professional grade meters—with sufficient range to meet all your testing needs.
That said, I did want to include one more budget-friendly EMF test meter.
ERICKHILL’s EMF test meters have been around for years, offering well-reviewed intro-level devices.
The ERICKHILL Detector is simple to use and has a large, clear display.
An alarm sounds and the screen turns red when the EMF testing value exceeds 0.4µT (4 mG) or 40 V/m.
It tests electric and magnetic fields within a limited range and does not measure RF (wireless) radiation.
It’s a perfectly fine EMF test meter to start testing your appliances and devices around the house.
EMF Detection Range:
- Electric fields: 5Hz to 3500MHz
- Magnetic fields: 5Hz to 3500MHz
Pricing
The ERICKHILL EMF Meter retails for $48—currently on sale for $39.
How to Use an EMF Test Meter
Once you’re accustomed to the basic functionality of your EMF test meter, you’re ready to take readings.
For instance, walk around your home with the EMF meter in hand.
Notice any fluctuations or spikes in the readings.
I recommend starting with the RF frequency range. Scan your computers, phones, routers, and other devices. Pay particular attention to wireless routers and anything “smart.”
Next, switch to the electric or magnetic field settings on your meter.
Take a reading next to each of your appliances, your light fixtures, and your outlets.
Then, walk around outside your house (or apartment building) and take additional readings.
How to Test the Range of an EMF Field
To test the range of a particular EMF field, start with the meter next to the source (appliance/device/outlet).
Then, slowly back away from the source, paying attention to how the EMF test meter reading changes based on proximity and distance.
(Of course, be mindful of any additional EMF sources in your environment when you do this.)
Where to Use Your EMF Test Meter
Use your EMF test meter in proximity to the following:
On RF mode:
- Wi-Fi router
- Smartphone
- Computers
- Other wireless devices
- Microwaves
On Electric mode:
- Electrical wiring
- Walls
- Outlets
- Power cords
- Appliances
- Televisions
On Magnetic mode:
- Power lines
- Household appliances
- (Everything else listed under “Electric”)
Also, use the EMF test meter in your vehicle. Start on the RF setting. Take a reading with the vehicle off and then after ignition.
Then, switch to electric and magnetic measurements.
Body Voltage Meters
When individuals first learn about the harmful effects of EMF, they start with an EMF test meter. By using it around the house and office, you can determine the primary sources of EMF radiation and begin mitigating these effects.
Then, if you want to determine how EMF fields affect your body (and the rest of your family’s), invest in a body voltage meter.
What is a Body Voltage Meter?
As the name implies, a body voltage meter gives you a relatively accurate average reading of the overall AC voltage from electrical fields.
A body voltage meter answers the question:
How much voltage is running through my body from EMF right now?
A body voltage tester is essentially a multimeter (used by electricians) with specific attachments, such as a hand probe and a grounding spike.
Body voltage kits often include additional grounding leads, outlet testers, and non-contact voltage testers.
A body voltage meter is another powerful tool providing real-time data on how AC electric fields affect your body.
This kit is especially important if you are electrosensitive or electrohypersensitive (EHS) or if you have trouble sleeping at night.
A body voltage meter also helps you determine the efficacy of your EMF protection strategies and indicates how grounded you are.
Here are two body voltage kits to consider:
Body Voltage Kit by EMFSafe | Body Voltage Meter
The best option is the Body Voltage Kit (BVK) from EMFSafe.
I prefer this body voltage meter because it has an easy-to-read display and a better-quality hand probe.
The hand probe connects to the meter, so you can easily hold both the probe and the meter in one hand and take accurate readings.
More importantly, if you’re serious about reducing EMF in your home, you’ll definitely want the included “E” pen. EMFSafe’s “E” pen is like a non-contact voltage meter on steroids.
As the name suggests, a non-contact voltage meter helps you determine whether or not a wire has electricity running through it. However, the average non-contact meter used by electricians has a very limited range compared to the one included in this kit.
This complete kit comes with:
- True RMS Body Voltage Meter (milli-volts) with easy-to-read OLED Color screen.
- Solid hand probe with a connecting cord
- Outlet tester
- 12ft grounding cord with alligator clip
- 9” ground spike for out-door grounding
- ”E” pen (to find and trace hidden circuits)
- Instructions
- High-quality carrying case
If you choose this body voltage kit from EMFSafe, use code CEOSAGE at checkout for an additional 10% discount.
Body Voltage Home Test Kit by Safe Living | Body Voltage Meter
A second option is Safe Living’s Body Voltage Home Test Kit.
This kit will indicate the average level of AC voltage in the body from your surroundings. However, it does not include a non-contact voltage meter like the kit above.
This body voltage test kit comes with:
- Body voltage meter
- Test lead for hand probe
- Test lead for grounding
- Hand probe
- Ground plug for 120 VAC electrical outlet
- Ground clip
- Outlet tester
- 4 AAA alkaline batteries
- Instructions
- Delux plastic carrying case
This kit has everything you need to determine body voltage from electric fields. Here’s a video demonstration of how to use it:
How to Use a Body Voltage Meter
To use a body voltage meter to take a reading, follow these steps:
- First ground the meter using one of two methods:
- Insert the grounding spike in the ground outside and run the cord through a nearby window, or
- Plug the grounding cord into the ground port in a nearby outlet.
- Turn the voltage meter to the voltage setting (usually “V”); make sure it’s set to AC (alternating current).
- Hold the hand probe securely.
- Take a reading.
If you stand barefoot in your home when using a body voltage meter, you can potentially disrupt the reading (because you’re grounded). Instead, either wear shoes or lie down in bed.
A body voltage meter is often used in the bedroom to determine the voltage running through you and your family when sleeping.
Safe Readings on Body Voltage Meters
According to EMF consultant Anthony Smith at EMFSafe, a reading above 0.999 millivolts in the daytime requires EMF mitigation.
At night, a reading above 0.1000 millivolts requires attention.
Basically:
- Daytime: 1 volt or less should be traveling through your body
- Nighttime: Less than 0.1000 should be traveling through you when sleeping
If the body voltage reads above these acceptable values, use your EMF test reader to determine the sources.
You can also use a non-contact voltage pen (“E” pen) to detect, find, and trace hidden circuits in the walls.
Then, you’re ready to begin deploying EMF protection strategies for your home.
My Experience Using a Body Voltage Meter and “E” Pen
I live in a relatively low EMF environment as I’ve been mitigating EMF for many years.
Still, I was mortified to discover how much voltage my body was receiving just from the electricity running through the wires in the walls (and from the basement below my bedroom).
After following the final steps to remove this EMF as discussed in this guide, I immediately noticed the difference in my sleep quality.
Why? Arguably, our bodies are not meant to have non-native voltage running through them. This alternative current (AC) negatively affects the autonomic nervous system, our organs, and our cells.
Without the bombardment of non-native EMF, the body can actually relax and restore itself.
So I highly recommend investing the time and money to go through this process for yourself and your family.
Do You Need the Best EMF Meter?
I consider an EMF test meter an essential tool for anyone aware of the real dangers EMF has on our long-term physical and mental health.
The reality is that we all adopted an electric or digital way of being without forethought or analysis.
If the majority became fully conscious of what EMF radiation is doing to us, I’m confident major changes would be made.
An EMF test meter provides important data. Using an EMF meter is an educational process that can lead to significant behavioral changes.
The TriField TF2, Cornet ED88TPLUS 5G2, and Safe and Sound Pro II are some of the best EMF meters on the market.
But you don’t need the best EMF test meter.
Any EMF meter is better than no meter. A low-budget option will still provide important insights into the sources and severity of EMF in your environment.
Good luck!
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