HIOKI FT6031-50 vs FT6031-90: which earth tester to buy

About the Author

Sesera editorial account organizes laptop, mini PC, smartphone, and gadget buying guides so readers can check the important points before buying.

When you look up the FT6031-50, the FT6031-90 and Kyoritsu earth testers also show up as candidates. The model numbers are close, and the differences are hard to tell apart.

In particular, the FT6031-50 and FT6031-90 differ mainly in accessories, not in the performance of the instrument itself. The choice splits on whether you will use wireless communication from the start.

This article organizes the FT6031-50’s traits and the gaps versus comparison models, and sums up purchase candidates by use.

The conclusion first

The FT6031-50 is a digital earth tester for people who measure Class A through Class D with the three-electrode method.

The measurement range is 0–2000Ω, and it also supports the two-electrode method. Dust and water protection is IP67.

If you will use Bluetooth from the start, pick the FT6031-90, which includes wireless adapter Z3210.

Quick table by condition

From the measurement method you need and whether you need wireless, you can narrow the purchase candidates.

If you will use the three-electrode method, the FT6031-50 is the main pick. If you only use the two-pole method, a dedicated simple tester can still cover the job.

Difference from the 90

If you are choosing between the FT6031-50 and FT6031-90, the difference to look at is simple.

The FT6031-90 is a set of the FT6031-50 and Z3210. Measurement performance of the instrument is equivalent.

If you will send readings to a phone, the FT6031-90 is the pick. If you will not use wireless, the FT6031-50 is the pick.

Difference from other makers

If you include makers besides HIOKI, Kyoritsu Electrical Instruments and Sanwa Electric Instrument also have comparison candidates.

If you also want to compare another maker’s product with Bluetooth included, the KEW 4105DLBT-H is a strong candidate.

The PDR-302 is analog. If you want a digital display and optional wireless later, the FT6031-50 is the pick.

Who the FT6031-50 fits

The FT6031-50 fits people who match all of the following.

• Use the three-electrode method
• Measure Class A through Class D
• Need IP67
• Want a digital display
• Will add Bluetooth only when it becomes necessary

If you will not use Bluetooth every time, the FT6031-50 is the pick.

If you only use the two-pole method, you can also consider a dedicated simple tester such as the Kyoritsu Electrical Instruments 4300.

How to pick add-on parts

Add-on parts such as measurement cords must be a model that states it matches the FT6031-50.

Both the L9845-31 and L9845-33 can be used with the FT6031-50.

A 25m cord will not fit in included case C0106.

There are also products for the FT6041, so on add-on parts confirm the text that they match the FT6031-50.

Q&A

Can you use it outdoors in winter?

The FT6031-50 operating temperature is -25 to 65°C, so you can use it outdoors below freezing.

It also has IP67 dust and water protection, so it is the pick for people who often use it outdoors.

If you want under 600g, which one?

Among the digital models compared, the FT6031-50 at about 570g is the pick.

The KEW 4105DLBT-H is about 690g, so if you want the instrument under 600g, pick the FT6031-50.

Which one to buy?

If you measure Class A–D with the three-electrode method and do not need Bluetooth, the HIOKI FT6031-50 is the pick.

HIOKI FT6031-50

Check on Amazon

If you will use Bluetooth from the start, pick the HIOKI FT6031-90.

If you only need simple two-pole measurement, the Kyoritsu Electrical Instruments 4300 is enough.

As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.