Hey guys! Looking for an oscilloscope that won't break the bank? You're in the right place. Let's dive into the best cheap oscilloscopes you can snag for under $100 in 2022. We'll cover what to look for and some top picks, so you can make an informed decision without emptying your wallet.

Why Get an Oscilloscope?

First, let's quickly cover why you might want an oscilloscope in the first place. An oscilloscope is an essential tool for anyone working with electronics, whether you're a hobbyist, student, or professional. It allows you to visualize electrical signals, which is super helpful for troubleshooting circuits, analyzing waveforms, and understanding how different components interact. Without one, you're basically flying blind! They are incredibly useful for debugging electronic circuits and understanding signal behavior.

Now, you might think that oscilloscopes are expensive, high-end equipment only accessible to well-funded labs. While it's true that professional-grade oscilloscopes can cost thousands of dollars, there's a growing market for affordable, entry-level options that are perfect for beginners and hobbyists. You can get a decent oscilloscope for under $100, which is a game-changer for many people. These budget-friendly oscilloscopes might not have all the bells and whistles of their pricier counterparts, but they can still provide valuable insights into your electronic projects. Think of it as an investment in your learning and a gateway to more advanced projects. Oscilloscopes display voltage signals over time, providing a visual representation of electrical activity in a circuit. This is crucial for diagnosing problems, analyzing signal characteristics like frequency and amplitude, and understanding how different components interact within a system. For instance, you can use an oscilloscope to check the output of a sensor, examine the shape of a PWM signal, or identify noise and interference in a circuit. In addition to troubleshooting, oscilloscopes are also valuable for design and experimentation. They allow you to visualize the effects of circuit modifications in real-time, helping you fine-tune your designs and optimize performance. Whether you're building a simple LED flasher or a complex microcontroller-based system, an oscilloscope can provide invaluable feedback and insights. This feedback is especially important for those learning electronics, as it allows for a more intuitive understanding of how circuits behave.

What to Look For in a Budget Oscilloscope

Alright, so you're ready to buy a cheap oscilloscope. What features should you be paying attention to? Here’s the lowdown:

• Bandwidth: This is the most important spec. Bandwidth tells you the highest frequency signal the oscilloscope can accurately measure. For most hobby projects, a bandwidth of 20MHz is usually sufficient. Don't go too low, or you'll miss important details.
• Sample Rate: The sample rate determines how many samples per second the oscilloscope can capture. A higher sample rate gives you a more accurate representation of the signal. Aim for at least 100MSa/s (Mega Samples per second).
• Channels: Most oscilloscopes have either one or two channels. Two channels let you compare two signals simultaneously, which is super useful for debugging circuits. If you can swing it, go for a dual-channel scope.
• Display: A clear, easy-to-read display is essential. Look for a decent screen size and resolution. Some cheaper oscilloscopes have tiny screens, which can be a pain to work with.
• Portability: If you plan to use your oscilloscope on the go, consider a portable model. These are often smaller and battery-powered.
• Ease of Use: A user-friendly interface is crucial, especially for beginners. Look for intuitive controls and clear menus.
• Features: Consider features like automatic measurements, FFT (Fast Fourier Transform) analysis, and waveform storage. These can be incredibly helpful for advanced analysis.

Let's break these points down further. Bandwidth is critical because it determines the range of signal frequencies your oscilloscope can accurately measure. Think of it like the frequency range your speakers can handle. If the bandwidth is too low, the oscilloscope won't be able to accurately display high-frequency signals, leading to distorted readings. For example, if you're working with a microcontroller that's generating a 10MHz clock signal, you'll need an oscilloscope with a bandwidth of at least 10MHz to see the signal accurately. However, it's generally recommended to have a bandwidth that's at least five times higher than the highest frequency signal you plan to measure. This ensures that the oscilloscope can capture the signal's harmonics and provide a more complete picture. So, for that 10MHz clock signal, an oscilloscope with a 50MHz bandwidth would be ideal. When it comes to sample rate, it's all about capturing enough data points to accurately reconstruct the signal. The higher the sample rate, the more detailed the waveform will be. As a general rule, you want a sample rate that's at least two to five times higher than the highest frequency signal you plan to measure. This is known as the Nyquist-Shannon sampling theorem, which states that you need to sample a signal at least twice its highest frequency to avoid aliasing. Aliasing occurs when the sample rate is too low, and the oscilloscope misinterprets the signal, leading to inaccurate readings. For instance, if you're measuring a 1MHz signal, you'll want a sample rate of at least 2MSa/s to avoid aliasing. A higher sample rate will provide a more accurate representation of the signal, especially for complex waveforms with fast transitions. The number of channels an oscilloscope has determines how many signals you can simultaneously measure and compare. A single-channel oscilloscope can only display one signal at a time, while a dual-channel oscilloscope can display two signals simultaneously. This is particularly useful for comparing input and output signals, analyzing timing relationships, and troubleshooting circuit interactions. For example, if you're debugging an amplifier circuit, you can use a dual-channel oscilloscope to simultaneously monitor the input and output signals. This allows you to quickly identify any distortions, phase shifts, or other anomalies that may be affecting the amplifier's performance. Similarly, if you're working with a digital circuit, you can use a dual-channel oscilloscope to compare the clock signal with the data signal, ensuring that they are properly synchronized. Having two channels can significantly speed up your troubleshooting process and provide a more comprehensive understanding of your circuits.

Top Picks for Oscilloscopes Under $100 in 2022

Okay, let's get down to brass tacks. Here are a few oscilloscopes that offer great value for their price:

1. FNIRSI 138 Pro: A popular choice for beginners, the FNIRSI 138 Pro is a single-channel oscilloscope with a 2.5MHz bandwidth and a 10MSa/s sample rate. It's super compact and easy to use, making it perfect for simple projects. Plus, it's often available for around $50.
2. DSO138: Another budget-friendly option, the DSO138 is a DIY kit that you assemble yourself. It has a 200kHz bandwidth and a 1MSa/s sample rate. While it's not the most powerful oscilloscope, it's a great way to learn about how oscilloscopes work. You can usually find it for around $30.
3. JYE Tech DSO150: The JYE Tech DSO150 is an upgraded version of the DSO138, with a 200kHz bandwidth and a 1MSa/s sample rate. It comes pre-assembled, so you don't have to worry about soldering. It also has a larger display and a more user-friendly interface. Expect to pay around $40-$50.
4. YEAPOOK ADS1013D: For a bit more money, you can get the YEAPOOK ADS1013D. It's a dual-channel oscilloscope with a 100MHz bandwidth and a 1GSa/s sample rate. This is a significant step up in performance compared to the other options on this list. If you can stretch your budget a bit, this is a great choice.

Let's dig a little deeper into these recommendations. The FNIRSI 138 Pro is a fantastic entry-level oscilloscope for those just starting. Its simplicity is its strength. The limited bandwidth is something to consider but often sufficient for basic signal tracing and educational purposes. The FNIRSI 138 Pro is also very compact, making it easy to transport and use in tight spaces. This is a significant advantage for hobbyists who work on projects in different locations or have limited workspace. The DSO138 has been a mainstay recommendation for a long time. It's cheap, educational due to its DIY nature and gives an entry-level glimpse into the oscilloscope world. Assembling the kit yourself can be a rewarding experience, as it teaches you about the different components that make up an oscilloscope and how they work together. However, the DSO138's limited bandwidth and sample rate mean that it's not suitable for measuring high-frequency signals or complex waveforms. It's best suited for basic signal tracing and educational purposes. The JYE Tech DSO150 offers a pre-assembled option with some improvements over the DSO138. The pre-assembled nature saves time and effort, especially for those who are not comfortable with soldering. The larger display and more user-friendly interface also make it easier to use than the DSO138. However, like the DSO138, the DSO150's limited bandwidth and sample rate mean that it's not suitable for measuring high-frequency signals or complex waveforms. Finally, the YEAPOOK ADS1013D represents a substantial upgrade for those willing to spend a bit more. The 100MHz bandwidth and 1GSa/s sample rate allow you to measure a much wider range of signals with greater accuracy. The dual-channel capability also makes it easier to compare two signals simultaneously. The ADS1013D is a great choice for hobbyists and students who are looking for a versatile and capable oscilloscope that won't break the bank. It's suitable for a wide range of applications, including circuit design, troubleshooting, and signal analysis. If you can afford it, it's definitely worth the investment. When considering these oscilloscopes, it's important to remember that you're getting what you pay for. These budget-friendly options won't have all the features and performance of high-end oscilloscopes, but they can still be valuable tools for learning and experimentation. Choose the one that best suits your needs and budget, and be prepared to work within its limitations.

Tips for Using a Cheap Oscilloscope

Got your new oscilloscope? Awesome! Here are a few tips to get the most out of it:

• Read the Manual: Seriously, read the manual. It'll save you a lot of headaches.
• Start Simple: Begin with simple signals like sine waves or square waves to get a feel for how the oscilloscope works.
• Adjust the Settings: Play around with the voltage scale and time base to get a clear view of the signal.
• Use Probes Correctly: Make sure your probes are properly grounded to avoid noise and interference.
• Calibrate Regularly: Calibrate your oscilloscope regularly to ensure accurate measurements.
• Grounding is Key: Proper grounding is essential for accurate measurements and to prevent damage to your equipment. Always connect the ground clip of your probe to a known ground point in your circuit.

Let's elaborate on these tips. The first tip, reading the manual, might seem obvious, but it's often overlooked. The manual contains valuable information about the oscilloscope's features, specifications, and operating procedures. It can also help you troubleshoot common problems and avoid potential damage to the instrument. Take the time to read the manual thoroughly before using your oscilloscope for the first time. The second tip, starting simple, is particularly important for beginners. Begin by measuring simple signals like sine waves or square waves. These signals are easy to understand and visualize, allowing you to get a feel for how the oscilloscope works and how to adjust the settings. Once you're comfortable with these basic signals, you can gradually move on to more complex waveforms. The third tip, adjusting the settings, is crucial for getting a clear view of the signal. The voltage scale and time base controls allow you to adjust the vertical and horizontal axes of the display, respectively. By adjusting these settings, you can zoom in on specific parts of the waveform or expand the time scale to see the signal's overall behavior. Experiment with different settings to find the best view for your particular signal. The fourth tip, using probes correctly, is essential for accurate measurements. Oscilloscope probes are designed to connect to your circuit and transmit the signal to the oscilloscope. However, they can also introduce noise and interference if they're not used properly. Always make sure your probes are properly grounded to avoid these problems. Connect the ground clip of the probe to a known ground point in your circuit. The fifth tip, calibrating regularly, is important for ensuring accurate measurements. Oscilloscopes can drift over time, leading to inaccurate readings. Calibrating your oscilloscope regularly will ensure that it's performing within its specifications. Consult your oscilloscope's manual for instructions on how to calibrate it. Finally, grounding is absolutely vital! A poor ground connection can lead to inaccurate measurements, distorted waveforms, and even damage to your oscilloscope or the circuit you're testing. Always double-check your ground connections before taking any measurements. Make sure the ground clip of your probe is securely connected to a known ground point in your circuit. If possible, use a short, thick ground wire to minimize impedance. Avoid using long, thin ground wires, as they can act as antennas and pick up noise. By following these tips, you can get the most out of your cheap oscilloscope and avoid common pitfalls.

Conclusion

So there you have it! You don't need to spend a fortune to get a decent oscilloscope. These budget-friendly options are perfect for hobbyists, students, and anyone who wants to learn more about electronics. Just remember to do your research, choose the right oscilloscope for your needs, and follow the tips above to get the most out of it. Happy experimenting!