Best Oscilloscope for Hobbyists: Top Picks for Performance [2025] - OneSDR

Oscilloscopes are essential tools for anyone working with electronics. They allow users to visualize electrical signals, which helps in troubleshooting and designing circuits. As technology advances, oscilloscopes have become more accessible, making them a popular choice for hobbyists and DIY enthusiasts.

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We carefully reviewed various options to recommend the best oscilloscopes that cater to the needs of hobbyists.

Summary of Top Picks

Table of Contents

Best Oscilloscopes for Hobbyists

We have gathered a list of the best oscilloscopes suitable for hobbyists. These products offer a great balance of features, performance, and affordability for anyone looking to explore electronics and circuit testing.

Rigol DS1054Z Oscilloscope

This oscilloscope is a solid choice for hobbyists who want great features without a hefty price tag.

Pros

Excellent value for its capabilities.
Four channels allow for versatile signal analysis.
Bright display makes it easy to read data.

Cons

The font size on the screen may be small for some users.
Initial setup can take a little time.
Some features may seem complex for complete beginners.

We have recently used the Rigol DS1054Z, and it’s hard not to appreciate what it brings to the table. Right away, the four channels come in handy when we are analyzing multiple signals. The clarity of the display makes it easy to view waveforms, and it feels reliable in various scenarios, from simple tasks to more complex challenges.

Another point worth mentioning is the extensive memory and fast sampling rate. Having access to 24 Mpts memory allows us to capture longer signals without losing detail. The features for decoding serial signals like I2C and SPI were a big plus for us, especially when working on microcontroller projects.

While there were a few minor downsides, such as the small font size on the screen, these did not detract from the overall experience. Setting it up takes a little getting used to, but it’s manageable with a bit of patience. In the end, the Rigol DS1054Z is a great investment for hobbyists wanting a high-quality oscilloscope.

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FNIRSI 2C53T Handheld Oscilloscope

This product offers solid features for hobbyists at a friendly price.

Pros

Compact and lightweight design makes it easy to handle.
A variety of functions including a multimeter and signal generator.
Good measurement accuracy and nice display quality.

Cons

Limited trigger adjustment might be a drawback for some users.
Battery life could be better for extended use.
Some users may find the interface a bit tricky at first.

Using the FNIRSI 2C53T was a great experience. This handheld oscilloscope combines several tools in one, making it versatile. The 50 MHz bandwidth and impressive sampling rate of 250 MSa/s really helped us capture detailed waveforms effectively.

The compact size is a significant advantage when working on different projects. We easily held it in one hand, allowing us to maneuver while taking readings. The built-in multimeter adds extra functionality, letting us test voltage, current, and other electrical components conveniently. The display is clear, which is essential when analyzing signals.

While the features are excellent, we found some aspects could use improvement. The trigger level adjustment isn’t very intuitive, which might frustrate beginners. We also noticed that the battery could drain faster than expected during extended sessions. Despite these minor issues, the FNIRSI 2C53T stands out as a valuable tool for hobbyists who want quality performance without breaking the bank.

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FNIRSI DSO152 Oscilloscope

This oscilloscope is a solid choice for hobbyists looking for a portable and budget-friendly option.

Pros

Compact and easy to carry.
Good sampling speed and bandwidth for general use.
Features a clear display that is easy to read.

Cons

Limited to single-channel measurements.
Some users might find the controls a bit tricky at first.
Battery life could be better for longer sessions.

We recently tested the FNIRSI DSO152 and were impressed with its portability. We liked how easy it was to carry around. The size is perfect for fitting into most bags, making it a good option for those on the go.

The 2.5 MS/s real-time sampling rate and 200 KHz bandwidth work well for a range of hobbyist applications. We found that it handled both analog and digital signals effectively. The display is bright and clear, making it easy to see waveforms with just a glance.

While it has its strengths, some might struggle with the single-channel limitation if they’re used to more advanced models. The controls took a little time to get used to, especially for those new to oscilloscopes. It also has a decent battery life, but longer work sessions might drain it quicker than expected.

In conclusion, for hobbyists who want a reliable and portable oscilloscope, the FNIRSI DSO152 is worth considering.

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Siglent SDS1202X-E Oscilloscope

This oscilloscope offers great features and performance for hobbyists and is worth considering for our projects.

Pros

Excellent signal quality and accuracy.
Wide range of triggering options for various signals.
Fast waveform capture rate for detailed analysis.

Cons

Slightly heavier than some competitors.
May have a learning curve for new users.
The display could be brighter in well-lit conditions.

We found the Siglent SDS1202X-E to be a powerful tool for hobbyists. Its 200 MHz bandwidth and 1 GSa/s sampling rate let us handle a variety of signals easily. The signal fidelity impresses, making it great for troubleshooting and experiments alike.

Using it, we enjoyed the different triggering modes, including support for serial protocols like IIC and SPI. This feature really helps when working with projects that involve multiple components. The waveform capture rate of 400,000 frames per second allows us to see rapid signal changes, which is a huge plus for our testing needs.

On the downside, the oscilloscope is a bit heavier than other models we’ve tried. This can make it less portable if we want to take it to different workspaces. Additionally, some of us felt that the learning curve might be steep for newcomers. The user interface is not overly complicated, but familiarity takes time.

Overall, the Siglent SDS1202X-E stands out as a solid choice for hobbyists looking to invest in quality equipment.

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FNIRSI 1013D Plus Oscilloscope

This oscilloscope is a solid choice for hobbyists looking for portability and ease of use.

Pros

Lightweight and portable design makes it easy to carry around.
Clear display with touch screen for user-friendly navigation.
Built-in battery allows for up to 4 hours of use without needing to plug in.

Cons

Not as powerful as high-end models for professional use.
Some users reported occasional freezing or issues with power.
Limited advanced features compared to top-tier scopes.

We found the FNIRSI 1013D Plus oscilloscope to be quite impressive for its price. The 7-inch screen is bright and vivid, allowing us to see signals clearly even in various lighting conditions. The touch functionality makes it simple to operate, which is perfect for those just starting out.

When it comes to performance, this scope offers a sampling rate of 1 GSa/s and bandwidth of 100 MHz, so it handles most basic tasks quite well. We especially liked the built-in high-voltage protection, which adds reassurance when working with different signals.

Although it’s not designed for heavy professional use, it fulfills our hobbyist needs. The compact design fits well in small spaces, and we appreciated the battery feature, making it easier to work in locations without power outlets. Users should keep in mind that while it’s reliable, it might not satisfy those needing advanced capabilities.

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Buying Guide

When we choose an oscilloscope for hobbyist projects, we consider several key features. These can greatly affect our experience and results.

Key Features to Look For

Feature	Importance
Bandwidth	Determines the frequency of the signals we can measure. More bandwidth means better performance.
Sample Rate	Higher rates give us more accurate signals. Look for a sample rate at least 1 GSa/s for most hobby projects.
Channels	More channels allow us to view multiple signals at once. Two or four channels are common for hobbyists.
Display Type	A clear display helps in reading waveforms easily. Consider options with larger screens for better visibility.
Memory Depth	Greater memory depth allows us to capture longer signals. Look for at least 10 kpts for typical applications.

Additional Considerations

Portability: If we need to move our oscilloscope often, a lightweight design is ideal.
User Interface: A simple interface helps us find settings quickly.
Software Compatibility: Check if the oscilloscope has software that helps analyze data on a computer.

When looking for an oscilloscope, it’s important to consider several factors. Key features to look for include bandwidth, sample rate, and the number of channels. These specifications determine how accurately an oscilloscope can capture and display signals. Additionally, user-friendly interfaces and portability can greatly impact the experience for hobbyists who might not have advanced technical skills.