Best Oscilloscopes Under $500: Top Models for Budget-Friendly Performance [2025]

Oscilloscopes are essential tools for anyone working with electronics. They allow us to visualize electrical signals, making it easier to troubleshoot and analyze circuits. In this article we review our top 4 picks for oscilloscopes under $500

Siglent Technologies SDS1202X-E 200 mhz Digital Oscilloscope 2 Channels, Grey

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Summary of Top Picks

Best Oscilloscopes Under $500

We have gathered a list of the best oscilloscopes available for under $500. These tools provide excellent value for both beginners and experienced users, making it easier to analyze electrical signals. Check out our top picks to find the right oscilloscope for your needs.

Siglent SDS1202X-E

This oscilloscope is a strong option for those needing great performance at an affordable price.

Pros

  • High sampling rate allows for capturing fast signals.
  • Innovative triggering systems provide precise measurements.
  • Intuitive display features help in interpreting data easily.

Cons

  • Limited to two channels, which may not suit all users.
  • Some options may be complex for beginners.
  • Noise levels, while low, may still be noticeable in certain applications.

The Siglent SDS1202X-E is designed for users who want high-quality performance without breaking the bank. It features a bandwidth of 200 MHz and a sampling rate of up to 1 GSa/s, making it suitable for various applications. Its unique triggering system enhances accuracy, allowing us to capture detailed signals.

In addition to its solid performance, the display is equipped with advanced features like intensity grading and color temperature display modes. These innovations help us visualize signals better and make analysis more straightforward. Also, the history waveform recording allows us to look back at previous signals for better insights.

While it’s primarily a two-channel scope, it offers many powerful tools for signal analysis, including standard serial bus triggering and decoding functions. This might be a slight limitation for those who need more channels, but the capabilities provided are still impressive for everyday use. Overall, the Siglent SDS1202X-E stands out in its price range, balancing robustness with user-friendly features.

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Rigol DS1054Z Digital Oscilloscope

This oscilloscope offers great features and value for those looking to step up their testing game.

Pros

  • Affordable for a 50 MHz scope with four channels.
  • Excellent memory depth for capturing detailed signals.
  • Comes with free software for added functionality.

Cons

  • Screen fonts may be small for some users.
  • Setup might take time for beginners.
  • Lacks some advanced features found in higher-end models.

The Rigol DS1054Z is a popular choice for those needing a reliable oscilloscope under $500. It features 50 MHz bandwidth and four channels, making it versatile for various projects. We appreciate the 24 Mpts memory, which helps capture multiple signals without losing detail.

Setting up the oscilloscope is straightforward, although newcomers might need a little time to get familiar with everything. The included software bundle enhances its functionality, allowing for easier analysis of different signals.

One aspect we find important to note is the screen clarity. While it provides a bright display, some users mention that the font size can be challenging to read. Despite this, many agree that the performance and build quality justify the purchase.

Overall, the Rigol DS1054Z is a great option for hobbyists and professionals who want an effective oscilloscope without spending a fortune.

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Hantek DSO5102P Digital Oscilloscope

This oscilloscope is a solid choice for those seeking functionality at an affordable price.

Pros

  • Offers a decent 100MHz bandwidth for various applications.
  • User-friendly interface with a large, 7-inch color display.
  • Supports USB connectivity for easy data transfer and updates.

Cons

  • Some may find the plastic build feels less sturdy.
  • Limited memory depth compared to higher-end models.
  • It may lack advanced features for professional use.

This model stands out due to its 100 MHz bandwidth, which allows it to handle many common tasks effectively. The large color display makes it easier to read waveforms, providing a clear view of measurements.

We appreciate the USB host and device connectivity that lets us save waveforms and update the oscilloscope easily. Automatic measurement functions simplify our work. This oscilloscope can perform 32 different types of automatic measurements, which is great for accuracy.

While the design is simple and portable, some users might notice that the plastic casing feels a bit cheap. Nevertheless, it performs well for hobbyists and students looking for a reliable tool for electronics testing and learning.

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HANMATEK DOS1104 Oscilloscope

This oscilloscope offers great features at an affordable price, making it a solid choice for hobbyists and professionals alike.

Pros

  • Good bandwidth and sampling rate for various applications.
  • Portable with a user-friendly interface.
  • Multiple measurement functions for added flexibility.

Cons

  • Some users found the manual lacking detail.
  • The screen could be brighter for outdoor use.
  • May not compete with higher-end models.

The HANMATEK DOS1104 is a digital oscilloscope with a 110 MHz bandwidth and a real-time sampling rate of 1 GS/s. It includes four channels, allowing us to analyze multiple signals simultaneously. This versatility makes it suitable for different types of electrical work.

One feature we appreciate is the 7-inch TFT LCD display. It supports true color and has a good resolution, which helps in reading waveforms clearly. The cursor measurement options enhance our ability to analyze different parameters effectively.

While the oscilloscope has many great functions, the instruction manual could be clearer. Some users have reported challenges with understanding specific features. Additionally, although it is portable, the screen brightness might require adjustments when used in bright environments.

Overall, the HANMATEK DOS1104 delivers performance and features that many users find beneficial for their needs.

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Buying Guide

Choosing an oscilloscope under $500 can be challenging. We need to consider several key features to find the right one for our needs.

Key Features to Look For:

  • Bandwidth: This tells us the frequency range the oscilloscope can measure. A higher bandwidth allows for more accurate signals.

  • Sample Rate: A higher sample rate means the device can capture more data points. This leads to better waveform quality.

  • Channels: More channels allow us to view multiple signals at the same time. We should think about how many channels we need.

  • Display: A clear and large screen helps us read the measurements easily. Look for resolutions that fit our usage.

  • User Interface: A straightforward interface makes it easier for us to operate the oscilloscope. Consider how easy it is to navigate.

Budget Considerations:

FeatureImportance
BandwidthHigh
Sample RateHigh
ChannelsMedium
DisplayMedium
User InterfaceHigh

When selecting an oscilloscope, we should balance price with features. It’s essential to find something that meets our specific needs without exceeding our budget. Consider whether we prioritize higher bandwidth or more channels, as this will influence our choice.

Summary of Top Picks