Hey there, tech enthusiasts and gadget gurus! Welcome back to our blog, where we’re always on the hunt for the coolest and most useful tech goodies to spice up your digital life. Today, we’re diving into the exciting world of USB oscilloscopes, and boy, do we have some electrifying updates for you in 2023!
If you’re wondering what USB oscilloscopes are or why you might need one, fear not! We’ve got you covered. Whether you’re a seasoned electronics wizard or just a curious DIYer, these nifty devices can be your trusty sidekick in exploring the electronic realm. And guess what? We’ve sifted through the digital haystack to bring you the eight best USB oscilloscopes out there.
So, grab your soldering iron and your sense of adventure, because we’re about to embark on a journey through waveforms, frequencies, and all things oscilloscope-related. We promise you won’t need a degree in rocket science to understand this; we’re here to break it down into friendly, easily digestible bits.
Buckle up, because by the time you finish reading this updated review, you’ll be equipped with all the knowledge you need to make an informed decision and take your electronics game to the next level. Let’s dive right in and discover the latest and greatest USB oscilloscopes of 2023!
8 Best USB Oscilloscopes
1. The Hantek 1008C+ 8CH Automotive Diagnostic PC Oscilloscope
- Versatile and powerful tool for automotive diagnostics
- High-performance testing capabilities
- Comes with a program generator for signal simulation
- Easy to use software
The Hantek 1008C+ 8CH Automotive Diagnostic PC Oscilloscope is a versatile and powerful tool for automotive diagnostics. With 8 channels and a bandwidth of 2.4MSa/s, it offers high-performance testing capabilities that are essential for diagnosing and troubleshooting complex electrical systems in modern vehicles. Additionally, the device comes with a program generator that enables the user to simulate signals for testing purposes.
Where it Can be Used
The Hantek 1008C+ 8CH Automotive Diagnostic PC Oscilloscope is ideal for use in a variety of automotive diagnostic applications, including:
- Engine diagnostics
- Ignition system testing
- Fuel system analysis
- ABS and airbag diagnostics
- Electronic control module (ECM) testing
Specifications
- Brand: Hantek
- Power Source: Corded Electric
- Item Dimensions LxWxH: 0.89 x 0.76 x 0.17 inches
- Operating System: Windows 7
- Screen Size: 27.6 Centimeters
- Bandwidth: 2.4MSa/s
- Channels: 8
- Program Generator: Yes
Pros
- Versatile and powerful tool for automotive diagnostics
- High-performance testing capabilities
- Comes with a program generator for signal simulation
- Easy to use software
- Supports compliance with Windows 10
Cons
- May require some technical expertise to use effectively
- Limited operating system compatibility (only supports Windows 7)
Why You Should Buy
If you are a professional automotive technician or a DIY mechanic who wants to diagnose and troubleshoot complex electrical systems in modern vehicles, the Hantek 1008C+ 8CH Automotive Diagnostic PC Oscilloscope is an excellent investment. With its high-performance testing capabilities, program generator, and user-friendly software, this tool will help you quickly and accurately diagnose and repair any electrical issues in your vehicle. Plus, its compliance with Windows 10 makes it a future-proof tool that you can rely on for years to come.
2. The PicoScope 2204A
- High-performance oscilloscope at an affordable price
- Compact design
- Easy to use software
- Can be used for a wide range of applications
The PicoScope 2204A is a high-performance USB oscilloscope designed for use in a wide range of applications. With 2 channels and a 10 MHz bandwidth, this oscilloscope is perfect for use in electronics testing, research and development, and education. The device features a sleek, compact design that makes it ideal for use in small workspaces.
Where it Can be Used
The PicoScope 2204A can be used in various fields such as:
- Electronics testing and troubleshooting
- Research and development
- Education and training
- Industrial automation and control
- Automotive and aerospace testing
Specifications
- 2 channels
- 10 MHz bandwidth
- 1 GS/s sampling rate
- Advanced digital triggers
- Arbitrary waveform generator
Pros
- High-performance oscilloscope at an affordable price
- Compact design
- Easy to use software
- Can be used for a wide range of applications
- Two channels with digital triggers and an arbitrary waveform generator
Cons
- Limited bandwidth compared to higher-end models
- The software can be slow at times
Why You Should Buy
The PicoScope 2204A is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a high-performance USB oscilloscope at an affordable price. The device is versatile and can be used for a wide range of applications. With its advanced digital triggers and arbitrary waveform generator, it provides accurate and reliable results. The compact design makes it easy to carry around, and the easy-to-use software allows for hassle-free operation. Despite its limitations, this oscilloscope is a great investment for anyone in need of a reliable and affordable testing tool.
3. The Hantek 6022BE Digital Oscilloscope
- Portable and compact design
- Real-time sampling rate of 250MS/s
- High bandwidth of 20MHz-80MHz
- Suitable for technical applications and product line maintenance
The Hantek 6022BE Digital Oscilloscope is a portable PC-based instrument that offers 2 channels and a 20MHz bandwidth. This USB oscilloscope is a great tool for those who need a compact and reliable way to measure and monitor electronic signals. It comes with a USBXITM interface that easily inserts into a USBXITM housing to make up a combination instrument. With its high-performance real-time sampling rate of 250MS/s, it is suitable for both technical applications and product line maintenance.
Where it Can be Used
The Hantek 6022BE Digital Oscilloscope is ideal for use in a variety of settings, including:
- Educational Institutions
- Laboratories
- Technical Applications
- Product Line Maintenance
- Research and Development
Specification
- Bandwidth: 20MHz-80MHz
- Sampling Rate: 250MS/s
- Channels: 2
- Interface: USBXITM
- Real-time Sampling: Yes
- Number of Measurement Functions: 23
- PASS/FAIL Check: Yes
Pros
- Portable and compact design
- Real-time sampling rate of 250MS/s
- High bandwidth of 20MHz-80MHz
- Suitable for technical applications and product line maintenance
- 23 measurement functions
- PASS/FAIL Check
Cons
- Some users have reported compatibility issues with certain operating systems
Why You Should Buy
If you are looking for a portable and compact oscilloscope that can easily be used on the go, the Hantek 6022BE Digital Oscilloscope is a great option. Its high-performance sampling rate and bandwidth make it suitable for both technical applications and product line maintenance. Additionally, it comes with 23 measurement functions and a PASS/FAIL check feature that can help save time and increase efficiency. Overall, this USB oscilloscope is a reliable and versatile tool that is worth considering for anyone in need of a compact and efficient measuring device.
4. The Tablet Oscilloscope
- High accuracy and clear readings
- Versatile and can be used in various applications
- Efficient one-button automatic device
- Built-in storage space can store up to 1000 screenshots 1000 sets of waveform data
- USB interface for sharing screenshots with a computer
The Tablet Oscilloscope is a digital touch screen storage oscilloscope kit that provides an excellent solution for measuring and analyzing electronic signals. With its 2 channel 100Mhz bandwidth and 7-inch color display, this oscilloscope offers accurate and clear readings. The product is versatile, and it can be used in a wide range of applications, from education and research to automotive and industrial testing.
Where it Can be Used
This digital oscilloscope is perfect for use in the following areas:
- Education: Students can use it to learn about electronic signals and measurements.
- Automotive: Mechanics can use it to diagnose problems in automotive electronic systems.
- Industrial: Engineers can use it to test and analyze electronic components and systems.
- Research: Scientists can use it to analyze and measure signals in various fields, including physics, chemistry, and biology.
Specifications
- 2-channel 100Mhz bandwidth
- 7-inch TFT LCD color display with a resolution of 800 * 480
- Capacitive touch panel
- Built-in 6000mAh high-performance lithium battery
- 1X can measure 0-40V, 10X can measure 0-400V, 100X can measure 0-4000V
- Up to 12 parameter measurements
- USB interface for connecting to a computer
- Memory compression technology
- Powerful waveform picture manager
- FFT display function
Pros
- High accuracy and clear readings
- Versatile and can be used in various applications
- Efficient one-button automatic device
- Built-in storage space can store up to 1000 screenshots 1000 sets of waveform data
- USB interface for sharing screenshots with a computer
- Intelligent anti-burn feature
- Equipped with memory compression technology and waveform picture manager
- FFT display function for analyzing spectral characteristics of the signal
Cons
- The manual could be more detailed
Why You Should Buy
The Tablet Oscilloscope is an excellent product that provides accurate readings and efficient analysis of electronic signals. It is versatile and can be used in various applications, making it a valuable tool for students, mechanics, engineers, and scientists. The product’s efficient one-button automatic device, built-in storage space, USB interface, and intelligent anti-burn feature make it easy to use and reliable. Additionally, the product’s memory compression technology, powerful waveform picture manager, and FFT display function make it a comprehensive solution for analyzing electronic signals. Overall, the Tablet Oscilloscope is a great investment for anyone who needs to measure and analyze electronic signals accurately and efficiently.
5. The Hantek HT6022BE20Mhz Digital Oscilloscope
- USB interface for easy connectivity to your computer
- 2 channels for versatile signal analysis
- Lightweight and portable design
- Compatible with a wide range of Windows operating systems
The Hantek HT6022BE20Mhz Digital Oscilloscope is a compact and affordable solution for engineers, technicians, and hobbyists who require basic oscilloscope functionality. This USB-based oscilloscope offers a maximum bandwidth of 20 MHz and two channels to allow you to measure and analyze electronic signals with ease. It also comes with software that enables you to display and store waveforms on your computer for later analysis.
Where it can be used
This oscilloscope is an excellent tool for testing and troubleshooting electronics in a wide range of applications, including:
- Electronic circuit design
- Automotive diagnostics
- Industrial control systems
- Power electronics
- Telecommunications
Specifications
- 20 MHz bandwidth
- Two channels
- USB 2.0 interface
- 48 MS/s real-time sampling rate
- 1M memory depth
- Software supports Windows 10, Windows 8, Windows 7/NT/XP/Vista
Pros
- Affordable price point
- USB interface for easy connectivity to your computer
- 2 channels for versatile signal analysis
- Lightweight and portable design
- Compatible with a wide range of Windows operating systems
Cons
- No built-in display
- Requires a computer to operate
Why you should buy
If you’re looking for a basic oscilloscope that won’t break the bank, the Hantek HT6022BE20Mhz Digital Oscilloscope is an excellent choice. Its compact size and USB interface make it easy to use and transport, and its two-channel design allows you to analyze multiple signals simultaneously. The software that comes with the oscilloscope is intuitive and easy to use, and it supports a wide range of Windows operating systems. However, if you require a higher bandwidth or a built-in display, you may want to consider a more advanced model.
6. The Velleman PCSU1000 Two-Channel USB Pc Oscilloscope
- Two-channel operation
- High resolution and accuracy
- Easy to use software interface
- Compact and portable design
- Offers a lot of functionality at an affordable price
If you are an electrical engineer or hobbyist who needs a reliable oscilloscope for their projects, the Velleman PCSU1000 Two-Channel USB Pc Oscilloscope is a great choice. It offers a lot of features and functionality that can be useful for both professionals and beginners.
Where it Can be Used
This oscilloscope is perfect for use in laboratories, classrooms, or for personal projects. It is especially useful for analyzing signals in electronic circuits, audio equipment, and computer peripherals.
Specifications
- Timebase: 20ns to 100ms per division
- Trigger source: CH1 CH2 EXT or free run
- Trigger edge: rising or falling
- Trigger level: full-screen adjustable
- Step interpolation: linear or smoothed
- Markers for: voltage and frequency
- Input range: 5mV to 2V/division
Pros
- Two-channel operation
- High resolution and accuracy
- Easy to use software interface
- Compact and portable design
- Offers a lot of functionality at an affordable price
Cons
- Limited input voltage range
Why You Should Buy
The Velleman PCSU1000 Two-Channel USB Pc Oscilloscope is an excellent choice for those who are looking for a reliable and affordable oscilloscope. Its two-channel operation, high resolution and accuracy, and easy-to-use software interface make it an ideal tool for a wide range of projects. Despite its limitations in frequency response and input voltage range, it still offers a lot of functionality at an affordable price.
7. The PICO TECHNOLOGY PICOSCOPE 2406B USB Oscilloscope
- Highly versatile and efficient oscilloscope
- Comes with four analog channels
- 50 MHz bandwidth for high-speed applications
- 1 GSPS sampling rate for accurate signal capture
- Easy to use software interface
- Portable design for ease of use
The PICO TECHNOLOGY PICOSCOPE 2406B USB Oscilloscope is a highly versatile and efficient oscilloscope that is widely used in electronics and electrical engineering applications. This digital triggering oscilloscope is part of the PicoScope 2200B series and comes with four analog channels, 50 MHz bandwidth, 1 GSPS sampling rate, and 32 Mpts buffer memory. In this review, we will explore the product in detail, including its features, pros, and cons.
Where it can be used
The PICO TECHNOLOGY PICOSCOPE 2406B USB Oscilloscope is designed for use in various electronic and electrical engineering applications. It is ideal for use in troubleshooting circuits, analyzing signals, and testing electronic devices. Additionally, it can be used in research and development projects, as well as in educational settings such as universities and technical schools.
Specification
- Analog Channels: 4
- Bandwidth: 50 MHz
- Sampling rate: 1 GSPS
- Buffer memory: 32 Mpts
- Resolution: 8 bits
- Input range: ±50 mV to ±100 V
- Input coupling: AC/DC/GND
- Trigger types: Edge, pulse width, video, and pattern
Pros
- Highly versatile and efficient oscilloscope
- Comes with four analog channels
- 50 MHz bandwidth for high-speed applications
- 1 GSPS sampling rate for accurate signal capture
- 32 Mpts buffer memory for long capture times
- Multiple trigger types for flexibility in signal analysis
- Easy to use software interface
- Portable design for ease of use
Cons
- Price is on the higher side, which may not be suitable for budget-conscious buyers
- The software can be slightly complex for beginners
Why You Should Buy
If you are looking for a highly versatile and efficient oscilloscope for your electronic and electrical engineering applications, then the PICO TECHNOLOGY PICOSCOPE 2406B USB Oscilloscope is an excellent option. It comes with four analog channels, a 50 MHz bandwidth, 1 GSPS sampling rate, and 32 Mpts buffer memory. Additionally, it offers multiple trigger types for flexibility in signal analysis and has an easy-to-use software interface. While the price may be on the higher side, it is worth the investment if you need a reliable oscilloscope for your projects.
8. The Digilent Analog Discovery
- Offers a range of functions and features, including an oscilloscope, function generator, logic analyzer, and power supply
- Compatible with a variety of software tools, including WaveForms and MATLAB
- Provides high-quality measurements and analysis
The Digilent Analog Discovery 2 is a powerful and versatile USB oscilloscope, logic analyzer, and variable power supply designed for engineers, students, and hobbyists. This compact and portable device offers a range of features and functions that make it ideal for a wide range of applications.
Where it Can be Used
The Analog Discovery 2 can be used in a variety of settings, including:
- Electronics labs
- Research and development facilities
- Engineering classrooms and teaching labs
- Home hobbyist workshops
Specification
The Analog Discovery 2 offers the following specifications:
- Two-channel USB digital oscilloscope with 100MS/s sampling rate and 30MHz bandwidth
- Two-channel arbitrary function generator with 25MS/s waveform generation
- Stereo audio amplifier to drive external headphones or speakers with replicated AWG signals
- 16-channel digital logic analyzer with up to 100MS/s sampling rate
- 16-channel pattern generator with up to 100MS/s waveform generation
- Variable power supply with up to 5V and 2.5A output
Pros
- Compact and portable design makes it easy to use on the go
- Offers a range of functions and features, including an oscilloscope, function generator, logic analyzer, and power supply
- Compatible with a variety of software tools, including WaveForms and MATLAB
- Provides high-quality measurements and analysis
- Suitable for a wide range of applications, including electronics design, testing, and troubleshooting
Cons
- The device may not be suitable for advanced or specialized applications that require more specialized equipment or features
Why You Should Buy
The Digilent Analog Discovery 2 USB Oscilloscope, Logic Analyzer and Variable Power Supply is a versatile and powerful tool that offers a range of features and functions that make it ideal for a wide range of applications. Whether you are an engineer, student, or hobbyist, the Analog Discovery 2 can help you design, test, and troubleshoot your electronic projects with ease. Its compact and portable design makes it easy to use on the go, and its compatibility with a range of software tools and platforms ensures that it can be integrated into your existing workflow. Overall, the Analog Discovery 2 is a valuable addition to any electronics toolkit, and is highly recommended for anyone looking for a versatile and reliable USB oscilloscope, logic analyzer, and power supply.
Your USB Oscilloscope Buying Guide
Alright, fellow tech explorers, before we dive into the USB oscilloscope wonderland, let’s make sure you’re armed with the knowledge you need to pick the perfect one for your needs. Think of it as choosing the ideal tool for your electronic adventures – like selecting the right wand for a wizard or the perfect fishing rod for a pro angler.
1. Know Your Needs
First things first, what are you planning to use your USB oscilloscope for? Are you a hobbyist who loves tinkering with electronics on the weekends, a student looking to ace your electronics projects, or a professional who needs precise measurements? Understanding your needs will help you narrow down your options.
2. Bandwidth Matters
Imagine your USB oscilloscope as a radio tuned to different stations. Bandwidth determines how many channels it can listen to at once. For simple tasks, like audio or low-frequency signals, a lower bandwidth oscilloscope will do. But if you’re dealing with high-frequency signals, like radio waves, you’ll want a higher bandwidth scope.
3. Sample Rate Sensibility
Sample rate is like the number of snapshots your oscilloscope takes per second. Higher sample rates can capture fast-moving signals with more detail, while slower ones might miss important information. Think of it as the difference between a flipbook and a high-speed camera.
4. Channels and Connectivity
How many channels do you need? Channels are like the number of eyes your oscilloscope has – more channels mean you can monitor multiple signals simultaneously. And don’t forget about connectivity – USB 2.0 or 3.0? Make sure it plays nice with your setup.
5. Software Support
The software that comes with your USB oscilloscope can make or break the deal. Check if it’s user-friendly, compatible with your operating system, and if it offers the features you need. You don’t want to end up wrestling with clunky software when you should be having fun.
6. Portability and Size
Are you planning to take your oscilloscope on the go, or will it be a permanent fixture on your workbench? Consider its size and weight. A compact, portable model might be a better fit if you’re a globetrotting electronics enthusiast.
7. Budgeting Wisely
Ah, the golden rule of shopping – sticking to your budget. USB oscilloscopes come in a wide range of prices, so set your budget before you start shopping. Remember, a higher price doesn’t always mean better quality, so do your research.
8. Warranty and Customer Support
Nobody wants to be left in the dark if their oscilloscope has a hiccup. Check the warranty and the company’s customer support reputation. A good warranty can save you headaches down the road.
9. Future-Proofing
Finally, consider how your needs might evolve in the future. Buying a USB oscilloscope with a little extra horsepower now could save you from needing an upgrade later.
With these tips in your toolbox, you’re ready to navigate the USB oscilloscope market like a pro. Remember, it’s not just about the oscilloscope; it’s about the exciting electronic journeys it’ll take you on. Happy hunting, and may your waveforms always be wavy and your circuits ever connected!
Conclusion
USB oscilloscopes are an essential tool for anyone working in electronics. They offer a range of features and benefits that make them indispensable for hobbyists and professionals alike. When choosing a USB oscilloscope, consider your needs in terms of bandwidth, sample rate, channels, software, and price. With so many great options on the market, you’re sure to find an oscilloscope that meets your needs and fits your budget.