7 Best DC Electronics Loads (Variable 2024)

DC Electronics load (or DC Power Source Tester) is an instrument that measures the quality of DC power sources like batteries, fuel cells, battery chargers, etc.

It provides us with the environment that a battery will be facing practically. Adding to that, a programmable best DC electronics load gives us a free hand in testing our power sources according to our well.

Sometimes, the DC power source can be grumpy, and it behaves in the following odd manner:

Its ability changes from time to time.
Charging and discharging capacity reduces
Voltage level fluctuates with different loads
Power reduces

Meanwhile, electronic devices are sensitive to these changes. For example, Raspberry Pie and Arduino work on nominal voltages and currents. If voltage and current fluctuate due to battery performance, its circuits do not operate. And in many cases, damage to the circuitry is reported.

Hence, DC Electronics load helps us to test DC power sources and provides different help like:

Constant current driving
Constant resistance
Programmability
Free hand in value selection
High accuracy
Checking the charging and discharging ability of power sources

By this means, we can easily monitor and test the behavior of a power source for the smooth running of our devices.

Best DC Electronics Loads

No matter which DC Power source is on your desk, as long as you have the right load tester, testing these sources is not that hard.

Generally, we suggest either Siglent Technologies SDL1030X-E or Rigol DL3021. It is because of its reliability and accurate results. Moreover, these instruments are made by prestigious companies that are well-known in the field of instrumentation.

However, we have shortlisted the top 7 best DC electronics Loads in this blog which are durable and reliable. These instruments are as trusted as the above two because it passes the same criteria.

The criteria is based on a few factors. These factors are mentioned below with the necessary explanation.

Choosing the Best DC Electronics Load

Choosing among the good DC electronics loads is not an easy task. One has to monitor a bundle of factors while selecting. These factors are important and many in numbers while some are unimportant.

However, the following are some important factors that must be checked before buying a good DC electronics Load:

a. Ratings

The rating of a DC load is a measure of its performance, capacity, or capability. It is typically expressed in terms of some physical quantity such as power, current, and voltage.

1. Current Rating

The current rating shows us the sensing value of an Electronics Load. It is a measure of the maximum current that a DC load can safely carry without overheating or experiencing other types of damage. It is usually expressed in amperes (A).

The power sources range from low voltages (current of a few mili-Amps: especially in the field of Microelectronics) to high voltages (in Amps). The testing source must be within range.

For example, a power source of 5A needs an electronics load not less than 5A.

2. Voltage Rating

Voltage rating shows the trigger value and final value of voltage an instrument can read.

Generally, 24V is considered enough rating; but with the advancement of solar powered devices, electric cars, and motors, the voltage level of batteries increased. Hence, we can see 48V batteries in use and so on.

Moreover, the Battery chargers also followed the course.

3. Power Rating

Power rating is the measure of electric power an instrument can withstand or measure.

The power rating of a DC Electronics Load is dependent on the use.

For example, if you want to test a battery of voltage 12V and current 5A, then you must rely on 60W or more power of electronics load. In contrast, a low power rating of an electronics load can damage the load if tested for a high power source.

b. Compatibility with PC

As obvious, a programmable electronics load will always be compatible with a PC. This issue frequently occurs with users. They do not check the compatibility of electronic loads with their PC in the first place; hence, it does not work accordingly.

c. Augmented Functions

The number of added functions is obvious from the front side of the Electronic load. The following are common features:

Constant Current (CC)
Constant Voltage (CV)
Constant Resistance (CR)
Constant Power (CP)
Keypad for Manual input
Knob for varying a value
Storing, Stopping, and Recalling a value

d. Display

The duty of display in measuring devices is to show maximum information. Moreover, users should feel comfortable in the reading of information. It could be easily tested with a careful examination of the display.

e. Error

An error of an electronics load is mentioned separately with the ratings of Current, Voltage, and Power. Error explains the degree of correctness in the reading. It is frequently written in the terms of “Efficiency”.

For example with the error of ±0.01V and Voltage 5V shown on the screen, we can estimate that our value will be between 4.99V to 5.01V.

f. Handling

The physique of an instrument is equally important along with working. It makes the user comfortable in the work environment.

Besides the common horizontal shape, these instruments are also available in desktop models. Similarly, a pick-up handle, security casing, and different stands help users in their work.

List of Suggested Top DC Electronics Load

Up till now, you understood the basic idea of these loads. Now let’s list a few best dc electronics loads models.

The following suggested models have been tested and found useful by professionals in the field.

1. AideTek ITECH IT8511+

Our first selection here comes from AideTek, a well-known brand in the field of instrumentation. This device is widely known for its good results in the field.

Moreover, Its reliability and stability make it a good choice among our colleagues. It is task oriented, simple to use, and straightforward.

Distinguishing features:

It is available at a suitable voltage of 120V
Current ratings are up to 30A which is enough for our use
A power of 150W is enough for common applications
It is light in weight that is 10.88 pounds (~5kg)
Simple to use
It has a well-defined and LED based display (good for night mode)
It gives reading with high accuracy (Low error)
The stand is movable for comfortable use in the work environment

In a short summary, the AideTek ITECH IT8511 (Amazon link) is frequently recommended for car batteries and Li-ion batteries manufacturers. Its endurance in harsh conditions made it a good choice for technicians.

2. East Tester Electronic Load ET5411A

Our second suggestion is the ET5411A model, designed by The East Tester brand. It is added with smartness, simplicity in reading, well-defined results, and installed with extra safety.

It gives us more degree of freedom in the selection and toggling of different parameters.

Salient features of this best DC electronics load:

This model has a maximum voltage rating of up to 500V, which is more than enough
The maximum current rate is set up to the normal current level of Power sources which is 15A
The power of 400W is a good value among other models
It is a tower modeled for a clear view
Installed with safety for overpowering, over current, and over voltage
Safe in reverse polarity
Settings are easily changeable
The display shows 3 digit value in current and power while 4 digits in voltage

For starters, it might be hard as East Tester Electronic Load ET5411A (Amazon link) shows the Chinese language on display. Language can be easily changed with the guidance of the English Manual. However, it is the only flaw this instrument has.

Once in use, you won’t need another DC Electronics Load. It is reasonable at this price and no protest has been recorded of its faultiness.

3. MATRIX PEL-8150

Our next suggestion for the best DC electronics loads comes from Matrix, a reputable brand. Their products are reliable and trustworthy when it comes to instrumentation.

This specific model is specially manufactured for its mobility, use in harsh conditions, giving more accurate results, and providing practical conditions to power sources. It is tested at a maximum of room temperature, which is why it can be kept in hangers and garages.

Salient features:

This model has quality ratings of Voltage that is 150V
It tests the standard power sources of current rating 30A
Power rate of 150W is an acceptable value in the market for common DC Electronics loads
To make it movable in the work environment, it is made battery powered
It gives us a 0.03% error in reading. It is quite a low value for errors.
It is available in three year warranty
This model is comparatively light, weighing up to 3.5 kg
It reads well in temperatures of 0ºC to 40ºC
This model is also safe to travel in temperatures between 0ºC -70ºC

Smartness and mobility is the prime factor of MATRIX PEL-8150 (Amazon link). It is smooth and gives accurate results with fewer struggles. It is a good choice when it comes to fieldwork.

Reputable industries are seen using this model. It is cheap at the provided price as it has a longer life than other instruments.

4. KORAD KEL-103

This model is trusted by our clients for its classical looks and accuracy in reading. KORAD brand provides this model. This model goes hand in hand with its competitor when it comes to efficiency, long-life, simplicity in use and ability to monitor lowest-charged batteries. It is well-know for its silence.

This model has the following features:

Voltage rates 120V, a standard value in power sources
It tests the high value of current 30A
Power of 300W makes it user flexible in testing
It is Battery powered for the sake of moveability
It is light in weight for moveable that is 11 pounds (~5kg)
It is low priced for common folks
Shows 3 digits value
Silent in operations

In a short summary, the KORAD KEL-103 (Amazon link) is a good choice for the battery industry. As it is powered by a battery, it is also preferred for mobility.

5. Tekpower TP3710A

This DC electronics load looks older than others, but it is equally helpful as other models. The Tekpower Calibration Service designed the TP3710A model.

It mainly designs measuring and smart instruments. This model protects itself from reverse polarity. Moreover, there is an option between input voltages of 120V and 220V.

Salient features:

It is AC powered (selectable 120V/220V)
A voltage of 360V is enough for our use
The current rating of 30A is fine for everyday use and research purposes
A power of 150W is an excellent value to test DC power sources
Accurate in results
Rectangular and elongated display
LCD display with backlight for night mode
Certified in Calibration by the international institutes
Protection from polarity reversion is installed

In a short summary, the Tekpower TP3710A (Amazon link) is ideal for low DC power sources. It gives an accurate reading. Moreover, it shows 4 digital values. Senior engineers significantly use this model. Hence, it is trusted and more reliable. The price is quite reasonable.

6. Rigol DL3021

This DC electronics load is commonly used in the renewable energy sector. Rigol, a reputable brand in the instrumentation industry, has designed this model.

It is overly protected and accurate. Their ratings are according to the need of general requirements. It is simple and has more freedom in selecting a value. Moreover, readings are clear, precise, and easy to handle.

The following are the main features of this model:

It tests power sources of voltage 150V
Current rating has been kept a maximum of up to 40A
Power rating is 200W is more than enough
It has all 4 static modes common for testing
Protected from overpowering, overvoltage, over-current, and over-temperature.
Installed extra helping buttons
3 dynamics mode (continuous, pulsed, toggled) is available
A weight of 7.58kg is common for DC electronic loads
The error value is 0.01V in Voltage and Current.

We choose Rigol DL3021 (Amazon link) among other models of Rigol. This model provides many functions with ease. Buttons along with the display, as seen above, can easily navigate you to the target.

It is a simple model and comparatively silent. It will take 3 days for you to get acquainted with this device. It is offered at the lowest possible price.

7. Siglent Technologies SDL1030X-E

Our last selection for you is the SDL1030X-E model, designed by Siglent Technologies- a well-known and prestigious brand in instrumentation.

This model is widely used by engineers for research and production purposes in power sources (especially in the Renewable Energy sector). It is calm and accurate. Moreover, it simulates the exact condition of common DC loads.

It has the following features:

A voltage rating of 150V is a good value
The current rating of 30A is high for common use as well as research use
A power rating of 300W is enough for DC sources
4 static modes, CC, CR, CV, and CP (mentioned above) is installed
4 dynamic modes are available for CC 25kHz, for CV 0.5 Hz, and for CP 12.5 kHz.
Fluctuations can be measured up to 500kHz.
Compatible with PC
Highly efficient with lower error.
Well-defined squared display

In a short summary, the Siglent Technologies SDL1030X-E (Amazon link) is comfortable to use for lower as well as higher voltages. It gives an array of options to the user. Moreover, it is self-explanatory, silent, and the user gets acquainted after 2 or 3 times of use.

The brand offers several other models with a slight change in ratings. However, this model is good for all purposes for a low-budget industry.

Conclusion

Long story short, DC Electronics load saves our DC sources and devices. It provides an exact environment for a DC power source. They are important instruments in the field of power sources. We must go for a good DC electronics load to fulfill our needs.

We have listed the best options in DC electronics Loads by keeping the following points in mind:

Power, Voltage, and Current rating
Number of Installed Function
Compatibility with our PC
Dimension and physique
Display
Accuracy
Easiness in handling

We shortlisted different options keeping these factors in check. However, being a professional, I personally suggest SDL1030X-E (Amazon link).

It is easy to handle; gives an expanded view of readings; rates according to common needs; accurate in reading with 0.01% error; and comfortable to use. Moreover, with this reasonable price, one would hardly miss getting a hand on it.

And that is it. That is all I have for about some of the best DC electronics loads. I hope I was helpful.

Thank you and see you in the next article.

FAQs about Best DC Electronics Load Tester

In this session we want to answer some questions frequently asked by our clients and students about the DC load tester:

Q1: What is DC Electronic Load?

It is an electronic instrument to test DC Power Sources. It provides users with the practical situation of constant current, constant voltage, constant power, and constant resistance; it happens in DC loads. Moreover, these devices also check the charging and discharging capability of power sources.

Q2: Which one is better? Battery powered or AC Powered?

Well, frankly saying, it is not the best criteria to judge the performance of a device. It is based on the mobility of your use and the availability of an AC power source. The overall performance has nothing to do with this factor. Both are good.

Q3: Can we test the charging and discharging capacity of a battery using these Loads?

Of course yes. This is the prime objective of this instrument. It will show you the whole data related to the capability of a DC power source.

Q4: Do we buy software for programming?

No, a CD will be provided which will consist of software as well as necessary instruction. It is easy to learn and available with a USB cable on the technology of plug-in-play.

Q5: Why shouldn’t we buy unbranded or used loads?

The answer is quite simple. Unbranded or used loads do not provide the necessary equipment for use. That’s why it is difficult for users to get the proper drive and instructions. We often witnessed these troubles. That’s why we, strictly, warn you to avoid these measures and buy new ones.