Top 10 best single-phase meters - choice of single-tariff and multi-tariff meters

An electricity meter is needed to account for resource consumption and control it. You always want to choose a reliable and durable device. High-quality equipment is distinguished by high reliability and maximum accounting accuracy. A single-phase meter can be installed in an apartment or in a residential building.

For ease of choice, we have collected on this page the best and most current electricity meters. The list is compiled taking into account the characteristics. You need to look not only at the cost, but also at the price-quality ratio.

Which meter is better can only be said by knowing the specifics of using the device at a specific facility. Before buying a meter, decide on the following parameters:

Network - single-phase devices are suitable for use in a 220 V network; for a 380 V power network, three-phase models are used.
Tariffs – the price of a kilowatt of energy largely depends on the time of day. During peak loads it is maximum, at night it is noticeably cheaper. If you can save on this difference, pay attention to multi-tariff metering devices.
Measurement accuracy - minor errors are acceptable, but not more than 3%.
Brand – by choosing equipment from trusted brands, you get guaranteed quality. Meters "Mercury" and other domestic brands are in demand today due to their accuracy and affordable price. They have a simple design, are unpretentious in operation, and durable.

The more a device can do, the more expensive it is. Thus, meters that transmit readings without user intervention (appropriate settings are required) are more expensive than simpler analogues with manual data processing.

INCOTEX Mercury 201.5 5(60) A

The Russian-made energy meter has the first class of accuracy and provides accounting for the active consumption of electricity in single-phase circuits with alternating current. The housing is screwless, has protection against energy theft, and a mechanical reporting device as standard. A DIN rail is provided for mounting INCOTEX Mercury 201.5. Modules – 6 pieces.

The rated voltage in the network is 220 V, the current is 5 A, the limit value of 60 V cannot be exceeded. Tariff - only 1. The calibration interval of equipment is 16 years, more often it is done only if there are problems. The case is strong and durable.

Advantages:
compact dimensions;
high accuracy;
the ability to carry out measurements using a shunt;
stand-alone or combined with ASKUE Mercury PLC application;
protection against electricity theft;
screwless housing.
Flaws:
The device is decent, but only single-phase.

Rules for choosing an electric meter

Sooner or later it becomes necessary to replace the old meter with a new one. Which electric meter is more profitable to use in everyday life? What parameters should you pay attention to when purchasing it?

First of all, it is necessary to determine the number of phases of the device. This information is indicated on the front panel.

If the device is marked 220 or 230 V, it is a single-phase electric meter. And if 3x220/380 or 3x230/400 is indicated, this is a three-phase type of device.

Next, you need to select the type of device suitable for the current.

In the photo of the front panel, arrows indicate two numbers, which are the current characteristics of the device. The most widely used models are 5 (60) A, another type of marking is 5-60 A. Here 60 A is the maximum current, and 5 A is the nominal current.

The maximum current must be higher than that consumed in a residential building, so you need to pay attention to the rating of the input circuit breaker.

The inscription C 16 means that the rated current of the machine is 16 A.

Next, you need to determine the type of meter housing. offers three options:

for mounting on a DIN rail, if you need a meter installed in a panel on a support;
for mounting on a smooth plane using three bolts, if the mounting is carried out on a metal plate or in an electrical panel;
universal type, suitable for two types of installation.

In private households, the electric meter is mounted on a pole from which the power line is drawn to the building, or less often - on the facade. According to electricity suppliers, this measure should prevent theft. But those who like to illegally “save” are finding new ways to avoid paying for electricity.

Still, it’s better to save your budget in legal ways. For example, connect a two-tariff or multi-tariff meter. In this case, by shifting the work of powerful consumers to cheaper, nighttime hours, you can significantly reduce your family’s spending.

In Moscow, according to the two-tariff system for houses with gas stoves, 1 kWh during the day costs 6 rubles 18 kopecks. At night the amount is only 2 rubles 29 kopecks. And, if you pay using a single-tariff system, the price will be 5 rubles 38 kopecks, regardless of the time of day.

Important! If you bought a two-tariff meter, but decided to use one tariff for payment, do not rush to purchase a new device. A two-tariff meter can be used as a single-tariff meter. You will just need to pay for the kilowatts spent day and night at a single rate.

It is up to you to decide which type of electric meter to choose. But when purchasing, it is necessary to take into account the requirements of legislation and regulatory documents on power supply.

So, for example, according to Decree of the Government of the Russian Federation No. 530 of August 31, 2006, clause 141 and clause 1.5.15 of the Electrical Installation Rules (PUE 7), electricity meters with an accuracy class of 2.5 are not allowed to operate. The value should be lower. Usually it is: 0.5; 0.7; 1; 2.

In addition, it is necessary to pay attention to the age of the initial verification, which, according to clause 1.5.13 of the PUE (see Chapter 1.5), before installation should be no more than:

2 years for single-phase device;
1 year for a three-phase device.

If the verification was carried out before these deadlines, you will have to carry it out again before installation, otherwise the energy sales company will refuse to connect the device.

In addition, the screws securing the electric meter casing must have government seals. After installing the device, the energy supply organization will place its seal on the clamping cover.

In conclusion, I would like to emphasize that when purchasing an electric meter, you should not give preference to the cheapest models from unknown manufacturers. Choose products from manufacturers that have proven themselves in the consumer market.

Single-tariff and multi-tariff electricity meters: price and features

With the advent of electronic devices on the market, the system for recording data on consumed energy has changed significantly. Having installed an electric meter in an apartment, you can now carry out metering within several tariffs. Modern devices can support 2-3 tariffs, and some models even more.

How much do electricity meters cost: prices of four-tariff devices:

Device model	price, rub.
Energy meter CE 102M R5 145 J 253295	2320
EKF Skat 105E/1-5(60) TOI4 10501	2775

The operation of a multi-tariff meter is based on a breakdown of metering by time. For example, calculating energy consumption at a daily rate starts at 7.00 and stops at 23.00. The countdown of the night tariff regime begins at 23.00 and ends at 7.00.

Helpful advice! The cost of electrical energy consumed during the day is significantly higher than at night. All energy-intensive expenses, such as washing, can be scheduled at night to save money.

The price of day/night electricity meters is much higher than conventional single-tariff ones. But not all apartments have a significant difference between the cost of electricity during the day and at night, so the cost of purchasing multi-tariff equipment may not be recouped. Before purchasing, you should make cost calculations broken down by day/night and compare them with the results for a single tariff.

If the savings reach 35-50%, you can safely replace the electricity meter in your apartment with a multi-tariff one, but if the difference is only 100-200 rubles, then such a purchase will be inappropriate.

How much do electricity meters cost for an apartment: prices of single-tariff devices:

Device model	price, rub.
AGAT 1-1 SOE-52/50-11Sh 39014	1350
Mercury 201.5 63289	865
Mercury 230 AM-02 53469	2845
CE 101 R5 145 M6 88963	1155
TsE-6803V M7R32 147713	3260

Which company's electricity meter is better to buy?

The variety of electricity metering devices in stores amazes the buyer. Without special knowledge, it is difficult to make the right choice. In addition to the wide variety of device types, you also need to have an idea of the manufacturing companies that produce electricity meters.

The best electricity meters today are produced by four companies. Among their products you can find both single-tariff and multi-tariff devices:

Energomera is the leader in the Russian market of electricity metering devices. The company has been producing 3,000,000 devices annually for 25 years, which are subsequently sold in Russia and the CIS countries. The manufacturer owns 4 modern factories and 1 corporate institute of electrical instrument making. The company tirelessly monitors the quality of the product; the return rate for electricity meters is kept to a minimum.
Incotex is Russia's largest developer and manufacturer of unique radio-electronic products. The company produces 800 types of various electrical devices sold on world markets. The manufacturer stands out by introducing the most modern technologies into production, which makes the products safe and in demand in the eyes of thousands of customers.
Taypit is a company founded in 1991 and for two decades has been one of the leaders in the markets of electrical installation and electrical equipment. The organization is the exclusive distributor of a number of products, and also produces its own unique devices that meet the needs of households.
ABB is an international company that has developed its activities in the field of electrical networks, robotics, industrial automation and electric drives. To date, the manufacturer has produced 70 million devices, which were sold in 100 countries around the world. The company not only produces, but also services equipment, which is also a definite advantage for the ordinary buyer.

All of the above companies are independent developers and manufacturers of household electricity meters that meet global and Russian safety standards.

Energy meter CE 101 R5 145 M6 5(60) A

A good, high-quality, affordable metering device. The manufacturer's assortment includes different models - including those with an LCD screen, of different accuracy classes. Model CE-101 R5 is quite compact and comes in a cardboard box. The box indicates the brand, barcode and meter number, location, and date of manufacture. A spare seal is included.

The Energomera CE 101 device is intended for installation in two-wire single-phase networks, alternating current. The case is plastic, there is a printed circuit board inside. In the middle there is a window for reading readings. There is an LED on the front panel - it lights up constantly when the voltage is stable and blinks in case of overload.

Limit current up to 60 A, voltage - 230 V. Accuracy class - 1. Average operating time 220,000 hours. According to the specification, the service life is 30 years.

Advantages:
maximum measurement accuracy;
presence of a verification test output;
easy installation;
long service life;
light indicators.
Flaws:
there are no objective ones.

Necessary components and tools for installing an electric meter

Before installing the electric meter, you must prepare all the tools to work with the device. Next, you should secure a special box for the device.

Before installation work, you must prepare the necessary tools:

knife;
screwdrivers (phillips and flathead):
drill;
pliers;
hammer;
pointer tester;
screws;
monolithic copper wire.

Single-phase electricity meters are installed on the landing of an apartment building. Sometimes they are located in apartments, and in rare cases the devices are installed outdoors. The old one is dismantled and the seals are removed. Next, remove the cover on the electric meter and disconnect the wires. The new device is installed in place of the old one, and then the wires are connected. The final stage is to check the functionality of the equipment.

If a single-phase electricity meter needs to be installed in a new location, then it is best to choose a flat wall and place the device at a height of 1.5 meters. This is considered to be the most convenient distance for viewing readings on the device screen. Next, using a hammer drill, you need to drill holes for the box. And then secure the device itself and all modular equipment (switches, buses, RCDs).

INCOTEX Mercury 201.7 5(60) A

Popular meter model in Moscow. The INCOTEX Mercury 201.7 device is needed for metering active electricity in two-wire networks with alternating current. Operation is possible indoors and in places that have normal protection from negative environmental factors (installation is done in shields, cabinets).

Electricity consumption is measured digitally. There are no magnetically sensitive elements in the power supply system or measuring circuits. The working mechanism in the reading device is anti-reverse, there is protection from the negative effects of magnetic fields.

Electricity is taken into account modulo, indicators can increase with different phasing of connected circuits. The design is one-piece; if you try to open it, it completely collapses. The current and voltage parameters in the network are standard for the class under consideration. Accuracy – 1st category. MTBF no less than 220,000 hours. The warranty period is not long, only 3 years. The standard calibration interval is 16 years.

Advantages:
digital accurate measurements;
minimum dimensions in its category;
DIN rail installation;
protection against opening (the structure simply collapses).
Flaws:
According to user reviews, there are none.

Energy meter CE 101 R5.1 145 M6 5(60) A

The single-phase electric meter is manufactured taking into account GOST and TU standards. Mounted on a DIN rail, the device performs well when measuring active energy in two-wire, single-phase AC networks. A shunt is used as a sensor. There are 2 types of housing available.

The calibration intervals of Energomer CE 101 are 16 years, the average service life is twice as long. The warranty, as required by law, is provided - from 5 to 7 years, taking into account the year of manufacture. The basic version comes with a liquid crystal display, which guarantees maximum protection against magnetization. There is a reverse stopper and a magnetic shield. The general characteristics of the metering device are standard; no violations have been recorded.

Advantages:
warranty up to 7 years;
first class of accuracy;
maximum completeness in the basic version;
2 types of housing;
a pair of exits;
resistance to electromagnetic influences.
Flaws:
Rarely, but marriage does occur.

Advantages and disadvantages of multiple tariffs

New metering devices have their own design features, as well as advantages and disadvantages, which must be familiarized when choosing a device. The advantages include:

Environmental friendliness. The amount of harmful and poisonous emissions into the atmosphere and people is reduced.
Tangible savings on the family budget. Experience shows that the device fully pays for itself within one year.
Facilitating the operation of power plants: saving fuel, reducing the cost of repairs and maintenance.

Among the disadvantages of the devices, it is worth highlighting only the need to adapt to the tariffs of the meter. If you neglect this, the number of expenses will not be reduced.

INCOTEX Mercury 201.2 5(60) A

The meters are used to account for active electricity in two-wire alternating current networks. Installation strictly indoors, optionally in panels and cabinets. Network - 220 V, maximum current - 60 A, accuracy class - 1, that is, the parameters are standard for single-phase models.

For measurements in the INCOTEX Mercury 201.2 meter, the digital method is used. There are no magnetically sensitive components in the design. The reporting device is equipped with protection against anti-reverse and magnetic fields, which increases the accuracy of the readings. Accounting is modular. Installation is usually done on a DIN rail. The kit includes an adapter strip with connecting parameters for the meters. Fault tolerance 150,000 hours. The warranty on the metering device is only 3 years.

Advantages:
1 accuracy class;
compact dimensions;
adequate performance characteristics;
availability of protection from magnetic fields;
low price of the meter.
Flaws:
Sometimes readings during phasing increase inaccurately.

Which electricity meter is better to buy?

In order not to make a mistake when purchasing a device, you need to pay attention to several important criteria. One of them is the number of meter tariffs.

In a room where the cost of a kilowatt depends on the time of day, it is better to install a multi-tariff model to save money. In other cases, the mechanism of operation of the device may be single-tariff.

Another characteristic of the electric meter is the maximum permissible current:

For installation in an apartment with an energy consumption of no more than 10 kW per day, a device that meets a load of up to 60 Amperes will be sufficient.
If there is a large amount of powerful equipment in the room, you should purchase a meter rated for current up to 100 A.

When purchasing an electricity meter, you must take into account the date of the next verification indicated in the device passport. When installing a device that has not completed the procedure on time, you should initiate it yourself to avoid a fine.

According to the legislation of the Russian Federation, installed meters must meet an accuracy class of at least 2.0. Otherwise, they are not subject to verification and maintenance, and the device will be replaced at the expense of the owner.

It is also beneficial for the resident to purchase a device with a high level of accuracy, so as not to regularly overpay for metering errors.

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Energy meter CE 102 R5.1 145 J 5(60) A

Single-phase multi-tariff model. Installation is on a DIN rail, or can be done in a panel. Active electrical energy is measured, single-phase circuits, alternating current. 4 main tariffs plus emergency with transmission of readings via RS-485 or optical interface. The device displays network parameters on the display.

The characteristics of the Energomer CE 102 meter are standard, the verification interval is 16 years, the average service life is 30 years. Warranty 5-7 years depending on the year of manufacture (before 2022 - 5 years, after - 7). The accuracy class is maximum, event logs are constantly maintained, operating parameters are programmed. If there is no voltage in the network, the readings are still shown on the display. LCD is resistant to magnetic fields. The memory is non-volatile.

Advantages:
multi-tariff mode;
warranty up to 7 years;
modern interfaces;
correctness of readings, regardless of operating conditions;
multitasking at work;
saving readings;
resistance to negative factors.
Flaws:
high price.

INCOTEX Mercury 201.4 10(80) A

The INCOTEX Mercury 201.4 metering device has a standard design; the role of a current sensor is performed by a shunt in the circuit phase. Pulse output, telemetric. There is a built-in PLC modem. The housing is screwless and has compact dimensions. The design is non-demountable.

The readings are recorded on a module-by-module basis, which guarantees maximum accuracy of the results obtained. Mounting is carried out on a DIN rail. At the buyer's request, it is possible to purchase adapter plates with the connecting dimensions of induction meters. The pulse output can be used during verification. There are no side holographic counters.

Advantages:
1 accuracy class;
increased maximum current;
compact dimensions;
quick easy installation;
resistance to environmental conditions.
Flaws:
The warranty is only 3 years.

Typeit NEVA 103 1S0 230V 5(60) A 5(60) A

Single-phase single-tariff device with a mechanical dial. The maximum current is 60 A, voltage is 220 V, accuracy class is first. Installation is quick and convenient - on a Din rail. Additionally, there are latches that do not break during operation.

The dimensions of the Typeit NEVA 103 are modest, which is, of course, a plus; the dial includes 7 fairly large numbers. The readings are not saved, which, of course, is inconvenient in case of network failures. If the readings are incorrect, during sealing the calculations will be performed based on average indicators. The maximum operating time is 280,000 hours on average. The warranty period from the date of creation is 7 years. The average service life promised by the manufacturer is 30 years.

Advantages:
affordable price;
maximum reliability;
ease of installation;
a complete list of guarantees;
convenient fastening of wires.
Flaws:
According to reviews, marriage sometimes happens.

The best electronic electricity meters

The mechanism of operation of models of this type is based on the effect of alternating current and voltage on solid-state elements. The number of electrical impulses produced reflects the amount of energy consumed.

Such meters are capable of accounting at differentiated tariffs and are distinguished by a high level of accuracy and compactness. Unfortunately, they cannot function as long as mechanical ones, and they are much more expensive.

ABB E31 412-200

4.9

★★★★★

editorial assessment

96%

buyers recommend this product

See review▶

The compact housing occupies 5 modules on a DIN rail, has a long terminal cover and an original design. The model operates at a load of up to 80 Amperes and supports the installation of several tariffs.

The device is distinguished by the presence of an electronic seal, a non-separable design and a current sensor in the neutral wire circuit. This guarantees reliable protection against attempts to steal electrical energy.

Advantages:

saving previous readings;
compactness;
measurement of network parameters;
protection from moisture and dust;
ease of installation.

Flaws:

difficulty of initial setup.

The device reflects energy consumption at individual tariffs and stores this information for up to a year. It also keeps track of network voltage, power and load indicators. This makes the ABB E31 an excellent solution for multi-tariff electricity metering systems.

Skat 105E/1-5 SHOI4 P1 PROxima

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

88%

buyers recommend this product

The model features a long warranty and a high protection class - IP54. It guarantees almost complete protection of the main elements of the device from dust and moisture.

The weight of the meter is 362 grams, the maximum current is 60 amperes. The device is easy to install thanks to one-way connection and mounting of the housing on a DIN rail.

Advantages:

warranty period - 7 years;
protection from moisture and dust;
electronic indication;
small dimensions.

Flaws:

no fasteners included.

PROxima ramp is intended for use in single-tariff networks. A reliable housing and stable operation will ensure a long service life when installed in a garage workshop or outbuilding.

Schneider Electric A9MEM3250R

4.8

★★★★★

editorial assessment

87%

buyers recommend this product

The model is capable of keeping records of active energy, voltage, current and power. The device has the function of monitoring consumption from a selected moment, which allows you to track electricity consumption in more detail.

Colored indicators notify the owner about processes such as data exchange, checking the accuracy, as well as the correct operation of the meter. The device supports energy metering systems with 9 customizable tariffs.

Advantages:

status indication;
multiple tariffs;
external control;
ease of installation.

Flaws:

no reverse stop.

Schneider Electric has an intuitive setup and mode indication system. An excellent choice for multi-tariff power networks.

Legrand Counter 3F Ch/Trans 5A

4.7

★★★★★

editorial assessment

85%

buyers recommend this product

The model features a wide eight-digit display and a pulse output. It allows you to transmit data on energy consumption over a distance depending only on the caliber of the transformer.

The maximum permissible current is 60 A. A wide informative screen displays not only the amount of electricity consumed, but also the current network voltage in the range from 110 to 230 volts.

Advantages:

remote control;
information screen;
resistance to power surges;
accuracy class - 2.0.

Flaws:

not protected from moisture and dust.

Legrand 3F Ch/Trans is worth purchasing for installation in a building with an unstable electricity supply. The device will be useful to owners of private houses or small workshops.

Energy meter CE 101 S6 145 M6 5(60) A

The dimensions of the meter are compact; full information about the product is contained on the box and in the operating instructions. The package includes a couple of spare seals, be sure to check the acceptance certificate. The meter monitors the energy consumption consumed simultaneously by all devices.

The Energomer CE 101 body is made of durable plastic. It contains a printed circuit board, on which the electrical part of the device is assembled and a counting mechanism is attached. At the top there is a window for displaying readings. The number of sections in the counting mechanism is 5. There are LEDs - they determine the light voltage and analyze the network loads.

Advantages:
1 accuracy class;
presence of light indication;
durability and warranty;
quick easy installation;
Availability of network frequency tolerances.
Flaws:
They are not here.