10 best digital soil testers

Digital soil testers are essential tools used in gardening, landscaping, and agriculture to assess the characteristics of soil in terms of pH levels, moisture content, and nutrient levels. These devices help gardeners, farmers, and landscapers make informed decisions about soil management and plant health. Here is some information about digital soil testers:

  1. pH Measurement: One of the primary functions of digital soil testers is to measure the pH level of the soil. Soil pH is a measure of how acidic or alkaline the soil is, and it significantly impacts plant growth and nutrient availability. Most plants thrive in soils with a pH between 6.0 and 7.0.

  2. Moisture Content: Digital soil testers can also measure soil moisture content. Knowing the moisture level helps gardeners determine when and how much to water their plants. Overwatering or underwatering can be detrimental to plant health, so maintaining the right moisture level is crucial.

  3. Nutrient Levels: Some advanced digital soil testers can assess nutrient levels in the soil. They provide information about essential nutrients like nitrogen (N), phosphorus (P), and potassium (K). This data helps users decide if fertilization is necessary and what type of fertilizer to use.

  4. Salinity Measurement: In agriculture, particularly in arid regions, digital soil testers may measure soil salinity levels.High salinity can harm plants by affecting their ability to take up water and nutrients.

  5. Temperature: Some digital soil testers include temperature sensors. Soil temperature can affect plant growth and microbial activity, making it a useful parameter to monitor, especially in agriculture.

  6. Data Display: Results from digital soil testers are typically displayed digitally on an LCD screen, making it easy for users to read and interpret the data.

  7. User-Friendly: These testers are designed to be user-friendly, with straightforward instructions and buttons for ease of use. They are suitable for both professional and amateur gardeners.

  8. Portable: Many digital soil testers are portable and handheld, making them convenient for on-site testing in gardens, fields, or greenhouses.

  9. Battery-Powered: They are usually powered by batteries, ensuring that they can be used in various outdoor settings without needing a power source.

  10. Data Storage: Some advanced models may have data storage capabilities, allowing users to record and track soil test results over time for better soil management.

  11. Calibration: Periodic calibration may be required to ensure the accuracy of the measurements. Most digital soil testers come with instructions on how to calibrate them.

Digital soil testers are valuable tools for anyone involved in gardening, landscaping, or agriculture. By providing essential information about soil conditions, they enable users to make informed decisions about soil amendments, watering schedules, and overall plant care to promote healthy and productive growth.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best digital soil testers on the market
  

Luster Leaf 1605 Digital Soil Test Kit for pH, N, P and K, 1

Luster Leaf

Based on 548 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Electronic version of Luster Leaf’s popular 1601 Soil Test Kit. The rapitest Digital Soil Tester utilizes advanced LED digital technology and patent-pending optical calibration system to read test colors. The system is calibrated to read small color variations that can be difficult to distinguish with the human eye. The tester is easy to use. Just follow the easy instructions for each soil pH, nitrogen, phosphorus or potash tests; slide the test tube in optical chamber and push the appropriate button to get the test results. Once you have your soil test results, the tester booklet tells you how to adjust soil pH and provides recommendations for fertilizers. The booklet’s pH preference list allows you to select plants for your soil’s pH or know how much to adjust the soil pH for your current plants.

  • Reads test colors utilizing advanced LED digital technology
  • Just push test button to get results in a few seconds
  • Includes pH preferences for over 450 plants and how to adjust soil pH
  • Booklet has fertilizer guidelines based on nitrogen, phosphorus and potash test results.
  • Performs 25 tests: 10 for pH and 5 each for Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potash

User questions & answers

Question: Can i get spare capsules for the tester on amazon
Answer: Whoever the carrier is, notify them! Then call Amazon customer service!
Question: Does the 1601 or 1609CS's capsules used for refill to this tester
Answer: Yes this three in one meter reads soil ph. Put it in the ground wait a few minutes and it gives a very close to accurate reading. Just don't forget about it in the pot for days it won't work right afterwards
Question: I tested using: Water: pH 6.5, N depleted, P surplus, K surplus (?) Distilled water: pH 6.5-7.0, N depleted, K sufficient/adequate, it seems that part
Answer: This meter can be used indoors or outdoors.
Question: What is the unit that is used in this testing kit
Answer: Skip it, it does not apply to you!

Product features

About Us

Luster Leaf Products, Inc. maintains it's manufacturing and warehousing facilities in Woodstock, Illinois, the company’s headquarters.

In an effort to provide products for successful gardening, Luster Leaf continues to grow and change, offering a diverse group of products for indoor and outdoor gardening. Luster Leaf offers seed sowing aids, plant identification labels and ties, soil meters, soil testers and mosses, and continues with a profuse selection of plant supports and garden decor.

Whether looking for a solution for drooping dahlias, or just fed-up with poor results in the flower bed, Luster Leaf’s product selection can help.

Luster Leaf 1845, Digital Soil Ph Meter, Brown

Luster Leaf

Based on 369 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Soil test meter measures soil pH with digital screen.

  • Easy to read digital output
  • Instantly measures acidity or alkalinity level
  • Includes printed plant list
  • Product specifically designed to be used only in soil

User questions & answers

Question: Is this tester for lawns as well as gardens
Answer: I have used it in all types of soil mixtures. The moss should probably read ok if it is compact.
Question: What is the range of this meter
Answer: China

Luster Leaf 1880 Rapitest Tester Electronic 4-Way Analyzer, Soil

Luster Leaf

Based on 542 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The Rapitest 4-Way Analyzer offers the best value, but featuring premium meters in one. This multi-purpose meter allows you to monitor the conditions of soil pH, soil moisture, light quantity and total combined Nitrogen (N), Phosphorus (P) and Potash (K) levels. The extensive instructions guide you through the use of each function and also provide recommendations based on your results. A cleaning pad is also included which allows you to properly scrub the probes between uses. No batteries required.

From the Manufacturer

The rapitest 4-way Analyzer was designed and engineered in the USA to help gardeners measure 3 important soil requirements and sunlight levels, for more successful gardening: Soil pH to determine if soil is acidic or alkaline; total measurement of N, P and K to determine if plants are over or under fertilized; and a soil moisture reading to help prevent over watering of plants. The meter is also calibrated to the Mean Solar Table developed by USDA. It is designed and engineered solely to measure sunlight for plants. The meter uses an exclusive purple chromatic filter to color correct light for plants. No batteries required for operation.

  • Measure soil pH, Moisture, Fertility and also Sunlight
  • Great value versus separate meters
  • Large, easy to read scale plate
  • Simple, yet extensive instructions/recommendations included
  • Use for fruits/veggies, trees/shrubs, plant/flowers and grasses/lawns

User questions & answers

Question: Having problems with the probe. Known very acidic soil and very basic soil mixtures are not swaying the pH function more that 1 pH unit
Answer: No order from web site for luster leaf
Question: does the soil have to be wet to measure ph
Answer: If you go to the lusterleaf.com home page and click on "products," at the right side there is a light green square that brings up a capsule order form. The order form is the same whether you bring up the 1601 soil test kit, the 1609CS, or the 1605, so my guess is that the same capsules are used for all three, so the answer to your question would be, "Yes." But if you want an definite answer, you'll probably have to contact Lusterleaf. Contact information is available on the home page or at the bottom of the capsule order form..
Question: How long are probes
Answer: I didn’t get good results from this test because our soil is so full of clay that the orange color skewed our results.
Question: Are the probes supposed to come out of the casing while using
Answer: The test results are all based on parts per million.

Luster Leaf 1818 Rapitest 4-in1 Soil pH/Moisture/Fertility/Light Tester, Fertility

Based on 462 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Measure four soil indicators at once with this 4-in-1 meter. Measure sunlight exposure, soil fertility, soil moisture and soil pH with this triple-probed device. Prevent scorching, overwatering, overfertilizing and ensure the soil acidity/alkalinity is ideal for whatever you have planted or are about to plant. Toggle between various gauges for instant readings. No batteries required for operation.

  • Helps provide a healthy growing environment
  • Measures sunlight, soil fertility, soil moisture, and soil pH
  • Three stainless steel probes
  • Product specifically designed to be used only in soil
  • No batteries required
  • Product specifically designed to be used only in soil

User questions & answers

Question: Does this meter have a warranty
Answer: Hello Yes, you can , it will works. Thanks Dixie Divers
Question: When you add water to soil prior to testing, how soupy should the mud be? Should it be the consistency of dough, pudding, or chocolate syrup
Answer: Hello The arm is long enough We think so Thanks
Question: What are the rubber pads on top? They have some type of wiring conected to the underside of them
Answer: Yes. I bought it for my husband. He said yes, but he is not going to use it for that. He does not want to get it gross and dirty. He uses it for checking attics, A/C returns, Walls Heaters, small area where you cant get to.
Question: how long is the mini tester probes
Answer: Not sure how well that would work. You would have to tape the magnet to the cable and it would have to be extremely powerful magnet

Bluelab PENSOILPH pH Pen for Soil, Coco, Rockwool and Solution, Easy Calibration

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

A handy solution made easy! The Bluelab Soil pH Pen provides a pH and temperature reading of soils and media, so you know that the right nutrients will be made available to your plants. In soils or growing media, pH strongly influences the availability of the microorganisms to plants in the soil. Now you can closely monitor and adjust the pH levels right from the palm of your hand for optimum plant health and performance. It will also measure solutions too. Now, isn't that handy? Features - Direct pH and temperature measurements into soils/media - Backlit LCD display - Hold reading function - Integrated storage cap/dibber - Successful pH calibration indicator - Low battery indicator - Fully waterproof - Auto off function - Selectable units for ˚C & ˚F - Automatic temperature compensation.

  • Measures pH in meda (and solution) for acid or alkaline conditions to make precise up and down adjustments with lab quality glass probe used for the pool, drinking water, hydroponics, brewing, and growing
  • EASY two point calibration and auto temperature compensation makes this digital meter a handy tool with backlit LCD display and calibration reminders
  • Complete your monitor and controller system with other testers and meters from Bluelab, more accurate than test strips and other testing methods
  • Other features: auto off function, low battery indicator, units for temperature; KIT INCLUDES: AAA battery, storage cap, and calibration solution
  • Made in New Zealand and manufactured by Bluelab, the industry leader in hydroponic testing equipment; 1 Year Limited Warranty with proof of purchase

User questions & answers

Question: Is there a pad in the cap that absorbs elcteode storage solution
Answer: They ship it dry.... but once activated make sure you keep the tip in solution when you've got the lid on!
Question: Does this pen really have to be calibrated
Answer: Yes. 1 yr on the pen and 6 mo on the electrode.
Question: are batteries included
Answer: I look all over and can’t find where it is made. Sorry
Question: How often do users have to calibrate this meter and how accurate is it
Answer: It measures the electrical conductivity of particulates (salt included) in solution.

Product features

Get the fundamentals of growing right, every time

The versatile Bluelab Soil pH Pen can be used in a variety of growing media, including soil, coco coir, potting mixes and solutions. Contrary to popular belief, all growers need to measure pH, regardless of whether you’re growing in soil or in solution. Start measuring pH today.

New Zealand-made quality, built for growers

Our products are designed and built with growers, for grower environments - so you can relax knowing that your pen can withstand the knocks, drops and deep-water plunges that come with everyday growing. The Bluelab pH Pen was designed and built in New Zealand.

Easy calibration

Get rid of the headache of calibration with our simple two-point calibration process. Remember to calibrate before first use. Each pen comes with a 30-day calibration indicator that can be easily viewed on a backlit LCD display.

Dibber included to improve lifespan

The Bluelab Soil pH Pen comes with a probe cover that acts as a dibber, allowing you to first press your pen into a substrate, removing the cover and then taking a reading in the indentation. This protects your pen's probe, reducing the risk of wear and tear.

Superior design and manufacturing

All Bluelab products are proudly designed and manufactured in New Zealand. The design focuses on ergonomic qualities to assist with regular use in varying grow environments. Our rigorous production process includes each pen being inspected by hand before it finds its way to you!

The Bluelab promise

All Bluelab's handheld pens come with reputable support. This means that you can have complete peace of mind when you invest in the Bluelab Soil pH Pen.

Bluelab: Trusted by growers like you for over 30 years

For over 30 years, Bluelab has been providing award-winning and innovative technology that helps growers unlock their plants' full potential. At Bluelab, we believe that our commitment to designing hardy, purpose-built products and creating strong educational programs will help elevate the standard of growing. Together with our growers, we will create a world with fewer pesticides, food miles and less water usage. Let Bluelab’s products take your growing to the next level.

VIVOSUN PH Meter Soil Tester Combo, Digital PH Water Tester and 3-in-1 Plant Moisture Light PH Meter for Garden

Based on 13 reviews Check latest price

Product description

PH meter helps to test the water ph value, soil meter helps to test the soil ph value; Customers can configure the nutrient solution with a specific pH value required by the plants. Good use of these 2 useful and convenient tools can promote plants grow healthier and more vigorous.

  • Advanced technology makes the test result fast and accurate.Easy calibration
  • With Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC). Adjust to water temperature and give pH reading almost instantly.
  • 3-in-1 Plant moisture sensor meter can test soil moisture light and pH (Design for testing soil ONLY. Do not be used to test pure water or other liquid)
  • Let you know your soil when to water, control pH level, determine if plant getting adequate light
  • Compact and portable design for indoor/outdoor use good for gardener or planter

BioLogic Digital pH Meter

Bio Logic

Based on 75 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Proper pH levels can make all the difference to the success of a food plot. The correct balance will unlock each plant's ability to utilize soil minerals and nutrients, producing an ideal crop. The New BioLogic Digital pH Meter allows the food plot planter the opportunity to test and evaluate the pH level at each site by inserting the probe into the moist soil and reading the meter.

  • Scientifically proven, easy to use soil tester
  • Instantly know the acidity, or alkalinity of your soil
  • Maximize food plot production

User questions & answers

Question: will this work for water also
Answer: This flash doesn't have bounce or tilt features.
Question: Will this tester give accurate pH levels for food to be canned
Answer: These are all the included items: Sea Dragon 2500 Underwater Photo/Video Light headFlex-Connect Single Tray w/ standard ¼-20 mounting screwFlex-Connect grip25Wh Lithium Ion rechargeable batteryAC Power Adapter, charging tray, and international plug adaptersAdapter for GoPro cameras with acorn nutSpare O-rings, O-ring lubricant, O-ring removal toolInstruction manualSea Dragon Case
Question: Is the itemdurable
Answer: For underwater photography it all depends on depth and environment. Fresh water vs salt. Try SeaLife for a scale but there are just a lot of variables. I use it on a SeaLife Micro 2.0 up to depths of 100 ft and it has worked well in my pictures.

Luster Leaf Digital Moisture Meter

Based on 296 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Moisture meter for testing soil moisture

  • Easy to read digital output
  • Instantly measures moisture level
  • Includes printed plant list
  • From Rapitest – The Leaders in Soil Testing
  • Designed and engineered in the USA
  • Product specifically designed to be used only in soil

User questions & answers

Question: Mine only displays 0.0 no matter what I do. What is happening
Answer: I have a small camcorder whose built in light is is really inadequate and there is no mount for an external light. I mount my camcorder to this grip with a 36 LED light to the shoe adapter on top. I have used that arrangement on a tripod and hand held and it works well. However, it is clear that a heaver camera would be unstable as the grip is really narrow.
Question: Can I use this device to measure the % of water of my mix raw materials, usually minerals like phospathe, calcim etc
Answer: Yes
Question: Does the moisture reading remain on the screen for a few seconds, long enough to remove it from the soil and raise it to read
Answer: I doubt you could use a softbox, the flash has very low profile. An on camera softbox would probably interfere with the lens. You could use some other light modifier. I use this flash as a fill flash only, it doesn't have enough power to serve as a primary light source.
Question: Do the numbers correlate with any specific unit of measurement or percentage
Answer: No, it is fixed.

Product features

Prevent Over and Under Watering Your Plants

The Rapitest 1825 Moisture Meter helps you determine when to water your plants.

Clear and Easy to Read

Meter shows how much moisture is in the soil with an easy-to-read digital meter. Specifically designed to be used only in soil.

Easy to Read Instructions

The 1825 includes an easy-to-read instruction guide on when to water, tester care and good advice. Indicates watering needs for over 100 plants.

Rapitest 1825 Digital Moisture Meter

Measure soil moisture accurately and digitally with this moisture meter. The moisture sensor offers instant digital read-out and a long stainless steel probe checks soil moisture at root level. Monitoring a plant's soil moisture level helps prevent over and under watering.

General Tools MMD4E Digital Moisture Meter, Water Leak Detector, Moisture Tester, Pin Type, Backlit LCD Display With Audible and Visual High-Medium-Low Moisture Content Alerts, Grays

General Tools

Based on 7 reviews Check latest price

Product description

The General Tools MMD4E Pin-Style Digital Moisture Meter provides accurate moisture level reading to detect leaks, dampness and moisture in wood, walls, ceiling, carpet and firewood. It is an essential tool for assessing water damage and remediation efforts after flooding from storms, hurricanes, roof leaks or broken pipes to discover hidden water damage in floors, walls and under carpets. By checking suspicious water stains with a moisture tester around the house, you can determine whether the area is wet (a perfect breeding ground for mold) or has long since dried. This water leak detector also is helpful for new home inspections and home restorations, locating roof leaks or simply to ensure firewood is ready to burn. It also ensures the appropriate level of surface dryness before painting, sealing or treating wood or drywall. The moisture meter is easy to use: simply stick the stainless steel pins into the surface of what you are measuring in order to get a read-out. Overall measurement range of 5 to 50% for wood and 1.5 to 33% for building materials. The backlit, large, easy-to-read digits and clearly-designed LED alerts tell you immediately if the moisture content is high, medium or low. Plus, the moisture meter has audible high, medium, low alerts so you will be able to hear the level even if you are in a dark or awkward space where you can’t see the screen. The sturdy, ergonomic shape and rubber side grips allow for comfort even when using for multiple measurements. Every moisture meter also feature a hold function to freeze a reading to read later, auto power off and a low battery indicator. Every package includes extra 0.3 in. (8mm) stainless steel pins, a protective cap that doubles as a calibration checker and a “9V” battery.

SPECIFICATIONS • Measurement ranges: 5 to 50%WME (Wood Moisture Equivalent) for wood, 1.5 to 33% for building materials

• Moisture measurement accuracy/resolution: ±3%/0.1%

• Pin length: 0.3 in. (8mm)

• Wood moisture scales: 5 to 11.9% (low); 12 to 15.9% (medium); 16 to 50% (high)

• Building materials scales: 1.5 to 16.9% (low); 17 to 19.9% (medium); 20 to 33% (high)

• Display size and type: 99.9 count backlit LCD with 0.3 in. (8mm) high digits

• Auto power off: After 3 minutes of inactivity

• Dimensions: 6.0 x 2.6 x 0.8 in. (152 x 66 x 20 mm) • Weight: 3 oz. (86g)

• Power source: "9V" battery (included)

GENERAL TOOLS - THE PRECISE TOOL FOR DOING THE JOB EXACTLY RIGHT. Offering over 1,000 tools, we’re proud to provide tradesmen, craftsmen and DIYers around the world with a broad range of affordable, specific-purpose mechanical hand tools and precision measuring and inspection tools.

For inquiries, please contact our Customer Service Department at 212-431-6100. We strive to provide our customers with 100% satisfaction.

WORK SMARTER, MEASURE BETTER & BE MORE PRODUCTIVE WITH GENERAL TOOLS

  • DETECT MOISTURE- Determine the moisture content of wood and other building materials (like drywall) or check water damaged areas to see if moisture is still present
  • FIRST STEP IN MOLD PREVENTION - By checking suspicious water stains with a moisture tester around the house, you can determine whether the area is wet (a perfect breeding ground for mold) or has long since dried
  • ACCURACY- Stick the stainless steel pins into the surface of what you are measuring in order to get a read-out. Overall measurement range of 5 to 50% for wood and 1. 5 to 33% for building materials as well as low, medium and high moisture tones and colored green, yellow and red LED visual alerts
  • EASY TO READ AND USE- Large 0. 3 in. (8mm) high digits in a backlit LCD display for quick and easy viewing plus a hold function to freeze a reading, auto power off and a low battery indicator
  • INCLUDES- Extra 0. 3 in. (8mm) stainless steel pins, protective cap that doubles as a calibration checker and a “9V” battery

User questions & answers

Question: made in USA
Answer: Nathan, Thanks for the question. The Moisture Range on this Hand Held meter for CORN is 10 - 40%. However, the clear plastic funnel which is provided to assist with consistent filling of the test cell, will not work well on corn over say 25 - 30%. This is due to the lack of flowability in the higher moisture content. I would suggest that you still fill the funnel, but pour the sample back out the large end at just 1 - 2" above the test cell. EVERY TIME and at the same Rate. With this consistency, you would have much greater repeatability between different tests. I would also suggest using the feature to average three readings to allow for some fill variation. Hope that this has help with the operation of the meter. Tom Runyon Seedburo Equipment Co.
Question: I have a wooden floor that is swelling little bit. I know I had a small water leak. Can this tool help me to check if there is moisture underneath
Answer: Not on the standard instrument, but YES, Long Grain and Medium Grain Rough Rice have recently been added to the available Calibration list. These would need to be substituted on the list, for example, Oats and Milo could come off and we add in the Long Grain & Medium Grain Rough Rice. Just let us know at the time you place your order and we will make this substitution free of charge. Seedburo Equipment Co.
Question: Can I use this product to rule out a plumbing leak under my concrete bathroom floor. The outer bathroom wall is concrete & paint is bubbling
Answer: Es el mismo equipo, la unica diferencia es que el GACMINI2500 es mas preciso.
Question: accuracy
Answer: Thank you for your question. No, the GACMINI testers do not test frozen grains, only the GAC2500UGMA or GAC2500AGRI have the capability of reading this much lower temperature and compensating for this in the calibration. You can view a list of the available calibrations for the MINI testers at the following website: http://cal.dickey-john.com/calibrations.aspx Please let us know if you have any other questions - Kathy at Seedburo Equipment Company

Product features

Water Damage is the First Sign of Mold

Finding moisture is the first step in early mold prevention. High levels of moisture that go untreated are the main cause for harmful mold growth in the home.

With the MMD4E moisture meter, use the pin sensors to find the moisture content in your wood or drywall. This will help you know if you need to dry the existing materials or replace with brand new ones.

Quickly determine what level of remediation is needed to keep your family safe with the MMD4E moisture meter by General Tools!

iPower Digital PH Water Tester and 3-in-1 Plant Moisture Light PH Soil Meter Combo for Garden

iPower

Based on 3 reviews Check latest price

Product description

iPower Digital PH Water Tester and 3-in-1 Plant Moisture Light PH Soil Meter Combo for Garden

  • Water pH meter: Equipped with ATC, pH tester can accurately determine pH value of the sample at any temperature in a range of 0 - 60°C (32 - 140°F). No more care about the temperature of test liquid
  • Easy operation & high accuracy: No need paper strips or other inaccurate pH test chemicals, this digital pH test pen will allow you to test your liquid quickly and accurately within 0. 01 pH with the sensitive electrode sensor
  • Package includes: 1*pH Meter, 2*pH Buffer Powder, 1*Manual, 2*1. 5V LR44 button cell (built-in); buffer powder can be used to calibrate the pH tester
  • 3-in-1 soil tester: 1. Measures moisture content of soil to lets you know when to water; 2. Helps you determine if plant is getting adequate light; 3. Helps you control PH level in soil, acidic or alkaline of your plants
  • No battery or solar power: No batteries needed; no solar power needed. Just simply insert the meter in the soil area (Water soil before using soil tester) and wait for 10 mins

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