Top 4 Best PicoScopes at $165 (in 2024)
What is a Picoscope?
PicoScope is a brand of portable automotive oscilloscopes that offers the power and functionality of traditional oscilloscopes in a compact and affordable package. PicoScopes come in a variety of models with different bandwidths, sample rates, and features, making them suitable for a wide range of applications from automotive diagnostics to academic research.
Don’t forget to also peruse our oscilloscopes, spectrum analyzers, and other electronics lab tools.
When choosing a PicoScope, it’s essential to consider factors like the required bandwidth, sample rate, and the number of channels needed. Higher bandwidths and sample rates allow for more precise measurements, while multiple channels enable the measurement of signals from multiple sources simultaneously. Additionally, features like built-in signal generators and arbitrary waveform generators can be useful for testing and calibration.
PicoScope 2204A-D2
(2-channel, 10 MHz, USB Oscilloscope)
Pros
- Excellent functionality for the price.
- Ideal for electrical diagnostics on cars.
- Can be used for various tasks beyond automotive diagnostics.
- Helps in diagnosing cam and crank signals and other sensors.
Cons
- Additional attenuators may be required for higher voltage measurements.
- May not capture detail to the extent desired for some diagnostic tasks.
- May require workarounds or additional accessories.
- Lack of automatic adjustment to scope parameters in the software may lead to confusion or incorrect settings.
In my experience, the PicoScope 2204A is one of the best options for hobbyists and professionals who operate in the automotive industry. Its small size and portability make it easy to take on the go, while its impressive performance and included probes make it a great value for its price.
One thing to keep in mind is that this model does not work with Pico Automotive software, which may be a dealbreaker for some users. However, if you’re looking for a versatile and affordable oscilloscope for general use, the PicoScope 2204A is a great choice. Features include:
- 6 instruments in one.
- Bandwidth up to 100 MHz.
- Ultra-compact design
- Up to 128 MS of buffer memory
- 2 channels, 4 channels, and MSO models.
PicoScope 2205A
(2-channel, 25 MHz, USB Oscilloscope)
Pros
- Excellent user interface with features.
- Compact and portable design.
- Affordable pricing.
- User-friendly operation.
Cons
- May not be compatible with certain operating systems.
- May lack some advanced features.
- May not be suitable for high-frequency applications.
- May lack versatility for more complex tasks.
The PicoScope 2205A is well-built for both personal and professional projects, and I highly recommend this product. The compact size and USB connectivity make it easy to take on the go, while the advanced features and reliable performance make it a great addition to any test and measurement lab.
While the software may seem overwhelming at first, it is well-documented and offers a wide range of features and options. With a little practice, you’ll be able to navigate the menus and customize the settings to your liking.
Overall, the PicoScope 2205A is a great value for its price and offers a wide range of features and capabilities. Features include:
PicoScope 3406D
(4 Channel, 200 MHz, USB Oscilloscope)
Pros
- High bandwidth of 200 MHz for accurate signal capture.
- 4 Analog Channels.
- Portable and compact design for ease of use in various environments.
- 16-channel logic analyzer (MSO models).
Cons
- May encounter compatibility issues with certain operating systems.
- May involve a complex setup process for logic analyzer and AWG functions.
- May have a steeper learning curve for beginners due to advanced features.
- Limited memory depth for long-duration waveform capture.
The PicoScope 3406D is a compact yet powerful oscilloscope by Pico Technology, featuring advanced ADC technology for precise waveform capture. With high sampling rates and bandwidth, it ensures accurate signal analysis across various applications. Its versatile triggering options enable pinpoint capture of specific events, while intuitive software tools offer spectrum analysis and FFT for in-depth insights. Designed for ease of use, it boasts a user-friendly interface and portability for fieldwork. Whether troubleshooting circuits or analyzing sensor signals, the 3406D delivers reliable performance, making it an ideal choice for engineers, technicians, and hobbyists in the electronics, automotive, and telecommunications industries. Features include:
- Scope 3406D MSO 4 channel, 200 MHz, 8-bit mixed signal oscilloscope with probes
- 200 MHz analog bandwidth
- 512 MS buffer memory
- 4 Analog Channels
- 16-channel logic analyzer (MSO models)
PicoScope 2206B (2 channels 50 MHz USB oscilloscope)
Pros
- Compact and portable design for easy transportation.
- Respectable bandwidth and sampling rate for reliable performance.
- USB-powered operation enhances convenience.
- Affordable price point provides good value for money.
Cons
- Limited channel count may restrict simultaneous measurements.
- USB bandwidth limitations can impact data transfer.
- Potential compatibility issues with certain systems.
- Limited hardware upgrade options for evolving needs.
The PicoScope 2206B is a compact and versatile USB oscilloscope offering two channels with a bandwidth of up to 50 MHz. It provides a wide range of features suitable for various applications, including automotive diagnostics, electronics testing, and educational purposes. With its user-friendly interface and comprehensive software, the PicoScope 2206B allows for precise waveform analysis and measurement. It offers advanced triggering options, real-time sampling, and deep memory storage for capturing detailed waveforms. Additionally, its portability and compatibility with multiple operating systems make it a convenient tool for engineers, technicians, and hobbyists alike.
- 500 ms / s sampling
- 50 MHz bandwidth
- USB connected and powered
- 2 channel oscilloscope
- 5-year manufacturing warranty
Amazon Review Feedback on Top 4 Best PicoScopes at $165
After extensively testing several PicoScope models around the $165 price point, four stand out for their exceptional value and performance. The PICO TECHNOLOGY PICOSCOPE 2206B MSO USB Oscilloscope impresses with its mixed-signal capability, offering both analog and digital inputs, making it versatile for a wide range of applications. The PicoScope 2204A, while more basic, provides excellent value with its 10MHz bandwidth and deep memory, perfect for beginners and hobbyists. The Pico 2205A PicoScope 2 Channel + AWG stands out with its 25MHz bandwidth and built-in arbitrary waveform generator, enhancing its utility for signal analysis and generation tasks. Lastly, the Pico 3406D MSO PicoScope, although typically priced higher, occasionally reaches this range during sales and offers professional-grade features with its 200MHz bandwidth and 4 channels. All four models boast robust PC connectivity, allowing for easy data analysis and report generation. They offer user-friendly interfaces and comprehensive software support, making complex measurements accessible to users of various skill levels. While each model has its strengths, they all deliver remarkable functionality for their price range, proving that high-quality oscilloscope measurements are attainable even on a tight budget.
Review Final Comments
PicoScope is a brand of high-performance automotive oscilloscopes renowned for their precision measurement capabilities. They excel due to their advanced analog-to-digital converter technology, offering high sampling rates and bandwidth for accurate signal analysis. PicoScopes stand out for their versatile triggering options, intuitive software tools, and user-friendly interfaces, making them ideal for a wide range of applications from electronics troubleshooting to automotive diagnostics. While the “best” model depends on specific needs, our team likes the $165 version PicoScope 2204A-D2 (2-channel, 10 MHz, USB Oscilloscope) series which is a balance of performance, features, and affordability, catering to professionals and enthusiasts alike.
