What distinguishes an analog meter from a digital meter?

The distinction between an analog meter and a digital meter primarily lies in how they present measurements, which is best captured by the presence of an analog scale versus a digital readout. An analog meter uses a needle that physically moves across a graduated scale to indicate the measurement, relying on the position of the needle against a linear scale to convey data. This method provides a visual representation of measurements that can be easier to interpret at a glance, particularly for experienced users.

In contrast, a digital meter displays measurements in numeric form on a screen, providing a direct and often clearer representation of the value being measured. Digital meters also generally offer advantages such as higher accuracy and the ability to capture readings more quickly and easily, especially in environments where precise measurements are critical.

While analog meters can measure both AC and DC voltage, this feature is not exclusive to them, as many digital meters are capable of doing the same. The requirement for batteries or the comparison of accuracy between the two types does not encapsulate the fundamental difference between them. The defining trait is specifically how the measurement is exhibited to the user.