10 Best Soil pH Testers review

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Written By Tahmid

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Are you looking for the Best soil pH tester? You are in the right place.

Soil Is the most important thing for every plant, they depend on it for their necessary nutrients and growth. However, The availability of essential nutrients is often influenced by the soil pH and slows down their growth. To get satisfactory growth for most horticultural crops you should keep the soil pH between 6 (slightly acidic) and 7.5 (slightly alkaline).In this blog, I reviewed the 10 Best soil pH testers so that you can easily determine the soil pH of your garden and then I have given some tips on how to fix the soil imbalance of your garden.

10 Best Soil pH Testers

APERA INSTRUMENTS AI209 Value Series PH20 Waterproof pH Tester

Best soil pH meter

This is the most reliable pocket pH tester with the best value for general-purpose pH testing e.g. hydroponics, horticulture, pools and spas, water treatment, beverage making, education, environmental monitoring, etc. Up to 3 points of Auto. calibration and 0 to 50˚C Auto temperature compensation (ATC), 0. 1 pH Accuracy with 0 to 14. 0 pH measuring range; Auto. Up to 2000 hours’ operation powered by AAA alkaline batteries.

Specifications
Model numberPH20
Product Dimensions7.01 x 1.61 x 1.18 inches; 3.9 ounces
ManufacturerApera Instruments
Batteries4 AAA batteries are required. (included)
Country of OriginChina

Pros

  • Up to 2000 hours of continuous operation.
  • Auto-recognition of stable values.
  • IP67 water-resistant.

Cons

  • Depends On battery
  • Costly than other ph testers

Luster Leaf 1602 Soil Kit

Best soil ph tester kit

The Luster Leaf 1602 Soil Kit is a complete testing package for knowing the nutrition level of soil such as pH, nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium. Those are essential elements for plant growth. This a very easy and cost-effective soil composition monitoring tool.

Specifications
Model number1602
Product Dimensions1.3 x 10.2 x 4.3 inches, 4.2 ounces
ManufacturerLuster Leaf
BatteriesNo batteries are required.
Country of OriginUSA

Pros

  • Very Easy to Use.
  • 5 test kits for each pH, N, P, and K.
  • 450+ plants soil pH preference list included.

Cons

  • Must have expertise or familiarity with color charts.
  • Insufficient for large-scale agricultural operations.
  • Results may vary depending on user technique and environmental factors.

Sonkir MS02 3-in-1 Soil Moisture/Light/pH Tester

Simple 3-in-1 pH meter

The Sonkir MS02 3-in-1 Soil Moisture/Light/pH Tester is a multifunctional tool. This is a Three-in-one tool. It can measure soil moisture, light intensity, and pH levels. The device has probes that are inserted into the soil and provide readings through an indicator. It’s a very convenient tool for both beginners and professional gardeners.

Specifications
Model numberMS02
Product Dimensions11.5 x 2 x 1.5 inches, 2.89 ounces
ManufacturerSonkir
BatteriesNo batteries are required
Country of OriginChina

Pros

  • 3-in-1 functionality
  • No batteries needed
  • Sturdy and scientific design.

Cons

  • Have to wait 10 minutes Check moisture/pH/light level in the dial.
  • Have to wipe and clean the probe after each use.
  • Hard soil May damage the probe.

SZHLUX Soil Gardening Tools 3-in-1 Moisture Meter Light & PH Tester

Easy-to-use pH meter

SZHLUX Soil Gardening Tools 3-in-1 Moisture Meter Light & PH Tester is a multifunctional device for soil. It’s Very easy to use and also portable. It is made with quality materials for long-lasting performance.

Specifications
Model number
Product Dimensions11.39 x 2 x 1.4 inches, 3.27 ounces
ManufacturerSZHLUX
BatteriesNo batteries are required
Country of OriginChina

Pros

  • Multiple functions in one device
  • Double-needle Detection Technology strongly enhances speed and accuracy.
  • Suitable for both amateurs and experts.

Cons

  • Can’t use it to test very hard soil.
  • Leaving this in the soil for a long time may cause damage.
  • This Product is not waterproof.

iPower 3-in-1 Moisture/pH/Light Meter Soil Test kit

Durable pH meter

iPower 3-in-1 Soil Moisture/pH/Light Meter, Soil Test Kit for Indoor & Outdoor Use, Suitable for House Plants, Garden, Lawn, and Farm. It runs without batteries. This a very lightweight device and easy to operate.

Specifications
Model number3-in-1 Soil Moisture/pH/Light Meter
Product Dimensions12.8 x 4.09 x 1.57 inches, 3.2 ounces
ManufactureriPower
BatteriesNo need
Country of OriginChina

Pros

  • No battery is needed.
  • Suitable for indoor and outdoor uses.
  • You can switch modes with one button.

Cons

  • Need to keep the probe clean and dry.
  • Use the dial to show the result.
  • The PH Range: 3.5-8

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

Accurate pH tester

Luster Leaf 1818 Measure four soil indicators at once with this 4-in-1 meter. You can Prevent scorching, overwatering, and fertilizing 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 are required for operation.

Specifications
Model number1818
Product Dimensions1 x 1 x 1 inches, 3.68 ounces
ManufacturerLuster Leaf
BatteriesNo need
Country of OriginZimbabwe

Pros

  • No battery is needed.
  • Not much complicated.
  • Gives almost instant readings.

Cons

  • Probes may need regular cleaning.
  • Unable to use on hard soil.
  • Uses Dial and light to show readings.

Luster Leaf Fertility and Temperature Rapitest 1835 Digital 3-Way Analyzer for Soil pH

Electronic soil pH tester

The 3-way Digital Soil Analyzer from Rapitest allows for simple, accurate soil testing for your garden. Soil pH can be tested to make sure your soil has the right pH balance for your plants. The full pH plant list included 450+ plants from Rapitest.

Specifications
Model number1835
Product Dimensions12 x 7 x 2 inches, 6.4 ounces
ManufacturerLuster Leaf
BatteriesNeeded
Country of OriginUSA

Pros

  • Modern digital output.
  • Has a corded probe.
  • Quick reading output.

Cons

  • Can’t run without batteries.
  • No mentions of water resistance.
  • Plastic body.

Luster Leaf 716750 1840, Soil pH Meter

Garden soil pH meter

The Luster Leaf 1840 Soil pH Meter is a specialized tool used to measure the pH of soil with accurate precision. It typically features a probe that is inserted into the soil, and the pH level is displayed on the device’s screen. This allows gardeners to be aware of the pH of their soil.


Specifications
Model number716750
Product Dimensions1.9 x 5.3 x 11.5 inches, 4 ounces
ManufacturerLuster Leaf
BatteriesNeeded
Country of OriginUSA

Pros

  • Quick Results on Display.
  • Compact, portable, and easy to use.
  • Provides precise pH measurements.

Cons

  • Depends on batteries.
  • The probe may need regular cleaning.
  • No mentions of water resistance.

Luster Leaf Products 1663 80 Professional Soil Test Kit 3.9Luster Leaf 1845 Digital Soil Ph Meter

Professional soil pH tester

The Luster Leaf Products 1663 80 Professional Soil Test Kit from Environmental Concepts is a liquid-based testing kit that is great for hobbyists, classrooms, and professionals. It contains all the components needed for a total of 80 tests. 20 each for soil pH, Nitrogen, Phosphorus, and Potash.


Specifications
Model number1663
Product Dimensions8.25 x 1.25 x 9 inches, 15.2 ounces
ManufacturerLuster Leaf
BatteriesNo Need
Country of OriginTaiwan

Pros

  • Contains components for 80 tests.
  • Comes with a sturdy plastic case.
  • Detailed instructions are included.

Cons

  • It May be complicated for amateurs.
  • The accurate result depends on the perfect operation.
  • A little bit more difficult to use than a digital pH tester.

Luster Leaf 1845 Digital Soil Ph Meter

Best digital soil pH tester

Luster Leaf 1845 is a digital soil pH meter. It has a digital display to show pH readings. This device can instantly measure the pH. This is a very small and compact device.


Specifications
Model number1845
Product Dimensions5 x 2 x 14 inches, 2.82 ounces
ManufacturerLuster Leaf
BatteriesNeeded
Country of OriginChina

Pros

  • Lightweight and Easy to Use
  • Provide reading on digital display.
  • Instant pH measuring.

Cons

  • Depends On batteries.
  • It can Measure pH from 3.5 to 9.0.
  • No mentions of water resistance.

Quick Guide: How to find the Best soil pH tester

The Best soil pH meter depends on your specific needs, budget, features, preferences, etc. Here are the parameters you should check before buying a soil pH tester.

Accuracy:  In the matter of precise pH reading the digital soil pH meters are one step ahead of the analog meters. Digital pH meters are well known for their accuracy. You have to consider the pH range that the meter can measure and ensure the pH range covers the spectrum relevant to your garden needs.

Usability: If you are a beginner then look for simple pH meters which have user-friendly interfaces. The probe meters are very easy to use doesn’t need much maintenance. And if you are an expert gardener then you can go for a professional pH testing set.

Durability: Choose a pH meter based on your place of use. For indoor use, the normal pH meters can be durable enough for a long time But If you want to use your pH meter both Indoor and outdoors you should look for features such as water-resistant, Building material, etc.

Features: There are available devices that can measure both moisture, light, and pH. That depends on your gardening requirements and whether you need extra features.

Budget: You should fix your budget based on your gardening needs and affordability. Try to balance the cost with quality, You also can invest in a higher quality meter which may save you money in the long term by providing accurate and precise readings and durability.

Brand: Always try to buy products from well-known brands. You should do a short brand research and also check the reviews of customers of this product. For the last step check the warranty and customer support from the manufacturer. 

If You can follow those steps correctly you can narrow down your options and able to find a value-for-money soil pH tester that fulfills your preference and garden needs.

ImageProductRatingPrice
APERA INSTRUMENTS AI209 Value Series PH20

4.5
Luster Leaf 1602 Soil Kit

4.2
Sonkir MS02 3-in-1 Soil Moisture/
Light/pH Tester

4.1
SZHLUX Soil Gardening Tools 3-in-1 Moisture Meter Light & PH Tester

4.1
iPower 3-in-1 Moisture/pH/Light Meter Soil Test kit

4.0
Luster Leaf 1818 Rapitest 4-in1 Soil pH/Moisture/Fertility/Light Tester

4.0
Luster Leaf Fertility and Temperature Rapitest 1835 Digital 3-Way Analyzer for Soil pH

4.0
Luster Leaf 716750 1840, Soil pH Meter

3.9
Luster Leaf Products 1663 80 Professional Soil Test Kit

3.9
Luster Leaf 1845 Digital Soil Ph Meter

3.5

FAQ

1. what is the best soil pH tester?

The Best soil pH meter depends on your specific needs, budget, features, preferences, etc.

2. How to use a soil pH tester?

Here are the steps to test soil pH with a soil pH meter

Step 01: Prepare Your Soil Sample

Step 02:Prepare the Soil pH Tester

Step03: Insert the Tester into the Soil

Step 04: Take the Reading

Step 05: Repeat if Necessary

Step 06: Interpret the Results

Step 07: Clean and Store the Tester

3. what is the best pH tester for soil?

There are lots of options available in the market but here are the best pH testers for soil

  • APERA INSTRUMENTS AI209 Value Series PH20 Waterproof pH Tester
  • Luster Leaf 1602 Soil Kit
  • Sonkir MS02 3-in-1 Soil Moisture/Light/pH Tester
  • SZHLUX Soil Gardening Tools 3-in-1 Moisture Meter Light & PH Tester
  • iPower 3-in-1 Moisture/pH/Light Meter Soil Test kit 
  • Luster Leaf 1818 Rapitest 4-in1 Soil pH/Moisture/Fertility/Light Tester
  • Luster Leaf Fertility and Temperature Rapitest 1835 Digital 3-Way Analyzer for Soil pH
  • Luster Leaf 716750 1840, Soil pH Meter
  • Luster Leaf Products 1663 80 Professional Soil Test Kit
  • Luster Leaf 1845 Digital Soil Ph Meter

4. what store has a pH soil tester?

You can typically find soil pH testers at various types of stores. Here is the list of stores where you can buy soil pH testers.

  • Garden Centers/Nurseries
  • Hardware Stores
  • Home Improvement Stores
  • Online Retailers (Amazon,eBay, Walmart)
  • Specialty Agricultural Stores

5. which pH soil tester works best?

APERA INSTRUMENTS AI209 Value Series PH20 Waterproof pH Tester works best both indoors and outdoors accurately

6. How to test the pH of soil without a tester? 

You can test the soil pH using a few household items and procedures. We’ll test the soil pH using vinegar and baking soda.

List of materials :

  • Soil samples from various areas
  • Distilled water
  • Vinegar
  • Baking soda
  • Two clean containers
  • Stirring utensil

Here are the Steps:

  1. Collect Soil Samples: First, you have to collect and Gather soil samples of different areas and various depths from your garden.
  1. Prepare Soil Slurry: After collecting the samples of soil you need to prepare a slurry of soil. Mix the soil and water in approximately 1:1 or 1:2 ratio in one container and mix them well until they turn into a slurry.
  1. Vinegar Test: In This step add a small amount of vinegar into the soil slurry and mix them. Now If the mixture creates fizzes or bubbles that indicates the soil is alkaline (pH greater than 7).
  1. Baking Soda Test: For this test, you have to create a new soil slurry using the collected soil sample and water. Then add about a tablespoon of baking soda to the slurry. If the mixture fizzes or bubbles, it indicates that the soil is acidic (pH less than 7).
  1. Results: Based on these two tests you can easily estimate whether your soil is acidic, neutral, or alkaline. If both tests don’t create any reaction then the soil may be close to a neutral pH
  1. Actions: soil pH balance is very important for plants. You should take appropriate actions to keep the pH suitable for your garden. If your soil is too acidic, you may add lime to raise the pH, and if it is too alkaline, you may add sulfur to lower the pH in your garden.

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