Potential difference, current and resistance are three primary parameters that are associated with any electronic or electrical circuit. All three parameters can be quantitatively measured using suitable instruments. A voltmeter is an electrical instrument used to measure potential difference between two points in an electrical or electronic circuit. Current can be measured by ammeter, while resistance can be calculated mathematically from known voltage and current or it can be measured directly with the help of either diode or multimeter.

In fact, a multimeter can directly measure all of the above three properties. Therefore, a multimeter is one electrical instrument that can directly measure potential difference, current as well as resistance of an electric circuit. Some multimeters can also measure few other parameters link frequency, capacitance, inductance, humidity, etc. Similarities and differences between voltmeter and multimeter are discussed in the following sections.

Similarities between voltmeter and multimeter

• Both voltmeter and multimeter are electrical instruments and thus can work only in presence of electricity in a circuit.
• Both the instruments can measure potential difference between two points in an electric circuit in volt or millivolt unit.
• Both of them has analog and digital version.

Differences between voltmeter and multimeter

Voltmeter	Multimeter
Voltmeter can measure only potential difference between two points in an electrical circuit.	Multimeter is a multi-purpose instrument that can directly measure various parameters like potential difference, current, resistance, frequency, capacitance, etc.
To measure resistance of a circuit, an ammeter is also required along with voltmeter.	Multimeter can directly measure resistance of a circuit. So no need to use a separate ammeter for this.
It is generally not used to test diodes or transistors.	Multimeter can be used to test diodes and transistors.
Voltmeter cannot substitute multimeter.	A multimeter can substitute voltmeter.
Voltmeters are comparatively cheaper.	Multimeters are costlier as they consist of multiple parts for measuring various parameters.
Area of application of voltmeter is narrow.	Multimeters have a wide area of applications for its capability to perform multifarious functions.