15 Best Soil pH Testers
A soil pH tester is an essential tool which removes the guesswork from your gardening tasks by providing specific data about soil condition.
If you want thriving flowers, vegetables, and herbs, or if you want to make sure your plants have everything they need? You might need to buy one as soon as possible.
This tool is suitable for amateur and professional growers and will not let you down once you get used to it.
Let’s look into some soil pH testers brands I present below and find the best product for your beloved garden.
Why Is Soil pH So Important?
Soil pH is a measure of the alkaline and acidic value of the soil. The pH might range from 0 to 14.
The soil pH less than 7 means the soil is acidic (sour), while the soil pH more than 7 means the soil is alkaline (sweet).
The soil pH is important because it will tell you about the availability of nutrition in the soil. With this understanding, you can make the best decision when it comes to growing suitable types of plants.
The soil pH might also determine which nutrients the plants need so that you can choose the right kind of fertilizer that supports growth and saves you extra money.
Types of Soil pH Tester
Chemical
With chemical testers, you might need to take a small amount of soil and put it in a vial, add the provided capsule then add water. Shake it well, then do a color match with the provided color chart to find the corresponding soil pH.
With a chemical soil test kit, there is a limited number of capsules. Therefore, you might have less than 20 tests per product.
Analog
An analog soil tester is constructed with two to three metal probes to test soil pH. When inserting the probes into the ground, an electrical current is triggered, and results will be displayed on the meter.
Some analog models can give you information about sunlight and moisture. With this kind of soil tester, you might need to clean the probes after use and don’t keep it in the soil for more than 10 minutes.
Digital
Much the same as analog soil testers, digital soil tester also features probes to measure pH level. However, this type of soil tester comes with a digital display screen, which allows you to get more accurate readings.
What Are The Best Soil pH Testers?
The best soil pH testers can help your indoor, and outdoor plants grow healthily and vibrantly. When looking for the best soil pH testers, pay attention to Sonkir, Luster Leaf, or Bluelab.
They’re known for their quality, versatility and easy-to-use. Let’s spend time studying some of their top soil pH testers as follows.
- Best Overall: Sonkir MS02 3-in-1 Gardening Tool Kits Soil pH Tester
“Toggle operation with 3 modes: pH, moisture, light, double-needle detection technology, battery-free.” - Best Budget: Luster Leaf 1612 Rapitest pH Soil Tester
“Ideal for beginners, offers 10 pH tests, comes with pH preference list of various plants.” - Best Hybrid: Luster Leaf 1605 Rapitest Digital pH Soil Tester
“A combination of both digital and chemical testing, easy to follow interface, delivers lab-tested results.” - Best Analog: Atree 3-in-1 Indoor & Outdoor Soil pH Tester
“Lightweight and portable, wide spectrum of measurements and simple to use.” - Best Digital: Luster Leaf 1845 Brown Digital Soil pH Tester
“Made in the USA, features a digital display screen, easy to read, shows pH level from 0 to 9.9.” - Best Strips: Garden Tutor Strips Kit 3.5-9 Range Soil pH Tester
“Conventional way to test pH soil, includes 100 test strips with detailed instruction and a reference book. “ - Best for Farming: Hackerdom 3-in-1 Soil pH Tester
“Two metal probes with wide readout screen, produces reliable and quick data for proper adjustment in farming.” - Best for Lawn: Swiser Indoor/Outdoor Plants Tools Soil pH Tester
“Durable, comfortable to use, easy to carry around for supporting lawn maintenance.” - Best Lab-grade: Bluelab BLU2216 Pen Soil pH Tester
“Cool and compact design, well-made item for pH and temperature, displays as precisely as ± 0.1 pH.” - Best Versatile: Yoyomax 3-in-1 Kit Soil pH Tester
“Designed for any soil condition with humanized construction, 3-in-1 soil tester, simple operation.”
Comparison Chart of Best Soil pH Testers in 2023
The following chart features 15 premium soil pH testers. Let’s see them side by side so that you can quickly compare their main traits and make a wise choice.
Top 15 Best Soil pH Testers Reviews 2023
It’s time to examine the pros and cons of 15 best soil pH tester products. In this section, I ask for your patience to read carefully so that you can gain enough information to decide wisely.
1. Sonkir MS02 3-in-1 Gardening Tool Kits Soil pH Tester
(Best Overall)
Sonkir MS02 3-in-1 offers 3 functions in 1 device. With this convenient tester, you can be well-aware of soil moisture, pH value, and sunshine level.
This way, it removes quite a lot of guesswork from your gardening tasks and ensures you achieve expected results.
This soil tester contains two probes: one for pH sensor, one for moisture sensor. Double-needle detection technology supports more accurate and quicker outcomes.
The readout scale allows you to get exact specs of moisture, pH, and light. It can be used for both indoor and outdoor gardens. Also, it’s made lightweight and portable.
Key features:
- A 3-in-1 soil tester
- Toggle operation with 3 modes
- Clear readout
- Double-needle Detection Technology
- No battery required
- 12-month Warranty
Pros
- Well-known brand
- Simple to use
- Quick to generate results
- Portable
Cons
- It might appear a bit fragile, so you need to handle it with care
Product Specifications
| Brand | Sonkir |
| Number of probes | 2 |
| Probe length | 7.9 inches |
| Probe Material | Copper and aluminum |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/Light/Moisture |
Let’s try to measure the soil pH with Sonkir MS02 here:
2. Luster Leaf 1612 Rapitest pH Soil Tester
(Best Budget)
Luster Leaf 1612 is an ideal product for beginners looking for a budget-friendly yet straightforward soil tester.
This chemical tester appears very simple. All you need to do is take a soil sample, dilute it with water, add powder from the capsule and wait. The color comparator enables you to see the results without a doubt.
It’s made in the USA and is designed for about ten tests. There is an included step-by-step instruction so that everyone can learn how to use it. It also offers soil pH preference for more than 450 plants.
Key features:
- Chemical soil pH tester
- Made in the USA
- Offer 10 tests
- Clear color comparator
- Include detailed instruction
- pH preference list of various plants
Pros
- Low-cost option
- Easy to follow
- Deliver high accuracy
- Fast results in several minutes
Cons
- The tube might be a bit small so that it might take time for you to fill it properly
Product Specifications
| Brand | Luster Leaf |
| Number of probes | – |
| Probe length | – |
| Probe Material | – |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 4.5-7.5pH |
| Benefits | pH |
Watch this video for more information about the product:
3. Luster Leaf 1605 Rapitest Digital pH Soil Tester
(Best Hybrid)
Luster Leaf 1605 Rapitest is a combination of both digital and chemical testing. To be clear, it delivers pH level through an LED indicator while generates N-P-K through a chemical reaction.
If you find yourself confusing when reading pH with a color code chart, this measurement unit might be a great alternative option.
The reading interface is relatively easy to navigate. To get the reading, you put the soil sample tube into the optical chamber and press the button.
There are 25 capsules for 25 tests, including ten capsules for pH, every five capsules for Nitrogen, Phosphorus and Potash measurements.
Key features:
- Provides pH, N-P-K testing
- Perform both digital and chemical testing
- Easy to follow interface
- Includes a testing tube, an optical chamber, 25 capsules
Pros
- Trusted brand
- Ideal for beginners
- Wide range of reading
- Seems to be as accurate as lab-tested results
Cons
- Only includes 10 pH tests
Product Specifications
| Brand | Luster Leaf |
| Number of probes | – |
| Probe length | – |
| Probe Material | – |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 4.5-7.5pH |
| Benefits | pH/N-P-K |
Click to see digital Rapitest soil test kit vs lab test result here:
4. Atree 3-in-1 Indoor & Outdoor Soil pH Tester
(Best Analog)
Atree 3-in-1 offers you a convenient solution to measure soil pH, moisture, and light. This lightweight unit allows you to take it whenever you need to assess the soil quality, both indoors and outdoors.
This analog device generates results through the dial with two sensor 6.7-inch metal needles. After sticking 2/3 of the probe length into the soil, you will need to wait for about 10 minutes before getting your reading. It’s not for testing water as well as liquids.
It has a broad spectrum of measurements: pH level (3.5-8), light intensity (0-2000 lux), and moisture level (1-10) so that it provides you with detailed information about your soil condition. This way, you can make necessary adjustments as soon as possible for the sake of your plants.
Key features:
- 3-in-1 soil pH tester
- Double metal probes
- Get results after 10 minutes
- Multi-color
- Operated without any power source
- Great for indoor and outdoor
Pros
- Easy for carrying around
- Wide spectrum of measurements
- Simple to use
- Versatile
Cons
- The meter is relatively small, so it’s not so easy for you to read
Product Specifications
| Brand | Atree |
| Number of probes | 2 |
| Probe length | 6.7 inches |
| Probe Material | Copper and aluminum |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/Light/Moisture |
5. Luster Leaf 1845 Brown Digital Soil pH Tester
(Best Digital)
Luster Leaf 1845 features a digital display screen that shows you the result instantly. Plus, you won’t be limited by the number of tests like other chemical testing tools. It seems to be more straightforward for you to read the final digits.
It has a compact and attractive design with brown color. It’s constructed with one long metal probe, which will be inserted into the soil to read pH level.
The readout screen will show from 0-9.9, which is compatible with the soil’s pH level you want to measure. Once you know about your soil, Luster Leaf offers you extra information about what you should do with the outcome you have so that your trees can benefit most.
Key features:
- Made in the USA
- Includes one metal probe
- The simple, digital readout screen
- Brown color
- Batteries included
Pros
- Hassle-free usage
- Includes a pH guide
- Covers pH level from 0 to 9.9
- Easy to read the result
Cons
- The batteries might be a bit pricey if you’re going to buy them separately
Product Specifications
| Brand | Luster Leaf |
| Number of probes | 1 |
| Probe length | Not specific |
| Probe Material | Stainless steel |
| Power Source | Battery |
| Soil PH measuring range | 0-9.9pH |
| Benefits | pH |
6. Garden Tutor Strips Kit 3.5-9 Range Soil pH Tester
(Best Strips)
If you prefer a more traditional way to test pH soil, Garden Tutor Strips Kit might be your favorite product.
It contains 100 test strips so that you can use it for quite a long time. It’s simple for storage and has no trouble maintaining good condition because it’s kept in a plastic jar.
You should follow the step-by-step instruction carefully to get the most accurate results. It also provides a 16-page full-color reference book for various types of plants so that you can learn and improve your garden significantly.
Key features:
- 100 test stripes
- Packed in a plastic jar
- 16-page planting reference handbook
- Designed for pH testing
Pros
- Accurate and fast
- Easy for storage
- Long-lasting usage
- Offers extra valuable information for gardeners
Cons
- It might take a little bit of time before you’re getting used to it
Product Specifications
| Brand | Garden Tutor |
| Number of probes | – |
| Probe length | – |
| Probe Material | – |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-9pH |
| Benefits | pH |
7. Hackerdom 3-in-1 Soil pH Tester
(Best for Farming)
Hackerdom 3-in-1 soil pH tester allows you to get precise information about your soil condition. From that point of view, you can add the right amount of nutrition and water to support the growth of vegetables, flowers, fruits, and herbs. As a result, it’s essential to farming activities.
It features two metal probes, 5.34-inch in length, a readout screen with 1.74-inch in width. This product works wonders when it comes to pH level, moisture level, and sunshine value.
It comes with a detailed troubleshooting list, which will help people who are new to this measurement tool.
Key features:
- 3-in-1 soil pH tester
- Contains two metal probes
- The 1.74-inch wide readout screen
- Battery-free
Pros
- Produces reliable data
- Easy to transport
- Brings instant results (in 10 seconds)
Cons
- The product might not be intended to use in hard soil or all liquids
Product Specifications
| Brand | Hackerdom |
| Number of probes | 2 |
| Probe length | 5.34 inches |
| Probe Material | – |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/moisture/light |
8. Swiser Indoor/Outdoor Plants Tools Soil pH Tester
(Best for Lawn)
Swiser soil pH tester is always my go-to product because I like its large meter screen. As such, it still provides a clear view for users.
This device is versatile for both indoor and outdoor plants. For me, it’s a reliable measurement tool for my lawn.
All you need to do is switch to the data you want to measure: moisture, pH, or light. Then, you press the tester into the soil up to 2/3 of the length of the probe. Remember to adjust the position of probes until the pointer moves.
There is no need for a power source, so you don’t have to worry about running out of battery. Moreover, it’s transportable, so you can carry it around to test any place on your lawn.
Key features:
- Large screen
- Test for pH, moisture and light
- Contains aluminum and copper probes
- Indoor and outdoor plants
Pros
- Comfortable to use
- Easy to read
- High-quality material
- Versatile
Cons
- Not designed for testing water
Product Specifications
| Brand | Swiser |
| Number of probes | 2 |
| Probe length | 6.9 inches |
| Probe Material | Copper and aluminum |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/moisture/light |
9. Bluelab BLU2216 Pen Soil pH Tester
(Best Lab-grade)
Bluelab BLU2216 features lab-grade quality, which works well with growing, hydroponics, brewing, drinking water, and more. As such, it’s quite widely applicable.
It has a cool design that appears compact and handy so that you can put it in your bag and carry it around to specific testing sites. The backlit screen allows you to see the result more efficiently.
This high-quality item can measure pH and temperature just by inserting the lab-quality glass probe into the soil. The probe is covered carefully and acts as a dibber to quickly approach the root zone.
Key features:
- Made in New Zealand
- Displays as precisely as ± 0.1 pH
- Backlit LCD screen
- Fully waterproof
- Run by battery
- 1-Year Limited Warranty
Pros
- Well-designed and durable
- Easy calibration
- High accuracy
- Widely applicable
Cons
- It might be a bit pricey
Product Specifications
| Brand | Bluelab |
| Number of probes | 1 |
| Probe length | Not specific |
| Probe Material | Lab-quality glass |
| Power Source | 1 x AAA alkaline battery |
| Soil PH measuring range | 0-14pH |
| Benefits | pH/temperature |
Don’t skip this video if you are interested in this BLUELAB combo:
10. Gain Express 295mm Long Electrode Soil pH Tester
Gain Express is excellent for commercial use (orchard, field production, vineyard) and home use (lawn, houseplants, and container fruits).
Featuring a 295-mm metal electrode, this product is known for its accuracy and reliability. It can provide you instant soil pH values (ranging from 3-8) and moisture (ranging from 1-8). Notably, it can measure as accurately as ± 0.2 pH.
This product can handle different soil types and operate outdoors and indoors at a temperature from 41-122 degrees F.
It’s well-designed and durable, so it might stay with you for quite a long time if you handle it with care.
Key features:
- 295-mm metal electrode
- Measures as accurately as ± 0.2 pH
- For commercial use and home use
- Used both indoor and outdoor
Pros
- Well-designed and durable
- High accuracy
- Able to handle different kinds of soil
- Trouble-free operation
Cons
- Its price is a little bit steep
Product Specifications
| Brand | Gain Express |
| Number of probe | 1 |
| Probe length | 295 mm |
| Probe Material | Metal |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/moisture |
11. Yoyomax 3-in-1 Kit Soil pH Tester
(Best Versatile)
Yoyomax 3-in-1 is designed to use in any soil condition as long as you know the right way to measure. The pointer will not move if the soil is too dry, so you need to water the ground first before inserting the soil tester.
It comes with Double-needle detection technology, which enables quick and precise outcomes so that you will soon gain a valuable understanding of nutrition in your soil.
The one-button operation allows anyone to approach it without a problem. All you need to do is switch between three options for pH, moisture, and light so that the dial window will display the compatible number.
Key features:
- A 3-in-1 soil tester
- One-button operation
- Double-needle detection technology
- Designed for any soil condition
Pros
- Quick and precise
- Humanized design
- Simple to function
- Multi-use
Cons
- It might be not as durable as expected
Product Specifications
| Brand | Yoyomax |
| Number of probes | 2 |
| Probe length | Not specific |
| Probe Material | Not specific |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/Light/Moisture |
12. HighLandy Moisture Light Soil pH Tester
HighLandy soil pH tester is good at analyzing the soil. It’s able to collect data on pH, moisture as well as sunshine.
That means this tool helps you take care of your home-based garden, orchards, lawn by soon noticing what nutrient is lacking and what nutrient is over-fertilizing.
It’s operated with two 5.34-inch probes and one readout screen. It runs without any power source so that you can save extra money for yourself.
It works wonders and delivers correct values every time you need it. As such, it will surely improve your gardening to a new level.
Key features:
- No power source needed
- Used to collect soil pH, moisture, and light
- Comes with two 5.34-inch probes, a readout screen
- Lightweight
Pros
- Delivers correct values
- User-friendly
- Simple yet efficient
- Easy to carry around
Cons
- You might need to clean the probe after use to keep it last longer
Product Specifications
| Brand | HighLandy |
| Number of probes | 2 |
| Probe length | 5.34 inches |
| Probe Material | Aluminum and copper |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/Light/Moisture |
13. Kensizer Digital Plant Thermometer Probe Soil pH Tester
Kensizer thermometer probe soil pH tester is an easy-to-use gardening tool that features double-needle detection for better results. It’s quick to respond and comes with quality assurance from the manufacturer.
This good-looking unit is equipped with a wide dial window so that it’s clear to read.
You can have detailed information about alkaline and acidic level, sunlight value, and humidity level. Therefore, you can enhance the quality of your plantation effectively.
It’s operated without a battery or any power source. As such, it’s environmental-friendly and economical.
Key features:
- A wide dial window
- 3-in-1 soil pH tester
- Battery-free
- Comes with quality assurance
Pros
- Easy to use
- Clear to read
- Quick to respond
- Environmentally-friendly and economical
Cons
- It might get broken if you don’t use it properly
Product Specifications
| Brand | Kensizer |
| Number of probes | 2 |
| Probe length | 7.9 inches |
| Probe Material | Not specific |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/Light/Moisture |
14. Covery 3 in 1 Easy Read Indicator Soil pH Tester
Covery is another option for soil measurement equipment that you can trust. It features longer metal probes compared to other models in the market. As such, it can get deeper into the soil and might generate more accurate values.
In terms of benefits, it tells you when to water your plants, how to position the pot, and what nutrients your plants need.
The best part? It comes with an 18-month warranty so that you can rest assured about its quality.
It would be best if you cleaned the probe after taking it out from the soil so that you can extend its life’s use.
Key features:
- 1-inch aluminum and copper probes
- Indoor and outdoor use
- 18-month warranty
- Measures pH, light, and moisture
- No battery required
Pros
- Easy to read indicator
- Long probes for extra accuracy
- Simple to use
Cons
- It might take more than 10 minutes to get the results
Product Specifications
| Brand | Covery |
| Number of probes | 2 |
| Probe length | 7.1 inches |
| Probe Material | Aluminum and copper |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/Light/Moisture |
Let’s see how it works here.
15. PentaBeauty Three-way Soil pH Tester
PentaBeauty Three-way Soil pH Tester is favored, not only because of its high precision but also because of its quick response. It might give you the outcome in just about 10 seconds.
As long as you follow the instruction in an appropriate way, this tool can work wonders due to double needle measurement.
You should remember to switch between different modes to get the data you need. One-touch button operation makes it comfortable to use.
It’s perfect for various types of planting such as vegetables, herbs, fruits, flowers, food plots and more.
Key features:
- 3-in-1 soil pH tester
- 1.74 x 8.25-inch in size
- Designed for various types of planting
- Lightweight
Pros
- High precision
- Quick to respond
- Versatile
- Clear instruction
Cons
- It might be a bit difficult to read
Product Specifications
| Brand | PentaBeauty |
| Number of probes | 2 |
| Probe length | Not specific |
| Probe Material | Not specific |
| Power Source | No |
| Soil PH measuring range | 3.5-8pH |
| Benefits | pH/Light/Moisture |
How to Choose the Best Soil pH Tester
There are a variety of things that you should look for when picking a pH soil tester. Some of these factors are:
Size
A soil pH tester often has a small and compact size. This way, it becomes portable and convenient for gardeners. Despite its design, it appears durable and sturdy enough to do its job.
As you might not know, the probe’s length ranges typically from 5-8 inches.
Display
For an analog tester, the dial window should be wide enough to read. All numbers and markings should be clear so that users can easily interpret the results as soon as they look at them.
There will be a small screen for a digital tester that displays specific digits; therefore, it seems to be more convenient and more comfortable to read.
Durability
Usually, most soil pH testers in my article are designed with a display screen and one or two probes. The probe will be inserted into the soil to measure data.
The stronger the probe is, the more durable the item becomes. That’s why you should pay attention to this part of the tester. Don’t forget to wash and wipe it clean after use.
Versatility
The soil pH tester might not only be designed for pH but also for light and moisture measurement. Moisture indicator often ranges from 1-10 while sunlight is from 0-2000 lux.
If you prefer versatility, it’s better to opt for this type of 3-in-1 soil tester.
FAQs
If you have some questions in your mind about the best soil pH testers, you might want to check the next part below.
My Top Pick
I have discussed the 15 best soil pH testers products in the market and elaborate on each option’s advantages and disadvantages. Based on my reviews, you can obtain some essential knowledge to purchase the right tester
And the go-to product for me is Sonkir MS02 3-in-1 Gardening Tool Kits Soil pH Tester for its high quality and versatility.
How about you? Drop a line in the comment section! I would love to discuss more about this gardening tool.
