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Cheapest oscilloscope worth buying for hobby/student use?

Posted: Fri May 15, 2026 11:00 am
by mark_ee_qc
Thesis sometimes needs visualization of signal timing (PWM, I2C). Multimeter is not enough. Researching scopes pero budget tight (PHP 5000-10000 max).

Options I'm seeing:
  • DSO138 / DSO150 single-channel pocket scopes (~PHP 1500): toys, but get the concept across
  • Hantek DSO5072P (2-ch 70MHz, ~PHP 12000): real entry-level
  • Used Rigol DS1052E from surplus (~PHP 7000-9000 if lucky): may have age issues
  • USB scope like Hantek 6022BE (~PHP 4500): tethered, low spec, but cheap
For sampling I2C, looking at sub-microsecond resolution. Anyone using one of these regularly that they'd recommend? Honest opinions welcome.