Personally, I've never found one or even read of a recommended one that didn't cost several hundred dollars. Not worth it to me.

Soil pH can vary drastically over a 3' area so a proper professional soil test - much less expensive - and a blanket improvement as recommended is far more beneficial IMO than any spot checks could ever be.

There have been previous discussions here on various brands and the associated problems with them that you might want to browse through.

Dave

I've not seen any pH meter that costs less than several hundred dollars that is reliably consistant in measuring your soils pH. Many, especially those that cost less than $50.00, will give the same reading if the probe is put into a Vinegar Solution or a Baking Soda solution.
Soil pH should not vary by much in short distances unless something is done to the soil to change the pH in that small area.

Hello, astembridge.

Here is a pic of my pH meter. It is old, I bought it in the late 70s for less than $20. I use it all the time (and test it every Spring). It has worked for 30 years now. (good grief!) I stick the probe into moist (not wet - it needs a little moisture to work). The needle swings to the pH reading while the probe is in the soil or potting mix. No batteries. Don't know if they still make these. They certainly do not seem to wear out! I guard it like gold...
Kris

J&M Instruments Corp. (this unit circa 1976)

{{gwi:318439}}

Y'know, I did see one just like mine on eBay this past September. I don't see it there now but there are a lot of others to look at...
Kris