Martindale NC2 Non-contact Voltage Tester

Does the job safely

Good quality, will catch current on a closed/sheathed cable. Don't worry about the lack of auto power off, which some of the other NC models have, you are reminded it is on by the flashing red light. Does everything I want it to. Light is useful too.

works as it should, but can pick up things like static electricity as well

Having used many types of this device over the years , and more expensive ones too , Martindale set a nice standard and are a robust piece of kit ! you won't be disappointed ! 1 happy customer

Simple to use

This worked well at first. I have read a few more reviews and I have had similar issues. The main cause seems to be the battery spring in the battery housing. It tends to compress of its own accord which results in the batteries not touching or intermittently touching when the unit is moved around. I have had to take mine apart and restretch the spring which then keeps the batteries connected. I have only had this unit 12 months and only use it occasionally. Given this fault I would suggest not buying it as it could prove dangerous or buy a more reliable one.

bought for my son to stop him getting a curly perm

After taking off the old wall light I discovered that both wires coming out of the wall were the same colour (the horror!). With this non-contact tester I was easily able to tell which wire was live and which was neutral. It seems nicely built but only the time will tell whether it holds up over time.