Seaward Primetest 125 EL Review
If you're after an ultra-affordable PAT Tester that gets the basics done quickly, the Seaward Primetest 125 EL is a practical and no-fuss choice. It's perfect for occasional testers, tradespeople tagging their own equipment, or anyone needing a lightweight unit that meets Australian Standards without overcomplicating things.
That's exactly why it remains one of the most popular models under $1000.
Pros:
- One of the most affordable PAT Testers in Australia.
- Battery-powered for portability.
- Now includes Leakage Current Testing.
- Fast, simple three-button operation.
Cons:
- Doesn't have 250V Insulation testing; instead uses a leakage test at 240V.
- No RCD Testing.
- No memory storage or upgrade options.
Key Features of Primetest 125 EL
The Seaward Primetest 125 EL has become a go-to choice for people new to the industry and budget-conscious buyers across Australia. Originally developed as an upgrade to the well-known Primetest 125, the EL version adds Leakage Current testing - significantly boosting its capabilities while still staying in the entry-level price range.
At just 0.8kg and running on 6 x AA batteries, the Primetest 125 EL is one of the only testers under $1000 with true cordless portability. It's ideal for mobile tradies or office users who don't want to be tied to a power outlet. Battery life typically lasts a few months, and replacements are inexpensive.
Battery-Powered & Portability
While most portable appliance testers in this price bracket require mains power, the 125 EL runs entirely on six AA batteries - making it ideal for testing in the field, onsite, or in locations without reliable access to power. Likewise, it now includes a semi-rigid case as standard, a handy addition (it previously had no cover or case by default).
Battery life will depend on how often you use it, but for most users, a fresh set should last several months. While rechargeable batteries would be a bonus, it's hard to complain at this price point - especially given the added convenience of true portability.
Straightforward 3-button Testing
There's no menu, no scrolling and no complicated setup. Just three buttons:
- CL I – for Class I and extension leads
- CL II – for Class II items
- LKG – for Leakage Current testing
Each button runs the associated test automatically. Once complete, the appliance tester displays your actual measurement and a clear PASS or FAIL on the screen.
Leakage Current Testing Included
Leakage Current Testing is a key addition compared to the original Primetest 125 model. Having this option brings the 125 EL into line with compliance expectations for many basic electrical environments, giving it a real edge in the entry-level market.
Crisp LCD Screen
The screen is clear and easy to read, with results shown in large text alongside a clear PASS or FAIL result.
Like Seaward's PAC3760 DL, the 125 EL uses acronyms to represent different tests - for example, "rpe" for Earth Continuity or 'riso' for Insulation Resistance. It may initially feel unfamiliar, but most users get used to the abbreviations quickly.
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Seaward Primetest 125 EL v. Seaward PAC3760 DL
| Primetest 125 EL | PAC3760DL | |
| 250V Insulation |  |
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| 500V Insulation |  |
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| > 10A Operation | |
|
| Internal Isolation Transformer | |
|
| RCD Testing | |
|
| 3PH Testing (with adaptor) | |
|
| Customisable test sequences | |
|
| Battery Power | |
|
| Internal Memory | |
|
| Mains Supply Test | |
|
| Power Measurement | |
|
| Hard Bodied Carry Case | |
|
| Camera with flash | |
|
| Colour screen | |
|
| Keyboard | |
|
| Tag Printer Compatible | |
|
| Scanner Compatible | |
|
| PC Connectivity | |
|
| Bluetooth | |
|
How it Performs in the Field
In light-use settings - like small businesses, schools, offices, and self-employed tradies - the 125 EL delivers exactly what's needed: speed, simplicity, and portability. We've generally found over the years that It's commonly used by those who:- Are tagging their own tools or workshop gear
- Need to test a small number of appliances occasionally
- Want a portable appliance tester that's easy to learn and fast to use
Its compact design and single-handed operation make it especially convenient for tight spaces or onsite work.
It does not support RCD testing or advanced insulation resistance (250V), so it's unsuitable for construction, mining, or large-scale test and tag operators. It also lacks memory and report-generation features, so results must be manually written down.
Drawbacks to Consider
This particular test and tag machine is designed for simplicity, but that comes with trade-offs:- No internal memory or data storage
- No upgrade path (e.g. printers, scanners)
- No RCD testing
- Manual result logging only
Depending on your use case, these may or may not matter - but they're important to know upfront. But this is why it's not one size fits all with PAT Testers.
Is it Worth the Investment?
If your test and tag needs are light and your budget is tight, the Primetest 125 EL is one of the best-value choices on the market. It's battery-powered, covers the essential tests (including Leakage Current), and is extremely easy to operate - but the main reason it earned its place in our Top 5 PAT Testers 2025 is reliability.
While other entry-level testers can feel flimsy or break down over time, the Seaward 125 EL continues to prove itself as a tough, dependable choice in the sub-$1000 range.
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