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There is no single best function generator. Choose by the signal you must produce, the accuracy you need, and whether you want a standalone bench instrument or a computer-connected tool. For portable mixed-signal work, the Digilent Analog Discovery 3 is the strongest value. For a dedicated two-channel bench generator, the B&K Precision 4063B is a well-equipped midrange choice. Professional users should compare model-specific Tektronix AFG31000, RIGOL, SIGLENT, and Keysight specifications rather than buying on maximum frequency alone.
Quick recommendations
| Use case | Candidate | Why it fits | Main limitation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Portable, multifunction and creative work | Digilent Analog Discovery 3 | Two-channel AWG, oscilloscope, logic analyzer, pattern generator, supplies and WaveForms software in one USB instrument; listed at $379 on Digilent’s U.S. store (price observed August 16, 2026). | 12 MHz AWG bandwidth with the BNC Adapter; host-computer dependent. |
| Dedicated midrange bench generator | B&K Precision 4063B | Two channels, 80 MHz model, broad modulation, triggers, arbitrary waveforms and LAN/USB automation. | Costs substantially more than a USB multifunction instrument and does not include an oscilloscope. |
| Value-oriented standalone bench family | RIGOL DG800/DG900 and related families | RIGOL lists two-channel products and, for the DG4000 family, up to 500 MSa/s and 16K-point arbitrary memory. | Family-level information is not enough to select a precise model; verify the exact datasheet and current price. |
| Premium general-purpose generation | Tektronix AFG31000 | One- or two-channel models, 14-bit vertical resolution, 250 MS/s to 2 GS/s, 25–250 MHz bandwidth and 16 MSa per channel. | Base U.S. prices shown from $3,380, which is excessive for basic waveforms. |
| High-speed complex signals | Tektronix AWG70000B and comparable high-end AWGs | Built for serial, optical, radar and communications stimulus; Tektronix lists AWG-family rates up to 50 GS/s. | Specialized, expensive and unnecessary for ordinary analog or audio work. |
| Automation-centered professional lab | Keysight waveform/function generators | Broad range with emphasis on controlled DUT stimulus, integration and vendor support. | Many configurations are quote-based, so universal price comparisons are not possible. |
These are specification- and use-case-based recommendations, not independent laboratory rankings. The available product information does not establish comparative phase noise, total harmonic distortion, spurious-free dynamic range, amplitude accuracy or interface responsiveness across all models.
Function generator, arbitrary waveform generator or RF generator?
Conventional function generator
A conventional unit supplies standard signals such as sine, square, triangle, ramp, pulse, noise and DC. It is usually the right answer for filter checks, amplifier measurements, clock-like stimulus and basic troubleshooting.
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Arbitrary waveform generator (AWG)
An AWG lets you create or import point-by-point waveforms. That enables sensor emulation, fault and transient injection, recorded-signal playback, control-loop tests, digital-interface stimulus, distorted or mathematical signals, and creative audio or physical-computing experiments. “Arbitrary” does not mean perfect reproduction: sample rate, memory, vertical resolution, output bandwidth, filtering and resampling all affect the result.
#1 Best Overall
- Dual Channel Function Generator: UNI-T UTG932E features dual channels with Ch1-Ch2 combining capability and outputs multiple waveforms including sine, square, pulse, ramp, noise, DC, and arbitrary waveforms
- Advanced Modulation Capabilities: Supports six modulation types including AM, FM, PM, FSK, Line, and Log with 24 groups of non-volatile arbitrary waveform storage
- High Performance Specifications: Features 200MSa/s sampling rate, TTL level signal compatible 6-digit high accuracy built-in frequency counter with output range from 1Hz to 30MHz
- Precision Signal Generation: Utilizes DDS (direct digital synthesis) method with 14 bits vertical resolution and full-band resolution of 1Hz, supports frequency scanning and output
- Complete Package Contents: Includes UTG932E function generator, power adapter (USA standard), USB cable power cord, BNC cable, BNC cable with alligator clips, paper manual, and eManual
RF or vector signal generator
For carrier-frequency work, shop for an RF or vector signal generator. Check carrier range, modulation accuracy, phase noise, harmonic and nonharmonic spurs, level accuracy, frequency step size, stability and (where needed) IQ capability. An AWG’s arbitrary mode alone does not make it an RF test source.
What precision really means
Precision is a set of separate specifications, not a single frequency number.
- Frequency accuracy and timebase stability: determine how close the output is to the programmed value and how much it drifts during long or phase-sensitive tests.
- Amplitude accuracy and flatness: determine whether the programmed voltage is delivered, and whether it stays consistent as frequency changes.
- Jitter and phase accuracy: matter for clocks, serial links, synchronized channels and I/Q experiments.
- Harmonic distortion and spurious content: matter for audio, ADC, filter and metrology work.
- Repeatability, triggering and calibration: determine whether repeated bursts, sweeps and production procedures start and finish predictably and whether results can be traceable.
A high maximum frequency does not automatically mean better timing, lower distortion or better amplitude accuracy.
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Bandwidth is not sample rate
Start with the highest meaningful spectral component of the DUT stimulus. Low-frequency analog, sensor and audio work often needs only tens of megahertz. Fast edges require attention to rise time, analog output bandwidth and reconstruction filtering, not just the programmed square-wave frequency. The oscilloscope used to verify the signal also needs sufficient bandwidth. A “five-times bandwidth” rule is only a heuristic; acceptable error depends on waveform and measurement goals.
Rank #2
- 【Upgraded Signal Stability】Seesii Dual-channel DDS arbitrary waveform generator adopts large-scale FPGA integrated circuit and high-speed MCU microprocessor. The internal circuit adopts an active crystal oscillator as a benchmark. So the signal stability is greatly strengthened
- 【Storage And Custom】 You can store 99 groups of instrument state parameters set by the user, which can be called up to Reproduce. The frequency output of a Sine wave can be up to 15MHz. 200MSa/s sampling rate. It has 60 positions for saving user-defined waveforms. In addition, it has a very good software package that allows you to create your waves and frequency combinations. After you save them, you can disconnect the unit from the computer and use them for any applications you wish
- 【High Precise】 Using Dual-channel DDS signal and TTL electric level output to generate a precise, stable, low distortion output signal. Includes Sine wave, Square wave, Triangle wave, Sawtooth wave, Pulse wave, white noise, user-defined waveform, etc. Each channel can be independently set the parameters. The duty cycle of each channel can be adjusted separately. Precision can be 0.1%
- 【Frequency Meter】With linear sweep(Max. up to 999.9s) and logarithmic frequency sweep functions.Has a frequency measurement, period measurement, positive and negative pulse width measurement, and counting function. The settings allow you to enter up to 20volts
- 【Lightweight Compact and Portable】With an intuitive control panel, you can easy to control. This Signal Generator is the ideal instrument for electronic engineering, laboratories, production lines, teaching, and scientific research. This is an important tool for both experts and newcomers
For example, the B&K 4063B page advertises up to 1.2 GSa/s for sine, square, triangle and pulse waveforms while identifying the model as an 80 MHz function/arbitrary generator. Those numbers describe different limits: sample clock capability is not the same as analog output bandwidth. See the manufacturer’s specifications at B&K Precision.
Compare sample-rate conditions
- Is the rate specified for one channel or all channels?
- Does it apply to standard waveforms, arbitrary playback, or both?
- What DAC resolution and effective number of bits are specified?
- What interpolation, decimation and reconstruction filters are used?
- What is the maximum update rate when sequencing or modulating?
Memory controls waveform duration
Memory determines how many custom points can play before repetition, compression or resampling. Deep memory helps with long sensor recordings, slow transients, burst sequences, captured-waveform playback and patterns that need both long duration and fine timing. A slower generator with deeper memory can therefore be more useful than a faster unit with a short buffer.
Output voltage, loading and safety
Understand the 50-ohm convention
Many generators specify amplitude into a 50-ohm load. With a high-impedance DUT, some instruments deliver approximately twice the displayed voltage. A mismatch can change amplitude, edge shape and reflections. Set the instrument’s load assumption correctly and verify the actual voltage on an oscilloscope.
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Before connecting a DUT, confirm maximum peak-to-peak voltage, DC-offset range, frequency derating, output protection and whether the output is floating or earth-referenced. The Analog Discovery 3 specifies ±5 V AWG output, 14-bit resolution and 12 MHz bandwidth with the BNC Adapter; those limits suit many educational, logic, analog and audio experiments but not high-voltage or high-power loads. See the Analog Discovery 3 datasheet.
Rank #3
- Dual channel * 40 MHz (Sine wave) * Touch screen display
- 16 bit vertical resolution * Modulation / Sweep / Burst
- TrueArb Technology / Easy Pulse Technology
- Built-in high precision Frequency Counter
- USB / LAN interfaces. Optional GPIB adapter available
- Do not connect a generator directly to an unknown powered circuit.
- Check common-ground assumptions and input ratings before applying DC offset.
- Use a buffer or power amplifier for speakers, motors, transducers or low-resistance loads.
- Earth-referenced outputs can short a circuit or create a ground loop; use isolation or differential methods where appropriate.
When two channels are worth paying for
Two channels enable differential stimulus, clock-and-data tests, reference-versus-DUT comparisons, dual-tone audio, synchronized sweeps and phase experiments. However, two outputs do not guarantee independent sample rates, separate memory, identical analog performance, perfect phase alignment or equal bandwidth. Check channel skew, phase-control resolution, shared clock and trigger resources, cross-channel isolation and whether an advanced mode on one channel limits the other.
Recommended instruments in detail
Digilent Analog Discovery 3: best portable creative instrument
The Analog Discovery 3 combines a two-channel oscilloscope, two-channel AWG, logic analyzer, pattern generator, programmable supplies, network and impedance analysis, spectrum analysis and WaveForms software. Digilent lists USB-C connectivity, Windows/macOS/Linux support, up to 125 MS/s per AWG channel, 14-bit resolution, ±5 V output, AM/FM, sweep and math modes, captured-scope playback, and SDK support for Python, C and C++, plus LabVIEW and MATLAB compatibility. Its listed U.S. store price was $379 on August 16, 2026: official product page.
Choose it for education, portable debugging, software-driven experiments and waveform creativity. Do not choose it when the DUT needs more than approximately 12 MHz of clean AWG bandwidth with the BNC Adapter, higher output power, a front-panel-only workflow or regulated metrology. Connection method matters; consult the product page and datasheet for the applicable bandwidth conditions. The optional BNC Adapter and cables also affect total cost.
B&K Precision 4063B: best dedicated midrange choice
The 4063B is a two-channel, 80 MHz model with a headline 1.2 GSa/s rate for sine, square, triangle and pulse waveforms, 196 built-in arbitrary waveforms and custom-waveform software. It supports AM/DSB-AM, FM, PM, PSK, FSK, ASK, PWM, linear and logarithmic sweeps, gate, burst, triggering, variable DC offset, channel copy/tracking and waveform combination. USBTMC-compatible USB, LAN, optional USB-to-GPIB and LabVIEW drivers support automation. The manufacturer page showed $1,470 and a three-year warranty; regional taxes, promotions and distributor prices vary: product page.
Rank #4
- Upgraded Signal Stability: Seesii Dual-channel DDS arbitrary waveform generator adopts large scale FPGA integrated circuit and high speed MCU microprocessor. The internal circuit adopts active crystal oscillator as benchmark. So the signal stability is greatly strengthened
- Storage And Custom: You can store 99 groups instrument state parameters set by the user, can be called up to Reproduce. Frequency output of Sine wave can be up to 60MHz. 200MSa/s sampling rate. It has 60 positions for saving user-defined waveform. In addition, it has a very good software package that allows you to create your own waves and frequency combinations. After you save them, you can disconnect the unit from the computer and use them for any applications you wish
- High Precise: Using Dual-channel DDS signal and TTL electric level output to generate precise, stable, low distortion output signal. includes Sine wave, Square wave, Triangle wave, Sawtooth wave, Pulse wave, white noise, user-defined waveform etc. each channel can be independently set the parameters.Duty cycle of each channel can be adjusted separately. Precision can be 0.1%
- Frequency Meter: With linear sweep(Max. up to 999.9s) and logarithmic frequency sweep functions.Has a frequency measurement, period measurement, positive and negative pulse width measurement and counting function.The settings allow you to enter up to 20volts
- Lightweght Compact and Portable: With intuitive control panel, you can easy to control.This Signal Generator is the ideal instrument for electronic engineering, laboratories, production lines, teaching and scientific research. This is an important tool for both experts and newcomers
It suits repeatable bench procedures and broad modulation requirements. It is a poor fit if you need an integrated scope, a sub-$1,000 purchase or premium high-speed AWG fidelity.
RIGOL DG800/DG900 and related families: investigate for value
RIGOL’s waveform-generator page lists two-channel products and shows, for the DG4000 family, up to 500 MSa/s, 16K-point arbitrary-waveform length and a displayed $1,199–$2,299 range: RIGOL product family. That is useful for identifying a standalone bench category, but not enough to recommend one exact model. Verify the current model datasheet for bandwidth, vertical resolution, distortion, memory, modulation, software and U.S. price before ordering.
Tektronix AFG31000: premium general-purpose bench generation
Tektronix lists one- and two-channel models with 14-bit vertical resolution, 250 MS/s to 2 GS/s sampling, 25–250 MHz bandwidth and 16 MSa per channel. Base U.S. prices were shown from $3,380: AFG31000 family. It is appropriate when professional support, higher bandwidth or deeper memory justify the cost, but unnecessary for basic sine, square and sweep work.
The Tool Desk
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Tektronix positions this class for high-speed serial, optical communications, radar, electronic warfare and complex communications stimulus; its AWG family reaches up to 50 GS/s and up to eight channels: AWG family. These instruments are overkill for students, audio, ordinary analog filters and low-speed microcontrollers.
Keysight waveform and function generators: automation-oriented alternative
Keysight emphasizes controlled DUT stimulus, component and system characterization, bandwidth, channel count, arbitrary capability and integration: Keysight range. This is a logical choice for organizations with an established Keysight environment or production-test requirements. Many configurations are quote-based, and no universal price or accuracy advantage should be assumed without a model-specific comparison.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.Match the generator to the application
| Application | Prioritize | Typical fit |
|---|---|---|
| Audio amplifier or filter testing | Low distortion, amplitude flatness, clean sine waves, sweep and 50-ohm verification. | Dedicated midrange generator or AD3 if 12 MHz bandwidth is sufficient. |
| Microcontroller clocks and logic | Rise time, trigger repeatability, level and offset, channel synchronization. | Two-channel bench unit; verify edges on a scope. |
| Sensor emulation and fault injection | AWG memory, import tools, sequencing, arbitrary resolution and playback control. | AD3 for portable work; deeper-memory professional AWG for long records. |
| Power-converter control loops | Low-frequency arbitrary patterns, burst/gate control, safe offset and isolation. | Bench AWG with suitable memory; add buffering or isolation as required. |
| Communications and high-speed serial | Jitter, phase control, sample rate, bandwidth, sequencing and channel synchronization. | Professional AFG or dedicated high-end AWG; do not infer RF suitability from arbitrary mode. |
| Creative sound and physical computing | Easy waveform editing, playback, scripting and visual measurement. | Analog Discovery 3. |
Buying checklist
- Write down the highest required sine frequency and the highest meaningful harmonic or edge content.
- Specify output amplitude, DC offset, load impedance and whether the output must be floating.
- Count simultaneous channels and define phase or trigger relationships.
- Decide whether standard waveforms are enough or whether you need imported, recorded or mathematical waveforms.
- Record the longest waveform duration and required point density.
- Check sample rate at the selected channel count, vertical resolution, analog bandwidth and memory together.
- List required AM, FM, PM, FSK, PSK, ASK, PWM, sweep, burst, gate and external-modulation functions.
- Specify USBTMC, LAN, GPIB, SCPI, Python, MATLAB or LabVIEW requirements and whether the instrument must run without a computer.
- Include cables, 50-ohm terminators, adapters, probes, amplifiers, calibration and service in the total cost.
Verify a purchase before putting it into service
- Connect the generator to an oscilloscope with the correct cable, adapter and termination.
- Match the generator’s load setting to the oscilloscope and DUT arrangement.
- Begin with a low-amplitude sine wave and zero DC offset; confirm frequency and amplitude.
- Increase frequency and watch amplitude flatness, distortion and unexpected clipping.
- Test the intended square wave and a representative imported arbitrary waveform.
- Switch between 50-ohm and high-impedance conditions and observe the voltage change.
- Exercise trigger, burst, sweep and channel synchronization if they are part of the application.
- Verify SCPI commands, error queries, saved setups or SDK access before automating the test.
An internal frequency counter can measure external signals, but it does not by itself prove the generator’s own timebase accuracy. Likewise, a displayed amplitude is not proof of the voltage at a loaded DUT.
Quick Recap
Decision tree
- Need an oscilloscope, logic analyzer and generator together? Choose the Analog Discovery 3 if its bandwidth and voltage limits fit.
- Need a standalone two-channel bench generator with broad modulation? Start with the B&K 4063B and compare exact RIGOL or SIGLENT models.
- Need professional 100 MHz-plus generation, deeper memory or vendor support? Compare model-specific Tektronix, Keysight, RIGOL and SIGLENT datasheets.
- Need high-speed serial, optical, radar or complex communications stimulus? Use a dedicated high-end AWG.
- Need an RF carrier? Buy an RF or vector signal generator, not a function generator selected only for its arbitrary-waveform feature.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
