Seaward Primetest Elite+ Review
The Pros: Battery and mains powered. Tests both portable and fixed RCDs – no isolation transformer needed. Stores up to 50,000 test results, making it ideal for high-volume use. Features an in-built camera for visual records and comes fully programmable with automatic test sequences. Works seamlessly with both Bluetooth and USB printers for efficient tagging and data handling.
The Cons: One of the pricier options on the market. It’s larger and heavier than previous models, which can make it less portable for smaller setups. Full data management requires the PATGuard 3 software, so you’ll need to factor in ongoing subscription costs for complete functionality.
The Bottom Line: The Primetest Elite+ is made for high-volume, high-efficiency environments. It’s not for casual or occasional testers – it’s designed for professionals who want seamless workflows, advanced automation, and complete feature integration. If you need a premium, all-in-one unit that keeps up with demanding schedules, this is the one to beat.
Key Features of Primetest Elite+
The Seaward Primetest Elite+ is one of the most advanced portable appliance testers on the NZ market. It’s built for users who need speed, accuracy, and automated testing — while maintaining compliance with AS/NZS 3760 and AS/NZS 3012.
When paired with the Seaward Elite+ Kit, it becomes a complete test and tag solution, integrating seamlessly with compatible printers, scanners, and PATGuard software.
Fast and Flexible Data Transfer
You can transfer test data in two simple ways:
- Transfer results to a USB flash drive and import them into your software
- Or connect the tester directly to your PC via USB cable
Either way, it makes backing up and managing your test results fast and stress-free. It’s ideal if you’re dealing with large volumes or just want peace of mind that your data’s safe - even if the appliance tester gets lost or damaged. Honestly, it’s one of the fastest data upload processes we’ve seen in any PAT tester.
Large Storage with Advanced Data Fields
The Primetest Elite+ stores up to 50,000 test results, with fields for all the important stuff - site, make/model, asset ID, serial number, user notes - you name it. Perfect for high-volume users who need to keep things organised and accessible, especially in industries that are more compliance-heavy.
Unlike other testers, the Primetest range allows you to record serial numbers, asset IDs, and other detailed information directly on the unit at the time of test, which is especially useful for offices managing hundreds of computers, monitors, printers, and other electronics.
Whether you're working in a large corporate environment or handling testing for multiple departments across NZ, this level of tracking gives you better control, better records, and a much smoother audit process.
Built-in Camera for Visual Records
The integrated camera is one of the standout features. It lets you capture photos directly at the time of testing — adding visual proof to your compliance reports.
- Record proof of condition: Verify that guards, plugs, or cables were compliant at time of test.
- Show failed items clearly: Provide visual evidence for clients or auditors.
- Track wear and tear: Keep a visual record of asset condition across testing cycles.
It’s not mandatory - but it’s smart. And in workplaces where safety and accountability matter, the camera on the Elite+ gives you the backup you might need down the line. While you could take photos on your phone and manually update reports later, that takes extra time and it's easy for images to get lost. .
Customisable Interface to your Preferences
You can easily personalise your home screen, lock down test records, adjust time zones, and create shortcut test codes to speed things up - such as streamlining repeat jobs and reduce setup time. The Seaward Elite+ is customisable, practical, and built for real-world workflows.
Despite all the advanced tech packed into the Elite, everyday use is still straightforward. The tester includes five function buttons (F1 to F5) that guide you through different commands and test options. It’s intuitive, easy to follow, and lets you move through tasks without getting bogged down in menus.
Colour Touchscreen + QWERTY Keyboard
Between the bright colour screen and the built-in QWERTY keyboard, entering data is fast and familiar. Whether you're logging 10 items or 1000, it feels more like a tool designed to help - not slow you down. If you've come from a portable appliance tester without a QWERTY format keyboard, you'll notice the difference instantly.
All-in-One Electrical Testing
The Primetest Elite+ covers all tests required under AS/NZS 3760, including Class I, Class II, leads, and RCD testing. It features a built-in isolation transformer, allowing you to test portable and fixed RCDs without extra gear.
It also supports battery and mains operation, giving you flexibility onsite or in-house.
How it Performs in the Field
In real-world use, the Primetest Elite+ is what you'd expect from a high-end appliance tester - speed, reliability and smooth workflows. The automatic sequences and shortcut test codes are a big time-saver when you’re running through high volumes of assets, especially in commercial settings where time is money. The colour screen is sharp and clear, even in low-light environments like switch rooms or back-of-house areas, and the QWERTY keyboard makes data entry feel natura, even with gloves on.
The battery holds up well over a full day of testing, though having mains power as a fallback is great for longer jobs or in-house testing.
While the actual test and tag machine is bulkier than most, it replaces multiple bits of gear, including a separate isolation transformer, so what you lose in size, you gain in simplicity. And the camera isn’t just a gimmick - it’s genuinely useful for snapping photos of failed electrical items on the spot, so you’ve got visual documentation ready for your reports.
Add in fast data backup, seamless integration with printers and scanners (if you do decide to add that on), and the ability to lock down records on the unit, and it’s clear this tester was built for test and tag professionals who want their setup to work with them.
Drawbacks
With great features comes a higher price and larger footprint. If you're doing basic testing or don’t need portable RCD functionality, this PAT Tester may be more than you need. Also, older printers (like the Zebra P4T and QL420) are no longer compatible with the newer model, so you’ll need to upgrade to the ProTag XL Printer if you're coming from an older Seaward model.
Is it Worth the Investment?
If you’re a high-volume test and tagger, a commercial electrician, or running a test and tag business that needs speed, accuracy, and full compliance, the Seaward Primetest Elite+ is absolutely worth the investment.
It’s not cheap, but it’s not meant to be. This is a top-tier portable appliance tester designed to make your life easier, streamline your workflow, and reduce the need for extra gear. For the right kind of user, it’ll pay itself off in time saved and fewer headaches. Seaward also has a strong reputation for being reliable, which is critical - because the last thing you want is breakdowns when you're on-site.
If you only test and tag occasionally or don’t need RCD functionality, you’re better off looking at a simpler unit that doesn't carry the same price tag. But if you're after the best Seaward has to offer - this is it.
See full specs and pricing of the Primetest Elite
Ready to upgrade? See what's included in the Seaward Elite+ Kit