Seaward Primetest Elite + Review
The Pros: Battery and mains powered. Tests portable and fixed RCD’s - no isolation transformer required. Capable of storing a massive 50,000 test results. Unique in-built camera. Fully programmable PAT tester with auto test sequences. Works with Bluetooth and USB printers.
The Cons: One of the most expensive options. Larger and heavier than previous models. Requires PATGuard 3 for full data management.
The Bottom Line: The Primetest Elite is made for high-volume, high-efficiency environments. It’s not for someone doing basic testing- it’s for professionals who want seamless integration, fast workflows, and no compromise on features. If you're testing RCDs regularly and want a premium all-in-one unit, this is it.
Features of Primtest Elite+
The Seaward Primetest Elite+ is one of the most advanced portable appliance testers available in Australia. It’s built for high-volume professionals who need seamless automation, portable RCD testing and detailed record-keeping - all in one unit.
When used as part of the Seaward XL Elite+ Kit, it becomes a full test and tag solution, with a compatible printer, scanner, software, and accessories designed to work together seamlessly.
Fast and Flexible Data Transfer
One of the standout features of the Primetest Elite+ is how quickly and easily it handles data. You’ve got two options:
- 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, this level of tracking gives you better control, better records, and a much smoother audit process.
Built-in Camera for Visual Records
Need to show why something failed? Just snap a photo. The onboard camera is a rarity amongst PAT Testers, and it’s a smart one - especially when you’re dealing with compliance, reporting, or just need proof for a customer.
- Proof of condition: Say you're testing a grinder and the guard is on correctly. A photo locks that in at the time of testing - if something happens later, you’ve got visual evidence that the equipment was compliant.
- Clear fails: If you fail something because of damage, a photo makes it crystal clear why. That’s helpful for reports, and even more helpful when users or management want to know what went wrong.
- Better asset tracking: These photos can also help keep track of wear and tear across your gear out in the field.
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 testing to AS/NZS standards and includes a built-in isolation transformer, so you can test portable and fixed RCDs without needing extra accessories. It also features fully automatic sequences, custom test configurations, and supports both battery and mains power for flexibility on the job.
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 tester, 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 XL Elite+ Kit