Best lightning strike counters for lightning protection systems – reliable event tracking under $200

Recommendation

This Lightning Strike Event Counter from seller 60s-electrical on eBay matches the selected product and is listed at $199.00 — the listing appears to be a purpose-built event counter for lightning detection, so it aligns with the goal of reliably recording strike events for hobbyist or small-scale monitoring use. Why this is a good choice: - It’s a specialist item (title and dedicated seller imply instrumentation focus), which means it’s likely designed specifically for counting high-energy transient events rather than a generic pulse counter. That specialization typically gives better noise rejection and clearer event discrimination than DIY alternatives. - Sold through an established marketplace listing (eBay) with a clear product title and thumbnail, making it straightforward to review seller feedback, ask questions, and check included accessories prior to purchase. Budget fit: - You did not specify a target budget; at $199, this device sits in a moderate price band for niche meteorological/electrical counters. For hobbyists this price is often reasonable; for professional, continuous monitoring you may want to compare higher-end units that include logging, networking, or official calibration (which cost more). Things to consider: - Verify item condition (new, used, refurbished) and what’s included (power supply, mounting hardware, manual). - Confirm power requirements and whether a separate adapter or battery is needed. - Ask the seller about sensor interface and whether the unit includes internal detection electronics or requires an external sensor. - Note environmental/weatherproofing: many counters need sheltered installation or weatherproof housings. - Expect potential false positives from nearby electrical noise; check if the unit has filtering, threshold adjustment, or calibration options. - Check return policy and seller rating before buying.