Bad caps or bad meter?

[gingataff]

Hi,
I've  been testing a bunch of caps in the pF range using my cheapo pocket meter and almost all of them are showing values lower than they should be. I know there is a range of tolerance but the differences are quite consistent. For example my 100pF caps read about 86pF, 120 is 100, 150 is 120. etc.
It doesn't seem to matter if the caps are ceramic, mica or panasonic film.

Do I have a load of caps that are a low (there are a few which seem to be ok) or should I be looking at buying a new meter?

Any help appreciated, thanks.

[pickdropper]

It is very possible your meter can't measure accurately down to the picofarad range.  I would check the specs of your meter.

Even some expensive meters aren't very good at this, so look carefully if you buy a different meter.

[gingataff]

I just put together a capacitance meter from sparkfun, and it seems my caps are fine!
I highly recommend one of these kits if you want to be sure with those low value caps.