An electric field strength indicator for use with high voltage conductors comprises a capacitive probe mounted within a tubular shield having an insulating spacer at one end for locating the unit with respect to a conductor under test. The probe is electrically coupled to a signalling circuit and is movable axially within the shield to a position at which a threshold response is obtained. Such position, which denotes the conductor voltage, is read on a scale provided. Because of the shield the device is directional, the probe being shielded from neighboring conductors.