A “pinless” meter (or non-destructive meter) uses an electromagnetic wave or high frequency signal to determine the moisture content of wood. This technology makes it possible to scan a length of lumber for an overall indication of moisture content along the entire wood length and is often available with digital readouts, for higher accuracy in readings, or with analog indicators, for relative readings.

For woodworking, furniture making or wood floor installation, “pinless” meters do no damage to the wood surface and allow multiple readings without marring the wood surface.

A “pin-style” meter typically measures below the surface of wood by perforating the surface with sharp metal probes. A signal is sent between the two probes and the resistance to the signal is used to interpret the amount of moisture in the wood. Some models offer replaceable probes of different lengths for moisture measurement at different depths. Note that the reading represents the moisture content of the wood between the two probes and may not represent a large-scale picture of the actual moisture content. Several readings (and multiple pin holes) are usually necessary to get on representational picture of the moisture content.