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The Wagner MMC210 is one of the most accurate meters we tested for measuring moisture in different woods. It is a pinless meter that measures moisture without damaging the wood surface and without interference from surface moisture.
Suitable for many wood-related applications, this lightweight and easy-to-operate meter measures moisture in common domestic softwood and hardwood species. This meter offers a HOLD function which “freezes” the reading until the display can be viewed.
This is a well-constructed meter. It comes in a comfortable, compact size and can provide quick, accurate scanning of either lumber or wood flooring. This meter is worth buying.
Pros
- One of the most accurate meters we tested for measuring wood moisture.
- Features 7-year manufacturer’s warranty and exceptional customer service.
- Eliminates interference from surface moisture.
- Simple, easy-to-use controls.
- Measurement range is from 5% to 32% moisture content (MC).
Cons
- No backlight display.
- No audible or visual alarm.
- Species adjustment for standard specific gravity range only.
Objective Evaluation – Overall Score 4.6 out of 5.0
Accuracy – 4.7 out of 5.0
This meter showed very accurate readings from 5% through 17% MC when compared to ASTM D-4442 oven dry measurements. Accuracy began to fall off from 17% through 30% MC.
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Surface Moisture – 5.0 out of 5.0
Surface moisture does not affect this meter’s readings.
Learn about our surface moisture test procedures
Meter Temperature – 4.7 out of 5.0
Meter temperature had a small effect on this meter’s readings. A low meter temperature of 34.8° F in the presence of low MC increased the reading by 0.5% compared to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading increased 1.2%. A high meter temperature of 110° F in the presence of low MC lowered the reading by 0.7% compared to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading decreased by only 0.2%.
Learn about our meter temperature test procedures
Wood Temperature – 4.0 out of 5.0
Wood temperature had some effect on this meter’s readings, particularly when the MC of the wood was higher. A low wood temperature of 33.6° F in the presence of low MC lowered the reading by 0.5% compared to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading dropped 1.8%. A high wood temperature of 110° F in the presence of low MC increased the reading by 0.5% compared to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the reading increased 2.4%
Learn about our wood temperature test procedures
Reading Repeatability – 5.0 out of 5.0
The Wagner MMC210 meter readings were repeatable.
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Drift – 5.0 out of 5.0
This meter did not drift after the first 3 seconds of measurement.
Cable Interference – N/A
Because this meter is pinless we could not perform the cable interference test.
Learn about our cable interference and drift testing procedures
Subjective Evaluation – Overall Score 4.0 out of 5.0
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Ease of Use – 3.8 out of 5.0
With only two buttons to push for on/off and species settings, this meter is simple to operate with very little reference to the manual needed to get started. Documentation in the manual is clear and easy to understand.
Quality – 4.3 out of 5.0
Manufactured in the USA. Built using the highest quality-control standards, this meter is unlikely to malfunction or break with normal use.
Comfort – 4.0 out of 5.0
Being compact in size it fits comfortably in a jacket pocket and comes with a durable, soft case. Large, easy-to-read display.
Versatility – 3.0 out of 5.0
This is a single-mode meter (pinless), which is typical. Capable of internal species correction once specific gravity is entered. Measures wood moisture in softwood and hardwood species with specific gravity from 0.30 to 0.70.
Range – 5.0 out of 5.0
Reads MC from 5% to 30%. Easily and accurately measures moisture at very low moisture levels down to 5%.
Features – 3.2 out of 5.0
Readings precise to the nearest 0.1%. Low battery indicator. Measures moisture deep in the wood without surface moisture interference. Simple, easy-to-use controls including a HOLD feature that enables the user to operate meter in tight places and “freeze” MC readings whenever display can’t be seen.
Customer Service – 5.0 out of 5.0
Customer service appears very knowledgeable and is able to answer all questions about the cost of repair, turnaround time, etc. The person we talked with was pleasant and his tone of voice gave the impression he genuinely wanted to help. Fast response to both email and telephone inquiries. Manual available online.
Warranty, repairs and calibration:
7-year warranty covers product defects or if the device is out of calibration. Repair comes with a 90-day warranty Wagner doesn’t sell replacement parts except for battery cover Turnaround time is 3-5 business days. The user can purchase a device to check calibration.
Our review is based on Moisture Meter Experts independent evaluation of the meter, which was purchased by Moisture Meter Experts or provided free of charge by the manufacturer. By purchasing this meter through the links above, Moisture Meter Experts may be compensated either by your purchase directly from Moisture Meter Experts or from commissions from an affiliate. View our Review Procedures section to learn more about our proprietary evaluation procedure and expertise in the field of moisture meters.