We take pride in our testing standards. Read more about that here.
The Wagner MMC205 is well-suited for applications that require moisture measurement precision only to the nearest one percent. It provides very accurate readings for wood with moisture content (MC) at 17% and below. It is a pinless meter that measures moisture without damaging the wood surface and without interference from surface moisture.
Lightweight and easy to operate, this meter is designed to measure moisture in common softwoods and hardwoods with a standard specific gravity range. Fast, repeatable readings allow quick and accurate scanning of lumber or wood flooring.
Although lacking some features, this meter’s speed and accuracy still make it worth buying for many applications.
Pros
- Gives very accurate measurements in the 5% to 17% range.
- 7-year manufacturer’s warranty and exceptional customer service.
- Minimizes interference from surface moisture.
- Fast, simple, and very easy to use, with one-button control.
Cons
- Unable to measure MC above 20%.
- No backlight display or alarm.
- Precision only to the nearest 1%.
- Species adjustment for standard specific gravity range only.
Objective Evaluation – Overall Score 4.4 out of 5.0
Accuracy – 4.4 out of 5.0
The Wagner MMC205 meter provided very accurate readings from 5% through 17% MC when compared to ASTM D-4442 oven dry standards. Accuracy decreased from 17% through the end of its range at 20% MC.
Learn about our accuracy test procedures
Surface Moisture – 4.0 out of 5.0
Surface moisture had a small effect on this meter’s readings.
Learn about our surface moisture test procedures
Meter Temperature – 4.5 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 showed the reading increased by 1% compared to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the meter was unable to give a reading since its range extends only to 20% MC.
A high meter temperature of 110° F in the presence of low MC saw a reading identical to the room temperature reading. In the presence of high MC, the meter was unable to give a reading since its range extends only to 20% MC.
Learn about our meter temperature test procedures
Wood Temperature – 4.5 out of 5.0
Wood temperature in the presence of low MC had no effect on this meter’s readings. In the presence of high MC, the meter was unable to provide a reading since its range extends only to 20%.
Learn about our wood temperature test procedures
Reading Repeatability – 5.0 out of 5.0
The Wagner MMC205 meter readings were repeatable.
Learn about our repeatability testing procedures
Drift – 5.0 out of 5.0
This meter’s readings showed no drift after 3 seconds.
Cable Interference – N/A
Since the Wagner MMC205 is a pinless meter, a cable interference test could not be conducted.
Learn about our cable interference and drift testing procedures
Subjective Evaluation – Overall Score 3.7 out of 5.0
Learn about our subjective testing procedures
Ease of Use – 3.5 out of 5.0
With only one button to push, this meter is fast and simple to operate with only minimal use of 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. This meter is unlikely to break with normal use.
Comfort – 4.0 out of 5.0
Compact size 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 adjustment once specific gravity is entered. Measures wood moisture in common softwood and hardwood species with a standard specific gravity range of 0.30 to 0.70.
Range – 3.7 out of 5.0
Measures MC from 5% to 20%. Accurately measures wood with very low MC down to 5%. However, this meter is not designed for measuring wood with high MC above 20%.
Features – 2.5 out of 5.0
Readings precise only to the nearest 1%. Low battery indicator. Measures moisture deep in the wood without surface moisture interference. Simple to use with one-button control that allows easy programming of specific gravity with a couple of keystrokes. Lacks a HOLD function for use in tight spaces where the display cannot be easily viewed.
Customer Service – 5.0 out of 5.0
Customer service appears very knowledgeable and is able to answer all questions about how to request a return authorization, 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.