Klein Tools MM720 Digital Multimeter review is it the best for electricians?

Description

Design and Build Quality

The Klein Tools MM720 Digital Multimeter immediately stands out with its robust and practical design. The orange and black color scheme is both visually appealing and functional, allowing for high visibility in busy or dimly lit environments. I really appreciated the compact dimensions (10.63 x 5.87 x 3.73 inches) and its lightweight build at only 12.17 ounces, which made it convenient to carry around during my testing. The durable construction, with an impressive CAT IV 600V and IP42 rating, gave me confidence in its ability to handle tough environments. It even survived a few accidental drops, thanks to its 6.6-foot drop resistance. The addition of a kickstand and optional magnetic hanger compatibility (Cat. Nos. 69445 or 69417) made hands-free operation a breeze, especially when dealing with intricate setups.

Performance and Accuracy

As someone who tests electrical systems regularly, I found the auto-ranging True Root Mean Squared (TRMS) technology to be a game-changer. It delivered precise and accurate measurements consistently, whether I was working on residential wiring or automotive systems. The device measures AC/DC voltage up to 1000V, 10A AC/DC current, and resistance up to 60MΩ, which covered nearly all my needs. I was also impressed by its ability to handle continuity tests, temperature measurements, capacitance, frequency/duty cycles, and even diode tests. The Low Impedance (LoZ) mode was particularly useful for identifying and eliminating ghost or stray voltages, something that saved me time and frustration during troubleshooting.

Reverse-Contrast Display

One feature that really stood out was the reverse-contrast LCD display. With an optical sensor that adjusts visibility based on ambient lighting, I never had to strain my eyes, whether I was working outside in bright sunlight or inside a dimly lit panel box. This high-visibility screen made it much easier to read measurements quickly, reducing the chances of errors.

Positives

• Durable construction, with IP42 rating and 6.6-foot drop resistance, ensures longevity.
• TRMS technology provides highly accurate measurements across various applications.
• Reverse-contrast display improves visibility in all lighting conditions.
• Wide range of measurements, including voltage, current, resistance, capacitance, and more.
• Low Impedance mode effectively eliminates ghost voltages.

Versatility in Use

What I loved most about this digital multimeter was its versatility across different applications. Whether I was testing HVAC systems, automotive circuits, or industrial machinery, it performed flawlessly. The test lead holders on the back were a thoughtful addition, keeping everything organized as I moved from task to task. Even the inclusion of a thermocouple was a pleasant surprise; it allowed me to measure temperatures with accuracy, which is essential for certain types of diagnostics.

Areas for Improvement

Despite its many strengths, there were a few areas for improvement.

• The carrying case, while functional, felt somewhat flimsy and didn’t offer much protection for the multimeter.
• I noticed the lack of an included magnetic hanger, which would have been convenient for hands-free use.
• While the battery-powered design is expected, it would have been nice to see a rechargeable option for added convenience.

Competing Products

When comparing this multimeter to Fluke 117 or Extech EX330, the Klein Tools MM720 holds its own in many respects. The Fluke model is renowned for its durability and precision, but it’s significantly pricier and lacks features like the reverse-contrast display. Meanwhile, the Extech EX330 is more affordable but doesn’t offer the same level of ruggedness or advanced features like LoZ mode. The Klein model strikes a great balance between durability, performance, and affordability, making it a strong contender for professionals and hobbyists alike.

Financial Value

In terms of cost-effectiveness, this multimeter offers a lot of bang for the buck. While it’s not the cheapest option on the market, the combination of advanced features, durability, and ease of use makes it worth the investment. I found myself relying on it more than other tools in my kit, which speaks volumes about its value proposition.

Overall, the Klein Tools MM720 Digital Multimeter is an impressive tool that delivers on its promises. While it has a few minor flaws, its durability, accuracy, and versatility make it a reliable choice for anyone in need of a professional-grade multimeter.

Additional information