An auto-ranging, average RMS-responding DMM, the Klein Tools MM600 is a decent all-round tool for many of those interested in electrics. It sits somewhere between the MM400 and MM700 on usability, feature-set and price, and although not a super-accurate device bursting with functions, it easily does what is asked of it.
Measures: Everything from DC volts (1000V) and amps (10A) to capacitance, frequency and temperature. It is sturdily built and is good in the home and factory environments, though might not appeal to those looking to measure larger capacitors or high temperatures.
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Key Features
- Voltage: 1000V
- Current: 10A
- Resistance: 40MΩ
- Capacitance: 1000µF
- Temperature: °F and °C
- Average RMS
- CAT-IV rating
- Easy to access battery box
- Weight: 14.6 oz (414g)
- Size: 7″ x 3.5″ x 2.1″ (178 x 90 x 53mm)
Included
- Leads & crocodile clips
- AAA batteries
- Thermocouple
- Carry pouch
- Instructions – MM600 manual
Optional: Magnetic hanger
More Details of the Klein MM600
The self-styled ‘Tough Meter’ lives up to its moniker, being sturdy as well as having nice lines. It is well made and easy to use and will assist you in diagnosing most things. It has the quality build of other Klein Tools multimeters and yet is one of their cheaper devices.
For the MM700 and MM400, see here and here.
The Klein MM600 auto ranges to pinpoint a signal as with most other meters on the market today. The Range button lets you manual range for more hands-on, faster results. While the auto ranging is a time-saver, as with others of this price range, it does take some time to settle.
All amperage scales are represented – including milliamps and micro-amps – having their own dial positions respectively. The Select button switches between AC and DC, and there are separate inputs for high amps and low amps.
Along with voltage, current, resistance, diode testing, capacitance, frequency and continuity, there is also temperature on the MM600. It can display both Fahrenheit and Celsius – switch between these with the Select button.
This is a good troubleshooting device that will easily handle any domestic chores, and can stand up to a certain amount of abuse out in the field. The testing of socket outlets, batteries, light switches, auto circuitry, solar powered battery banks, motors, circuit board components, and so on, is well within this tool’s remit.
In addition: Leads and crocodile clips are of a decent quality and the included temperature probe is usable. Also included is a user-friendly manual.
ACCURACY SPECS
| range | Accuracy | resolution | |
|---|---|---|---|
| DC volts | 400mV / 1000V | ±(1.0%+3) @ 4-400V | 0.1mV-1V |
| AC volts | 4V / 1000V | ±(1.5%+5) @ 400-1000V | 1mV-1V |
| DC amps | 400µA / 10A | ±(1.0%+3) @ 400µA-400mA | 0.1µA-0.01A |
| AC amps | 400µA / 10A | ±(1.5%+3) @ 400µA-400mA | 0.1µA-0.01A |
| Resistance | 400Ω / 40MΩ | ±(2.0%+10) @ 4-40MΩ | 0.1Ω-10kΩ |
| Capacitance | 40nF / 1000µF | ±(3.0%+5) @ 400nF-400µF | 10pF-1µF |
| Frequency | 10Hz / 500kHz | ±(1.0%+5) | 0.001Hz-100Hz |
| Duty cycle | 1% to 99% | ±(1.2%+2) | 0.1% |
| Temperature °F | 0 to 1000 | ±(2.0%+9°F) | 0.1°F-1°F |
| Temperature °C | -18 to 538 | ±(2.0%+5°C) | 0.1°C-1°C |
Differences between the MM600 and MM700
The MM700 has:
- True RMS
- Higher temp range (to 1500°F)
- Low impedance mode
- Higher capacitance (to 4000μF)
- Bar graph
Design & Build
Klein is a good US brand. Its meters are well known in the electrical world; they’ve been churning them out for decades and know what they’re doing. With that, the Klein Tools MM600 build quality shouldn’t disappoint. Built to withstand a six-foot drop onto the deck, for one, it comes with a chunky case and holster. The dial is rugged and yet easy to turn, while the batteries and fuses are simple to replace via a compartment.
Display: The MM series of Klein meters doesn’t come with a super-high resolution screen. They are of a standard variety, measuring to 4000-counts (up to 3999Ω, for example) – though they are large and clear to read. The screen is also backlit. Sampling rate is three times a second and you get all relevant units displayed. Among the standard digits and units on screen are over-limit ‘OL’ and negative polarity ‘-’.
Functions/Performance
There’s a lot of functionality, including Max/Min, relative mode, screen hold and ranging. Each of these increases usability for monitoring and deciphering signals more accurately. You also get an auto-off that comes into play after around 30 minutes of non-use. For the geeks out there, the continuity check beeper sounds at <50Ω resistance. As mentioned, the MM600 isn’t going to break any speed records; well, nothing will at this price range. Continuity and auto-range speeds will always be an issue until you get into the >$100-$200 area. It is still timely enough, however, and is reliable.
Safety
Mechanically, a tough rubber holster sits over toughened plastics, lending the Klein Tools MM600 a drop-proof rating. Electrically, Klein’s incorporate industry standard HRC type fuses to protect the current circuitry. Along with strong electronic components, gives this meter a CAT-IV rating at 600V energies. Category 4 pertains to mains (low voltage) source at the building, and everything behind the switch gear.
Pros and Cons
PROS
- Brand name
- Tough build
- All amperage inputs
- Measures temp
- Includes crocodile clips and thermocouple
- Backlit screen
CONS
- Not True RMS
- No bar graph
- Could be quicker on continuity
Conclusion
Many people pick Klein when their budget doesn’t extend to Fluke, or indeed as a viable alternative. The Klein Tools MM600 is quite capable at measuring high voltage and current and is good for the field or around the home.
There are tougher builds out there for hardier environments of course – like the MM700 (which also has a low impedance mode) – but this is a great all-rounder at an attractive price.