The chunky, funky-looking Klein Tools MM700 digital multimeter was built for both professional and amateur work. It is priced well enough to be appealing to the domestic market and can easily test anything from solar units to CAT-IV, three phase power circuits. Klein is a solid US make and the MM700 has most functions, such as amperage, capacitance, temperature and a low impedance mode.
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Main Features
- Auto / manual ranging
- Measures AC/DC voltage to 1000V
- Measures AC/DC current to 10A
- True RMS (TRMS) for better AC accuracy
- Resistance to 40MΩ
- Capacitance, frequency and duty cycle
- Handy temperature input
- Continuity and diode tests
- CAT-IV 600V rating
- Low Impedance (LoZ) mode
- Dimensions: 7″ (178mm) x 3.5″ (89mm) x 2.1″ (53mm)
- Weight: 14.6oz (414g)
What’s Included
- Meter
- Probe leads
- Batteries (x2 AAA)
- Thermocouple
- Alligator clips
- Carry case
- User manual (online pdf here)
Complete Review of the MM700
SPECS
| Range | accuracy | resolution | |
|---|---|---|---|
| AC voltage | 4V / 1000V | ±(1.2%+5) @ 40V | 1mV-1V |
| DC voltage | 400mV / 1000V | ±(1.0%+3) @ 4-400V | 0.1mV-1V |
| AC current | 400µA / 10A | ±(1.5%+3) | 0.1µA-0.01A |
| DC current | 400µA / 10A | ±(1.0%+3) | 0.1µA-0.01A |
| Resistance | 400Ω / 40MΩ | ±(1.5%+5) @ 400Ω-400kΩ | 0.1Ω-10kΩ |
| Frequency | 10Hz / 500kHz | ±(1.0%+5) | 0.001-100Hz |
| Capacitance | 40nF / 4000µF | ±(3.0%+5) @ 400nF-400µF | 10pF-1µF |
| Duty cycle | 1% to 99% | ±(1.2%+2) | 0.1% |
| Temperature °F | 0 / 1500 | ±(2.0%+9°F) | 0.1-1°F |
| Temperature °C | -18 / 538 | ±(2.0%+5°C) | 0.1-1°C |
The pricing of the Klein Tools MM700 is quite attractive considering the range of features and functions. You get most of the test ranges of a standard multimeter, such as voltage and amperage, along with functions of more advanced ones, like MAX/MIN and low impedance.
Range, accuracy and resolution across most test criteria are pretty good. For example, resistance measures down to single-digit ohms, up to 40MΩ, and a resolution of 0.1Ω in the best case scenario. Capacitance extends down to the nano-farad range
This is an auto-ranging multimeter, so you don’t need to select individual ranges, though have the option to manual-range also. Most dial positions have extra functions, selectable via a mode (SELECT) button. To switch between DC and AC micro-amps, for instance, depress SEL.
Modes: Another useful function for those monitoring a circuit is MAX/MIN, which keeps account of high/low values. One might be monitoring current draw, for example, and can see the high and low reading. It’ll also produce refreshed upper and lower values in real-time. The LoZ (low impedance) mode is also very useful in the scenario where you are trying to determine voltage in a given circuit, where nearby cores might induce spurious ‘ghost’ voltages in the one being tested.
Design & Build
Klein doesn’t scrimp on build quality and the Klein Tools MM700 is meaty and durable. The case and holster are rugged and, although not touted as an industrial-strength multimeter, it looks fit for hardy environments. It’s been drop tested to 6’6” (2m) and has an ingress protection of IP42. Fuses and batteries are easily accessed by a single panel without having to open up the case.
Screen: At 4000 counts (or 3 3/4 digit), the resolution of the Klein MM700 is nothing to write home about. The display does have a backlight, however, which stays on for around three minutes. There is also a responsive bar graph. This sits underneath the main display and shows analog-style response that refreshes around a dozen times per second.
Performance of the MM700
Speed wise, you don’t get the responsiveness on continuity and auto ranging that Fluke is known for. Capacitance in particular may take time on larger capacitors. To save battery life, there is an auto-off feature. Often overlooked even by seasoned electricians, it kicks in after around 30 minutes of non-use. You also get a low battery life indicator.
Safety Rating
Two fuses protect the Klein MM700; a 10A fuse for the high amps circuit and a 500mA fuse for the μA/mA circuit. The safe measuring category of the MM700 is to CAT-IV 600V, which lends it a theoretical surge protection value of 8kV.
Pros and Cons
PROS
- Tough multimeter
- Temperature input and micro-amps, ideal for HVAC work
- Good price for a Klein device
- Package includes alligator clips
- MAX/MIN & manual ranging mode
- Backlit screen
CONS
- Fairly slow on continuity/ranging
Conclusion
This meter has an excellent rating on Amazon, being voted up for its range of features, the accuracy and its reliability. Although not a direct competitor of Fluke, if you’re after a cheap alternative to the likes of their 28II range, this is a decent option.
Alternatives: The tougher Klein MM6000 is a better bet for those into heavier industry, while the MM1000 and MM600 are options if you don’t need True RMS.