Best Drywall Moisture Meter: Top 5 in 2024 [Accurate Reading]

Last Updated on February 1, 2023

Drywalls may look harmless, but too much moisture lurking inside can cause real problems. Swelling, cracking, warping and other structural damage are all headaches you want to avoid.

An excellent method for determining the moisture content of drywall is to use the best drywall moisture meter. But how do you choose one?

Think about its accuracy, whether it can detect water, and how far it can read. Efficiency and speed are also vital considerations. If it’s been inactive for a long time, does it automatically turn off, or does it beep when a set level is reached? Knowing this information will help you determine how dependable the meter is and how long it’s likely to last.

We’ll break down the top 5 drywall moisture meters and all the details you need to know. Our guide will also give valuable tips to ensure you select a drywall moisture meter that meets your requirements. So, let’s get going.

Best Drywall Moisture Meter: 3 Editor’s Choice

5 Top Drywall Moisture Meters Expert Reviews

The easiest way to measure drywall’s moisture content is with a reliable and accurate moisture meter. Here we’ll take a look at the features and benefits of each device to help you decide which one is right for your needs.

1. General Tools MMD4E Digital Drywall Moisture Meter

Need a reliable tool for measuring the moisture levels in your building materials? General Tools MMD4E has got you covered. This device has many features that make the job easier, faster, and wiser. Let’s take a look at what this product has to offer.

Sturdy and Accurate Design

The General tools MMD4E digital drywall moisture meter is designed to deliver reliable readings for wood, drywall, building materials, and even concrete. It features a quality plastic body with an ergonomic shape that comfortably fits your hand. And the pin-type probe measures moisture levels quickly and accurately without leaving behind unsightly holes or marks.

Detects Wet/Water Levels

This meter is particularly useful when conducting water damage assessments on drywall. Its advanced technology senses moisture up to 0.75 inches deep into the material so you can identify problem areas before they cause further damage.

Its digital display shows both relative humidity (RH) and temperature readings making it easy to track changes over time and spot potential problems early on in the process.

Get a Wide Range of Readings

The MMD4E offers different measurement ranges depending on the tested material, including wood 5 to 50% and building materials 1.5 to 33%. This allows you to get accurate readings of both moist and dry materials without switching between modes or settings each time you want to test something new.

Work Faster and Smarter

With its backlit LCD screen and simple one-handed operation, you can work faster than ever with this device. The built-in auto shut-off feature also conserves energy by turning off after ±10 minutes when not in use, so you don’t have to worry about draining your battery unnecessarily during long days on the job.

Keep An Eye On Moisture Levels

You can use it to check the moisture levels in materials like sheetrock or gypsum board without breaking through walls or ceilings. With this device’s help, it’s easy to identify potential problems early before they become bigger later down the line. Plus, its RH/temperature dual function allows users to track changes over time so they can adjust accordingly if needed.

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2. METTLER Moisture Meter for Drywall

Measuring wood, drywall, and other material’s moisture content is easy with the METTLER moisture meter. It has several features that make it an ideal tool for preventing mold, preserving wood integrity, and maintaining adequate building conditions.

No Pins to Break or Damage Your Wood

The METTLER moisture meter has a special probe that can measure how much moisture is in wood without having to break the surface of the wood. This is different from other meters that use a pin to penetrate the wood, which can damage it. This means you do not have to worry about potential damage from the METTLER moisture meter when measuring goods.

The First Step to Preventing Mold

Because high humidity levels in materials can lead to mold formation, using a reliable METTLER moisture meter for drywall is key to preventing this issue. Knowing precisely how much water is present in a material helps ensure that any necessary steps to prevent mold are taken as quickly as possible before it becomes an issue.

Measures Hardwood and Softwood Moisture

This moisture meter has two scales for hardwood and softwood readings, so you can ensure you get accurate readings regardless of what material you need to measure. This saves time since you don’t have to switch between different settings on your device depending on what type of wood you’re testing.

Quick and Easy Way to Measure Wood Moisture

The METTLER moisture meter makes it easy and quick to accurately measure wood moisture levels without taking too much time out of your day or project schedule. It’s also very easy to use, so even if you don’t have experience using such devices, you should understand how their functions work within minutes.

Portable and Convenient

The portability offered by METTLER’s moisture meter makes it an excellent choice for those who want something they can take anywhere they go without having to worry about lugging around bulky equipment with them all the time. Its small size also makes it convenient for storing it away after use so that it doesn’t take up too much room in your tool chest or bag when not needed.

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3. Klein Tools ET140 Pinless Moisture Meter for Drywall

Transform how you measure drywall moisture with Klein Tools ET140 pinless moisture meter. Its innovative design includes an auto power-off function, reverse contrast display, and a user-friendly LED screen to ensure accurate readings every time.

Detect Humidity Content

The Klein tools ET140 moisture meter utilizes innovative technology to detect humidity content in drywall accurately. It uses a pinless sensor that doesn’t penetrate the surface, allowing it to provide readings between 5% to 50% without drilling into the wall or causing any other type of damage.

Nondestructive Detection

The Klein tools ET140 pinless moisture meter for drywall is equipped with a pinless detection system which allows it to read up to 3/4 inch deep without needing to drill into the surface or cause any damage. This makes it ideal for quick and accurate moisture measurements in various building materials, including wood, concrete, and drywall.

Reverse Contrast Display

The Klein Tools ET140 utilizes a reverse contrast display with high visibility that allows users to read readings even from a distance away easily. This feature makes it perfect for use in large spaces or difficult-to-reach areas since users can always get precise readings from their devices no matter where they are in the room.

Auto Power Off Function

One of the best features of the Klein Tools ET140 is its auto power-off function which helps conserve battery life when not in use. This means that users will not worry about forgetting to turn off their device after each measurement. The device automatically shuts down when non-use and has a very low battery consumption rate.

Easy-To-Read LED Display 

With its easy-to-read LED display, the ET140 shows both percentage values and green/red indicators, so you can see if there’s excess moisture in walls before further analysis. Moreover, this LED display also displays low battery warnings, so users know when it’s time to recharge their device.

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4. Dr.Meter Moisture Sensor Detector Meter for Drywall

The Dr.Meter moisture meter for drywall is an excellent tool for accurately detecting and measuring the amount of moisture in walls. With two scanning methods, pin-type and pinless, users can determine the current ambient temperature and detect wet and dry areas.

Pin-Type and Pinless Scanning

The Dr.Meter meter has two scanning methods: pin-type and pinless, allowing users to quickly detect moisture levels in both visible and hidden areas of walls. A pin-type method uses a hard probe tip to measure humidity in cracks or between tiles. The pinless method does not need to touch the wall surfaces to measure the humidity level.

Measure the Current Ambient Temperature

In addition to measuring various types of moisture levels in walls, the Dr.Meter also features a temperature sensor that measures the ambient temperature of an environment. This helps provide an even more accurate reading of humidity levels than other tools on the market, allowing users to pinpoint problem areas before they become serious issues.

Displays Wet and Dry Areas Clearly

Using the LCD screen on the Dr.Meter, users can see where there may be excess moisture present without having to guess or take multiple readings. By identifying potential problems early, homeowners can avoid more severe damage and save time and money on costly repairs later. 

Compact and Easy To Use 

The compact size of the Dr.Meter moisture sensor detector meter for drywall makes it easy to use even in tight places like behind toilets or beneath sinks. Plus, its ergonomic design helps reduce fatigue when being used for long periods by providing an easy grip handle with a convenient trigger switch located at your fingertips for engaging scans when necessary.

Reasonably Priced 

This device is good because it can help you find wet spots in walls. It is also cheaper than other similar devices, which makes it a good deal for people who are looking for something reliable and budget-friendly. One good thing about this device is that you don’t need to calibrate it before using it. This means that you can start using it right away.

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5. Extech MO55 Pinless Drywall Moisture Meter

Discover unprecedented accuracy in detecting and measuring moisture levels with the Extech MO55 pinless drywall moisture meter. Take advantage of this user-friendly instrument’s innovative features to get an accurate read on walls made from drywall more quickly than ever. 

Dual Moisture Detection Methods

The Extech MO55 pinless moisture meter offers pin and pinless options for measuring the moisture content in a material. This versatility allows users to detect and measure moisture levels in hard-to-reach areas where pins may not be able to reach. It also allows users to select the most appropriate method depending on their situation.

Quickly Read Moisture Levels With Icons

This drywall moisture meter includes unique icons that allow users to determine the relative moisture level in a material at a glance. These icons give you an indication of whether or not additional action needs to be taken to address any potential water damage issues.

The Beeping Feature Helps Find Leaks

In addition to providing quick visual readings via its icons, this device also has a built-in beeping feature that can help you pinpoint leaks or other sources of water penetration more precisely. This instrument allows users to monitor walls or ceilings for weak spots that could cause water to come inside.

Easy-To-Use Design with A Large LCD Screen 

The Extech MO55 drywall moisture meter boasts an ergonomic design for easy handling, along with three buttons for user control. Its large LCD allows for clear readings and features backlighting, so it can be used even in low-light conditions.

Compact Size for Easy Handling  

This practical tool comes compact, which makes it easy to transport and store when not used onsite. It is lightweight enough that it can be carried around without feeling too bulky while still offering reliable results due to its advanced detection capabilities.

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Comparative Table of the Best Moisture Meters for Drywall and Wood

Product	Color	Size	Battery Cell Type	Item Weight
General	Gray	Pin Type	Zinc Carbon	‎5.6 Ounces
METTLER	Black	Pinless	Zinc Carbon	‎5.6 Ounces
Klein	Red	Pinless	Alkaline	7 Ounces
Dr.Meter	Multicolor	Pin/Pinless	Alkaline	9.6 Ounces
Extech	Matte Green	Pin/Pinless	Alkaline	4.2 Ounces

How to Choose the Best Moisture Meter for Drywall?

Choosing the right moisture meter for drywall is an important task, as it can help you to identify potential problems before they become significant issues. Before shopping for a moisture meter, you must know what features you should look for.

01: Types of Drywall Moisture Meters

When choosing a moisture meter for drywall, it is crucial to consider the types available.

Pin-type Moisture Meters

These are designed with two metal pins that measure electrical resistance in the material being tested. They are typically used to measure moisture content in hardwood and other materials, but they can be used on the drywall as well.

Pinless Moisture Meters

These moisture meters use radio waves to measure electrical resistance, so they do not leave any marks on the material tested. They are great for measuring drywall because they provide accurate results without leaving any visible damage.

Finally, some models combine pin and pinless technology into one meter, providing a comprehensive solution for measuring drywall moisture levels.

02: Accuracy and Precision

The accuracy and precision of the moisture meter chosen should also be taken into consideration when selecting a model for drywall testing.

Accuracy refers to how closely the results of the test match up to real-world conditions. Precision is how close together multiple readings from the same test will be. It is crucial to choose a model that is both accurate and precise to get reliable results from your tests.

03: Wet/Water Detection

Many models will include settings that allow users to set thresholds for wetness detection. This allows them to accurately identify areas where excessive moisture is present in the drywall before it causes further damage or mold growth.

It is crucial to select a model with these features if you expect your tests will involve looking for wet areas in addition to measuring overall moisture levels in drywall material.

04: Readings Range

Most models will provide both relative humidity (RH) percentages and specific gravities (SG). RH readings indicate how much water vapor is present compared with the maximum amount possible in the air at a given temperature.

SG measures the weight per volume of solid particles present compared with water at 5°C temperature. Knowing which range each model offers can help you select one best suited for your specific needs when testing drywall materials.

05: Speed and Efficiency

Moisture meters tend to have varying degrees of speed and accuracy. There are more expensive models that can provide readings in a matter of seconds, while cheaper devices may take longer to calculate the moisture levels within the drywall.

Also, some advanced devices may provide additional features such as temperature readings or water vapor permeability measurements. It is essential to choose a device that has high accuracy and can provide quick results to ensure optimal efficiency when measuring the drywall’s moisture content.

06: Protection of Wood Surfaces

When looking for a moisture meter for drywall, it’s also important to consider if the device can protect from damaging wood surfaces due to high humidity levels.

Some modern instruments come with probes equipped with protective shields that cover up any exposed wood when they are used, thus protecting them from potential damage due to excessive moisture levels.

In addition, newer devices also tend to have built-in sensors that detect high humidity levels and alert users when the wood surface reaches dangerous levels before causing irreparable damage.

Choosing one such device will help ensure protection against any potentially damaging effects due to high moisture levels in drywall.

07: Portability and Convenience

Most modern meters come with handheld designs which enable easy maneuvering around large areas and make them suitable for use in cramped spaces or other hard-to-reach areas. And many of these devices come with an array of features, including LCDs or backlit screens, which make them easier to read even in dimly lit areas or locations with poor lighting conditions.

If you want your meter to be accurate and give you good readings, it is worth spending a little extra money on features that will make it more portable and easier to use.

08: Auto Power Off Functionality

This feature allows the device to turn off automatically after it has not been used for a long time. It helps conserve battery life and ensures the device is not constantly left on.

The auto power-off feature also ensures that the readings taken are accurate and reliable, as they will not be affected by any potential changes in environmental factors while the meter is left on.

09: Beeping Feature for Alert

The beeping feature of a moisture meter is another helpful feature when selecting one for use with drywall. A beeping alert will sound when an area reaches a certain level of moisture, allowing you to quickly identify areas of high saturation or potential problems before they become more severe issues.

Look for a model with adjustable beep levels so that you can customize it to your preferences and needs. Make sure to test out the beeping feature before purchase to ensure that it functions properly and gives clear indications when needed.

10: Durability, Reliability, and Longevity

You want to ensure the device is constructed from quality components and materials so it can stand up to regular use and wear and tear over time without losing accuracy or function. It should also have features like shock absorption or rubberized edges, which will help protect against accidental impact damage while in use.

Also, look for models with warranties which will ensure that your investment is covered if any unforeseen issues arise within a specific amount of time after purchase.

All these combined will give you peace of mind knowing that your chosen model will reliably provide accurate results in the future.

How Do You Tell If You Have Moisture in Your Drywalls?

Determining whether there is moisture in your drywall can be done by using a moisture meter. This device typically features pin-type or pinless technology and can easily indicate the presence and levels of moisture contained within the drywall.

Knowing how to use the meter correctly will help you identify potential problems with your drywall, as well as determine if remedial steps are necessary.

Pin-type meters have metal pins that must be inserted into the wall material for accurate readings. In contrast, pinless meters use electromagnetic waves to detect moisture levels without making any physical contact with the drywall.

What Is an Acceptable Percentage of Moisture for Drywall?

When measuring the moisture in drywall, it is essential to adhere to an acceptable percentage range. According to most experts, this range should fall between 5% and 12%.

Anything higher than this could signal a problem, such as water damage or dampness, that requires attention. Taking readings with a moisture meter will give you an accurate indication of what level your walls are at and whether further action needs to be taken.

Should You Use a Pin or Pinless Moisture Meter for Drywall?

When undertaking tests on drywall regarding moisture content, both pin-type and pinless moisture meters can be used with great accuracy.

But when it comes to assessing the humidity levels in walls, many professionals suggest opting for a device featuring pin-type technology as it gives more accurate results than its pinless counterpart.

And if you have access to the best pinless moisture meter for drywall featuring advanced technology, these may also prove beneficial in testing optimal moisture conditions before starting any repair work on your walls.

Can Moisture Meters Give False Readings for Drywall? 

Yes, moisture meters can give false readings when used on drywall because of metal materials such as corner beads, screws, nails, pipes, or old plaster underneath the wall’s surface.

To prevent this from occurring, it’s important to ensure that any area being tested is free of these materials before taking measurements. And if one area is giving false readings, it might be worthwhile trying another spot to get accurate results. 

Will Drywall Mold Show Up On a Moisture Meter? 

No, a moisture meter cannot detect mold, but it can identify areas where high moisture levels are present, which could lead to mold growth. Regular readings with a moisture meter help identify any potential issues with water damage or rising dampness early on so they can be addressed quickly before more severe damage occurs. 

Is It Worth Buying a Moisture Meter for Drywall? 

A moisture meter is a good investment, especially if you live in an area that often floods or have an older home with plumbing issues. The best drywall moisture meter can quickly and accurately tell you how much humidity is in your walls, which is helpful information.

Moisture meters help you during renovation projects. They help you see how the project is going and if there are any problems. This way, you can fix the problem before it gets worse. From pin-type meters to pinless/all-in-one devices, there’s sure to be something for everyone.

But when we complete this post for you, we want to remind you that the MMD4E digital drywall moisture meter from General Tools will give you the most consistent and accurate readings. Now is the time to invest in a quality moisture meter.