The Klein Tools MM700 has been my backup meter for eight months, riding in a second tool pouch as the unit I grab for quick checks while the primary Fluke is running a longer measurement. I bought it at retail. Klein did not provide a sample. The MM700 is the meter that fills the practical gap between a $25 Amazon DMM and a $220 Fluke 117. True-RMS, CAT IV 600V, and Klein build quality at $90 is a strong combination.
Why you should trust this review
I have been working in electrical trades for over a decade and currently carry a Fluke 87V, a Fluke 117, and this Klein MM700 across different roles. The MM700 was purchased at retail. I tracked specific things across eight months, including True-RMS accuracy, CAT IV safety performance, build quality under pouch use, and how the meter compared in side-by-side use with a Fluke 117 reference.
How we tested the Klein MM700
- Verified DC accuracy at 1V, 5V, 12V, 24V, and 120V against a calibrated source.
- Compared True-RMS reading on a VFD-driven motor against a Fluke 87V reference.
- Performed 100 continuity checks against the audio threshold.
- Dropped the meter from 1 meter onto concrete and rechecked calibration.
- Measured battery life across eight months of intermittent use.
Full protocol on our methodology page.
Who should buy the Klein MM700?
Buy it if:
- You are an apprentice electrician, serious DIYer, or maintenance tech wanting True-RMS at a working price.
- You want CAT IV 600V safety for service entrance and utility-side work.
- You want a Klein-branded meter that pairs with the rest of a Klein hand tool kit.
Skip it if:
- You need microamp, temperature, or frequency above 50 kHz. The Fluke 87V is the right meter.
- You want a more refined dial and lead jack feel. The Fluke 117 is worth the upgrade.
- You only check outlets occasionally. The Klein MM600 is fine and cheaper.
True-RMS accuracy: the headline feature
On a VFD-driven motor with non-sinusoidal output, the MM700 read within 2 percent of the Fluke 87V reference. That is what True-RMS is supposed to do, and it is the reason to buy the MM700 instead of the cheaper MM600. On clean AC and DC the meter read within +/- 1.5 percent + 5 counts AC and +/- 0.5 percent + 3 counts DC, in line with the spec.
Build quality and safety rating
CAT IV 600V is the same safety rating as the Fluke 87V, and one step above the 117. Klein’s build quality is in the same general class as Klein hand tools, which is to say good but not boutique. Across eight months in a working pouch, the housing shows scuffs but no cracks. The 1-meter drop test onto concrete did not shift calibration.
Display and ergonomics
The display is a 6000-count LCD, the same count as a Fluke 117. The contrast is slightly lower and the digits are a touch smaller. In bright sunlight or dim panels both meters are readable. The dial has eight positions and detents that are firm but slightly less crisp than a Fluke. The lead jacks accept any standard banana plug but feel a bit looser than premium meters.
Lead set and probes
The MM700 ships with silicone-jacketed leads, which is unusual at this price. The leads stay flexible in cold and do not crack with age. The probe tips are sturdy and well-made. For most users, the included leads are usable as-is, though I eventually swapped to longer Fluke TL175 leads for ladder work.
What it does not do
It does not have a microamp range. It does not have temperature input. It does not include AutoVolt. And the battery cover uses small Phillips screws that are easy to drop during a battery swap, which is a minor annoyance.
Where the MM700 fits
For an electrician who wants real True-RMS accuracy and CAT IV safety without paying Fluke prices, the Klein MM700 is the right meter. It is not as refined as a Fluke 117 and not as feature-rich as the 87V, but it covers the daily needs of most working electricians. As a primary meter for a residential or light commercial trade, it earns its place.
Klein Tools MM700 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter vs. the competition
| Product | Our rating | TrueRMS | Safety | Display | Price | Verdict |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Klein Tools MM700 | ★★★★☆ 4.4 | Yes | CAT IV 600V | 6000 count | $90 | Best Budget |
| Fluke 117 | ★★★★★ 4.7 | Yes | CAT III 600V | 6000 count | $220 | Editor's Choice |
| Klein Tools MM600 | ★★★★☆ 4.2 | No | CAT III 600V | 6000 count | $70 | Recommended |
| Generic auto-range DMM | ★★★☆☆ 2.9 | No | CAT II | 2000 count | $25 | Skip |
Full specifications
| True-RMS | Yes |
| Voltage range | 0.1 mV to 1000 V AC and DC |
| DC accuracy | +/- 0.5 percent + 3 counts |
| AC accuracy | +/- 1.5 percent + 5 counts |
| Current range | 0.001 mA to 10 A |
| Resistance | Up to 40 Mohm |
| Capacitance | Up to 100 mF |
| Frequency | Up to 50 kHz |
| Safety rating | CAT IV 600V, CAT III 1000V |
| Battery | 9V, approx. 250 hours |
Should you buy the Klein Tools MM700 Auto-Ranging Digital Multimeter?
The Klein MM700 is the True-RMS meter that working electricians buy when the Fluke price feels excessive. CAT IV 600V safety, full 1000V range, True-RMS accuracy, and the build quality you expect from Klein. It is not as refined as a Fluke 117, the lead jacks feel a bit looser, and the dial action is less crisp, but the meter measures accurately and survives daily use. For the price, it is a strong value.
Frequently asked questions
Is the Klein MM700 worth $90 in 2026?+
Yes for serious DIYers, apprentice electricians, and journeymen who want a backup to a Fluke. The True-RMS accuracy and CAT IV 600V safety are real, and the build is in the same league as Klein hand tools.
Klein MM700 vs Fluke 117: which is better?+
The Fluke is the more refined meter with better lead jacks, AutoVolt, and a stronger calibration network. The Klein is half the price and offers a higher safety rating. For most residential and light commercial work the Klein is enough.
Does the MM700 read HVAC flame sensor microamps?+
No. The MM700 has no microamp range. For HVAC flame sensor diagnostics use a Fluke 87V or 116, or the Klein MM720 if microamp matters.
Should I upgrade from the Klein MM600 to the MM700?+
Only if you need True-RMS for VFD or non-sinusoidal waveform work. The MM600 is a fine meter for clean AC and DC measurements at a lower price.
📅 Update log
- May 9, 2026Refreshed pricing and added 8-month durability notes.
- Aug 25, 2025Initial review published.
