Choosing a lab balance comes down to a few hard tradeoffs: capacity vs. readability, price vs. condition. Do you need to weigh large batches or measure tiny samples? A general-purpose top-loader handles most routine lab work, but an ultra-precision analytical balance is a different class. The four Mettler Toledo units here cover both ends of that spectrum, and their prices reflect very different condition and capability. The right choice is not simply the cheapest or the most precise; it is the one whose condition matches your willingness to repair and whose resolution matches your samples.
Quick Take
- METTLER TOLEDO MS4002TS/00 - sold for parts or not working.
- Mettler Toledo XSR1202S - used and fully tested.
- Mettler Toledo PM4600 DeltaRange - used top-loading balance.
- Mettler Toledo MS105 NewClassic MF - used, sold as-is with physical damage.
Price Comparison
| Model | Price | Indicator | Most Useful For |
|---|---|---|---|
| METTLER TOLEDO MS4002TS/00 Precision Balance | $199.95 | Repair project with a 4,200g platform | |
| Mettler Toledo XSR1202S Precision Balance | $1,999.00 | Ready-to-use 0.01g precision balance | |
| Mettler Toledo PM4600 DeltaRange | $185.00 | Low-cost weighing up to 4,100g at 0.01g | |
| Mettler Toledo MS105 NewClassic MF | $789.00 | Semi-micro 0.01mg work if you accept repair |
Decision Matrix
- If you need a working precision balance now and have budget room, start with the XSR1202S.
- If you want the lowest price for high-capacity lab weighing, look at the PM4600.
- If your work needs very small sample precision and you can handle a repair, the MS105 fits.
- If you need a parts donor or a repair challenge, the MS4002TS/00 is the project.
Product Notes
METTLER TOLEDO MS4002TS/00 Precision Balance (4,200g)
At $199.95, this is the least expensive way into a 4,200g Mettler Toledo precision balance, but it is sold for parts or not working. The scale powers on, yet it does not load its application, and the load cell was not tested. The rear static footing has a chipped tip and the plastic ring around the weigh pan is cracked, though the display and ports are in good shape. The 4,200g capacity is the largest in this group. Choose it when you have the skills to troubleshoot a non-functional balance or need a donor unit with a large-capacity platform. The limitation is clear: it is not a working instrument for everyday weighing.
Mettler Toledo XSR1202S Precision Balance (1210 g / 0.01 g)
The XSR1202S is the most expensive option at $1,999.00, and it is the one to choose for immediate use. It comes with FACT automatic internal calibration, a 1210g capacity, and 0.01g readability, and the used unit is fully tested. This makes it a ready-to-use precision balance for labs that need to weigh up to about 1.2kg with 0.01g resolution and want the convenience of automatic internal calibration. The trade-off is that for samples that need much finer precision, you would still need an analytical balance like the MS105. If uptime and easy operation matter, this is the pick.
Mettler Toledo PM4600 DeltaRange Lab Precision Balance (4100g / 0.01g)
The PM4600 is the lowest-priced balance in the group at $185.00. It provides a 4100g capacity, 0.01g readability, DeltaRange weighing, a stainless steel pan, and data I/O. This makes it a practical general-purpose scale for chemistry, biology, and industrial work where you do not need ultra-fine resolution. It was removed from a university lab, and the housing carries university asset markings. On the other hand, the 0.01g readability is not designed for the small-sample work the MS105 handles. If your process just needs repeatable bulk weighing, this is the most economical route.
Mettler Toledo MS105 NewClassic MF Semi-Micro Analytical Balance (120g / 0.01mg)
The MS105 is the semi-micro analytical balance in this group, with 120g capacity and 0.01mg readability. Priced at $789.00, it sits in the middle of the price range. The electronics and internal mechanics function, but the draft shield housing is cracked and it is sold as-is for parts or repair. Its readability is much finer than the 0.01g balances here, which is what makes it useful for small-sample analytical work. If you can repair or replace the draft shield, you get a semi-micro analytical balance at a lower price than the XSR1202S. The risk is the damage and the limited 120g capacity, so it suits labs that need small-sample precision and are prepared to do some work.
Final Recommendation by Use Case
- Immediate precision balance: Choose the Mettler Toledo XSR1202S.
- High-capacity weighing on a tight budget: Choose the Mettler Toledo PM4600 DeltaRange.
- Small-sample analytical work: Choose the Mettler Toledo MS105 if the draft-shield repair is acceptable.
- Parts project or repair challenge: Choose the METTLER TOLEDO MS4002TS/00.
