Choosing between two used Mettler Toledo balances means deciding what matters more: ultra-fine readability for small samples or a larger capacity and ready-to-run condition. The MS105 is a semi-micro analytical balance sold as-is with a damaged draft shield. The XSR1202S is a top-loading precision balance in clean working order. If you're weighing tiny samples and don't mind a repair project, the MS105 is the low-cost path. If you need to weigh larger quantities and want a balance that's ready to use, the XSR1202S is the safer buy.
Quick Verdict
Choose the MS105 if you need semi-micro precision and are prepared to fix the draft shield. Choose the XSR1202S if you want a higher-capacity precision balance with automatic calibration and a unit listed as exceptionally clean and fully tested.
At a Glance
| Feature | Mettler Toledo MS105 NewClassic MF Semi-Micro Analytical Balance Scale 120g | Mettler Toledo XSR1202S Precision Balance (1210 g / 0.01 g |
|---|---|---|
| Price | USD 789.00 | USD 1,999.00 |
| Balance type | Analytical balance | Top-loading balance |
| Capacity/readability | 120 g / 0.01 mg | 1210 g / 0.01 g |
| Condition | Used, sold as-is for parts/repair; draft shield damaged | Used, listed in exceptional cosmetic and working condition |
Where Each Product Wins
- MS105 NewClassic MF: Wins on fine readability and lower cost. Its semi-micro sensitivity suits sub-milligram work, and it is the significantly more affordable balance.
- XSR1202S: Wins on capacity and convenience. It offers a much larger maximum load, FACT automatic internal calibration, and a listed condition of exceptional cosmetics and operation.
Product Notes
Mettler Toledo MS105 NewClassic MF Semi-Micro Analytical Balance Scale 120g
At $789, the MS105 is the more affordable way into Mettler Toledo's semi-micro analytical line. It reads to 0.01 mg, which is critical when you're weighing tiny samples in the sub-milligram range. The catch is its condition: the unit is sold as-is for parts or repair because the draft shield housing has physical damage. The electronics and internal mechanics function, but you'll need to address the shield before you can rely on it for clean weigh-ins. If you're comfortable with a repair project, this could be a smart buy; if not, the cost of repairs could erase the savings.
Mettler Toledo XSR1202S Precision Balance (1210 g / 0.01 g
At $1,999, the XSR1202S is the pricier option, but it comes in exceptional cosmetic and working condition. It has a 1210 g capacity and 0.01 g readability, making it a versatile top-loading balance for larger samples. FACT automatic internal calibration helps keep measurements consistent without manual adjustment, and the unit has been professionally inspected, cleaned, and tested before sale. The main limitation is coarser readability than the MS105, so it's not suited for micro-weighing tasks. If you need a high-capacity precision balance that is ready to use out of the box, this is the one.
Final Choice by Use Case
- Choose the MS105 if your samples are very small and you're comfortable with repairs. The analytical-grade sensitivity and lower price make it a good fit for budget-conscious labs.
- Choose the XSR1202S if you want a high-capacity precision balance that is ready to use immediately. The automatic calibration and clean condition make it a dependable daily workhorse.
