Between these two lab balances scales, the decision is less about brand names and more about what you are willing to take on. One is a project; the other is the more finished package. The right choice depends on whether you need a project or a tool.
Quick verdict
If you want a balance that does not need troubleshooting, the A&D FX300iN is the one to choose. The METTLER TOLEDO MS4002TS/00 is the lower-priced precision balance, but it is sold as a repair unit rather than a working instrument. Price matters, but condition changes the math.
At a glance
| Detail | METTLER TOLEDO MS4002TS/00 | A&D FX300iN |
|---|---|---|
| Listed price | $199.95 | $330.00 |
| Condition | For parts or not working | New - Open box |
| Capacity | 4,200g | 320g |
| Intended use | Biological Laboratory | Biological Laboratory |
| Model/MPN | MS4002TS/00 | FX300iN / FX-300 |
Where each product wins
The METTLER TOLEDO MS4002TS/00 wins on size and entry price. If you need a larger platform for a repair project or as a source of parts, it costs less. The A&D FX300iN wins on precision and condition. It is the stronger pick for fine lab work, and you are not inheriting an untested load cell. If your priority is the lowest upfront cost and you can bring a non-working unit back to life, the METTLER makes sense. If your priority is spec and simplicity, the A&D is the better match.
Product notes
METTLER TOLEDO MS4002TS/00 Precision Balance 4,200g
The MS4002TS/00 is a 4,200g precision balance listed at $199.95 in 'For parts or not working' condition. It powers on but does not load its application, and the load cell could not be tested. Cosmetically, 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. That makes this unit a candidate for repair or parts, not immediate weighing. Choose it if you have the skills to troubleshoot a non-functional instrument or want a large-capacity METTLER TOLEDO platform for a project. Skip it if you need a working balance right out of the box.
A&D Electronic Precision Balance Scale Model FX300iN
Listed at $330.00 as new open-box, the A&D FX300iN is a legal-for-trade, high-resolution laboratory scale with 320g capacity, 0.001g readability, and fast 1-second stabilization. For lab balances scales, that is a much more usable package than a for-parts unit. The limits here are practical rather than mechanical: no original box, no printed directions (a digital copy is available online), and a company asset tag on the bottom. If you can work with the 320g capacity, this scale is the better buy when you want high-resolution precision and do not want to gamble on a non-working circuit.
Final choice by use case
- If you need to weigh heavier samples and are comfortable with repair work, go with the METTLER TOLEDO MS4002TS/00.
- If you need fine, high-resolution measurements and a unit that does not need repairs, go with the A&D FX300iN.
- If you need one balance for routine work and do not want a repair project, the A&D FX300iN makes more sense.
