When you're in the market for lab balances scales, you face a classic fork: a brand-new budget digital scale versus a used precision balance with a known problem. The Mettler Toledo MS4002TS/00 and the DentisLAB 0.01g digital analytical balance represent exactly that fork. One is a precision balance from Mettler Toledo, but it's listed for parts or not working. The other is a fresh, low-priced unit ready for routine weighing. This head-to-head review will help you decide which one belongs in your lab.
Quick Verdict
The DentisLAB is the obvious choice for almost anyone who needs to weigh samples today. It's new, it's functional, and it costs $62.99-far less than the $199.95 Mettler Toledo unit, which is listed as for parts or not working. Unless you're hunting for Mettler Toledo spare parts or have the skills to revive a precision balance, the DentisLAB is the one to buy.
Price and Feature Comparison
| Product | Price | Condition | Capacity / Accuracy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mettler Toledo MS4002TS Precision Balance | $199.95 | For parts or not working | 4,200g precision balance |
| DentisLAB 600g/1000g/3000gx0.01g Lab Scale | $62.99 | New | 600g, 1000g, and 3000g options; 0.01g display accuracy |
Where Each Product Wins
- The DentisLAB wins on practicality. It's a new scale that's ready to use, with counting, skinning/tare, and auto shut-off features. You can start weighing right away.
- The Mettler Toledo wins only in a narrow repair scenario. If you need a specific MS4002TS/00 for parts or restoration, this is a potential donor. Its 4,200g capacity is larger than any of the DentisLAB's listed capacities, but that capacity is unusable while the unit doesn't function.
Product Notes
Mettler Toledo MS4002TS/00 Precision Balance
The listing tells you exactly what to expect: the unit is for parts or not working. It powers on but doesn't load its application. The cosmetic description mentions a chipped rear footing and a cracked weigh-pan ring, though the display and ports are said to be in great shape. What you'll receive is the unit itself; anything not photographed or mentioned is not included. This could be a donor for someone repairing another MS4002TS/00, or a repair challenge for an experienced technician. But as a daily driver for weighing, it's not ready to plug in and use.
DentisLAB 600g/1000g/3000gx0.01g Lab Scale
This new analytical balance is ready to work out of the box. It lists capacities of 600g, 1000g, and 3000g, and a display accuracy of 0.01g. The spec sheet includes an error range of ±0.03g, counting and skinning functions, and an automatic shutdown you can set to 1, 3, 5, 30 minutes, or off. The scale pan removes for cleaning, and the unit runs on 2 AAA batteries-none are included, so you'll need to supply those. Calibration weights in 500g and 1000g ship with the scale. The only practical catch is the power situation: make sure you have AAA batteries on hand before you start weighing.
Final Choice by Use Case
Choose the DentisLAB if you need a functioning balance for everyday lab work, teaching, or weighing small parts. It's ready to go, and its price is far friendlier. Consider the Mettler Toledo only if you're repairing or restoring an MS4002TS/00 and need a donor unit for parts-and you're comfortable with its non-functional state and cosmetic damage.
