10 Best Infrared Moisture Meters 2025 in the United States

The FLIR MR277 Moisture Meter is a comprehensive tool designed for building inspection, combining moisture detection with thermal imaging and a hygrometer. One of the standout features is its thermal imaging technology, which offers four times the resolution of earlier models. This helps identify moisture, air leaks, and insulation voids quickly, making the inspection process more efficient.

Additionally, the integrated non-invasive sensor and external pin probe ensure accurate moisture readings, crucial for diagnosing building issues. The inclusion of thermal and visual imagery in one file, along with hygrometer readings and laser location, makes documenting problems streamlined and effective. This is particularly beneficial for professionals who need to provide detailed reports on building conditions.

The device is also backed by a 10-year warranty, reflecting its durability and build quality. However, it's relatively heavy at 2.1 pounds, which might make prolonged use a bit cumbersome. It runs on alkaline batteries, and though it includes a charger and USB cable, relying on battery power could be seen as a limitation in constant-use scenarios. Despite these minor drawbacks, the FLIR MR277 is an excellent choice for those in the building inspection industry who need a reliable, precise, and comprehensive tool.

The Extech MO290 is a versatile infrared moisture meter that combines a pinless moisture detector with an IR thermometer, making it a handy tool for various applications. One of its strong points is the programmable high/low moisture and humidity alarms, which can help you quickly identify problematic areas. The device also automatically calculates the differential temperature to determine the condensation point, which is useful for preventing mold growth and structural damage. The non-contact IR thermometer has an 8:1 distance to spot ratio and a fixed emissivity of 0.95, allowing you to measure surface temperatures accurately from a distance.

The large dual display with backlight is easy to read, even in low-light conditions, which can be very convenient during inspections in dimly lit areas. Additionally, the pinless measurement capability can detect moisture up to 0.75 inches below the surface, and it includes a remote pin-type probe for more precise readings with a 3 feet cable length, giving you flexibility in measuring different materials and depths. On the downside, the MO290 could be considered slightly bulky for some users due to its 0.21-kilogram weight, and the AA battery might not last as long as rechargeable options.

The build quality seems robust, but it might not be the most durable in extremely harsh environments. For those who need reliable moisture measurements and temperature readings in one device, the Extech MO290 offers a solid option, especially for home inspectors, restoration professionals, and HVAC technicians.

The MT28 Pinless Moisture Meter is a versatile tool designed to measure the moisture content in various building materials such as wood, walls, and flooring. One of its standout features is its pinless design, which employs electromagnetic fields to detect moisture up to a depth of 20mm without damaging the material. This makes it particularly useful for detecting moisture from leaks and flooding.

The device offers a 3-color display and sound alarms to alert users to different moisture levels, which is convenient for quick assessments. The hold function allows you to freeze the data to record accurate readings, and it includes a simple calibration process by pressing the 'hold' button for at least 5 seconds. It also has an auto-off feature after 30 minutes, which helps conserve battery life. The included 9V battery and storage bag add to its practical utility.

The accuracy is approximately +/- 5%, which may not be sufficient for highly precise tasks. Additionally, the instruction to keep it away from metal objects during measurement can be a bit restrictive in certain environments. The device is lightweight and made from durable materials like PCB and plastic, ensuring it can withstand regular use. Suitable for both professional and casual users, the MT28 is a reliable choice for anyone needing to monitor moisture levels in various materials.