Can anyone suggest a moisture meter for checking hardwood that actually works? I've bought two that were rated almost 5 stars on Amazon and neither work - just says zero all the time.

Does a decent meter for less than $50 exist? Are the pinless ultrasonic type any better?

5You can buy a cheap meter from Harbor freight. May not be so accurate, but you can compare fresh wood with already acclimated wood. The pinless meters will not damage the surface of finished wood. they cost over a hundred.

I use the General Tools brand meter from Amazon, but it was 114$ if I recall (CDN). Its not the best, but does get the job done. You'll be hard pressed to find a good one for less than 50, but it depends on your application. I do warranty work so I require a few meters and also have a 400$ Wagner for the bigger cases which require formal reporting etc

I've never heard anything positive about inexpensive moisture meters, other than the price. If it's sort-of right or usually accurate, how helpful is that?

I also have a Wagner pin-less meter and love it - very accurate & easy to use, no damaging the wood and it measures about 3/4" deep with accuracy.

If you have an ongoing need, I'd bite the bullet and buy a good pinless. If not, maybe you know someone in the lumber business that could loan you one.

Here's my Wagner:
https://www.commercialforestproducts.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/IMG_9421.jpg

Good luck.

Well, maybe this compilation will help https://www.thearchitectsguide.com/articles/best-moisture-meter