Have you ever wondered what your mom or friend's secret is in the kitchen? They always seem to make these tasty meals and pastries that have you drooling for more. I can't tell you their secret, but I can tell you how to improve your skills and give them a run for their money. Get yourself the best kitchen scale.
What Is a Kitchen Scale?
A kitchen scale is a device you use to measure the weight of food and the ingredients you use to make your meals. You can get kitchen scales in digital, balance, or spring models. A balance kitchen scale is more accurate than a spring model.
The advantage of using food scales is that you get accurate measurements of your ingredients as you cook. Also, if you are on a diet, a kitchen scale will allow you to know the exact measurements of your food.
A food or kitchen scale is your secret weapon for making perfectly risen bread, consistently flavored food, and more. You'll get, "Are you a chef?" more times than you can count. So let's look at the best kitchen scales in the market to get your way to stardom.
What Are the Best Kitchen Scales?
Rank | Product Image | Brand Name | Link |
|---|---|---|---|
1 |
| ||
2 |
| ||
3 |
| ||
4 |
| ||
5 |
|
1. GreaterGoods Digital Food Kitchen Scale
- A Smart Choice: Greater Goods classic digital kitchen scale is...
- Fresh Features: All of the qualities you need and expect in a...
- Simple and Stylish: Never let a kitchen accessory cramp your...
- True Support: Our friendly team in St. Louis are industry experts...
- Beyond A Purchase: Yes, we design and produce high functioning,...
I was impressed by how this best kitchen scale combines minimal design and high accuracy. Countless people trust this digital kitchen scale in their kitchens, relying on its extreme precision and accuracy to provide them with the highest quality scale. Whether following a strict recipe or counting macros, this food scale is exactly what I needed.
Once I purchased this as the best-budget kitchen scale, I was confident that my cooking process would become easier and more precise. Moreover, I can read through the numerous reviews left by satisfied customers whose cooking experience has completely transformed since they bought this stylish and accurate food scale. The readings are conveniently displayed in grams and ounces, catering to my preferred style.
Image Credit: amazon.com
The scale display is incredibly easy to read, and its design seamlessly blends with my kitchen appliances and decor. Even better, I can expect top-notch customer support when I purchase this kitchen scale. The company prioritizes comfort, which swiftly resolves any complications or issues.
Not only does Greater Goods fulfill my needs, but it also goes above and beyond. The company actively collaborates with its charity partner, Meds and Food for Kids, to save lives and generate employment opportunities. It's truly remarkable how they give back. So, if I've been searching for ways to make a meaningful impact, I can rest assured that my purchase positively transforms someone else's life.
Pros:
Cons:
2. Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale
- Accurate Measurement: Weigh up to 5 kg/11 lb precisely in 1 g...
- Unit Conversion: Select your preferred units,...
- Tare Function: Use the tare function to remove container weight...
- LCD Display: Easily read measurements on the backlit LCD display
- Quality Material: Measure food, small items, and liquids with...
While this kitchen scale wasn't my first choice, I'm still quite impressed with its features. It has a capacity of approximately 11 lbs (5000g) and measures in increments of 1g, which is quite accurate. The minimum measurement it can detect is around 3g-5g, and it has the added convenience of automatically shutting off after 2 minutes of inactivity. With dimensions of 7.32 x 5.70 x 0.67 inches, it's a portable scale that can be easily stored away when needed.
This Etekcity digital food scale comes loaded with four built-in high-precision load sensors. These sensors enable you to measure 0.05oz/1g increments as you add your ingredients. Another great feature I loved is the multi-unit conversion that allows you to measure ingredients in various units of measurement.
Image Credit: amazon.com
The multi-unit conversion function was another excellent addition, allowing me to measure ingredients in various units, such as oz/lb: oz/fl: oz/g/mL. This feature is handy when following recipes that use different measuring units. Additionally, the tare function enables me to subtract the weight of the container, ensuring accurate results every time.
The backlit LCD makes it easy for me to read the measurements, even in low-light conditions. The stainless steel platform adds to its visual appeal and hygiene properties, which is a bonus. While other models like the Escali Primo P115C Precision Kitchen Food Scale and the OXO Good Grips food scale are known for their user-friendliness, this scale has also garnered positive reviews.
Pros:
Cons:
3. Ozeri ZK14-S Pronto Digital Kitchen Scale
- Accurate, elegant, easy-to-use digital kitchen scale for your...
- Unit Button instantly converts between 6 units of measurements...
- Precision Tare Button calculates the net weight of your...
- Features a newly enlarged weighing platform finished in elegant...
- Runs on 2 AAA batteries (included) that automatically power-off...
Although the Ozeri Pronto Kitchen Food Scale wasn't my top choice, it still has some appealing features. This scale can weigh in 1-gram or 0.05-ounce increments, and its elevated weighing platform provides greater accuracy with heavier weights. It has a maximum capacity of 11.24 lbs (5100 grams), making it suitable for measuring larger ingredients.
One of the convenient functions is the Automatic Unit Button, which instantly converts the units to match my preference. It offers a variety of units, including g, lbs, lbs: oz, oz, and ml. The LCD is designed for easy readability, adding to the overall user experience. Additionally, the Tare button allows me to remove the weight of the container, ensuring accurate measurements with the Ozeri Pronto digital multifunction scale.
Image Credit: amazon.com
I appreciated the thoughtful inclusion of an audible click confirmation when pressing the Unit and Tare buttons. This feature sets it apart from other scales, like the Escali Primo Digital Scale, as it guarantees that the buttons have been appropriately activated.
One minor drawback is that this kitchen scale may take about two seconds to read smaller weights. However, it is expected to perform well and meet most requirements. The purchase includes 2 AAA batteries, which is an excellent addition.
Pros:
Cons:
4. Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale
- Stainless steel digital kitchen scale with widescreen LCD screen
- Weighs up to 11 pounds (about 5000 grams) of food (minimum of 2...
- Advanced sensor technology delivers quick, accurate responses
- Tare button subtracts container weight to zero out the scale so...
- BPA-free plastic components are food safe; includes (2) AAA...
Although I didn't purchase the Amazon Basics stainless steel digital scale, it still offers some noteworthy features. This scale has a maximum capacity of 11 pounds (5000 grams) and can serve well in the food industry. However, it's worth noting that the minimum measurement is relatively high at 2 grams, which may not be ideal for specific precision needs. Compared to other digital scales like the Oxo Good Grips, this scale offers some additional features.
The stainless steel digital scale boasts a wide and easy-to-read LCD screen. The spacious stainless steel surface and lightweight design make measuring ingredients in large bowls convenient, making it particularly useful for baking enthusiasts.
Image Credit: amazon.com
The inclusion of advanced sensor technology ensures accurate responses on the digital display. With a maximum weight limit of 11 pounds, this scale provides ample room for measuring ingredients for various recipes. Additionally, since it uses BPA-free materials, the scales are safe for food handling.
The Tare button is another helpful feature, as it allows you to subtract the weight of the container, increasing the accuracy of the readings. Furthermore, the purchase includes two AAA Amazon Basics batteries, providing convenience right out of the box.
Pros:
Cons:
5. Etekcity 0.1g Food Kitchen Scale
- High-Precision: The high-sensitivity sensor offers accurate...
- Versatile: Easily switch unit among oz, lb, g, fl: oz, and ml....
- Hassle-Free: 304 food- grade stainless steel and compact design...
- Clear Display: The 2.5 x 1 in bright LCD display offers...
- Thoughtfully Designed: Powered by two pre-installed AAA...
I'm excited to introduce our final pick, another classic from Etekcity that offers high-precision measurements. Although it was not my best option, this digital scale guarantees reliable measurements and instant readings. The upgraded sensors incorporated into this meal prep scale make these instant and accurate readings possible.
With a maximum weight capacity of 11 pounds, this kitchen scale allows for measurements in both pounds and ounces. It offers five different units of measurement, including oz, lb, g, fl: oz, and mL. Additionally, you can switch between water and milk density, adding versatility to your measurements.
Image Credit: amazon.com
The clear and easy-to-read LCD display provided accurate measurements, and its width gave me a comfortable viewing experience. One standout feature of this scale is the convenient pull-out display. This design element makes it much easier to use, especially when measuring multiple ingredients in large bowls.
Compared to scales with a traditional flat tablet design, I loved this pull-out display which set this kitchen scale apart by providing enhanced usability. Not only does it offer a maximum weight capacity of 11 pounds, but it also saves you time and effort in your culinary endeavors. Lastly, I loved how including the tare function and auto-off function further contributes to its user-friendly nature.
Pros:
Cons:
What Features Are a Must-Have in a Kitchen Scale?
1. Accuracy
Ensure you get the best kitchen scale that gives you the most accuracy. This was a significant factor as we considered the best scales to give you. A scale with a pull-out display is great. However, it might be bad if it doesn't provide accurate measurements.
Ensure you get a kitchen scale that measures accurately and consistently, like our top pick and the rest.
2. Tare Function
What does the Tare button do? Tarring enables you to automatically subtract the weight of your measuring container or large bowl and get the measurement of only what is in the mixing bowl itself. Therefore, when you press the Tare button, the kitchen scale gives you only the weight of your ingredients.
You can repeatedly tare to get only the weight of what's inside the measuring cup or container. So whether you are using the Escali Primo digital scale or one of the few scales our picks above, you should be able to use the tare button easily.
3. Measurement in Ounces and Grams
A bonus is a kitchen scale measuring in both imperial units and metric units. In addition, get a scale that reads in decimals instead of fractions. This way, you get accurate and precise measurements and have an easier time reading these measurements.
If you prefer fractions, you can get scales with both functions. Ultimately, the goal is to get a kitchen scale that gives you the measurements in pounds and ounces. Then, you won't have to start doing the math while still trying to ensure that you get the best cake.
4. Auto-Shut Function
In this modern era, energy conservation is a big thing. Even things that seem small, like conserving the battery life of your kitchen scale, can have huge impacts. Therefore, as you choose the best kitchen scale, get one with an auto-shut-off feature for preserving battery life.
Get one with a long battery life and an auto-shut-off feature for better service. For example, five minutes can be an ideal duration. However, 2-5 minutes is acceptable. If you plan on using your kitchen scale during your regular baking activities, you may want to get a scale with a longer duration, like five minutes.
Turning the scale on each time can be annoying while multitasking. So you can also check if the scale allows you to remove this feature entirely. This way, your patience won't be tested every time your measurement disappears.
5. Laminated Buttons
All our other tested kitchen scales also have protected buttons; the only scale without is our final pick. Cooking and baking can be messy experiences. Therefore, getting the best kitchen scale with protected buttons is a good investment.
Grains of sugar, water droplets, crumbs, and other small elements can seriously harm your device if it's not protected. If your display and buttons are protected, cleaning becomes easier.
6. Instant Measurements
Get a kitchen scale that will give you speedy measurements. A scale with a pull-out display and a stainless steel weighing platform is excellent. However, all this convenience can quickly fade if you wait a few seconds to get your reading.
Besides our third pick, which takes two seconds to read smaller measurements, all the others are good to go.
Frequently Asked Questions about the Best Kitchen Scales
1. What are the three main types of scales used in a kitchen?
The three common scales include the digital scale, balance scale, and spring scale/mechanical scale.
2. Are kitchen scales useful?
Yes, especially when you want to improve your cooking or be mindful about how much you eat. A great kitchen scale helps you know how many calories or measurements of something you're consuming.
3. What food scale type is the most accurate?
When it comes to accuracy, digital kitchen scales are generally considered the most reliable. They use electronic sensors to measure weight and provide precise readings. Digital scales often have a tare function, which allows you to subtract the weight of the container, providing accurate measurements for the ingredients you're weighing.
Additionally, digital scales often have a higher resolution, allowing for more precise measurements.
4. Which scale is better for baking?
For baking, using a digital food scale that offers metric and imperial measurements is recommended. This flexibility allows you to follow recipes that use either system. Digital kitchen scales are suitable for baking as they provide accurate measurements, have a tare function, and can often switch between different units of measurement easily.
5. Are all kitchen scales accurate?
While most kitchen scales are designed to provide accurate measurements, their accuracy may vary depending on the quality and calibration of the scale. Cheaper or older scales may be less accurate due to wear and tear or manufacturing inconsistencies. It's generally a good idea to periodically check the accuracy of your kitchen scale to ensure it is functioning correctly.
6. Which scale is most accurate and why?
High-quality digital food scales are generally considered the most accurate. These scales have precision sensors that can detect even the smallest weight changes, ensuring precise measurements. They often have a high resolution, allowing for more precise measurements, especially when dealing with small recipe quantities.
The tare function allows a user to subtract the weight of containers, ensuring only the ingredient weight is considered. Digital scales also offer the convenience of unit conversion, allowing you to switch between different measurement systems.
While calibration is necessary over time, reputable brands typically provide pre-calibrated scales for accurate readings. Overall, digital food scales provide accuracy, reliability, and features that contribute to precise measurements in the kitchen.
7. How will you know if my scale is accurate?
To check the accuracy of your food scale, you can use standard calibration weights. These weights are designed to have a known and precise measurement. Start by placing the calibration weight on the scale and check if the scale displays the expected weight.
It is likely accurate if the scale consistently shows a weight close to the calibration weight. However, if there is a vast difference, it may indicate that your scale is inaccurate and may require calibration or replacement.
8. How do you know if a scale is not accurate?
Several signs can indicate that a scale is not accurate:
- Inconsistent readings: The scale may not provide accurate measurements if you weigh the same item multiple times and get different results each time.
- Off-balance readings: If the scale consistently shows inaccurate readings even when you have properly balanced the item being weighed, it indicates a calibration or accuracy issue.
- Comparison with known weights: If you have access to calibrated weights, you can compare the readings of your scale with these known weights. If there is a significant deviation, it suggests that your scale is not accurate.
- Age and wear: Scales can become less accurate due to wear and tear or aging components. If you've been using the same scale for a long time, it's possible that it may have lost its accuracy and may need calibration or replacement.
Remember that if you suspect your food scale is inaccurate, it's best to verify its accuracy with standardized calibration weights or consult the manufacturer's instructions for calibration procedures.
