What to Look for When Buying a Kitchen Scale

The two most important things to consider when choosing a kitchen scale are precision and maximum capacity. Precision indicates the increments in grams that the scale can measure. For recipes such as bread and cakes, where measurements depend on weight, a scale with 1-gram precision gives much more reliable results than one that measures in 5- or 10-gram increments. Maximum capacity is the greatest weight the scale can handle. Models with a capacity of up to 5 kg are generally sufficient for routine kitchen use, but a higher-capacity model may be preferable for large batches of dough or cooking for a group.

Should you choose a digital or mechanical scale?

Digital scales are more precise and display a clear number, which minimizes reading errors. With mechanical (dial) scales, it can sometimes be difficult to tell exactly where the needle is pointing. Most digital scales can measure in increments as small as 1 gram, while mechanical scales generally measure in increments of 10–25 grams. Mechanical scales do not require batteries and are often longer-lasting; they are still used in busy kitchens where highly precise measurements are not essential.

Why is the tare function important?

The tare function resets the weight of a container placed on the scale, so the display shows only the weight of ingredients added to it. This lets you add several ingredients to a bowl one after another, resetting the scale each time to weigh them separately, which also reduces the number of dishes to wash. Without a tare function, you have to weigh a separate container for each ingredient, weigh it again after adding the ingredient, and calculate the result by hand. This takes more time and increases the chance of error. Tare also lets you weigh several ingredients in the same bowl in succession without changing bowls.

What should you look for in the platform and display?

The scale's platform should be wide and level; a small platform may be unstable when you place a large bowl or pot on it. A stainless-steel platform is more durable and easier to clean than a plastic one. A large display with clearly readable numbers is especially useful when the scale is placed below or to the side of the countertop. Some models have a display that is separate from the platform and connected by a flexible cable, so the display remains visible when a large container is placed on the scale.

Common mistakes when buying a kitchen scale

The most common mistake is choosing a scale based only on capacity without checking its precision. Some high-capacity scales may not be precise enough at low weights, such as fine measurements of 2–3 grams. Keeping a separate precision scale for small amounts of ingredients such as yeast and baking powder may be useful. Another mistake is failing to check whether the battery compartment and buttons are water-resistant; splashes or flour dust in the kitchen can cause electronic failures in low-quality scales. Models with water-resistant surfaces are safer in this respect. Also consider the scale's automatic shutoff time: models that turn off too quickly require frequent restarting during long measuring sessions.