Top 5 Analog Bathroom Scales Reviewed & Buying Guide
Constantly monitoring body weight is one of the main parts of the daily care required to remain healthy and fit. A small bathroom scale is the best way of doing this, but given the massive amount of different models, designs and prices available, it might prove tricky choosing a model that best fits your needs. To give you a hand, we have looked through many customer reviews, product specifications and feedback and our team came to the conclusion that the best analog bathroom scale is the Ozeri ZB19 Electro Mechanical Weight Scale. This popular item incorporates modern technology in an old-school, retro design. It has a dial with dual scales and also includes a small electronic screen, for easy and precise readings. Four pressure sensors guarantee its accuracy, while the large platform, made from impact-proof glass, is safe to use and accommodates a wide variety of users. However, given that it is available at a very low price, the item might quickly be sold out. In this case, the Health O Meter Home Scale is another good option.
Comparison table
Our Top Choice
This model offers an excellent balance between performance and price. The large reading screen has 5.5 inches in diameter, and it also incorporates an LCD screen on which you can read the measurements in digital values. People with bad eyesight can greatly appreciate this feature, as they will not have a problem seeing the readings. The manufacturer includes the three replaceable batteries needed for the unit to work so that you can use it right away.
Too much humidity can affect the internal mechanisms, so be aware of this aspect.
An excellent bathroom scale that will show you readings with maximum accuracy.
2nd Best
The first thing you may notice about this particular model is the compact design. You can easily find room for it in a bathroom, a gym, or even at the office. Due to its low profile, you can push it under the bed, and use it whenever you want. As it is analog, it doesn’t need batteries, so you will not have to spend extra for it to function as intended. The dial displays both imperial and metric units, so you will be able to quickly measure your weight in the unit of your choice.
Some customers talk about foot placement being tricky for getting accurate results.
A sturdy model that is compact and easy to accommodate anywhere you want.
Also To Consider
With a maximum capacity of 400 pounds, this model can be used by overweight people who want to monitor their weight while dieting or employing other weight management measures. You will also like the large platform that comes with an anti-slip finish so that you don’t have to worry about accidents. The dual scale dial will come in handy when you need to measure your weight in pounds or kilograms, and its accuracy is something to write home about.
The dial may not be as easy to read as a digital one, but this model is analog, to begin with.
A high maximum weight capacity scale, equipped with a non-slip surface.
Before you start prospecting the market, it is important that you understand some of the factors that you need to take into consideration. These directly influence the quality of the product and, as a result, your degree of satisfaction with the choice made. Understand how some details influence the scales by reading the buying guide featured below.
Accuracy
An inaccurate scale is just another useless thing crowding your already limited space. If you cannot obtain precise results, it becomes impossible to keep your body weight on track and to monitor your health parameters with it. This is why it is important to go for a high-quality design that relies on a finely tuned mechanism to operate.
Even though these might not be so cheap, they also last longer in time and are less prone to failures. Most bathroom analog scales have an error of about one or two pounds. Usually, customers are satisfied with this result, but exigent people might want a device with an error of only half of that found in common, household items.
In time, the measuring precision might be reduced by material fatigue and dirt that penetrated the outer shell, clogging the internal parts of the mechanism. Opting for a stronger and more robust design will reduce the rate by which a scale becomes inaccurate. It is even better if it includes an adjustment knob for resetting the pin to zero once it becomes detuned.
Dial type
Precision is also influenced by the dial type used and how easily it can be read. Sometimes, misunderstandings might occur, if the numbers are too small or the pin wobbles around an indication. If you cannot properly read the scale, the accuracy of the results will suffer and the product might prove useless. That is why you have to opt for the best kind of indicator, according to your needs.
If your eyes are strong and you can clearly read smaller numbers from a distance, opting for a small dial is recommended. The scales built like this are usually very compact and can be easily hidden under a wardrobe or bed. However, if you or the person you are buying it for needs glasses to see clearly, purchasing a device with large, oversized dial and pin is recommended.
Even though it will influence the overall size of the body, not having to bend over to obtain precise readings will increase the accuracy of the results, making your gadget more enjoyable to use too.
Electronic dials are quite useful too in this scenario; even though they require batteries to operate, they offer clear, pinpoint results that are easy to read and impossible to misinterpret. Background colors are influencing your readings as well; go for contrasts such as black increments and numbers against a white background rather than less striking differences.
Other features to take into consideration and budget
Unlike common scales, those used in bathrooms or around swimming pools require two extra features. First, they must have some sort of anti-slip platform surface cover, to prevent accidents when used in these wet environments.
Second, in order to obtain the best results over a long period of time, you will need to make sure that the body is rust-proof; even a cheap analog bathroom scale will have some sort of coating to reduce, if not eliminate, the effects of constant exposure to water. A good analog bathroom scale should also be entirely waterproof. Humidity can corrode the internal mechanism, reducing accuracy or even causing it to break down over time.
Most designs currently available for sale have an anti-corrosion protection but not all are also waterproof. Another feature to look after is versatility; to achieve this, their platform should accommodate as many users as possible, regardless of their shoe size, and the capacity should be increased, too. Usually, scales can measure up to 400 pounds accurately.
Your budget also influences the results you will obtain. The price range allows you enough flexibility, and good products can be purchased for as low as $15. However, if you demand greater accuracy, longer lifetime, corrosion resistance and maybe even a warranty, consider spending a little bit more.
There are a lot of excellent products in the $50 price range, and ultra-precise ones go up to $100-$150. The latter are meant for clinical use rather than for common everyday purposes, but if your demands are high in terms of accuracy, you can also search for the more professional items.
Design
We all know how useful bathroom scales are when we are trying to track our weight daily. In fact, in this world in which our appearance seems to be very important, it’s a good idea not to get carried away by what the scale indicates. On the other hand, scientists have stated that maintaining a constant weight can help prevent multiple health issues in the long run.
With this being said, it’s clear that having a bathroom scale around the house is a very good idea, especially for those who are planning to adopt a healthier lifestyle. However, there are so many options in this category that you might not be sure what works better for your needs. One of the first aspects that you want to take into account is a bathroom scale’s design.
While most feature a compact and sleek construction, there are some models that are bulkier. If you don’t have too much space available in your bathroom or home, then going for a compact alternative is definitely a better idea. On the other hand, larger scales can be very useful for users who might not be able to see the dial clearly or who like having more platform space.
In the end, the choice here depends on your preferences and needs. The only thing to keep in mind is that you should look for a unit that comes with durable elements in its construction. For instance, some models include tempered glass, which is specially added to protect against humidity that might damage the scale in the long run.
This is especially important if you are planning to keep the scale in your bathroom for a long time. Plus, as already mentioned, devices with a higher overall capacity are usually more accurate, so if that’s something that you are after, then a larger and maybe bulkier unit might be better suited.
Easy to set up
Bathroom scales are not units that are very difficult to use, in general. The way they work tends to be pretty self-explanatory, especially for those who have already owned such a device. On the other hand, in order to use the scale regularly, you want it to be as easy to use and set up as possible.
This is why analog bathroom scales tend to be a better choice for some users. You won’t have to deal with getting extra batteries and maybe even run out of these for a while, which is something that can prevent you from using the device until you buy new ones. When it comes to digital units, they should not be confusing and difficult to use, as some models are, but that’s another story.
As far as analog models are concerned, one of the most important things you need to do in order to get accurate readings every time is to make sure that the device is set to zero. If not, a minor manual adjustment might be necessary every now and then. Plus, any type of scale should always be placed on an even and flat surface, as this can greatly influence its accuracy.
Build & safety
We know how useful bathroom scales can be, until one day they stop working, for whatever reason. This is usually when we realize how much we are used to having them around and start shopping for a new one. The truth is that these devices, just like any other products, do last for a while, but then they can stop working.
On the other hand, you want to make sure that this doesn’t happen too soon or too often, which is why you should look for a unit made of high-quality materials. Going for a scale that includes a shatter-proof glass or rust-resistant coating means that you are on the right path to making a choice that is going to last for a long time.
You can get years of service out of such a unit, as long as you make sure that the one you choose includes the right materials. Of course, going for products made by well-known brands can always be an extra step to making sure you won’t have to replace the unit right away.
This is also important for accuracy reasons, because no matter how sturdy a scale is, if you cannot rely on the readings, then you are not going to be able to use it. Plus, you should always look for safety elements as well, such as non-slip material added to the platform, as this can really make a difference in terms of your own comfort and peace of mind.
5 Best Analog Bathroom Scales (Reviews) in 2024
Since we cannot pick the perfect item for your needs, to help you make the decision, our team searched amongst the most popular products and wrote some reviews of analog bathroom scales. These take product specifications and customer opinions into consideration, and they might offer you some extra clues about what you really need.
Contents
1. Ozeri Rev Digital Bathroom Scale with Electro-Mechanical Weight Dial
Amongst the products that came up often while we were doing our research is this scale, produced by Ozeri. Incorporating high technology sensors, it is known and appreciated for its high precision. Since it is available at a low price, this design has great value for the money, being one of the most appreciated items currently available.
The design includes a large, 5.5 inch in diameter dial with an extra LED screen, for easy and more precise readings. This means that anyone, regardless of how good their eyesight is, can use this scale with a sufficient degree of accuracy. It is powered by three batteries, which are included in the package and can be replaced once emptied.
Even though it has a retro look, it incorporates modern materials and high precision sensors that guarantee the precision of this scale. The large platform makes it easy to use and safety is guaranteed by the impact-proof tempered glass used to build it. Storage is no problem as it can fit any small space, being thin and compact.
Pros
Offered by Ozeri, this bathroom scale is a device that ensures the necessary precision for your needs, thanks to the high-quality technology sensors included in its construction.
The large diameter dial makes it easy to use, especially since it includes an LED screen that is designed to make your life easier.
The stylish design makes it suitable for any bathroom interior, so finding the right place for it is not going to be an issue from this point of view.
Even though it features the retro look of an analog bathroom scale, the unit is powered by batteries, and these are included in the package for your convenience.
Cons
If you are looking for an analog bathroom scale, this unit is not the one for you, given that it does require batteries to work.
You may need a bit of time to get used to the bathroom scale, given its retro design.
Buy from Amazon.com
2. Health O Meter Floor Scale
An affordable option is this scale for generic household use. Precise, compact and quite reliable and versatile, the device can be used by anyone, and customers appreciate the solid and robust design. Without limiting it to personal use, it offers enough accuracy for use in a gym, health center or other similar business.
The scale requires no batteries to operate since it is analog, and the simple yet quality mechanism providing the readings makes it reliable and versatile. Featuring a solid build, it might have a long lifespan and make it worth the money. About 3 inches tall, it is easy to store under a taller bed or wardrobe.
A great feature of this scale is the dual dial, with both metric and imperial units. It is large, but people with failing eyesight might have some problems getting precise readings. However, with a little bit of help, this is no longer a problem. It can also be used by pretty much anyone since it includes both systems.
Pros
This Health O Meter model is a sturdy analog bathroom scale that is highly versatile and that can be placed in a wide range of spaces around your home.
The robust construction makes it a reliable choice, so you won’t have to spend additional money on a new bathroom scale anytime soon.
Thanks to the high-quality construction that it features, this is one of those analog bathroom scales that provide accurate readings, so you can safely use it in a health center or a gym.
Given that it doesn’t require any kind of batteries to work, this is not something that you will need to worry about.
Cons
If you are nearsighted, you may have some difficulty reading the numbers as you are standing on the scale.
Check out this bathroom scale’s measurements, as it may be a bit large for very small spaces.
Buy from Amazon.com
3. HB160KLEA Professional Home Care Mechanical Floor Scale
Even though this item might seem pricier, it is one of the most popular designs in its category and stands out with the high-quality build, increased accuracy, and compact design. Featuring a robust body and a capacity of 400 lbs, the item is pretty popular and definitely worth the money.
The large platform, fitted with an anti-slip surface protection makes it ideal for accommodating a wide variety of users, so it can be used in a gym or sports center. With a capacity of 400 lbs, it is versatile and capable of showing accurate indications even at higher loads.
Having a largely raised dial with dual scales, both imperial and metric means that anyone can use it even with not so good eyesight. It has 1 pound increments to help you obtain precise readings even when standing on it. Without being too large, it can be stored easily under a bed or wardrobe, as it is not extremely tall.
Pros
With an overall capacity of 400 lbs., this is one of those analog bathroom scales that you can rely on for a long time.
Thanks to the compact and robust design, you won’t have to worry about its durability, while the large platform is easy to use as well.
The unit also includes an anti-slip surface that comes in handy for extra safety, especially if you are going to place it in the bathroom next to any potential source of humidity.
Given the 1-lb increments and both metric and imperial scales included, you won’t have any difficulty keeping track of your weight for longer periods.
Cons
Make sure you place it on a solid and even surface in order to obtain accurate readings every time.
You may have to set it to zero sometimes before using it, so pay attention to this detail, even though this is not often the case.
Buy from Amazon.com
4. Health O Meter 160lbs. Mechanical Floor Scale
Thanks to the high-quality build, robust and compact body and great accuracy, this mechanical scale is one of the most popular products in its category. Accurate enough for common, everyday purposes, the device is entirely mechanical, meaning that it needs no batteries to operate. It has a long lifespan, guaranteeing it has great value for the money.
It is important to be able to obtain precise readings even with poor eyesight; this is why the dial is extra-large and also raised so that it can be read while standing without problems. However, it only contains imperial units so it cannot be read by metric system users. Customer feedback indicates that the readings are on point and the scale is easy to use and also reliable, with a long lifespan.
With an extra-large platform, the product can accommodate multiple users, having a maximum capacity of 400 lbs. Having a simple and entirely analog mechanism behind its operation, it is reliable enough and with a prolonged lifespan. Even though the raised dial makes it a bit too tall to fit a small space, there are other ways to easily store it, as it is not too big.
Pros
This Health O Meter analog bathroom scale comes with a compact and sturdy construction, and ensures great accuracy, thus being a very good alternative for all types of uses.
The unit doesn’t need any kind of batteries in order to work, so this is not something you will need to worry about in the long term.
The extra-large dial makes this one of those analog bathroom scales that pretty much anyone in your family can use without any trouble.
The large platform is comfortable to stand on, and the scale has an overall capacity of 400 lbs., which makes it a great addition to any home.
Cons
Even though this is a compact model, it might be harder to place if you don’t have too much space available in your bathroom.
If you are looking for a digital model, keep in mind that this is an analog bathroom scale, so it might not fit your needs.
Buy from Amazon.com
5. Salter Mechanical Bathroom Scale
A more affordable bathroom scale is this item, produced by Salter. Cheaper than some of its competitors, it offers enough accuracy for everyday purposes, being easy to use and requiring no maintenance whatsoever. Entirely mechanical, it needs no batteries to operate.
The large platform, measuring 18.25 by 13 inches is covered with a non-slip textured mat that prevents accidents when used in wet environments. The steel base is strong and durable, being made from steel and coated with special powders, which make it rust-proof. A 5-year warranty is also issued, guaranteeing for its reliability and permanent accuracy even after years of use.
Featuring a large, 7.5 inches dial, the scale offers ease of use and gives people the ability to obtain precise readings even when standing on the scale. The dual measuring systems, imperial and metric, make it excellent for hotels or other places where people used with either system will use it. With a great price, it definitely offers great value for the money.
Pros
With an elegant design that goes well into any bathroom decor, this Salter model is one of those analog bathroom scales that you can surely try out for everyday purposes.
Being an entirely mechanical device means that you won’t need to worry about getting batteries every now and then.
The platform is specially designed to be large and comfortable, while the non-slip mat ensures additional safety even in humid spaces, such as your bathroom.
Thanks to the durable steel base and a special coating, this scale is also rust-resistant, so this is not an issue that you have to deal with if you give it a try.
Cons
The dark colors used for this model might make it a bit harder to use for some people, as the numbers are not as visible.
The slightly raised dial might make it a bit harder to store around the house, depending on how much space is available.
Bibliography:
1) Know if a Scale Is Working Correctly
4) How to choose the right bathroom scale
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