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Best hydrometer

Last Updated: 06.10.24

 

Hydrometers – Buying guide & Comparison

 

These days, getting the best hydrometer for home brewing or any other purpose might leave you feeling baffled. Luckily for you, we’re here to give you a hand at selecting the brewers’ best hydrometer and not just that. From what we’ve found, it seems that the Brewer’s Elite TSH-02 is the model you ought to give some thought into purchasing. It’s convenient, versatile, and can be read with ease. Besides, it even comes with a protective hard case that can ensure many years to use. What’s more, the model is even accompanied by a microfiber cleaning cloth with the help of which you can wipe out all the excess moisture. In case the Brewer’s Elite TSH-02 is no longer available for purchase, you can at least consider the next best option, the LabStock LB32-HYDRO.

 

 

Comparison table

 

The Good
The Bad
Verdict
Price

 

 

If going through hundreds of the best hydrometer reviews hasn’t done anything in the way of finding out the right model, we are here to assist you in this pursuit. We know that there are thousands of units available for sale nowadays, and that’s why we have come up with a simple buyer’s guide that can help you make up your mind about what you’re looking for in such a product.

Decide on the type you need

There are roughly three kinds of hydrometers you might have to consider depending on your purpose. For example, the triple scale choice is less expensive compared to others. The price for such alternatives ranges from five to fifteen dollars. A model like this one can be utilized to measure specific gravity, potential alcohol, as well as the Brix/Balling scale.

A thermo-hydrometer is slightly less affordable than the choice we have mentioned above, but it can measure both temperature and specific gravity. The neatest thing about this choice is that you get to take advantage of its versatility. In a way, you get two devices into one.

Finally, there’s the precision hydrometer that we need to add to this list. Of all of the alternatives noted previously, this one seems to be one of the most precise ones. Some of these choices can measure 1.000 to 1.070 gravity. Such models aren’t cheap, and that we can tell you for sure, but they are worth the investment in the long run.

 

Materials matter

While it might be a golden rule to choosing anything you might have ever wished for, the fact of the matter is that not all hydrometers are made the same and from the same materials. Glass is not indestructible, and we’re sure you’ve heard that before.

Some cylinders are made from plastic, and choosing one of these is a good idea if you are focused on durability. In the end, you need to understand whether you risk using the cylinder while your hands are wet. Of course, you can always pay a bit more attention to what you are doing, but that point is moot at most users don’t even realize when they do this.

 

Consider your purpose

There are many types of users out there, and the issue that might arise when you are looking for the perfect product that might seem to be designed for you specifically is that some just aren’t. For example, the proof and tralle hydrometer is destined for spirits and liquors. Perhaps this does not suit your requirements.

 

Does the model offer plenty of value?

It goes without saying that there are many aspects to give some thought to because the value sought by some isn’t the same as that searched for by others. Nevertheless, it always pays off to invest in a model that comes with some sort of cover or case that will allow you to protect it in the long run.

This detail is of particular importance if you are focused on adding to the durability of the hydrometer you have chosen. Beer & Brewing Magazine recommends opting for a model that does not come with a paper scale as it might deliver inaccurate readings.

 

 

5 Best Hydrometers (Reviews) in 2024

 

Now that you have found most of the basics that go into selecting the perfect product for your requirements, we suggest throwing an eye on the next products. From what we’ve gathered, they are quite convenient and easy to use and are made from reliable materials. Check them out if you have the time.

 

 

1. Brewer’s Elite Hydrometer & Test Jar Combo

 

One of the reasons that we picked this choice is that it has been praised time and again. Brewers seem to think that this hydrometer offers plenty of value for the money, although we have to be honest and say that its price isn’t all that off-putting.

The product comes with a 250ml test jar. It’s also accompanied by a tough, hard case that you can use for convenient storage and the microfiber cloth that you will find is part of the deal will allow you to make sure that there is nothing left on the surface of the product.

The model can be utilized for beers, ciders, wines, and even Kombucha. In this sense, it measures the percentage of alcohol present in your brewing. The color bands are a neat addition, without a doubt, as are the easy-to-read fonts. Finally, if you are still feeling a tad wary as to whether you should try out this product, you might want to know that it is covered by a money-back guarantee.

 

Pros

The model comes with a test jar, a hard case, as well as a cloth, so there’s no doubt that you will be getting your money’s worth if you decide to opt for this choice.

The product can be utilized for a variety of purposes, mainly to measure out the alcohol percentage in your cider, beer, or even Kombucha if that’s what you’re interested in.

The alcohol meter is made from glass, so it will likely provide more accurate readings compared to models made out of plastic.

With the assistance of this hydrometer, you can measure out the specific gravity, the potential alcohol, as well as the Brix/Balling scale of your brewing.

 

Cons

Some users argue that using this product is far too scientific for their knowledge and skills, but that’s not something that cannot be mended with a bit of research and reading.

Others argue that the unit they received wasn’t calibrated properly. However, thanks to the excellent return policy made available by the manufacturing company, they were able to get a hydrometer that worked for them.

 

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2. LabStock LB32-HYDRO Master Distillers Hydrometer Test Jar

 

If what you are in need of is a brand new test jar, be sure to consider this alternative as it is made from glass and has been found to be reliable through and through. The 3-inch diameter base has been equipped with three contact points so as to ensure that any tipping does not occur during use.

In some respects, the LabStock alternative cannot even be compared to a typical hydrometer, but it does prove its worth if you have broken your test jar and are looking to replace it with something remotely similar.

It’s worth noting that most of the feedback that we have analyzed in relation to this model is favorable. In fact, the vast majority of the brewers who have chosen it seems to have nothing but good things to say about it. It gets the job done fine and doesn’t require a good degree of technical skills.

 

Pros

Unlike other choices, this one is made out of glass, so that might be a detail you might want to consider when making your final decision.

The length of the test jar is 12 inches while its height is 3 inches, so there’s plenty of room for your brews.

The neat thing about the base of this product is that it has been fitted with three contact points that are made to resist tipping. In a way, this feature adds to the overall durability ensured by this test jar.

The product has been equipped with a pour spout, as well as a fire-polished rim that is said to resist chipping.

 

Cons

Some buyers report that the glass is rather fragile and while the base might have those three points, the test jar could get broken with ease. Therefore, it is a good idea to pay attention when using this product.

 

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3. Sodial Hydrometer for Home Brew Beer

 

If you are in need of something with the help of which you can measure the alcohol content of mead, wine, or beer, perhaps this Brew Tapper alternative might do you good. It doesn’t cost a fortune, that we can tell you, and even if you aren’t going to break the bank in order to purchase the product, there’s still that money back guarantee you can take advantage of.

The model is easy to use and read and is more than capable of measuring Brix, potential alcohol, as well as specific gravity. This model is made from glass, so it can offer you the chance to perform accurate measurements. Just make sure to handle it with caution so as to avoid breaking it.

With this model, you can assess the density of your wort without having to worry about anything. In fact, this option is made to assist you all throughout your brewing process, so why not give it a shot?

 

Pros

Based on the feedback that we have consulted in relation to this choice, it seems to do its job precisely as it has been designed.

The model is made from glass, and while this detail might look like a drawback in the eyes of some, it is an advantage in the eyes of others.

The hydrometer is easy to use and can provide accurate data, so whether you are a beer, wine, or Kombucha brewer, you can employ it in your experiments.

The guarantee ensured by the manufacturing company is rather reassuring, so be sure to get in touch with customer support if you are feeling dissatisfied with the quality of the product.

 

Cons

Some owners who have tested samples of tap water at 60 degrees Fahrenheit were less impressed with the accuracy of the readings.

 

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4. Homebrew Guys Triple Scale Hydrometer Kit

 

As is the case with some of the other alternatives that we have talked about in our selection, this one doesn’t break the bank. It’s convenient and versatile and can be used to measure the potential alcohol, BRIX, and gravity of various concoctions. Besides, it even comes with a test tube.

The applications for which this hydrometer is used are close to endless as you can use it with wine, cider, and a variety of other homemade drinking products, including juice. An instruction sheet that details the way that the model ought to be used, as well as a protective casing made out of plastic are both provided in the package.

From what we have gathered, the materials used in the development of this product are non-toxic and cause no harm to the environment. So, in case you are looking for an eco-friendly choice, this one is totally worth considering.

 

Pros

The Homebrews Guys model comes with a test tube and straightforward instructions that you can utilize even if you aren’t experienced in the art of brewing your own wine, cider, or beer.

The hydrometer seems to be rather easy to use, especially when compared to other choices available nowadays.

Since the materials utilized in the development of this choice are non-toxic, you needn’t worry about the environmental impact of your hobby or profession.

The test tube is made from plastic, so it genuinely has a high chance of putting up with a lot of wear and tear before it breaks down.

 

Cons

Some owners note that the container made for pouring the liquid in might be slightly larger than they would have expected it to be.

Others note that this choice might strictly be destined for those interested in volume brewing and less so for those wanting to make their own Kombucha.

 

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5. Hydrometer Beer Wine & Glass Test Jar

 

Whether you require a hydrometer for mash, wine, wort, or beer, the fact of the matter is that this choice can most likely meet and even exceed your expectations. There is no trace of lead or mercury in this hydrometer, so it is both safe for you and the environment. The accuracy of the readings is not a matter of debate as the brand guarantees that what you’ll get from this hydrometer is nothing but correct data.

The model is easy to utilize and doesn’t raise too many difficulties even for those who are less accustomed to using this type of product. In case you were feeling wary as to whether you should order this choice or not, perhaps you might want to know that it is accompanied by a cleaning cloth and has been covered in bubble wrap so as to ensure that it reaches you safely.

A nice-looking box is part of the deal, as well, so you can even give it to someone who is passionate about brewing.

 

Pros

Usability is at the core of this product, at least judging by the information that we have found in relation to it and the feedback that some owners have provided.

The triple scale hydrometer can be used for a variety of purposes. You can even utilize it for dessert if that is your purpose.

The test jar is made from glass, and that’s always something to look forward to even though it is slightly risky to products made from plastic.

The instructions provided in the package are comprehensive and will let you know what you have to do in order to make the most of your hydrometer. A cleaning cloth can also be found in the box.

 

Cons

Some owners have complained about the fact that the plastic jar is not specifically made for liquids containing a higher percentage of alcohol.

 

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Ioana Moldovan

Ioana’s professional experience in the optics field has helped her understand the value of passing her knowledge forward. Her curious personality helps her gather useful information for her readers and her goal is to make technical information fun and accessible to everyone.

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