Portable scales – Buying guide & Comparison
Looking for the best portable weighing scale? If time is of the essence and you can’t find several minutes to go through our comprehensive guide, perhaps this paragraph might help you choose wisely. Based on our research and most of the consumer reports we have come across, it appears that you should consider the Amir 500g/0.01g if you’re looking for a high precision scale that isn’t particularly heavy and that can be used under multiple circumstances. The model boasts most of the features you might need from such a product, so you’ll find that it is outfitted with a Tare, a backlit display, as well smart button functions. Also, it doesn’t take up too much space, so it can be used both in the lab and at home. If the Amir 500g/0.01g is no longer available, maybe you ought to bear the Proster COMINHKPR127467 in mind.
What is the best portable digital scale available for sale these days? If you are having a bit of trouble coming up with an answer to this question, we’re here to help. Check out our straightforward buyer’s guide as it can tell you all the factors you ought to give some thought to if you wish to invest your cents in something worth the while.
Just make sure to look at your own specific needs and preferences to make sure that you don’t risk getting a hardly usable product. Some people may have certain expectations, but they might not be the same as those of others.
Consider your purpose
The first thing that ought to be on your mind when you’re in the market for a new scale is what you’re trying to achieve with its help. Because the idea of portability is somewhat vague, you need to decide whether you need a postal scale, a lab weighing scale, or one that you can use in your kitchen or for any task in your home.
While some argue that this matter might be of minor importance, the fact is that not all products are made the same. For example, lab grade scales are designed to be extremely specific because the data has to be precise.
The same goes for postal alternatives because they define the price that one has to pay for sending out a parcel. On the other hand, scales used in the kitchen or for DIY-ing don’t have to be so exact, so that is why they are often priced lower.
Look at the capacity
It goes without saying that a unit that has gathered the best portable scale reviews isn’t particularly heavy or large. Therefore, it’s probably not a winner in terms of capacity. Usually, such compact alternatives are capable of weighing up to 1 pound or even less. Keep in mind that most lab digital scales have their capacities specified in grams instead of oz or lbs.
So, what are the samples you’re going to use the scale for? This is a question you have to ask yourself to make sure you don’t risk ordering the wrong option. Scales designed for jewelry making and other DIY activities have a lower capacity, but many kitchen scales boast capacities up to thirty pounds.
Accuracy
This feature is a good indication of the quality of the scale. The accuracy of a balance can be defined as the smallest increment that the unit can provide in a readout. It stands to reason that models that are designed for lab use are particularly accurate, as are those for jewelry making, for example. Less portable options such as postage scales don’t have to be extraordinarily precise.
Convenience and ease of use
When shopping for such a device, you need to make sure that you’re aware of your expertise in the field. Obviously, if you’re in the market for a lab scale, you’ve probably worked with one before. If you haven’t utilized such a device, you have to make sure that the model you are ordering is usable and fits your skills at this time.
Look for models with digital displays, buttons that are easy to push, and self-calibrating features. Also, you will have to decide on the way you’re going to supply the energy that’s necessary for the scale to do its job. Portability ensures that the unit is compact and easy to carry around, but it doesn’t automatically mean that the device has to be used only with batteries.
If possible, opt for a model that can be powered both by batteries and a typical outlet.
5 Best Portable Scales (Reviews) in 2024
To make it somewhat easier for you to make up your mind, we’ve showcased some of the critically acclaimed alternatives below. All of these units have been highly spoken of by those who have chosen it, whether they’ve used them in or out of the lab.
Contents
1. Amir Digital Kitchen Scale High-Precision Pocket Food Scale
This Amir unit is a particularly versatile product that doesn’t cost a fortune, so it is definitely destined for those who aren’t prepared to make an investment, at least not when it comes to purchasing a new scale. A great thing about it is that it’s quite accurate as the minimum weight it can measure is 0.01g. The maximum capacity is 500g.
Unlike many other choices we have come across, this one can withstand the test of time as it has been constructed using high-quality stainless steel and ABS. Since the platform is made out of stainless steel, all you need to do to get it clean is wipe it with a damp cloth.
This pocket scale is small and convenient and comes with a clear blue backlit LCD display. Something that needs to be added with respect to this model is that you can convert the measurement so as to visualize the data in g, oz, tl, or gn.
Pros
This Amir alternative is convenient and easy to utilize and can measure anything up to 500g.
There won’t be anything stopping you from calibrating the device in accordance with your preferences, so if you prefer another unit, you really have nothing to worry about.
The compact design of this pocket scale makes it possible for it to take up as little space as possible, whether you want to place it on your desk or somewhere else.
When it comes to cleaning and maintenance, this model is a winner as it boasts a stainless steel platform that you can wipe with a damp cloth.
Cons
Some owners have complained about the fact that the scale needs to be on an entirely flat surface in order to provide accurate readouts.
Other buyers note that the scale might have a tendency to switch itself from pounds to ounces to grams.
Buy from Amazon.com
2. Proster Digital Food Scale Portable Kitchen Cooking Scale
This Proster alternative is another space-saver; so, if you’re looking for a scale that does not take up too much space on any countertop, lab island, or desk, this one is surely worth considering. What’s more, the Proster is quite affordable and won’t ruin your budget for life.
As is the case with other models we have mentioned in this selection, the Proster boasts a platform made out of stainless steel, so it is quite easy to clean. The neat thing about this option is that it is accompanied by two ABS plastic trays that can be utilized either for protecting the platform or for actual weighing purposes.
As this is a digital scale, it has been outfitted with an LCD display that can tell you the weight of the objects, substances, or supplies you’re trying to weigh. You can switch between weight units by pushing the M button.
Pros
This product is an affordable alternative that needs to be borne in mind as we’ve noticed that it usually costs under thirty dollars.
The mode comes with excellent accuracy and has been found to weigh anything ranging from 0.01 to 500g.
There are six weight units you can choose from. So, if you want to utilize the scale in your kitchen, you can use the oz scale; if you plan to use the device in your lab, you can safely utilize the gram unit.
To save power, this model shuts itself off in a matter of 60 seconds after having been used for the last time.
Cons
This is not the right alternative you should take into account if you want to weigh more than 500 grams.
In order for the results to be entirely accurate, it is recommended that the objects are placed in the center of the platform.
Buy from Amazon.com
3. Fristaden Lab Digital Precision Analytical Balance Lab Scale Self Calibrating
Although it is slightly bigger and heavier compared to other choices in this selection, the Fristaden unit is definitely worth considering, especially if what you are searching for is a model destined for laboratory use.
Because the unit is a digital analytical precision balance scale, it is impressively reliable and comes with a variety of features that recommend it. While units designed for kitchen use and other activities cannot be calibrated by the user, this one can.
Besides, this unit comes with an internal battery that can be recharged so that the services of the scale aren’t utilized strictly in one place. The model has been outfitted with a digital display and can measure anything in grams and ounces. The deal also includes a weighing tray, a power adapter, a 500g standard mass, as well as a plastic shield.
Most of those who have opted for the Fristaden unit say that it is accurate and does what it’s been designed to do.
Pros
The model comes with calibration pieces, both Tare and Zero function keys, a low battery indicator, as well as two types of weighing units.
The platform that the model has been outfitted with can be cleaned with ease, which enables you to save some time if you aren’t a great fan of fiddling with your equipment.
One of the core benefits ensured by the design of this product is that it comes with an internal battery that can be recharged. This way, you don’t have any limitations in terms of the places you could use the scale.
The box includes a variety of accessories ranging from a plastic shield to a power adapter and a standard mass weighing 500 grams.
Cons
There have been owners who have complained about the user manual as it isn’t particularly comprehensive.
Buy from Amazon.com
4. Toprime Elite Series Digital Pocket Weight Scale
Yet another versatile choice is this Toprime alternative as it doesn’t seem to be designed for any particular purpose. It’s an accurate pocket weight scale that can prove its value both in the lab and in the kitchen. Just like some of its competitors, it can weigh both grams and ounces.
The model comes with a transparent plastic cover of which the purpose is to protect the platform from any mishaps involving spills. As stated above, the neat thing about the 8006 is that it can serve you whether you plan to utilize it for mailing, cooking, office purposes, or making handmade jewelry.
The design includes four buttons that are easy to push. Both the taring and the calibration can be done conveniently and efficiently, so you needn’t worry about anything if you decide to opt for this alternative. Some of the buyers note that they’ve used it for weighing powder, water, and virtually anything weighing up to 600g.
Pros
This budget-friendly digital pocket scale can prove to be a friend in need in a plethora of situations, whether you plan to use it for DIY-ing or in your laboratory.
The maximum capacity of this model is 600g, and its accuracy is 0.01g.
If you are not accustomed to using grams and can’t be bothered to make any calculations in this sense, you don’t have to worry about anything as there are six settings you can use with this scale.
The platform of this unit is made from stainless steel so as to ensure that the product is a winner when it comes to durability.
The backlit LCD display, as well as the buttons that the product has been outfitted with, are easy to utilize.
Cons
As the tray is made from plastic, it is not the epitome of durability.
Buy from Amazon.com
5. Ohaus CS200 CS Compact Portable Scales
Ohaus makes some of the most popular scales out there, so it goes without saying that you have a high chance of being entirely satisfied with the features offered by this choice. Its maximum capacity is 200g, so it is not destined for a plethora of uses, unless your samples are truly lightweight.
Both in the lab and at home, this model can give you a hand with performing a variety of tasks. The unit has been equipped with a pan made out of stainless steel and boasts an ABS plastic housing. There haven’t been any complaints regarding the durability of the item, so it’s safe to say that it can withstand the test of time.
The backlit LCD can tell you the weight you’re trying to measure without too much effort. What’s more, the CS200 comes with a battery saving feature that makes the unit shut itself off when it’s no longer in use.
Pros
The CS200 comes with an auto shut off feature that you might fail to find in other portable models in the same line.
To ensure that the scale withstands the test of time, the manufacturing brand has constructed the pan using stainless steel.
This model boasts a mechanical and software overload protection.
This product can be used to measure solids and liquids that weigh up to 200 grams.
Because it has a height of just 1.5 inches and a length of just 8 inches, this Ohaus choice is one of the most compact and portable alternatives available these days.
Cons
It’s rather obvious that, due to the limitation imposed by the maximum capacity of this option, you won’t be able to weigh items or substances heavier than 200 grams.
Some of the features of this product are somewhat basic when compared to those of its many competitors.
Buy from Amazon.com
Bibliography:
1) How can you measure weight?
4) What I Learned from Weighing My Food
