Best rated refractometers – Guide & Reviews

 

Top refractometers reviewed – Buying guide & Comparison for 2024​

 

Are you looking for the best refractometer on the market, but you’re too pressed for time to go through all the information we gathered? You only need to read this short paragraph, and you will have the answer to your searches. The vast majority of customers’ reviews, sales numbers, and expert opinions point out that the Milwaukee MA887 Digital should be the first product to consider. This unit can measure any PSU value from 0 to 50, which means that it can be used by a large variety of applications without a glitch. Furthermore, its accuracy is excellent, with only an error of +/-2 PSU. Calibrating the unit is simple, and you should be able to do it on your own, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations. Should you no longer find this model, the Atago 3810 PAL-1 comes second on our list, as it is almost just as good.

 

 

Comparison table

 

 

 

The ordinary man on the street may not have use for a refractometer, but a veterinarian, lab technician, gemologist, marine biologist, or even wine grape growers, homebrewers, beekeepers and those who own an aquarium will surely benefit from keeping this type of device handy. This field or laboratory device measures the index of refraction of a sample solution. What distinguishes the best refractometer from a run-of-the-mill device?

A suitable type for your needs

A refractometer can be one of different types. It can be a standard handheld refractometer, a digital handheld refractometer, an Abbe or laboratory refractometer, and an inline process refractometer. For the measurement of the refractive indices of different gases, a Rayleigh refractometer is typically used. There are also automatic refractometers that measure a sample’s refractive index automatically, which is done based on the determination of the critical angle of total reflection.

A traditional or standard handheld refractometer is an analog device that measures the refractive index of a sample liquid. It employs the critical angle principle that governs the way a lens or prism projects a shadow line onto a small reticle made of glass located inside the refractometer. The shadow line is then viewed through a magnifying eyepiece. The sample is placed between the small cover plate and measuring prism. The light channeled through the test sample is either totally reflected internally or passed directly to the reticle.

The reading is taken where a shadow line forms between the lighted and dark area and crosses the scale. You will want a handheld model to have automatic temperature compensation because refractive index is highly temperature dependent.

A digital handheld refractometer operates like a traditional handheld one by utilizing the critical angle principle. The difference lies in the way a LED light source focuses light on a prism component or the underside instead of being channeled through a reticle or being totally internally reflected.

A digital handheld refractometer may be more precise than a traditional handheld model but may be less precise compared to a benchtop unit. A relatively large quantity of sample solution may also be required because it will not be spread thinly against the refractometer prism. Various units of measurement may be used to display the result and they include Brix, concentration, boiling point, Plato units or specific gravity, freezing point and others. The refractometer that a brewer would use is the same type that a fruit grower also uses to measure the concentration of sugar in their harvest to see if the fruits are ripe enough. This is called a Brix refractometer, and it measures 0 to 30 Brix or 1.000 to 1.120 specific gravity, which is a very useful range for home brewing purposes.

For just such a purpose, steer clear of models containing electronic components or that measure battery acid or some other chemical substance. Refractometers that measure battery acid or other chemical solutions will require the use of available equations for conversion to Brix, aside from likely measuring the incorrect range of refractive indices.

Brix refractometers measure the concentration of sucrose in a water and sucrose mixture to find the index of refraction of the sample being tested. Refractometers in the automobile maintenance industry measure the concentration of coolant and the pH value of the coolant oils used in the CNC machining process. Most models come with a sample well made of metal, which is positioned around the prism so it will be easy to clean off a sticky sample such as honey.

An Abbe refractometer is a benchtop instrument that offers high-precision measurement of the index of refraction. The liquid sample is placed into a thin layer sandwiched between a refracting and an illuminating prism. Projected through the illuminating prism is the light source, and a detector mounted on the refracting prism back side shows a dark and light region.

An inline process refractometer is geared for the continuous measurement of a fluid flowing inside a tank or through a pipe. This type of instrument comprises a sensor mounted inline with the flow of fluid and connected to a control box, which typically provides a digital readout along with relay outputs for controlling valves and pumps and 4-20mA analog outputs. The sensor is not placed inline of the process but in a bypass linked by a thin tube. You can look here to find borescopes in case you need to explore those tubes.

 

Useful features for measurement

Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC) proves to be useful but not a strict necessity if you own a temperature compensation chart. Models that don’t feature ATC will require the temperature compensation to be optically performed and not just as an electronic effect. A good cheap refractometer will still provide an accurate reading despite the absence of ATC since only the instrument’s temperature is important because you will only need a small quantity of sample compared to the mass of the device itself.

That being said, premium quality refractometers use ATC as a selling point to enable them to report the same value across a wide range of practical temperatures, generally between 13 and 29 degrees Celsius or 55 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit. ATC becomes a worthy feature to have in your device as a couple of drops of even boiling wort can cool quickly to within that range, giving all-grain brewers a specific advantage for monitoring the runoff gravity typically around 170 degrees Fahrenheit. ATC enables you to use the reading you obtain.

The best digital refractometer comes with software to avoid reading interferences due to excessive ambient light. Shading the prism area prevents interference as well. Some models come with dual or multiples scales. They have the capability of inputting a special scale using conversion information that is known. Some digital handheld units are IP65 rated to signify they are water resistant, so you can wash them under running water.

Easy to calibrate and use

Compared to a hygrometer that simply floats in the solution you’re testing, a refractometer is really not as simple to use. The refractometer makes it tricky to calculate the final gravity adjustment. It pays to know what you’re getting when you buy a refractometer. You will also need to calibrate the refractometer prior to use. Fortunately, calibrating most refractometers is simply done using a sample of distilled water. Most units also come with a calibration screw or knob that enables setting to zero. This is what you will need to do: adjust the refractometer to zero while distilled water is in it. You may need to make a few tries to succeed in this process. For precise readings, you also need to calibrate the device using a wort sample with known specific gravity.

To test a sample, all you need to do is open the sample plate, ensure it is clean and dry, and add a few drops of the test solution. Close the sample plate, making sure there aren’t any air bubbles, and then hold up the instrument against a natural light source. It should be easy to read the instrument as well simply by reading straight from the sight scale, with the reading most often in percent/degrees Brix or refractive index (RI).

 

9 Best Refractometers (Reviews) in 2024

 

There are plenty of options on refractometers on the market. Although this can somewhat complicate the shopping process, we have designed the above buying guide to provide helpful information and tips for spotting the best product for sale. We have also showcased the best products below for more help.

 

 

1. Milwaukee MA887 Digital Salinity Refractometer 

 

The Milwaukee MA887 Digital is a dependable unit, as it is laboratory tested, and capable of providing you with accurate readings in regards to the salinity of your samples. The yellow LED display makes it reasonably easy to read the results and you won’t need extra light for this.

One great thing about this model is the automatic temperature compensation feature that contributes to the accuracy of the readings. The unit is capable of displaying the measurements in three different units: PSU – which stands for Practical Salinity Units, ppt – which stands for salinity expressed in parts per thousand, and SG – which is the abbreviation for Specific Gravity.

The unit will give you readings in just several seconds, so you will find it pretty handy for various applications. The error margin is small, and it can calculate PSU for values between 0 and 50.

 

Pros

The Milwaukee MA887 Digital is an excellent option if you are looking for a refractometer to use for a broad variety of industrial applications.

Easy calibration is one of the positive points on this unit, and you only need some distilled or deionized water to do that.

Featuring automatic temperature compensation, the device will give you good readings that you can use in your projects without a problem.

You can rest assured that this model works as intended, as it is laboratory tested and designed to give you accurate readings.

With an error margin of only +/-2 PSU, the unit can give you any reading between 0 and 50 PSU, and it can also display results in ppt or SG.

 

Cons

When you deal with really low salinity values, the error margin may be too high to present you with the same accurate readings as for a higher value.

 

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2. Atago 4518 4418 Digital Hand Held Pocket Urea Refractometer

 

This digital refractometer is ideal for calculating salinity values from low to mid-range Brix. The values it can display vary from 0.0% to 53.0%, and the temperature it can register goes from 9.0C to 99.9C. What you may like about this unit a lot is that it is truly a pocket unit and it can offer you the possibility to carry it along with you for field applications.

Furthermore, one-handed operation is possible, and you will also notice that the model won’t allow direct light to influence the accuracy of your readings. It comes with an ELI (External Light Interference) feature that will tell you right away when direct light hits the screen.

It features automatic temperature compensation so that you can still have accurate readings in settings with fluctuating temperature. You will like not only the ease of operation but also how fast it takes measurements.

 

Pros

This refractometer is highly portable, and due to its small size, you can operate it with only one hand and carry it with you everywhere you go.

It is also resistant to dust and water and has an IP65 rating, which means that you will be able to use it in various situations.

Users will appreciate that it can compensate for fluctuating temperatures and it will display the accurate readings within just three seconds.

Direct light won’t be an issue, either, since its external light interference feature will warn you right away if your readings might be influenced.

Because the unit has an IP65 rating, it means that the unit resists dust and water, and you can use it in damp environments without a glitch.

 

Cons

While the unit seems to enjoy many positive reactions from users, one complaint is related to the fact that it doesn’t come with instructions in English.

 

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3. Vee Gee Scientific BX-1 Handheld Refractometer

 

There are many various applications for this refractometer, as the manufacturer indicates in the technical specs that it can be used for Brix measurements of 0.0% to 32.0%. That includes, but it is not limited to, calculating the values of sugar content in fruits, soft drinks, milk, coffee, soups, water-soluble detergents, and industrial fluids, as well as other samples.

You won’t need much to calibrate the unit, and the only thing you’ll require for this will be distilled water. Because it is portable, you will appreciate the ease of use. Another aspect users appreciate about it is that the body is all metal and has an outer shell made from rubber.

Your hand heat won’t influence your readings because the rubber grip protects the unit from it. Temperature compensation is carried on manually, and the telescope shape of the unit will help you manipulate it with ease.

 

Pros

This unit uses the Brix measurement range, and the values it can display vary between 0.0% and 32.0%, which is enough for individual and even industrial applications.

Many people like its streamlined design that allows you to hold it with ease when conducting experiments.

A wide variety of fluids can be used as samples, such as aqueous film forming foams which are used by firefighters, and industrial substances.

You don’t need to worry that the temperature of your hand will affect the measurements as a rubber outer shell protects the metal body.

In order to calibrate the unit, you only need some distilled water and to make use of the calibration ring provided.

 

Cons

One thing you will notice about this unit is that its measuring range is not as broad as you may see in other units, so that might influence your decision.

 

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4. Robinair 75240 Coolant And Battery Refractometer

 

The product is mainly designed to measure the freezing point of ethylene glycol or propylene, based on cooling systems. It can also be used to check the strength of electrolyte solution batteries, which makes it a smart investment in many fields. 

This precision instrument boasts high-quality optics and ultra-smooth focusing to provide reliable and accurate test results in the shortest time possible. It features a broad scale range that can measure temperatures between -60 degrees and +32 degrees Fahrenheit. 

The device is delivered with a complete kit of useful accessories, including the said refractometer with a rugged aluminum housing, a screwdriver, an eyedropper, a cleaning cloth, a vial of distilled water, and others. 

It works based on a simple principle – whenever a liquid is placed on the tool prism, the light passing through it is bent. The more concentrated the liquid, the more light it will bend, which helps you measure, then, the freezing point.

 

Pros

The tool is delivered with a complete set of useful accessories to make testing as accurate as possible, even if you’re not a professional. Thus, amongst others, you’ll find a screwdriver, a rigid plastic case to carry the refractometer and the accessories, a vial of distilled water, an eyedropper, and others. 

It has a broad temperature measuring band between -60 degrees and +32 degrees Fahrenheit, which makes it an accurate tool when measuring the freezing point of ethylene glycol. 

It used high-quality optics equipped with smooth and easy focusing to provide accurate test results. 

When used correctly, the device can give you precious information about how soon you should replace the coolant from your vehicle to ensure smooth riding in all weather and temperature conditions. 

 

Cons

Please bear in mind that the refractometer doesn’t measure the coolant pH level of a vehicle but only the concentration of antifreeze in a coolant solution. 

 

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5. Professional Automatic Refractometer

 

If you want the best cheap refractometer on the market, the Magnum Media Salinity 10ATC 5546 should be the first on your shopping list. This impressive product boasts Automatic Temperature Compensation feature so you can save time and effort during measuring processes.

You won’t need to wait for your sample solution to come to room temperature before taking a reading. You can take readings outdoors also even when the temperature is between 50 degrees fahrenheit and 86 degrees fahrenheit or 10 degrees celsius to 30 degrees celsius. Replacing your less reliable hydrometer, this device measures salinity using two scales: specific gravity and percent. It has a range of 0 to 100 percent/degrees and 1.000 to 1.070 Salinity SG.

This seawater refractometer comes in its own hard case to ensure protection for its sensitive measuring elements and to facilitate easy transport and efficient storage. Calibration is easy using a 35 ppt salinity standard or plain distilled water, ensuring consistent accuracy in readings every time.

All you need for reading is strong light including natural daylight, whether in sunny or cloudy weather, as well as a flashlight or lamp. Lightweight at just 9.6 ounces, this tool measures 8.1 x 3.2 x 1.7 inches for easy holding in the hand. The textured handle ensures easy and secure gripping while the eyecup ensures easy focus on the eyepiece.

 

Pros

The Magnum Salinity Media 10ATC 5546 is the perfect refractometer to use when you want to measure various salinity levels of saltwater in the aquarium or the ocean water. This device features a sturdy and compact design for easy use.

This refractometer is made of aircraft aluminum, a material that ensures the necessary, solid durability. The device also features the ATC technology which allows you to deal with readings outdoors, even for temperatures that reach 10 to 30 Celsius degrees.

The dual salinity scales in the case of this device are 0-100ppt & 1.000-1.070 for specific gravity. You can calibrate it either with distilled water or using the 35 ppt salinity standard.

 

Cons

The only major downside you may notice in the case of this refractor is that it does not come with the necessary solution used to calibrate it.

 

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6. Ade Advanced Optics Tri-Scale Clinical Refractometer

 

A lot of the praise this Ade Advanced Optics model gets from satisfied owners relate to its accuracy. It’s been tested multiple times against hydrometers for specific gravity readings, and it usually came within 0,1% of the reading shown by the former.

This is far better than most of us will need, and the product also offers all the convenience of a dedicated brew refractometer.

If it needs an initial adjustment, you can use something as common as distilled water for the task, since it’s Brix meter goes all the way to zero, and be ready to take accurate measurements in a little more than a minute.

Since it features automatic temperature compensation, this will likely be the last calibration you will have to make, unless dropping it on the ground or exposing it to frost.

It also comes with all regular accessories, meaning a manual, a screwdriver, special wipes for its lenses and a pipette.

 

Pros

Specific Gravity readings are extremely accurate on this model; it was compared to precise hydrometers and offered almost the same results.

The Brix measurements can go down to zero, allowing you to calibrate the model with great ease.

It takes less than a minute to get readings with this device, so you will find it particularly handy for all your homebrewing purposes.

The automatic temperature adjustment is helpful, and you may not need to re-calibrate the model unless you drop it by accident or you expose it to frost.

Some nice accessories such as a pipette and a screwdriver, are delivered with your purchase.

 

Cons

Some buyers mention that the refractometer is not particularly easy to read, especially if you have poor eyesight.

Other people who bought and reviewed this product say that it feels cheap, and it may not be very durable, but that is still debatable.

 

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7. Vee Gee Scientific STX-3 Handheld Refractometer

 

One of the greatest qualities of this refractometer is its lightweight design that ensures easy handling with just one hand. Therefore, it is portable and easy to carry around anywhere you go. 

It is designed to measure the salt concentration in parts per thousand (PPT) and specific gravity (SG) of seawater for temperatures ranging between 50 degrees and 86 degrees Fahrenheit (10-30 degrees Celsius).

The automatic temperature compensation feature ensures immediate and accurate calibration readings, without interfering with the temperature outside. 

The product features a durable outer shell made of metal and rubber and a telescope-shaped streamlined design. The rubber grip prevents the hand heat from interfering with the measurement, while the non-roll stand protects the refractometer against damage. Also, the analog scale with a bright, high-contrast display ensures increased visibility in all lighting conditions. 

The optical glass prism encased in metal ensures a quick temperature equilibrium between the prism and the sample. The accuracy of this device is +/- 1%. 

 

Pros

The product is delivered in a zippered vinyl carrying case and also contains an instructions manual and a plastic transfer pipet to ensure accurate testing and reading. 

The body of the refractometer is made of high-quality metal to resist against tear, wear, and different temperature changes, while the rubber band prevents the hand heat from interfering with the testing. 

Unlike other products, this one comes already calibrated but can be further calibrated using distilled water. 

The device is used to measure the salinity level in various liquids and can be used in a wide array of industries, from the food and beverage to culinary, pharmaceutical, educational, scientific, and others. 

 

Cons

The eyecups of this device seem to fall off rather easily and, unfortunately, you cannot find replacement ones on the market. 

Although not a product flaw, the protective case seems of inferior quality, and the zippers may break easily. 

 

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8. Brix Refractometer for Homebrew Beer Wort iTavah Dual Scale

 

Most owners were pleased to note that this iTavah product came ready calibrated and fit for use straight out of the box. Its surprisingly good accuracy when testing for Specific Gravity was also very well appreciated, this device consistently coming to the same results as a hydrometer in repeated tests.

The error range when measuring Brix, as specified by the manufacturer, is only 0,2%, which makes the COMINHK121676 on par with the best products on the market. Same value for Specific Gravity measurements is equally good, between 0,001 and 0,002 on a range of 1000 to 1130.

Of course, the automatic temperature compensation is there — so you’ll only have to tweak it in extraordinary circumstances — together with all the usual accessories for your convenience: a precision calibration screwdriver, a 3ml pipette for samples, lens cleaning cloth, a user guide and a rigid carrying box.  

 

Pros

You will be pleased to hear that you can use this particular model out of the box since it comes already calibrated, with no extra action needed on your part.

The error margin for Brix calculations is just 0.2%, which means that this model is as competent as other similar refractometers on the market.

Tweaking the device is possible, in case it goes through some accident, so you can do that if the need arises.

The rigid case serves well for storing the device when not in use or when you need to take it along with you on trips.

Other accessories, such as a pipette, and a cloth for wiping the lens, are included with your purchase, for maximum convenience.

 

Cons

When you want to use this refractometer for beer, you will need to calibrate it to a known value for wort, a reviewer recommends.

 

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9. Dual Scale Brix & Beer Sugar Wine SG Wort1.000-1.120 Brix0-32% Refractometer

 

The Happybrew RSG-100ATC is yet another well-appreciated refractometer that “works as advertised” and received “no complaints”.

It’s easy to use and maintain, durable enough to handle a fall thanks to its rubber upper part, convenient since it performs corrections for temperature automatically (from 10 to 30 Celsius), and it comes with everything you will require to operate it — a pipette, a Philips head screwdriver, and a protective case.

The only thing lacking is a cleaning cloth, but the task of keeping the lens clear can easily be fulfilled by a fine cloth or even napkin you have lying around the house. A deerskin wipe for reading glasses will work best although it might cost you a couple of dollars at the local store.

Speaking of cost, the RSG-100ATC can usually be purchased a little cheaper than other products that offer the same functionality, which may be a selling point for the more stingy brewer.

 

Pros

The temperature is adjusted automatically, so there is no need for extra calibration, as the manufacturer indicates.

The rubber exterior allows the refractometer to handle a fall if accidents happen, and the delicate mechanisms inside will be left undamaged.

A protective case is delivered with your purchase so that you can store away the refractometer without a glitch.

A pipette for retrieving samples is also included, as is a Phillips head screwdriver, needed for extra calibration if the need arises.

One of its selling points is the low price that makes it affordable compared to other models on the market.

 

Cons

One reviewer complains about the fact that the manufacturer doesn’t indicate that this tool will not work once the fermentation process starts.

The markings on the device are quite small, and that means that some people might not find them so easy to read.

 

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Unavailable products

 

Ade Advanced Optics RF15 RHB-32ATC

 

If you’re looking for the best auto refractometer, the Ade Advanced Optics RF15 is just the right one for you. Providing accuracy to +/- 0.20% Brix, this instrument offers a 0 to 32% Brix scale to read a variety of samples easily. It comes with Automatic Temperature Compensation feature so you won’t have to bring your sample to room temperature first prior to measuring the refractive index.

You can place the sample straight on the sample plate and take the reading right there. Boasting a rigid design, this device is made of durable machined aluminum and not thin ‘carbon’ plastic, ensuring years of use without being prone to chipping and corrosion.

Ideal for testing vegetables, fruits and grasses, the RHB-32ATC comes in a clear case for problem-free carrying in the pocket or gear box while ensuring easy storage and protection for the sensitive measuring components of the instrument.

This also makes a handy device to use in wine or beer making and for the maintenance of CNC Coolants such as synthetics, neo-synthetics, semi-synthetics and soluble oils, along with water-soluble drawing and stamping compounds. Use this refractometer to ensure quality control in your manufactured products and harvests to keep your customers satisfied with your offerings consistently.

 

Pros

This professional refractometer from Ade Advanced is perfect for measuring the concentrations of aqueous solutions. Its readings are said to be accurate, judging by the feedback that the unit has gathered in this sense.

All that is required to measure effectively with it are a few drops of liquid. This is a useful device for people working in various business areas including the manufacturing, chemistry or the agricultural industries.

One of the greatest features of this product is that it features the ATC Control function. This is the compensation feature that makes readings even more accurate during your testing sessions.

If you need to test a solution to make sure that it features the right concentration, this is the perfect product for you to use.

 

Cons

Refractometers are known not to be the best at producing the exact FG (Final Gravity) of a liquid solution, so if you are interested in a product that will give you definitive final gravity readings, you might want to expand your research.

 

 

Agriculture Solutions SSA0010

 

Easily the best refractometer for saltwater aquarium, the Agriculture Solutions Dual Scale can be used to test the salinity plus specific gravity of water. Equipped with a dual scale, this instrument measures on two scales: parts per thousand (%) and specific gravity (D20/20), with a range from 0 to 100 and 1.000 to 1.070, respectively.

Designed for aquariums and marine monitoring, this device comes with Automatic Temperature Compensation so you can simply take some sample solution and drop the liquid into the sample well fornstraightwaway testing and reading. The instrument ships with a hard case, dropper, screwdriver and cleaning cloth so you have everything you need right out of the box.

This device makes the perfect replacement to your poor quality refractometer. It offers easy viewing and reading of values and will only need a couple of drops of aquarium water to let you know the exact level of salinity.

This ensures that your pets are safe in your aquarium and that the water they are swimming in has the exact level of salinity they need to survive and thrive in their typical marine environment. Calibrating can be done by testing distilled water and using the supplied screwdriver to set to Zero. The stainless steel screw for calibration ensures years of use with its resistance to corrosion and chipping. The all-metal head and metal ring ensure a sturdy design.

 

Pros

The Solutions SSA0010 is compact in size and a user-friendly portable refractometer that you can rely on with confidence. This instrument comes in handy when you want to quantify, note and regulate the concentration of the salt water. Moreover, it is also useful to use it in aquariums and for marine applications.

This device presents the ATC function that ensures keen readings. The Agriculture Solutions SSA0010 calculates the exact salinity of the water within seconds.

The material used for manufacturing this model is aircraft aluminum which makes the product a winner when it comes to durability. The package in which you receive this item includes a complete case, a calibration screwdriver and a plastic pipette.

 

Cons

The only significant downside in the case of the Agriculture Solutions SSA0010, according to the most reliable customer reviews is that it does not feature the most professional viewfinder options available at the moment. Also, when using this refractometer, you should go for salinity calibration fluids as it will deliver more accurate results this way.

 

 

ETvalley Beer Wort and Wine

 

The ETvalley Beer Wort and Wine model is definitely the best budget refractometer thanks to its affordable price. However, it does not scrimp on top notch features. It comes with a dual scale so you can read whichever is suitable to your specific needs.

Made with an aircraft-quality lightweight aluminum body, this is a durable device that can withstand chipping and corrosion to provide years of service. It also comes with Automatic Temperature Compensation (ATC) feature to enable you to do direct readings without having to bring the sample solution to room temperature first, which saves you time and effort while still ensuring precise measurements.

Furthermore, this model is the best honey refractometer, proving to be highly useful for beekeeping where it is necessary to measure the amount of water in the honey that is produced. The non-slip rubber handle works for easy holding in the hand.

The premium optical lens is supplemented with a rubber eye guard to ensure easy viewing through the lens. Easier to use than a hydrometer, this device proves to be more accurate for the measurement of sugars. After use, the device stores easily in its own convenient carrying case. This tool also comes with everything else you need for successful measuring right out of the package: Pipette; Mini screwdriver for calibration; Cleaning cloth; and instruction manual.

 

Pros

The Beer Wort and Wine refractometer from ETvalley measures an accurate Brix (between 0 and 32%) and the specific gravity values (between 1.000 to 1.120) with the help of its ATC function.

The refractometer is easy to carry around due to its lightweight and compact design. It features a rubber grip that gives you a solid hold while being used. Also, the optical lenses of the refractometer are protected by the rubber eye guard.

You can measure the sugar in various kinds of juices and fruits with the help of the ETvalley Beer Wort and Wine refractometer. This device is highly recommended for home brewing and it can also be used to track the gravity of the wort often.

Its setup functions and the calibration testing could not be easier to handle.

 

Cons

The only serious downside in the case of the ETvalley Beer Wort and Wine refractometer is that it cannot easily measure sugar in some thick fluids such as honey. Apart from that, it works well in the case of other liquids.

 

 

 Brew Tapper Dual Scale Refractometer with ATC

 

By its name alone, you’ll know that the Brew Tapper BT-DS-REFRACT is inarguably the best refractometer for brewing. It comes with its own plastic case for problem-free storage and protection for the sensitive measuring components while facilitating effortless transport and carrying.

The included calibration screwdriver facilitates periodic calibration to ensure consistently accurate measurements every time. The 3ml pipette enables easy taking of sample solution and dropping onto the sample plate. The lens cleaning cloth ensures that the eyepiece and cover are clean after use. Made of aluminum, this refractometer is built to withstand chipping and corrosion for years of reliable service.

Use this handy device to measure the specific gravity before fermentation if you are a homebrewer. It enables you to determine the amount of fermentable sugars that can be potentially converted to alcohol so you can maintain the quality of your brew.

This device lets you take control of your brewing process with your own quality control assurance testing. You can make your own homemade beverages by upgrading your trusty old hydrometer with this precise instrument, which ensures that homemade wines, beer, fruit juices and your other homemade beverages maintain your preferred quality at all times. With its Automatic Temperature Compensation feature, the device can account for ambient temperature changes on its own so you won’t need to bring the solution to room temperature first prior to testing, saving you time and effort.

 

Pros

The Brew Tapper REFRACT is a reliable dual scale refractometer that you can use at home. With this device, the specific gravity and the brix can be measured quite accurately.

This item represents a solid replacement to the hydrometer used for making fruit juices, wine and beer at home. It can measure a brix ranging from 0 to 32% and a specific gravity ranging from 1.000 to 1.130.

The Brew Tapper BT-DS-REFRACT consists of a plastic case, a calibration screwdriver, a 3ml pipette and a cleaning cloth for the lenses in the package. The refractometer weighs only 5.6 ounces which makes is highly portable.

The core material used for manufacturing this refractometer is aircraft aluminum, which makes it sturdy and durable. Accurate results can be seen in a timely fashion, and this product is significantly easier to use compared to others.

 

Cons

The only drawback that has been confirmed by the customers in the case of the Brew Tapper REFRACT refers to the way in which you can focus its units, which might be a time-consuming process at times.

 

 

Portable Salinity Refractometer 0-28% Brix Refractometer 0-32% with ATC

 

One of the features talked about concerning this US-made product is its focusable lens, which users find to come in handy for minute optic adjustments to increase the clarity of the display. Since the markers tend to be fairly condensed on a refractometer, the precision of your own reading can have an effect on overall accuracy, so good clarity is an important thing to have in such a tool.

It’s Brix scale goes from 0 to 32%, 0 being the distilled water you’ll be using to make the initial adjustment while 30 will be enough to know that the juniper berry juice you’re looking at is concentrated enough to sign in a contest.

For specific gravity, measurements range between 1000 and 1120, which is all you’ll ever need for testing unfermented wort.

It also offers the usual convenience feature of automatic temperature adjustment, and it comes in a hard box for proper storage.  

 

Pros

You can get the display to be clearer for easy reading, due to the focusable lens the device comes equipped with.

The Brix scale goes from 0 to 32%, offering you the possibility to calibrate your tool with as much accuracy as possible.

The Specific Gravity scale goes from 1000 to 1120, which is enough for testing unfermented wort with maximum accuracy.

The hard box it is delivered in allows you to have it stored away when not in use, without the risk of having it damaged by accident.

The automatic temperature adjustment means that you will not have to worry about calibrating the item except on particular occasions.

 

Cons

Even if you can use the focus adjustment feature, you might still not be able to read the information on the display if your eyesight is impaired, some reviewers say.

 

 

Bibliography:

1) How a Refractometer Works

2) What is a refractometer and what is it used for?

3) When would you use a refractometer?

4) What is the principle of refractometer?