We Weighed Sugar, Flour, Coffee, and More to Find the Best Kitchen Scales

How We Tested Kitchen Scales

We have tested over 20 kitchen scales both in our official testing lab and in the kitchens of our experienced at-home product testers. In all of our tests we have measured things like sugar, flour, salt, coffee, and even whole turkies to determine which ones we are confident in recommending.

We Observed

• The feel of the kitchen scale: Upon unboxing each one, we marked down how light or heavy the scale is. We also paid special attention to what each one is made out of—plastic, stainless steel, etc.—and if it feels sturdy and well-made or not. Then we flipped them over to look at the bottom and if there are rubber grip feet to help keep it in place while in use. We also tried to slide them around the couter.
• How accurate it is measuring different foods: In each test we made sure to see how well the scale measures different common ingredients—in addition to pouring a large bag of sugar into a bowl on the scale and noting the measurements, we also placed pinches of salt on the scales until it read a weight, as well as seeing how accurate weighing coffee was.
• How easy or difficult it is to clean: In our lab we poured a cup of flour onto each scale, then tipped it over to see how easily it slid off. We then used damp paper towels to clean off each one, noting if certain areas or crevaces retained any sediment.
  

We Rated

• The design: Some kitchen scales have a main weight plate that weights ingredients, while others are the weight plate. Some are round while others are square and even more are rectangular. While some displays are backlit, others are not, and while some are large, others are a bit smaller. In our lab and in our real-world testing, we asked our testers to mark down what they like and don't like about the shape, weight, material, and other design characteristics of each scale.
• Each kitchen scale's performance: Despite all the bells and whistles some kitchen scales have—there are some out there that can even wirelessly charge your phone—the most important feature is how accurately the scale measures. By testing many different foods in large and small quantities, we were able to find the kitchen scales that don't require a lot of weight to start measuring and get large amounts correct, too.
• How easy it is to store: Each recipe you use may not require exact ingredient measurements, but many do—and if you're an avid coffee drinker you know the importance of accuracy. But during times when you're cooking or baking and don't need to use a kitchen scale, it should be easy to store. During each test we noted how slim the scales are, and if there are any protruding features that might make it difficult to store flat, upright, or on its side.

Other Options We Tested

• My Weigh Bakers Math Kitchen Scale: A previous version of this list named this as the best scale to use for baking because it allows you to measure items up to 17 pounds (which is more than many competitors' standard 11-pound limit) and by percentage, so breads, cakes, cookies, and other ratio-driven recipes are simplified by this scale that does the baking math for you. After testing, we found that it measures pretty accurately, has an easy-to-read backlit display, and features a helpful splash shield for keeping liquids off the mechanics. The scale was quite bulky, though, and required a fair amount of counter real estate. No batteries were included, so we had to employ the provided AC adapter, which tied the bulky scale to an outlet, limiting where it could be used. We felt it is very flimsy and not durable whatsoever. For its size, it weighed next to nothing.

What to Look for in Kitchen Scales

Accuracy

Arguably the most important characteristic of any kitchen scale is its accuracy. If it's not taking accurate measurements, then it’s not doing its primary job. Even though a milligram of difference might not make a huge impact when you’re measuring flour or coffee grounds, if the scale is off by even a gram, this can start to affect whatever it is that you’re making. While some scales offer recalibration options, this is not common, and oftentimes the recalibration is not totally accurate. In order to preserve the accuracy of your scale, make sure not to put any items on the scale that are heavier than what it can measure, and always replace the battery if you notice that measurements start to become inconsistent. Some scales come with warranties, which is great on the off-chance that you find that your scale starts to display inaccurate readings. Keep in mind that a lot of warranties will not cover you if the cause of the broken scale is due to overloading it with an extremely heavy item.

Units of Measurement

Not all scales have the same units of measurement, so look for a scale that can measure wet and dry ingredients in both metric and imperial units. Wet ingredients have different densities than dry, creating the need for fluid ounces and milliliters readings. It’s worth noting that some scales will translate a heavier weight to "2 pounds, 4 ounces" versus "36 ounces," for example. In the same vein of units of measurement, most scales commonly weigh in increments of 1 gram or 0.05 ounces. Anything with increments larger than this can result in inaccurate readings.

Weight Capacity

Most kitchen scales can support anywhere from 6 pounds to 12 pounds, depending on the model that you choose. If you will be weighing lots of dry ingredients for large baking projects, make sure that the scale you’re using can support the weight. If you need to measure larger cuts of proteins that might not sit easily on a countertop scale, opt for a hanging scale to ensure the accurate weight of these products. Similarly, if you’re going to be measuring extremely small quantities of food like spices or baking ingredients, then having a pocket scale handy is a great way to grab these measurements, because measurements less than a gram do not read as accurately on a basic kitchen scale. And finally, if you are serious about coffee, consider investing specifically in a coffee scale.

Price

A new kitchen scale can run you anywhere from $10 to $60, so knowing what you’re looking for is crucial. If you’ve never owned a scale before and want to dabble with baking by measurements or portioning out your weekly meal prep, then a cheaper, more basic scale will certainly do the trick. If you’re going to be measuring large batches of food for big groups, large occasions, or more professional cooking settings, then opting for a scale with a large weight range and improved accuracy will definitely be worth the extra investment.

Types of Kitchen Scales

Digital Scale

This is the most common type of kitchen scale and will be the most useful for the average home cook. These scales typically weigh items anywhere from 0.5 ounces to a maximum of 6 to 12 pounds. They are battery-powered, can read in 0.05-ounce or 1-gram increments, offer taring capabilities, and are relatively compact and lightweight. They operate best when they are securely sitting on a flat, level countertop. Some digital scales might feature a glass platform, which may seem cool and chic, but might also be extremely fragile and prove difficult to clean and maintain. A good digital scale will also come with rubber feet on the bottom, which should prevent the scale from moving around on the counter while you’re using it.

Analog Scale

A somewhat outdated version, analog scales do not require any battery power. Instead, these classic scales have a large base and a bowl or surface on top to place the item that you are wanting to weigh. They are much larger in size and heavier than a classic digital scale, so plan to make room in your cupboard for this model. While you might find an analog model that can support more weight than a digital model, there is no real advantage to weighing items with an analog scale versus digital. They do have a fun, vintage aesthetic if you are wanting to keep it on your counter as a way to subtly decorate your kitchen.

Pocket Scale

If you are going to be measuring smaller items, like spices or coffee, it may be a good idea to look into a pocket scale. These small, lightweight tools are a great way to get a precise measurement for something that weighs less than 1 gram or 0.05 ounces. They are typically battery-powered and can read in both metric and imperial units. They are extremely compact and affordable, so even if you don’t get a ton of use out of one, it’s not a huge burden to purchase and store.

Hanging Scale

A hanging scale is another way to get an accurate reading, specifically for a large cut of protein or any item that is awkwardly shaped and may not fit on a countertop scale. Compared with a digital kitchen scale, which typically cannot support more than 12 pounds, a hanging scale can read upwards of 100 pounds (and it can also read in metric units).

Maintenance

Never load a scale over its weight capacity since this can cause the calibration to be off and even break the scale. Don’t weigh messy, wet items directly on a scale; instead, place a bowl on the scale, tare it, and begin weighing. When the scale is off, do not store it or let it sit with items on it as this can also cause great damage. While some scales have recalibration capabilities, these are often not totally accurate, so don’t rely on them. If you think your scale may be giving you inaccurate readings, it’s likely time to replace the batteries. Always keep your scale on a firm, flat surface for the most accurate readings. When the scale is off, wipe the buttons and the platform down with a hot washcloth to clean up any remaining food particles or grease. Never place a scale directly under running water to clean.

FAQs

How do you use a kitchen scale? 

Using a kitchen scale is extremely straightforward. To start, place a bowl or plate on the scale to measure your item. Next, tare the scale so that it registers a zero weight measurement. Select the unit of measurement that you want to use (e.g., grams or ounces), then add your item to the bowl or plate until you’ve reached a desired measurement. They are extremely helpful for baking because of their ability to measure ingredients precisely.

What is a kitchen scale used for? 

Kitchen scales are used to improve precision and accuracy in measured items. From measuring flour to butter to agave syrup, these scales are extremely adept at accurate readings. They can help you easily determine the weight of any given object. Almost all scales can handle measuring dry ingredients—it's with wet ingredients that you definitely need specific units of measurement. Wet ingredients, like honey or molasses, have different densities so need to measured as either fluid ounces or milliliters.

How do you calibrate a kitchen scale?

You should calibrate your kitchen scale somewhat frequently to ensure that you’re getting accurate readings. Always calibrate on a flat, level surface. Each scale is different, so always defer to the owner’s manual that comes with your scale, especially if you need to make an adjustment. You can use calibration weights or simply go get your change purse. A U.S. nickel weighs exactly five grams. If your scale is gives your nickel a different reading, check if you can calibrate the scale before replacing it.

Why Trust The Spruce Eats?

Sara Tane has written dozens of buying guides for The Spruce Eats, understanding what consumers and cooks need to consider before making a new purchase for their culinary adventures. She is a professionally trained chef, now working as a private chef and writer. Because of her traditional culinary background, she understands the importance of a kitchen scale for precise measurements. After researching different kitchen scales and their characteristics, she chose the best kitchen scales for all of your culinary and pastry needs. She also interviewed Abigail Rose, who attended the International Culinary Center and was previously the pastry chef at Fox in the Snow in Columbus, Ohio.

Carrie Honaker, who updated and tested all products included in this roundup, is a food writer who worked in restaurants throughout college, including La Madeleine in Atlanta, where she relied on accurate scale measurements for a successful morning bake. Between her experience as a restaurateur and avid home cook, she has measured thousands of pounds of sugar and flour on both analog and digital scales. Her work has appeared in many publications including Bon Appetit, Allrecipes, and Wine Enthusiast.