Coffee scales have been a staple in the barista community for decades now. Whether at a coffee shop or home brewing your coffee, these simple devices help provide accurate measurements that can help get you the perfect cup every time!
But if you're looking to upgrade your current coffee scale, or just start trying out new roasting methods, take a look at this comprehensive buying guide for some of the best coffee scales on the market today.
6 Best Coffee Scales
- Best Overall: 1. ERAVSOW Coffee Scale with Timer
- Best for Pour-Over Coffee: 2. Hario V60 Drip Coffee Scale and Timer
- Best on a Budget: 3. Apexstone Coffee Scale
- Best for Espresso: 4. MAXUS Espresso Scale with Timer
- Best for Versatility: 5. KitchenTour Coffee Scale with Timer
- Best for Precision: 6. Brewista Smart Coffee Scale
1. ERAVSOW Coffee Scale with Timer
What We Love
- High precision G-sensor load sensors provide you with accurate measurements
- Built-in timer for precise brewing
- Large and backlit LCD screen for easy reading
- Unique stainless steel tray and removable silicone mat for brewing coffee
- Auto power off after idle for 5 minutes
What to Keep in Mind
- The scale may have a somewhat cheap look
- Requires two AAA batteries, which are included
The ERAVSOW Coffee Scale with Timer is a reliable companion for any coffee lover. It's designed to provide accurate measurements and a convenient brewing experience. The scale's unique stainless steel tray and removable silicone mat make it a practical choice for brewing coffee. Despite its somewhat cheap look, it's a high-performing scale that offers great value for its price. Plus, with a built-in timer and auto power-off feature, it's designed to make your coffee brewing process as smooth as possible.
Customer Reviews (source: Amazon)
- The display is clear and easy to read from all angles, even with larger bowls. The scale features a rechargeable battery and provides accurate, quick measurements. However, it's not waterproof, so care is needed when cleaning. The on/off switch is conveniently located and easy to use.
- This scale performs well with almost no delay in measurement, a significant improvement over other brands. It has a clean, attractive digital display.
2. Hario V60 Drip Coffee Scale and Timer
What We Love
- High precision measurements in 0.1 gram increments
- Built-in timer for perfect bloom times and pours
- Auto-off feature after 5 minutes (not activated when the timer is in use)
- Slim design that fits comfortably in your kitchen
- Updated features for improved user experience
What to Keep in Mind
- The scale only measures in grams
- The response time can be slow
- The scale doesn’t start to weigh until 2 grams are added
The Hario V60 Drip Coffee Scale and Timer is a must-have for coffee enthusiasts. It's designed with precision in mind, offering measurements in 0.1 gram increments for the highest accuracy. The built-in timer ensures perfect bloom times and pours every time.
Despite its slim design, it comfortably fits a server while maintaining a small footprint in your kitchen. With its updated features and improved user experience, it's a great addition to any coffee lover's kitchen.
Customer Reviews (source: Amazon)
- This scale is affordable, easy to use, and lightweight, making it perfect for coffee brewing. The timer feature is particularly useful, and overall, it delivers excellent performance.
- The Hario V60 Drip Coffee Scale and Timer has significantly improved the user's Chemex coffee brewing experience. It facilitates accurate weighing and timing, resulting in perfect coffee every time.
3. Apexstone Coffee Scale
What We Love
- High precision sensors for accurate measurements
- Clear LCD screen with blue backlight for easy reading
- Unique built-in timer for consistent brewing
- Safe silicone mat for heat and liquid spillage protection
What to Keep in Mind
- Requires batteries, which are included
- The scale may not be as durable as some other models
The Apexstone Espresso Scale with Timer is a small but mighty tool for any coffee enthusiast. It's designed to provide accurate measurements and a consistent brewing experience.
The scale's unique built-in timer and clear LCD screen make it a practical choice for brewing espresso or pour-over coffee. The included silicone mat protects the scale from heat and liquid spillage, ensuring it stays clean and functional.
If you're looking for a reliable, affordable, and user-friendly coffee scale, the Apexstone Espresso Scale with Timer is a great choice.
Customer Reviews (source: Amazon)
- This scale offers great value for money. While there may be minor issues like the rubber mat not fitting perfectly and occasional inconsistencies, it generally does the job well.
- As an award-winning barista, the user finds this scale accurate, stable, and reliable. Despite having used much more expensive scales, this one stands out for its trustworthy readings, making it the go-to choice for travel.
4. MAXUS Espresso Scale with Timer
What We Love
- High precision sensors for accurate measurements
- Fast and instant display with a compact design
- Built-in independent timer for precise brewing
- Detachable protective cover that doubles as a tray
- Accurate and reliable reading with a backlit LCD display
What to Keep in Mind
- The scale only measures in grams and ounces
- Requires batteries, which are included
- The scale may not be as durable as some other models
The MAXUS Espresso Scale with Timer is a small and handy barista scale that's perfect for any coffee enthusiast. It's designed to provide accurate measurements and a consistent brewing experience.
The scale's built-in independent timer and fast display make it a practical choice for brewing espresso or pour-over coffee.
The detachable protective cover that doubles as a tray is a thoughtful addition, making it even more convenient to use.
Despite its compact size, it delivers reliable readings and is easy to clean, making it a great addition to any coffee lover's kitchen.
Customer Reviews (source: Amazon)
- Appreciated for its speed, consistency, and accuracy in weighing coffee beans and tracking pour-over brews. Its size is convenient, accommodating various mugs or small carafes, yet compact enough to fit on an espresso machine.
- As an espresso enthusiast, the user finds this scale accurate and cost-effective. However, they encountered an issue with the simultaneous timer function, which they resolved by using their phone's timer.
5. KitchenTour Coffee Scale with Timer
What We Love
- High precision sensors for accurate measurements
- Multi-functional scale with a built-in timer
- Superior quality material for durability and easy cleaning
- Unit conversion for weighing solids, liquids, and powders
- Back-lit reverse LCD display for quick and easy reading
What to Keep in Mind
- Requires batteries, which are included
- The scale may not be as durable as some other models
The KitchenTour Coffee Scale with Timer is a high precision scale designed for coffee enthusiasts. It's not just a scale, but also a timer that ensures the consistency of each cup of coffee.
The scale is made from superior quality material, making it durable and easy to clean. It supports different units of measurement, allowing you to weigh solids, liquids, and powders. The back-lit reverse LCD display makes weighing quick and easy.
This scale is a great addition to any kitchen, perfect for those who love cooking and drinking coffee.
Customer Reviews (source: Amazon)
- This scale to offer great value for its price. It's easy to use, has all the necessary features, and has been working reliably for about six months. It's an excellent choice for entry to mid-level coffee enthusiasts.
- This scale is perfect for pour-over coffee recipes due to its size. It offers accurate and quick measurements, and the large display numbers are easy to read even without reading glasses.
6. Brewista Smart Coffee Scale
What We Love
- High precision: Brewista Smart Scale II offers accurate measurements down to 0.1 grams, ensuring you get the perfect brew every time.
- User-friendly: This scale is easy to use with a water-resistant coating, making it a practical choice for any coffee enthusiast.
- Multiple modes: With 6 user modes, 5 for espresso and 1 for manual, it caters to a variety of brewing preferences.
- Rechargeable: The USB rechargeable battery is a convenient feature that saves you from the hassle of constantly replacing batteries.
What to Keep in Mind
- Manual instruction: It's important to follow the instruction in the manual to ensure the auto modes function correctly.
- Size: While the scale has a 2000 gram (70 oz) capacity, its compact size might not be suitable for larger brewing setups.
The Brewista Smart Scale II is more than just a coffee scale. It's a tool designed to help you perfect your coffee brewing process. Whether you're a seasoned barista or a coffee enthusiast brewing from the comfort of your home, this scale offers precision, convenience, and versatility.
With its water-resistant coating and rechargeable USB battery, it's designed to withstand the rigors of daily use. The scale also comes with a protective cover/tray and a silicone pad for added resistance against water and temperature changes.
Brewista, a brand known for its collaboration with world-champion baristas and Q Grade certified coffee experts, ensures that this scale is a reliable addition to your coffee brewing equipment.
Customer Reviews (source: Amazon)
- The scale functions well and has nice features like a thick rubber pad and USB recharging. However, it didn't offer the premium look and feel expected for its price point, leading to a decision to return it.
- This scale has been reliable and effective, assisting in making accurate coffee shots daily. Highly recommended.
Product Comparison: Overview
ERAVSOW Coffee Scale with Timer
- High precision G-sensor load sensors for accurate measurements
- Large and backlit LCD screen
- Stainless steel tray and removable silicone pad
- Auto power off after idle for 5 minutes
- Purchase risk guarantee
- Search volume: < 50 searches/month
Hario V60 Drip Coffee Scale and Timer
- Measures in 0.1 gram increments for high precision
- Built-in timer for accurate brew recipes
- Slim design for easy storage
- Updated features for improved performance
Apexstone Coffee Scale with Timer
- High precision sensors for accurate measurements
- Clear readable display with LCD screen
- Unique built-in timer for consistent brewing
- Safe silicone mat for protection
- 100% satisfactory warranty
MAXUS Espresso Scale with Timer
- Precision barista scale with timer
- Fast and instant display
- Built-in independent timer
- Grams and ounces scale
- Accurate and reliable reading
KitchenTour Coffee Scale with Timer
- Precise measurement with a wide range
- Multi-functional coffee and food scale
- Superior quality material for durability
- Unit conversion for various measurements
- A great addition for any kitchen
Brewista Smart Scale II
- High precision measurements down to 0.1 grams
- Easy-to-use coffee scale with a water-resistant coating
- Offers 6 user modes – 5 for espresso and 1 for manual
- USB rechargeable battery
- Protective coverings for water and temperature change resistance
How We Have Chosen the Top Six Coffee Scales
Choosing the perfect coffee scale can seem overwhelming given the plethora of options available. But rest assured, we're here to simplify this task for you. Our team of experts has delved deep into the world of coffee scales, conducting extensive research and considering user feedback to bring you the best options on the market.
We understand that the needs of coffee enthusiasts vary. Some may seek a scale packed with advanced features, while others might prefer a more straightforward, budget-friendly model. Regardless of your preference, we've got you covered.
Our goal is to provide you with expert insights into these coffee scales, even if we don't have personal experiences with each product. We've evaluated their performance, durability, and ease of use based on customer reviews from various platforms, including Amazon. Furthermore, we've compared these scales against their competitors to help you find the perfect match for your coffee brewing needs.
Trust in our professional, tested, and proven recommendations. We've chosen only the best for you, ensuring that your investment in a coffee scale is worth every penny.
Different Features in Different Scales
There are a lot of different features that can be found in coffee scales. This makes it hard to choose the right one for your needs. This article will discuss some of the different features available in different coffee scales and how they can benefit you.
First, let's take a look at the size of the scale. Some scales have smaller sizes that fit on a countertop, while others have larger sizes that can be placed on a stand. When searching for your perfect scale, you'll want to consider what you'll be weighing on it.
Next, we need to think about what kind of scale we want. There are digital scales, which measure weight in pounds or kilograms, and balance scales, which use a counterweight to keep the balance between two weights accurate.
Types of Coffee Scales
There are a couple of different types of coffee scales that can be used to measure the weight or volume of your coffee. They can be separated into two main categories, mechanical and electronic.
Electronic Coffee Scales
These scales use sensors to take your weight or volume measurements. They are usually easier to use than mechanical ones but may not be as accurate.
Mechanical Coffee Scales
These scales use a set of weights that you have to place on the scale to get an accurate reading. This type of scale is usually more accurate than electronic ones, but they can be more difficult to use.
What to Look For Before Buying a Coffee Scale?
Size
Finding the appropriate size scale for coffee will be determined by the brew method you prefer to use.
If, for instance, you only pour-over coffee, you'll need an appropriate scale that will fit the dimensions of your pour-over device.
If you are brewing espresso using a smaller scale, a smaller one would be the best choice to accommodate the scale in the drip tray while you make off the shot of espresso.
Precision
One of the most important things to consider while looking for a coffee scale is its accuracy. A good scale must be able to accurately measure accurately, so stay clear of scales that show measurements that are less than one gram.
Choose a coffee scale that can determine weight up to 0.1 grams if you want the best results from your brew.
Battery Life
If you consume coffee often and therefore makes many cups of coffee, then you might think about an instrument that has a rechargeable battery or that can be connected to an outlet.
If you are a homebrewer, on occasion, the battery's lifespan may not be as crucial, and an instrument with rechargeable batteries is probably a great choice.
Tare Function
Whatever method you choose to brew with the tare button is an essential element to look for on the coffee scale. Many brewing methods require that you place your brewing equipment in front of the scale to start.
Having the tare button allows users to set the weight to zero and to accurately count the quantity of water or grounds in the brewing device.
Frequently Asked Questions about Coffee Scales
What is the best way to use a scale for coffee?
If you want to use a scale for coffee, pour-over use an affixed filter onto the scale, then press the tare button and begin adding your preferred amount of grounds into the filter. Then, you place the filter (with the coffee grounds in it) inside the vessel you are using to brew and press the tare button next time and continue to add water in the same manner as you would brew coffee, watching the weight of the display until you reach your desired ratio of water to coffee.
To make espresso, press the tare switch after placing the portafilter onto the scale. Then, add the ground coffee directly into the portafilter until it is at the desired weight. Set the scale in the tray for drips (if the capacity is sufficient), and then put your cup on the top over the counter. Hit the tare button once more, take the espresso shot, and observe the results.
What is the best way to use a digital coffee scale for brewing espresso?
If you want to use a digital coffee scale to brew espresso, place the portafilter on the digital coffee scale and press the tare button to zero it. Then, add the ground coffee directly into the portafilter until it reaches the desired weight. Set the scale in the drip tray for any potential drips and place your cup on top of it. Remember to press the tare button again to reset the weight, pull the espresso shot, and monitor the results.
Do you require an appropriate scale for pour-over coffee?
No rule of thumb demands you to use a scale to create pour-over espresso. Many people employ a coffee scoop and simply guess the water needed for their coffee. But having a scale can help you elevate your coffee to higher levels.
A scale allows you to experiment with various ratios of coffee to water and discover the one most compatible with your coffee preferences. It also guarantees you a consistent cup of coffee rather than figuring out how much coffee and water you should mix each time.
Do kitchen scales from the regular range can be used to make coffee?
It's feasible to use a normal kitchen scale to make coffee. However, a few factors must be considered to ensure it can be effective for coffee.
First, you must ensure that the scale isn't equipped with an auto-off function which will be activated when it is the scale is being used. This is a concern when you intend to brew pour-over coffee.
If the scale shuts off while you're still making the coffee, you'll be unable to keep your measurements. Another thing to consider is an alarm clock. There are some; however, it could be beneficial to purchase one specifically designed for coffee as it has the necessary features you require.
What is the best way to clean up a scale on a coffee?
Cleaning the coffee scale will depend on the scale you've got. Most of the time, scales made for coffee aren't impervious to water. Therefore, you should not immerse them in water to avoid permanent damage. Most coffee scales can be handled well with a simple wipe of their surfaces after every use.
Some scales for coffee come with the option of removing a silicone mat which helps protect the surfaces of the scale. The mats can be removed and cleaned separately.
What is the difference between Brewista Smart scale II and Timemore black mirror?
The Brewista Smart coffee Scale II and the Timemore Black Mirror are both popular coffee scales with distinct features. The Smart Scale II boasts a sleek design, water-resistant coating, rechargeable battery, and multiple user modes, making it suitable for precise brewing and durability.
On the other hand, the Black Mirror stands out with its minimalist design, premium build quality, and built-in timer, although it may not offer the same range of user modes. Pricing varies, with the Smart Scale II leaning towards the higher end and the Black Mirror in the mid-range. Ultimately, choosing between the two depends on individual preferences and brewing requirements.
How precise should a coffee scale be?
The more precise a coffee scale is, the better your coffee will taste. A difference of one gram can make a noticeable difference in the flavor and balance of your cup of coffee.
Most home brewers don't need a scale calibrated to the nearest thousandth of a gram. A good accurate scale within 0.1 grams should be sufficient for most home brewers.
Do I need an expensive coffee scale?
Not really. You can get a decent kitchen scale for less than $30.
Brewing coffee is all about ratios; you can measure those ratios accurately with a kitchen scale. For example, if you're using 18 grams of coffee for every 250 grams of water, you can use the scale to measure both the coffee and the water, and then it's just a matter of pouring them in the correct proportions.
A kitchen scale will also come in handy for other tasks like measuring ingredients for baking or cooking. So overall, it's worth investing in one!
Do baristas use scales?
Many baristas use scales to measure the correct amount of coffee beans they need for a beverage. This helps to ensure that each cup tastes the same. Additionally, a scale can help ensure that the barista is not wasting coffee beans.
Which Coffee Scale is Best for You?
Choosing the perfect coffee scale can seem overwhelming given the plethora of options available. But rest assured, we're here to simplify this task for you. Our team of experts has delved deep into the world of coffee scales, conducting extensive research and considering user feedback to bring you the best options on the market.
We understand that the needs of coffee enthusiasts vary. Some may seek a scale packed with advanced features, while others might prefer a more straightforward, budget-friendly model. Regardless of your preference, we've got you covered.
Our goal is to provide you with expert insights into these coffee scales, even if we don't have personal experiences with each product. We've evaluated their performance, durability, and ease of use based on customer reviews from various platforms, including Amazon. Furthermore, we've compared these scales against their competitors to help you find the perfect match for your coffee brewing needs.
Trust in our professional, tested, and proven recommendations. We've chosen only the best for you, ensuring that your investment in a coffee scale is worth every penny.
Items Reviewed:
- Best Overall: 1. ERAVSOW Coffee Scale with Timer
- Best on a Budget: 3. Apexstone Coffee Scale
- Best for Pour-Over Coffee: 2. Hario V60 Drip Coffee Scale and Timer
- Best for Espresso: 4. MAXUS Espresso Scale with Timer
- Best for Versatility: 5. KitchenTour Coffee Scale with Timer
- Best for Precision: 6. Brewista Smart Coffee Scale
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Please note that the reviews on this page have been edited for readability and clarity while maintaining the essence of the original content.