The Top-Rated Digital Coffee Scales
In my experience, having explored the vast realm of coffee brewing, I've interacted with various scales designed specifically for espresso and pour-over coffee. Throughout this guide, you'll find a curated selection of the finest options available.
Let's be clear: coffee brewing doesn't necessarily require you to opt for the most expensive gear. Each scale discussed in this article will serve your needs admirably.
Yet, it's crucial to remember when it comes to coffee, precision is paramount.
The journey from average to exceptional brews consistently necessitates a reliable scale. Without it, you're essentially leaving your results to chance. So, a scale is a must-have tool in your coffee-making arsenal to eliminate guesswork and elevate your brewing skills.
1. The TIMEMORE BLACK MIRROR: The Single Sensor Model
Meet the Black Mirror Single-Sensor Scale, a quintessential product from the renowned Chinese brand - Timemore. This scale has become integral to my daily routine due to its remarkable features and practicality.
With a design that subtly mirrors the aesthetics of the Acaia scales, the Black Mirror scale takes a step further by merging affordability with functionality. Unlike the typically extravagant scales with an array of add-ons, the Black Mirror scale keeps it simple yet effective. It does away with complex apps and Bluetooth connections. Instead, it focuses on providing a straightforward user experience with a built-in timer and scale - everything you truly need in a coffee scale.
My experience with the Black Mirror scale over the past few years has been impressive. It has consistently demonstrated robust performance, coupled with an elegant look that adds a touch of sophistication to any countertop.
The scale's size is one of its most commendable features, striking a perfect balance between the compact Lunar and the larger Pearl. This makes it versatile enough for various coffee brewing methods, including pour-over and espresso.
Moreover, the scale supports USB-C charging, a highly convenient feature that eliminates the need for constant battery replacements.
The Black Mirror scale also offers a more advanced model equipped with two sensors and a drip stand. However, for most coffee enthusiasts, the base model will suffice, providing all essential features without overwhelming complexity.
On the whole, the Black Mirror scale impresses with its:
- Built-in timer for precise brewing
- Convenient USB C charging
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Optimum size for varied brewing methods
The only area that leaves some room for improvement is the display's touch responsiveness, which could be slightly quicker.
2: The Compact and Convenient Espresso Scales by SEARCHPEAN: TINY1 & TINY2
The TINY1 and TINY2 espresso scales, by SEARCHPEAN, known for their compactness and convenience have gained popularity among coffee enthusiasts. The Timemore Nano scale features user design elements such as buttons and a clear display making it easy to use.
One notable aspect of this scale is its lasting battery life. It can be conveniently charged through a USB-C connection. It retains its charge for weeks ensuring that it's always ready for use. Additionally the scale includes an on/off toggle switch for effortless operation.
Although the scale's small size makes it ideal for making espresso it can also be adapted for pour over coffee brewing. However if you use a carafe the compact size may pose some visibility challenges with the display.
Some users may have concerns about the digits on the display. It's worth mentioning that the latest model, Tiny 2s has addressed this issue by adopting all digits. Aside from a robust rubber mat there are no significant differences between Tiny1 and Tiny2, in terms of everyday usability.
With its size, affordable price and built-in battery the TIMEMORE BLACK MIRROR NANO is a choice for espresso enthusiasts on a budget who want a practical and cost effective scale. Its attractive features and reasonable price make it likely to become an option in homes and coffee shops in the coming years.
Pros:
- Compact Size; The scale's small footprint is its selling point making it perfect for kitchens where space's limited.
- Excellent Value; It offers great affordability compared to other espresso scales like the Acaia Lunar without sacrificing functionality.
- Built in Battery; It charges conveniently via USB C and has a long lasting battery life that can be relied upon for regular use.
Cons:
- Display Aesthetics; Some users may not prefer the digits displayed on the screen.
- Auto timer; There might be some issues when using Preinfusion
3: TIMEMORE BLACK MIRROR NANO - A Tiny Powerhouse for Espresso Lovers
This is an espresso powerhouse in a package. This scaled down version of Timemores Black Mirror Scale has earned itself a reputation within the coffee community. With its futuristic design the NANO version maintains the aesthetic, as its predecessor while introducing some exciting new features that enhance your coffee making experience.
This compact espresso scale showcases a design with a uniquely angled display. This innovative feature ensures effortless monitoring of the weight whether you place the scale on an espresso tray or use it for pour over brewing.
The TIMEMORE BLACK MIRROR NANO is a tool that caters to any type of coffee brewing methods. However at its core it excels in producing top notch espresso. Its software that it runs on has been meticulously optimized for espresso production offering ease and precision throughout your brewing process.
Among its features is an auto timer that activates as soon as it detects the initial drips from the espresso. Additionally it includes a flow rate measurement mode to enhance your control over the brewing process.
Although these features are not my choice I understand that many people will find them extremely useful.
If you're looking for an espresso scale that fits perfectly on your kitchen counter and has a lasting battery (plus the added convenience of USB C charging) the TIMEMORE BLACK MIRROR NANO is definitely worth considering. You can check out my review of the Nano version:
Pros:
- The design is eye-catching and unique.
- Its compact size allows it to fit into any espresso machine drip tray while the angled display ensures it's also suitable for pour over brewing.
- The USB C charging feature is convenient.
Cons:
- It might take some time to get used to the side facing buttons as they can be a bit tricky to operate.
4: WEIGHTMAN ESPRESSO SCALE
The Weightman Espresso Scale has quietly gained a dedicated following among discerning coffee enthusiasts who appreciate its unique features and affordable price.
Although this scale might be slightly too compact for pour-over, it's perfect for espresso measurements. And should you find yourself away from home, perhaps savoring the outdoors on holiday, this scale can still come to your rescue for other types of brewing.
It's rather challenging to find a scale that offers a built-in timer and can fit snugly on the drip tray of a compact home espresso machine. The Weightman Espresso Scale checks these boxes while maintaining affordability.
This scale is swift, responsive, and reliable in terms of performance. To get your shot timing right, a neat trick is to end your shot roughly 2 grams shy of your target weight.
The scale offers either gram or ounce measurements and features an LCD backlit display, ensuring easy reading even in low-light conditions.
Operating on 2x AAA batteries, the scale is energy-efficient, with the batteries lasting impressively long.
The scale includes a plastic cover for portability for those who love their coffee on the move. While it might not be fully waterproof, it can handle minor splashes. My unit has been with me for over a year, and it's still performing admirably.
Pros
- Highly affordable
- Compact size, perfect for espresso machines like the Gaggia Classic or Breville Bambino
- Large, easy-to-read display
Cons
- Build quality may feel less robust, but considering its price point, this is expected.
5: HARIO DRIP COFFEE SCALE
Hario, a renowned brand well-known for its V60 brewer, has also made its mark in coffee scales.
The Hario Drip Coffee Scale, with its minimalist function and design, offers extreme precision. It can measure up to an accuracy of 0.1g, with only a slight margin of error of +/- 0.2g.
For those who appreciate a keen sense of time, this scale has a built-in timer located conveniently on the side. Its power source is straightforward- just a couple of AAA batteries. It smartly switches off after 5 minutes of inactivity to maximize battery life.
While the Hario Drip Coffee Scale has a lot going for it, there are a few points to be mindful of. First, it lacks waterproofing, which can be a bit of a concern regarding pour-over brewing. Regular exposure to water may potentially lead to malfunctions.
Additionally, its response time can lag a bit when you're adding beans. This means you'll have to take it slow while adding your grounds to prevent overshooting your desired coffee amount.
Weighing up the pros and cons:
Pros
- Equipped with a built-in timer
- Boasts a sleek, minimalist design
- Offers excellent precision
Cons
- Lacks waterproofing
- May respond slowly when adding beans
- It could be considered pricey for its offering
6: HUISMART DIGITAL SCALE
The HuiSmart Digital Scale is an economical yet robust choice for a coffee scale. This scale has found favor among budding coffee connoisseurs exploring the world of pour-over brewing but hesitant to splurge on high-end branded models.
This scale delivers all the basic functionalities you'd anticipate from a coffee scale but at a fraction of the cost of the top-tier models. One of its standout features is the built-in timer, an essential tool for perfect pour-over brewing. In addition, it provides measurements in multiple units - grams, ounces, or pounds, offering flexibility based on your preferred unit of measurement.
Its size is another advantage, as it's large enough to double as a food scale. The inclusion of a backlit display is a thoughtful touch, making the scale easy to read during those early, dark mornings.
While it may not win any design awards, its simplicity and functionality more than makeup for it. The scale operates on two AAA batteries, ensuring portability around the kitchen. It smartly incorporates an auto-off function to conserve battery life and a low battery indicator alerting you to replace the batteries in time.
The HuiSmart Digital Scale also comes with a silicone mat, an excellent addition to shielding the scale from accidental spills or potential causes of damage. The mat is removable, making for convenient cleaning further enhancing ease of use.
Pros:
- Built-in timer for precision brewing
- Silicone mat ensuring prolonged durability and spill protection
- Backlit display for better visibility in low light
- Attractively priced
Cons:
- The display size might be a bit small for some
- Reliance on battery power, albeit offering mobility.
7: BREWISTA SMART COFFEE SCALE II
Regarded as a favorite among coffee enthusiasts, the Brewista digital coffee scale brings precision and convenience to your morning espresso routine. Its petite size is charming and practical, specifically designed to cater to espresso servings.
Nevertheless, the compact design presents a minor challenge when larger items, such as a Chemex carafe, are placed on it, making the display difficult to read.
One of the standout features of this scale is its rechargeable battery, a much-appreciated asset in our eco-conscious world. The thought of constantly purchasing and disposing of batteries can seem somewhat old-fashioned in our technologically advanced era.
However, a minor niggle is that the Brewista uses a micro-USB for charging, which feels a bit dated compared to the more modern and widely adopted C-type USB ports.
In terms of performance, this scale impresses with its precision and swift refresh rate, a key feature for any serious coffee devotee.
Yet, regarding value for money, the Brewista may not be everyone's cup of tea. While cheaper alternatives offer similar functionalities and aesthetics, at the other end of the spectrum, there are high-end scales like the Acaia offering elevated design and features. This puts the Brewista Smart Scale II in a middle-ground position.
Even so, if you're searching for a rechargeable espresso scale that delivers functionality without breaking the bank, the Brewista might just fit the bill perfectly.
Pros:
- Perfectly sized for espresso servings
- Rechargeable, offering good battery life
Cons:
- Slightly on the expensive side
- Display readability can be compromised when used with larger carafes
8: THE ACAIA PEARL - A PREMIUM COFFEE BREWING SCALE
The Acaia Pearl stands out as a luxurious coffee scale, priced considerably higher than its counterparts in this comprehensive review. Given its high durability, its popularity extends into commercial spaces, surpassing other coffee scales. The design of the Acaia Pearl parallels Apple's minimalist aesthetic, exuding a sleek and modern charm.
In terms of precision, the Acaia Pearl undoubtedly leads the pack among the scales explored in this discussion.
A key feature that differentiates this model is its power source. Unlike scales that run on batteries, the Acaia Pearl derives its power from a mini-USB charger. You may think constant charging could be a nuisance, similar to your phone or Bluetooth speaker. However, the scale's exceptional battery life ensures infrequent charging, providing a long-lasting solution that eliminates the need for battery replacement.
One unique characteristic of this scale is its Bluetooth connectivity. Contrarily, most users have reported that the various modes associated with this feature don't necessarily offer any tangible benefits.
Pros
- A high-end, barista-grade coffee scale boasting an array of features
- Aesthetically pleasing design
- Convenient charging via USB, negating the need for batteries
- Water-resistant and built to last
Cons
- Its price tag is significantly higher than those of other coffee scales
- Numerous modes which may require some time to understand fully
- Occasional bugs with Bluetooth connectivity
- The display does not show decimal points when the timer is active
9: ACAIA PEARL: THE CONNOISSEUR'S COFFEE BREWING SCALE
The Acaia Pearl is a coffee brewing scale that stands out from its competitors in terms of price. It is widely used in settings due to its durability compared to other coffee scales. Its design is sleek and minimalistic reminiscent of Apple products making it visually appealing.
What sets the Acaia Pearl apart is its precision offering accuracy when compared to scales in this comparison.
Unlike scales that rely on batteries the Acaia Pearl features a battery which provides convenience and cost savings in the long run. It can be charged using a USB port and contrary to initial impressions it doesn't require constant charging. With one charge this scale can last a period of time without worrying about frequent battery replacements.
A noteworthy feature of the Acaia Pearl is its Bluetooth connectivity.
However some users have mentioned that it may take a bit of time to grasp the usefulness of the scales modes.
Pros
- A high quality coffee scale that comes with a range of features
- Its elegant design blends seamlessly, with any environment
- No need for batteries as it can be conveniently recharged via USB
- Built to withstand water damage and ensure long lasting performance
Cons
- The price point is noticeably higher compared to coffee scales in the market
- It might require some learning to make the most out of its different modes
- A few users have reported occasional glitches in Bluetooth connectivity
- When using the timer function decimal points are not displayed on the screen
10: ACAIA LUNAR ESPRESSO SCALE: A BARISTA'S BEST FRIEND
Meet the Acaia Lunar Espresso Scale - the Pearl's sleek, black counterpart. Even though it's more compact and slender, it doesn't compromise on advanced features. Designed specifically for measuring espresso, this scale tucks neatly under your cup and portafilter, even in the most cramped spaces.
The Lunar is more than just a pretty face - it's built to endure the rough and tumble of a bustling barista's workspace. Its resistance to steam, espresso spillages, and even water makes it a reliable partner in the face of the unforeseen incidents that come with the territory.
While the Lunar's price tag is steeper than the Pearl's, it's worth it if you're an espresso enthusiast who insists on precision. If not, the Pearl is a budget-friendly alternative that still offers a range of features.
Don't just take our word for it - check out a coffee shop owner's review of the Acaia Lunar scale.
Pros:
- Compact design: Seamlessly fits on an espresso tray
- Water-resistant: Built to withstand spills and mishaps
- Feature-rich: Full of useful functions for perfect brewing
Cons:
- Pricey: It's possibly the priciest coffee scale available
- Limited for pour-overs: Its small size might not accommodate some pour-over setups.
WHAT'S THE BENEFIT OF USING A SCALE FOR COFFEE BREWING?
Precise ratios can make all the difference when it comes to brewing coffee. Some beans shine when paired with a 1:15 coffee-to-water ratio, while others may call for a different approach. The key to unlocking the full potential of your coffee lies in measuring both the beans and the water accurately.
While volume measurements such as tablespoons are common, they often fall short in precision. The only way to achieve a truly accurate measurement is by weighing the coffee beans and water. This is of utmost importance due to the variable densities among different beans and roasts. Two beans of the same Volume can have significantly different masses, making Volume a less reliable measurement.
By knowing the exact weight of your coffee and water, you can brew consistently delicious cups of coffee. This knowledge also provides the flexibility to experiment with certainty, allowing you to adjust the parameters to suit your taste.
Don't just take it from us. James Freeman, the visionary behind Blue Bottle Coffee, concurs with this sentiment. He states firmly in his book, 'The Blue Bottle Craft of Coffee,' "Volume is a less accurate way of measuring things than mass is. That’s not an opinion; it’s physics."
Freeman encourages coffee lovers to use gram scales to elevate their coffee experience. "Gram measurements are more accurate, and we think using them will improve your experience as a coffee drinker and baker—and therefore improve your life."
So, if you're serious about coffee, consider investing in a gram scale. It's not just an accessory but an essential tool in brewing an exceptional cup of coffee.
WHAT SHOULD YOU CONSIDER WHEN PURCHASING A DIGITAL COFFEE SCALE?
When you're in the market for a digital coffee scale, you should consider a few key features. First and foremost, ensure that the scale is digital. This simple feature can make a difference, especially during those early morning brews when you don't want to strain your eyes deciphering an analog scale.
Additionally, the precision of the scale is crucial. An accuracy within two decimal places is generally sufficient for everyday coffee brewing, considering that grams are a remarkably small unit of measurement.
The dimensions of the coffee scale are another aspect to bear in mind. Since its primary role is brewing coffee, you'd want a compact scale that doesn't command much counter space. Yet, it should still have a sufficiently large, flat surface that's balanced and stable, offering ample room to place your brewing equipment safely.
Moreover, given that most brewing methods necessitate placing your apparatus on the scale from the outset, having a tare button is essential. This feature allows you to reset the scale back to zero, making it easier to measure your coffee accurately. Remember, the perfect cup of coffee is about precision; a good scale can help you achieve that.
DO YOU REALLY NEED A TIMER?
A simple, accurate scale with a tare function can suffice for your basic coffee brewing needs. However, including certain additional features can significantly elevate your brewing experience and convenience.
Consider a battery-powered scale for its mobility, particularly useful if you enjoy brewing your coffee in different locations. A rechargeable model could be a better, eco-friendly choice for heavy coffee drinkers or environmental enthusiasts.
Given the close proximity of hot water during the brewing process, it's wise to opt for a water-resistant scale. This consideration becomes even more critical if your preferred brewing methods, like pour-over or French press, involve water spillage.
While not essential, a built-in timer can be a valuable addition to your brewing apparatus. It allows you to experiment with extraction times, a key factor in determining the taste of your coffee. The convenience of having a two-in-one device cannot be overstated, and it certainly beats the hassle of using your smartphone as a makeshift coffee timer.
Have you considered smart scales?
In the ever-evolving world of technology, a handful of innovative companies have introduced scales with Bluetooth connectivity, offering an intriguing spin on traditional scales. These smart scales allow users to track their brews via a user-friendly app and offer a host of other complex features.
However, it's essential to bear in mind that despite the "smart" label, many of these scales may not live up to your expectations. Users have often reported encountering bugs in the software, and the additional features don't always prove useful or appealing to the average person. Even the models produced by well-known brand Acaia aren't immune to these issues.
Certain smart scales offer unique features, such as training modules for maintaining a specific flow rate or various modes for different brewing methods. However, despite these potential benefits, it must be said that none of the smart scales on the market today have introduced any truly revolutionary features that make them a must-have item.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the advantage of using a scale that has a built in timer for brewing coffee?
Having a scale equipped with a built in timer offers precision when determining extraction times. This level of control plays a role in achieving your desired coffee taste.
How do smart scales enhance the coffee brewing process and what are they?
Smart scales represent an upgrade from traditional scales featuring Bluetooth connectivity and compatibility, with an app that allows you to keep track of your brews.They might also provide functionalities such as training modules to help maintain a flow rate and customizable settings for various brewing techniques.
I've heard about software glitches in scales. Should I be worried?
Some users have encountered software problems with scales but these issues can vary. Not all models or brands are affected in this manner. It's always wise to do some research and read reviews before making a purchase.
Are scales investing in if they don't introduce any groundbreaking features?
The value of a smart scale depends on your individual requirements and how much you value the additional features they offer. If you're interested in monitoring your brews, experimenting with brewing modes or learning how to maintain a flow rate then considering a smart scale might be worthwhile.