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You’ve decided to take your baking to the next level. No more guesstimating the ingredients – you’re ready for precision baking. To up your baking game, you’ll need a quality kitchen scale. Not just any scale will do for the serious baker; you need one that can accurately measure grams and ounces, has a high weight capacity, and is easy to clean. In this article, we’ll explore the key features to look for in a baking scale and review the top 5 kitchen scales for achieving baking perfection. With the right scale, you’ll be whipping up flawless macarons, silky custards, and picture-perfect cakes in no time. Ready to choose a scale and level up your baking skills? Read on.
Why You Need a Kitchen Scale for Baking
If you’re serious about baking, a kitchen scale is essential. Measuring by volume alone just won’t cut it for precision recipes. Here’s why you need a scale and what to look for:
- •Accuracy. For the best results, you need a scale that measures in grams for maximum precision. Look for one with at least 1-gram accuracy for small amounts, and that can weigh up to at least 5–10 kilograms in total. Digital scales tend to be the most precise.
- •Ease of use. A scale with an easy-to-read digital display, tare, and unit conversion buttons will make the process simple. Some models have extra features like a timer, alarm, or bowl-holding mechanism. For many bakers, a simple, fuss-free scale does the trick.
- •Durability. If you bake a lot, you’ll want a scale that can withstand frequent use and washing. Look for a sturdy scale with a sealed keypad and a high maximum weight capacity. Stainless steel models tend to last the longest.
- •Size. Consider how much space you have to store a scale and how large a recipe you typically make. Most home bakers do well with a mid-sized scale that can measure up to 5 kilograms. But for huge batches or bread making, a larger 10-kilogram scale may suit you better.
- • cleanup. A scale with a removable platform or bowl that’s dishwasher safe will make cleanup a breeze. If it’s not dishwasher safe, look for a scale with a smooth surface that’s easy to wipe clean after each use.
With the right kitchen scale, you’ll be whipping up perfect macarons, croissants, and other treats in no time. Happy baking!
Features to Look for in a Baking Scale
When it comes to baking, precision is key. The right kitchen scale can make or break your favorite recipe. Here are the features to look for:
Accuracy
For baking, you’ll want a scale that measures in increments of 1 gram or 1/8 ounce. Digital scales tend to be the most precise. Look for one with at least a 500-gram or 1-pound capacity for most recipes.
Easy to Read
A backlit LCD display will allow you to read the measurements, even in low light. Larger numbers, around 3/4 of an inch, are easier to see at a glance.
Tare Function
A tare button will allow you to reset the scale to zero so you can weigh multiple ingredients in the same bowl. For example, add flour, tare, add sugar, tare, and so on. This avoids having to dirty multiple bowls.
Bowl Friendly
For easy measuring into a bowl, look for a scale with a flat surface area that can hold a medium to large bowl. Some scales come with a detachable platform that can be removed for washing.
Timer
A built-in timer is a handy feature, so you don’t have to juggle a separate kitchen timer while baking. Digital scales often come with programmable timers that will count up or down.
With the right scale and a few tips for proper use, you’ll be whipping up perfect macarons, artisanal bread, and award-winning cakes in no time. Happy baking!
The 5 Best Kitchen Scales for Baking
When it comes to precision baking, a high-quality kitchen scale is essential. Here are the top 5 kitchen scales for all your baking needs:
Ozeri ZK14-S Pronto Digital Multifunction Kitchen and Food Scale
This affordable scale is perfect for basic baking tasks. It measures in 1-gram increments up to 11.24 pounds. The easy-to-read LCD display shows metric and imperial units, and the scale runs on batteries so you can use it anywhere. The slim design makes it easy to store. For under $15, this scale delivers great performance for typical home bakers.
Escali Primo Digital Scale
If you need an extremely accurate scale, the Escali Primo measures in 0.1 ounces or 1-gram increments up to 11 pounds. The backlit display is easy to read, and the scale features a removable platform for easy cleaning. An automatic shutoff conserves battery life. For under $25, this versatile scale is great for precision recipes.
OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Food Scale with Pull-Out Display
This high-end scale offers professional-level performance for home bakers. It measures in 1-gram or 0.05-ounce increments up to 11 pounds. The unique pull-out display allows you to see the readout even when using oversized bowls. The scale is stainless steel for durability and easy cleaning. Although pricey at around $50, this OXO scale is a worthwhile investment for serious bakers.
Greater Goods Digital Kitchen Scale
If you need an extra-large scale, the Greater Goods model measures up to 22 pounds in 1-gram or 0.05-ounce increments. The scale features an easy-to-read backlit display and a durable tempered glass platform. An optional nutritional facts calculator estimates the calories and nutrients in your ingredients. Priced under $30, this is a great, high-capacity scale for avid bakers.
My Weigh KD-8000 Digital Kitchen Scale
This versatile baker’s bundle includes a kitchen scale that measures up to 8 kilograms, or 17.6 pounds, in 1-gram increments, as well as a variety of accessories like a dough scraper, measuring cups, and spoons. The scale runs on an AC adapter and features a backlit display, stainless steel platform, and a built-in timer. Although a splurge at around $60, this set is ideal for home bakers who want a variety of high-quality tools.
OXO Good Grips 11-Pound Food Scale With Pull-Out Display
The OXO Good Grips 11-Pound Food Scale is an excellent choice for precision baking. This scale features an easy-to-read backlit display that pulls out, so you can clearly see the weight of your ingredients even when the scale is placed under a large mixing bowl. The scale measures in precise increments of 1/8 ounce or 1 gram to ensure you have exactly the right amount of each ingredient.
Accurate and Precise
The OXO Good Grips scale provides precise measurements down to the gram to ensure your recipes turn out perfectly. The tare button allows you to reset the scale to zero so you can measure multiple ingredients in the same bowl. The scale has a capacity of 11 pounds, so it can handle even the largest batches.
Easy to Use and Clean
This scale has an easy-to-use button interface, and the pull-out display makes it simple to read the measurements. The scale is made of stainless steel, and the weighing platform detaches for easy cleaning. The display window slides out so you can wipe it down to remove any splatters or spills. All parts are dishwasher-safe for your convenience.
Additional Features
The OXO scale includes several useful features for bakers, like optional metric units (g, kg, lbs, and oz), zeroing out the scale before adding additional ingredients, and an overload indicator to alert you if you’ve added too much weight. The scale also has a non-slip base, and its compact size means it can easily be stored in a drawer. Batteries are included, so you can start using the scale right away.
For precise measurements, easy use, and simple cleaning, the OXO Good Grips 11-Pound Food Scale is a great choice for any home baker. With all its useful features, this is a kitchen scale you’ll use every time you bake. Your recipes will turn out perfectly thanks to the exactness this scale provides. Any baker, from beginner to expert, would find this scale extremely helpful to have in their kitchen.
Etekcity Digital Kitchen Scale Multifunction Food Scale
The Etekcity Digital Kitchen Scale is an affordable, multifunctional kitchen scale perfect for all your baking needs. This scale measures accurately in grams, ounces, pounds, and milliliters, with a capacity of 11 pounds in increments of 0.05 ounces or 1 gram.
Its stainless steel platform is easy to clean, and the LCD display features a backlit screen so you can clearly read measurements. The auto-tare function allows you to measure multiple ingredients in the same bowl without having to do the math – the scale will automatically subtract the weight of the container.
This scale runs on 2 AAA batteries (included) or an AC adapter (sold separately), so you can use it anywhere in your kitchen. It has an overload indication as well as a low battery warning to let you know if there are any issues with the scale.
For precise baking, a kitchen scale like this one is essential. Measuring by volume can be inaccurate since packing densities can vary. A scale gives you an exact measurement in grams, so your recipes turn out perfectly every time.
Here are some tips for using the Etekcity kitchen scale:
- • Place the scale on a flat, stable surface away from drafts or vibrations for the most accurate readings.
- • Use the tare button to subtract the weight of any containers before adding ingredients. This will ensure that only the weight of the ingredients themselves is measured.
- • Gently place items on the scale platform. Don’t drop them on the scale, or the scale may give an incorrect reading.
- • For sticky ingredients like honey, lightly spray the scale platform with cooking spray first. This will prevent the ingredient from sticking to the scale.
- • Wipe the scale clean after each use to prevent the buildup of residue. The platform can be removed and washed with soap and water if needed. Avoid submerging the entire scale in liquid.
- • Calibrate the scale if it’s giving inaccurate readings. Check your scale’s manual for calibration instructions specific to your model.
The Etekcity kitchen scale is an all-around great choice for any home baker looking for an affordable, precise, and easy-to-use digital scale. Your recipes will turn out perfectly balanced every time!
Greater Goods Digital Kitchen Scale
The Greater Goods Digital Kitchen Scale is an excellent, affordable choice for any home baker. This popular scale offers precise measurements down to the gram, so you can achieve perfectly balanced recipes every time.
Some of the key features of this scale include:
- • It measures grams, ounces, pounds, and kilograms. For most baking recipes, grams will provide the most accurate measurements.
- • Has a capacity of 11 pounds or 5 kilograms. Perfect for measuring ingredients for cakes, bread, cookies, and more.
- • Features a durable tempered glass platform that’s easy to clean. Just wipe it down with a damp cloth to keep it looking new.
- • It includes two AAA batteries, so you can start using them right away. The auto-off function helps preserve battery life.
- • Comes with a 5-year warranty for added peace of mind. Greater Goods stands behind the quality and performance of this scale.
To use the Greater Goods kitchen scale, place it on a level surface and turn it on using the power button. Select your desired unit of measurement, then add your ingredients to the platform gradually until the display shows your needed amount. For best results, avoid overloading the scale and measure ingredients in stages if needed.
When done, simply wipe the platform clean and turn the scale off. For storage, you can leave the batteries in, but be sure to avoid stacking heavy objects on top of the scale.
For under $30, the Greater Goods Digital Kitchen Scale is a kitchen essential that provides the precision you need to make your favorite recipes shine. No serious baker should be without one!
Escali Primo Digital Multifunction Kitchen Food Scale
The Escali Primo digital kitchen scale is an excellent, affordable option for precision baking. This scale features a large LCD display and touch-sensitive buttons that make operation simple. It measures in.05 5-ounce or 1-gram increments up to 11 pounds or 5 kilograms, so you’ll have no problem measuring even the smallest amounts of ingredients.
An automatic shutoff conserves battery life, and the scale runs on two AAA batteries (included) that provide many hours of use. The platform is made of durable stainless steel and is easy to wipe clean after each use. For compact storage, the Escali Primo scale folds flat and has a hanging hook.
Some additional useful features include:
- a function that allows you to subtract the weight of a container to get the net weight of ingredients
- Unit conversion between ounces, pounds, grams, and kilograms
- LCD display that shows measurement results in large, easy-to-read numbers
- Stainless steel platform that’s non-porous and resists stains and odors
For casual bakers or those on a budget, the Escali Primo digital scale offers excellent value and performance. It’s an ideal tool for measuring ingredients when baking cookies, cakes, breads, and more. For the price, you’ll be hard-pressed to find a more accurate or user-friendly kitchen scale.
Whether you’re an avid or occasional baker, a precise kitchen scale is essential for success. The Escali Primo scale takes the guesswork out of measuring ingredients by weight instead of volume. For consistent, repeatable results every time, choose a trusted brand like Escali, and you’ll enjoy flawless homemade baked goods for years to come.
My Weigh KD8000 Kitchen Scale
The My Weigh KD8000 is a versatile kitchen scale that’s ideal for precision baking. This scale can measure ingredients in ounces, pounds, grams, and kilograms, with an accuracy of 0.1 ounces or 1 gram. It has an easy-to-read backlit display and touch-sensitive buttons.
The scale features a durable stainless steel platform that’s easy to clean and a removable plastic bowl that’s perfect for weighing loose ingredients like flour, sugar, and chocolate chips. The KD8000 can weigh up to 8,000 grams or 17.6 pounds, so you’ll be able to measure even the largest batches of dough or batter.
This kitchen scale is highly rated by professional bakers and home cooks alike for its reliability, accuracy, and useful features. Some of the highlights include:
- a function that allows you to weigh multiple ingredients in the same bowl by resetting the scale to zero. This is useful when adding ingredients one at a time to a recipe.
- Hold function that locks in the weight on the display so you can remove the item from the scale before the reading changes. This allows you to weigh larger bowls and ingredients.
- Easy unit conversion at the touch of a button. Quickly go from ounces to grams to pounds.
- The overload indicator lets you know if you’ve placed too much weight on the scale.
- low battery indicator to ensure your readings remain accurate.
- A 2-year warranty from My Weigh in case of any issues.
For precision baking, the My Weigh KD8000 kitchen scale is a great tool to have in your kitchen. Whether you’re measuring flour, sugar, chocolate, or portions, this scale will provide fast, accurate measurements to help you become a baking pro in no time. Cleaning is easy—just wipe down the stainless steel platform after each use, and the scale is ready for your next recipe. For around $30, the KD8000 offers superb performance and value. Your baked goods will turn out perfectly every time thanks to this handy kitchen helper.
Using and Caring for Your Kitchen Scale FAQs
Once you have your kitchen scale, it’s time to put it to use. Here are some tips for using and caring for your scale:
Calibrating Your Scale
For the most accurate measurements, calibrate your scale before each use. To calibrate, place the scale on a level surface and press the “tare” or “zero” button to reset the display to 0.0. Then place a standard weight (often included with the scale) on the platform to ensure it reads the correct measurement. If it’s off, make any necessary adjustments according to the instructions in your scale’s manual.
Choosing the Right Unit of Measure
Decide whether you want to measure in grams, ounces, or pounds. Grams are a good option for small amounts, while ounces or pounds are better for larger quantities. Refer to your recipe to choose the appropriate unit of measure. Press the unit button on your scale to select the desired measurement.
Placing Ingredients on the Scale
Place your mixing bowl or container on the scale first and press “tare” to reset to 0.0. Then add ingredients one at a time, allowing the scale to stabilize before adding more. For loose ingredients like flour, use a spoon to gradually add them to your container while checking the display. Level off excess ingredients with a knife or spatula.
Cleaning Your Scale
Wipe down the surface of your scale with a damp cloth after each use to remove any debris. For stuck-on messes, use a mild detergent or a commercial scale cleaner/degreaser according to the directions on the product. Avoid submerging the scales in water. Allow all parts to air dry completely before storing.
Storing Your Scale
When not in use, store your scale in a dry location away from extreme heat or cold. Remove the batteries, if applicable, to prevent corrosion. For the most accurate measurements over time, have your scale calibrated by a professional once a year or according to the manufacturer’s recommendation.
Following these tips will help keep your kitchen scale in working order and allow you to get the most precise measurements for all your baking needs. Happy baking!
Conclusion
So there you have it: the 5 best kitchen scales for precision baking, according to our research. With the right scale, you’ll be whipping up perfectly measured macarons, deliciously light soufflés, and Instagram-worthy cakes in no time. Get ready for the compliments to start pouring in from friends and family once they get a taste of your newfound baking skills. Happy baking, and don’t forget to share photos of your creations with us! We’d love to see what kinds of treats you whip up with your new kitchen scale.