If you’ve ever tried to perfect a cookie batch or nail a flaky crust, you know a reliable scale can be the difference between triumph and disappointment. America’s Test Kitchen has tested dozens, and we’ve distilled their findings into a clear, side‑by‑side guide. From sleek digital models with precise increments to sturdy mechanical options that won’t quit mid‑mix, we’ll help you pick the scale that fits your kitchen, budget, and baking ambitions, so you can bake with confidence every time.
Key Takeaways
- Editor’s Choice offers 1-gram precision and 22 lb capacity for reliable baking results.
- Stainless steel build ensures durability while maintaining a compact, space-saving design.
- Bright LCD display enhances readability for precise, stress-free measurements.
- Look for high precision and ample capacity when choosing a baking scale.
- Prioritize durable materials and clear displays for long-term kitchen use.
Greater Goods Digital Food Scale for Kitchen & Baking
Compact Capacity
- 22 lb capacity
- 1‑gram precision
- Bright, easy‑read LCD
- BEST FOR COMPACT CAPACITY: Greater Goods Digital Food Scale for Kitchen & Baking Read More ↓
- BEST FOR EVERYDAY ESSENTIALS: Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display Read More ↓
- BEST FOR LARGE GLASS PLATFORM: Nicewell Food Scale Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PULL-OUT DISPLAY: OXO Good Grips 11-Pound Stainless Steel Kitchen Scale with Pull-Out Display – Black Read More ↓
- BEST FOR COLORFUL DURABLE: Escali Primo Digital Food Scale Multi-Functional Kitchen Scale and Baking Scale for Precise Weight Measuring and Portion Control Read More ↓
- BEST FOR PORTABLE CUTE: Mik-Nana Food Scale Read More ↓
Product Comparison: Best America’S Test Kitchen Baking Scale
Greater Goods Digital Food Scale for Kitchen & Baking, 10kg/22lb High-Capacity Weight Scale with 1g Precision, Stainless Steel Platform, Hi-Def LCD, Ideal for Bread, Sourdough & Bulk Cooking
Greater Goods delivers a sturdy, high‑capacity kitchen scale that can weigh up to 22 lb (10 kg) with 1‑gram precision. The bright LCD shows grams, ounces, lb‑oz, or milliliters, and a hold function keeps the readout visible for up to five minutes.
Its stainless‑steel platform and touch‑sensitive controls resist stains, making cleanup a breeze. The low‑profile, slim design slides easily into drawers, saving valuable counter space for busy bakers and meal‑preppers.
Whether you’re timing a sourdough starter or portioning meat, this reliable scale balances durability with everyday convenience.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 22 lb capacity
- 1‑gram precision
- Bright, easy‑read LCD
- Stainless‑steel durability
- Compact, space‑saving design
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- No built‑in battery indicator
- Hold timer limited to five minutes
- Touch controls can be sensitive
Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale with LCD Display, Batteries Included, Weighs up to 11 pounds, Black and Stainless Steel
Amazon Basics offers an affordable digital kitchen scale that supports weights up to 11 lb (5 kg) with a minimum increment of 2 g. The BPA‑free plastic body houses a stainless‑steel weighing platform and a wide LCD that toggles between pounds, ounces, grams, fluid ounces, and milliliters.
A convenient tare button lets you subtract container weight instantly. Powered by two AAA batteries—included in the box—it’s ready for immediate use.
While its simple interface lacks advanced features, the scale delivers reliable measurements for everyday cooking, baking, and portion control.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Very affordable price point
- Displays pounds, ounces, grams
- Convenient tare function
- Stainless steel weighing platform
- Includes batteries out of box
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to 11 lb capacity
- Plastic body feels cheap
- No backlit display
Nicewell Food Scale, 22lb Digital Kitchen Scale Weight Grams and oz for Cooking Baking, 1g/0.1oz Precise Graduation, Stainless Steel and Tempered Glass (Ash Silver)
Nicewell’s 22‑lb digital kitchen scale delivers studio‑grade accuracy for serious bakers and home cooks. Four high‑precision load sensors register changes as small as 1 g or 0.1 oz, while the spacious 9 × 6.3‑inch tempered‑glass platform holds bowls, dough, or parcels with ease.
The LCD shows grams, kilograms, pounds, ounces, fluid ounces and milliliters, and a simple tare button lets you zero out any container. A sleek stainless‑steel top resists fingerprints, and a built‑in hook offers convenient storage.
Powered by two AAA batteries, the scale includes a protective film that peels away for a scratch‑free surface.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 1 g/0.1 oz precision
- Large tempered‑glass platform
- Multiple unit options
- Easy tare function
- Sturdy stainless‑steel top
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Protective film must be removed
- Battery life depends on use
- No backlit display
OXO Good Grips 11-Pound Stainless Steel Kitchen Scale with Pull-Out Display – Black
OXO’s 11‑pound stainless‑steel kitchen scale combines sleek design with practical features for everyday cooking. The pull‑out display rises above the weighing platform, eliminating shadows from large bowls and ensuring clear readouts in grams, ounces, or pounds.
A removable stainless‑steel platform wipes clean in seconds, while the zero‑function quickly tars the scale for precise ingredient additions. The stainless surface resists smudges and fingerprints, keeping the scale looking pristine.
Compact yet sturdy, it fits neatly on countertops and offers a reliable digital readout for bakers, portion control, and simple kitchen tasks.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Pull‑out display eliminates shadows
- Removable stainless platform
- Fingerprint‑resistant surface
- Easy zero‑tare button
- Compact countertop footprint
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Limited to 11 lb capacity
- No backlit LCD
- Battery replacement required
Escali Primo Digital Food Scale Multi-Functional Kitchen Scale and Baking Scale for Precise Weight Measuring and Portion Control, 8.5 x 6 x 1.5 inches, Chrome
The Escali Primo Digital Food Scale blends sleek design with practical features for everyday cooking and precise baking. Its sealed control panel protects the two-button interface from spills, keeping the surface easy to clean and durable.
A built‑in tare function lets you zero out containers, while the automatic shut‑off conserves battery life after four minutes of inactivity. With a generous 11‑lb (5,000 g) capacity and 0.05‑oz (1 g) increments, you can measure ingredients accurately in ounces, pounds‑ounces, or grams.
Available in several playful colors, the scale also carries a lifetime warranty for peace of mind.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- Simple two-button operation
- Sealed control panel
- High 11‑lb capacity
- Precise 1‑g increments
- Lifetime warranty included
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- Battery life limited
- No backlit display
Mik-Nana Food Scale, 10kg/22lb Digital Kitchen Scale Weight Grams and Ounces for Baking Cooking Coffee Package Postage, 6 Units with Tare Function, LCD Display, Easy Clean Stainless Steel
The Mik‑Nana Digital Kitchen Scale offers a robust 10 kg (22 lb) capacity with 1 g (0.1 oz) resolution, making it ideal for baking, cooking, and portion control. Six measurement units—including grams, kilograms, pounds, ounces, milliliters, and milk milliliters—provide flexibility for any recipe.
An easy‑tare button subtracts container weight for precise results, while the compact 7.4 × 5.5 × 0.6‑inch footprint fits neatly on any countertop or drawer. The bright LCD display is legible, and an automatic shut‑off after three minutes conserves battery power.
Its lightweight, portable design makes it a handy tool for both home chefs and travelers.
✓ Reasons to Buy
- 10‑kg high capacity
- Six measurement units
- Easy tare function
- Compact footprint design
- Auto‑off display timer
✗ Reasons Not to Buy
- LCD can be dim
- No stainless steel platform
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Buying Guide
FAQs
What key features should I prioritize when choosing a baking scale?
Look for a scale with a minimum weight of 0.1 oz (1 g) and a high maximum capacity, typically 10–15 lb (4.5–7 kg). A tare function, easy‑to‑read LCD, and a stable, non‑slip base are essential for consistent results. Some models also offer a built-in timer or Bluetooth connectivity for recipe apps.
How does the America’s Test Kitchen (ATK) recommended scale compare to other popular brands?
The ATK‑endorsed scale, such as the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel, often balances precision and durability better than budget options like kitchen timers. Compared to premium models like the Escali Primo, it offers similar accuracy but at a lower price point. However, it may lack advanced features like Bluetooth syncing found in high‑end scales.
Is a digital or mechanical scale better for baking?
Digital scales provide greater precision, typically measuring to 0.1 g, which is crucial for recipes that require exact ratios. Mechanical scales are robust and don’t need batteries, but they usually only measure to the nearest gram, which can affect delicate pastries. For most home bakers, a digital scale offers the best value and consistency.
What price range delivers the best value for a reliable baking scale?
A solid, accurate scale can be found between $20 and $40, offering features like tare, auto‑off, and a clear display. Spending more than $60 generally adds premium materials or smart connectivity, which may be unnecessary for basic baking needs. Look for sales or bundles that include a silicone mat to stretch your budget further.
How important is the scale’s platform size for everyday use?
A larger platform accommodates bowls, containers, and even small baking trays, reducing the need to reposition ingredients. Scales with a 6‑inch diameter platform are versatile for most home kitchens, while compact models may be sufficient if you only weigh small amounts of spices. Consider your typical recipe sizes when evaluating platform dimensions.
Can I rely on a baking scale for both dry and liquid ingredients?
Yes, a good scale measures both dry and liquid ingredients accurately, especially when using a container with the tare function to zero out the weight. Some scales include a “liquid mode” that compensates for surface tension, but most digital scales handle liquids just fine. Ensure the scale’s maximum capacity can handle the combined weight of your container and ingredients.
What maintenance tips will keep my baking scale performing optimally?
Wipe the platform with a damp cloth after each use and avoid exposing the scale to excessive moisture or heat. Periodically check the battery level and replace it with high‑quality alkaline cells to maintain consistent accuracy. Calibrate the scale according to the manufacturer’s instructions, especially after moving it or after a long period of inactivity.