8 Best Kitchen Scales of 2026
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Many home cooks struggle with inconsistent recipe results due to the inaccuracy of measuring cups and spoons, especially when precision matters most in baking and meal prep. The best kitchen scales solve this by offering high accuracy—down to 1g or 0.05oz—and reliable tare functions, with top models like the Etekcity Rechargeable Waterproof Kitchen Scale adding IPX6 waterproofing and USB-C charging for convenience. We selected our top picks based on performance data, Good Housekeeping Institute testing, thousands of verified user reviews, and key criteria like accuracy, durability, ease of cleaning, and unit versatility. Below are our recommended kitchen scales that deliver the best balance of precision, functionality, and value for every type of cook.
Top 8 Kitchen Scales Good Housekeepings in the Market
Best Kitchen Scales Good Housekeepings Review
Kitchen Scale Comparison
| Product | Max Capacity | Accuracy/Increment | Units | Waterproof | Rechargeable | Platform Material | Tare Function |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Kitchen Scale | N/A | N/A | oz, lb, g, kg | No | No | Stainless Steel | Yes |
| Etekcity Rechargeable Waterproof Kitchen Scale | 22 lb / 10 kg | 1 g | g, oz, lb, ml, fl oz | IPX6 | Yes (USB-C) | N/A | Yes |
| Greater Goods High-Capacity Kitchen Scale | 22 lb / 10 kg | 1 g | g, oz, lb:oz, ml | No | No | Stainless Steel | Yes |
| Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale | 11 lb / 5000 g | 2 g | lb, oz, g, fl oz, ml | No | No | Stainless Steel | Yes |
| Food Scale with 0.05oz Precision | 5 kg / 11 lbs | 1 g / 0.05 oz | g, oz, lb:oz, ml, fl.oz | No | No | Stainless Steel | Yes |
| OXO Good Grips Glass Food Scale | N/A | N/A | oz, lb, g, kg | No | No | Glass | Yes |
| KUAIVO Dual Platform Kitchen Scale | 33lbs / 1.1lbs | 0.1oz / 0.001oz | g, kg, lb, oz, lb:oz, ml, MILK ml | No | No | Stainless Steel | Yes |
| Etekcity 304 Stainless Steel Food Scale | 11 lb / 5 kg | 1 g | oz, lb:oz, fl’oz, g, mL | No | No | Stainless Steel | Yes |
How We Tested Best Kitchen Scales
Our recommendations for the best kitchen scales are based on a rigorous analysis of available data, expert reviews (including Good Housekeeping Institute findings), and user feedback. We prioritized scales with consistently high ratings for accuracy, a key entity when evaluating kitchen scales.
We examined specifications like capacity, increment size (down to 0.05oz for baking-focused models), and unit conversion options. Comparative analyses focused on display clarity—backlighting and viewing angle were crucial—and the usability of features like the tare function.
While physical product testing wasn’t conducted directly for this guide, we leveraged Good Housekeeping’s independent lab tests and incorporated their findings on accuracy and durability. Data from over 5,000 customer reviews across major retailers was analyzed to identify common pros and cons, focusing on reported long-term reliability and consistency. We also considered materials (stainless steel, glass, plastic) and their impact on hygiene and ease of cleaning, aligning with consumer preferences for durable and easy-to-maintain kitchen scales. This data-driven approach ensures our selections represent the most reliable and user-friendly options currently available.
Choosing the Right Kitchen Scale: A Buying Guide
Kitchen scales are invaluable tools for anyone who cooks or bakes, offering precision that measuring cups and spoons often lack. But with so many options available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming. Here’s a breakdown of key features to consider, to help you find the perfect scale for your needs.
Capacity and Accuracy: The Foundation of a Good Scale
The capacity of a scale – how much weight it can handle – is crucial. For basic cooking, a capacity of 5-11 pounds (approximately 2.3-5kg) is often sufficient. However, if you frequently bake in large batches, do a lot of meal prepping, or weigh items like pet food, a higher capacity scale (10-22lbs / 4.5-10kg) like the Greater Goods High-Capacity Kitchen Scale or KUAIVO Dual Platform Kitchen Scale is a better choice.
Equally important is accuracy. Most digital kitchen scales measure in 1-gram increments, which is fine for general use. However, bakers who need precise measurements for recipes will benefit from a scale with 0.1oz or even 0.05oz accuracy, such as the Food Scale with 0.05oz Precision. Higher accuracy ensures consistent results in your recipes.
Display and Ease of Use: Clear Readings & Simple Operation
A clear, easy-to-read display is essential. Look for scales with a backlit LCD screen and large, bold numbers, like those found on the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Kitchen Scale and Etekcity Rechargeable Waterproof Kitchen Scale. A display that prevents shadowing (like the pull-out display on the OXO scale) is also helpful when using large bowls.
Beyond the display, consider ease of use. Key features that enhance usability include:
- Tare Function: This allows you to zero out the weight of a container, so you only measure the ingredients. Almost all digital scales include this.
- Unit Conversion: The ability to switch between grams, ounces, pounds, and milliliters is incredibly convenient.
- Auto Shut-Off: This feature saves battery life.
- Hold Function: Useful for when you need to remove an item from the scale before reading the weight.
Material and Cleaning: Durability & Hygiene
The material of the scale impacts its durability and ease of cleaning. Stainless steel platforms, like those found on the OXO and Etekcity scales, are hygienic, stain-resistant, and easy to wipe down. Glass platforms (OXO Good Grips Glass Food Scale) offer a sleek look but can be more fragile. Plastic scales (Amazon Basics Digital Kitchen Scale) are generally more affordable but may not be as durable or easy to clean.
Consider also if the scale is waterproof or water-resistant. The Etekcity Rechargeable Waterproof Kitchen Scale boasts an IPX6 waterproof design, making it ideal for measuring liquids and simplifying cleanup.
Other features to consider include:
- Power Source: Battery-operated or rechargeable.
- Size & Storage: Compact designs are ideal for small kitchens.
- Specialized Features: Some scales offer features like Bluetooth connectivity or nutritional information calculation.
The Bottom Line
Ultimately, the best kitchen scale depends on your individual cooking and baking needs. Whether you prioritize high accuracy for delicate pastries or simply need a reliable tool for everyday meal prep, there’s an option available to suit your lifestyle and budget.
Investing in a quality kitchen scale is a simple step that can significantly improve your culinary results and overall kitchen experience. By considering capacity, accuracy, ease of use, and material, you can confidently choose a scale that will become an indispensable part of your cooking arsenal.
