Due to the relative simplicity of the design of kitchen scales - one of the cheapest household appliances. But this does not negate the problem of choice, as the only true selected device will provide accurate measurements.
Only two species - both mechanical and electrical. The main differences are related to the principle of action.
The mechanism is based on the action of a calibrated spring which is coupled with a system of levers and fixed to the container axis direction. Filled cup presses the levers that weaken the spring depending on the received mass, which results in movement of the arrow. It takes a certain position on the scale, and shows the weight.
This type of construction is characterized by simplicity, therefore considered the most reliable.
Other advantages include:
- relatively large maximum weight - 15 kg;
- full autonomy;
- low price.
From disadvantages - large variation in the scale range. The difference in division step is from 5 to 50 grams and increases with time because of the spring tension.
electronic
There base unit is a strain gauge. Pressure on the platform is converted into an electrical signal which is fed center plate. The obtained data are displayed.
Positive features of these devices:
- small size;
- high accuracy;
- long-term operation without any serious errors;
- the presence of additional functions.
The most important drawback is considered dependent on the power supply, which should be changed regularly. To this must be added the higher cost.
important factors
The price of the device design features affect the accuracy of measurements and the upper limit, the material and the presence of additional functions. They also determine the choice of model.
Design
There are three basic design types of scales that are different capacities for weighing:
- Flat platform. Used for meat or fish, and crisp ingredients must first be placed in a cup or other container.
- Bowl. It is convenient for weighing of loose products or small piece.
- A spoon. Generally it has a small size and is used to measure the weight of small pieces of sugar, salt, soda, and similar substances.
In addition to these, there are elements of custom design. Most often, you can buy them separately.
Error
This parameter, which depends on the accuracy. The best characteristic of this electronic apparatus, their accuracy is from 0.1 to 2 gram. The mechanics differ less accuracy - from 5 to 50 grams.
Upper limit
Different types of scales can withstand different maximum load. The mechanical balance is maintained between 10 and 15 kg. Electronic this component is generally from 3 to 5 kg. There are options with a full load of about 20 kilograms, but they are more expensive.
Material
On it depends the strength of the device, and hence its longevity. The material may be:
- Plastics - often used in low-cost devices. The high-quality devices, the cup is made of food grade plastic.
- Metal - usually stainless steel. Durable material, but significantly increases the price.
- Glass - used for platforms on the electronic models. It is shock-resistant material, but with such devices is still worth handled with care. An additional plus - hygiene.
As decorative elements can be used wood, but it is sensitive to moisture, which should be considered when using.
Additional options
Electronic versions of these appliances are fitted with different functionality:
- Washer premium class can count calories. Depending on the product and its weight is automatically counted every calorie.
- easy operation to add a function to change the parameters of the weighing kilograms per milliliter. Thus to determine the mass of liquids can be more precisely.
- On smart scale runs sequential weighing option. E-filling and built-in memory allows you to count all the ingredients, and then summarize their total weight.
- Some models are equipped with a clock that shows the time when the machine is not used for its intended purpose.
- For a small kitchen is helpful to wall mount. It allows you to save space for other devices.
- The thermometer, which informs about the temperature in the room.
Washer medium and premium segment can be equipped with other useful features. However, each of them increases the cost of initially inexpensive device.
Ranking of the best models
In this ranking of the best kitchen scales are considered models of popular brands. The review may guide the selection.
platform
Equipment of this variety is usually equipped with an electronic stuffing and sold at prices middle segment.
Joseph Joseph TriScale

Compact model, the size of which is further reduced due to the evolving design. Scales can easily take with them into the usual bag.
Pros:
- small but robust stand for cookware of any size;
- the choice of the scale;
- simple and clear touch tuning circuit;
- is a function of resetting tare weighing net product;
- limit load of 5 kg;
- convenient folding mechanics.
Minuses:
- difficulties with the care of the folding mechanism;
- the high price of about 3.2 thousand. rubles.
caso L15

Scales with a large carrying capacity, which reaches 15 kg. The dimensions are quite compact.
Benefits:
- durable casing of stainless steel;
- LCD display with large numbers, located at a comfortable angle for visual inspection;
- a large area of the platform.
Disadvantages:
- too sensitive to surface contamination;
- do not react to small changes in weight of 1-2 grams.
beurer KS48

German Glass model manufacture with high measurement accuracy. Maximum can weigh 5 kg product.
Advantages:
- error of less than 1 gram;
- very thin and light;
- glass platform without joints;
- tarokompensatsiya;
- sensitive sensor.
Disadvantages:
- sensitivity of the sensor can also be attributed to the cons, because the device is triggered by accidental contact;
- fragile.
With a bowl
Such scales often have mechanical stuffing, but electronics greater demand due to the accuracy of measurements. Therefore, only the electronic devices involved in this category.
bugatti UMA56

The most expensive model, but its functionality is worth the money spent. Main feature in comparison with other - removable conical bowl, which can be washed in the dishwasher.
Pros:
- sequential weighing;
- convenient for visual perception of the display;
- possibility to change the measurement units;
- timer function;
- tarokompensatsiya;
- Auto Power Off.
Only
beurer KS54

Inexpensive model with a wide range of additional options. German brand can count on high-quality performance and durability.
Benefits:
- the basic elements of the stainless steel;
- removable bowl, which can be washed in the dishwasher;
- memory for weighing;
- comfortable keypad for setup;
- presence of illumination on the display;
- built-in thermometer and timer.
All reviews are positive that with the reasonable price provides the high demand.
maxwell MW1451

Some of the most popular scales. Different from other oval container, which is used as a cover in the idle state.
Advantages:
- low error is not greater than 1 gram;
- sequential weighting overall result;
- switching from kilograms per milliliter for liquid;
- tarokompensatsiya;
- overload indication and battery charge.
Disadvantages:
- a relatively small capacity;
- difficulties in changing batteries.
measuring spoons
This type of devices intended for measurement of a small amount of loose ingredients with high accuracy.
Endever KS-513

Chinese model with inherent manufacturing advantages and disadvantages. Buy it possible for relatively little money.
Pros:
- a small error;
- display normal reading size;
- Easy adjustment scheme through the housing of a button.
Minuses:
- excessive sensitivity;
- real accuracy of the stated below;
- inability to use on the weight.
Vigor HX-8211

Another Chinese phone can receive information about the weight of product in grams, ounces and milliliters. Indications on the display are duplicated on the scale itself spoon.
Benefits:
- folding design;
- the accuracy of declared parameters correspond to the real;
- working with his hands.
Disadvantages:
- too light;
- quickly sit down batteries.
Digital Spoon Scale

Among the other counterparts, one of the most reliable models. The material used food grade plastic. It has a built-in memory and stores the results.
Advantages:
- easy setup;
- ease of use;
- several kinds of processing;
- high accuracy;
- function scale change.
Disadvantages:
- when replacing the batteries can not do without a screwdriver;
- You need to weigh in a strictly horizontal position.
mechanical
If powered by batteries seem unreliable, select the mechanics, which is completely autonomous. Despite the relatively low accuracy of the results, this view is still in demand devices.
Scarlett SC-1219

Standard mechanical scales. Dual scale allows you to weigh in pounds and kilograms.
Pros:
- large designation unit;
- High load 5 kg;
- Universal bowl;
- reliable mechanics.
As
Vitesse VS-1278

The unusual design. Use of a stainless steel construction in combination with reliable mechanism provide durability.
Benefits:
- good load limit;
- average parameters of error;
- A clearly visible scale for reading;
- undemanding of care.
Only
Gipfel 5688

The machine impresses with its large dial, which is convenient for sight. Housing and bowl made of solid stainless steel.
Advantages:
- removable bowl that is easy to clean;
- a small error of up to 10 grams;
- maximum weight of 5 kg;
- stable stand.
Judging by the reviews,
The selection of suitable kitchen scales will not cause problems. The main parameters that need to pay attention - the weight limit and error. If according to the manufacturer specifications satisfied, even the simplest patterns will become a reliable assistant in cooking dishes and preservation of the crop.