Choosing Accurate Bathroom Scales

For various reasons, not all bathroom scales are as accurate. Here are the features and other characteristics to look for when choosing an accurate bathroom scale to buy.

ANALOG OR DIGITAL?

Analog scales are typically less expensive, but only by $5-10. According to life123.com, digital scales are usually more accurate. They also allow you to see the exact amount. A difference of up to one pound (or more) may be indistinguishable on analog scales, whereas many digital scales show the nearest 1/5th (0.2) pound.

The only major downside of digital bathroom scales is that they require batteries, except for solar scales like the Tanita HS-301.

WEIGHT CAPACITY

Scales cannot be accurate if the owner's weight exceeds their maximum capacity. Most bathroom scales have a top weight of 330, 350, or 400 pounds. Scales under $25 usually have a 330-pound capacity. If this is a concern, be sure to check the box or product description before purchasing a scale. The scale should also be large enough for you to stand on normally.

POUND INCREMENTS

Bathroom scales with more distinct increments allow for greater accuracy and the identification of minor changes. It is best to find an analog scale with a large gauge and many increment markings, or a digital model which shows fractions of a pound. Most show the nearest 1/5th pound, a few are accurate to the nearest 1/10th, 1/4th, or 1/2.

Scales that measure to the nearest tenth pound generally cost $35 or more, and include models such as the Weight Watchers WW39 and Health-O-Meter 844KL.

PRODUCT QUALITY

Regardless of its features, a bathroom scale must be made with quality to remain consistently accurate. Reading multiple online reviews of the individual scales is often the best way to determine their accuracy level. Some good places to find these reviews include Amazon.com, LargePrintReviews.com, and product pages on the websites of major chain stores.

BUYING USED

Secondhand bathroom scales are more likely to have problems caused by misuse or damage. However, they have some advantages; you can usually try them out before buying them, and they cost less. This may allow you to obtain a higher-quality scale at the same or lower cost than a basic new scale. I recently purchased a used Health-O-Meter digital bathroom scale for $1 at a garage sale. It needed a new battery but works well and is rather accurate.

TESTING

After purchasing a bathroom scale, make sure it is accurate by testing it. Stand on it a few times and make sure the same weight is indicated each time. Also, as bathroomscentral.com suggests, try weighing an object you already know the exact weight for - like a five pound box of baking mix. If the scale isn't reasonably accurate, bring it back to the store and exchange it for another model.

SOURCES:
1. Life123, http://www.life123.com/health/weight-loss/weight-loss-tips/choosing-the-best-bathroom-scales.shtml

2. BathroomsCentral,
http://bathroomscentral.com/Bathroom_Scales.html