CNET staff -- not advertisers, partners or business interests -- determine how we review products and services. If you buy through our links, we may earn a commission.
Whether you're an aspiring baker, hoping to make the perfect cup of coffee or a meal prepper, a kitchen scale will come in handy, and there are plenty of options on the market.
Our Picks Best overall kitchen scale OXO's 11-lb. Stainless Steel Food Scale with Pull-out Display $64 at Amazon This scale proved highly accurate during tests with various weights, all the way down to one single gram. It also was both simple to use and easy to clean. Plus, the pull-out display lights up and is ideal when using a large bowl that would otherwise cover the weight reading. Pros Pull-out display
Removable base Cons Uses 4 batteries (included) Expand Pros & Cons Best mechanical kitchen scale Taylor Mechanical Scale $23 at Amazon This scale was accurate and easy to assemble. Because batteries aren't required with mechanical scales, you never have to worry about them draining or your scale not being ready to use. Pros Accurate
No batteries needed
Removable bowl Cons Bulky Expand Pros & Cons Best cheap kitchen scale Etekcity Food Kitchen Scale $14 at Amazon This compact scale is accurate and easy to use. When adding one gram to the scale, it occasionally took a few seconds longer than other scales to register the new weight. However, it was extremely accurate overall, especially with weights above one gram and when the weight was placed in the middle of the scale. Plus, its slimness makes it the easiest scale to tuck away into any kitchen drawer or cabinet. Pros Affordable
Lightweight Cons Might not be as durable as others Expand Pros & Cons Best splurge kitchen scale SMEG Contemporary Kitchen Scale $150 at Crate & Barrel Like all of SMEG’s retro-inspired tools and appliances, this kitchen scale is aesthetically pleasing. It's also accurate. It has a removable, dishwasher-safe bowl and functions for up to 23 hours before needing a recharge. The light-up screen made the weight readings easy to read, and it can displays the weight in four units (grams, milliliters, pounds and ounces). Pros Unique design
Rechargeable Cons Slightly bulky
Not as versatile as a flat scale Expand Pros & Cons
Kitchen scales have many uses, including meal preparation. Moyo Studio/Getty Images
... continue reading