Best Pocket Scales

Technology continues to make digital devices more convenient to carry and usually less heavy. Those of us who remember big, clunky scales in science classe can relate. However, with today’s pocket scales, you may be able to expedite the airport lines, grocery checkouts, pawn shops and more.

There are plenty of moments when you may wish you had a pocket scale on occasion. For example, if you’ve noticed an increase in malls looking to buy gold jewelry, this is your chance to clean up your jewelry box. From pawn shops to jewelry stores, these jewelry locations measure the value of earrings, bracelets and more by weight and value. Without the best pocket scale for your diamonds and/or gold, you’ll pretty much have to take their word for it when it comes to value price. That is, unless you kept your receipt and have monitored the going rates for these kinds of accessories.

Letters and parcels can sometimes be used on pocket scales, but they’re not always ideal considering the item being mailed may not fit on the weighing stand. And mailboxes often have a weight maximum so you’ll probably end up going to your nearest post office to ship the box or envelope anyway.

A pocket scale can be used for a variety of other items, including medicine (ex. pills) and kitchen needs (ex. coffee, tea, herbs). Medicine gets a little tricky because pharmacies usually take care of that. But if you reside in a state where other forms of plants and herbs are legal to sell and grow, a pocket scale may be useful for individual needs.

Pop-up shops and cafes may want to use a pocket scale for preparing coffee and tea. Sometimes directions will ask for a certain amount of grams instead of spoons. Or, maybe you’ll want to test out different measurements to see what refreshments fit you best. Measure items in grams (g); ounces (oz); ounce, troy scale (ozt); deadweight (dwt); carats (ct); and grains (gn).

Whether you choose a pocket scale for these suggestions or others, after you’re done, just drop into your bag, purse, suitcase, etc., and move along.

Best Pocket Scales

1. 4UMOR Luggage Scale

There is nothing fun about getting all the way to the airport just to find out that your bathroom scale didn’t help with estimating the weight of your suitcase. Although pocket scales are largely tied to jewelry, medicine and herbs, the best digital pocket scales come in handy for weighing luggage too.

Key Features

• Auto off in 60 seconds
• One button for four-unit conversions
• Bright liquid crystal display (LCD)

Make sure the pocket scale is set to 0.00 before use. Attach the strap or hook to your luggage handle, and then lift the scale off the ground. The auto-lock function will read the weight quickly and accurately.

While this tech gadget may be slightly larger in your pocket than some smaller pocket scales, it’s not so bad that it won’t fit. This portable digital scale measures 6 inches x 1.4 inches x 2 inches. It only weighs 3.2 ounces and can easily be stored in your carry-on bag. The maximum weight capacity is 110 pounds.

Cons

• You must be able to hold weight of luggage long enough to record weight
• Verify with airline whether this pocket scale must be kept in on/off mode while flying

With an auto-shut feature after 60 seconds of no use, you can avoid overloading your battery. (There is a low-battery warning.) The battery life for one 3V Lithium Cell CR2032 battery is approximately 12 to 18 months. If you’re not satisfied with this pocket scale, there is 100 percent money-back guarantee and a one-year warranty. It is highly recommended to keep the pocket scale in your clothes or carry-on bag instead of keeping it attached to other luggage. This prevents the risk of theft or damage during your commute.

2. Hochoice Accuracy Digital Portable Pocket Scale

Check measurements anytime on the digital display of this pocket scale. With the crystal, transparent button attached, the pocket scale is easy to operate as needed.

Key Features

• Optional 20 grams to 50 grams capacity
• 001 grams readability
• Easy-to-read LCD backlight for night (and day) viewing

Several functions on this pocket scale include zero and tare function; counting function; calibration function; lower power indication; multiple units conversion; a high-precision strain gauge sensors system, and a standby time of 180 days. Small (4.8 inches x 0.4 inches x 2.7 inches) and lightweight (3.36 ounces), it can be carried in a small bag or pocket. The maximum weight capacity is 50 grams.

Cons

• Calibration is manual

There is an auto-shut feature on this pocket scale to avoid wasting electricity. Although the standby time is 180 days, if you know you will not be using this on a regular basis, you may want to remove the three AAA batteries altogether to prevent rust. Or, use an external USB power supply as an alternative.

3. American Weigh Scales

With a backlit LCD display that helps to view and measure weight easily and quickly, this pocket scale also has a protective cover door to avoid accidentally pushing buttons while the scale is in your pocket.

Key Features

• Backlit LCD display
• Stainless steel
• Switching mode options (grams, ounces, troy ounces, pennyweights, tarring)

If you’ve got pockets big enough to fit a checkbook, then they can also hold this pocket scale (3 inches x 5 inches x 0.8 inches). This body scale weighs approximately 4 ounces and comes pre-calibrated, ready to measure as needed. The maximum weight capacity is 600 grams.

Cons

• Calibrates with 500 gram weight (sold separately)
• Pocket scale reviews report the weight of the same item may change within the same timeframe
• Unlike other protective doors, this one does not come off for extra weighing options

You will have plenty of time to decide whether this is the best pocket scale for you as it has a 10-year limited warranty.

4. Brifit Digital Mini Scale

With high-precision sensors, this pocket scale provides accurate weight readings. Additionally, the clamshell design protects the weighing platform and helps to avoid accidental button presses in a pocket.

Key Features

• Calibration weight (included)
• Rugged plastic cover
• Stainless steel platform

The pocket scale (3 inches x 5 inches x ¾ inches) is a mix of agitated behavior scale (ABS), silicone and rust. The auto-off option will start after 180 seconds of inactivity to help save battery usage. With a weight capacity of 200 grams, there are six conversion options to measure the item of your choice on the LCD display with an orange backlight. Numbers are large and easy to read. You’ll just need two AAA batteries to operate it. (If you try to weigh something that is too heavy, an overweight indicator will appear.)

Cons

• Small vibrations may significantly affect the accuracy of readings
• Pocket scale reviews confirm the back battery compartment door falls off
• Unlike other protective doors, this one does not come off for extra weighing options

With a one-year guarantee, you have the option for a money-back guarantee. But before first use, use the weight to calibrate the weight platform for accuracy.

5. GDEALER Digital Pocket Scale

If you’ve ever strolled around a grocery store with the same confusion as you would looking for Waldo, you’re not alone. Food scales aren’t always as available as they used to be, and having a pocket scale available can save you the steps from looking around. While you could always take the self-checkout scale or cashier at face value, having an idea of what your fruit or vegetables weigh before you get there may help you make a more economical choice beforehand.

Key Features

• High-sensitivity gravity sensor
• Stainless steel plate
• Five conversion options (g, ct, dwt, ozt, o)

The ABS plastic frame and stainless steel plate on this pocket scale (13.2 inches x 16.3 inches x 3.9 inches) are lightweight (8.8 ounces) and durable. The LCD display showcases the weight with a blue backlight, handy for night reading. Weigh all kinds of food, including fruit, seasonings and herbs with a maximum weight capacity of 500 grams.

Cons

• Several pocket scale reviews state that the measurements are inaccurate

With a one-year warranty for these food scales, enjoy shopping with a better idea of your budget before you reach the cash register.

6. LuckyStone Portable Digital Pocket Scale

Carry the portable scale in your pocket with the built-in covering case. And if you want to, slide the scale into the leather case (also included) for extra cushion (and probably less risk of accidental breaks).

Key Features

• Platform stainless steel
• Display LCD with auto-dim backlight
• Seven conversion options (g, oz, t, gn, ozt, dwt, ct)

Remove the clear protective film before using the portable scale (4.6 inches x 2.5 inches x 0.7 inches) the first time. Measure items as needed. The maximum weight capacity is 100 grams.

Cons

• Avoid scale near computer and radiation
• Instruction manual only in Chinese and English
• Several pocket scale reviews confirm it may be difficult to open the first time

Although the weighing area is smaller, the top cover can also be used as a weighing platform for larger items. In order to weigh wider/larger items, you’d just have to turn the top cover sideways to read the numbers underneath.

7. American Weigh Scales

Whether you’re measuring grains, candy, fruit or more, this digital pocket scale will come in handy for grocery stores, as well as outdoor fruit and vegetable festivals. (If prices are estimated by measurements, there’s no harm in double checking.)

Key Features

• Stainless steel platform
• Blue, backlit LCD screen
• On/off switch and tare function

The backlight option on this pocket scale (4.8 inches x 5.3 inches x 1.2 inches) is helpful for easily reading measurements during the day, with low lighting and at night. With two AAA batteries, just press the on/off button and measure away.

Cons

• No AC adapter option

If the initial weighing platform is too small, the covers can also double for measurements for larger items. The maximum weight capacity is 2,000 grams and this pocket scale has a 10 year warranty.

8. Pocket Food Scales

If you’re on a party-planning mission and want to prepare little candy bags, your pocket scale will be ultra-convenient. From bridal showers to baby showers, just measure small candy and add to giveaway bags evenly. This scale could also come in handy for kids’ parties to avoid the arguments about who got more candy.

Key Features

• Stainless steel surface
• Smart button
• Five conversion options (g, oz, ct, tl, gn)

If the pocket scale is not used for 60 seconds, the energy-saving option will automatically turn off to help extend the life of the two AAA batteries. Lightweight (3.36 ounces) and easy to carry in a pocket or bag, you can carry it for shopping or leave on your desk until you need it. The tray is also removable and can be used as a larger weight scale. The maximum weight capacity is 500 grams.

Cons

• One pocket scale review reported continuous need for a 500-gram calibration weight for accuracy

With a high-precision sensor system, the scale comes in handy for jewelry, coffee, coins, etc.  With candy though, loose candy may be easier to measure than candy in bulky wraps.

9. American Weigh Scales

Choose between black and red for this hand-held digital pocket scale. With a three-key option along the side expansion tray, choose between the on/off button, mode and tare. Slide the tray back into its square shape when you’re done.

Key Features

• Retractable backlit display
• Two expansion trays
• Flip-out display

Above the three-key buttons, measurements are shown on the LCD screen with a retractable backlit display. The plastic cover that can be used to protect the weight platform also doubles as a second weight platform for larger (and loose) items. In order to calibrate, you may need a 100-gram weight, according to pocket scale reviews.

Cons

• Several pocket scale reviews complain about loose battery cover

The maximum weight capacity is 100 grams which may be a tad on the small side but the scale is backed by a 10-year American Weigh warranty.

10. LCD Portable Digital Scale

Sure, new iPhone and Android smartphones seem to be coming out every week. But if you long for the nostalgia of flip phones, here’s your chance to have a “flip phone” and a pocket scale at the same time.

Key Features

• High-precision straining resistance sensor
• Full-tare capacity
• Stainless steel platform

Press the on/off switch, and flip up the protective cover to measure various items. Similar to a regular smartphone, the measurements on this pocket scale (4.75 inches x 3.15 inches) are easy to read on LCD screen (with a back blacklight). Two AAA batteries are needed for operation and included with the digital scale flip phone. The maximum weight capacity is 350 grams.

Cons

• May need initial calibration

Use the instruction manual printed on the inside flap for instructions and calibration before potential returns. This pocket scale has a 10-year limited warranty.

11. LCD Portable Digital Scale

Cigarettes are bad for you. This pocket scale, however, will save you the lecture about that health concern. (It may not be the best gift for the smoker in your life who is trying to quit though.)

Key Features

• Clamshell design
• Stainless steel
• Six conversion options (g, oz, ozt, dwt, ct, gn)

Easy to carry by pocket, the digital pocket scale (3.5 inches x 2.17 inches x 0.9 inches) weighs approximately 0.3 kilograms.  High quality with a digital LED display, the numbers are large and easy to read on the white backlight. It will require a CR2032 battery. The maximum weight capacity is 1,000 grams.

Cons

• Battery not included

No matter the novelty look, as with other digital pocket scales, do not shake or tap the bottom for use. Flip open and measure as instructed in the manual.

Bottom Line

While most of the scales above have a manufacturer warranty, before returning, calibrating is recommended. Calibration is often completed when a scale is moved. But because these are pocket scales and often moved around, it makes more sense to calibrate before first use, when there are drastic temperature changes, and when the measurements are inaccurate.

Also, make sure to keep the weighing platform clear of sticky products. Purified water, lemon juice and/or other eco-friendly products are useful for clearing away salt, smears from food, fingerprints and more. Avoid shaking the pocket scale upside down or banging it to get food debris or other products off of the scale. Even though the scale is portable, it is still an electronic device that can be as sensitive as a smartphone, tablet or other digital advice. Treat it with care.