Why You Need a Coffee Scale For Your Coffee

I have always researched ways to improve my coffee’s taste. And my research led me to coffee scales, which improve beverage flavor. Hence, I wrote this guide.

I’ll talk about the following throughout this piece:

Read on to learn more.

Key Takeaways

• A coffee scale is a device used to measure the weight of coffee & water during brewing.
• Important to have because it can help achieve consistent results & better flavor in coffee brewing.
• More accurate than kitchen scales, & often have additional features, such as a built-in timer.
• Use a coffee scale whenever brewing coffee, especially for brewing methods such as espresso & pour over.

What Is a Coffee Scale

A coffee scale is a device used to measure the weight of coffee and water during the brewing process. It’s a more accurate way to measure coffee than using tablespoons or scoops since it has accuracy to 0.1 grams.

Because of this accuracy, it can help you to achieve more consistent results in your coffee brewing.

Learn why having one is important.

Why Having a Coffee Scale Is Important

A coffee scale is essential because it can help you achieve consistent results and better flavor in your brewing. Thanks to the scale’s accurate measurements, you risk less inconsistent distribution in your filters.

Here are some of the other reasons why:

• Consistency: A coffee scale can help you to measure the exact amount of coffee & water each time.
  • If you use too much or too little coffee, your coffee will not taste its best.
• Better flavor: Can help you to extract the best flavor from your coffee beans.
  • You control the coffee-to-water ratio, which affects the extraction time.
• Experimentation: Helps you experiment with different coffee brewing methods.
  • This is because you can measure the exact amount of coffee & water you’re using, you can adjust the ratio to find what’s best.
• Less waste: A coffee scale can help you to reduce coffee waste.

If you are serious about making great-tasting coffee, a coffee scale is a worthwhile investment. It can help you to achieve consistent results and better flavor.

But how are they different from kitchen scales?

Coffee Scale vs. Kitchen Scale

Coffee and kitchen scales measure weight, but they have some differences.

Manufacturers designed coffee scales to have more accuracy than kitchen scales. They typically have a resolution of 0.1 grams. Meaning they can measure small weight changes.

Weight distribution is essential for coffee brewing, as the coffee-to-water ratio is one of the most critical factors in determining the taste of the coffee.

Kitchen scales aren’t as accurate as coffee scales. They typically have a resolution of 1 gram or more. This is sufficient for most kitchen tasks like measuring flour and sugar. But it’s not as precise as what’s needed for coffee brewing.

Coffee scales are also often smaller and more portable than kitchen scales. This is because they need to fit on a countertop during coffee brewing. Kitchen scales are typically larger and more bulky.

Coffee scales may also have additional features for coffee brewing, such as a timer. Such a feature can help you time espresso shots and pouring techniques. Kitchen scales typically don’t have these additional features.

Now that you know the differences, learn when to use a coffee scale.

When Should I Use a Coffee Scale?

You should use a coffee scale whenever brewing coffee.

Here are some of the brewing methods where using a coffee scale is essential:

• Espresso: Concentrated coffee beverage that is made by forcing hot water through finely-ground coffee beans.
  • The coffee-to-water ratio for espresso is very specific, & it is important to use a scale to get it right.
• Pour over: A method of brewing coffee where you pour hot water over ground coffee beans in a filter.
• French press: A method of brewing coffee where you steep ground coffee beans in hot water for a few minutes.

You may not need a coffee scale if you use a coffee maker. However, if you use a manual brewing method, a coffee scale is essential for getting the best possible results.

Learn how to choose the best scale for measuring coffee.

Coffee Scale Buying Guide

Here are some of the factors to consider when buying a coffee scale:

• Accuracy: Should have accuracy of at least 0.1 grams.
  • This will ensure that you are measuring the correct amount of coffee & water.
• Durability: Should withstand the rigors of coffee brewing.
  • This means that it should have a body made of sturdy materials, such as stainless steel.
• Features: Some coffee scales have additional features, such as a timer or a built-in timer.
• Portability: If you plan on taking your coffee scale with you when you travel, then you will want to choose a scale that’s lightweight & small.
• Price: Range in price from around $12 to $200.

Accuracy matters most with coffee scales since they’ll partially determine your coffee’s flavor and consistency. From there, the price will matter most to anyone on a budget. Otherwise, you’ll want to focus on features, portability, and durability.

What are the best scales for measuring coffee? Check out our recommendations.

Best Coffee Scale

Here are the best coffee scales that we recommend:

All these scales include timers for when making coffee. The TIMEMORE and Greater Goods devices also include waterproof pads. The pads prevent accidental scratches, water stains, and other things that could affect your scale’s surface.

The Black Mirror costs the most, but for good reason. Most folks have said they’ve gotten the most consistency, weight-wise, from this specific scale. If you’re a home barista who cares a lot about taste and consistency, opt for the TIMEMORE Black Mirror.

Entry-level home baristas on a budget should stick to the Weightman. Those with a bit of extra money should consider the Greater Goods scale. It’s a bit more consistent and has a higher price tag.

Conclusion

Coffee scales are the best way to measure coffee grounds for various coffee brewing methods and for making espresso. It’s more accurate than using spoons or kitchen scales. It’s a tremendous way to impact your drink’s taste without making too big of a dent in your wallet.

You’ll need a bean grinder for your coffee or espresso maker. Check out our recommendations for the best grinders.