Coffee is one of the few things in the kitchen that gets better the moment you start weighing it. A scoop of beans can vary a lot depending on the roast and the grind, while 20 grams is always 20 grams. A coffee scale gives you that number, and the good ones add a timer so you can repeat the same brew tomorrow.
A plain kitchen scale can do part of this job, but it is often too slow and too coarse for a thin stream of water. This guide explains what a coffee scale adds, then names eight scales from Timemore, Fellow, Hario, Greater Goods and others, for pour-over and espresso.
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Quick verdict: which coffee scale to buy
For most home brewers, the best coffee scale is the TIMEMORE Black Mirror Basic 2.0: it has 0.1 gram steps, an auto timer and flow rate on one screen, and a related model won the America’s Test Kitchen review. If you want guided ratios and a premium build, choose the Fellow Tally Pro. If you want something plain with no charging, the Hario V60 Drip Scale runs on AAA batteries.
The rest of this page explains why, and which of these suits the way you brew.
Five coffee scales side by side
Our five standout picks, one for each kind of brewer, with the specifications each maker or listing states. All eight scales are reviewed in full below.
| Scale | Best for | Capacity & readout | Key feature | Buy on Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|
TIMEMORE Black Mirror Basic 2.0Best overall
|
Daily pour-over and espresso | 2 kg, 0.1 g | Auto timer, flow rate | View on Amazon |
Fellow Tally ProBest premium
|
Brewers who want guidance | 2.5 kg, 0.1 g | Brew assist ratio mode | View on Amazon |
Hario V60 Drip ScaleBest on batteries
|
V60 owners who want simple | 2 kg, 0.1 g | Timer, 2 AAA batteries | View on Amazon |
Maestri House S3Best ratio helper
|
Ratio guidance on a plain scale | 3 kg, 0.1 g | Ratios 1:1 to 1:18, flow rate | View on Amazon |
BOOKOO Themis MiniBest for espresso
|
Espresso drip trays | 1 kg, 0.1 g | 0.1 g/s flow tracking, Bluetooth | View on Amazon |
Product images from Amazon. Capacities and features are as stated by each maker or listing; check the listing before you buy.
Our picks for the best coffee scale
We list these roughly in order of how many home brewers each one suits. The first four are the safest choices for pour-over, and the last few serve narrower needs.
1. TIMEMORE Black Mirror Basic 2.0 – Timer and Flow Rate Together
The Black Mirror line is the one coffee reviewers keep coming back to. America’s Test Kitchen made the Black Mirror Basic Plus, a related model in this family, its top pick among precision coffee scales, calling it accurate, sensitive, sturdy and easy to use. A Tom’s Guide writer has singled out the Basic 2 as a budget choice for pour-over, in part because the platform is large enough for big brewers such as a Chemex.
The Basic 2.0 reads in 0.1 gram steps up to 2 kilograms. It shows the timer and the flow rate at the same time, so you can see how fast you are pouring and slow down if you need to. The auto timer starts when the weight changes, which saves you a button press with a kettle in your hand.
A built-in 1,600 mAh battery charges through USB-C, and the removable silicone pad grips your server and protects the top. The newer Basic 3 is on our sourdough scale guide if you want a thinner scale with more modes.
Why we like it
- Auto timer starts when weight changes
- Flow rate shows on its own, apart from the timer
- 0.1 g steps up to 2 kg
- USB-C charging
- A related model was the America’s Test Kitchen winner
Key specifications
| Model | TM0056 |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2,000 g |
| Readout | 0.1 g |
| Timer | Auto |
| Brew help | Flow rate |
| Power | Rechargeable, USB-C, 1,600 mAh |
| Size | 15.24 x 13.02 x 2.54 cm |
| Surface protection | Removable silicone pad |
Why we recommend it
Buy this if you brew most days and want one scale that handles pour-over and a basic espresso routine with no fuss.
Skip it if you never watch flow rate and would rather have a scale with no charging at all. The Hario below runs on AAA batteries.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Large enough for most drippers
- Auto timer
- Rechargeable
Cons
- Too wide for many espresso drip trays
- Listing does not state water protection for this version
- No ratio guide
2. Fellow Tally Pro – Guided Ratios, Glass Top
The Tally Pro is the scale for a coffee setup where looks count as much as function. You choose your water-to-coffee ratio and follow the on-screen target to the last gram, so you can skip the math. Two other weighing modes cover beans and baking.
The listing gives a 2,500 gram capacity, 0.1 gram accuracy, an OLED display and a metal dial. The platform is 7 by 5.9 inches with a removable weigh pan, and a full battery lasts up to 13 hours of weighing.
CNN Underscored named it a top pick for coffee enthusiasts and found it the most responsive scale in its group. Tom’s Guide called it one of the prettiest scales it had used, and also said it is expensive and lacks some of the features a premium scale should have.
Why we like it
- Guided ratio brewing on the screen
- 2,500 g capacity for large brews
- Removable weigh pan
- Praised for fast response by CNN Underscored
Key specifications
| Model | Tally Pro Precision Scale |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2,500 g |
| Readout | 0.1 g |
| Timer | Yes |
| Brew help | Guided ratio mode |
| Power | Rechargeable, up to 13 hours |
| Size | 7 x 5.9 x 1.3 in |
| Surface protection | Removable weigh pan |
Why we recommend it
Buy this if the scale lives on the counter next to a matching kettle and you want it to walk you through the brew.
Skip it if your main goal is value. Tom’s Guide found it pricey for what it adds, and the Timemore covers the basics.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Fast response, per CNN Underscored
- Ratio guidance
- 2.5 kg capacity
Cons
- Expensive, per Tom’s Guide
- Too large for most espresso drip trays
- Tom’s Guide says it lacks some premium features
3. Hario V60 Drip Scale – Simple, and Runs on AAA
If you already own a V60, this is the obvious partner. It has a timer, 0.1 gram steps and little else, and it runs on two AAA batteries, so you never have to think about charging. Auto-off comes on after 5 minutes, and it does not activate while the timer runs.
America’s Test Kitchen rated the Hario V60 Drip Coffee Scale as Recommended, with responsive buttons and clear digits. It also found the scale about 0.2 gram off target, with a slow start and a lag that can cause over-pouring, and it noted that the raised platform traps coffee grounds. Tom’s Guide praised its accuracy and large pad for manual pour-over.
This is the white version of the black Hario on our kitchen scale guide. We list it here because on this page it answers a different question, namely the simplest scale for pour-over.
Why we like it
- Replaceable AAA batteries
- Auto-off waits while the timer runs
- Rated Recommended by America’s Test Kitchen
- Tom’s Guide praised its accuracy for pour-over
Key specifications
| Model | V60 Drip Coffee Scale |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2,000 g |
| Readout | 0.1 g |
| Timer | Manual |
| Brew help | None |
| Power | 2 AAA batteries |
| Size | 7.4 x 4.7 x 1.1 in |
| Surface protection | Not stated |
Why we recommend it
Buy this if you brew pour-over only and want a plain scale from the maker of the dripper.
Skip it if you dislike small lags or want an auto timer. The Timemore is quicker to work with.
Pros and cons
Pros
- No charging
- Simple controls
- Matches V60 gear
Cons
- Slow start and some lag, per America’s Test Kitchen
- Raised platform traps grounds
- Too large for many espresso drip trays
4. Greater Goods Coffee Scale with Timer – Large Platform, Wipe-Clean Cover
This scale gives you a wide weighing surface, 5.25 by 5.25 inches, and a capacity of 6.6 pounds, which leaves room for a big dripper and a full server. The heat-resistant silicone cover is dishwasher safe, and the dual-color screen keeps weight and time apart.
The timer counts up and down, and six units cover grams, milliliters, ounces and more. It runs on three AAA batteries, which are included, and carries a five-year warranty with support from a St. Louis team.
This is the Stone Blue color of the model on our sourdough scale guide. It earns a place here because the wide top and silicone cover suit pour-over. A note on safety: CPSC recall 25-111 in 2025 covered other Greater Goods kitchen scales with coin batteries. This model, 0591, is not on the recall’s model list, and it uses AAA batteries.
Why we like it
- 5.25-inch square weighing surface
- Dishwasher-safe silicone cover
- Count-up and count-down timer
- Five-year warranty
Key specifications
| Model | 0591 |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 6.6 lb (about 3 kg) |
| Readout | 0.1 g |
| Timer | Count-up, count-down |
| Brew help | None |
| Power | 3 AAA batteries, included |
| Size | 5.2 x 7.63 x 1.1 in |
| Surface protection | Silicone cover, dishwasher safe |
Why we recommend it
Buy this if you brew large batches and want a wide, easily cleaned surface with a long warranty.
Skip it if you want auto timing or flow rate. This scale keeps things manual.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Wide platform
- Long warranty
- Removable cover cleans easily
Cons
- No auto timer
- No flow rate
- Too large for espresso machines
5. Maestri House S3 – Ratios Up to 1:18
Set a ratio from 1:1 to 1:18 and the S3 works out your target water weight, then beeps when you get there. That is the same idea as the Fellow’s guided mode, in a plainer matte body. It has three modes, an auto timer for pour-over, an auto timer for espresso and standard weighing, and it shows flow rate in real time.
The listing gives 0.1 gram steps up to 3 kilograms, USB-C charging and up to 90 days of use per charge. The display panel carries an IPX4 rating against splashes, and a silicone pad protects the top from hot servers.
We searched for an independent accuracy test of Maestri House scales and found only affiliate roundups that repeat the specifications, so this pick rests on the listing.
Why we like it
- Ratio target with a beep
- Real-time flow rate
- 3 kg capacity
- IPX4 display panel, per the listing
Key specifications
| Model | MHCS04 |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 3,000 g |
| Readout | 0.1 g |
| Timer | Auto, 3 modes |
| Brew help | Ratios 1:1 to 1:18, flow rate |
| Power | Rechargeable, USB-C, 500 mAh |
| Size | Not stated |
| Surface protection | IPX4 display, silicone pad |
Why we recommend it
Buy this if you want the ratio math done for you and do not need a premium body.
Skip it if independent accuracy checks matter to you. Choose the Hario or the Timemore line, which America’s Test Kitchen has covered.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Ratio and flow features together
- Long charge life, per the listing
- Large capacity
Cons
- We found no independent accuracy test
- Touch controls only, per the listing
- Rests on the listing alone
6. Brewista Smart Coffee Scale III – Five Modes, Palm Size
Brewista’s third-generation smart scale fits in your palm, weighs about 200 grams and still reads to 0.1 gram up to 2 kilograms. Five modes switch between manual and automatic operation, with one for pour-over and two for espresso.
It charges by USB, and the box includes a protective cover and a silicone pad. Auto tare and an auto timer take over the button presses, which suits a small coffee corner.
America’s Test Kitchen reviewed a different model, the Brewista Ratio, and recommended it with reservations. The auto mode worked well, but the coded modes needed the manual and the small screen and orange backlight annoyed the reviewers. That is not a verdict on this scale, though it is a fair thing to check before you buy. This pick rests on the listing and the maker’s details.
Why we like it
- Small enough to pack
- Five modes for pour-over and espresso
- Auto tare and auto timer
- Cover and silicone pad included
Key specifications
| Model | BSSRB3 |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2,000 g |
| Readout | 0.1 g |
| Timer | Auto and manual |
| Brew help | 5 modes |
| Power | Rechargeable, USB |
| Size | Not stated; about 200 g in weight |
| Surface protection | Protective cover, silicone pad |
Why we recommend it
Buy this if your coffee corner is tight, or you switch between espresso and pour-over and want a scale that fits both.
Skip it if you dislike learning numbered modes. A plain timer scale is easier to live with.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Compact and light
- Works for espresso and pour-over
- Rechargeable
Cons
- Modes take some learning
- Small top for a large server
- Rests on the listing alone
7. WACACO Exagram Pro – Packs Into Its Own Box
Wacaco is known for portable coffee gear, and the Exagram Pro follows that idea. The carrying box protects it in a bag and, at home, can raise the scale under an espresso portafilter. Inside it is a pocket-sized scale reading from 0.1 gram to 2 kilograms.
The listing describes a pour-over ratio program, a step-by-step recipe mode and an auto-detect feature, plus a mute switch. A 700 mAh battery gives up to 24 hours of use on a USB-C charge, and a physical power switch prevents it from turning on in your bag.
This pick rests on the listing and the maker’s details. Check the size of your server against the scale before you buy, because a small top is the usual price of a travel scale.
Why we like it
- Sturdy box for travel
- Physical power-off switch
- Pour-over ratio program
- Up to 24 hours per charge, per the listing
Key specifications
| Model | Exagram Pro |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 2,000 g |
| Readout | 0.1 g |
| Timer | Auto |
| Brew help | Ratio program, recipe mode |
| Power | Rechargeable, USB-C, 700 mAh |
| Size | Not stated |
| Surface protection | Built-in silicone pad |
Why we recommend it
Buy this if you take coffee gear on the road or to the office.
Skip it if the scale never leaves your counter. You would pay for portability you will not use.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Protective box
- Power switch prevents accidental starts
- Ratio program
Cons
- Small top for a large server
- Rests on the listing alone
- Size not stated on the listing
8. BOOKOO Themis Mini – Fits Under the Machine
This is the one espresso-first pick on the page, and you should read the capacity first: 1,000 grams. That is plenty for a shot and for many small brews, but it falls short of a full Chemex. In exchange you get a compact scale that the maker says fits neatly under an espresso machine.
It reads to 0.1 gram with 0.1 gram per second flow tracking, offers three brewing modes, and connects by Bluetooth to compatible apps. The 500 mAh battery gives up to 45 days of everyday use, per the listing.
America’s Test Kitchen called most app features on coffee scales frivolous, and for most home brewers the Bluetooth link will not matter. Treat it as a bonus. This pick rests on the listing and the maker’s details.
Why we like it
- Fits under espresso machines
- 0.1 g per second flow tracking
- Up to 45 days per charge, per the listing
- Water-resistant front surface
Key specifications
| Model | BOOKOO-SCALE |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 1,000 g |
| Readout | 0.1 g |
| Timer | Yes, 3 modes |
| Brew help | Flow tracking, Bluetooth |
| Power | Rechargeable, USB-C, 500 mAh |
| Size | 3.15 x 0.59 in, per the listing |
| Surface protection | Water-resistant front |
Why we recommend it
Buy this if espresso is your main brew and space under the portafilter is tight.
Skip it if you brew large pour-over batches. The 1 kg limit is too low for a full server of water.
Pros and cons
Pros
- Compact
- Flow tracking for shots
- Long charge life, per the listing
Cons
- Only 1 kg capacity
- Bluetooth adds little for most brewers
- Rests on the listing alone
How to choose a coffee scale
Most scales on this page read to 0.1 gram, so that number alone will not separate them. The differences that matter show up during the brew.
1. Speed and accuracy
America’s Test Kitchen treated an error of 0.5 gram as the point where a scale could affect the brew, and preferred scales that were ready in under 2 seconds. The slowest it looked at took almost 5. A slow scale makes you over-pour, because the number on the screen is behind the water in the cup.
2. Timer style
A manual timer works fine, but you start it with a kettle in your other hand. An auto timer starts with the first drops, which is easier if you brew half asleep. Bloom and pour timing is where a timer earns its place, so choose the style you will really use.
3. Size and capacity
Add up your dripper, your server, your coffee and your water. A coffee scale for pour over should have room to spare, which is why we favor 2 kilograms or more for a large server. For espresso, measure the height under your portafilter and the width of the drip tray, since most larger scales will not fit there.
4. Brew help
Flow rate shows how fast you are pouring, and ratio modes do the math for you. For example, 20 grams of coffee at a 1:16 ratio calls for 320 grams of water. Both features are useful while you are learning, and neither is required. America’s Test Kitchen called most app features frivolous, so do not pay extra for Bluetooth alone.
5. Heat, water and cleaning
Silicone mats protect the electronics from hot servers and keep glassware from sliding. America’s Test Kitchen marked down raised platforms that trap coffee grounds, so look for a flat top or a removable pad. Keep the charging port dry if your scale has one.
6. Power
Rechargeable scales are tidy, but one day the battery will wear out or run flat just before you brew. AAA models take a fresh pair and carry on. Pick whichever annoyance you can live with.
How we picked these eight scales
We read the America’s Test Kitchen review of precision coffee scales, what Tom’s Guide and CNN Underscored have published, and the makers’ listings on Amazon. The Brewista, WACACO and BOOKOO entries rest on the listing and the maker’s details. For Maestri House, we searched for an independent accuracy check and did not find one. We have not used these scales ourselves.
We kept to brands that make coffee gear or scales, checked that each one was in stock on Amazon when we wrote this, and searched the saferproducts.gov recall database for each brand. Greater Goods was the only one with a related recall, and the entry above explains it. We skipped the kitchen scales on our kitchen scale guide, which suit recipes better than a slow pour. Two picks are other colors of scales on our kitchen scale pages, the white Hario and the Stone Blue Greater Goods, and each entry says why.
Coffee scale questions, answered
Do I need a coffee scale?
Not to make good coffee, but it is the simplest way to make the same good coffee twice. It replaces guesswork about scoops with a number you can repeat.
What is the best coffee scale for pour over?
We would start with the TIMEMORE Black Mirror Basic 2.0 for its auto timer and flow rate. The Hario V60 Drip Scale is the plainer option. Pair either one with a gooseneck kettle for better control of your pour.
Can I use a kitchen scale for coffee?
Yes, for weighing beans. For pouring, many kitchen scales read in steps of a gram and respond more slowly, and they have no timer. If you already own a 0.1 gram scale that reacts quickly, try it before you buy another.
What is the difference between a coffee scale and an espresso scale?
Espresso scales are smaller so they fit on a drip tray, and they often time the shot automatically. Pour-over scales have larger tops and more capacity. A 2 kg compact like the Brewista can do both, within limits.
How much coffee and water should I use?
Start with a ratio near 1:16 and adjust to taste. A stronger cup needs less water and a lighter cup needs more. Your grind also matters, and our guide to burr grinders for pour-over covers that step.
Our last word on coffee scales
Buy the TIMEMORE Black Mirror Basic 2.0 if you want one scale for daily brewing. Choose the Fellow Tally Pro for guided ratios and design, the Hario for a plain battery scale, and the Greater Goods for a wide top. The Maestri House, Brewista, WACACO and BOOKOO each suit a narrower need.
For the rest of the routine, see our guide to the best pour-over coffee makers, or French press alternatives if you want a different brew. And if you would rather let someone else make the coffee, Julia’s is at 5402 N Highway 6 in Houston. See the menu and call to order.