Pocket scales
| Weighing range [Max] in g | 50 |
|---|---|
| Digit increment [d] in g | 0,001 |
| Weighing range [Max] in g | 500 |
|---|---|
| Digit increment [d] in g | 0,1 |
Buy pocket scales online: Precision in your pocket
Pocket scales are designed to measure weights in the low-range category in a straightforward, space-saving and flexible manner. Whether you’re checking postage, weighing small parts for assembly or quality control, assessing precious metals or determining repeatable portions in the workshop: A well-chosen digital pocket scale provides you with a quick reference – even when you’re on the move. The key factor here is not so much the size of the unit as the right combination of weighing range, readability (scale division), stability and useful features such as tare and switchable weighing units.
Where are pocket scales used?
Pocket scales (often referred to as pocket-sized precision scales or scales for use on the go) are used wherever small samples, parts or portions need to be weighed, but a fixed weighing station is neither necessary nor possible.
Typical use cases and sectors
- Postal services & offices: Checking the weight of letters and small parcels, calculating postage, verifying the validity of returns (letter scales / pocket scales). Much like a pocket calculator, a pocket scale is quick to hand and can be passed around amongst colleagues.
- Crafts, assembly, service: Checking screws, seals, electronic components, solder, small parts or mixing components.
- Jewellery & Precious Metals: Weighing jewellery, coins and precious metal samples (gold scale). Here, units of measurement such as grams and, in some cases, carats (ct) are relevant.
- Laboratory-related activities & hobbies: Weighing small quantities of powders, granules or samples, e.g. in model-making, for recipes or in educational settings.
- Herbs & Botanicals: In trade and common parlance, a compact precision balance with high resolution is sometimes referred to as a ‘cannabis scale’. In practice, this usually involves the precise weighing of small portions of herbs or botanical products.
Important: If the weight is legally binding in determining price or quantity (e.g. sale by weight), the requirements of legal metrology generally apply. Calibrated scales are usually intended for this purpose – pocket scales are often not designed for it. If you’re unsure, just let us know briefly what you’ll be using it for, and we’ll work with you to clarify the correct classification.
What should you look out for when buying?
To ensure a pocket scale meets your everyday needs, it’s worth taking a quick look at the key criteria:
1. Weighing range (maximum weight): Choose a weighing range such that your typical weights fall comfortably within it. A common source of error is selecting a range that is too narrow and then accidentally overloading the scales. A little margin is advisable to ensure repeatable results.
2. Readability / Graduation (resolution): The graduation determines how finely the display resolves ‘step by step’. For very small samples, a finer graduation is helpful – though this also increases sensitivity to draughts, vibrations and temperature changes. An extremely fine display is of little use if the location where it is used is unstable.
3. Weighing units and unit switching: Check which units you actually need (e.g. g, oz, ct). Depending on the application, the ability to switch units is useful, for example when dealing with precious metals or international specifications.
4. Tare function and operating logic: A tare function is essential if you are weighing in pans, on paper or in small containers. Ensure the operation is easy to understand, with clearly labelled buttons and a display that remains easy to read even under workshop lighting.
5. Design: Hinged lid, weighing pan, protection whilst on the move: A hinged lid protects the weighing platform and display during transport and, depending on the model, can also serve as a small tray. Weighing pans are practical for fine bulk materials; they reduce contamination of the weighing platform.
6. Adjustment/calibration and suitable test weights: Many pocket scales feature an adjustment or calibration function (often via a ‘CAL’ mode). To ensure reliable results, you should know which adjustment weight or test weight is required and how to use it to set up the scale. A test weight that fits precisely is crucial: the scale can never be more accurate than the reference weight you use for adjustment.
7. Power supply and suitability for everyday use: Pocket scales are usually battery- or rechargeable battery-powered; depending on the application, an external connection (e.g. USB) may be useful. Also look out for features such as auto-off (to save energy) and a stable, non-slip base.
8. Operating environment: quiet, clean, external influences: precision balances are significantly affected by draughts, vibrations and electromagnetic interference. For repeatable measurements: ensure a firm, vibration-free surface; avoid having an open door directly next to the balance; keep the weighing pan clean; and place samples in the centre.
4.4 Buy a pocket scales from ESSMANN
In this category, you will find – depending on your requirements and the product name – the following, amongst other things:
- Pocket scales (compact, general-purpose)
- Digital pocket scales (with display, tare function, weighing units)
- Letter scales (for postage and dispatch weights in small formats)
- Gold scales (for jewellery/precious metal applications, often with suitable units)
- Cannabis scales (colloquial term for compact precision scales with high resolution)
Which variant is most suitable depends primarily on the weighing range, graduation, bowl/lid design and your working environment.