10 Best Analog Food Scales 2025 in the United States

The Taylor Mechanical Kitchen Weighing Food Scale with Bowl is a reliable option for those who prefer analog scales. It has a capacity of up to 11 lbs (5 kilograms), which is suitable for most kitchen tasks. The scale measures in both grams and ounces, with 1-ounce and 50-gram increments, providing reasonable accuracy for everyday cooking needs. The large, easy-to-read 5-inch dial with red and black graphics makes it simple to quickly note measurements.

The scale's classic design with a polished stainless steel finish can enhance the look of any kitchen without adding clutter. Additionally, it is easy to clean; the stainless steel weighing bowl can be removed and washed with warm, soapy water. Durability is a key strength, as Taylor has over 150 years of experience in making kitchen measurement tools, and the scale can be recalibrated using the adjustment knob at its base.

A potential downside is the size and storage aspect; with dimensions of 8.27 x 8.86 x 10.24 inches and weighing 3.77 pounds, it may take up considerable counter space and might not be suitable for those with limited kitchen storage. Another consideration is that as an analog scale, it does not have a tare function, which could be a significant drawback for some users. This scale is best suited for individuals who prefer a traditional, no-fuss tool for general kitchen use and do not require highly precise measurements.

The San Jamar Ms Series Mechanical Dial Scale is a reliable choice for kitchens and restaurants, offering a capacity of 2 pounds (32 ounces). Its key strength lies in its accuracy, achieved through commercial-grade springs that do not require batteries. This makes it a consistent tool for measuring ingredients. The large, easy-to-read dial displays both imperial and metric units, which is convenient for diverse culinary needs.

The tare function is a significant advantage, allowing you to reset the scale to zero and measure multiple items in one container, streamlining your food preparation process. Durability is another plus, with its sturdy metal construction and non-slip rubber pads that provide stability and prevent accidents. Maintenance is straightforward, thanks to a panel on the underside of the scale for easy cleaning.

On the downside, the scale’s size (7.5 x 9 x 7.5 inches) and weight (3.4 pounds) might make it less convenient for those with limited counter space or who prefer a more portable option. Additionally, being an analog scale, it may not offer the precision that some digital scales provide. However, for those who prioritize durability, ease of use, and do not want to rely on batteries, the San Jamar Ms Series is a solid option.

The Tada 2 Pound Precise Portions Analog Food Scale is a solid choice for anyone who prefers a mechanical kitchen scale with a retro style. It can weigh ingredients up to 32 ounces (about 2 pounds), which fits most everyday cooking needs, and it is precise enough to measure small amounts down to 0.2 ounces, making it suitable for portion control. The tare function lets you reset the scale after adding each ingredient, which is very handy for measuring multiple items in the removable bowl. Speaking of the bowl, it’s easy to clean since it comes off, which helps keep the scale hygienic.

The build is sturdy thanks to its stainless steel body and shatter-proof dial cover, so it should last well in a busy kitchen. The dial is angled and has larger numbers, which improves readability compared to some other analog scales. On the downside, being an analog scale, it may not be as precise or convenient as digital models for users needing exact measurements every time. It’s also slightly bulky at just over 9 inches in each dimension and weighs almost 2 pounds, so storage could be a consideration if space is tight.

This scale is well suited for home cooks who want a dependable, straightforward mechanical scale with a classic look and decent accuracy.