Purchasing a weight scale can be a daunting task. Take into consideration the accuracy of the scale, its ability to track your progress, its power source and durability. Your final decision should be based on your needs. If you're losing weight, you may base your decision heavily on tracking your progress. However, when you're maintaining your weight, accuracy may play a bigger role.
Accuracy of Measurement
There are two types of scales for home use: the spring and the balance. The spring scale relies on gravity and tension to determine measurement. The balance uses a beam that rests on a fulcrum and two or more sliding weights. The balance scale is more accurate than the spring scale because it relies on known weight measurements rather than gravity, which can vary depending on location.
Tracking Your Progress
As technology continues to improve, weight scales are now capable of tracking progress. Weekly weigh-ins usually associated with weight-loss programs can now be logged by multiple users on one scale. A Weight Watchers scale remembers your last five weigh-ins and a scale through Health O Meter can remember the weigh-ins of two users and will calculate the difference week after week. There are even scales on the market that can track your body-fat percentage and hydration percentages.
Power Source
Dial-display spring and balance scales don't require a power source and are thus the most energy-efficient scales. Long-life lithium batteries are the usual power source of digital weight scales and can last anywhere from one to five years, depending on frequency of use. Some digital scales come with AC adapters convenient for bathroom use, while others are solar powered and can be used anywhere light is present. No matter what power source your scale uses, it take won't take a lot of energy. Nevertheless, bear in mind that lithium batteries can be hard to find when they do run out.
Durability
The most durable scales are balance scales that don't use power sources. The loss of battery life and the wear of power components in a scale can lessen its ability to last. However, digital scales seem to have longer manufacturer warranties as opposed to dial scales. This could be due to the higher prices of digital scales or their more rugged design. No matter whether you decide to purchase a spring or balance, digital or dial scale, remember to weigh your options according to your goals.
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