Food scales have quietly become one of the most essential—and often overlooked—tools in modern kitchens. Whether you’re tracking macros for fitness goals, portioning ingredients for baking, or simply trying to eat more mindfully, a reliable food scale can make all the difference. But with so many options flooding the market, especially at budget-friendly price points, it’s easy to get overwhelmed. That’s where this guide comes in.
In this comprehensive buying guide, we’re pitting two of the most popular affordable food scale brands head-to-head: Etekcity and Ozeri. Both companies have built solid reputations for delivering high-value kitchen gadgets without breaking the bank. But which one truly offers the best cheap food scale for your needs? We’ll break down every critical factor—from accuracy and build quality to features and long-term reliability—so you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re a home cook, a meal prepper, or someone just starting their wellness journey, this guide will equip you with everything you need to know.
The market for budget food scales has exploded in recent years, driven by growing interest in health-conscious cooking, precise baking, and sustainable living. Consumers no longer need to spend $50 or more to get a functional, accurate scale. Brands like Etekcity and Ozeri have stepped up, offering feature-packed models under $30 that rival much pricier competitors. However, not all “cheap” scales are created equal. Some sacrifice durability for low cost, while others skimp on calibration or lack essential features like tare function or unit switching. Our goal is to cut through the noise and help you identify which brand—and which specific model—delivers the best balance of price, performance, and practicality.
What to Look for When Buying a Food Scale
1. Accuracy and Precision
When it comes to food scales, accuracy isn’t just a nice-to-have—it’s non-negotiable. A scale that consistently reads 5 grams high or low can ruin a recipe, skew your nutrition tracking, or lead to overeating. Look for scales with a resolution of at least 1 gram (or 0.1 oz), especially if you’re measuring small quantities like spices, coffee, or protein powder. High-end models may offer 0.1g precision, but for most home users, 1g is sufficient.
Calibration is equally important. Over time, even the best scales can drift due to temperature changes, battery fluctuations, or physical shock. Many Etekcity and Ozeri models include auto-calibration features or allow manual recalibration using standard weights. Always check user reviews for mentions of long-term accuracy—some budget scales start strong but lose precision after a few months.
2. Capacity and Increment Range
Food scales come in various capacities, typically ranging from 2kg (4.4 lbs) to 10kg (22 lbs). For most home cooks, a 5kg capacity is ideal—it handles everything from a single egg to a large roast. However, if you frequently cook in bulk or bake large batches, consider a higher-capacity model.
Equally important is the increment range—the smallest weight the scale can detect. A scale with 1g increments is fine for general use, but if you’re into specialty baking (like macarons or bread), you’ll want finer resolution. Etekcity’s Digital Kitchen Scale, for example, offers 1g increments up to 5kg, while some Ozeri models go down to 0.1g for ultra-precise measurements. Match the capacity and increment to your typical use case to avoid frustration.
3. Build Quality and Durability
Cheap doesn’t have to mean flimsy—but unfortunately, many budget scales cut corners on materials. Look for scales with stainless steel platforms, which are easy to clean, resistant to stains, and less likely to warp over time. Plastic bases should feel sturdy, not creaky or lightweight. Check hinge mechanisms (if the platform lifts) and button responsiveness.
Both Etekcity and Ozeri use stainless steel in their top models, but some entry-level versions feature plastic platforms. While these are lighter and cheaper, they’re more prone to scratches and may not distribute weight evenly. Also, consider water resistance. While no food scale is fully waterproof, IPX-rated models (like certain Etekcity units with IPX4 splash resistance) can handle minor spills—a real advantage in busy kitchens.
4. Features and Functionality
Modern food scales pack surprising functionality into compact designs. The must-have feature is the tare function, which lets you zero out the weight of a container so you only measure the contents. Almost all Etekcity and Ozeri scales include this, but double-check—it’s a dealbreaker if missing.
Other useful features include:
– Unit conversion (grams, ounces, pounds, milliliters, etc.)
– Backlit LCD display for low-light visibility
– Auto-off to conserve battery life
– Counting function (for nuts, pills, or small items)
– Timer or clock (rare but handy)
Ozeri often includes more “smart” features, like touch-sensitive buttons and multi-unit displays, while Etekcity focuses on simplicity and reliability. Decide which extras matter to you—don’t pay for features you won’t use.
5. Ease of Use and Display Readability
A scale can be accurate and durable, but if it’s hard to read or operate, it’s not worth buying. The display should be large, bright, and positioned so you can see it while placing items on the platform. Etekcity scales typically feature bold, high-contrast digits, while Ozeri models often have sleeker, backlit screens that look modern but can be harder to read in direct sunlight.
Button layout matters too. Tactile, well-spaced buttons are easier to press with wet or flour-dusted fingers. Avoid scales with overly sensitive touch controls that activate accidentally. Also, consider how easy it is to switch units—some scales require holding a button for seconds, which gets annoying fast.
6. Power Source and Battery Life
Most budget food scales run on AAA or AA batteries. Etekcity models commonly use two AAA batteries, while Ozeri often opts for two AA. Battery life varies widely—from 6 months to over 2 years—depending on usage and auto-off timing. Scales with aggressive auto-off (e.g., shutting down after 60 seconds of inactivity) save power but may frustrate during multi-step recipes.
Rechargeable scales are rare in this price range, but if sustainability is a priority, look for models compatible with rechargeable NiMH batteries. Also, check if the scale includes a low-battery indicator—there’s nothing worse than your scale dying mid-recipe.
7. Brand Reputation and Customer Support
Etekcity and Ozeri are both well-established in the budget electronics space. Etekcity, owned by the larger Vesync corporation, emphasizes reliability and customer service, often offering responsive support via email and live chat. Ozeri, known for its sleek designs and innovative features, has a strong following among tech-savvy home cooks.
However, brand reputation isn’t everything. Read recent reviews (within the last 6–12 months) to catch any quality control issues or design changes. Some users report that Ozeri’s newer models have thinner plastic bases compared to older versions, while Etekcity has maintained consistent build quality across generations.
8. Warranty and Return Policy
A good warranty signals confidence in a product’s durability. Most Etekcity scales come with a 1–2 year limited warranty, while Ozeri typically offers 1 year. Check what’s covered—does it include accidental damage or just manufacturing defects? Also, verify the return window: Amazon and major retailers usually allow 30-day returns, but third-party sellers may have stricter policies.
Different Types of Food Scales
Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mistake: Prioritizing Price Over Accuracy
Why it’s bad: The cheapest scale might save you $5 upfront, but if it’s inaccurate, you’ll waste ingredients, ruin recipes, and eventually replace it—costing more in the long run.
What to do instead: Spend a little more ($20–$25) for a model with verified accuracy and good reviews. Etekcity and Ozeri both offer reliable options in this range.
❌ Mistake: Ignoring the Tare Function
Why it’s bad: Without tare, you’re stuck manually subtracting container weight, which is tedious and error-prone—especially with multiple ingredients.
What to do instead: Confirm the scale has a dedicated tare button. Test it in-store or read reviews mentioning its responsiveness.
❌ Mistake: Overlooking Platform Material
Why it’s bad: Plastic platforms scratch easily, harbor bacteria, and may not sit flat on countertops, causing uneven readings.
What to do instead: Choose stainless steel whenever possible. It’s hygienic, durable, and provides a stable weighing surface.
❌ Mistake: Assuming All “Digital” Scales Are Equal
Why it’s bad: Some ultra-cheap digital scales use low-quality load cells that degrade quickly or lack proper calibration.
What to do instead: Stick to reputable brands like Etekcity or Ozeri, and avoid no-name Amazon sellers with suspiciously low prices.
❌ Mistake: Not Checking Unit Options
Why it’s bad: If you follow international recipes, you’ll need grams, ounces, and possibly milliliters. A scale that only shows pounds and ounces limits your flexibility.
What to do instead: Ensure the scale supports at least grams, ounces, pounds, and milliliters (for liquids).
❌ Mistake: Forgetting About Battery Access
Why it’s bad: Some scales have batteries buried under screws or sealed compartments, making replacement a hassle.
What to do instead: Look for models with easy-access battery compartments—preferably tool-free.
❌ Mistake: Buying Without Reading Recent Reviews
Why it’s bad: Product quality can change between manufacturing batches. A 5-star scale from 2020 might have quality issues in 2026.
What to do instead: Focus on reviews from the past 6–12 months. Look for patterns in complaints (e.g., “display died after 3 months”).
Budget Guidelines: How Much Should You Spend?
– Entry-Level ($10–$18): What to expect… Basic functionality with potential compromises. These scales often have plastic platforms, limited unit options, and shorter battery life. Accuracy may vary. Best for occasional use or as a backup. Avoid unless you’re on an extremely tight budget.
– Mid-Range ($19–$28): Sweet spot for most buyers… This is where Etekcity and Ozeri shine. You’ll get stainless steel platforms, reliable 1g accuracy, full unit conversion, responsive tare, and decent build quality. Ideal for daily cooking, baking, and meal prep. Most users should aim here.
– Premium ($29–$40): For enthusiasts and professionals… Higher precision (0.1g), larger capacities (up to 10kg), advanced features like counting mode or app connectivity, and enhanced durability. Great for serious bakers, coffee roasters, or fitness trackers who demand consistency.
– Luxury ($40+): Top-tier features… Includes smart connectivity, multi-user profiles, nutritional databases, and industrial-grade components. Overkill for most home cooks, but valuable for commercial kitchens or tech-focused users.
Expert Tips for Getting the Best Deal
– Wait for seasonal sales: Black Friday, Prime Day, and back-to-school periods often bring 20–30% discounts on kitchen gadgets. Sign up for deal alerts from Amazon, Walmart, or the brand’s newsletter.
– Buy directly from the manufacturer: Etekcity and Ozeri occasionally offer exclusive bundles or extended warranties on their websites. You might also get faster shipping or better return terms.
– Check refurbished or open-box deals: These are often indistinguishable from new units but cost 15–25% less. Ensure they come with a warranty.
– Compare total cost of ownership: Factor in battery replacement frequency. A scale that uses common AAA batteries is cheaper long-term than one requiring specialty cells.
– Test before committing: If buying in-store, place a known weight (like a can of soup) on the scale to verify accuracy. At home, test with coins or water.
– Read the fine print on warranties: Some brands require original packaging for returns. Keep your box for at least 30 days.
– Use cashback apps: Rakuten, Honey, or Capital One Shopping can give you 2–5% back on kitchen purchases—free money!
– Consider multi-packs: If you need scales for multiple locations (kitchen, pantry, office), buying a 2-pack often saves 10–15%.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Are Etekcity and Ozeri scales accurate?
A: Yes—when new and properly calibrated. Both brands consistently deliver ±1g accuracy in independent tests, which is sufficient for cooking and baking. However, accuracy can drift over time, so periodic testing with known weights is recommended.
Q: Can I weigh liquids on these scales?
A: Absolutely. Most Etekcity and Ozeri models include a milliliter (mL) mode that assumes water density (1g = 1mL). For other liquids like oil or honey, results may vary slightly due to density differences, but it’s close enough for most recipes.
Q: Do these scales work with bowls and containers?
A: Yes, thanks to the tare function. Place your empty bowl on the scale, press tare, and add ingredients. The display will show only the net weight of the contents.
Q: How do I clean my food scale?
A: Wipe the stainless steel platform with a damp cloth and mild detergent. Avoid submerging the unit or using abrasive cleaners. For plastic parts, use a soft sponge. Never put the scale in the dishwasher.
Q: What happens if my scale stops working?
A: First, replace the batteries—low power can cause erratic behavior. If that doesn’t help, check if it’s still under warranty. Both Etekcity and Ozeri offer replacement or refund options for defective units.
Q: Can I use these scales for weighing jewelry or supplements?
A: Only if they offer 0.1g precision. Basic models with 1g increments aren’t suitable for very small items like pills or gold flakes. Look for Ozeri’s high-precision lines or Etekcity’s 0.1g variants.
Q: Are these scales safe for food contact?
A: Yes. The stainless steel platforms are food-safe and non-reactive. Just ensure you clean them regularly to prevent cross-contamination.
Q: Do they come with a manual?
A: Most include a quick-start guide. Full manuals are usually available as PDFs on the brand’s website—handy if you lose the paper version.
Q: Can I switch between metric and imperial units?
A: Yes. All mainstream Etekcity and Ozeri scales support grams, ounces, pounds, and often kilograms and milliliters. Unit switching is typically done via a dedicated button.
Q: How long do the batteries last?
A: With typical use (30 minutes per week), expect 12–24 months for AAA/AA batteries. Scales with aggressive auto-off conserve power best.
Our Final Recommendations
– Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers: Etekcity Digital Kitchen Scale (5kg, 1g) – At around $19, it delivers exceptional value with a stainless steel platform, reliable accuracy, and simple operation. Perfect for everyday cooking without frills.
– Best Overall Value: Ozeri Pronto Digital Multifunction Kitchen Scale – Priced at $24–$28, it offers 0.1g precision, a sleek design, responsive touch buttons, and excellent build quality. Ideal for bakers and precision-focused cooks.
– Best Premium Option: Etekcity Food Scale with Bowl (7kg, 0.1g) – For $35, you get a larger capacity, ultra-fine resolution, included mixing bowl, and IPX4 splash resistance. Great for serious home chefs.
– Best for Beginners: Ozeri Touchless Digital Kitchen Scale – Its intuitive interface, large display, and foolproof tare function make it perfect for those new to using scales. No learning curve required.
– Best for Advanced Users: Etekcity Smart Food Scale (Bluetooth) – At $45, it syncs with nutrition apps, tracks macros, and stores data for multiple users. Best for fitness enthusiasts and tech-savvy cooks.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing between Etekcity and Ozeri doesn’t have to be overwhelming. Both brands offer excellent cheap food scales that punch well above their weight class. Your decision should hinge on your specific needs: Do you prioritize rock-solid reliability (Etekcity) or sleek design with extra features (Ozeri)? Are you a casual cook or a precision baker? By focusing on accuracy, build quality, and essential features like tare and unit conversion, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and find a scale that serves you well for years.
Remember, the best food scale isn’t necessarily the cheapest or the most feature-rich—it’s the one that fits seamlessly into your kitchen routine and helps you achieve your culinary goals. Whether you’re measuring flour for sourdough or tracking protein intake, investing in a dependable scale is one of the smartest moves you can make. So take your time, compare your options, and choose wisely. Your future self—and your taste buds—will thank you.