The kitchen scale has quietly evolved from a niche tool for bakers and dietitians into an essential appliance for home cooks, health-conscious individuals, and even meal prep enthusiasts. In today’s culinary landscape—where precision matters as much as flavor—a reliable digital kitchen scale can mean the difference between a perfectly risen loaf of sourdough and a dense, disappointing brick. Whether you’re portioning ingredients for a low-carb recipe, measuring coffee for your morning pour-over, or tracking macros for fitness goals, accuracy, ease of use, and durability are non-negotiable. With so many options flooding the market, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed by choices that look similar on the surface but differ dramatically in performance, build quality, and long-term value.
This comprehensive buying guide is designed to cut through the noise and help you make an informed decision—specifically by comparing two of the most popular and highly rated kitchen scales on the market: the OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Food Scale and the Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale. These models represent two distinct philosophies in kitchen scale design: one prioritizes premium materials and user-friendly ergonomics (OXO), while the other focuses on simplicity, affordability, and consistent performance (Escali). By the end of this guide, you’ll understand not only how these two scales stack up against each other but also what features truly matter based on your cooking style, budget, and expectations. We’ll dive deep into performance specs, real-world usability, durability, customer support, and more—so you can choose the scale that fits seamlessly into your kitchen routine.
The digital kitchen scale market has matured significantly over the past decade. Once dominated by clunky mechanical models or overly complex smart scales with apps and Bluetooth connectivity, today’s best options strike a balance between simplicity and functionality. Consumers now expect fast response times, high accuracy (±0.1g increments), tare functionality, multiple unit options (grams, ounces, pounds, milliliters), and easy-to-clean surfaces. At the same time, brands like OXO and Escali have carved out loyal followings by focusing on core reliability rather than gimmicks. OXO, known for its human-centered design philosophy, emphasizes comfort, visibility, and intuitive operation—often using soft-grip handles and large displays. Escali, on the other hand, has built a reputation for delivering no-frills, high-performance scales at accessible price points, favored by professional bakers and budget-savvy home cooks alike. This guide will help you navigate these differences and determine which brand aligns best with your needs.
What to Look for When Buying a Kitchen Scale
1. Accuracy & Precision
Accuracy is the single most important factor when choosing a kitchen scale. Even small deviations can ruin recipes—especially in baking, where ratios of flour, sugar, and leavening agents must be exact. Look for scales that offer increments of 0.1 grams, which is the gold standard for precision cooking. Both the OXO Good Grips and Escali Primo deliver on this front, consistently measuring within ±0.1g across their weight ranges. However, real-world testing shows that calibration drift over time can affect some models. High-quality load cells and stable internal components ensure long-term accuracy. Always check if the scale allows for manual calibration (some do via hidden buttons or sequences), as this extends its usable life.
2. Weight Capacity & Range
Most home kitchen scales offer a maximum capacity between 5 kg (11 lbs) and 11 kg (25 lbs). For everyday cooking and baking, a 5–6 kg range is usually sufficient. The OXO Good Grips scale maxes out at 5 kg (11 lbs), while the Escali Primo offers a slightly higher 6.6 kg (15 lbs) capacity. If you frequently cook large batches—like holiday roasts, bulk dough, or meal-prepped grains—the extra capacity of the Escali may be advantageous. However, higher capacity doesn’t always mean better performance at lower weights. Some scales lose accuracy below 20–50 grams when operating near their upper limit. Both OXO and Escali maintain consistent precision across their full range, but it’s worth noting that OXO’s smaller platform may feel limiting for larger bowls or containers.
3. Build Quality & Durability
A kitchen scale should withstand daily use, spills, and the occasional dropped utensil. The OXO Good Grips features a brushed stainless steel platform, which is highly resistant to scratches, stains, and corrosion. Its base is made of durable ABS plastic with a soft, non-slip grip—making it comfortable to handle and stable on countertops. The Escali Primo uses a tempered glass platform, which is sleek and easy to wipe clean but more prone to chipping or cracking if struck sharply. Its base is also plastic but lacks the ergonomic contouring of the OXO. In drop tests and long-term user reviews, the OXO consistently outperforms the Escali in durability, especially in households with kids or heavy cooking traffic. That said, both scales feel solid for their price points, and neither feels flimsy under normal use.
4. Display & Readability
A clear, backlit LCD screen is essential for reading measurements in low light or when the scale is placed under cabinets. The OXO Good Grips boasts a large, high-contrast display with bold numerals that are easy to read from a distance or awkward angles—ideal for tired eyes or quick glances during busy cooking sessions. The Escali Primo’s display is smaller and less bright, though still legible in most conditions. One notable advantage of the OXO is its angled display, which reduces neck strain when viewing from above. Additionally, OXO includes a “pull-out” display feature on some models (not on the standard Good Grips, but available in upgraded versions), allowing you to extend the screen away from the base for better visibility when using tall containers. For users with vision challenges or those who cook in dimly lit kitchens, this can be a game-changer.
5. Tare Functionality
The tare function—which resets the scale to zero after placing a container on it—is indispensable for efficient cooking. Both the OXO and Escali offer one-touch tare buttons that work reliably. However, the OXO’s button is larger and more tactile, making it easier to press with wet or flour-dusted fingers. The Escali’s tare button is smaller and flush with the surface, which some users find less responsive. More importantly, both scales retain the tare function even after turning off, meaning you can weigh multiple ingredients in the same bowl without re-zeroing. This “memory tare” feature is standard on premium models and greatly streamlines recipe workflows. Neither scale offers auto-tare (where the scale automatically zeros when a stable weight is detected), but manual tare is sufficient for most users.
6. Unit Options & Conversion
Flexibility in measurement units ensures compatibility with international recipes and personal preferences. The OXO Good Grips supports grams, ounces, pounds, and fluid ounces (for water-based liquids). The Escali Primo offers the same units plus milliliters—a useful addition for liquid ingredients like milk or oil. While both scales allow quick switching between units via a dedicated button, the OXO’s interface is slightly more intuitive, with clear labels and minimal button presses. Escali requires cycling through units sequentially, which can be annoying if you frequently switch between metric and imperial. For bakers following European recipes or health trackers using milliliters, the Escali’s extra unit could tip the scales in its favor.
7. Power Source & Battery Life
Most digital kitchen scales run on AAA or AA batteries, with auto-shutoff features to conserve power. The OXO Good Grips uses four AAA batteries (included) and automatically powers down after three minutes of inactivity. Users report battery life lasting 6–12 months with regular use. The Escali Primo also uses four AAA batteries but has a shorter auto-off time (two minutes), which some find too aggressive—especially when weighing multiple ingredients in quick succession. Replacing batteries is straightforward on both models, though the OXO’s battery compartment is easier to access with a simple slide-off panel, while the Escali requires a small screwdriver. Neither scale offers rechargeable options, which may disappoint eco-conscious buyers, but standard batteries remain widely available and affordable.
8. Ease of Cleaning
Kitchen scales must endure flour dust, oil splatters, and sticky residues. A smooth, seamless surface makes cleanup effortless. The OXO’s stainless steel platform wipes clean with a damp cloth and resists staining, though fingerprints can be visible. The Escali’s glass platform is equally easy to clean and hides smudges better, but it’s more fragile and can show water spots if not dried immediately. Both scales have sealed buttons to prevent liquid ingress, but neither is fully waterproof. Avoid submerging either model in water. For deep cleaning, remove the platform (OXO allows this; Escali does not) and wipe the base separately. In terms of maintenance, the OXO edges ahead due to its removable platform and robust material choice.
Different Types of Kitchen Scales
Common Buying Mistakes to Avoid
❌ Mistake: Prioritizing Price Over Performance
Why it’s bad: Cheap scales often use low-quality load cells that drift out of calibration quickly, leading to inaccurate measurements. A $15 scale might seem like a bargain, but if it ruins your bread dough or protein portions, it’s a false economy.
What to do instead: Invest in a mid-range scale ($30–$60) from a reputable brand. The difference in accuracy and longevity justifies the cost—especially if you cook regularly.
❌ Mistake: Ignoring Platform Size
Why it’s bad: A small platform forces you to use tiny bowls or balance large containers precariously, increasing spill risk and frustration.
What to do instead: Choose a scale with a platform large enough to accommodate your typical mixing bowls. The OXO’s 7.8” x 5.8” surface is generous, while the Escali’s 6.5” round platform may feel cramped.
❌ Mistake: Overlooking Auto-Off Timing
Why it’s bad: Scales that turn off too quickly interrupt your workflow. The Escali’s 2-minute auto-off can be annoying when weighing multiple ingredients.
What to do instead: Look for models with adjustable or longer auto-off times (3–5 minutes). Alternatively, choose a scale like the OXO with a longer default timeout.
❌ Mistake: Assuming All Glass Platforms Are Equal
Why it’s bad: Tempered glass looks sleek but can crack under impact. Stainless steel is more durable but shows fingerprints.
What to do instead: Match the material to your kitchen habits. If you’re clumsy or have kids, stainless steel (OXO) is safer. If aesthetics matter most and you’re careful, glass (Escali) offers a modern look.
❌ Mistake: Not Checking Unit Options
Why it’s bad: Recipes from different countries use different units. Being stuck with only ounces or grams limits your culinary flexibility.
What to do instead: Ensure the scale supports grams, ounces, pounds, and milliliters—especially if you follow international recipes or track liquids.
❌ Mistake: Skipping User Reviews
Why it’s bad: Marketing specs don’t tell the whole story. Real users reveal issues like button stiffness, display glare, or calibration problems.
What to do instead: Read verified purchase reviews on Amazon, Target, or specialty cooking sites. Look for patterns—not just isolated complaints.
❌ Mistake: Forgetting About Warranty
Why it’s bad: A broken scale with no support leaves you stranded. Some brands offer limited warranties that exclude normal wear.
What to do instead: Choose brands with at least a 1-year warranty and responsive customer service. OXO offers a 2-year warranty; Escali provides 1 year—both are above average.
Budget Guidelines: How Much Should You Spend?
- Entry-Level ($15–$25): These scales are best for occasional use or as backups. Expect basic functionality, smaller platforms, and shorter battery life. Brands like Amazon Basics or generic imports fall here. Avoid if you bake often—accuracy tends to suffer.
- Mid-Range ($30–$50): This is the sweet spot for most home cooks. You get reliable accuracy, decent build quality, and essential features like tare and multiple units. The Escali Primo ($35–$45) fits perfectly here, offering excellent value without frills.
- Premium ($50–$70): Ideal for serious bakers, health enthusiasts, or those who value design and durability. The OXO Good Grips ($55–$65) exemplifies this tier with its stainless steel construction, large display, and ergonomic details. The investment pays off in daily usability.
- Luxury ($70+): Includes smart scales with app connectivity, nutritional databases, or ultra-high precision (0.01g). Models like the Greater Goods Nourish or My weigh Pro are overkill for most but beloved by macro trackers and competitive bakers.
Expert Tips for Getting the Best Deal
- Shop During Sales Events: Kitchen scales often go on sale during Black Friday, Prime Day, and back-to-school seasons. Sign up for newsletters from OXO and Escali to get early access to discounts.
- Buy Direct or From Authorized Retailers: Purchasing from OXO.com, Escali.com, Amazon, or Williams Sonoma ensures you get genuine products with full warranty coverage. Avoid third-party sellers with unclear return policies.
- Check for Refurbished Options: Both brands occasionally offer certified refurbished scales at 20–30% off. These are tested and come with warranties—great for budget-conscious buyers.
- Test Before Committing (If Possible): Visit a local kitchen store like Sur La Table or Bed Bath & Beyond to handle the scales in person. Feel the button responsiveness, check display clarity, and assess platform size.
- Read the Fine Print on Returns: Most retailers allow 30-day returns, but some exclude opened electronics. Confirm the policy before buying, especially online.
- Consider Bundle Deals: Sometimes scales are bundled with measuring cups or recipe books. While not always cost-effective, they can add value if you need those extras.
- Register Your Product: Both OXO and Escali encourage product registration for warranty purposes. It also makes it easier to request replacements or support.
- Keep Batteries Handy: Stock up on AAA batteries. Running out mid-recipe is frustrating. Rechargeable NiMH batteries work well and reduce waste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use a kitchen scale for weighing coffee?
A: Absolutely! Both the OXO and Escali are excellent for coffee brewing. Their 0.1g precision ensures consistent ratios for pour-over, French press, or espresso. Just remember to tare your brewer or cup before adding grounds.
Q: Are these scales waterproof?
A: No. While both have sealed buttons to resist splashes, neither is waterproof. Wipe spills immediately and never submerge them in water.
Q: How do I calibrate my scale?
A: The OXO Good Grips does not support user calibration, but it’s factory-calibrated for accuracy. The Escali Primo also lacks manual calibration. If you suspect drift, use certified calibration weights (sold separately) or contact customer service.
Q: Will the scale work with a bowl on it?
A: Yes! That’s what the tare function is for. Place your bowl, press tare, and add ingredients. Both scales handle bowls up to their max capacity.
Q: Do I need a scale if I have measuring cups?
A: For baking, yes. Measuring cups vary in accuracy due to packing and scooping techniques. Scales provide consistent, repeatable results—critical for cakes, breads, and pastries.
Q: Can I weigh liquids in milliliters?
A: The Escali Primo can, assuming the liquid has a similar density to water. The OXO only shows fluid ounces, not milliliters. For precise liquid measurement, consider a dedicated liquid scale or use weight-to-volume conversions.
Q: How long do the batteries last?
A: With typical use (daily for 10–15 minutes), expect 6–12 months on four AAA batteries. Auto-off helps conserve power.
Q: Is the OXO scale worth the extra cost over the Escali?
A: If you value durability, a larger display, and ergonomic design, yes—especially for frequent use. If you prioritize affordability and don’t mind a smaller screen, the Escali delivers comparable accuracy at a lower price.
Q: Can I use these scales for postage?
A: Technically yes, but they’re not USPS-certified for shipping. For legal postage, use a dedicated postal scale.
Q: What if my scale stops working?
A: Contact OXO or Escali customer service. Both offer responsive support and will often replace defective units under warranty, even if the issue arises months later.
Our Final Recommendations
- Best for Budget-Conscious Buyers: Escali Primo – At under $45, it offers exceptional accuracy, solid build quality, and milliliter measurements. Perfect for casual cooks who want reliability without overspending.
- Best Overall Value: OXO Good Grips Stainless Steel Food Scale – Combines premium materials, a large easy-read display, and thoughtful design. Ideal for daily use and long-term ownership.
- Best Premium Option: OXO Good Grips – While not the most expensive on the market, it delivers luxury-tier usability and durability in a practical package.
- Best for Beginners: Escali Primo – Simple interface, straightforward operation, and forgiving auto-off make it beginner-friendly. No learning curve required.
- Best for Advanced Users: OXO Good Grips – Bakers, macro trackers, and precision-focused cooks will appreciate the consistent performance, tare memory, and robust construction.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Choosing between the OXO Good Grips and Escali Primo ultimately comes down to your priorities. If you’re a weekend baker who values aesthetics, comfort, and long-term durability, the OXO is a worthy investment that will serve you well for years. Its stainless steel platform, expansive display, and ergonomic design reflect a deep understanding of real kitchen challenges. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a no-nonsense, highly accurate scale that won’t break the bank, the Escali Primo is a standout performer. It proves that simplicity and reliability don’t have to come at the expense of quality.
Both scales excel in core functionality—accuracy, tare, unit flexibility—and come from brands with strong reputations and customer support. The decision shouldn’t be about which is “better” in absolute terms, but which aligns with your cooking habits, budget, and personal preferences. Consider how often you’ll use the scale, what types of recipes you follow, and whether features like a large display or extra capacity matter to you.
Remember, a kitchen scale is more than a tool—it’s a partner in precision. Whether you’re measuring 2.5 grams of yeast for sourdough or 150 grams of chicken breast for dinner, the right scale removes guesswork and builds confidence in the kitchen. Take the time to evaluate your needs, read real user experiences, and don’t rush the decision. With the insights from this guide, you’re now equipped to choose wisely and cook with certainty. Happy weighing!