Dietitian tips for buying a scale

Ivory Lira, RDN - Registered Dietitian Nutritionist

Buying a scale doesn’t have to feel complicated. Follow these easy tips to help you find the best one for your needs.

Considerations when buying a new scale

Whether you are looking to lose, gain, or maintain weight, accurately measuring your weight can be an integral part of the process. Buying a scale can help you track the data needed to meet your goals.

Analog vs. digital

When buying a scale, you should “weigh” the differences between analog and digital scales to see what suits you and your budget. Analog scales use a spring mechanism that compresses when you stand on the scale, causing the connected dial to move and indicate your weight. Digital scales use sensors and electronic components to convert the force of your weight on the platform into an electrical signal, displayed as your weight. Digital scales tend to be more accurate.

Points to consider

Weight capacity: Choose a scale with a weight capacity that comfortably accommodates your body weight.
Reliability: Look for a scale that gives you an accurate and consistent weight reading. Try shifting your weight while standing on the scale, and make sure the number does not dramatically shift. Use an object in your house with a known weight, like a dumbbell, to assess the accuracy of the measurement.
Display size: Look for a large, easy-to-read display you can see while standing on the scale.
Platform size: Find a scale with a comfortable platform to stand on. If you have a wider stance or struggle with balance, you may want a scale with a broader platform.
Body composition: Some scales feature body composition readouts based on bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to estimate body fat, lean mass, and body water. See more on this scale type below.
Connectivity: Determine if you want a scale that connects to your phone or other health apps you use.

Body composition analysis

Body composition analysis scales use bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) to assess how much weight comes from fat mass, lean mass, and body water. These scales send a small, painless electrical current through the body. Different tissues resist electricity at different rates; fat tissue has more resistance than muscle. Accuracy can be affected by hydration status, muscle distribution, recent exercise, and certain medical conditions.

If you are buying a scale to measure your weight during your health journey, just know that it is not the only way to track your progress. Non-scale victories are another great way to assess your progress. You can find some tips here.