Bathroom scales are an indispensable tool for anyone monitoring their health. They allow you to track various parameters, and modern scales offer precision, a wide range of features, and stylish designs. However, the vast array of available scales can make choosing the right one a challenge. In this article, we’ll delve into the key features of bathroom scales to help you make an informed decision.
Types: Mechanical vs. Digital
Scales can be categorized as mechanical or digital. Mechanical scales operate using an internal spring: when you step on the scale, the spring compresses, and your weight is displayed on a dial.
- Pros of mechanical scales: Simple to use and repair, can handle weights up to 270 kg or more, no power source required, resistant to damage and moisture, and affordable.
- Cons of mechanical scales: Relatively low accuracy (±0.5–1 kg), lack of additional features.
Digital scales, on the other hand, rely on built-in sensors. When you step on the scale, the sensors deform, and your weight is calculated and displayed on a digital screen.
- Pros of digital scales: High accuracy (measurement error is less than 100 g), multifunctionality: from memory storage to body fat percentage calculation.
- Cons of digital scales: Higher cost, more susceptible to damage, and require a power source.
Platform Material: Plastic, Glass, Metal, and Others
The most common material for bathroom scale platforms is plastic. It’s affordable and easy to clean. Often, the surface of plastic scales is textured to prevent slipping. Glass platforms are the next most popular choice. They are more expensive than plastic but have a more stylish appearance. However, they are fragile, slippery, and cold to the touch. Metal platforms are less common but offer durability and sturdiness. However, they are heavy, expensive, and cold. Exclusive models may feature wooden or stone platforms. Wooden platforms have a luxurious look, a comfortable non-slip surface, and warm to the touch, but they are expensive. Stone platforms also look impressive but, like metal, are heavy, cold, and costly. Some scales have rubber surfaces, which are durable, non-slip, and a good option.
Key Features: Weight Capacity, Power Source, and More
When choosing bathroom scales, pay attention to the maximum weight capacity, measurement units, power source, and indicators.
Consider the maximum weight capacity of different models. Most digital scales can handle up to 160 kg, while mechanical scales can handle up to 200 kg. Models with a capacity of up to 300 kg are less common. Weight can be displayed in kilograms, pounds, or stones. Some digital models allow you to switch between units.
Digital scales can be powered by batteries or rechargeable batteries. Batteries typically last for 3-4 months, especially if the scale has many additional features. If your scale has a wider range of measurements, it’s better to choose a model with a rechargeable battery. Indicators make using the scale easier. Digital scales usually have two indicators:
- Battery level indicator: This tells you when it’s time to replace the batteries or recharge the battery.
- Overload indicator: This warns you when the scale is overloaded. More advanced models may also have a room temperature indicator and a malfunction indicator. It’s best to choose a scale with a maximum weight capacity that is 10-15% higher than what you need. This will prolong the life of the scale.
Additional Features: Auto-On/Off, Memory and More
The auto-on/off function makes weighing as simple as possible and saves battery power. You step on the scale, it turns on, and it turns off a few seconds after you step off.
If you’re tracking your weight, a memory function is useful. It records previous weigh-ins, allowing you to monitor your progress. If multiple people in your household use the scale, choose a model that can store data for several users.
Smart scales can do more than just measure weight. They can also determine your body water percentage, body fat percentage, muscle mass, and bone mass. This analysis is performed using electrodes built into the scale. When you step on the scale, a low-intensity current passes through your body. This is completely safe. The calculations are based on the resistance of your body tissues.
The normal water content in an adult male is 50-65%, and for women, it’s 45-60%. The normal body fat percentage depends on age. Muscle mass accounts for about 45% of total weight in men and 35% in women. The normal bone mass for a healthy man is 2.66-3.69 kg, and for a woman, it’s 1.95-2.95 kg.
Some devices can also measure height, which can be useful for tracking the growth of children. Body mass index (BMI) is the ratio of weight to height. It is used to assess the degree of obesity. Some digital scales can calculate BMI. To do this, you need to enter your height into the scale.
Advanced models can sync with your smartphone via special apps. The scale transmits your current body data to your smartphone, allowing you to track changes over time and share the data with your trainer, for example.
Premium bathroom scales may have a built-in printer to print out all the necessary data right at the weighing station. For devices with many features, there is often a remote control unit or a smartphone app to switch modes without bending down to the scale. Remember that as the number of features increases, so does the cost.