Choosing a new bathroom scale (or replacing an old one) may seem like a simple proposition. But many modern scales offer capabilities that go far beyond simply telling you how much you weigh, and choosing the best option for you may require some thought. Here’s what you need to know before investing in a bathroom scale.
Digital Scale or Analog?
There are two basic types of bathroom scales: analog or digital. Analog scales are purely mechanical, with no electronic parts. They may be slightly less accurate than digital scales but are more durable and don’t require batteries. Digital scales combine mechanical parts and electronics to provide more finely-calibrated results.
Simple or High-tech?
Analog scales do one thing only: they measure your weight. Digital scales, on the other hand, run the gamut from simple weight-measurement tools to high-tech gadgets that can not only weigh you but measure your body fat, check your heart rate, and more. Some high-tech models have companion apps and can connect to your smartphone via Bluetooth, automatically tracking and updating your weight, BMI, or other metrics.
Key Points to Consider when Choosing a Bathroom Scale
Whether you’re looking for an app-enabled high-tech digital scale or the simplest of analog models, there are a few things to consider before you buy.
- Weight capacity. It’s essential to choose the correct scale for your body weight. While most scales accommodate weights up to 275 or 300 pounds, people heavier than this should check the scale’s capacity before buying. Newer designs are often engineered to measure weights up to 400 or even 500 pounds. Scales designed for larger bodies are usually wider than standard scales, giving you a broader, more stable base to stand on. This can be helpful even if you don’t need the additional weight capacity.
- Readability. No matter how many bells and whistles your new scale has, its usefulness is limited if you can’t easily read it. The display should be large and easy to read and should be located where any part of your body doesn’t obscure it while you’re standing on it. Some digital scales offer an audio feature that lets the scale “read” your weight aloud, along with showing it on the display. This feature can be helpful for those with visual impairments.
- Durability. The best bathroom scale can withstand wear and tear. Look for models made of durable materials for more prolonged use.
- Ease of use. While digital scales can have a wide variety of features beyond merely measuring weight, to be truly useful, they should be easy to operate. Choose a scale that meets your needs without offering extra options you’re not likely to use. If the scale you opt for has functions other than measuring weight, make sure the instructions are clear and easy to understand before you buy.
There are dozens of types of scales on the market, and the suitable model for you depends on what you want. Whether you choose digital or analog, high-tech or low-tech, stylish or utilitarian, keeping the four factors above in mind will help you select the model best suited to you. Check out Simply Medical today for all your healthcare supplies.