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Mechanical Vs. Digital Personal Scale

If you want to lose or maintain weight, you should consider purchasing a bathroom scale. Weighing yourself regularly can help keep excess pounds off, according to the National Weight Control Registry. Digital scales are more accurate than mechanical scales, but both types have pros and cons.

  1. Mechanical Scales

    • Mechanical scales, also called analog scales, have a spring that depresses when you stand on it, and it displays your weight on a rotating dial. Mechanical scales are convenient because they don't require a battery, but they are also less accurate than digital scales, according to a 2010 Consumer Reports magazine study. In addition, this type of scale may become less accurate over time as the spring wears out.

    Digital Scales

    • Digital scales are more accurate than mechanical scales, according to Consumer Reports magazine. Digital scales display your weight on a screen, which is usually easier to read than a dial. However, most digital scales require a battery, which must be changed periodically.

    Watching Your Weight

    • Expect to see some day-to-day fluctuations if you weigh yourself regularly. Your weight will vary depending on your level of exercise, recent food and drink consumption and salt intake. As a result, you should aim to stay in a healthy weight range over time instead of worrying about small fluctuations.

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