How to Buy a Scale

If you are on a new diet or just want to monitor you weight, you'll need a scale that is accurate and easy to read. Follow these steps to buy one.

Instructions

• 1

  Visit a department or fitness store or search a website, such as shopping.com, to compare scales against each other. If you're in the store, try the various models to see how they support your weight and check how easy they are to read.

• 2

  Check for accuracy while you're in the store. Place a 5 lb. bag of sugar or another object onto the scale to check. Make sure the scale zeroes correctly after the weight is removed. If the scale is off, find another.

• 3

  Look at the weight range and make sure the scale reads in pounds or kilograms, whichever system you use. If you are overweight and starting a new diet plan, ensure the scale's range includes your starting weight and reads accurately, rather than round to the nearest 5 pounds or kilograms.

• 4

  Find a scale with readable numbers. Digital scales with large numbers are generally more readable than old-fashioned analog models. You should be able to clearly see the numbers without having to bend over.

• 5

  Search for any extra features you want, such as a body fat measurement, a glass top or a digital voice feature. Look for brands such as Weight Watchers, Newline and Taylor, which carry models from simple and plain to complex and sleek.

• 6

  Buy the scale at the store and don't do anything to change the scale's inner workings on the way home. If you buy a scale online and have it shipped to your house, make sure the company has a safe handling shipping policy and a return policy.