OXO Good Grips Food Scale Review

The OXO Good Grips Food Scale is one of the most popular kitchen scales on Amazon, and for good reason. Our editorial team compared specifications, buyer feedback, and key decision factors to give you an honest review. Whether you're a baker, a meal prepper, or just trying to portion your food, this scale has features that stand out. But it's not perfect. Let's break down who it's for, what it does well, and where it falls short.

Design and Build Quality

The OXO Good Grips Food Scale has a sleek, low-profile design that fits easily on a countertop or in a drawer. The body is made of stainless steel and ABS plastic, giving it a sturdy feel. The weighing platform is slightly raised, which makes it easy to see the display even when you place a plate or bowl on it. The pull-out display is the signature feature. It slides out from the front of the scale, so you can read the numbers even when a large mixing bowl covers the top. This is a game-changer for bakers who often use big bowls.

The buttons are responsive, though some users note they feel a bit stiff initially. The scale runs on two AAA batteries, which are included. The battery compartment is easy to access, and the scale has an auto-off function after two minutes of inactivity to save power.

Performance and Accuracy

In terms of performance, the OXO scale delivers consistent results. It has a capacity of 11 pounds (5 kilograms) and measures in increments of 1 gram or 0.1 ounce. That level of precision is ideal for recipes that require exact measurements, like bread or pastry. The tare function works flawlessly, allowing you to zero out the weight of a container and measure multiple ingredients in the same bowl.

The scale also has a fluid ounce mode for measuring liquids, which is handy for coffee or cocktails. However, it's important to note that the fluid ounce measurement is based on water density, so it may not be accurate for other liquids. Most users won't find this a major issue, but it's worth knowing.

Accuracy is generally praised in buyer reviews. Many users report that the scale matches their expectations when compared to other scales or known weights. However, a small number of buyers have noted slight inconsistencies at very low weights, which is common in this price range.

Ease of Use

The OXO Good Grips Food Scale is incredibly easy to use. There are only three buttons: power/tare, unit, and zero. The unit button cycles through grams, ounces, pounds, and milliliters. The large, backlit display is easy to read, even in low light. The pull-out display is a standout convenience, especially when you're using a large bowl that would otherwise block the screen.

The scale is also very responsive. It turns on quickly and updates the weight almost instantly. The auto-off feature is a minor annoyance for some, as it shuts down after two minutes, but that's standard for most scales.

Cleaning and Maintenance

Cleaning the OXO scale is straightforward, but you need to be careful. The scale is not waterproof, so you cannot submerge it. Instead, wipe the surface with a damp cloth and mild soap. The stainless steel top resists stains and fingerprints, but the area around the buttons can trap crumbs. Use a soft brush or toothpick to clean those crevices. The pull-out display is a bit of a dust magnet, but it's easy to wipe down.

Overall, the scale is low-maintenance, but you should avoid exposing it to excessive moisture. Some users have reported that water can seep into the display area if you're not careful, so keep it dry.

Common Buyer Complaints

While the majority of reviews are positive, there are some recurring complaints. The most common is the auto-off timer, which some users find too short. If you're measuring multiple ingredients slowly, the scale may turn off before you're done. You can press the zero button to wake it up, but it's a minor inconvenience.

Another complaint is that the scale's buttons can be stiff, making them hard to press for some users. This tends to improve over time, but it's noticeable at first. A few buyers have also mentioned that the scale's accuracy can drift if you place items off-center. This is typical for scales, but it's worth keeping in mind.

Finally, the lack of Bluetooth or app connectivity is a downside for those who want to track their food intake digitally. But for most people, this is not a dealbreaker.

Comparison with Alternatives

When compared to other popular scales like the Escali Primo, the OXO stands out for its pull-out display and build quality. The Escali is simpler and slightly cheaper, but it lacks the pull-out feature and has a smaller capacity. The Etekcity scale offers more features like Bluetooth and a larger capacity, but it's bulkier and the app can be glitchy. The Greater Goods scale is another solid option with a similar price point, but it doesn't have the pull-out display.

If you prioritize a clear view of the display while using large bowls, the OXO is the clear winner. If you need app integration, the Etekcity might be better. But for most home cooks, the OXO offers the best balance of functionality and ease of use.

Value for Money

The OXO Good Grips Food Scale is priced higher than basic models, but it's still reasonable for the quality. It's built to last, and the pull-out display is a feature you'll appreciate every time you bake. Considering the accuracy and durability, it's a good investment for anyone who cooks or bakes regularly. If you're on a tight budget, you can find cheaper scales, but they may not offer the same precision or ergonomic design.

Final Verdict

In summary, the OXO Good Grips Food Scale is a reliable, well-designed kitchen tool that excels in accuracy and ease of use. Its pull-out display is a unique feature that sets it apart from competitors. While it has a few minor drawbacks, like the short auto-off timer and lack of connectivity, these are unlikely to bother most users. If you're looking for a dependable scale that will make your cooking and baking easier, this is a solid choice.