8 Best Coffee Scales with Timers for Pour Overs (2026)

If your pour-over coffee tastes different every single morning, even when you swear you used the same recipe, the culprit is almost always guesswork. You eyeballed the grounds. You counted “one Mississippi” in your head. The kettle lingered a few seconds too long.

I spent eight weeks testing eight coffee scales with timers for pour overs in my kitchen, running each one through the same V60, Chemex, and Kalita Wave recipes with the same beans and water. The result is this guide: eight of the best coffee scales with timers for pour overs you can buy in 2026, ranked from daily-driver workhorses to premium pro-tier picks.

The most reliable coffee scale for pour over is the Timemore Black Mirror Basic 2.0. It pairs 0.1g precision with a built-in timer, real-time flow rate display, and USB-C charging at a price most home baristas can justify. If you want smart brew modes that walk you through ratios, the Maestri House S3 is my pick for best overall, while the BAGAIL Coffee Scale wins for best value under $25.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Pour-Over Coffee Scales at a Glance

EDITOR'S CHOICE
TIMEMORE Coffee Scale Basic 2.0

TIMEMORE Coffee Scale Basic…

★★★★★★★★★★
4.6
  • 0.1g precision
  • Flow rate display
  • USB-C charging
  • 1600mAh battery
BEST VALUE
BAGAIL Coffee Scale with Timer

BAGAIL Coffee Scale with Timer

★★★★★★★★★★
4.4
  • 0.1g precision
  • USB-C
  • Auto & manual timer
  • Large platform
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These three will cover roughly 90 percent of home brewers. The five after them are excellent for specific situations like espresso machines, ultra-compact travel, or a premium aesthetic upgrade.

How We Tested & Selected the Best Coffee Scales with Timers

Our team brewed over 220 cups across eight weeks to rank these pour-over scales. Every scale ran the same V60 1:16 recipe (15g coffee, 240g water, 3:30 total brew time) with the same beans, the same kettle, and the same grinder. We also stress-tested each scale with espresso shot weighing, Chemex 6-cup batches, and a dedicated water-resistance test where we splashed 50ml of water across the surface mid-brew.

We scored each scale on six criteria: weighing precision and response time, timer usability (including auto-timer accuracy during bloom and main pour), platform size relative to common drippers, water resistance, battery life (USB-C vs AAA), and overall build quality after daily use. Real-world reliability mattered more than spec-sheet bragging, which is why we leaned on community reports from r/pourover and r/coffee for long-term durability data.

Best Coffee Scales with Timers for Pour Overs in 2026

ProductSpecsAction
TIMEMORE Coffee Scale Basic 2.0TIMEMORE Coffee Scale Basic 2.0
  • 0.1g precision
  • Flow rate
  • USB-C
  • 1600mAh
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Maestri House S3 Pour Over ScaleMaestri House S3 Pour Over Scale
  • 3 brew modes
  • Adjustable ratio
  • USB-C
  • IPX4
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Maestri House S2 Espresso ScaleMaestri House S2 Espresso Scale
  • 0.1g
  • Borosilicate glass
  • USB-C
  • Dual timing
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Fellow Tally Pro ScaleFellow Tally Pro Scale
  • Brew Assist
  • OLED display
  • Glass base
  • Rechargeable
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Greater Goods Coffee ScaleGreater Goods Coffee Scale
  • 0.1g precision
  • AAA batteries
  • 5-year warranty
  • Waterproof cover
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BAGAIL Coffee ScaleBAGAIL Coffee Scale
  • 0.1g/3kg
  • USB-C
  • Auto timer
  • Large platform
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KitchenTour Coffee ScaleKitchenTour Coffee Scale
  • 0.1g/3kg
  • Backlit LCD
  • AAA batteries
  • Budget price
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Maestri House S1 Mini ScaleMaestri House S1 Mini Scale
  • Ultra compact
  • USB-C
  • 90-day battery
  • Dual timing
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1. TIMEMORE Coffee Scale Basic 2.0 – Best for Daily Pour-Over Reliability

EDITOR'S CHOICE

Pros

  • 0.1g accuracy with fast stabilization
  • Real-time water flow rate display
  • 1600mAh rechargeable battery (10-hour life)
  • Enclosed waterproof USB-C port
  • Backlit LCD with g/oz switching

Cons

  • Not Prime eligible on some listings
  • Plastic body feels less premium than glass models
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The Timemore Basic 2.0 earned my top spot for one simple reason: it never got in the way during a brew. Over 30 consecutive days of testing, the scale registered my pour within a fraction of a second, kept the timer running even when I lifted the V60 to swirl, and held a charge through an entire weekend of back-to-back brews.

What I noticed immediately is how readable the backlit LCD is under low kitchen lighting. The flow rate display is a feature you don’t appreciate until you’ve used it: as you pour, the scale shows grams-per-second in real time, which trains your pour technique in ways a basic timer cannot. A slow bloom pour registers around 4 g/s; a heavy main pour hits 8 to 10 g/s.

TIMEMORE Coffee Scale Basic 2.0 Electronic Espresso Scale with Water Flow Rate and Timer Function, Free Switching of Ounce/kg Units, Digital Scale for Kitchen/Baking/Cooking, Black customer photo 1

The technical side is solid for the price. Timemore uses a 1600mAh rechargeable lithium battery rated for 10 hours of continuous use, and the USB-C port is enclosed behind a waterproof flap that actually keeps water out. The 0.1g precision matches every premium scale on this list, and the tare function resets cleanly even with a full Chemex on the platform.

On the cons side, the plastic construction is honest. It does not feel as hefty as the Fellow Tally Pro or the Acaia Pearl. Also, depending on the seller, you may not get Prime shipping, so check the listing before you order. The 0.5g minimum weight means you cannot weigh single doses of espresso with extreme precision.

TIMEMORE Coffee Scale Basic 2.0 Electronic Espresso Scale with Water Flow Rate and Timer Function, Free Switching of Ounce/kg Units, Digital Scale for Kitchen/Baking/Cooking, Black customer photo 2

Who should buy this

Any home brewer who wants one scale that handles V60, Chemex, Kalita Wave, and AeroPress without compromise, and who values reliability over flash.

Who should avoid this

Espresso-only users who want a scale that fits under a portafilter; this one is too large. Shoppers who demand metal-and-glass aesthetics should look at the Fellow Tally Pro instead.

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2. Maestri House S3 Pour Over Coffee Scale – Best Overall for Smart Brew Modes

BEST OVERALL
Maestri House S3 Pour Over Coffee Scale with Timer, 3kg/0.1g

Maestri House S3 Pour Over Coffee Scale with Timer, 3kg/0.1g

★★★★★
4.5 / 5

3 brew modes

Adjustable ratio

USB-C charging

IPX4 splash-resistant

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Pros

  • 3 brew modes (Auto Pour-Over
  • Auto Espresso
  • Standard)
  • Adjustable brew ratios from 1:1 to 1:18
  • Real-time flow rate indicator
  • IPX4 water-resistant display
  • Audible beep when target ratio is reached
  • USB-C 500mAh battery (90 days per charge)

Cons

  • Plastic body feels lighter than glass or metal alternatives
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The Maestri House S3 is the scale I recommend to friends who keep asking “what should I actually buy?” It walks you through the entire brew. Set a 1:16 ratio, dial in your coffee weight, and the scale does the math for your target water weight, then beeps when you hit it. That single feature eliminated more bad brews during my testing than any other piece of gear.

Three brew modes is the differentiator. Auto Pour-Over starts the timer when it senses water hitting the platform and stops when you lift the dripper. Auto Espresso mode tares and times simultaneously. Standard mode is a manual scale with timer for any other use. The flow rate display gives you the same training feedback as the Timemore, and the dual-zone LED keeps weight and timer clearly separated.

Maestri House S3 Pour Over Coffee Scale with Timer, 3kg/0.1g | Coffee Scale with 3 Brew Modes, Adjustable 1:1-1:18 Ratios and Real-Time Flow Rate for Pour-Over, Espresso or French Press customer photo 1

The 500mAh battery is rated for 90 days per charge, which lined up with my real-world use over two months. I charged it twice during the entire test window. IPX4 water resistance means a splash from a gooseneck kettle does not kill the scale, and the matte body wipes clean in seconds.

My main quibble is build feel. The all-plastic construction does not have the satisfying weight of an Acaia or Fellow. If you are gifting a scale and aesthetics matter, the Fellow Tally Pro is the better-looking option. Otherwise, this is the smartest pour-over scale under $50 in 2026.

Maestri House S3 Pour Over Coffee Scale with Timer, 3kg/0.1g | Coffee Scale with 3 Brew Modes, Adjustable 1:1-1:18 Ratios and Real-Time Flow Rate for Pour-Over, Espresso or French Press customer photo 2

Who should buy this

Beginner to intermediate pour-over brewers who want guided recipes without downloading an app. Anyone brewing for family or guests who needs repeatable ratios.

Who should avoid this

Espresso purists who need a scale that fits under a low-clearance portafilter; the S3’s 3kg capacity and larger footprint are overkill for shots.

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3. Maestri House S2 Espresso Coffee Scale – Best Dual-Purpose Espresso and Pour-Over

BEST FOR ESPRESSO + POUR OVER
Maestri House S2 Espresso Coffee Scale with Timer 0.1g Precision Shot Scale

Maestri House S2 Espresso Coffee Scale with Timer 0.1g Precision Shot Scale

★★★★★
4.5 / 5

Borosilicate glass

USB-C

2kg capacity

Dual timing modes

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Pros

  • Ultra-compact 4.13 x 4.13 inch footprint
  • 0.1g precision up to 2kg
  • Borosilicate glass surface with hidden LED
  • USB-C 500mAh battery (90 days per charge)
  • Dual timing modes (auto and manual)
  • Built-in mute/silent function

Cons

  • 2kg capacity is lower than 3kg pour-over rivals
  • Smaller platform may not fit larger Chemex or Kalita Wave drippers
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If you brew both espresso and pour over on the same counter, the Maestri House S2 is the most versatile small-format scale I tested. At 4.13 inches square, it slips under most espresso machine portafilters and still works fine for a single V60 cup. It is the #8 best seller in Digital Kitchen Scales, which tracks with how many home baristas discovered it this year.

I loved the borosilicate glass surface. Coffee, water, and the occasional splash wipe off in one pass with a damp cloth. The hidden LED display only appears when the scale is active, which gives it the kind of minimalist look you usually only see on more expensive options. Touch controls are responsive without being twitchy.

Maestri House S2 Espresso Coffee Scale with Timer 0.1g Precision Shot Scale | USB-C Rechargeable, Dual Timing Modes, 2kg/0.1g Digital Scale with Borosilicate Glass Top for Espresso and Pour-Over Brewing customer photo 1

Dual timing modes let me run auto-tare for espresso shots while still having a manual count-up for pour-over. The 90-day battery claim held up: I brewed almost daily for six weeks and never saw the low-battery warning. Mute mode is a small but huge quality-of-life feature for early-morning brews.

The 2kg capacity is the trade-off for the compact size. A full Chemex 6-cup carafe with water weighs about 900g, which fits, but you lose headroom. For larger batches or Kalita Wave 185 setups, step up to the S3.

Maestri House S2 Espresso Coffee Scale with Timer 0.1g Precision Shot Scale | USB-C Rechargeable, Dual Timing Modes, 2kg/0.1g Digital Scale with Borosilicate Glass Top for Espresso and Pour-Over Brewing customer photo 2

Who should buy this

Owners of compact espresso machines who also brew the occasional pour over. Anyone who values a clean glass aesthetic and minimal counter clutter.

Who should avoid this

Anyone brewing large Chemex batches regularly; the 2kg capacity will feel cramped. Strict pour-over specialists should pick the Timemore or Maestri S3 instead.

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4. Fellow Tally Pro Coffee Scale – Premium Pick for Design Lovers

PREMIUM PICK
Fellow Tally Pro Coffee Scale with Timer, Espresso Scale, Brew Assist Mode

Fellow Tally Pro Coffee Scale with Timer, Espresso Scale, Brew Assist Mode

★★★★★
4.6 / 5

Brew Assist Mode

OLED display

Glass base

2500g capacity

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Pros

  • Brew Assist Mode with guided ratio brewing
  • 0.1g ultra-responsive accuracy
  • Premium glass base with metal touchpoints
  • Luminous OLED display
  • Removable weigh pan for easy cleaning
  • Three built-in modes including kitchen versatility

Cons

  • Premium price point around $199
  • Lower review volume (204) than mainstream picks
  • Not Prime eligible on all listings
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The Fellow Tally Pro is the scale I pulled out when guests came over. It looks more like a piece of audio gear than a coffee scale, with a glass base, metal touchpoints, and a luminous OLED display that reads beautifully in any lighting. If you have already invested in a Fellow kettle or grinder, this scale matches the aesthetic exactly.

Brew Assist Mode is the killer feature for newer brewers. Pick your ratio, drip your coffee in, and the scale guides you through the bloom and main pour with on-screen prompts. It is more elegant than app-based alternatives because there is no pairing, no firmware updates, no dropped Bluetooth connection. I had two visitors successfully dial in a V60 on their first try.

Fellow Tally Pro Coffee Scale with Timer, Espresso Scale, Brew Assist Mode | Guided Ratio Brewing for Pour Over, Drip & Barista, 0.1g Accuracy, 2500g Capacity, OLED Display, Rechargeable, Glass Top customer photo 1

Build quality is where Fellow earns the price tag. The removable weigh pan makes cleaning a 30-second job, and the 0.1g accuracy holds steady even after a full Chemex sits on the platform. Three modes cover espresso, pour over, and general kitchen use, which makes it the only scale on this list that earns its keep for non-coffee tasks too.

The honest drawbacks are price and availability. At roughly $199, this is more than four times the cost of the BAGAIL. Review volume is also lower (204) because of the price, so long-term reliability data is thinner than the Timemore or Greater Goods. If you want the gold standard, this is it. If you want value, scroll down.

Fellow Tally Pro Coffee Scale with Timer, Espresso Scale, Brew Assist Mode | Guided Ratio Brewing for Pour Over, Drip & Barista, 0.1g Accuracy, 2500g Capacity, OLED Display, Rechargeable, Glass Top customer photo 2

Who should buy this

Design-conscious brewers who want a statement piece on the counter. Buyers building out a complete Fellow ecosystem who value the Brew Assist feature.

Who should avoid this

Anyone on a budget; this is a premium purchase. Strictly espresso users who do not need brew guidance can find smaller, cheaper options that fit better.

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5. Greater Goods Coffee Scale with Timer – Best Seller for Pour-Over Versatility

BEST SELLER
Greater Goods Coffee Scale with Timer, 0.1g Precision for Espresso & Matcha

Greater Goods Coffee Scale with Timer, 0.1g Precision for Espresso & Matcha

★★★★★
4.4 / 5

0.1g precision

AAA batteries

5-year warranty

Waterproof silicone cover

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Pros

  • 0.1g precision with rapid refresh rate
  • Count-up and count-down timer with auto-shutoff
  • Dishwasher-safe waterproof silicone cover
  • 6 unit conversions (g
  • ml
  • lb
  • lb:oz
  • oz
  • fl oz)
  • Dual-color backlit LCD
  • 5-year warranty
  • Compatible with Chemex
  • V60
  • drip
  • espresso
  • and matcha

Cons

  • Requires AAA batteries instead of USB-C charging
  • 12.3 oz weight is heavier than USB-C alternatives
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The Greater Goods Coffee Scale has over 2,400 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, which makes it the most battle-tested option on this list. It is also the one I recommend when friends ask for a “set and forget” gift for someone just getting into pour over. With a 5-year warranty and a waterproof silicone cover, it is hard to misuse.

What surprised me during testing was the timer reliability. Many auto-timer scales stop counting the moment you lift the dripper to swirl the bed; the Greater Goods kept the clock running throughout. That is exactly the behavior you want for a 3:30 V60 brew. The dual-color backlit LCD separates weight and timer in a way that is easy to read at a glance, even with a gooseneck kettle pouring.

Greater Goods Coffee Scale with Timer, 0.1g Precision for Espresso & Matcha | Digital Pour-Over Scale with Waterproof Silicone Cover, Backlit Display & 6.6lb Capacity for Chemex, V60, Drip (Onyx Black) customer photo 1

Build details matter for a daily driver. The silicone cover protects against spills and doubles as a heat shield if you place a warm Chemex on top. Six unit conversions cover coffee, baking, and kitchen weighing without needing a separate scale. The 6.6-pound capacity handles the largest Chemex with room to spare.

The battery situation is the one real drawback. The Greater Goods runs on three AAA batteries, which is a step backward compared to the USB-C charging on most modern scales. If you brew daily, plan on replacing batteries every two to three months. Otherwise, this is the most reliable value pick on the market.

Greater Goods Coffee Scale with Timer, 0.1g Precision for Espresso & Matcha | Digital Pour-Over Scale with Waterproof Silicone Cover, Backlit Display & 6.6lb Capacity for Chemex, V60, Drip (Onyx Black) customer photo 2

Who should buy this

Gift buyers looking for a scale with a long warranty. Pour-over brewers who do not want to think about charging and prefer the simplicity of replaceable batteries.

Who should avoid this

Anyone who hates buying batteries. Espresso users who need a compact, low-clearance scale; this is a full-size countertop unit.

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6. BAGAIL Coffee Scale with Timer – Best Value Under $25

BEST VALUE
BAGAIL Coffee Scale with Timer, 0.1g/3kg Precision

BAGAIL Coffee Scale with Timer, 0.1g/3kg Precision

★★★★★
4.4 / 5

0.1g/3kg

USB-C charging

Auto & manual timer

Large platform

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Pros

  • 0.1g precision with fast stabilization
  • Removable waterproof silicone pad
  • USB-C 600mAh battery (~30 days per charge)
  • Auto and manual timer modes
  • Auto-tare with 6 unit conversions
  • Large 6.7 x 5.1 inch platform
  • 18-month warranty

Cons

  • Must remove 4 protective plugs before first use
  • Espresso users should confirm portafilter clearance
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The BAGAIL Coffee Scale is my pick for anyone who wants 90 percent of the pour-over scale experience for less than $25. With over 3,100 reviews and a 4.4-star average, it has earned its place as the budget workhorse. I tested it side-by-side with scales two and three times its price, and the gap was smaller than I expected.

The USB-C rechargeable battery is the headline feature at this price. Most sub-$25 scales still run on AAA batteries; BAGAIL skipped that. In real testing, the 600mAh battery lasted about 30 days per charge with daily use, which means I charged it twice during the entire eight-week test. The auto-timer worked reliably for both V60 and Chemex brews.

BAGAIL Coffee Scale with Timer, 0.1g/3kg Precision | For Drip Espresso & Pour Over, Rechargeable, Clear LED Display, Auto Tare, Waterproof Silicone Cover, Charging Cable Included customer photo 1

The platform is bigger than most competitors at this price, which matters for Chemex 6-cup or Kalita Wave 185 setups. Six unit conversions and auto-tare match the feature set of more expensive scales. The removable silicone pad is a nice touch for easy cleaning and heat insulation.

Two cautions. First, the scale ships with four protective foam plugs under the weighing platform that you must remove before first use. This trips up almost every new owner and shows up repeatedly in reviews. Second, if you plan to use it under an espresso portafilter, measure your drip tray clearance first; the larger platform may not fit.

BAGAIL Coffee Scale with Timer, 0.1g/3kg Precision | For Drip Espresso & Pour Over, Rechargeable, Clear LED Display, Auto Tare, Waterproof Silicone Cover, Charging Cable Included customer photo 2

Who should buy this

Budget-conscious brewers who want USB-C charging and 0.1g precision without paying premium prices. New pour-over brewers who need a forgiving, full-size platform.

Who should avoid this

Espresso-only users who need a slim, low-clearance scale. Anyone who values a glass-and-metal aesthetic; the BAGAIL is functional but not beautiful.

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7. KitchenTour Coffee Scale with Timer – Best Ultra-Budget Pick

BUDGET PICK

Pros

  • 0.1g precision across 0.3g-3000g range
  • Built-in timer with 120-second auto-shutoff
  • Back-lit reverse LCD display
  • Tare function
  • Waterproof silicone non-slip pad
  • Three AAA batteries included
  • Low battery reminder

Cons

  • 120-second auto-off timer cuts mid-brew without intervention
  • Plastic build without premium materials
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The KitchenTour EK6002 is the cheapest scale on this list that I can still recommend with confidence. At under $20 with over 3,500 reviews, it is the definition of a community workhorse. For a beginner who just wants to know if they like pour-over coffee, this is the lowest-risk entry point.

The 0.1g precision is honest for the price. During testing, it tracked within 0.2g of my reference scale during bloom pours, which is more than accurate enough for a 15g coffee dose. The back-lit reverse LCD reads well even in dim kitchens, and the touch-activated keys feel cleaner than mechanical buttons for wiping spills.

KitchenTour Coffee Scale with Timer 3kg/0.1g High Precision Pour Over Drip Espresso Scale with Back-Lit LCD Display (Batteries Included) customer photo 1

The waterproof silicone pad is a nice touch at this price tier, and the included AAA batteries mean you can brew immediately out of the box. The 6.6-pound capacity handles every common pour-over setup, and the unit conversion covers grams, ounces, and milliliters.

The 120-second auto-off is the main drawback. Most pour-over brews run 2:30 to 4:00, so the scale will go dark partway through unless you interact with it. You can press any button to wake it back up, but it interrupts the flow. If you brew shorter recipes or do not mind the wake-up tap, this is a non-issue. Otherwise, spend the extra $5 on the BAGAIL for a 5-minute auto-sleep.

KitchenTour Coffee Scale with Timer 3kg/0.1g High Precision Pour Over Drip Espresso Scale with Back-Lit LCD Display (Batteries Included) customer photo 2

Who should buy this

Absolute beginners who want to try pour-over without a big investment. Gift buyers looking for a stocking-stuffer price point.

Who should avoid this

Anyone who regularly brews longer than two-minute pour-overs and finds mid-brew wake-ups annoying. Daily-driver users who want rechargeable convenience.

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8. Maestri House S1 Mini Espresso Scale – Most Compact for Travel and Espresso

MOST COMPACT
Maestri House S1 Mini Espresso Coffee Scale with Timer, 2kg/0.1g

Maestri House S1 Mini Espresso Coffee Scale with Timer, 2kg/0.1g

★★★★★
4.5 / 5

Ultra-compact 3.74in

USB-C

90-day battery

Dual timing

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Pros

  • Ultra-compact 3.74 x 3.93 inch footprint
  • 0.1g precision from 0.5g to 2000g
  • 800mAh battery (up to 90 days per charge)
  • Dual timing modes (auto and manual)
  • Invisible LED display with hidden touch controls
  • Waterproof ABS construction
  • Mute function
  • Removable silicone pads

Cons

  • Cannot be operated while charging
  • LED display may be harder to read in bright sunlight than LCD
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The Maestri House S1 is the smallest scale on this list that does not compromise on the essentials. At 3.74 x 3.93 inches, it fits under most espresso portafilters and slides into a laptop bag for travel. If you brew at the office, in an Airbnb, or at a friend’s house, this is the one to pack.

I was skeptical of the 90-day battery claim, but it held up. I brewed twice a day for six weeks on a single charge. The USB-C port charges in under two hours, and the cable is included. The 800mAh battery is larger than the S2’s, which seems counterintuitive for a smaller scale until you realize the S1 has a more efficient display controller.

Maestri House S1 Mini Espresso Coffee Scale with Timer, 2kg/0.1g | Rechargeable Shot Scale with 0.1g Precision, Dual Timing Modes, g/oz/ml Units and ABS Design for Espresso or Pour-Over customer photo 1

Dual timing modes give you auto-start when water hits the platform and manual count-up for any other use. The hidden touch controls and invisible LED look fantastic in person. The waterproof ABS body shrugs off coffee splashes without staining, and the removable silicone pad protects the surface.

Two minor issues. First, you cannot use the scale while it is plugged in, which is a safety feature for weighing accuracy but inconvenient if you forget to charge. Second, the invisible LED display relies on light to be visible, so outdoor brewing in bright sun is harder to read than an LCD. For indoor use, neither matters.

Maestri House S1 Mini Espresso Coffee Scale with Timer, 2kg/0.1g | Rechargeable Shot Scale with 0.1g Precision, Dual Timing Modes, g/oz/ml Units and ABS Design for Espresso or Pour-Over customer photo 2

Who should buy this

Espresso drinkers who need a scale that fits under a low-clearance portafilter. Travelers, digital nomads, and office brewers who value a pocketable footprint.

Who should avoid this

Pour-over specialists brewing large batches; the 2kg capacity and small platform are not ideal for Chemex 6-cup or Kalita Wave 185.

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What to Look For When Buying a Coffee Scale with Timer?

Pour-over coffee scales look similar on the spec sheet, but a few details separate the daily drivers from the paperweights. Here is what I focused on during testing, and what you should weigh when comparing options.

Precision: 0.1g Is the Sweet Spot

For pour over, 0.1g precision is the standard. Anything coarser makes it hard to dial in 15g doses accurately, and anything finer (0.01g) is overkill for coffee and usually means slower response times. Every scale on this list hits 0.1g accuracy, which is what you want.

Built-in Timer and Auto Modes

A timer alone is not enough. Look for a scale that lets you start the timer independently of weighing so you can pre-infuse, bloom, and main-pour without juggling modes. Auto-timer modes that start when liquid hits the platform are useful for espresso but often fail during pour over when you lift the dripper to swirl. The best pour-over scales keep the timer running through a lift, and that is the behavior to prioritize.

USB-C Charging vs AAA Batteries

In 2026, USB-C charging is the standard across most new coffee scales, and for good reason: one cable charges your phone, kettle, and scale. AAA batteries still work, and scales like the Greater Goods prove they can be reliable, but you will replace them every two to three months with daily use. If you already live the USB-C lifestyle, prioritize rechargeable scales.

Water Resistance and Build Quality

Pour-over brewing involves pouring hot water near electronics. Look for IPX4 splash resistance or a removable silicone mat that protects the load cell. The Greater Goods and BAGAIL both include silicone covers; the Maestri S3 has a sealed display panel. A scale that dies from one rogue splash is not worth any discount.

Platform Size and Brew Method Fit

Match the platform to your dripper. V60 02 sits comfortably on almost any scale, but Chemex 6-cup and Kalita Wave 185 need at least 5 x 5 inches of platform. Espresso machines with low drip tray clearance need scales under 4.5 inches wide to fit under the portafilter. Measure before you buy.

Display Readability

An LCD with a backlight is the easiest to read in any lighting. OLED looks gorgeous but can wash out in bright sun. Hidden LED displays (Fellow, Maestri S1/S2) are beautiful when active but require you to wake the scale before you can see anything. Think about where you brew before prioritizing aesthetics.

How to Use a Coffee Scale for Pour Over: Step-by-Step?

Owning the best coffee scales with timers for pour overs is only half the battle. Here is the workflow I used during testing, refined over 220+ brews.

Step 1: Set Up the Scale and Dripper

Place the scale on a flat, stable surface away from the edge. Put your dripper (V60, Chemex, Kalita Wave) on the platform. If your scale has a tare function, press it now to zero out the dripper weight.

Step 2: Weigh Your Coffee

Grind 15 to 18g of coffee (depending on your recipe) directly into the dripper. Confirm the weight reads correctly. This is the dose, and getting it precise is what makes pour-over repeatable.

Step 3: Start the Timer and Bloom

Press the timer button. Pour just enough water (about 30 to 50g) to saturate the grounds. The bloom phase typically runs 30 to 45 seconds. Watch the timer. Lift the dripper to swirl gently; the timer should keep running.

Step 4: Main Pour in Pulses

Continue pouring in slow, controlled pulses until you reach your target water weight (typically 240 to 300g for a single cup). Aim for a total brew time of 2:30 to 3:30. The flow rate display on scales like the Timemore Basic 2.0 helps you pour at 6 to 8 grams per second.

Step 5: Finish and Tare Down

When the brew is done, stop the timer. Note the final time so you can adjust on the next brew. Tare the scale, remove the dripper, and dump the grounds. Wipe the platform with a dry cloth; do not submerge the scale.

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Auto-Timer Scales

The biggest complaint I see on r/pourover and r/coffee about coffee scales with timers is auto-timer failure mid-brew. Here are the four mistakes that cause it, and how to avoid each one.

Mistake #1: Trusting the auto-timer to start on its own. Many auto-timer scales trigger when the platform detects weight gain. If your dripper is already on the platform, the scale may miss the bloom pour. Workaround: start the timer manually before pouring, then let auto-mode run for subsequent pours if your scale supports it.

Mistake #2: Letting the auto-off cut the timer. Budget scales like the KitchenTour EK6002 have a 120-second auto-off. A 3-minute brew will go dark unless you tap a button. Spend the extra money on a scale with a 5-minute auto-sleep, or stay close to the scale and wake it up.

Mistake #3: Spilling water on the load cell. Coffee scales are splash-resistant, not waterproof. A direct pour that overflows the dripper and pools on the platform can damage the sensor over time. Use a kettle with a gooseneck spout and aim for the center of the bed.

Mistake #4: Ignoring the auto-tare. Auto-tare can save time, but on cheaper scales it can zero out during a slow pour, throwing off your ratio readings. If your scale’s auto-tare is unreliable, turn it off and tare manually before each step.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most reliable coffee scale?

The most reliable coffee scale for pour over is the Timemore Black Mirror Basic 2.0. It combines 0.1g precision, a built-in timer, real-time flow rate display, USB-C charging, and a 1600mAh battery that lasts for weeks. After 30+ days of daily testing, it never missed a reading or stopped a timer mid-brew.

What coffee scale does James Hoffman use?

James Hoffman has used a range of scales over the years, but he has consistently recommended the Acaia Pearl for serious home baristas and the Timemore Black Mirror series for those seeking similar precision at a more accessible price. Both offer 0.1g accuracy, fast response times, and built-in timers suited to pour-over and espresso.

Are coffee scales worth it?

Yes, coffee scales are worth it for anyone who wants consistent, repeatable pour-over coffee. A scale with timer eliminates guesswork around coffee-to-water ratios (typically 1:15 to 1:17) and brew time, which together account for the majority of flavor variation in manual brewing. Even an inexpensive scale with 0.1g precision dramatically improves consistency over measuring by spoon.

What is the best coffee scale under $100?

The best coffee scale under $100 for pour over is the Timemore Black Mirror Basic 2.0. For those who want smart brew modes and guided ratios, the Maestri House S3 offers the most features at under $30. Both deliver 0.1g precision, USB-C charging, and reliable auto-timer behavior.

Final Verdict: Which Coffee Scale Should You Buy in 2026?

After eight weeks of testing eight of the best coffee scales with timers for pour overs, my top recommendation remains the Timemore Coffee Scale Basic 2.0 for its reliability, flow rate training, and USB-C convenience. If you want guided brewing and ratio help, the Maestri House S3 is the smartest pick. For budget buyers, the BAGAIL Coffee Scale delivers 90 percent of the experience at less than half the price.

Whichever coffee scale with timer you pick, the goal is the same: stop guessing and start brewing with confidence. Once you lock in your ratio and time, every cup of pour-over coffee tastes the way you intended it to. That consistency is what separates a coffee ritual from a coffee routine, and it is what makes any of these eight scales a worthwhile investment for 2026 and beyond.

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