Portable Scale Buying Guide: Battery-Powered Balances for Field, Classroom and Lab
Reviewed by MNM Scales technicians · Updated November 4, 2026 · Prices checked November 4, 2026
Short answer: a portable scale is a compact balance that runs on batteries or an AC adapter, so you can weigh samples in the field, in a classroom or on any bench. For 0.01 g on a budget, the OHAUS Scout SPX622 (620 g x 0.01 g) is $716. For more capacity at 0.01 g, the OHAUS Scout SPX2202 (2,200 g x 0.01 g) is $915. For general weighing to 0.1 g, the Adam Core CQT 2601 (2,600 g x 0.1 g) is $328.99. Buy it calibrated: call (832) 290-3120.
This guide is for field technicians, teachers, lab staff and small shops that need a balance they can carry and run away from an outlet. MNM Scales has sold, calibrated and repaired scales and balances for over 30 years from our shop in Cypress, Texas, and we are one of the largest scale distributors. MNM Scales is an authorized OHAUS and Adam Equipment dealer.
What makes a scale portable
- Battery power: the Scout SPX and STX run on 4 AA batteries (not included) or the included AC adapter; the Core CQT 2601 runs on 6 AA batteries (not included) or its included adapter.
- Battery life: OHAUS lists 80 hours for the SPX622 and SPX2202 and 6 hours for the touchscreen STX models on disposable batteries.
- Light and compact: each Scout weighs about 2.2 lb (1 kg) and the Core about 2 lb, and both are built to stack for storage.
- Readability that fits the job: 0.01 g for chemicals, soil and small parts; 0.1 g for food, classroom and general weighing.
- Protection on the move: overload protection on both lines, plus a transport case for the Scout (available as an accessory).
Portable scale models compared at live prices
| Model | Capacity x readability | Pan | Power and display | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OHAUS Scout STX222 | 220 g x 0.01 g | 4.7 in round | 4 AA (not included) or AC adapter; 4.3 in color touchscreen | $591.99 |
| OHAUS Scout SPX622 | 620 g x 0.01 g | 4.7 in round | 4 AA (not included) or AC adapter; backlit LCD; 80 h battery life | $716 |
| OHAUS Scout SPX2202 | 2,200 g x 0.01 g | 5.5 x 6.7 in | 4 AA (not included) or AC adapter; backlit LCD; 80 h battery life | $915 |
| OHAUS Scout STX2202 | 2,200 g x 0.01 g | 5.5 x 6.7 in | 4 AA (not included) or AC adapter; 4.3 in color touchscreen | $1,234.99 |
| Adam Core CQT 2601 | 2,600 g x 0.1 g | 5.7 in round | 6 AA (not included) or AC adapter; backlit LCD; weigh-below hook | $328.99 |
Browse the full OHAUS range or the Adam Equipment range.
Scout SPX, Scout STX or Core
- Scout SPX: the SPX622 and SPX2202 have a large backlit LCD and the longest battery life here, so they suit field days away from power.
- Scout STX: the STX222 and STX2202 add a color touchscreen and extra modes such as density and animal weighing; plan on the AC adapter for long sessions.
- Core: the CQT 2601 is the simplest to use, with dual tare keys, a removable stainless pan and a hook for weighing below the balance.
- Data: the Scout models add RS232, USB, Ethernet or Bluetooth through an interface kit (not included). See how to connect a scale to a computer.
Using a portable scale in the field
- Set the balance on a firm, level surface out of the wind; a car hood or folding table moves too much.
- Let it warm up for a few minutes after you switch it on, then zero it.
- Calibrate after moving to a new site or a big temperature change; Scout and Core models use an external weight (not included).
- Carry spare AA batteries, and use the AC adapter whenever an outlet is close.
- Wipe the pan and pack the balance in its case before you move it.
Rules: NTEP for portable scales
Weighing samples, ingredients or parts for your own records is in-house weighing. The Scout and Core models in this guide are not legal for trade, so do not use them to sell product by weight. If you sell by weight, call us for an NTEP model. Our NTEP guide explains the certificate. For bench balances that stay put, see our lab scale buying guide.
Texas note: TDA does not require an NTEP certificate for every device, but the scale must meet NIST Handbook 44 and suit its use; some scales do need one, so we recommend NTEP models and can check yours. See TDA’s scales used in trade guidance (PDF) and our TDA scale certification guide, or call us or TDA to confirm your use.
Calibration and rental
- Calibration add-ons: our TDA-registered technicians calibrate your balance in-house before it ships. For the OHAUS Scout models, add in-house calibration with a certificate ($95) or NIST calibration with a NIST-traceable certificate ($395). For the Adam Core CQT 2601, add in-house calibration with a certificate ($195) or NIST calibration with a NIST-traceable certificate ($495). See balance calibration in Houston and NIST vs in-house certificates.
- On-site service: $295 + $2 per mile per visit across the Houston area, plus calibration per balance; see on-site calibration.
- Mail-in, repairs and rentals: use mail-in calibration, have us repair the brands we sell, and rent all types of scales while yours is in for service.
Not sure which portable scale fits? Tell us what you weigh, the readability you need and how long you work away from power. We will match the balance and ship it calibrated. Shop: 21249 FM 529 Rd, Cypress, TX 77433, visits by appointment.
Frequently asked questions
What is a portable scale?
A compact balance that runs on batteries or an AC adapter, so you can weigh away from an outlet. The OHAUS Scout and Adam Core models in this guide weigh about 2 lb.
How long do the batteries last in a portable scale?
OHAUS lists 80 hours for the Scout SPX622 and SPX2202 and 6 hours for the touchscreen STX models on 4 AA batteries. Batteries are not included; the AC adapter is.
Which portable scale reads to 0.01 g?
The OHAUS Scout STX222, SPX622, SPX2202 and STX2202 all read to 0.01 g, from 220 g to 2,200 g capacity.
Is a portable scale accurate enough for a lab?
Yes for 0.01 g and 0.1 g work. For finer readings, see our lab scale buying guide.
Can I sell product by weight with a portable scale?
Not with these models; they are not legal for trade. Call us for an NTEP model.
Do you calibrate portable scales?
Yes. In-house calibration with a certificate is $95 for the OHAUS Scout models and $195 for the Adam Core CQT 2601; NIST-traceable is $395 or $495. On-site service is $295 + $2 per mile per visit plus calibration per balance.