Bench Scale Buying Guide: Capacity, Readability and NTEP for Counter Weighing
Reviewed by MNM Scales technicians · Updated November 4, 2026 · Prices checked November 4, 2026
Short answer: a bench scale sits on a counter or workbench and weighs parts, ingredients and small cartons up to a few hundred pounds. Pick the pan size first, then capacity and readability. For fine work with heavy containers that you also sell by weight, the NTEP A&D EK-15KLN (15 kg x 2 g, 0.1 g up to 3 kg) is $595. For simple counter weighing up to 44 lb, the A&D SJ-20KHS is $195. Buy it calibrated: call (832) 290-3120.
This guide is for production lines, labs, kitchens, stockrooms and workshops choosing a digital bench scale. For decks bigger than a bench pan, see our platform scale guide. MNM Scales has sold, calibrated and repaired scales for over 30 years from our shop in Cypress, Texas, and we are one of the largest scale distributors.
Bench scale size: match the pan to the load
The item should sit fully on the pan without hanging over the edge. A 9 x 7.5 in pan suits bags, plates and small parts; 10 to 12 in pans suit trays and tubs; a 12 x 14 in platform takes small cartons and parts bins. If the load is longer than the pan or rolls on, step up to a platform scale.
Capacity and readability
- Capacity: add your heaviest item to the container or tray, then pick the next capacity up.
- Readability: pick the smallest step you need to see. Portioning and formulation want 0.005 lb or finer; parts and cartons work at 0.02 lb to 0.5 lb.
- Multi-range: scales like the HV-15KC232 read finer on the low range and coarser near full capacity, so small and large loads both read well.
- Data: RS-232C or USB sends weights to a printer, PC or shipping software; see connecting a scale to a computer.
Bench scale models compared at live prices
| Model | Capacity x readability | Pan | Key features | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A&D EK-15KLN | 33 lb x 0.005 lb (15 kg x 2 g); 0.1 g up to 3 kg after re-zero | 11.8 x 8.2 in stainless | NTEP Class III; counting and comparator; RS-232C; rechargeable battery about 100 hours | $595 |
| A&D HV-15KC232 | 6/15/30 lb x 0.002/0.005/0.01 lb | 9.8 x 9.8 in stainless | IP65 base; RS-232C installed; color comparator lights; counting; AC or 4 D batteries | $579 |
| A&D SJ-20KHS | 44 lb x 0.02 lb (20 kg x 10 g) | 9 x 7.5 in stainless, removable | 1 in LCD; stable in under 1 second; up to 800 hours on 4 D batteries | $195 |
| MNM Scales LP7611-1214-100LB | 100 lb x 0.02 lb | 12 x 14 in stainless pan | RS-232C; counting, checkweighing and hold; steel platform | $289 |
| Brecknell GP250 | 250 lb x 0.5 lb (110 kg x 0.2 kg) | 10.95 x 12.5 in, 2.2 in high | USB output; 9 V battery; 400 lb safe overload; 6 lb to carry | $98 |
Browse bench scales or A&D bench scales. Counting parts? See our counting scale guide. Portioning food? See our commercial food scale guide. Shipping heavier parcels? See our shipping scale guide.
Setting up a bench scale
- Place it on a solid, level bench away from fans, vents and vibration.
- Level it with the feet and the spirit level where fitted.
- Let it warm up, zero it with the pan empty, and tare any container.
- Check it with a known test weight near the load you weigh most.
Rules: NTEP for bench scales
Weighing for your own use, such as batching, counting stock or checking fills, is in-house weighing. Selling by weight or charging by weight is commercial, and the scale has to be legal for trade. In this guide the A&D EK-15KLN is NTEP Class III. For the other models, call us before using them for trade. Our NTEP guide explains the certificate, and we handle legal-for-trade scale calibration in Texas.
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
- EK-15KLN, HV-15KC232 and SJ-20KHS calibration add-ons: our TDA-registered technicians calibrate your scale in-house before it ships. Add in-house calibration with a certificate ($250) or NIST calibration with a NIST-traceable certificate ($595). See NIST vs in-house certificates.
- LP7611-1214-100LB and GP250 calibration: call for a quote.
- On-site service: $295 + $2 per mile per visit across the Houston area, plus calibration per scale; 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 bench scale fits? Tell us what you weigh, the heaviest load, the step you need and whether you sell by weight. We will match the scale and ship it calibrated. AC adapters, batteries and interface cables are not included unless the listing says so. Shop: 21249 FM 529 Rd, Cypress, TX 77433, visits by appointment.
Frequently asked questions
What is a bench scale?
A digital scale sized to sit on a counter or workbench, usually with a pan up to about 12 x 14 in and capacity up to a few hundred pounds.
What is the difference between a bench scale and a platform scale?
A bench scale sits on a counter and takes items that fit a small pan. A platform scale has a larger deck on the floor for cartons, totes and rolling loads.
What capacity bench scale should I buy?
Add your heaviest item to the container or tray and pick the next capacity up, then pick the finest readability you need inside that range.
Do I need an NTEP bench scale?
Only if you sell or charge by weight. In this guide the A&D EK-15KLN is NTEP Class III; call us for other legal-for-trade bench scales.
Can a bench scale connect to a computer?
Yes on many models. The EK-15KLN, HV-15KC232 and LP7611-1214-100LB have RS-232C, and the Brecknell GP250 has USB.
Do you calibrate bench scales?
Yes. For the EK-15KLN, HV-15KC232 and SJ-20KHS, in-house calibration with a certificate is $250 and NIST-traceable is $595. For other models, call for a quote.