The best bathroom scales track your body weight and, depending on their design, other measurements such as BMI and bone density. This is ideal if you want to monitor your data as part of a health and fitness regime, or if you want to keep an eye on your weight for other health reasons such as pregnancy. So whether you’re looking to lose, gain or maintain weight, investing in bathroom scales could help.
In fact, a study discovered that daily weigh-ins helped some people manage their weight better, but that won't be the right approach for everyone. If you do want to track your measurements regularly, we'd recommend buying smart scales. These are app-connected and designed to generate various graphs showing your progress over specific periods of time. Some can also be used with the best fitness trackers, giving you an overview of how effective your entire health and fitness routine is.
Many of the best bathroom scales store readings for several different users, making them a good choice for families. Most are battery powered too so they don't require mains power. You could stash one in your home gym, for example, or keep it in the bathroom for regular weigh-ins. All of the mechanical and smart scales featured below have clear displays with large, easy-to-read numbers. Most offer a choice of imperial or metric units to suit.
Some smart bathroom scales claim to record temperature, but we wouldn't rely on this and would instead recommend using one of the best digital thermometers. In terms of brands, Withings, Fitbit and QardioBase are just a few of the big names you’ll come across when shopping for smart scales, while Salter is the best choice for mechanical scales. A good set of bathroom scales needn’t cost a packet, but you can expect to pay over $100 for the premium models. Let’s take a look at the top-rated options now...
1. Withings Body+: Best bathroom scales overall
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When it comes to accuracy, innovation and style, Withings is one of best bathroom scales brands, followed closely by the likes of Fitbit and QardioBase (see further down). And its Body+ Smart Scale certainly maintains that reputation by offering plenty of features that go far beyond measuring just body weight.
Up to eight users can use the Withings Body+ Smart Scale to track factors such as body fat, water percentage and bone mass. Via the Withings Health app, each of you can create an individual profile, within which you can view historical data for your weigh-ins.
The Body+ syncs well with other wellness services including Apple Health and Google Fit. The Health Mate app also includes weather info and reminds you of your previous day’s step-count too, giving you an extra little nudge of encouragement to get out for a walk or run... and whether to pack an umbrella or not. If you want to keep your fitness indoors, using one of the best exercise bikes in an easy way to boost your cardio. Or, if you don't have space for exercise equipment, try one of the best online fitness programs.
2. Fitbit Aria Air: Best bathroom scales for Fitbit users
With its excellent range of wearable technology, US company Fitbit is synonymous with health tracking. And the Fitbit Aria Air smart scale is just as easy to use (and just as reliable as Fitbit's other wellness gadgets) when it comes to monitoring your weight and BMI, and charting your body goals progress.
Setup is a cinch too: simply connect the Aria Air scale to the Fitbit app via Bluetooth (wireless technology), then step on the scale. Your weigh-in data will automatically sync with your smartphone whenever your phone is nearby.
The Fitbit Aria Air automatically recognizes several different users, tracking stats for each of you and all while keeping all of that body weight and BMI information private inside each user's private user area in the Fitbit app. The app is laid out clearly too, and offers easy-to-read graphs and long-term trends data so that you can gain greater insight into your weight journey.
The Fitbit Aria Air is incredibly easy to use and set up, making this the best bathroom scale for those who are kickstarting a healthy and active lifestyle.
3. QardioBase 2: Best bathroom scales for pregnancy
Smart scales are great for tracking health and weight, but if you are pregnant it's wise to pick bathroom scales that don't use Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA), a technology that some smart scales use to monitor weight and other health metrics.
BIA doesn’t have any known health risks (though if you have a pacemaker, check with your doctor before using a scale containing this tech), but as an added precaution it is still recommended for pregnant women to avoid it.
That's why the QardioBase 2 smart scale includes an in-depth pregnancy mode, which enables moms-to-be to track their weekly weight. That, and you can add in photos of your growing bump for a quick and fun visual reference that you can look back on. Simply connect to the free Qardio app and you’ll be good to go in terms of monitoring your weight and documenting your changing body.
Another plus with the QardioBase 2 bathroom scale is that it's powered by a rechargeable battery that lasts 12 months between charges. That's plenty to see you through a pregnancy and beyond, making it the best bathroom scale if you don't want to fuss around with batteries. Ever.
4. Renpho Digital Scale: Best smart scale
This stylish smart scale by Renpho has a wide range of functions to keep you informed of your from body weight, water percentage, muscle mass and - here comes the scary bit - your metabolic age. The latter is how your basal metabolic rate (BMR), or how many calories your body burns when at rest, compares to the average BMR for people of your chronological age.
Download the Renpho companion app to your phone, then connect the Renpho Digital Bathroom Scale to app via Bluetooth. The bathroom scales will then automatically ping your weight data to the app so you can begin tracking it over the weeks and months. The Renpho also syncs with Samsung Health, Fitbit Health, Google Fit and Apple Health, so you can create a joined-up picture between your exercise and diet.
This Renpho bathroom scale also looks great with the sleek-looking ITO (Indium Tin Oxide) coating technology. What's that? ITO is designed to more sensitively and accurately detect body compositions and track any changes.
Available in black or white, Renpho’s do-it-all scale is a great option if you’re looking for reliable bathroom scales that are smart without commanding a small fortune. At over 12" square the platform is also spacious, though it might be too bulky for some.
5. Etekcity ESF24: Best bathroom scales for measuring body fat
If you need to monitor body fat, the Etekcity ESF24 Digital Bathroom Scale will make light work of it for you. The affordable ESF24 scale keeps track of several useful metrics including BMI, body fat, subcutaneous fat and visceral fat.
The scale itself has a steady surface and a clear, easy to read display. Step on with your bare feet and you will get accurate measurements picked up by the high-sensitivity sensors and electrodes within.
The Etekcity ESF24 Digital Bathroom Scale only displays weight, which is disappointing and means you have to load up Etekcity’s free VeSyncFit app to view the rest of your body tracking data, including body fat percentage.
However, even if you are not synced, the scale will still store up to 20 sets of data in a row, ensuring your weigh-in info doesn't get lost. And the data it collects is very accurate, with the body fat measurements being the most reliable out of many of the best bathroom scales.
The Etekcity ESF24 Digital Bathroom Scale scales are designed to measure up to 400lbs, and also come with a tape measure if you'd like to see how many inches you are losing or gaining on your waist, hips, arms and legs.
6. Salter Professional: Best mechanical bathroom scales
Salter’s Professional Analog Scales are tough, reliable, and have been put to use in bathrooms across the globe for many decades. So naturally it was our top choice for the best mechanical bathroom scales by some distance.
These ‘doctor’ style scales are accurate, no-nonsense and extremely sturdy. After an initial calibration (which involves removing a disposable key on the underside, then stepping on and off the scales a few times, before setting the pointer to zero), the scale is good to go.
Neat touches include an easy-to-read 7.5” diameter dial, with measurements displayed in both kilos and pounds. There's also a non-slip mat on a wide platform. Salter’s mechanical scales have a capacity of up to 400lbs too, making them ideal for users with a heavier body weight.
The obvious advantage with mechanical scales is that they will never run out of battery, so it’s always worth getting a virtually indestructible one like the Professional Analog Scales that are designed to last and last.
7. Weight Gurus Smart Scale: Best affordable bathroom scales
When it comes to weighing up your options in terms of functionality and price, the Greater Goods Weight Gurus Bluetooth Body Fat Smart Scale offers a lot of bang for your buck. At a fraction of the cost of some of the luxury models in our best bathroom scales guide, this sleek-looking smart scale accommodates up to eight users and provides tracking for body fat, weight, BMI, muscle mass and water mass.
It also works in tandem with Google Fit, Apple Health, My Fitness Pal and Fitbit Health, among other fitness services. The Weight Gurus Bluetooth Body Fat Smart Scale is also quick and easy to set up, and the display is bright and clear to read.
If you're looking for a reliable set of smart scales to use with your health apps and fitness tracker, and you don't have a big budget but still want some pro features, then Weight Gurus Bluetooth Body Fat Smart Scale is the best bathroom scale for you.
8. Inevifit Digital: Best bathroom scales for unlimited users
Unlike mechanical scales, where any number of people can be weighed, smart scales often have a limit to the number of users they track on their apps. The Inevifit Digital Bathroom Body Weight Scale sees no such barrier and will track body weight, BMI and more for an unlimited number of users.
The scale auto-calibrates with each weigh-in, so it's always ready for the next person, and the next person, and the next...
Ideal for larger communal bathrooms or bigger families, the Inevifit Digital Bathroom Body Weight Scale also comes with a five-year guarantee. It's superb value, and is just as economical when it comes to saving battery - it automatically switches off when not in use.
The Inevifit has a capacity of up to 440lbs and comes with a large display so you can read the numbers clearly. This is a smart, simple scale that does exactly what you need it to, and for everyone in your house.
The best bathroom scales prices
Best bathroom scales FAQ
How we chose the best bathroom scales
In order to test accuracy, we had our testers carry free weights onto the scales to see if the numbers accurately displayed the change. All of the scales except one measured within one pound of the user's weight. The more accuracy a scale achieved, the higher it scored in our evaluation. We also scored scales higher if they could handle more weight. The typical weight limit for most scales is around 400 pounds.
Since consistency is the only way to get accurate readings, we had our testers repeatedly step on the scales in quick succession to see if they gave the same weight each time. The most consistent products scored higher than the others.
We looked for various features, such as the number of user accounts a scale allowed, the various fitness metrics it recorded and the length of the warranty it came with. Scales that worked with both Apple and Android devices scored higher.
While evaluating an app's ease of use, we looked to see which health data was visible in chart and graph form. The more options it provided, the better. We looked for calorie and fitness trackers, as well as any additional body stats like BMI, muscle mass, bone density and hydration levels.
We also scored scales on their overall appearance. We scored scales higher if they were aesthetically pleasing while not drawing attention to themselves.
How to buy the best bathroom scales for you
Over the years, we have tested bathroom scales ranging in price from around $20 to over $250, with an average price coming in at around $140. Pricing is often based on a scale’s biometric readouts, its tracking capability, connectivity and associated apps.
Generally speaking, the more features and smarts a bathroom scale offers, the more it will cost you. Here's what to keep in mind when shopping for the best bathroom scale for you...
Connectivity
Most smart scales connect to your Wi-Fi in order to sync to your mobile device. Some only allow you to use the scale's proprietary app, while others can also sync to popular third-party apps such as Apple Health, MyFitnessPal, Amazon's Alexa app and Google Fit. You typically need to create a user account for a smart scale to work properly.
The user account maximum can vary from as few as one to an unlimited number, so you should make sure the scale you buy can accommodate your household. These scales can sometime identify who you are the minute you step on them and send the data to your phone, making updates incredibly easy.
Biometrics
In addition to measuring your weight, many smart scales measure body fat, lean mass, BMI, water weight and bone mass. Some even provide graphs and charts of your progress as you use them.
Some apps are more user-friendly than others, but most of them allow you to set goals and reminders to help you stay on track. These scales are designed to protect your privacy from other users, so your information is only shared if you want it to be.
Aesthetics
You should look for a scale that doesn't look out of place in your bathroom and won't get in the way of your day-to-day tasks. Most scales are around an inch tall, but they vary when it comes to length and width. Smaller scales can fit easier in a room, but they might not feel as comfortable for people with larger feet. The best warranties typically last for five years or more.
Bluetooth bathroom scales vs Wi-Fi scales
There are two wireless connectivity options for sending information from a smart scale to a mobile app: Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. The primary advantage of using a smart scale with Wi-Fi connectivity is that you don’t need to have your phone or fitness tracker near the scale to log a weigh-in.
Some of the Bluetooth scales we tested save the data until the next time you sync the device, but most of the cheaper Bluetooth scales do not. Wi-Fi scales send all the data a smart scale collects to fitness-tracking apps, regardless of where the device is located.
Another advantage of Wi-Fi scales is connection stability. Although the setup is a bit more involved for Wi-Fi smart scales, once these scales are connected to your home network, Wi-Fi connections are much more reliable than Bluetooth syncing. We noticed a huge volume of customer complaints about constant syncing issues with Bluetooth scales, even the ones that save data.
The only reason to consider a Bluetooth smart scale over a Wi-Fi scale is the cost. The best Bluetooth scale we tested is less than $50, and there are several cheaper models available. In contrast, the best Wi-Fi scales in our test group range from $100 to $200.
If you're serious about tracking your weight using a smart scale and companion fitness app, we suggest using a Wi-Fi-enabled scale because it will ensure consistent tracking without requiring you to keep your devices close by.
Best bathroom scales: What is body composition?
Some scales measure more than just your body weight. Body composition is an important aspect of your overall health, as your weight is made up of not just fat, but muscle, liquids and other things that are an important part of keeping you healthy.
Some scales measure your body composition and will tell you how much fat, protein, minerals and water your body is made of. This way if you're trying to shrink your waistline you can watch for your fat mass to decrease while your muscle mass increases. Seeing your overall weight increase a little isn't always a bad thing, as muscle mass weighs more than fat.
Having a very high percentage of fat in your body can cause health problems including hypertension, respiratory issues and gallbladder disease. Using a scale to tell you how your body weight is broken down can be an extremely important tool for staying healthy and avoiding doctor visits.
Using a body composition scale to monitor your muscle growth can also be extremely helpful for athletes or those participating in professional bodybuilding. Knowing what’s going on inside your body is key to meeting your weight or fitness goals, and body composition is a big part of that.
How to clean bathroom scales
It's easy to forget about your bathroom scale once you find a place to keep it. However, you should keep it clean so that it continues to be accurate and quick. Use a small brush or cloth to wipe away dust weekly, and keep the surface of the scale clean. If this doesn't quite do the trick, try using a damp cloth.
It’s important not to get the scale too wet, particularly if it has batteries. Clean gently; pressing too hard on the scale's pan can mess up the weighing mechanism and cause your scale to display incorrectly.
Never turn it upside down and apply a lot of pressure. If you've removed the batteries for a while, it's important to calibrate the scale when you reinstall the batteries. Some scales do this automatically, but others include instructions for how to do so.
Finally, to make sure your scale gives you an accurate readout, weigh the same item repeatedly and ensure the readings are identical. As with any household appliance, keeping your scale clean and free of debris will give it a longer and more useful life.
Enjoy keeping fit outdoors? Then take a look at our guides to the best bike trainers for turning your road bike into a fitness machine, and the best bike computers for tracking your rides.
