I use this scale frequently. It functions consistently well. The accuracy is within the stated limits and the readings are reliable. The display has very large output window and numerals which is especially important to me. I also appreciate the connection to a/c current -- many small scales allow use only with batteries. The primary controls are intuitive, but there are special functions the use of which is not immediately clear without careful reading the instruction guide, and, like so many products these days, the print in the guide is EXTREMELY small. [Seniors and those with vision issues should keep this fact in mind.] The scale comes in two main pieces -- the scale and the bowl. The bowl is especially good for weighing items that tend to spill. However, this presents a storage issue since the two parts are very different in size and shape. If the scale remains on the counter, then there is no problem; however, if storage is required, it may be difficult to find an entirely appropriate location for both items together. The lid is hinged and flips up to open which can present some counter space problems, but at least you can be sure the lid will not be misplaced! If you are going to store this scale, then keep the original box to put it in! One final issue, the scale comes with two calibration weights. One weight was defective -- the small plug sealing the weight after final calibration had come loose and the lead insert had fallen out of the larger weight. I was able to reinsert the lead piece, but the plug will not remain in place. Going through the process of returns is more than I want, so I will keep it as it is; however, the indication is that manufacturing quality control is not doing a top notch job. I still give this scale a five star rating not only because of the reasons [pro] stated above but also because this is my third AWS scale, and all have proved most suitable for purpose intended and quite durable. AWS produces a fine scale at a reasonable price. Read more
I have to admit, when I saw the two poor reviews for this scale here on Amazon, and did not see many reviews elsewhere online, I was skeptical in trying it out. I talked with American Weigh customer support a couple of times about this scale and a couple of others before buying, and decided based on that I would take the plunge and try this one out. My decision was down to this scale, the Pro-200, the SM-501 or the AWS-100. (all are .01g scales) I wanted more capacity than the 100g and 200g options offered, and that too was a factor in my decision. One thing that made me hesitant also on this one was price - the 100 / 200g options could be had for under $20, and the cheapest I could find this one for was the $54 retail price. One advantage to this scale is that it comes with two (2) 200g calibration weights, for a total of 400g. These weights can cost as much as $8 a piece, so having them included was nice for this scale, and for other applications where having calibration weights is nice to have. Bottom line after using for a week - this is a nice, accurate scale. It has some things I don't like about it, but they are outweighed by the scales strengths in my opinion. Pro's: - Very accurate scale. It is also very sensitive as a result - if you wave your hand over the scale, or blow on it, it will register and you will see the weight fluctuate. But given it is .01g precision, it almost has to be that sensitive! To me that is a good thing. - Operates on AA batteries AND comes with a 120V power adapter. Since one of my requirements for a scale was to use it for a couple hours straight, that was important. - Measures in grains as well as grams. Again, that was important to me for my needs. - Display lights up when needed and the numbers are large and easy to read. - It registers the weight or change in weight VERY quickly. Many scales take a couple of seconds to read out accurately, especially when adding more weight to an already existing load. Not this one, it registers weight or change in weight quickly. Con's: - I don't like the lid - it says in the ad it was removable, but I have not tried to yet. On the flipside, the lid protects the platform when the scale is not in use, so maybe I will leave it. - The weighing platform is plastic and not stainless. I like stainless better, but not a showstopper. - The scale is entirely plastic - would have preferred more metal on the body of the scale. At this point I am happy with the purchase. I will update later if my feelings change, or if the scale turns out to not be durable, etc. For now, five stars! Read more
