Every espresso addict knows that in order to make the perfect cup every time you need to monitor the weight and brew time of each shot. Most true espresso aficionados use a high accuracy digital scale often with a built in timing function. Although it is expensive, the Acaia line of dedicated coffee scales is one of the best choices. There are three major versions of the Acaia: the Pearl, Lunar and Pyxis. Of these, the smallest and most compact is the Pyxis which is just a 2.6” by 2.6” square and .51” tall. Like all Acaia scales, the Pyxis also connects via Bluetooth to Acaia free apps such as Brewguide, Brewmaster, and Coffee.

The Acaia Pyxis can weigh your beans or espresso grinding to 1/100 of a gram. But its real task is to sit under your portafilter so that you can weigh your shot as it is being pulled. Besides a fast response scale, it also displays shot time. It can detect the first drop of espresso and automatically start its timer.

The scale is water resistant and can be easily cleaned. It is powered by a built-in rechargeable battery with more than seven hours of runtime before needing a charge. It also includes a 100 gram calibration weight to make sure your scale remains accurate. The only disadvantage to this scale is the price which is a steep $250. That’s a lot to pay for a scale which is why many consider the following alternatives.

Mauxs Espresso Scale with Timer

This is a no-nonsense compact scale that offers decent accuracy and a built-in timer. The Mauxs looks like a jeweler’s scale and includes a protective cover that can also double as a tray. It’s perfect for weighing coffee beans or grounds and is accurate to 1/10 of a gram. When you are ready to pull a shot, the Mauxs will easily fit under your portafilter. Measuring in at a svelte 2.7” by 4.75” and .7” tall, this compact digital scale will sit nicely under any espresso machine.

But the real feature is the built-in timer. While it does not have auto start and you need to press a button when you see the first drop, for some that is actually an advantage since you can account for preinfusion. The Mauxs is powered by two AAA batteries. Best of all you get all of this for $12.

Brewista Smart Scale II

The Brewista Smart Scale is about twice the footprint of the diminutive Pyxis but still fits easily under any espresso machine’s portafilter. It measures 4.14” by 4.96” and .7” tall. It also comes with a removable waterproof silicone weighing tray.

The Brewista Smart Scale has the modern look of the Pyxis and offers high resolution accuracy to within 1/10 of a gram. The scale also features an auto time function which will start the timer when it detects the first drop of espresso. The Brewista does not offer app connectivity but does have six built-in modes of which five are for espresso and one for manual.

Similar to the Acaia Pyxis, the Brewista Smart Scale has a USB rechargeable battery. The Brewista smart scale has an MSRP of $89.

GreaterGoods Digital Pocket Scale

This last alternative does away with the timing function and just does weight. However, it does it so well that you might be fine using your watch or phone as a timer. The GreaterGoods scale is super consistent and accurate to within 1/10 of a gram. The compact size of 5.67” long by 3” wide and .67" tall allows it to work with any espresso machine. The stainless-steel weighing surface is easy to clean and lends a nice modern look.

The GreaterGoods scale uses 2 AAA batteries which are included. This basic but reliable workhorse of a scale is just $15.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are some excellent espresso oriented digital scales that don't cost anywhere near the Acaia Pyxis. If you do not plan on using the Acaia apps, then any of the above would make perfect alternatives and save you a lot of money.

What do you think? Have some additional suggestions for a digital scale? Share your thoughts in the comments below.