Balances - Portable News

Portable balances are widely used in laboratory environments where flexibility, mobility, and quick measurements are required. Commonly found in research laboratories, quality control facilities, educational institutions, and field laboratories, portable balances provide reliable weighing performance in a compact and lightweight format. Selecting the right portable balance ensures accurate results, ease of use, and efficient laboratory workflows.  

🔍 Key Considerations When Selecting a Portable Balance
1. Readability and Accuracy
Readability refers to the smallest weight increment a balance can display. Typical portable laboratory balances offer readability ranging from 0.1 g to 0.001 g, depending on the application.
- Routine weighing may only require 0.1 g readability
- Analytical or formulation work may need higher precision
Accuracy and repeatability are critical for consistent laboratory results.  
2. Weighing Capacity
Choose a balance with a maximum capacity that suits your samples:
- Low capacity (200–500 g) – Suitable for powders, reagents, and small samples
- Medium capacity (1–3 kg) – Ideal for general laboratory use
- High capacity (5 kg and above) – Useful for bulk samples or containers
Selecting the correct capacity prevents overloading and improves long-term reliability.  
3. Portability and Power Options
Portable balances are designed for use in multiple locations. Key features include:
- Lightweight construction
- Compact footprint
- Battery-powered operation, often with optional mains adapters
Battery life and recharge time should be considered for fieldwork or mobile laboratory applications. 
4. Environmental Protection and Stability
Laboratory and field environments can be subject to vibration, drafts, and temperature changes. Look for features such as:
- Adjustable feet and level indicators
- Draft shields for increased weighing stability
- Overload protection to prevent damage
These features help maintain accuracy in less controlled environments.  
5. User Interface and Functions
Modern portable balances often include multiple weighing modes, such as:
- Basic weighing
- Parts counting
- Percentage weighing
- Check weighing
Clear displays and intuitive controls improve efficiency, particularly in fast-paced laboratory settings.  
6. Calibration Options
Portable balances may offer:
- External calibration – Manual calibration using certified weights
- Internal calibration – Automated calibration for improved convenience and consistency Regular calibration is essential to ensure compliance with laboratory quality standards.
7. Connectivity and Data Handling
Many balances now include USB or RS232 interfaces, enabling data transfer to laboratory information management systems (LIMS), printers, or computers. This supports traceability, documentation, and GLP/GMP compliance.  

🛠 Example: Ohaus Portable Balances
Ohaus is a well-established manufacturer of laboratory weighing equipment, offering a range of portable balances designed for precision, durability, and ease of use. Examples include:
- Ohaus Scout Series – Compact and fast-stabilising portable balances suitable for routine laboratory and educational use.
- Ohaus Navigator Series – Robust balances with higher capacity and advanced weighing modes for quality control and industrial laboratories.
- Ohaus Compass Series – Lightweight and battery-operated, ideal for mobile or field laboratory applications.
These examples illustrate the types of portable balance features available across the market.  

💡 Quick Buying Tips
- Select readability and capacity based on your laboratory application.
- Choose battery-powered models for mobile or field use.
- Ensure calibration options meet your quality requirements.
- Consider connectivity for data logging and traceability.
- Look for durable construction and overload protection.  

🤔 Need Expert Help?
If you are unsure which portable balance best suits your laboratory workflow, please consult one of our sales team who will be happy to talk through your requirements. You can find best contact details at https://www.wolflabs.co.uk/contact-us

Introduction
Cole-Parmer PB-350 Series of Portable Balances from Wolflabs.
The PB-350 series of balances offer precision and portability in a rugged housing that can stand up to demanding environments. From the classroom to the field to the manufacturing floor, PB-350 series balances are built to go anywhere that you need.

Features and benefits
- Long-lasting Internal Battery
- Rugged Housing
- Internal or External calibration options
- Onboard memory storage and processing
- Multiple connectivity

New Portable Balances added from Sartorius, Models include: AY10000, AY1501, AY212, AY3101, AY4000, AY412, AY5101, AY511, AY6000, AY612, AY711, AZ1502, AZ2101, AZ212, AZ4101, AZ6101, and AZ612

Wolflabs Sartorius :: Balances - Portable - Special Offer OFFER ENDS 2012-12-24

A new range of portable balances from Kern & Sohn has been added to the website

Discounts of almost 40% - http://www.wolflabs.co.uk/laboratory-products/balances-portable

The product comparison page has been updated to show further information on our portable balances. This includes whether the units have a touch screen, guided levelling and what the stabilization time is.

New SKX and STX Scout series portable balances from Ohaus have been added.

New PCB series portable balances from Kern have been added. The PCB is a compact laboratory balance with a PRE-TARE function for manual subtraction of a known container weight, useful for checking fill-levels. It is a freely programmable weighing unit e.g. display direct in special units such as length of thread g/m, paper weight g/m 2, or similar. The percentage determination makes it possible to store a given weight value (100 %) and to determine deviations from this target value.

Introduction
New EJ, EK-EP and EK-i series portable balances from A and D Instruments have been added. 

Features and benefits
EJ
- Unique and eye-catching color design.
- Hygienic and rustproof stainless steel pan.
- Supports multiple weighing units.
- Slot in the rear for an anti-theft lock.
- Stackable body to save storage space.
- Calculates density automatically. (The optional density determination kit (EJ-13) is required.)

EK-EP
- Compact, lightweight and extremely affordable while providing excellent explosion protection
- Battery operation (approx. 250 hours) for high portability, requiring no power supply from a safe area via a safety barrier
- Auto power OFF function to save battery power
- Easy-to-read LCD display with backlight (16 mm character height)
- Hygienic and chemically resistant stainless steel (SUS304) weighing pan
- Multiple weighing units: g, oz, lb, ozt, ct, mom, dwt, gr, N, in addition to pcs (counting mode), % (percent mode) and SG (specific gravity)
- Comparator function for faster and more accurate filling, packing, sorting, etc.
- Adjustable response characteristics depending on the degree of drafts and vibrations at the location
- Security ring for wire-locking the balance to prevent theft

EK-i
- Wide selection of 16 different models 30g ~ 12kg
- Large LCD display (16mm height) with back light – easy to read even at a wide viewing angle or dark environment
- Control zero, mode selection and data output with standard RS-232C
- Triple range weighing for EW- i series
- 9 built-in weighing units plus counting & percentage with user priority start-up
- Counting function with Automatic Counting Accuracy Improvement
- Standard comparator function – HI/OK/LO annunciator
- Full Digital Calibration with optional user definable mass setting
- Conformity to GLP with I.D. and serial number outputs
- Auto Power OFF
- Portable-compact size, light weight, rugged body
- Sealed key panel protection against dust and spills
- Low profile and small footprint for any space requirement
- Overload protection
- Stainless steel weighing pan
- Easy to install rechargeable Ni-MH battery (Optional)
- Optional underhook weighing for EK-4100i/6100i/6000i/12Ki, EW-12Ki
- Leveling feet and level bubble for accurate weighing
- Security ring to prevent theft

Discounts of almost 25% - http://www.wolflabs.co.uk/laboratory-products/balances-portable

Introduction
Kern & Sohn PFB portable balances from Wolflabs. Quick-displaying precision balance with user-friendly operation modes and EC type approval.

Features and benefits
- Easy to use: All primary functions have their own key on the keypad
- Compact size, practical for small spaces
- Capacity display: A bar lights up to show how much of the weighing range is still available
- Level indicator and levelling feet for precise levelling of the scale, fitted as standard, to give the most accurate weighing results
- Separate second display standard for models PFB 600-1M and PFB 6000-0M. Suitable for direct sales to the public. The verification value is the same as the readout. Large backlit LCD display, digit height 16 mm. Interface cable to the balance, cable length approx. 1 m, standard. Dimensions WxDxH 250x180x105 mm

Introduction
Ohaus Traveler TA301 portable balance from Wolflabs. The Ohaus Traveler Series was designed with a unique draftshield that offers weigh-thru capability while being used and ‘stackability’ when being stored. With the right combination of performance and features, the Traveler is great value for your basic weighing applications.

Features and benefits
- Weigh-Thru Draftshield – Traveler’s unique draftshield was designed with an easy to remove center piece – that provides protection from rough environments while maintaining weighing speed
- Stackable Draftshield – Traveler’s unique draftshield was designed with storage in mind, and allows the balances to be stacked away when not in use. The draftshield’s center piece can also be removed and converts into a weigh boat when turned upside down
- USB or RS232 Connectivity – Traveler was designed with easy-to-install interface options, which provide weight output to an OHAUS printer or PC
- Battery or AC Power – Uses 4 “AA” batteries with auto shut-off, or can be run on the included AC powerpack

Introduction
Ohaus Traveler portable balances from Wolflabs. The Ohaus Traveler Series was designed with a unique draftshield that offers weigh-thru capability while being used and ‘stackability’ when being stored. With the right combination of performance and features, the Traveler is great value for your basic weighing applications. 

Features and benefits
- Traveler’s unique draftshield was designed with an easy to remove center piece that provides protection from rough environments while maintaining weighing speed.
- Traveler’s unique draftshield was designed with storage in mind, and allows the balances to be stacked away when not in use. The draftshield’s center piece can also be removed and converts into a weigh boat when turned upside down!
- Traveler was designed with easy-to-install interface options, which provide weight output to an OHAUS printer or PC.
- Uses 4 “AA” batteries with auto shut-off, or can be run on the included AC powerpack.

Discounts of almost 30% - http://www.wolflabs.co.uk/laboratory-products/balances-portable

New CB, HCB and DCT series of portable balances from Adam Equipment have been added. 

Introduction
Ohaus Navigator portable balances from Wolflabs. The Navigator series offers a unique combination of features, including touchless sensors, ultra-fast response time and superior overload protection for use in a wide variety of weighing applications.

Features and benefits
- Navigator is designed with two touchless sensors that will free up your hands so you can focus on handling samples. The touch-free control of the zero, print, function or tare operations helps to avoid transferring sample residue to the keypad. In addition, the two sensors can be set up independently to control up to 36 combinations of operations.
- Navigator is designed to accurately stabilize in less than one second to provide fast and accurate weighing results, improving operator efficiency, productivity and throughput.
- Navigator is designed with a superior mechanical overload protection system that allows the scale to withstand loads up to 400% of its rated capacity. This prevents damage to the scale and helps it withstand undue shock or overloading. In addition, an integrated shipping lock further protects the weighing cell from damage during transportation or storage.
- Navigator is designed with LCD or LED displays to provide the best visibility in any lighting condition. Whether you use the Navigator indoor or or outdoor, the display is also designed with large numeric segments and unit indicators to make the weighing results easy to read.

Introduction
Adam Equipment CB series of portable balances from Wolflabs. Easy to transport and store, the CB balance delivers performance with compact portability. Battery operation means it can be used anywhere, while auto power-off helps conserve power. A sealed keypad and one-piece housing are simple to clean. The grade 304 stainless steel pan can be wiped down quickly and accommodates either single items or bulk powders. A backlit display shows the user the weight and remaining battery level. An optional power adapter is available.

Features and benefits
- Vivid, backlit LCD easily visible in any lighting conditions
- Large, grade 304 stainless steel pan allows easy cleaning
- Lightweight design simplifies transport and portability
- Sealed keypad protects against dirt and spills
- Level indicator and adjustable feet ensure proper balance setup for optimum weighing results
- External calibration allows for verification and adjustment with weights
- Simple operation allows quick startup and use with little or no training
- Zero-tracking feature ensures display returns to zero reading
- Low-battery indicator alerts users when batteries need replacement
- 6VDC 200mA Adapter
- Operates with AC adapter (not included) or batteries (included)

Discounts of almost 30% - https://www.wolflabs.co.uk/laboratory-products/balances-portable

Balance portable Kern PCB350-3 max capacity 350g, readability 0.001g, external calibration, pan diameter 81mm
Balance portable Kern PCB1000-2 max capacity 1000g, readability 0.01g, external calibration, pan diemensions 130w x 130d mm
Balance portable Kern PCB3500-2 max capacity 3500g, readability 0.01g, external calibration, pan dimensions 130w x 130d mm
Balance portable Kern PCB2000-1 max capacity 2000g, readability 0.1g, external calibration, pan dimensions 130w x 130d mm

Introduction
Adam Equipment DCT portable balances from Wolflabs. The Dune series offers all of the necessary features for quick and easy weighing. Every Dune is equipped with an AC adapter, auto calibration through the keypad, low battery indicator, and overload indicator. With its alternate battery operation, splash-proof keypad, and sturdy plastic construction throughout, the Dune delivers accurate readings in field, classroom, workplace or lab, a truly versatile and portable product.

Features and benefits
- High-contrast display is easily visible from a distance
- Colour-coded keys facilitate quick recognition of the most frequently used buttons
- Lightweight design simplifies transport and portability
- Overload protection helps prevent damage to internal components
- Sealed keypad protects against dirt and spills
- Large platform removes easily for speedy cleaning
- Auto power-off to save energy
- Zero-tracking feature ensures display returns to zero reading
- Operates with AC adapter (included) or batteries (not included)

Introduction
Ohaus Scout SKX series of portable balances from Wolflabs. Designed for education applications, the OHAUS Scout with large backlit LCD backed by education software is the ideal balance for your classroom. It is built to endure demanding classroom applications with superior overload protection. Features including, faster stabilization time, increased capacity, multiple connectivity options and stackable design make Scout the best weighing experience for the next generation classroom.

Features and benefits
- Weighing, Density Determination, Mole Weighing
- Liquid crystal display (LCD) with backlight
- AC Adapter (Included) or 4 AA Batteries (Not included)
- RS232, USB Host, USB Device, Ethernet or Bluetooth (available as an accessory)
- ABS housing, stainless steel pan, ABS draftshield (1mg model only), weigh below hook, transportation lock, manual calibration lock switch, security slot
- Stability indicator, stackable design with included storage cover (excluding 1mg model), mechanical and software overload/underload protection, low battery indicator, auto shut-off, auto tare, span calibration mass included on models up to 620g capacity

Introduction
Kern & Sohn PCB portable balances from Wolflabs. 

Features and benefits
- PRE-TARE function for manual subtraction of a known container weight, useful for checking fill-levels
- Freely programmable weighing unit, e.g. display direct in special units such as length of thread g/m, paper weight g/m2 , or similar
- Percentage determination: makes it possible to store a given weight value (100%) and to determine deviations from this target value
- Ring-shaped draught shield standard, only for models with weighing plate size , weighing space ØxH 90x40 mm

Introduction
A & D Instruments EJ series of portable balances from Wolflabs. The EJ Series compact balances are specifically designed for on-line and catalog sales. Their performance and functions are also ideally suited for the education market.

Features and benefits
- Unique and eye-catching color design.
- Hygienic and rustproof stainless steel pan.
- Supports multiple weighing units.
- Slot in the rear for an anti-theft lock.
- Stackable body to save storage space.
- Calculates density automatically.

Introduction
Adam Equipment HCB Highland portable balances from Wolflabs. Adam Equipment’s Highland balances have what it takes for lab work, field use, and various education and industrial applications. They feature multiple weighing units, RS-232 and USB interfaces, rechargeable battery and AC operation, capacity tracker, adjustable feet and level, lock down and more. Density and specific gravity determination are easy with the below balance weighing feature, and the removable draft shield eliminates wind disturbances outdoors or in drafty environments.

Features and benefits
- Vivid, backlit LCD easily visible in any lighting conditions
- Programmable backlight can be set to "always on," "always off" or "light only when weighing"
- Capacity tracker built into display for easily monitoring possible overloads
- Balances stack efficiently and safely to save space (120mm pan size only)
- Colour-coded keys facilitate quick recognition of the most frequently used buttons
- Dual tare keys facilitate operation with either the left or right hand
- Level indicator and adjustable feet ensure proper balance setup for optimum weighing results
- Security slot for optional Kensington-type lock and cable to help prevent theft
- Large, grade 304 stainless steel pan allows easy cleaning
- Solid ABS housing is durable for industrial uses
- Three-point ShockProtect feature helps prevent overload damage to internal components
- Hook included for weighing below the balance
- Internal calibration eliminates need for external weight set
- USB and RS-232 interfaces provide speedy communication with computers and printers
- Audible overload alarm warns when capacity has been exceeded
- External calibration allows for verification and adjustment with weights
- Selectable digital filtering helps minimise effects of vibration and disturbances
- Parts counting with preset sample sizes
- Memory accumulation totals results
- Zero-tracking feature ensures display returns to zero reading
- AC adapter included
- Rechargeable battery included for operation almost anywhere
- Programmable auto power-off to save energy

Discounts of over 35% - https://www.wolflabs.co.uk/laboratory-products/balances-portable

Balance portable Kern PFB300-3 max capacity 300g, readability 0.001g, external calibration, pan diameter 80mm

Discounts of almost 30% - https://www.wolflabs.co.uk/laboratory-products/balances-portable

Balance portable Kern PFB120-3 max capacity 120g, readability 0.001g, external calibration, pan diameter 80mm
Balance portable Kern PCB2500-2 max capacity 2500g, readability 0.01g, external calibration, pan dimensions 130w x 130d mm

Introduction
Ohaus Navigator poratable balance models from Wolflabs. 

Features and benefits
- LCD or LED Display Options.
- Stabilizes in less than one second to provide fast, accurate and repeatable weighing results.
- Built to hold up to serious loads, the superior mechanical overload protection system enables the scale to safely bear loads up to 4 times its rated capacity. 
- Constructed of a high-strength 304 type stainless steel pan and impact-resistant ABS plastic housing that helps the scale stand up to years of use or abuse.
- The touchless sensors minimize the need to press the keypad with your hand, a knife or other sharp objects, reducing wear and tear of the keypad and increasing the effective life of the scale.
- A polished stainless steel pan, corrosion-free plastic housing and spill-resistant pan sub-assembly embodies a hygienic design that is easy to clean.

Introduction
Ohaus TA302 portable balance from Wolflabs.

Features and benefits   
- Designed with easy-to-install interface options.
- Designed with storage in mind allowing balances to be stacked away when not in use.
- Designed with an easy to remove center piece which provides protection from rough environments while maintaining weighing speed.

Discounts of over 25% - https://www.wolflabs.co.uk/laboratory-products/balances-portable

Balance portable A & D Instruments EK-2000i max capacity 2000g, readability 0.1g, internal calibration, pan dimensions 170w x 133d mm

Introduction
New Ohaus SKX422 portable balance from Wolflabs have been added.

Features and benefits
- Practical stackable design for convenient storage.
- Improved functionality with bright backlit LCD and 4 button operation.
- Multiple connectivity options available for data logging and communication.
- Fast weighing speed and high resolution deliver repeatable and reliable results.

Introduction
Ohaus Traveler TA152 portable balance from Wolflabs.

Features and benefits
- Has a unique draftshield which is designed with an easy to remove center piece, that provides protection from rough environments while maintaining weighing speed.
- Designed with storage in mind allowing the user to stack the balances when not in use.
- Designed with easy-to-install interface options.

New TGC portable balances from Kern & Sohn have been added.

Introduction
Ohaus Scout SKX222 portable balance from Wolflabs. This balance is built to endure demanding classroom applications with superior overload protection. Features including faster stabilization time, increased capacity, multiple connectivity options and stackable design make Scout the best weighing experience.

Features and benefits
- Fast weighing speed and high resolution deliver repeatable and reliable results.
- Multiple connectivity options available for data logging and communication.
- Improved functionality with bright backlit LCD and four button operation.
- Superior overload protection and practical stackable design for convenient storage.

Introduction
Ohaus STX621 portable balance from Wolflabs. deal for laboratory & industrial applications, the OHAUS Scout features an easy to navigate color touchscreen display & a slim design which allows stackable storage. Geared for superior performance with fast stabilization time and high resolution weighing results, these portable balances set a new standard for a broad range of weighing applications. Features also include superior overload protection and expanded connectivity options.

Features and benefits
- Fast weighing speed and high resolution deliver repeatable and reliable results.
- Superior overload protection & stackable storage drive overall durability.
- Multiple weighing modes and languages for simplified weighing.

Introduction
Ohaus Compass CR5200 portable balance from Wolflabs. The Compass CR series provides basic weighing functionality and competitive performance at an economical price. Features such as a slim, stackable design, and an enlarged weighing platform, make the CR series perfect for a variety of portable weighing applications.

Features and benefits
- Space-saving stackable design for convenient storage.
- Enlarged weighing platform allows for versatile use.

Introduction
Ohaus NV221 portable balance from Wolflabs. The Navigator NV221 is perfect for general weighing applications in laboratory, industrial and education settings.

Features and benefits
- High accuracy. 
- Fast stabilization time.
- High durability.
- Mechanical overload protection.

Introduction
Adam Equipment DCT 601 portable balance from Wolflabs.

Features and benefits
- High-contrast display is easily visible from a distance.
- Colour-coded keys facilitate quick recognition of the most frequently used buttons.
- Lightweight design simplifies transport and portability.
- Overload protection helps prevent damage to internal components.
- Sealed keypad protects against dirt and spills.
- Large platform removes easily for speedy cleaning.

Introduction
Kern & Sohn PLJ 420-3F portable balance from Wolflabs.

Features and benefits
- Ergonomically optimised keypad for left and righthanded users.
- Automatic internal adjustment, guarantees high degree of accuracy and makes the balance independent of its location of use.
- Glass draught shield.
- Comes with protective working cover.

New EK-300AEP, EK-3000AEP, EK-12KAEP, EK-12KAEP portable balances from A & D Instruments have been added.

New Navigator NV and NVT portable balances from Ohaus have been added.

Introduction
Ohaus Pioneer Portable Balances from Wolflabs.

Features and benefits
- Backlit LCD display
- High accuracy and repeatability
- USB/RS232 connectivity
- Durably constructed for versatile, long-term use
- Featuring a cast metal lower housing, sub-pan and stainless steel weighing pan

6 Balance Tips in Line with Sustainability

We have six tips on how to run your portable balance more sustainably.
To read the tips Click Here