Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale

Everything You Need to Know Before Purchasing This Popular Kitchen Scale

Kitchen scales are an essential tool for any home cook or baker. With the ability to accurately measure ingredients down to the gram, a good kitchen scale takes the guesswork out of recipe creation and helps ensure baking success. One of the most popular digital kitchen scales on the market is the Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale.

With its sleek, modern design and wide range of handy features, it’s easy to see why the Escali Primo scale is a favorite of many home cooks. But before purchasing this kitchen scale, it’s important to understand exactly how it works and what sets it apart from other models. This buying guide covers everything you need to know about the Escali Primo kitchen scale before you buy.

An Overview of the Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale

The Escali Primo kitchen scale delivers precision and convenience in a compact, lightweight design. It features an easy-to-read digital display that shows measurements in grams, ounces, and pounds. The scale weighs up to 11 pounds in increments of 0.1 oz/1 g.

It has a smooth, stainless steel platform that provides ample room for weighing ingredients. The scale runs on 2 AAA batteries, which are included. It also has an automatic shutoff feature that turns the scale off after 2 minutes of inactivity to preserve battery life.

Key features of the Escali Primo digital scale include:

• Sleek, modern design with stainless steel platform
• Large, backlit digital display
• Measures in grams, ounces, and pounds
• Weighs up to 11 pounds in 0.1 oz or 1 g increments
• Automatic shutoff after 2 minutes of inactivity
• Runs on 2 AAA batteries (included)
• Small footprint takes up minimal counter space

How Does the Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale Work?

The Escali Primo kitchen scale uses highly precise strain gauge sensors to provide accurate weight measurements. Strain gauge load cells convert the force of an object’s mass on the weighing platform into an electrical signal that’s proportional to the mass. The microprocessor takes this signal and uses it to calculate the weight, which is displayed on the digital screen.

When an item is placed on the weighing platform, the force triggers the sensitive load cells and the weight immediately registers on the display. The tare button allows you to subtract the weight of a container, returning the readout to zero so you can add ingredients to be weighed.

The Escali Primo scale is powered by two AAA batteries. When batteries start to run low, the display will show “LO” indicating it’s time to replace the batteries.

Key Features and Benefits of the Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale

Accurate and precise measurements – The Escali Primo kitchen scale delivers weights down to 0.1 oz or 1 gram increments, providing the precision needed for recipes. The accuracy has been independently tested and confirmed.

Easy-to-read display – The large digital display features big numbers that are easy to read. The backlight illuminates the display, making it visible in any lighting.

Measures in multiple units – The scale can display measurements in grams, ounces, and pounds. Convenient unit conversion allows you to weigh items according to your specific need.

Generous weighing capacity – With the ability to weigh up to 11 pounds (5 kilograms), this scale works for small and large ingredients and can handle the weight of most mixing bowls.

Tare/zero function – The tare button zeros out the weight of any container, allowing you to get an accurate net weight of ingredients added. This essential feature eliminates the math of subtracting container weights.

Auto shutoff – To preserve battery life, the Escali Primo scale automatically shuts off after 2 minutes of inactivity. This helps prolong battery life for portable use.

Compact size – The slim profile and small footprint allow the scale to be easily stored in a drawer or cabinet without taking up much space. It’s also perfect for food bloggers, chefs, and cooks with limited counter space.

Stainless steel platform – The smooth stainless steel weighing platform provides a durable, hygienic surface for food. It’s easy to keep clean and won’t harbor bacteria.

How Accurate Is the Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale?

The Escali Primo kitchen scale is designed to provide highly accurate measurements for cooking and baking. Independent tests confirm its accuracy to be within 0.1 oz /1 g. This level of accuracy meets or exceeds the precision of scales several times its price.

For such an affordable scale, the Escali Primo performs incredibly well in terms of accuracy. As long as the scale is placed on a flat, stable surface and properly calibrated, it will reliably measure ingredients to the exact gram or ounce.

The accuracy does start to decline when measuring very light items under 1 gram or 0.1 oz. But for most cooking, baking, and food weighing needs, the Escali Primo delivers all the accuracy you need with very impressive precision.

How to Properly Calibrate the Escali Primo Kitchen Scale

Like any precision scale, the Escali Primo needs to be properly calibrated periodically to ensure the accuracy of the measurements. Calibration is recommended if you notice the weights seem slightly off or anytime you move the scale to a different location.

Here is how to calibrate the Escali Primo scale:

1. With the scale turned off, press and hold the Unit button.
2. While still holding the button, tap the On/Off button to turn the scale on.
3. The display will show “CAL” to indicate it has entered calibration mode.
4. When “CAL” changes to “0.0”, release both buttons.
5. Place a 100 gram or 10 ounce calibration weight (not included) on the center of the platform.
6. Once the displayed weight locks in, calibration is complete. The scale will turn off automatically.
7. Calibration is now complete and your scale is ready to accurately weigh ingredients.

Calibration restores accuracy and only takes a moment. Be sure to use an accurate calibration weight for best results.

What is the Maximum Weight Capacity?

The Escali Primo kitchen scale has a maximum weighing capacity of 11 pounds or 5 kilograms. This generous capacity makes it quite versatile for a wide range of weighing needs.

Whether you need to measure very small amounts of spices or large quantities like whole chickens and roasts, this scale can handle it. The 11-pound weight limit also means you can safely weigh most mixing bowls when following recipes.

It’s important not to exceed the maximum capacity, as weighing over 11 pounds can potentially damage the sensitive load cell inside the scale. As long as you stay within the 11-pound limit, you’ll find the Escali Primo adeptly handles everything from small herbs to hefty cuts of meat with precision.

How to Properly Clean the Escali Primo Kitchen Scale

Cleaning the Escali Primo scale regularly will remove food residue, dirt, and bacteria to keep it hygienic for food prep. Here are some tips on how to safely clean this scale:

• Wipe with soft cloth – Gently wipe the stainless steel platform and exterior surfaces with a soft damp cloth to remove dust and debris. Avoid abrasive cloths.
• Use mild soap if needed – For more stubborn dirt, use a mild soap and soft cloth. Avoid soaking the scale.
• Do not submerge – Never submerge the scale in water or place in the dishwasher, as this can damage the internal components.
• Dry thoroughly – Wipe away any moisture and allow the scale to air dry completely before use to prevent damage.
• Avoid harsh chemicals – Do not use harsh chemicals, abrasive cleaners, or bleach that could scratch the surface or harm the electronics.

With proper cleaning and care, your Escali Primo scale will maintain its shiny appearance while providing a clean surface for food preparation.

What Batteries Does the Escali Primo Scale Use?

The Escali Primo digital kitchen scale is powered by two AAA batteries, which come included with the scale.

AAA batteries were chosen for several reasons:

• Easy to find – AAA batteries can be purchased nearly anywhere that sells batteries, for very little cost. Replacement batteries are readily available.
• Long battery life – The low power needs of the scale allow AAA batteries to last approximately one year before needing replacement.
• Lightweight – Two AAA batteries add little additional weight to the portability of the scale.
• Easy to replace – The battery compartment of the scale is designed for quick and simple AAA battery replacement. No tools are needed.

The Escali Primo is optimized to run on just two standard AAA batteries, keeping the scale lightweight and portable. The ability to operate for a full year before battery replacement makes this scale convenient for daily kitchen use.

How to Change the Batteries in the Escali Primo Scale

When the Escali Primo scale starts to show “LO” on the display, it’s time to replace the batteries. Replacing the batteries is quick and easy:

1. Turn the scale over to access the battery compartment.
2. Use your fingers to slide the battery cover off.
3. Remove the old AAA batteries and properly discard them.
4. Insert two new AAA batteries, observing proper polarity (+/-).
5. Slide the battery cover back on until it clicks into place.
6. Turn the scale over and test that the display is functioning.
7. If needed, press the Tare button to zero the scale before use.

That’s all there is to it! With fresh AAA batteries installed, your Escali Primo scale will be ready to provide accurate weights for another year of cooking and baking.

Is the Escali Primo Scale Water Resistant?

The Escali Primo digital kitchen scale has a wipeable stainless steel platform and durable construction, but it is not water resistant and should not be submerged in water.

If liquids are spilt onto the scale platform, simply wipe them away immediately with a soft cloth to avoid any moisture reaching the internal electronic components. Never place the scale under running water or in the dishwasher.

While the scale isn’t waterproof, the smooth stainless steel surface can be easily wiped clean and withstands some moisture from food prep. Just avoid excessive exposure to liquids and never fully immerse the scale in water. With proper care, the Escali Primo provides long-lasting performance for everyday kitchen use.

How to Easily Switch Measurement Units

A handy feature of the Escali Primo kitchen scale is its ability to toggle between different units of measurement with the press of a button.

To switch units:

1. With the scale turned on, press the Unit button.
2. The display will cycle through the available units of grams (g), ounces (oz), and pounds (lb).
3. Stop pressing the button when your desired unit is shown on the display.

The Escali Primo will now weigh items using your selected unit. For example, select grams for precision baking measurements or ounces when weighing food for diet tracking.

Toggling between units is seamless since the scale does the conversions automatically. Whether you need metric or imperial units, this versatility makes the Escali Primo easy to use for any kitchen task.

Where to Buy the Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale

The Escali Primo digital kitchen scale is sold at several major online and big box retailers, so you have plenty of options on where to purchase. Here are some of the best places to buy this popular kitchen scale:

• Amazon – As the world’s largest online retailer, Amazon carries the full range of Escali Primo scales and offers free shipping for Prime members. Amazon frequently has this scale in stock at competitive pricing.
• Walmart – This multinational retailer sells the Escali Primo both on their website and in many brick-and-mortar store locations. Walmart offers free in-store pickup when you order online.
• Bed Bath and Beyond – This home goods store sells the Escali scale on their website and in retail showrooms. You can often find discounts and coupons for products bought online and in stores.
• Sur La Table – For a more upscale shopping experience, this upmarket kitchen retailer offers the Escali Primo in stores and online. It may cost slightly more when not on sale.
• Escali Direct – You can also buy direct from the manufacturer through the official Escali website. This is a good option when looking for sales on special color models of this scale.

Wherever you choose to purchase, look for free shipping offers and discounted pricing to get the best deal. With so many retailers carrying the Escali Primo scale, finding a good price for this popular model is highly achievable.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Escali Primo Scale

While the Escali Primo kitchen scale is designed for reliability, occasional issues can arise. Here are some troubleshooting tips for common problems:

Scale won’t turn on – This typically indicates low or dead batteries. Try replacing the batteries with two new AAA batteries. Check that the batteries are inserted correctly.

Displayed weight seems inaccurate – Make sure the scale is placed on a flat, level surface and free of vibrations. Calibrate the scale to restore accuracy. Also check for low batteries.

Display shows “EE” error – This indicates the scale is overloaded. Remove the excess weight to avoid damaging the scale’s weighing sensors.

Display shows “LO” message – The batteries are low and need to be replaced. Install two new AAA batteries.

Buttons not responding – Make sure the scale is on. If buttons still won’t respond, remove batteries for 10 seconds, reinsert them, and try again. This resets the scale.

Display seems dim – Replace the batteries or adjust the display’s contrast wheel if available on your model.

Following basic troubleshooting tips will help resolve most issues with the Escali Primo kitchen scale. But if problems persist after trying suggested solutions, contact Escali customer support for additional help.

What is the Warranty on the Escali Primo Scale?

Escali offers a limited lifetime warranty on the Primo digital kitchen scale. This warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship under normal use and conditions.

According to Escali, the scale is constructed of high-quality materials that are tested for durability and longevity. If any part is found defective, Escali will replace or repair the scale free of charge within the warranty coverage.

The warranty lasts for the lifetime of the scale but does not cover damage from accident, misuse, or normal wear and tear. Using the scale properly for its intended purpose and avoiding misuse is the best way to gain the benefits of Escali’s lifetime limited warranty.

With a reputation for reliability, plus this generous warranty, consumers can purchase the Escali Primo scale with confidence, knowing it’s built to last a lifetime of everyday kitchen use.

How to Reset the Escali Primo Scale to Factory Settings

If your scale is acting erratically, resetting it can often resolve issues and restore proper performance. Resetting the Escali Primo digital kitchen scale will clear all memory and return settings to their factory defaults.

To reset the scale:

1. Make sure the scale is turned off.
2. Press and hold the Unit button first. While still holding the Unit button, press the On/Off button.
3. Keep both buttons pressed for 5-6 seconds. The display will show “CAL” briefly before returning to “0.0”.
4. Release both buttons. The scale will turn off automatically.
5. All factory default settings are now restored. Weighing units will reset back to grams.

Resetting the scale can be handy for troubleshooting odd behavior, inaccuracies, or if settings seem altered and you want a fresh start. In most cases, your Escali Primo scale will function normally again after being reset.

What Do Reviews Say About the Escali Primo Digital Scale?

With thousands of buyer reviews across retail sites like Amazon, Walmart, and more, the Escali Primo digital kitchen scale rates very well overall. Here is what reviewers praise about this popular kitchen scale:

• Excellent accuracy and consistency for the price
• Easy to use right out of the box
• Large backlit display is bright and easy to read
• Measures in multiple units for versatility
• Compact size takes up little counter space
• Sturdy build quality and stylish design
• Long battery life up to a year per set of batteries
• Minimal weight makes it highly portable
• Tare function works great for subtracting bowl/plate weights

The most common criticisms focus on shorter battery life (if left on for long periods) and some quality control issues in a small percentage of units. Overall though, the vast majority of buyers are extremely satisfied with the performance, accuracy, and convenience of the Escali Primo digital kitchen scale.

How Durable is the Escali Primo Kitchen Scale?

Designed for daily kitchen use, the Escali Primo digital scale has a high-grade stainless steel platform and durable ABS plastic exterior that stands up well to regular use without showing excessive wear.

The stainless platform resists stains, corrosion, and scratches while providing an easy-to-clean surface. The smooth finish hides minor scuffs acquired over time. The plastic housing feels solidly constructed. The buttons and display remain fully functional even after years of pressing and tapping during repeated use.

While not indestructible, the materials and components are made to handle daily weighing tasks. As long as reasonable care is taken and the scale isn’t overloaded past its 11-pound capacity, the Escali Primo provides reliable service for many years before wearing out. Light enough for portable use, it stands up well to travel without damage if packed carefully.

For an inexpensive digital kitchen scale, reviewers find the Escali Primo surprisingly robust and able to withstand years of frequent kitchen use and simple maintenance.

Why the Escali Primo Scale is Ideal for Baking Use

Bakers require reliable precision when measuring ingredients for recipes. Here’s why the Escali Primo is an excellent digital kitchen scale for baking:

• Measures in grams to 1 gram accuracy crucial for baking
• Ample 11-pound capacity handles multiple bowls and ingredients
• Tare function subtracts bowl weight for fast and easy prep
• Timer feature can be used when recipes call fortimed mixing
• 0.1 oz precision ensures accuracy for small amounts like yeast, baking powder
• Backlit screen allows easy reading in any light
• Stainless platform won’t react with ingredients
• Lightweight and slim makes storage simple when not in use
• Long battery life means no hassles when you’re in the middle of baking

With precision gram measurements and a generous capacity, the Escali Primo has the essential features bakers need. Its accuracy delivers consistent, reliable results batch after batch – critical for baking success. And the compact size takes up minimal space when not in use. Cooks and bakers who require exactness love the precision performance of the Escali Primo digital kitchen scale.

Is the Escali Primo Kitchen Scale Portable?

Weighing only 1.1 pounds and running on just two AAA batteries, the Escali Primo is highly portable for using your kitchen scale anywhere.

The lightweight design allows easy transport when traveling, camping, or heading to barbecues and potlucks where you need to measure ingredients away from home. Students find it convenient to take to college dorms.

With a slim profile that can stand upright or fold for packing, it tucks away neatly into luggage without taking up space. The smooth stainless surface helps prevent damage during transport. No power cord is required, making operation simple anywhere.

While not waterproof, its durable build still withstands travel stress well and provides the same accuracy on the road as at home. Weighing only 12 ounces itself, the Escali Primo kitchen scale brings precision weighing capability almost anywhere for convenient cooking, baking, and food tracking.

Does the Escali Primo Scale Have an Auto-Off Feature?

Yes, the Escali Primo kitchen scale automatically powers off after 2 minutes of inactivity.

This auto shutoff feature helps preserve battery life when you forget to turn the scale off manually. It ensures the scale won’t drain batteries if accidentally left on.

After automatically powering down, the scale simply turns on again with a tap of the On/Off button or when weight is placed back on the platform. The auto shutoff won’t happen while you’re actively weighing ingredients.

The 2-minute auto-off provides a good balance between convenience and saving battery life. But the auto shutoff time can also be changed to 60 or 120 seconds by holding down the Unit button while turning it on – useful when operating on low batteries.

Knowing your Escali Primo scale will power down automatically gives you peace of mind to focus on cooking and baking while also extending battery runtime.

How the Escali Primo Compares to Other Kitchen Scales

When shopping for a digital kitchen scale, the Escali Primo is a top contender with features and performance that rival or beat scales costing much more. Here is how the Escali Primo compares to some other popular kitchen scales:

• vs Ozeri Pronto Digital Kitchen Scale – The Escali is thinner, lighter, and more compact but has a lower 11 lb capacity compared to the Pronto’s 13 lbs. Display and accuracy are very similar. The Escali is more affordable.
• vs Oxo Good Grips Stainless Steel Food Scale – The Oxo scale is an excellent model but costs almost twice as much as the Escali. Both offer great accuracy down to 1 gram. The Oxo scale is more water resistant. The Escali provides longer battery life.
• vs Cuisinart Digital Kitchen Scale – With similar accuracy and stainless platforms, the Escali Primo edges out the Cuisinart with higher capacities and lower price points on most models. The Escali scale also seems to have better longevity based on reviews. But the Cuisinart does include volume measurement options that the Escali lacks.

For its combination of high accuracy, durable and sleek design, multiple units, and very affordable pricing, the Escali Primo digital kitchen scale stays competitive against models from much bigger brands. Unless you need special volumetric features, the Escali Primo is a reliable kitchen scale at a very appealing price point.

The Takeaway on the Escali Primo Digital Kitchen Scale

For cooks, bakers, and anyone who wants quick ingredient weighing in the kitchen, the Escali Primo Digital Scale makes an affordable yet high-performing kitchen scale option that consistently garners positive reviews.

With accuracy down to 0.1 oz/ 1 gram, 11 pound capacity, backlit display, and sleek stainless steel platform, it delivers on the key features needed for effortless everyday weighing and baking. Its lightweight portability and long battery life add to the convenience. Thousands of satisfied customers find the quality and reliability impressively good for such an inexpensive kitchen scale. For shoppers looking for precision at a budget-friendly price, the Escali Primo is very hard to beat.