Several balance specifications look similar but answer different questions. Knowing how readability, repeatability, linearity and measurement uncertainty relate will make technical comparisons more meaningful.
Readability Is Not Accuracy
Readability is the smallest display increment. A 0.01 g balance may display two decimal places consistently, but that does not demonstrate that every measurement is within 0.01 g of the true value. Avoid treating the display step as an accuracy guarantee.
Repeatability Describes Short-Term Variation
Repeatability is evaluated by taking repeated measurements under specified conditions. It helps indicate how much readings may vary when the same load is measured again. Methods and reported statistics can differ, so compare specifications tested under similar conditions.
Linearity Concerns Performance Across the Range
A balance may behave differently near the bottom, middle and top of its capacity. A linearity specification characterizes departure from an ideal response across the weighing range. It is especially relevant when using a balance for samples of different masses.
Uncertainty Combines Multiple Contributions
A measurement uncertainty estimate may include repeatability, calibration, resolution, eccentricity, environmental effects and the weighing procedure. In critical applications, determine uncertainty for the actual weighing task rather than selecting a balance by one catalog number.
How to Compare Product Specifications
Request maximum capacity, readability, typical repeatability and linearity, plus information on adjustment and calibration. Browse precision balances and analytical balances as a starting point.