Comparison Tanita BC-601 vs Omron BF 508

Weights are able to keep records in various units of measurement, while accounting can be done both by mass and by volume. Among the most common units of measurement, we highlight the following.

— Grams (g) — a unit of weight that belongs to the metric system. Grams are used in desktop kitchen scales.

— Kilograms (kg) — a unit of weight that belongs to the metric system. Kilograms are used in floor weighing equipment.

— Pounds (lb:oz) is a common unit of weight used in some countries in Europe, as well as in the United States. 1 pound can be equated to 0.45 kilograms.

— Milliliters (ml) — a unit of volume that belongs to the metric system. Some models of scales are able to determine the volume of milk and water based on mass.

— Ounces (fl'oz) is a unit of volume used in English-speaking countries. 1 US ounce is equivalent to 30 mL.

— Stones (st) is the British unit of weight. Stones are used to take into account the mass of the human body, so this measurement system is found in floor household and specialized diagnostic scales. 1 stone can be equated to 6.35 kilograms.

— Tare compensation. The capacity to factor in the weight of containers or packaging when weighing materials is a common feature. Typically, this function operates by placing an empty container (like a box or measuring cup) onto the scale and resetting the scale's measurement (via a button press or a specific knob turn). Consequently, when the container is filled, the scale displays only the content's weight, excluding the container's weight. Some models even allow for manual adjustment of any additional weight that shouldn't be considered.

— Measurement of volume. The capability to measure liquid volume is a function present exclusively in kitchen scales (as outlined in "Weighing type"). It's executed through various methods. For instance, some models incorporate a divided bowl that functions as a measuring cup, operating on a similar principle. In other models, users can select the liquid type (water, milk, vegetable oil, etc.), and the scale will automatically compute the volume based on its weight. This function proves valuable when precise ingredient measurement is of utmost importance.

— Automatic activation. Automatic activation of electronic scales when a load is placed on them. Small, but quite handy option.

— Automatic shutdown. This function ensures that the electronic balance (see "Mechanism") turns...off some time after the load has been removed from it. Thanks to auto-off, you can not be afraid to run out of batteries by forgetting to turn off the device. And in some models, manual shutdown is not provided at all — only automatic.

— Voice notification. Scales incorporating a voice notification feature offer audible results, typically relayed through the device's speaker. This function is commonly found in bathroom scales (as discussed in "Type of scales"), where it holds significant relevance. It caters to users who may have difficulty viewing the display without leaning or those who might find leaning inconvenient or impractical due to health issues. Voice notifications can be provided in various languages, allowing users to select their preferred language from the available options.

— Calorie calculator. This function enables the calculation of the nutritional content of weighed items, typically focusing on calorie count, although more advanced models might incorporate additional parameters like protein, fat, carbohydrates, fiber, and liquids. The scale stores information about the nutritional values of various products. When weighing, users select a specific item from this list to determine its caloric content. While theoretically useful for those meticulously monitoring their diet and calorie intake, the accuracy of the calorie calculator often provides only approximations, which may not align precisely with actual values. For instance, while the calorie calculator can accurately estimate the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables, it tends to provide general average values for grains. However, the actual calorie content of foods like porridge varies based on preparation methods. Thus, the calorie calculator should not be solely relied upon; for more precise nutritional information, consulting specialized tables and calculation methods is advisable.

— Timer. Including a timer feature in scales enables users to set countdown intervals. The user establishes a desired duration, initiates the timer, and receives a signal when the set time elapses. This functionality proves beneficial across various applications, with particular utility in the kitchen where precise time control is frequently required during cooking. Consequently, the majority of scales equipped with a timer are categorized as kitchen scales (refer to "Type of scales").

— Thermometer. Availability of the built-in thermometer in scales. Usually, this function is performed by a simple thermal sensor that determines the ambient temperature; and most scales with such equipment are kitchen scales or floor scales (refer to "Type of scales"). Note that in fact, the need for a thermometer occurs relatively rarely, and this function is more of a “nice addition” than a serious functional advantage. However, such equipment has almost no effect on the cost of scales — thermal sensors are very inexpensive.

— Synchronization with a smartphone. The capacity to link scales with a mobile device (smartphone, tablet) for data exchange is a prevalent feature. Generally, this involves installing a designated application, which might even be provided alongside the scales. The specifics of this connection and its functionalities can vary, contingent on the type and model of the scale. This feature is commonly found in floor-standing diagnostic scales, where measurement data is used to maintain a record of body information. It particularly benefits athletes, fitness enthusiasts, and individuals using physical activity for therapeutic purposes. Notably, compatibility extends beyond proprietary software to encompass third-party medical and fitness services. Another category of devices featuring synchronization capability is kitchen scales, where the accompanying application is employed for working with various culinary recipes.

— Height measurement. The ability to measure height is a common feature in scales designed for children. These scales typically have a measuring device integrated into their design. This device can vary, ranging from a simple measuring tape to movable partitions that adjust according to the child's growth. Measuring height alongside weight is convenient for assessing a child's development. Some floor scales for adults also offer this function, using innovative methods. For example, in certain models, a wireless remote control acts as a measuring ruler, raised to the head's level for measurement. Height measurement often combines with calculating body mass index.

— Measurement of % of adipose tissue. Measurement of the amount of adipose tissue in the body. This function is especially useful for people with a dense physique, it allows you to quite accurately determine what caused a lot of weight — obesity or general characteristics of the body. Note that in this case we are talking about the amount of all types of adipose tissue; separately, measurement of the amount of visceral fat may be provided, see below about it.

— Calculation of the level of visceral fat. Measurement of visceral fat is the ability to gauge the quantity of adipose tissue encircling internal organs like the stomach, intestines, and kidneys. While some visceral fat is essential for or...gan protection and bodily function, excessive amounts can lead to severe health issues. This feature identifies the proportion of adipose tissue categorized as visceral fat, aiming for it to constitute less than 10-15% of the total fat content.

— Measurement of % body fluid. Measurement of total body water is the ability to assess the overall water content within the body. Water is essential for bodily functions; its deficiency can result in consequences ranging from weakness to severe illnesses. However, excessive water retention can lead to swelling. It's important to mention that any organism lacking sufficient water is prone to dehydration. Swelling, on the other hand, signals inefficiencies in specific organs like the heart or kidneys. This can be due to diseases or temporary factors like increased exercise, heat exposure, or alcohol consumption. Notably, the optimal water content varies among individuals based on factors such as gender, age, health, and physique. In-depth information on this, along with methods for establishing such norms, can be found in specialized resources.

— Measurement of % muscle mass. The capability to measure total muscle mass in the body is a crucial parameter for assessing physique characteristics. This function holds particular significance for bodybuilders aiming to enhance their muscle mass. Effective muscle growth necessitates not only rigorous training but also a well-structured nutrition plan, abundant in carbohydrates. Poor dietary planning can lead to excess fat accumulation instead of muscle development. Regular muscle mass measurements enable ongoing trend assessment and prompt adjustments to the mass gain program when needed.

— Measurement of % bone mass. The ability to measure total bone mass within the body is a significant parameter for evaluating an individual's physique. Bone densities can vary among individuals, and increased body weight might be attributed to bone tissue rather than fat. Notably, bone weight and composition change less rapidly compared to muscles and body fat. Consequently, this function primarily serves for initial assessments of body characteristics.

— Calculation of basal metabolic rate(BMR). The feature to compute basal metabolism is the capacity to calculate the minimal energy requirement for the body's normal functioning. This encompasses the needs of respiratory, circulatory, nervous systems, and various organs. In essence, basal metabolism represents the energy expended by the body directly for functioning, without storing it as fat. This parameter plays a crucial role in establishing appropriate nutrition, particularly when aiming to burn fat and reduce excess weight through exercise. Formulas exist to estimate basal metabolic rate (BMR) based on factors like weight, height, age, and gender, but they provide only an average outcome. Diagnostic scales, on the other hand, consider numerous additional elements that influence metabolic rate. Typically, basal metabolism is evaluated in terms of daily energy expenditure.

— Calculation of physical age. The feature to assess the physical or metabolic age of the user determines the approximate age at which their body's metabolism aligns. This provides insight into the body's overall condition, indicating whether it is functioning more "youthfully" or "aged." Ideally, the metabolic age should closely match the chronological age. It's considered favorable if the metabolic age is notably lower than the actual age, reflecting a highly active and well-conditioned body, provided there are no underlying health issues. Conversely, if the physical age is significantly older than the calendar age, it suggests potential problems and prompts a reevaluation of one's lifestyle. Modern diagnostic scales calculate the metabolic age by considering key factors like weight, height, age, gender, and basal metabolic rate (as explained earlier), as well as specific data such as bone mass and visceral fat. This comprehensive approach enhances accuracy compared to using specialized tables.

— Calculation of body mass index(BMI). The capability to automatically compute the body mass index during each weigh-in is a valuable feature. BMI serves as an indicator of a person's physique, highlighting the presence of underweight or overweight. It's calculated using the formula: weight in kilograms divided by the square of height in meters. For accurate BMI calculation, the scales need access to both weight and height information. Some models incorporate stadiometers (as seen in Height measurement) to measure height, while others allow users to input their height manually. BMI values can be roughly interpreted as follows: less than 15 – severe underweight, 15-20 – underweight, 20-25 – normal, 25-30 – overweight, 30 and above – severe overweight, obesity.

— Pulse. The pulse measurement function allows you to evaluate the user's heart rate readings in real time.

— Protein. Measuring the protein content in body tissues is achieved by calculating the percentage relative to the user's total weight. This is done through intricate algorithms employing bioimpedance analysis. Proteins play a crucial role in muscle growth, serving as the foundational components. Insufficient protein levels can result in weight loss, disruptions in metabolism, and compromised blood circulation.

The number of users that can be stored in the device's memory.

Memory storage for multiple users is predominantly present in floor models of scales (as indicated in "Type of scales"), particularly those with advanced diagnostic functionalities (although the latter is not a mandatory requirement). These scales can store data for each user across multiple measurements, often including time and date stamps for each reading. Furthermore, these designs might include additional features, such as tracking changes in various parameters since the last measurement.

The choice of memory size depends on the number of users whose data needs to be stored. So, for family use, a device designed for 3 to 4 people is usually enough; less often 6 – 8 memory cells may be required. And the most "capacious" modern scales allow you to store data for 16 – 20 users; this can be useful, for example, for a sports team or a sanatorium group.

The presence of a guest mode in scales with memory for several users (see above). This function, in accordance with the name, is intended for cases when the balance is used by a "guest" — a person who does not need to be entered into the permanent memory of the device (and who should not have access to it). The results of "guest" measurements are displayed once, are not stored in memory and do not affect its contents. This mode can be useful not only directly for guests, but also in other situations — for example, to demonstrate or check the capabilities of scales in a store before buying

The ability to remove the display from the body of the scale and use it separately from the main unit. This display generally employs wireless connectivity to maintain real-time communication with the scales, thereby enabling it to be positioned anywhere for convenient viewing. This proves particularly beneficial for floor models (as detailed in "Type of scales"), where the typical built-in display might be positioned at a less accessible height. Notably, the remote display might offer additional functions like clock, thermometer, and remote control buttons for the scales. However, it's important to acknowledge the downsides of this design, including a relatively higher cost and the necessity for a dedicated power source for the remote unit.

The vast majority of electronic scales are powered by a battery pack. But some models may have a built-in battery, which does not require constant replacement. Just remember to recharge the scales.

Battery powered scales can use different types of batteries:

— AA — the format of the classic "finger" batteries;

— AAA — "microfinger" batteries;

— CR2032 — the so-called coin type. Many PC users are familiar with this battery format. "Coins" are used to power BIOS memory in motherboards.

In addition to the type of batteries, you also need to pay attention to their number in the battery compartment.