zeroHero Mini Espresso Scale Review: Affordable Precision for Coffee Enthusiasts
This post contains affiliate links. By buying through them, I earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. It’s how we make this happen. Thank you for supporting the Coffee Guide.
UPDATE: The zeroHero mini espresso scale is out of stock. I recommend you checkout the MHW-3Bomber mini coffee scale. I have reached out to zeroHero and will update this when it’s back.
If there’s one tool that I recommend that will elevate your brewing game, it’s the digital scale. But most people underspend or overspend for what they really need. I recently had the chance to review the zeroHero Mini Espresso scale (shoutout to zH for sending me this scale to review freely and honestly). This lesser-known brand has won multiple international design awards, and their mission? Well, it’s to put professional-grade coffee tools in your hands affordably. Sounds like a winner to me. Let's dive into this review and you’ll see how the $50 Mini Espresso scale unlocks great coffee without breaking the bank.
Watch the YouTube video below and then read on to see why I was impressed by this little scale.
Watch this YouTube video and then read on to see why I was impressed by this little scale.
Unboxing and First Impressions
Sleek and modern aesthetics – very important to me as someone who values a cohesive coffee bar like the Ikea Bror
Build quality and materials – CNC’d aluminum ensures an accidental drop won’t ruin your day
What's included in the package – Scale, rubber insulation mat, and USB-C charging cord
Key Features That Set the zeroHero Scale Apart
Compact size that fits multiple applications: Not too big and not too small. Fits on your espresso machine or under your coffee server/carafe.
High-precision weight measurements: Weighs down to the tenth of a gram; essential for replicating your coffee brewing results.
Multiple brewing modes for versatility: Auto-tare, auto-drip detection, and auto-timing all make your brewing workflows more efficient whether its espresso, auto-drip, or pour-over coffee.
Bright display: An easy to LED display makes brewing easy even in low light.
A Step-by-Step User Guide
With the power set to “On” on the side:
Awake from sleep mode: Single press right-side button
Return to sleep mode: Press and hold right-side button
Change between weigh-only, weigh and time, and auto-tare and time: Press and hold left-side button
Activate auto-tare with drip detection timer: In weigh and time mode double press the right-side button
Tare weight: Single press right-side button
Start/stop time: In weigh and time mode single press left-side button
Reset time: In weigh and time mode double press left-side button
Understanding The Scale's Display Icons
Square icon: Square icon means you’re in auto-tare and timing mode. When you set your carafe or cup (we’re partial to this one from NotNeutral) on the scale it will tare your weight and start timing. Great for espresso.
Drip icon: Drip icon means you’re in auto-tare and drip detection timing mode. When you start your pour the timer will start. Great for pour-overs.
No icon: No icon means you’re in manual mode and must press the buttons to stop and start timing and to tare your weight.
Pros and Cons: An Honest Assessment
Standout features and benefits: Great design, long battery life, versatile brewing applications.
Areas for potential improvement: Every product has room for improvement. The Mini Espresso scale has small improvements that can be made to its brewing modes such as reducing the chance of time and weight auto-tare when making a pour-over and employing techniques such as the Rao spin.
Value for money comparison: When compared with scales like the Acaia Lunar or Pearl, the Mini Espresso scale offers 90% of the functionality for more than half the cost.
Conclusion
The zeroHero Mini Espresso Scale is a testament to the fact that professional-grade coffee equipment doesn't have to come with a hefty price tag. Its versatility, precision, and user-friendly design make it an great tool for both novice and experienced coffee enthusiasts. Whether you're pulling the perfect espresso shot, making a pour-over, or making a batch of cold brew — this scale has you covered. Ready to take your coffee game to the next level? Grab your zeroHero Mini Espresso Scale and let's brew some magic.
Want to support Rob’s Coffee Guide so we can make more great content? Subscribe to my Youtube channel by clicking the button below and my email newsletter.
