Digital scale vs doser - Choosing the right tool

Every perfect coffee starts with a simple rule: the dose matters. The right amount of ground coffee makes the difference between a balanced espresso and one that’s unbalanced too bitter or too weak. But which tool is best to consistently achieve the same quality? Should you rely on the precision of a digital scale or the convenience of a traditional doser?

There’s no single answer. The choice depends on the type of establishment, customer flow, working method, and the level of attention you want to dedicate to each extraction. In this article, we compare the two tools to help you find the solution that best fits your needs.

Digital scale - Advantages of precision and repeatability

The digital scale has become an essential tool for those seeking maximum precision and consistent control. It allows you to measure each dose of ground coffee for espresso (usually 7-9 g per single shot) with exact accuracy, avoiding waste and ensuring uniformity from one espresso to the next.

It is especially useful for:

• establishments focused on excellence and attention to detail
• those working with single origins or premium blends
• those offering alternative brewing methods (V60, Chemex, etc.)
• training courses and tasting tests, where every gram counts

The scale is also helpful in barista training because it makes the impact of the dose on the quality of the coffee in the cup visible and understandable. Its only "drawback" might be speed: compared to the traditional doser, it takes a few extra seconds.

Traditional doser - Speed and convenience at the counter

The manual doser is still the most widely used tool in most cafés today. It is integrated into the coffee grinder and allows dispensing predetermined portions of ground coffee with a simple motion.

It is the perfect solution for:

• high-traffic environments where speed is essential
• cafés with high volumes
• bars with less experienced staff

The doser is practical and intuitive, but it has some limitations: it is less precise than a scale, and if not calibrated regularly, it can lead to variations in the dose. However, with proper control and maintenance, it remains a valid and effective tool.

Which tool to choose based on your establishment

The choice between a digital scale and a doser shouldn’t be a matter of “trend,” but of functionality. If you run a place where time is money and every minute counts, the doser ensures speed and smooth service. But if you want to raise the quality bar and focus on a premium offering, the digital scale provides control and consistency essential for building loyalty among discerning customers.

Many baristas opt for a hybrid solution: using the doser for routine work and the scale for special preparations, testing, and new offerings. In any case, knowing your tools is the first step toward controlling quality and serving an espresso that meets the highest standards every day.