An analytical balance is a highly precise measuring instrument used to determine the mass of small samples with a high degree of accuracy and precision. It is commonly used in scientific research, analytical chemistry, and quality control settings, where minuscule variations in weight can have significant effects. With a capacity ranging from 22 to 520 g and readability from 0.001 to 1 mg, METTLER TOLEDO analytical balances are perfectly suited to sensitive applications, such as density determination, sample preparation, differential weighing, formulation, and pipette calibration.
An analytical balance, also known as a semi-analytical balance, is a type of laboratory instrument that measures mass to a high degree of accuracy, typically having a readability of 0.1 mg (four decimal places) or smaller. An analytical balance has a highly sensitive weighing cell and thus is built with a draft shield to protect the sample and the container from air movements, which can cause instability and inaccurate results. Analytical balances from METTLER TOLEDO offer a weighing capacity from 22 g to 520 g and readability ranging from 0.001 mg to 1 mg.
Modern analytical balances are often equipped with various functions and features to help maintain accuracy and improve weighing ergonomics, such as internal testing and adjustment, intuitive touchscreen operation, quality assurance, and motorized doors. METTLER TOLEDO's analytical balances also make it possible to connect to dedicated data management software, such as EasyDirect and LabX™. Our XPR analytical balances also feature StaticDetect™, which automatically assesses the weighing error due to static charges on samples and containers and provides a warning if the error exceeds predefined limits. XPR analytical balances can also easily be upgraded for automatic powder and liquid dispensing. Analytical balances provide connectivity options, such as USB, RS232, and LAN, to enable digital transfers of results and facilitate balance connection to various peripherals, accessories, and data systems.
The weighing principle of METTLER TOLEDO analytical balances is based on electromagnetic force compensation. The weighing cell inside the balance housing creates a counteracting electromagnetic force to the object that has been placed on the weighing pan. The analytical balance interprets the magnitude of this compensating electromagnetic force as the weight of the object. The result is displayed on the balance terminal in the appropriate unit (grams, milligrams, micrograms, etc.).
The weighing pan of an analytical laboratory balance (0.1 mg readability or smaller) is placed inside a draft shield, which protects the sample and container from external environmental influences like air drafts, improving general weighing performance. This is particularly important in analytical weighing when the accuracy of results is of the utmost importance.
Analytical balances are used for simple weighing applications, as well as for standard and sample preparation, formulation, density measurement, filter weighing, etc.
Before weighing, first check that the balance is level. If your standard operating procedure (SOP) requires it, you may need to perform a balance adjustment.
If you are weighing an item, rather than dosing a sample into a container, simply zero the balance and place your item in the center of the weighing pan. Then close the draft shield door and wait for the balance to release the weight result. Read more in our free guide: Weighing the Right Way
Cleaning analytical balances is very important for user safety and to avoid cross-contamination that affects result accuracy. In addition, good maintenance of your analytical balance will increase its lifespan.
The weighing pan, drip tray, housing, and terminal of the analytical balance can be cleaned with a tissue. Your analytical balance is constructed of high-quality, durable materials that allow it to be cleaned with commercially available mild detergents and cleaning agents, such as 70% ethanol or isopropanol. Do not use acetone to clean your analytical balance as it is incompatible with plastic handles, glued parts, and the terminal.
![]() |
If not specified in your SOPs, it is recommended that you clean analytical balances at least weekly or monthly, depending on use. In many labs, a daily inspection of the analytical balance is recommended. Where toxic samples are being weighed, the analytical balance should be cleaned immediately after each weighing.
All METTLER TOLEDO analytical balance models come with features that enable easy cleaning.
MS analytical balances provide a complete and effortless disassembly and assembly of the draft shield from the analytical balance housing via QuickLock without using any tools. This makes the MS model not only easy to clean but also easy to transport into confined spaces.
On the XPR analytical balances, cleaning is simplified with easy-to-remove elements, such as the drip tray and all draft shield parts, without the need for any tools. The parts can simply be cleaned with a dishwasher