What is the difference between an analytical balance and a top-loading balance?

At Scales Plus, this question comes up a lot so we wanted to help clear up the mystery.

The two terms really have no relation at all. One refers to the class of a balance while the other is in reference to a style. Let us explain further.

An  analytical balance is a class of a balance that has a readability of 0.1 mg or better. At this level of readability, it is required for the balance to have a draft shield. Samples are placed inside of the draft shield onto the weighing pan. The purpose of the draft shield is to prevent drafts from influencing the weighing results. Most analytical balances are so accurate, even just minor breezes caused by someone walking by would disrupt the reading. This is why analytical balances have draft shields. And because of the fact that the weighing pan on an analytical balance is covered by a draft shield, they are not considered to be a 'top loading' balance.

A 'top-loading balance', as they are often referred to as, is a balance that does not have a draft shield. Samples are loaded directly onto the weighing pan. These balances typically have a readability of 1 mg or less. This readability range puts them into a class of precision balances. Often times, they are also called a top-loading precision balance. At 1 mg readability, some manufacturers will include a draft shield for additional measurement reliability. The reference to "top-loading" simply demonstrates that there is no draft shield. It is a balance with an open weighing pan loaded directly from the top.

This can get even more in-depth explaining further differences between the two. However, this is the most simple answer to help clear things up.

Do you have more to add or perhaps further questions? Check out our  Help Center & Resources, or please contact us and a trained member of the Scales Plus team will gladly help!