Best Lab Hydrometers of 2026

"I found this kit to be excellent for the price, extremely accurate, and really easy to use and read. For anyone looking for a good value, this is definitely worth every penny."

"As a beginner, I appreciated that the set was complete and simple to operate, plus it arrived in secure packaging."

"The hydrometer worked well for me and gave me confidence in measuring ABV for my tinctures. The instructions were helpful, though a bit confusing, and the temperature adjustment chart was a nice bonus."

"I checked the calibration in water and found it to be accurate and easy to read. The hydrometer arrived in a solid tube with foam padding, which makes it feel portable and protected. I haven’t tried it on glazes yet, but so far, I’m very pleased with its performance and design."

"At first, I didn’t realize the hydrometer would be so big, which made it tricky to use with my pottery slip. Once I got a larger plastic tube, it worked very well for my mixing needs."

"This hydrometer paired perfectly with my graduated cylinder from Amazon. The fit and function make my measurements much easier and more precise in my studio."

"I found this tool delivers exactly what it promises, providing me with a reliable proof reading every time. The included plastic cover doubles as a test cylinder, which makes it much less likely to break—definitely a plus for clumsy hands like mine. I did need to buy a larger cylinder for readings above 160 proof, but overall, it's been great for my needs."

"Unfortunately, the product I received didn't function at all—even with store-bought vodka at the right temperature, the hydrometer wouldn’t sink. I didn’t test it right away, so I only discovered the issue after my batch finished fermenting. At least in my case, it turned out to be non-functional."

"I thought this was a complete kit and expected a separate tube for testing, but it seems I misread. Still, it appears to work as expected, so I’m satisfied with the main function."

"I found this hydrometer to be accurate and reliable, but it's definitely too delicate for pottery studio use. The glass broke in less than a month, and for the price, that was disappointing. Other potters might want something sturdier for workshop environments."

"Although the packaging was labeled correctly, I received a hydrometer with the wrong measurement range. I needed one for heavier liquids but got a lighter-than-water version instead. Ultimately, I had to order a suitable one elsewhere."

"When I opened the carton, I found broken glass inside and couldn't even test the product. Pretty let down by the condition it arrived in."

"I appreciate the affordable price and quick delivery, especially during the busy holiday season. The product works as intended and I'm satisfied with my purchase."

"As someone who brews kombucha, I found this hydrometer to be a game changer for tracking alcohol content. I recommend buying a plastic test cylinder too, and maybe even a second hydrometer for peace of mind since it feels fragile. The instructions could be clearer, but overall it's a good tool for novice brewers."

"The color coding is helpful for brewing beer and wine, making it easier to read through plastic. However, I think a glass version would be even easier to use."

"I use this hydrometer for all my homebrewing projects, and it's been a joy to work with every time. The colored bands on the scale make readings super quick and easy, and the calibration is spot on in plain water. The quality glass construction feels durable and smooth, and the storage case is handy and keeps it safe. I've recommended this hydrometer to my fellow homebrewers."

"As someone making homemade wine, I found this hydrometer straightforward to use and easy to read. Although I'm not completely sure of its absolute accuracy for wine, it's affordable and sturdy, which makes it a good choice for beginners or those brewing beer and cider."

"After testing it in water, the reading was perfect at 1.000, so accuracy checks out for me. The hydrometer helps me track fermentation progress and alcohol content in mead, wine, and beer. I also appreciate that the case prevents it from rolling and breaking. Just remember, it's glass—handle with care!"

"I found this product very easy to read and incredibly useful for measuring fluids heavier than water. It's also stable and floats nicely during use."

"This is a great tool for non-alcoholic applications. I had a bit of trouble locating it among all the alcohol hydrometers, but once I got it, it worked perfectly for my needs."

"I like how well it floats and remains steady in the liquid. Keep in mind, though, it's not suitable for beer or wine making."

"I ordered the heavier-than-water hydrometer, but the one I got was actually labeled for isopropyl alcohol. When tested in distilled water, it sank instead of floating, so it seems to be made for heavier liquids, making it unusable for my needs."

"I'm happy with how quickly this arrived, especially during the holidays. The price was great and the hydrometer works as intended."

"As a kombucha brewer, I found this device to be a real game changer for estimating alcohol content. Just make sure to get a plastic test cylinder, and maybe buy two since they seem a bit fragile. The instructions could be clearer, but overall it's very helpful for beginners."

"The color-coded design really helps when brewing beer or wine, making it easier to read through plastic. I do wish it was glass for even better visibility, but the color coding is a nice touch."

"I find this hydrometer incredibly easy to use and appreciate the clear, accurate readings it provides for tracking my fermentation process. The fact that it arrived ready to use made things even more convenient. It's a reliable, no-nonsense tool for my needs."

"I like that this hydrometer displays both percentage and proof—it's a real time-saver for my workflow. It's exactly as advertised, and I enjoy using it for my spirits."

"These are a great deal for a three-pack and provide actual ABV and proof measurements. Just be aware that they're not for measuring specific gravity before distilling."