Best Lab Hydrometers of 2025

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 15, 2025

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Lab hydrometers are essential tools for measuring the specific gravity of liquids in laboratory settings. They are commonly used to measure the density of a liquid in comparison to water, which allows for the determination of the concentration of dissolved solids in a solution. These devices are typically made of glass or plastic and come in a variety of sizes and ranges to accommodate different types of liquids. Lab hydrometers are commonly used in industries such as chemistry, biology, and physics, and are an important tool for accurate measurements and experimentation.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Circrane Hydrometer & Glass Test Jar Set Cover #TOP 1
Circrane Hydrometer & Glass Test Jar Set
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Universal Lab Hydrometer in Hard Plastic Case Cover #TOP 2
Universal Lab Hydrometer in Hard Plastic Case
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Triple Scale Alcohol Hydrometer Cover #TOP 3
Triple Scale Alcohol Hydrometer
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Lab Hydrometers

#TOP 1

Circrane Hydrometer & Glass Test Jar Set

BL-AIL-128
White
125 Ounce
Circrane Hydrometer & Glass Test Jar Set Cover
Circrane Hydrometer & Glass Test Jar Set, Triple Scale Alcohol Hydrometer with Glass Cylinder for Brew Beer, Wine, Mead and Kombucha, ABV, Brix and Gravity Test Kit, Home Brewing Supplies

The Circrane Hydrometer & Glass Test Jar Set is a must-have for home brewers. The kit includes an accurate hydrometer and an extra narrow measuring cylinder to ensure precise readings of alcohol content, sweetness, and gravity. The triple scale hydrometer is easy to read and environmentally friendly, with no hazardous compounds. The kit also includes a narrow test tube to save precious liquid, a bottle brush, a sturdy storage case, an instruction sheet, and a microfiber cleaning cloth.

What We Like
Accurate specific gravity measurements
Protective plastic storage case
Well-packaged and complete kit
Color-coded for easier reading
Great value for price
What We Don't Like
Thin glass may break easily
Small lines can be hard to read
#TOP 2

Universal Lab Hydrometer in Hard Plastic Case

PH0128
Universal Lab Hydrometer in Hard Plastic Case Cover
EISCO Universal Laboratory Hydrometer in Hard Plastic Case- Measure Specific Gravity Range 0.700 to 2.000-0.01 Graduations - Dual Scale for Light and Heavy Liquids

This dual scale hydrometer is designed for lab use but is also suitable for measuring specific gravity in beer, wine, kombucha, mead, and other activities. With a range of 0.700 to 2.000 and 0.01 graduations, this 15.25" long, .58" diameter hydrometer comes in a hard plastic case for easy storage and transportation.

What We Like
Accurate calibration
Sturdy storage case
Easy readability
Portable design
Good for mixing pottery slip
What We Don't Like
Calibration issues noted
Fragile construction
#TOP 3

Triple Scale Alcohol Hydrometer

HG-00001
Two Hydrometers
Triple Scale Alcohol Hydrometer Cover
Triple Scale Alcohol Hydrometer(2 pcs)and Test Jar for Home Brew, Wine, Beer, Mead, Cider & Kombucha - Combo Set of 250ml Plastic Cylinder, Cleaning Brush, Storage Bag - ABV, Brix and Gravity Test Kit

This Haoguo Hydrometer Set is a must-have for home brewers. It includes 2 Triple Scale Hydrometers, a 250ml test jar, a hard-cover protective case, and a nylon cylinder brush. The hydrometer is easy to read, with graduated color bands that help you track the brewing progress and calculate the Alcohol % (ABV) accurately. It can measure specific gravity, brix/balling, and potential alcohol by volume, providing vital information for your homebrewing process. With this set, you can make different wines right at home. Plus, it comes with a 100% money back guarantee, so you can buy with confidence.

What We Like
Accurate alcohol content measurement
Two included hydrometers
Good for home brewing
Well-packaged for shipping
What We Don't Like
Fragile construction
Cleaning brush quality issues
#TOP 4

Hydrometer for Alcohol Proof and Tralle

6612-1
Clear
Hydrometer for Alcohol Proof and Tralle Cover
FastRack Hydrometer Alcohol 0-200 Proof and Tralle Hydrometer, Alcohol Proof Tester for Liquor, Distilling Moonshine - Alcohol Hydrometer for Proofing Distilled

This lab hydrometer measures the proof and tralle of alcohol with a range of 0 to 200%. It is not suitable for measuring lower alcohol products such as beer or wine.

What We Like
Works as expected
Accurate compared to expensive options
Excellent customer service
Confidence in purchase
What We Don't Like
Thin and fragile glass
Limited to distilled alcohol
#TOP 5

Hydrometer Alcohol Meter Test Kit: Distilled Alcohol American-Made

B001X2B4F4
Transparent
Hydrometer Alcohol Meter Test Kit: Distilled Alcohol American-Made Cover
Hydrometer Alcohol Meter Test Kit: Distilled Alcohol American-Made 0-200 Proof Pro Series Traceable Alcoholmeter Tester Set with Glass Jar for Proofing Distilled Spirits - Made in America

This Hydrometer Alcohol Meter Test Kit is American-made and includes a NIST Traceable 0-200 Proof & Tralles Hydrometer for alcohol. It has a 0-200 PROOF scale for testing spirits, high alcohol liquor, moonshine, corn whiskey, barrel aging dissipation, infusion batch, and tincture recipes. The kit comes with a borosilicate glass test tube, a bottle brush, a plastic storage tube, a foam-filled, sturdy outer box, and a microfiber cloth. The borosilicate glass test tube has a removable bumper guard and a sturdy, perfect-fit, hydrometer test jar cleaning brush with a stainless steel handle. This hydrometer alcohol meter test kit is perfect for distillers or anyone who wants to measure the alcohol content of their homemade drinks accurately.

What We Like
Good value for money
Well-packaged for safety
Accurate readings with practice
Includes cleaning brush
Quality materials and feel
What We Don't Like
Fragile glass components
Calibration issues reported
#TOP 6

EISCO Laboratory Hydrometer

PH0132C
EISCO Laboratory Hydrometer Cover
EISCO Laboratory Hydrometer - Specific Gravity, Heavy Liquids, Range 1.000 to 2.000 x 0.010 - Includes Protective Case - Eisco Labs

The EISCO Lab Hydrometer is a dual scale hydrometer designed for measuring the relative density in heavy liquids. It is loaded with iron shot and has a range of 1.000 to 2.000 x 0.010. With its 11" length and 0.6" diameter, it is compact and easy to handle. The hydrometer comes with a sturdy plastic protective case, ensuring its durability and protecting it from damage during storage or transportation. While primarily designed for laboratory use, it can also be used in homes and shops. The EISCO Lab Hydrometer is a reliable and versatile tool that provides accurate measurements and convenience for various applications.

What We Like
Accurate readings
Easy to read
Sturdy storage case
Great price
Large numbering and scale
What We Don't Like
Delivery took a while
Size may be large for some
#TOP 7

EISCO Laboratory Hydrometer

PH0132A
EISCO Laboratory Hydrometer Cover
EISCO Laboratory Hydrometer - Specific Gravity, Heavy Liquids, Range 1.000 to 1.500 x 0.010 - Includes Protective Case - Eisco Labs

The EISCO Lab Hydrometer is a dual scale hydrometer designed for measuring the relative density in heavy liquids. With a range of 1.000 to 1.500 x 0.010, this hydrometer is perfect for both laboratory use and in homes and garages. Measuring 11.25" long and 0.6" in diameter, it is compact and easy to handle. The hydrometer comes with a sturdy, plastic protective case, ensuring its durability and making it convenient to carry and store. The shot loaded design of this hydrometer ensures accurate readings. Whether you need to measure specific gravity in a laboratory or at home, the EISCO Lab Hydrometer is a reliable and versatile tool.

What We Like
Easy to read
Floats well
Stable
Very useful product
What We Don't Like
Not for beer/wine making
Hard to find in listings
#TOP 8

KOSOEUR Hydrometer Alcohol Meter Kit

KE230633
HD transparent
KOSOEUR Hydrometer Alcohol Meter Kit Cover
Hydrometer Alcohol Meter Kit, Hydrometer Alcohol 0-200 Proof and Tralle, Alcohol Tester for Liquor, Alcohol Hydrometer for Moonshine, Liquor, Spirits, Proofing, Distilling, with Hydrometer Test Jar

The KOSOEUR Alcohol Meter Kit is perfect for anyone looking to measure high alcohol content in beverages like spirits and moonshine. With its accurate measurement range of 0-200 proof and 0-100% alcohol, you can easily track your brewing process. Made from durable food-grade plastic, this hydrometer is resistant to cracking, ensuring long-lasting use. Designed specifically for high-alcohol content, it provides reliable results for distillers of all levels. Enjoy the convenience of included accessories, such as a test jar and cleaning tools, making your brewing experience even smoother.

What We Like
Very useful in operations
Good quality product
Delivered ahead of schedule
10/10 functionality
What We Don't Like
Plastic hydrometer material
Glass tube arrived broken
#TOP 9

Brewer's Elite Hydrometer - Triple Scale Set

Brewer's Elite
TSH-01
Clear
Hydrometer Set
Brewer's Elite Hydrometer - Triple Scale Set Cover
Brewer's Elite Hydrometer - for Home Brew Beer, Wine, Mead and Kombucha - Deluxe Triple Scale Set, Hardcase and Cloth - Specific Gravity ABV Tester

The Brewer's Elite Hydrometer is an all-glass alcoholmeter that comes with a handy storage case and free microfiber cleaning cloth. With graduated color bands and crystal clear fonts, easily calculate Alcohol % (ABV) and check alcohol density with ease using the triple scale for Specific Gravity, Potential Alcohol, and Brix/Balling. This durable tool is perfect for creating great beers, wines, ciders, and Kombucha at home and for testing when your sample liquid has finished the fermentation process. Plus, enjoy a 100% money-back guarantee.

What We Like
Easy to use
Good packaging and protection
Accurate alcohol estimation
Durable construction
Color coding feature
What We Don't Like
Hard to read in curved containers
Instructions could be clearer
#TOP 10

Circrane Alcohol Hydrometer Kit

SH-BZ-004
Circrane Alcohol Hydrometer Kit Cover
Circrane 0-200 Proof & Tralle Alcohol Hydrometer with Glass Test Jar Kit, Accurate Tester & Glass Cylinder for Liquor, Distilling Moonshine Alcoholmeter Set

The Circrane Alcohol Hydrometer Kit features a 0-200 Proof and 0-100 Tralles double scale alcoholmeter and glass test jar kit that measures the alcohol content of high alcohol liquor, spirits, moonshine, corn whiskey, barrel aging dissipation, infusion batch, and tincture recipes. The narrow measuring cylinder helps reduce waste and obtain accurate readings. The set includes a double scale alcoholmeter, glass test jar, bottle brush, instruction sheet, and microfiber cleaning cloth. It is a great gift idea for homebrew enthusiasts. Note that the hydrometer may not be accurate for beer, wine, or other home brewed beverage with low alcohol content.

What We Like
Well made
Accurate measurements
Easy to use
Great packaging
Ideal for beginners
What We Don't Like
Fragile if mishandled
Check upon arrival
Buying Guide Image

Guidelines for Choosing the Right Lab Hydrometers

Introduction to Lab Hydrometers

A lab hydrometer is a crucial tool for measuring the density of liquids and solutions. This simple device consists of a weighted glass or plastic tube that sinks or floats in a liquid depending on its density. By reading the scale on the hydrometer, the density of the liquid can be determined.

Choosing the Right Hydrometer for Your Needs

When choosing a lab hydrometer, there are several factors to consider. First, consider the range of densities that you need to measure. Different hydrometers are calibrated to measure different ranges of densities, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for your needs.

Another factor to consider is the type of liquid that you will be measuring. Different hydrometers are designed for different types of liquids, so it is important to choose one that is appropriate for the type of liquid you will be using.

Additionally, you should consider the precision and accuracy of the hydrometer. More precise and accurate hydrometers will be more expensive, but they may be worth the investment if you need to make very precise measurements.

Finally, consider the size and shape of the hydrometer. Some hydrometers are designed to be used in small containers, while others are designed for use in larger containers. Choose a hydrometer that is appropriate for the size of the container you will be using.

Conclusion

In conclusion, choosing the right lab hydrometer is important for making accurate measurements of the density of liquids and solutions. Consider the range of densities you need to measure, the type of liquid you will be using, the precision and accuracy of the hydrometer, and the size and shape of the hydrometer when making your decision.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a hydrometer used for in the lab?

A hydrometer is a laboratory instrument used to measure the specific gravity or relative density of liquids. It helps determine the ratio of the density of a liquid to the density of water.

2. What are the three types of hydrometers?

The three main types of hydrometers commonly available are triple scale hydrometers, thermohydrometers, and precision hydrometers. These different types serve various purposes and provide different measurement scales for specific applications in the lab.

3. What are two examples where a hydrometer is commonly used?

Hydrometers are commonly used in various applications such as determining specific gravity in the manufacturing of alcohol, fruit juice, antifreeze, petroleum, and pharmaceuticals. They play a crucial role in measuring and monitoring the density of liquids in these processes.

4. What are the two types of hydrometers?

Hydrometers can be classified into two categories: low-density and high-density. The position of the 1.000 mark on the stem determines whether it is suitable for measuring low-density or high-density liquids. If a low-density liquid needs to be measured, the 1.000 mark should be near the top of the stem, whereas for high-density liquids, the 1.000 mark should be near the bottom of the stem.

Editor's Notes

During our lab hydrometer research, we found 24 lab hydrometer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 75,961 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lab hydrometers list. We found that most customers choose lab hydrometers with an average price of $17.44.

The lab hydrometers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lab hydrometers, including Circrane, EISCO, Haoguo, Home Brew Stuff, Brewing America. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 179 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.