Anton Paar has been a big name in the measuring tech field for decades. Their high-end alcohol meters and density meters enjoy a great reputation for quality and accuracy, but they will set you back almost $10,000 for a tabletop version. Recently the company developed an (almost) pocket-sized density meter aimed at the small craft brewer and homebrewer. It operates through a free smartphone app and uses the same oscillating U-tube technology as the more expensive models. The small density meter will still set you back a solid $500 with shipping, but if that’s in your budget, the EasyDens deserves a close look.
The unit seems to be solidly constructed, and a plastic cover guards the unit from accidental spillage. Downloading and setting up the free Android app took no time. An app for iPhones is also available. The unit is calibrated using deionized water, but in our test, no calibration was needed.
The Anton Paar EasyDens.
To get a density reading, you need 2–3 millimeters of your sample wort/beer. That required volume is one big advantage, especially if you’re trying to track fermentation daily. Compare that to the 5 fluid ounces (147 ml) or more needed to fill a hydrometer’s test jar, and we are talking about pints of precious brew saved for when you actually want it.