As an electric instrument, the best pH meter for lab use is getting popular day by day for its versatile uses. Although it is widely used in scientific research projects in laboratories, you can use it for various other purposes. The agricultural field, for instance, is making the best use of it by soil measurement, water quality measurement, etc.
So, what does a pH meter definition say? Well, it’s an electronic device that determines the acidity or alkalinity of any solution. To put it straight- a pH meter is the main tool used in a solution to estimate the hydrogen-ion concentration of that solution.
However, pH scales that are designed for lab use have tons of other features as well. But to buy the best pH meter for lab use can be a toiling task without any profound knowledge of the product.
So, let us walk you through our top ten list of best pH meter for lab use below. Furthermore, you will learn both their amenities and drawbacks too.
Our Favorite pH Meter
Last update on 2024-04-26 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Comparison Table
| Product | Description |
| Bluelab Pen pH Meter | i. Fully waterproof ii. Two-point calibration iii. Correct and consistent reading |
| VIVOSUN pH and TDS Meter Combo | i. User-friendly ii. Reliable pH readings iii. Auto shut off system |
| Dr.meter 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy Digital pH Tester Pen | i. Anti-slip design ii. Automatic calibration iii. Large LCD |
| Embryant High-Precision Digital pH Meter | i. Super accurate pH measurement ii. Wide uses in several industries including lab tests iii. Low battery indicator |
| Ruolan Yellow Digital pH Meter with 0-14 Measurement Range | i. Most lightweight feature ii. Straightforward to use iii. Auto temperature adjustments |
| GroTheory Digital pH Meter and TDS Meter Combo | i. Both for lab tests and home applications ii. Handy protection case iii. Accurate pH reading |
| Allprettyall Digital pH Tester | i. 100% authentic product quality ii. 3 in 1 testing format iii. Powerful long battery life |
| Oakton AO EcoTestr pH Meter | i. Hands-free measurement ii. Large digital screen iii. One-touch calibration |
| PmoYoKo Digital 3 in 1 pH Meter with ATC pH Tester | i. pH, TDS, and temperature readings ii. Versatile use iii. User-friendly buttons |
| Extenuating Threads pH Meter with TDS Meter and Soil Tester | i. Fast and facile pH reading ii. Auto shut off system iii. Value for the money with 3 testing kits |
Our Top 10 Selections of Best pH Meters for Lab Use
1. Bluelab Pen pH Meter
The very first spot on this list is occupied by a super handy best pH meter for lab use from the Bluelab family. With this amazing pH scale, you will get all the industry-grade support a digital meter should have. The robust ergonomics make it even more desirable to be used in lab testing. Also, the accuracy and adaptability are more than expected in this price range.
Key Features
Fast and Faultless Readings: Being architectured with a double-junction probe, it ensures to offer rapid and reliable readings every time you use it. Rely on this latest production of Bluelab to know exactly what you need to add to your solution. Perhaps consistency in measurement is the key feature of this pen pH meter to invest in.
Two-Point Calibration: The rapid and reliable two-point calibration system is very praise-worthy for quick and easy setup. Thanks to the backlit LCD, which shows the 30 days calibration indicator. Please remember to calibrate carefully before the very first use to avoid any hassle.
Auto Tempers Compensation: Bluelab incorporated the automatic temperature compensation feature to add more to this amazing product. As a result, you get the perfect and precise measurement regardless of the location. Moreover, the auto-off feature is pretty convenient too.
Pros
- Not Only water-resistant but also fully waterproof
- User-friendly operation
- The handheld feature makes it easily portable
- The low battery indicator works as a warning to battery replacement
- The auto shut off feature maximizes battery life
Cons
- A bit slow to provide a perfect reading
- Demands expensive solutions that are not mentioned in the description
2. VIVOSUN pH and TDS Meter Combo
Looking for a pocket-size pH meter? VIVOSUN is the best hydroponic ph meter to help you out. With their exclusive pH and TDS meter combo, you can get ultra-accurate measurements and get the fastest readings.
Talking of this metal probe ph meter for water, you can use it both for lab and home applications. However, let’s explore some of its outstanding features below!
Key Features
Measurement Range: As a trustworthy measurement device, this VIVOSUN is the best pH meter for lab use comes with a full range of assessments- that is, pH 0-14. Moreover, the readings are 100% acceptable and reliable to run on your project.
Easy to Use: We loved the user-friendly interface with the lock function. Because of this feature, the readings are recorded and locked for further use.
Auto Shut Off: Just like the Bluelab one, it has an auto shut off feature too. You will enjoy the nine minutes automatic shut-off system that will prevent the battery from running down.
Accessories: If you buy this pH scale, the package includes 3 in 1 TDS meters and three calibration buffers along with it. What makes it more reliable is the protective case to pack the product carefully.
Lightweight: It weighs 7 ounces only, pretty lightweight to make it portable. Besides, the handheld construction makes it even more carryable.
Pros
- Suitable for both home and lab pH testings
- A vast range of applications in water purification, water quality measurement, hydroponic, aquaculture, swimming pools, etc.
- Handy, lightweight, and therefore portable
- High-quality construction
- Very easy to use
Cons
- Sometimes a bit inconsistent in terms of readings
- No screw is included to adapt to the different temperatures of calibrating solution
3. Dr.meter 0.01 Resolution High Accuracy Digital pH Tester Pen
As the name suggests, we came up with an amazing solution to all your pH measurements demands on the third spot of our review. This high accuracy pH tester is made by Dr.meter, the best digital ph meter in this industry.
It comes with a portable carrying case to keep the pH meter intact. However, it has a wide range of uses as one of the best pH meters for lab use, like water testing, food processing, hydroponic test, cosmetic evaluation, and many more.
Key Features
Anti Slip Architecture: Being designed with a superior ergonomic structure, the anti-slip design on both edges says it all for this pH tester. There is no way you will suddenly drop it to break. This feature certainly prolongs the lifespan of the product.
User-Friendly: The device is powered by 2 AAA batteries which you can change quite conveniently. Also, the portable case makes it easier to carry everywhere. No overwhelming technology is used to make it inaccessible for the users.
Auto Calibration: Another praiseworthy feature of this high-accuracy digital pH tester is the 3 point calibration procedures. Because of this automatic calibration process, you can get the pH readings faster than ever.
Digital LCD Screen: No more struggle to squint at the small screen. Dr.meter comes with a large LCD to show you the pH value clearly. On top of that, you will get an alert when it turns too low or too high.
Pros
- 0-70 degree auto temperature compensation contributes to a high accuracy range
- 3 point calibration methods make it more accurate in terms of pH readings
- Wide range of application
- The 15 minutes auto shut off system saves battery
Cons
- You might be disappointed by its high maintenance
4. Embryant High-Precision Digital pH Meter
Next on this review, we will talk about an exceptionally accurate pH tester with 0.01 precision, similar to the previous one from Dr.meter. This is also well-known as a pocket pH tester for its lightweight design.
Having a pH range of 0-14, it is well-received by users worldwide as a reliable tester. This premium-grade water quality tester is best used in aquariums, swimming pools, anPros test drinking water.
Key Features
Stable pH Reading: Embryant made this digital device to help you with the exact pH balance of water. Therefore, they went easy with this one to make it effortlessly accessible. Anybody can use it as instructed in the user manual. The stable and reliable reading will not confuse the users at all.
Automatic Calibration: As it comes with buffer powder, there is an auto-calibration option by using the one-touch button.
Instant pH Reading with High Accuracy: The auto temperature compensation can adjust to any water quality for instant pH value. However, the sensitive electrode sensor is highly effective for the precision measurement of the pH level.
Pros
- Wide use in water testing for several industries
- Built-in automatic temperature compensation ranging from 0-80°C
- The handheld design makes it user friendly
- 7.05 ounces weight is suitable to be carried in your pocket
- The low battery indicator is an excellent add-on to alert you
Cons
- Comes with only one of each calibration powder
- Difficult to calibrate at the beginning
5. Ruolan Yellow Digital pH Meter with 0-14 Measurement Range
Are you looking for the best ph meter for hydroponics? Then give it a try, which is the most lightweight on the list as well. We loved this lab pH meter by Ruolan because of its high-accuracy measurement.
Apart from the pocket-sized construction, the eye-catching yellow color will also draw your attention. Furthermore, the well-built structure is a big plus on this tiny digital pH tester.
Let’s look for what it offers.
Key Features
Weeny Dimensions: As already mentioned, this mini-sized pH meter is built with 3.21 ounces only. The whole package comes with the dimensions of 6.93×2.09×1m26 inches. Because of this infinitesimal volume, it is most wanted by the frequent travelers to carry anywhere they want.
Batteries: To run this digital pH scale uninterruptedly, 1 CR2 battery is needed. Bother not to buy it as the package comes with batteries.
Great Household Essentials: No matter why and which water you need to test, this should be your go-to testing kit. For example, water from swimming pool to aquarium, drinking water to hydroponics- you can seal the deal with this mini kit from Ruolan anytime, anywhere. What more do you want from a pocket tester like this?
Pros
- An all-time family essential to test water quality accurately
- Very easy to use even for first-time users
- Automatic temperature adjustments according to water quality
- Best value for the money
Cons
- Needs frequent calibration which is costly
6. GroTheory Digital pH Meter and TDS Meter Combo
At the sixth spot of this review, you are going to meet a world-class pH pen as your go-to water testing kit. This pH and TDS meter combo justifies the water quality you use and improves the productivity of life. Being engineered to be run with 1 LR44 battery, GroTheory lessens your burden by offering the battery with the package itself.
Key Features
Vast Range of Uses: Apart from testing your daily drinking water, this pH scale also measures water purity from swimming pools, fish tanks, RO systems, etc. Basically, it is an all-purpose pH testing kit that you can use in any environment.
Accurate Data: For a water quality tester, credibility comes first. It is essential to assess the exact pH balance of water for laboratory research or home applications. GroTheory, in this regard, doesn’t disappoint you. The pH pen rapidly and reliably measures the water purity level and swiftly shows the authentic result on the screen. The measurement ranges from 0-9999 ppm, along with various indicators of how drinkable the water is.
Temperature Adjustments: Both the pH meter and the TDS meter come with auto adaptability to temperatures. Resultantly, the temperature difference of the testing liquid cannot affect the measurement procedure.
Pros
- Comes in a handy protection case to be stored properly
- Wide range of uses makes it more desirable
- Pretty accurate in the measurement result
Cons
- The calibration instructions need to be clearer
- Sometimes it fluctuates in pH readings
7. Allprettyall Digital pH Tester
If you are searching for a good quality pH meter for lab use, you cannot rely on the Allprettyall products. They come with industry-leading pH testers to make your life easier with water.
No exception in this high-accuracy blue pH scale as well. This round-shaped model is 7.2 inches deep and is built with compound material. No wonder this is a high-quality add-on in this field.
Key Features
100% Quality Assurance: Allprettyall is so confident about the product quality that they offer you a full refund if you don’t like it. But the sturdy construction, along with the handy operation, will blow your mind for sure.
3 in 1 Testing Format: One of the most exciting features of this pH tester is it’s 3 in 1 quality testing- pH, TDS, and temperature. All three things can be assessed simultaneously, that too, with the ultimate precision.
Automatic Calibration: What we loved more about this digital water testing kit is the three-point auto-calibration mode. You can calibrate the well-built electrode probe in the solutions of pH 4.00, pH 6.86, and pH 9.18. This three-point calibration makes the difference with its contemporary pH meters by offering way more accuracy in water testing.
Pros
- Wide applications in household activities, lab teaching, hydroponics, drinking water, etc.
- Green LCD display shows clear readings in any condition
- Powerful long batteries make it usable for long hours
- Omnidirectional water quality testing tests pH, TDS, and temperature perfectly and precisely
Cons
- Doesn’t last too long
- The pH readings can get stuck sometimes
8. Oakton AO EcoTestr pH Meter
How about trying the latest invention from the Oakton family to test your daily usable water as a hydroponic ph meter? This digital display pH meter measures water quality pretty quickly than others. On top of that, it comes with a more intuitive interface to make the testing procedure easier than ever.
Key Features
Larger Digital Display: Compared to its previous version, Oakton updated the display to make it larger. As a result, a better angle to view the readings is offered by the digital screen.
Indicators: Oakton invented this pocket tester with battery life, calibration, and readiness. Moreover, you can view both the temperature reading and parameter reading at a time.
Leak-Proof Cap: Being architectured with a leak-free cap adds value to the field use. Featuring a filling line, it also instructs you how much sample is needed. So, no more waste of sample liquid!
Hands-Free Measurement: While being used as a sample cup, the cap is attached to the top of the pH meter. It works as a stable base to keep the meter upright and ensures hands-free water quality measurement.
One-Touch Calibration: This 5.6 ounces contest surprises the users with a convenient one-touch calibration of up to three points, adding a fourth key in the keypad.
Pros
- User-friendly interface with simplified navigation system
- Larger digital display to show clear and correct pH value along with temperature readings
- Redesigned leak-proof cap to make sure hand-free measurements
Cons
- Not appropriate for daily use
- A bit pricey compared to the benefits
9. PmoYoKo Digital 3 in 1 pH Meter with ATC pH Tester
Need a small but powerful pH testing kit? Look no further and go for this digital pocket-size pH pen with the advantage of pH, temperature, and TDS testing. Have a look below to follow its further benefits.
Key Features
3 in 1 Function: In the water testing sector, this can be considered as an allrounder as it measures pH, TDS, and temperature at a time.
Versatility: Another plus side of this digital pH scale is its versatile uses in various fields. Be it your bathtub or pool; you can determine the water purity level by using this pH pen tester. Besides, soap mixture, drinking water, food, beer/wine, or any other liquid- everything can be tested by it.
ATC Testing: A unique inclusion in this digital pH pen is ATC (Automatic Temperature Compensation) testing. Due to temperature changes, sometimes the device might deliver inaccurate readings. But no worries! The ATC testing will instantly solve the issue to provide the exact pH value.
User-friendly Button: To shift from pH to TDS is just one press away on this incomparable device. The buttons are simple and sensitive enough to make this happen without any failure.
Pros
- Three extra batteries included
- The highly sensitive glass probe increases accuracy to 0.01
- Backlit LCD screen for glare-free vision
- Five minutes auto power-off prolongs battery life
Cons
- Unsteady readings in the aquarium
- No pouch or storage cage included
10. Extenuating Threads pH Meter with TDS Meter and Soil Tester
We have included a three-pack digital kit on the very last spot, which is absolutely bang for your bucks. It is a premium quality lab pH meter for its multipurpose functionalities in the industrial and scientific sectors. Although designed small, the widespread applications in pH and TDS testing and even soil testing increased its popularity worldwide.
Key Features
Three Items: It is a full package for testing pH and EC that includes three testing kits. The pH meter values the pH balance in any liquid solution which is yellow in color. The blue TDS and EC meter are followed by a green soil tester. This three items’ package meets all your testing demands in both homes and labs.
Versatile Functionality: Along with compensating with the temperature, it has some other features you will be happy about. It has a lock and auto power off system too. Moreover, the soil meter is absolutely admirable for maintaining the pH balance in the soil.
Fast and Facile Use: A susceptible electrode sensor and a single press can make the device run. Operating this digital meter is no rocket science. In addition, it only takes a few seconds to display the accurate pH readings.
Pros
- Super value for the money as it comes with 3 testing kits
- Clear and correct measurement results rapidly appear on the screen
- Widespread applications include the best use in gardening
Cons
- Might malfunction after several uses
Best pH Meter For Lab Use Buying Guide
We all know that lab researchers require frequent testing of numerous solutions. That’s why a digital pH meter is the best way to run cost-effective pH testing in lab works. But what features should a lab test meter have to serve for a pretty long time?
Below, we will talk about the considerable things about purchasing a pH kit for lab use.
Accuracy Range
Suppose you are conducting quality control research in the lab. Can you imagine how important it is to maintain the maximum accuracy in pH testing? Surely, you can. Here comes the first notable feature of a digital pH testing meter which is accuracy.
Having a range of ±0.1 to ±0.001, the accuracy may differ. For example, a pH meter with ±0.1 accuracy is an ideal choice for lab projects.
Reading Temperature
To maintain accuracy, the temperature is the next key thing to consider for successful pH testing. Always remember that the meter and the sample should have the same temperature. Otherwise, you will get inaccurate readings for calculation.
To put this possibility away, a pH meter with auto temperature compensation is highly recommended by experts.
Types
Always concentrate on the meter type based on your working needs. For laboratory work, you need meters with lab-quality readings, right? Benchtop meters will be okay in this case. But what if you need to carry it to fields, ponds, or somewhere else. In that case, portable meters with handheld features are suggested. And for any hydroponic project, waterproof pH scales are the best options to count on.
Calibration
Both manual and automated calibrations are great in their own way. But it will take a while to get accustomed to the manual process. If you are into immediate action, go for the automatic one. Just a single touch will start the job.
For better results, at least two-point calibration is required. But lab projects need to check pH for a wide range of solutions. In that case, it is better to have a pH meter with 3 to 5 point calibration.
Electrode
How fast a meter will respond and show the pH value on the screen highly depends on its electrode. Most of the digital meters use glass-probe electrodes. You need to choose whether you want it sealed or refillable. The sealed one is easy to use with a bit of maintenance. On the other hand, refillable is easy to clean but not waterproof. You should decide your pick based on your preferences.
How Do You Use a pH Meter Step by Step?
For getting the most accurate pH value, you must use the meter correctly. A single mistake can cost you a lot- probably, you need to start from scratch again. So, learning the proper use of a pH meter is mandatory.
Follow the following steps accordingly to measure pH perfectly.
Step 1: Choosing Calibration Type
First, set your pH meter into the calibration mode and select the calibration point. Some devices are compatible with 2 or 3 point calibration; some are suitable with 1 or 2 points. So, decide on the calibration type your device is capable of.
Step 2: Blending the Buffers
In this step, you need to decant the buffer to a small container or beaker. This will prevent the electrode from running through the buffer.
Step 3: First Point Calibrating
Now it’s time to perform the first calibration. Immerse the electrode into the buffer, placing the sensor side down. Then carefully wave it back and forth into the solution.
Step 4: Cleaning the Electrode
After finishing the first point calibration, you need to rinse the electrode with water. This will lead the second calibration point to a fresh start.
Step 5: Second Point Calibration
Start the second point calibration in the same way as the first one. Then wash off the electrode again to eradicate any trace of the buffer solution. Continue the process until you finish all the calibration points.
Step 6: Measuring Sample
At this point, turn on the measurement mode according to the instructions of the user manual. Then place the electrode into the sample solution to get the pH value. Shake it gently backward and forward. You can stop once you get a clear and consistent pH reading.
Step 7: Storing the Device
Once you measured your testing sample using the pH meter, you stored it properly. Now it’s high time. Measuring more than samples will require repeating the same method. At the final point, rinse the electrode thoroughly again with clean water and store it into the storage solution for further use.
Which Method Is Used for pH Measurement in Research Laboratory?
The pH meter definition in chemistry basically measures the hydrogen ion concentration in a liquid. To determine the pH level of a solution, several methods have been used since long ago. However, pH meter testing is the best of all among them. The two basic methods of measuring pH are as follow-
Colorimetric Method
The most inexpensive way of determining pH is using pH paper as an indicator. It marks the basicity and acidity of a liquid solution and changes colors accordingly. For example, litmus paper. But the results are not reliable enough for industrial uses. So, lab testing doesn’t use it.
Electrochemical Method
This method uses electrodes and a pH meter to determine the pH value. Not only does the pH meter give reliable readings, but it also is easy to carry. Resultantly, this method is more popular and cost-effective. One step above, you can use a pH meter for a long period.
Apart from the other conveniences, accuracy matters the most in research laboratories. Due to the comprehensive concern of quality control, the electrochemical method is widely used to conduct pH scaling in lab applications. However, you can use this procedure for field projects too. Nevertheless, for stationary lab experiments, benchtop pH meters with glass electrodes are preferable by scientists.
FAQ
How do you measure pH in a lab?
Generally, hydrogen ions are measured when scientists test the pH of any solution in a lab. In this regard, a pH meter is the most trustworthy tool. You need to wash the pH probe with distilled water first. Then enter the probe into the testing solution, and the pH reading will be displayed on the meter within a few seconds.
What is the importance of a pH meter?
To measure the purity of water, whether it is drinking water or for other uses, checking its acidity or alkalinity is a must. Without a pH meter, it is nearly impossible to get the authentic pH balance of a liquid solution, leading to environmental disasters. In a word, a pH meter is an absolute must to judge the chemical condition of a solution.
Is a pH meter accurate?
It is. You can definitely rely on the pH reading. But be sure to check the accuracy range first. Usually, a pH meter ranges from 0.01 to 0.001. Based on the accuracy level, the pH reading may fluctuate.
How do you install a pH meter?
Upon receiving the pH meter box, first, unpack it carefully. Then check the voltage supply source if it is compatible with the meter or not. After that, place the electrode arm to the left or right-hand side. You need to inlay the fixing screw and infix it at this point. Finally, set up the electrode arm onto the root fixing post. That’s it; you are done.
What is the principle of the pH meter?
Talking of the pH meter principle decides the acidity or alkalinity of a liquid solution, which depends on hydrogen ion density. Having an electrode probe, a pH meter receives signals while embedded in a solution. Based on the signal, the pH value is displayed on the screen of the meter.
Final Verdict
Here are our reviews of the best pH meter for lab use to an end. Along with the top ten product reviews, we also discussed the pH meter working mechanism for your better understanding. Now it’s your turn to choose the best deal.
If you opt for the most lightweight feature, the Ruolan Digital pH Meter is the best option with only 3.21 inches weight. As a waterproof device, we would recommend the Bluelab Pen pH Meter. And as the most value-for-money purchase, Extenuating Threads 3 Pack pH Meter is the greatest grab considering its multifunctional features.
However, we hope you can make the best use of this electric instrument by understanding its working mechanism. It has, indeed, a vast range of implications in several sectors in today’s world.
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