Brix Refractometer with ATC, Dual Scale - Specific Gravity & Brix, Hydrometer in Wine Making and Beer Brewing, Homebrew Kit

Clear instructions, easy to use, works well for the value

Since this unit includes an SG Wort scale (specific gravity of wort), do not assume this is a universal specific gravity measurement. The SG is calibrated for wort, but can be used with other liquids if you know the math.Refractormeters work on the principle of measuring refractive index. Since there is a known relationship between the refractive index (ri) and specific gravity (SG) for a particular liquid, the reticle on this model scale is graduated to read Brix for sugar solution and SG for wort only.Some negative reviewers have commented that their aquarium's salt content was way off using this device. They should either use a refractometer with a scale specifically for saline, or do some math while using this unit.This model is made for Brix (sugar solution concentration), and SG Wort (specific gravity of wort). These are the formulas for conversion:SG Wort as function of Brix:SG Wort = (Brix / (258.6-(Brix / 258.2)*227.1)) + 1Brix as function of refractive index (ri):Brix = 0.0087 + 699.82353*(ri - 1.3330) - 1801.9215*(ri - 1.3330)^2+ 4696.422*(ri - 1.3330)^3 - 6427.26*(ri - 1.3330)^4For extra credit, you can substitute the 2nd formula into the 1st to find SG Wort as a function of ri.For example, if at a certain temperature the refractive index (ri) of seawater is 1.3394 when its specific gravity is 1.0264, you can calculate the Brix and SG Wort values using the above formulas where ri is set to 1.3394:Brix = 4.4SG Wort = 1.017In other words, you need to observe 1.017 in the reticle SG Wort scale to know that a seawater solution has a specific gravity of 1.0264 (and be sure the temperature of the measured sample matches that of the source data). This may explain why some are obtaining readings which do not compare when used for other purposes other than sugar/wort.As far as my experience with the unit, it is sturdy, reliable, and is a great value at this price. Just know what you're getting into.

I originally left a negative review due to my own misunderstanding. I’ve since learned that refractometers like this one are accurate for wort, but not for beer after fermentation without applying corrections—because alcohol skews the readings. That was my mistake.Now that I understand how to use it properly, I can say it’s a great tool for the price. It’s accurate, easy to read, and perfect for measuring original gravity on brew day. I’ve updated my review to reflect this.

Works good. Easy to use. Good price.

I think hydrometers are good, but i really love how easy this works! I dont have to guess through the discussion of the water and I dont have to lose a lot of my must in samples and risk ruining my mead! I wish it went higher than 1.130 though. Sturdy tool with a storage box and droppers. Definitely worth it! Ive seen this same model priced at my local brew source for $40

This is a good refractometer for the money. The one I had for years finally broke so I got this one and it works great. Just remember to calibrate it with distilled water, by putting a small amount on the face plate and then with a very small screwdriver turn the screw to move the blue line up or down to calibrate it at zero. Then test your sample and it will be very accurate.

This refractometer works great! I read the negative reviews and most of them seem to be from people that don't understand that alcohol throws off SG readings, and you need to compensate for that. It would be helpful if the manufacturer mentioned that in their instructions. If you take that into consideration, then this works great.

I’m a commercial winemaker. I use this very frequently in the vineyard and in the winemaking room. Great value.