A general kitchen scale can serve both jobs when you brew occasionally. Daily espresso or pour-over work makes coffee-specific features more valuable.
Quick comparison
NeedBakingCoffee
ResolutionUsually 1 gOften 0.1 g
Capacity5 kg is common2 kg may be enough
PlatformFits mixing bowlsFits brewer or espresso tray
ResponseSteady is sufficientFast feedback helps pours
TimerNot necessaryUseful for brew recipes
Choose one scale when simplicity matters
A responsive 0.1 g scale with enough capacity and a platform large enough for your mixing bowl can handle both. Confirm the display remains visible and the device does not time out during longer preparations.
Choose separate scales for daily specialty use
Espresso scales are often compact enough to fit a drip tray and may include timers. Baking scales favor a larger stable platform and higher capacity. Specialization is most useful when the physical setup, not just the measurement, differs.