All refractometers the same?

[~SIRENA~]

I need to buy a refractometer asap. Is there a difference between brands? I've seen some with led lights built in, some heavy duty, some portable, some are standard, but comes with a digital ph meter. Prices range from 29 to 40 dollars on ebay. What do you guys think?
Thanks!

 

[ggk1988]

I have the same question.

 

[Roy G. Biv]

Can you tell me what this reading is?

Counting from the bottom.. Is it 1.048?
Looking at the numbers.. Is it 1.038?

Do we care about readings outside of 1.020 - 1.030?

Thats what you should look for.

 

[c0mp|ex]

that refractometer looks messed up

 

[JuzDuky]

That refractometer scale in the post above looks like it is off center. I have this one from The Filter Guys, an RC sponsor. It works great and is a quality piece of equipment. You really don't need a built in light but make sure that what ever you choose it has "Automatic TemberatureCompensation: (ATC) as the water temp affects readings. Also, get the Pinpoint Calibration Fluid 35 ppt / 1.026 salinity so you can be sure that your refractometer is calibrated at true reading.

 

[useskaforevil]

just make sure you're geting one for saltwater and not one for brix index. they sell those on ebay too

 

[old salty]

I used to own the blue one, and now have the black one. I think the black one is higher quality. I can calibrate it with lab grade water and it will be accurate when compared to a calibration solution. The blue one was a bit off. With the lower cost of the blue one, this was not much of a surprise.

 

[Roy G. Biv]

<a href=showthread.php?s=&postid=11899590#post11899590 target=_blank>Originally posted</a> by c0mp|ex
that refractometer looks messed up

That is from an auction that is mentioned in the first post on ebay.