Overloading a truck compromises safety, fuel economy, and suspension longevity. We researched and compared the most popular onboard scales for trucks, evaluating manufacturer specifications, industry load-sensor standards, and aggregated owner feedback. Our goal is to help you choose a system that balances accuracy, durability, and ease of use. Below are our findings, with honest assessments of each product’s real-world limitations.
| Photo | Product | Score | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
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Reese Air Scale Best Overall Wireless display, measures tongue and gross weight, 20,000 lb capacity |
9.0 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Wheel Check LoadScale Best for Accuracy Individual wheel load cells, 15,000 lb per pad, Bluetooth app |
8.7 | 🛒 Check Price |
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TST 507 TPMS with Load Sensors Best with TPMS Tire pressure and temperature monitoring plus load sensing, 12,000 lb per sensor |
8.4 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Air Lift WirelessOne Best for Air Bags Wireless controller for air bag systems, 5,000 lb capacity per bag |
8.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
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SureTrace Onboard Scale Best for Permanent Install Permanent load cell install on frame, 30,000 lb total capacity |
7.8 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Weigh Safe Drop Hitch Best Hitch Scale Built-in scale in hitch, 10,000 lb tongue weight capacity |
7.3 | 🛒 Check Price |
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Curt 51100 Trailer Scale Best Budget Portable scale for tongue weight, 5,000 lb capacity |
7.1 | 🛒 Check Price |
1. Reese Air Scale: Best Overall
The Reese Air Scale earned the top spot in our evaluation thanks to its blend of accuracy, portability, and ease of use. Based on owner feedback and the spec sheet, it measures both tongue weight and gross trailer weight using air pressure sensors. The wireless display provides clear readouts, and installation takes minutes if you already have air bags. We found it particularly suited for RVers and boaters who frequently tow varying loads.
However, this system is entirely dependent on air suspension. If your truck lacks air bags or you don’t tow, this is not for you. Some users noted the display can be hard to read in direct sunlight. Skip the Reese Air Scale if you need a permanent, hardwired solution or if your trailer doesn’t have air suspension.
- Wireless handheld display shows real-time weight distribution
- Works with any trailer using air suspension or air bags
- Simple installation: inflate sensor between air bag and valve
Pros: Accurate to within 100 lb per owner feedback; Easy to move between vehicles; No permanent wiring required
Cons: Only works with air suspension systems; Display battery life could be longer
2. Wheel Check LoadScale: Best for Accuracy
The Wheel Check LoadScale impressed us with its laboratory-grade accuracy. In our research, owner feedback consistently praised the per-wheel measurement capability, which helps diagnose tire pressure and suspension issues. The Bluetooth app is intuitive, and the aluminum load cells are built to last. This is the go-to for serious overlanders and fleet operators who need precise weight data.
On the downside, the cost is prohibitive for casual users, and you must drive onto the pads every time you want a reading, which can be inconvenient. The app occasionally disconnects, according to some reviews. Skip this if you want a permanently installed system or if your budget is limited.
- Four wireless load pads measure each wheel independently
- Bluetooth app displays per-wheel and total weight
- Rugged aluminum construction with IP67 rating
Pros: Highest accuracy among portable systems; Provides individual wheel weights for balancing; Weatherproof and durable
Cons: Expensive compared to air-based systems; Requires driving onto pads each time
3. TST 507 TPMS with Load Sensors: Best with TPMS
The TST 507 system is a smart choice for those who want both tire monitoring and load awareness. Based on manufacturer specs and owner feedback, the load sensing is derived from tire pressure changes, which provides a rough estimate rather than exact weight. We found it useful for avoiding obvious overloads, but not for compliance or precise weighing.
The main limitation is accuracy: it can be off by several hundred pounds. Also, the initial setup is tedious, requiring sensors on every tire. Skip this if you need certified accuracy or if you don’t want to deal with sensor batteries.
- Combines TPMS with load measurement via pressure sensors
- Repeater extends range for long trailers
- Solar-powered display available
Pros: Two-in-one: tire safety and load monitoring; Good customer support; Repeater ensures reliable signal
Cons: Load accuracy less precise than dedicated scales; Installation requires sensor mounting on each tire
4. Air Lift WirelessOne: Best for Air Bags
The Air Lift WirelessOne is a solid choice for trucks already equipped with Air Lift air bags. It allows you to adjust pressure from the driver’s seat, which indirectly helps manage load leveling. Based on owner feedback, it’s a reliable system that simplifies air bag management.
However, it does not provide actual weight readings, only pressure. You must use a conversion chart to estimate load, which is less accurate than dedicated scales. Skip this if you need direct weight measurement or if you don’t have air bags.
- Controls air bag pressure wirelessly from inside cab
- Built-in compressor and tank (sold separately)
- LED display shows pressure in PSI
Pros: Convenient in-cab control; Reliable brand with good support; Easy to retrofit
Cons: Does not directly measure weight, only pressure; Limited to air bag systems
5. SureTrace Onboard Scale: Best for Permanent Install
The SureTrace Onboard Scale is designed for commercial and heavy-duty use. In our evaluation, its load cells are robust and the alarm feature adds safety. Owner feedback indicates good accuracy once calibrated, but installation is not DIY-friendly and may void warranties if done incorrectly.
The wired display is less convenient than wireless options, and the system is overkill for light towing. Skip this if you want a portable solution or if you aren’t comfortable with permanent modifications.
- Bolt-on load cells for truck frame
- Wired display with backlight
- Alarm function for overload
Pros: Permanent, always ready; High capacity for heavy hauling; Alarm prevents overloading
Cons: Professional installation required; Wiring can be complex
6. Weigh Safe Drop Hitch: Best Hitch Scale
The Weigh Safe Drop Hitch is a clever concept: a drop hitch with a built-in mechanical scale. Based on owner feedback, it works well for getting a quick tongue weight reading, which is crucial for proper weight distribution. The mechanical design means no batteries to fail.
However, it only measures tongue weight, not total trailer weight, and the gauge’s accuracy diminishes near the upper limit. Some users reported the needle sticking. Skip this if you need full weight data or if you tow heavy loads near the hitch’s capacity.
- Measures tongue weight via built-in gauge
- Adjustable drop for level towing
- No batteries or electronics
Pros: Mechanical, no power needed; Combines hitch and scale; Easy to read gauge
Cons: Only measures tongue weight, not gross; Gauge can be inaccurate at extremes
7. Curt 51100 Trailer Scale: Best Budget
The Curt 51100 is a budget-friendly option for measuring tongue weight. In our research, it’s adequate for occasional use and light trailers. Owner feedback highlights its simplicity and low cost, but many note the plastic housing feels fragile and the display is small.
Accuracy is acceptable for general awareness but not for precise loading. It also requires you to lift the trailer tongue onto the scale, which can be awkward. Skip this if you need a permanent or heavy-duty solution.
- Compact, handheld scale for tongue weight
- LCD display with auto shut-off
- Includes carry case
Pros: Very affordable; Portable and easy to store; Works with most trailers
Cons: Only measures tongue weight; Less durable than other options
Frequently Asked Questions
How do onboard scales for trucks work?
Most onboard scales use load cells or pressure sensors to measure weight. Load cells are strain gauges that convert force into an electrical signal, while pressure sensors measure air pressure in air bag systems and correlate it to weight. Some systems use tire pressure monitoring to estimate load. Accuracy varies by technology.
Can I install an onboard scale myself?
It depends on the system. Portable scales like the Reese Air Scale or Weigh Safe hitch are easy to install with basic tools. Permanent systems like the SureTrace require professional installation due to wiring and frame mounting. Always check the manufacturer’s instructions.
Are onboard scales legal for commercial use?
For legal weight compliance, you need certified scales. Most consumer onboard scales are not legal for trade. They are useful for avoiding overloads but may not hold up in a weigh station inspection. Check local regulations for commercial requirements.
Do I need a scale for each axle?
Not necessarily. Some systems measure total weight, while others measure per wheel. For safety, knowing the gross weight and tongue weight is often sufficient. Per-axle data helps with weight distribution but is not required for most drivers.
What is the difference between tongue weight and gross weight?
Tongue weight is the downward force exerted by the trailer on the hitch. Gross weight is the total weight of the trailer and its cargo. Both are important for safe towing. Many onboard scales measure only one, so choose based on your needs.
Our Verdict
After researching and comparing the top onboard scales for trucks, our top pick is the Reese Air Scale for its excellent balance of accuracy, ease of use, and portability. For those needing the highest precision, the Wheel Check LoadScale is the runner up, providing individual wheel weights that are invaluable for serious haulers.
