Introduction

In pour-over coffee brewing, timing is everything. The right extraction time can make the difference between a bright, balanced cup and one that’s flat or over-extracted. While many coffee lovers focus on grind size and water temperature, mastering the timer function on your coffee scale is just as important. A built-in timer ensures consistency, control, and repeatability — key factors for brewing like a pro.

Why Time Matters in Pour Overs

1. Controls Extraction

Coffee extraction is all about balance. Under-extraction (too short) leaves your brew sour and thin, while over-extraction (too long) makes it bitter and heavy. Using your scale’s timer helps you hit the sweet spot every time, typically 2:30–3:30 minutes for most pour-over recipes.

2. Improves Consistency

Brewing by feel is romantic, but it’s rarely repeatable. A timer lets you replicate your best brew exactly — same grind, same water flow, same flavor profile.

3. Helps Manage Pouring Rhythm

If you’ve ever accidentally rushed or slowed your pour, you know it changes the cup dramatically. Watching the timer helps you maintain a steady flow rate and avoid channeling.

How to Use Your Scale’s Timer for Pour Overs

Step 1: Prep Your Gear

Place your brewer and filter on the scale, tare to zero, and get your hot water ready.

Step 2: Start Timer with the First Pour

When you begin the bloom (first pour), start the timer. Most recipes call for a 30–45 second bloom to let the coffee degas.

Step 3: Track Each Pour Interval

Divide your total brew into stages. For example:

• 0:00–0:45: Bloom (40–60g water)

• 0:45–1:30: Second pour (to 150g)

• 1:30–2:15: Third pour (to 230g)

• 2:15–3:00: Final pour (to 300g)

Step 4: End at Target Time

Your brew should finish dripping around your target total time (e.g., 3:15). Adjust grind size and flow rate if it’s too fast or slow.

Choosing a Scale with a Timer Function

When shopping for a coffee scale, make sure it has:

• Responsive timer control (starts/stops instantly)

• Dual display for weight and time

• Waterproof or water-resistant build for durability

• Precision down to 0.1g for accurate measurements

If you want an advanced option, the MANTABREW WeighMaster Coffee Scale offers auto-timer modes, pour rate display, and a TFT flip screen for both home and café workflows.

Related Articles

• How to Read Flow Rate & Extraction Time on Smart Coffee Scales

• From Pour Over to Espresso: Switching Modes with One Smart Module

• Brew Anywhere: Why MANTABREW Coffee Scales Are a Must-Have for Outdoor Coffee Lovers

Bottom line: Using your coffee scale’s timer isn’t just about numbers — it’s about unlocking a new level of brewing consistency. Master your timing, and you’ll never have to guess why your coffee tastes different from one cup to the next.

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