The pick for most people who want an accurate pen tester: ±0.01 pH, three-point calibration and a replaceable probe at pen-tester money.
Amazon $79.99The Apera PH60 is the better ph meter overall, rated 3.9 to 2.7. The Apera PH60 leads on accuracy, features and calibration. The Apera PH60 costs $9.96 less ($79.99 vs $89.95).
Prices were last checked November 9, 2026. Product prices and availability are accurate as of that date and are subject to change; the price and availability shown on Amazon or the retailer's site at the time of purchase apply. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
A simple, tough pen for growers checking nutrient pH. The PenPlus costs a little more and adds a replaceable probe.
Amazon $89.95Which should you buy?
- Choose the Apera PH60 for accuracy (±0.01 pH vs ±0.1 pH), features (replaceable probe, automatic temperature compensation, waterproof (IP67) vs automatic temperature compensation, waterproof) and calibration (3-point calibration vs 2-point calibration).
Scores side by side
Each factor is scored 0-100 against the same fixed reference points for every pen testers ph meter; a clear win is highlighted. How we rank explains each one.
| Factor weight | Apera PH60 | Bluelab pH Pen |
|---|---|---|
| Overall rating | 3.9/5 | 2.7/5 |
| Accuracy 30% | 81 ±0.01 pH | 19 ±0.1 pH |
| Calibration 15% | 85 3-point calibration | 50 2-point calibration |
| Features 20% | 80 replaceable probe, automatic temperature compensation, waterproof (IP67) | 40 automatic temperature compensation, waterproof |
| Extra readings 10% | 0 pH and temperature only | 0 pH and temperature only |
| Price 15% | 88 $79.99 | 82 $89.95 |
| Warranty 10% | 25 2-year meter warranty | 0 1-year meter warranty |
Specifications
| Apera PH60 | Bluelab pH Pen | |
|---|---|---|
| pH measurement | ||
| Accuracy | ±0.01 pH | ±0.1 pH |
| Resolution | 0.01 pH | 0.1 pH |
| Range | -2 to 16 pH | 0 to 14 pH |
| Calibration | 3-point | 2-point |
| Temperature compensation | Yes | Yes |
| Other readings | ||
| Conductivity (EC/TDS) | No | No |
| ORP | No | No |
| Salinity | No | No |
| Build | ||
| Replaceable probe | Yes | No |
| Waterproof rating | IP67 | Waterproof |
| Battery life | 2,000 hours | - |
| Weight | 133 g | - |
| Meter warranty | 2 years | 1 year |
| Probe warranty | 6 months | - |
