Rice Lake Counterpart vs. Avery Weigh-Tronix ZK830 Counting Scale

When it comes to precision parts counting and industrial weighing, both the Avery Weigh-Tronix ZK830 series and the Rice Lake Counterpart offer powerful solutions — but they are different style counting scales. 

The ZK830 is a high-resolution, all-in-one bench scale system designed for maximum accuracy and versatility in demanding environments. Meanwhile, the Counterpart is a configurable counting indicator platform, built for flexibility and integration with multiple scale bases.

In this Counterpart vs. ZK-830 review, we’ll break down each system’s features, benefits, potential drawbacks, and ideal use cases so you can confidently choose the right solution for you.

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Avery Weigh-Tronix ZK830 Series Overview

Key Features

• High-resolution Quartzell digital technology with up to 1 billion internal counts

• Multi-function: counting scale, checkweigher, and bench scale

• Sampling accuracy up to 99.5%+ (configurable)

• 40 PLU storage for piece weights and targets

• Supports dual base operation (local + remote platform) [needs optional keypad]

• High-resolution 

• Overload protection

• Connectivity: RS-232, Ethernet, USB, I/O for peripherals

• Available platform sizes:

  • 6” round

  • 9” × 12”

  • 12” × 14”

• Capacity range: 1 lb up to 175 lb depending on configuration

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ZK830 Benefits

1. Exceptional Accuracy for Small Parts
The Quartzell technology allows the ZK830 to count extremely small components (down to milligram-level), making it ideal for electronics, medical, or precision manufacturing.

2. True Multi-Function Platform
Unlike many counting scales, the ZK830 can seamlessly switch between counting, check weighing, and standard weighing—reducing the need for multiple devices.

3. Built for Industrial Environments
With rugged construction, overload protection, and configurable filtering, it performs reliably in real-world shop conditions.

4. Dual Platform Capability
The ability to connect a second base is a major productivity boost—operators can sample on a small precision base and count bulk items on a larger platform.

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ZK830 Alternatives (there really aren’t)

• Possibly the Pennsylvania 7800 counting scale with High Res Load Cell

• Possibly a Setra counting scale

• Possibly a laboratory balance for light weight parts counting

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Possible Cons for ZK-830

• Higher cost compared to simpler counting scales

• Can be more complex due to advanced features

• Battery is optional

SCALES AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE

https://www.1800scales.com/GSE-210675-000.html

https://www.1800scales.com/210375-00060.html

https://www.1800scales.com/210675-00060.html

https://www.1800scales.com/210675-00006.html

https://www.1800scales.com/210675-00015.html

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Rice Lake Counterpart Series Overview

Key Features

• Configurable counting indicator (available as just the indicator or a complete scale)

• Supports single or dual scale channels

• Internal resolution: 1,000,000 counts

• Display resolution: up to 100,000 divisions

• 150 item memory for parts counting

• LCD graphic display (240 × 64 pixels)

• Full 24-key alphanumeric keypad

• Connectivity:

  • Dual RS-232 ports

  • Ethernet TCP/IP

  • Scanner input

  • Setpoint outputs

• Supports up to 8 load cells (350 ohm)

• Optional battery with 24–32 hour runtime

Typical system capacities (with bases):

• 1 lb to 100 lb+ depending on configuration

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Counterpart Benefits

1. Highly Configurable System
The Counterpart shines in applications where flexibility is key—you can pair it with different bases, scanners, printers, and software.

2. Strong Data & Integration Capabilities
With Ethernet, label printing, and software like WeighVault, it’s well-suited for inventory management.

3. Larger PLU Memory
150 item memory is significantly higher than the ZK830, making it better for operations with many SKUs.

4. Dual Channel Capability
Certain models allow for two scale inputs—useful for sampling and bulk counting setups.

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Counterpart Alternatives

• Pennsylvania 7800 counting scale

• Avery Weigh-Tronix ZK830  

• Ohaus Ranger Count 4000

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Possible Cons for Counterpart

• Lower internal resolution compared to ZK830

• Less optimized for ultra-light parts counting

• Battery is Optional

SCALES AVAILABLE TO PURCHASE

https://www.1800scales.com/7601129009.html

https://www.1800scales.com/VC-210.html

https://www.1800scales.com/VC-202.html

https://www.1800scales.com/VC-201.html

To summarize:

 

• ZK830 = High-performance and precision counting system

• Counterpart = Flexible, configurable indicator w/ or w/o platform

If you prioritize supreme accuracy, the ZK830 stands out.
If you need customization and system integration, the Counterpart is a strong choice.

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ZK-830 vs. Counterpart

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FAQ

1. Which scale is better for very small parts counting?

The ZK830 is the clear winner due to its extremely high internal resolution and ability to measure parts down to milligram levels.

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2. Can both systems use two scale bases?

Yes, both can be ordered with a standard counting scale and a remote scale. For example a 50 lb counting scale connected to a 5000 lb floor scale.

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3. Which scale system is easier to set up and use?

Both of these scales are relatively easy to setup for basic use. Either system can be more complicated the more you try to customize with things like label printers and custom print formats etc…. 

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4. Are these good brands of counting scales?

Yes, both Avery Weigh-Tronix and Rice Lake Weighing Systems are highly respected scale brands and counting scale manufacturers. 

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5. Which scale would you purchase?

If I needed super precision counts for things like rubber o-rings or resistors, I would look at the Avery Weigh-Tronix ZK-830 counting scale. If I’m counting items like bolts, screws, washers, etc… I would definitely look at the Rice Lake Counterpart line of counting scales. Either scale can be setup to print labels. We offer both systems for sale.