This is a support article covering the differences between Acaia's Original Lunar scale and the new Lunar 2021 model.
The Original Lunar and Lunar 2021 are both excellent standalone scales. The two may look almost identical when switched off, but each possesses many unique features.
First and foremost, both scales are as accurate and fast as one another. The Lunar 2021 is a reimagined version of our original Lunar scale (first released in 2015) with improvements based on suggestions from Acaia's team and the community.
Real-Time Flow Rate Indicator
The new Flow-Rate Indicator allows you to monitor the flow rate of your shot in real-time. This lets you spot the subtle changes in the extraction, understand your shot better, and make adjustments for a perfect espresso.
Similar to the Pearl 2021, the Flow-Rate Indicator is an LED bar on the top of the display. It helps you visualize your espresso flow rate in real-time and spot channelling during brewing. The indicator measures the flow rate with lit LEDs starting from 0.1 g per second on the left to 3.4 g per second on the right. During an espresso brew, the Flow-Rate Indicator will display the highest peak flow rate of this brew with a single bright LED.
The Flow-Rate Indicator can be activated in Dual Display Mode, Timer Starts with Flow Mode, Auto-Tare Timer Starts with Flow Mode, Auto-Tare Auto-Start Timer Mode, and Auto-Tare Mode. This is now found on the new Lunar 2021.
Tare Save
With the new Lunar 2021, if you have a frequently used container in your weighing workflow, you can save the weight of the container using the Tare Save function. This will allow you to weigh the container with contents, then trigger Tare Save to deduct the container weight and obtain the net weight.
Built-in espresso modes will automatically start and stop a timer or tare to speed up your preferred workflow. The new Tare Save function allows you to store the tare weight of your preferred dosing container or cup.
Highest Readability Upto 0.01g
The Lunar 2021 offers a high readability option of 0.01 g, which gives you an extra digit of reference for the most accurate espresso weight.
LED Display
Both the Lunar and Lunar 2021 have 8 digit LED displays. However, the Lunar 2021 has several new indicators, including the option of a real-time flow-rate ‘line’ at the top of the display. See below for more information.
Brightness Setting
The user has the ability to adjust the brightness of the display on the Lunar 2021 through the settings menu.
Charging / Low Battery Indicator
This indicator turns on when the battery is charging and turns off once the battery is fully charged. The indicator starts flashing when the battery power is low as a reminder to charge the scale.
Bluetooth Connection Indicator
This indicator turns on when the scale is connected to Acaia Apps.
Weight Stable Indicator
This indicator turns on when the weight is stable.
Weighing in Ounces / Data Transmitting Indicator
This indicator turns on when the weighing unit is in ounces. The indicator also lights up during software updates to indicate data transfer.
Button Pressed Indicator
This indicator turns on when a button is pressed
USB Type-C Recharging
The Lunar 2021 offers a greener alternative power source, the lithium-ion battery can last up to 30-40 hours. In addition, Acaia have upgraded the charging port to USB Type-C with PD Support, which contributes to longer battery life and protection.
* Note: The Lunar 2021 is equipped with charging protection to prevent the battery from charging under high temperatures. It is normal if the scale does not charge when the surface is hot from brewing coffee. The battery charging function will be enabled once the scale has cooled.