What is the difference between Brix and specific gravity?

Brix measures the percentage of dissolved sugars by weight, while specific gravity measures the density of the liquid relative to water. Both indicate sugar content but use different scales. A 12 Brix reading equals roughly 1.048 SG.

Can I use a refractometer during fermentation?

Yes, but the alcohol produced during fermentation throws off the reading. You need to apply a correction factor — use our Refractometer Correction Calculator for readings taken after pitching yeast.

Is Brix the same as Plato?

They are very similar but not identical. Brix was developed for the sugar industry (pure sucrose solutions) while Plato was developed specifically for brewing (wort). For practical homebrewing purposes, the difference is negligible for pre-fermentation readings.

How do I calibrate my refractometer?

Place a few drops of distilled or deionised water on the prism at room temperature. Close the cover and look through the eyepiece. Adjust the calibration screw until the line reads exactly 0.0 Brix. Recalibrate before each brew day.

What Brix range is typical for brewing?

Most beer worts fall between 8-20 Brix (approximately 1.032-1.083 SG). Session beers start around 8-10 Brix, standard ales 11-15 Brix, and strong ales or barleywines can reach 18-25+ Brix.

BrewCalcs

Brix to SG Converter — Refractometer Conversion

Convert Brix refractometer readings to specific gravity for your homebrew.

Brix Reading

Reading from your refractometer

How We Calculate This

The Conversion Formula

The standard Brix to SG conversion uses: SG = 1 + (Brix / (258.6 - ((Brix / 258.2) x 227.1))). This polynomial formula provides accurate conversion across the normal brewing range (0-30 Brix).

When to Use This

Use this converter when taking pre-fermentation readings with a refractometer. Refractometers read in Brix, while most brewing software and recipes use specific gravity. Always calibrate your refractometer with distilled water before use.

Frequently Asked Questions

Related Calculators

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Original Gravity Calculator

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Final Gravity Calculator

Estimate final gravity based on OG and yeast attenuation.

Plato to SG Converter

Convert degrees Plato to specific gravity and back.

Attenuation Calculator

Calculate apparent and real attenuation of your fermentation.

Last updated: 2025-02-20

All calculations are estimates. Always verify values and adjust based on your equipment and ingredients.