A lever scale is a type of weighing instrument that uses a lever to measure weight. Depending on the context and location, a lever scale might be referred to with different synonyms. Some common synonyms include balance scale, beam scale, equal-arm balance, counter scale, and dial scale. A balance scale operates on the principle of equal weights on both sides of the beam. The pan balance and toggle balance are the two types of balance scales. A beam scale is another type of lever scale that features a beam on which the weight is placed, and a weight marker that indicates the weight on a scale below the beam. A counter scale is a lever scale that is commonly found in a department store, and typically features a flat platform that displays the weight of whatever product is placed on it. The dial scale is a lever scale that indicates the weight on a round dial that rotates according to the weight applied to the scale.