OBJECTIVES: Scales measuring perceptions of pain can include numeric rating scales (NRS), visual analogue scales (VAS) and descriptor scales using words (adjectival).  With the increased use of electronic data capture in clinical trial settings, such scales have been migrated to numerous platforms. After conducting a brief literature review, there was found to be a lack of research on the impact that migration of such pain scales can have on the efficacy of the scales. The objective of this study was to deploy three pain scales in different formats and on different platforms, and to explore preferences and perceived differences in patients who experience daily pain. METHODS: Twelve participants diagnosed with a range of conditions resulting in pain were interviewed in a qualitative interview setting. All participants completed three pain scales in different formats: NRS (11-, 9-, and 7-points; portrait/ landscape), VAS (horizontally/ vertically; portrait/ landscape) and adjectival scale (increasing/ decreasing severity). All scales were presented in three modes of administration: paper, handheld device and tablet device. Participants were asked about perceived differences and their preferences of the different scales, formats, and modes of administration. RESULTS: The NRS and adjectival scale were preferred equally (n=5). Participants expressed an almost unanimous preference for the 11-point NRS and increasing severity adjectival scale, across all administration modes. In contrast, the VAS was the least preferred scale (n=7) due to difficulty with interpretation. Participants expressed no usability problems with the tablet or handheld devices, but the tablet was preferred overall because of the bigger screen. CONCLUSIONS: Although the sample size makes generalising these findings difficult, this exploratory study suggests that the preferred pain scales may provide higher quality data as they are easier to interpret, and therefore minimise error and patient burden. Further evidence, particularly quantitative, is required to support these preliminary findings.