Digital Caliper – an essential measurement tool for every DIY or professional.
In fields like engineering, machining, carpentry, and DIY projects, getting things right is very important, no matter how experienced you are. Among the many tools out there, digital calipers are absolute must-haves. They’re super accurate, easy to use, and versatile.
Several Factors To Check Before You Buy:
- Accuracy: The resolution of the caliper, indicating the smallest increment it can measure, is crucial for precise measurements. Seek calipers with resolutions as low as 0.01 millimeters (0.0005 inches) or better for accuracy.
- Range: The range of the caliper determines the maximum and minimum dimensions it can accurately measure. Opt for calipers with generous ranges, such as those capable of measuring up to 150 millimeters (6 inches) or more, to ensure versatility across a wide range of objects.
- Build Quality: The caliper is constructed from high-quality materials such as stainless steel or carbon fiber to withstand wear, corrosion, and deformation, thus maintaining accurate measurements over time.
By carefully considering these features, you can select a digital caliper that precisely meets your specific requirements, offering reliability and accuracy for your measurement tasks.
Best Digital Calipers Table
| Digital Caliper | Range | Accuracy | Warranty | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Adoric Digital Caliper | 0 - 150mm | ±0.2/0.01mm | - | Check On Amazon |
| Mitutoyo Digital Caliper | 0 to 150 mm | 0.01 mm | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| Vinca Digital Vernier Caliper | 0 to 300 mm | 0.04 mm | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| Igaging Digital Caliper | 0 to 150 mm | 0.02 mm | 2 years | Check On Amazon |
| Rexbeti Digital Caliper | 0 to 150 mm | 0.02 mm | - | Check On Amazon |
| M Moock Digital Caliper | 0 to 150 mm | 0.01 mm | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
| Clockwise Tools Digital Caliper | 0 to 300 mm | 0.04 mm | 1 year | Check On Amazon |
7 Best Digital Calipers Reviews
1. Adoric Digital Caliper
The Adoric digital caliper stands as a fundamental instrument suitable for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike. Boasting a measurement span of 0 – 6” or 0 – 150mm and an impressive precision of ±0.2mm/0.01”, it promises exact results for diverse household and DIY ventures. Its generously sized LCD ensures clarity in readings, while the auto-off feature preserves battery life for extended usage. Offering four measurement modes encompassing inner and outer diameter, depth, and step measurements, this caliper caters to a broad spectrum of applications.
Fashioned from high-quality plastic materials, the Caliper assures longevity without compromising accuracy. Its zero-setting function facilitates effortless calibration at any point, simplifying the transition between measurements. Swiftly toggling between inches and millimeters is achievable through the user-friendly inch/mm conversion button. Be it assessing the outer diameter of items, gauging depth, or determining lengths via its step mechanism, this caliper guarantees precise readings coupled with utmost convenience.
Best Features
- Measurement Range: 0 – 6 inches/0 – 150mm
- Accuracy: ±0.2mm/0.01”
- Resolution: 0.01”/0.1mm
- Battery: 1.5V LR44 button cell
- Material: Premium Plastic
- Dimensions: 9.45″L x 3.07″W
Pros
- Accurate and reliable measurements
- Versatile functionality with four measuring modes
- Durable construction for long-lasting use
- Easy-to-read large LCD
Cons
- Limited to electronic measurements, not suitable for rough environments
2. Mitutoyo Digital Caliper
Mitutoyo is probably the most premium brand on our list. They have an advanced digital caliper that we are presenting below.
Next, we are putting Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Advanced Onsite Sensor Absolute Scale Digital Caliper as a premium option for long term usage. It has a very high accuracy of 0.01 mm. You can measure up to 150 mm with this caliper that is pretty much standard for digital calipers. The digital screen on the front will display the result in both metric units as well as inches for versatile operation.
As you can see in the title, it has an advanced onsite sensor that provides an electromagnetic inductive sensor to avoid dirt, oil, or water for the operation. You will also get a protective case for the caliper to prevent it from any damage while traveling around. There is a 1 year warranty period given by Mitutoyo.
Best Features
- Premium option from the list
- High accuracy of 0.01 mm
- Measure up to 150 mm
- Metric units as well as inches available
- Protective case included
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- Very accurate digital caliper
- Advanced onsite sensor is a great feature
Cons
- Very expensive price tag
- Warranty period is short regarding price tag
3. Vinca Digital Vernier Caliper
Vinca is a renowned brand in the measurement instruments genre. They have a high rated digital caliper in their lineup given below.
In the 3rd position, we have a high-quality stainless steel digital caliper from Vinca. It has a great looking finish along with clearly visible digits on the scale. Talking about the range, it can provide resolution for up to 300 mm long objects with an accuracy of 0.04 mm. You will not have to calibrate the digital caliper as it is already calibrated out of the box.
It also features an RS232 data transfer port that can be used to store the results directly into your computer while operating. You also get a special VINCA DTCR-03 cable for data transfer included in the package. There is a year of manufacturer’s warranty along with this digital caliper.
Best Features
- High-quality digital caliper
- Stainless steel body
- Easy to read scale
- Pre-calibrated digital caliper
- Accuracy of 0.04 mm
- Measure up to 300 mm
- RS232 data transfer port
- VINCA DTCR-03 cable included
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- Measurement range is great
- No calibration required
Cons
- Accuracy could be better
- Not suitable for industrial applications
4. Igaging Digital Caliper
iGaging is yet another well-known producer of digital instruments. They also produce a great digital caliper that has received highly positive feedback.
In the 4th position, we are giving you the most reliable digital caliper available in the market. iGaging ABSOLUTE ORIGIN 0-6″ Digital Electronic Caliper processes a 0.02 mm accuracy that is good enough for a general-purpose caliper. You can use this caliper to measure anything varying up to 150 mm in dimension. It has an IP54 water-resistant rating that includes water droplets as well as dust resistance.
It has a pretty sturdy build quality, and it is designed while considering the DIS standard 862 norms as well as ISO certified manufacturing method. You can get a USB cable separately from the market to attach this caliper to your computer. It is backed by 2 years of warranty from iGaging, making it the most reliable option in comparison
Best Features
- Most reliable digital caliper
- High accuracy of 0.02 mm
- Measure up to 150 mm
- IP54 water-resistant rating
- High water droplet as well as dust resistance
- Great build quality
- Meets DIS standard 862 norms
- ISO certified manufacturing
- USB cable available separately
- 2-year warranty
Pros
- Warranty period is pretty good
- Great water and dust resistance available
Cons
- Accuracy could be better
- USB cable not included in the package
5. Rexbeti Digital Caliper
Rexbeti is a comparatively lesser-known brand on our list. Still, it has a great budget option available.
Here, we have a decent looking digital caliper with a pretty competitive price tag. You will get a polished stainless steel finish on the body that gives out a great look. His design is also pretty sleek and good looking. It has 0.02 mm accuracy while measuring objects up to 150 mm. It has an IP54 protection rating available that ensures water as well as dust resistance.
As it is more focused on general applications, it can be the best choice if you are looking for a home DIY tool. The LCD display is pretty big and displays quite clear results in inches, metric as well as fractions. The instrument feels a bit heavier in comparison due to its build quality. Hence you expect better control over the slider for precise results. An extra battery is included in the package for long term use.
Best Features
- Decent looking digital caliper
- Polished stainless steel finish
- Pretty sleek design attribute
- High accuracy of 0.02 mm
- Measure up to 150 mm
- Metric, inches and fraction units available
- IP54 protection rating available
- Heavier in weight
- Extra battery included
Pros
- Great build quality
- IP54 protection rating for better protection
Cons
- Warranty description is not given
- Accuracy could be higher
6. M Moock Digital Caliper
Moock is a very affordable brand that produces decent instruments. Fortunately, they have a cheap digital caliper mentioned below.
Here is the most affordable option from our list of the best digital calipers. Even though it has a cheaper price tag, it gives a decent stainless steel body that looks pretty stylish. There is an IP54 rating as well to provide reliable insurance against dust and water damage. It is a highly accurate digital caliper, providing an accuracy of 0.01 mm. There is a standard 0 to 150 mm measurement capacity available on this caliper.
The digital LCD display on the front is extra large to provide easy to read results. You can set the caliper to work with millimeter, inches, or even fraction units if you require. There is a grooved roller thumb in the lower side of the dial to help you move the jaws swiftly. It has a built-in auto-off feature that will turn off the caliper after 5 minutes of ideal time. There is still a year of warranty available on the caliper considering its minimal price tag.
Best Features
- Most affordable option from our list
- Stainless steel body
- Stylish design
- IP54 water and dust protection rating
- High accuracy of 0.01 mm
- Measure up to 150 mm
- Extra-large LCD display
- Metric, fractions and inches units available
- Grooved roller thumb
- Built-in auto-off feature
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- Auto-off feature can save a lot of battery
- Very minimal price tag
Cons
- Measurement range can be better
- Not suitable for industrial applications
7. Clockwise Tools Digital Caliper
In the end, we have a digital caliper from Clockwise Tools. You might not have heard about this name before, but rest assured, it is worth your attention.
We will finish our list with Clockwise Tools DCLR-1205 Electronic Digital Caliper. Similar to many other options, it also has an IP54 rating, which is essential if you are planning on more outdoor usage. It is a pretty versatile digital caliper, giving you 3 different units for measurement that are inches, millimeters, and fractions. You can measure up to 300 mm long objects with this caliper while maintaining an accuracy of 0.04 mm.
Talking about the look and feel, it looks pretty sophisticated due to its premium design and fine polished stainless steel body. It also has an RS232 data transfer port for data transfer. You will be getting a DTCR-02 cable included in the package so that you don’t have to purchase it separately. Every Clockwise Tools DCLR-1205 Electronic Digital Caliper is pre-calibrated out of the box. It is backed by a 1 year warranty period.
Best Features
- IP54 rating present.
- Versatile digital caliper
- 3 different units for measurement
- High accuracy of 0.04 mm
- Measure up to 300 mm
- Metric units as well as inches available
- Premium look
- Polished stainless steel body
- RS232 data transfer port
- DTCR-02 cable included in the package
- 1-year warranty
Pros
- Highly applicable digital caliper
- Measurement range is great
Cons
- Accuracy is pretty bad
- Not applicable for professional use
Key Features to Look for in Digital Calipers
When selecting a digital caliper, it’s vital to concentrate on essential aspects to ensure it fulfills your needs efficiently. These aspects ensure precision, dependability, ease of use, and longevity. Let’s explore into the critical factors to contemplate when choosing a digital caliper.
1. Measurement Range and Accuracy
Digital calipers are available in various dimensions, typically ranging from 0 to 6 inches or 0 to 150 millimeters. Before selecting one, it’s crucial to identify the specific measurements you’ll be working with. Precision is also essential. Look for calipers with high precision, often indicated by a tolerance such as ±0.01 inches or ±0.2 millimeters. This ensures accurate measurements, particularly for intricate tasks.
2. Display Type and Readability
Seek out calipers equipped with spacious and easily readable LCD screens to obtain instant and precise readings. Backlit displays prove beneficial in dimly lit environments, ensuring readings remain clear even under challenging conditions. Additionally, select calipers featuring digital numbers that are effortlessly legible, minimizing the risk of misinterpreting measurements.
3. Versatility in Measuring Modes
Look for calipers that provide several measurement options like inner diameter, outer diameter, depth, and step measurements. This flexibility allows you to perform a range of measurement tasks with a single tool, enhancing efficiency and convenience across various applications.
4. Durability and Construction Materials
It’s crucial to prioritize durability to ensure long-lasting dependability. Look for calipers crafted from robust materials such as stainless steel or durable plastic, as they can withstand regular use and resist corrosion and deterioration, thereby extending the lifespan of the caliper. Additionally, consider features such as water and shock resistance, particularly if the caliper will be utilized in challenging environments.
5. Battery Life and Auto-off Feature
Consider battery longevity when selecting calipers, particularly for prolonged usage. Prioritize models with efficient power management to extend battery lifespan, reducing replacement frequency. Auto-off function is beneficial, shutting down calipers when idle to conserve battery. Ensuring reliable performance by preventing unnecessary power depletion is essential.
How to Use a Digital Caliper?
Usually, a digital caliper is a user-friendly device, and one should know how to use them properly. You have to turn on the tool and close the jaws to ensure that it displays zero reading. In case, if it won’t show, then simply press a zero or origin button to reset this scale reading.
You can measure the scale readings in three ways.
Place an object inside the caliper jaws to know the outside dimensions of the object. While measuring inside measurements (such as machine nut or bushing carrier), close the caliper jaws and put the interior measurement tips found on the caliper’s top, inside the object, and open them far. When measuring an object’s depth like a hole, then put the caliper’s flat end onto the hole’s edge and open the jaws. The measurement thumb emanates out till the hole bottom gets hit, and this is the actual measurement.
If there is an over the movement of jaws while taking measurements, then gently tighten the thumbwheel to raise friction. With the help of a small dial on the bottom side of the caliper will let the user roll the jaws rather than just push them with hands.
Clean the caliper after use to ensure there is no dust, liquids, or other debris. Since it is a sensitive tool, improper care will make the measurements not useful. Keep it in its case, if the case won’t come with the product, you have to buy it separately.
Tips to Use Digital Caliper Effectively
The user should know how to use the device properly to get accurate and best results out of it. Here are some basic usage tips mentioned.
- Before you start taking the measurement, ensure to reset/zero-out the reading on the LCD screen display.
- After setting the display to zero, then turn the thumbwheel till both jaws (inside and outside) get in contact with the object. Make sure that outside jaws are parallel to the object sides to maintain firm contact with the object.
- The inside jaws have to be reset to the sides of the object for the inside diameter.
- Use a depth gauge for measuring the depth of any groove, object, or recession. Ensure that caliper’s bottom is set perpendicular to the measuring object and slide the thumbwheel till the tip of the gauge bottoms out in the object.
- To transfer or save the measurement, you have to tighten the locking screw after reading the measurement.
- It is a must to calibrate your calipers (using a calibration gauge or professionally) once a year to guarantee accurate measurements. If your tool won’t come with this calibration certificate, then ensure to calibrate them after buying.
- Check the wear and tear signs like burrs or scratches regularly on the scale or jaws, which might affect the accurateness of your measurements.
Digital Calipers – FAQs
Ans: Yes, digital calipers can measure depth accurately using the depth rod or probe included in their design. Simply extend the rod to reach the bottom of the object being measured and record the reading displayed on the screen.
Ans: Yes, most digital calipers come with a unit conversion feature that allows users to switch between inches and millimeters easily. This versatility caters to different measurement preferences and standards.
Ans: Yes, digital calipers can measure non-metallic objects accurately. The key is to ensure that the caliper’s jaws or probe make proper contact with the surface of the object being measured to obtain accurate readings.
Ans: Yes, digital calipers are commonly used in woodworking applications for precise measurements of lumber, joints, and other components. Their accuracy and versatility make them indispensable tools for woodworkers of all skill levels.
Ans: Some digital calipers come with a locking mechanism that allows users to secure the jaws in place once a measurement has been taken. This feature helps prevent slippage and ensures consistent measurements, especially when working with larger objects.
Conclusion
When selecting a digital caliper, prioritize essential aspects such as measurement range, accuracy, display quality, versatility, durability, battery life, and auto-off feature. Ensuring these factors meet your requirements guarantees precise readings and efficiency for work, hobbies, or learning. Utilize this guide for informed decisions and tailored recommendations.
- We recommend the M Moock Digital Caliper for those with budget constraints. It’s the most cost-effective choice among our selections. This caliper can measure objects up to 150 mm in length with precision of 0.01 mm. Additionally, the manufacturer offers a one-year warranty for this caliper.
- The Igaging Digital Caliper is a worthwhile choice, especially due to its notable two-year warranty which assures confidence in your investment. Featuring a measurement span from 0 to 150 mm and accuracy levels reaching 0.02 mm, it stands as a dependable tool for accurate measurements.
- We suggest the Vinca Digital Vernier Caliper for its exceptional value. With a broad measuring capacity of 300 mm and precision maintained within 0.04 mm, it offers reliability. Furthermore, the manufacturer provides a one-year warranty for added assurance.
