The Best Digital Calipers for 2022
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Best Digital Caliper
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The versatility of this tool makes it indispensable for do-it-yourselfers, machinists, mechanics, hobbyists, and more. It provides you with the ability to quickly and accurately measure almost anything with extreme precision that will fit between the jaws. These modern digital versions offer advantages over the traditional analog devices such as multiple units, differential measurements, easy-to-read displays, and more. To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best digital calipers currently available.
UPDATED: April 25, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 calipers because they feature a large, easy to read LCD display and can measure in increments down to 0.0005" (0.01mm).
What is a digital caliper?
Digital calipers are measuring instruments commonly used for inspection in manufacturing to provide precise measurements of an object. A pair of jaws attached to a long beam with a marked scale is used to take inside, outside, and step measurements. An additional depth probe slides along the beam to take depth measurements.
Range
The range is simply the maximum length the tool is capable of measuring. The standard max range is usually 6 to 12 inches. If you need to measure a longer distance, go with a tape measure or laser measuring tool.
How it Works
One jaw is fixed to the end of the scale, while the other jaw slides along it with gearless precision to take measurements. The reading is electronically generated and displayed on a digital, high-resolution screen as a single value.
Differential Measurements
Digital calipers can take differential measurements, which are used to determine the difference in measurements between two objects, by zeroing the display at any point along the scale.
Resolution vs. Accuracy
When selecting a caliper the manufacturer will typically provide values for both the resolution and accuracy of the tool. These terms are often confused for being the same, which is not the case. The resolution is the smallest change that can be measured. The accuracy is how close the displayed value is to the actual dimension.
For example, a caliper has a resolution of 0.0005" (0.01mm) and an accuracy of 0.001" (0.02mm). This means that it will measure within 0.001 inches on either side of the real dimension. In this case, the resolution of 0.0005” is more “precise” which helps when rounding the values. However, an increased resolution would not change the accuracy.
Repeatability
Repeatability is another feature you may see mentioned in the specifications. This is simply a value for how close the measurements are to each other when the same object is measured several times.
Units
Most modern digital calipers can switch between standard and metric units with a push of a button. Some can even output readings to a computer or printer for recording measurements.
Materials
Most calipers today are primarily constructed from stainless steel, which provides a reliable rigid structure for accurate and consistent measurements. This also provides resistance against rust or corrosion, lengthening the life of the tool.
Maintenance
Calipers are generally a low-maintenance tool. However, you should store it in a dry location since it contains electronic components which could become damaged if exposed to moisture. It should be kept clean at all times since dirt or dust within the components can be problematic for accurate readings. Most models come with a case to help prevent damage or contamination when not in use.
Battery
The calipers of yesterday typically used just the markings on the slide or a physical dial to display the measurement. However, today’s modern calipers use an LCD screen which is powered by a small button cell battery similar to what is found in watches. Most models will automatically shut off after a predetermined time, extending the life of the battery. If you plan on storing the unit for an extended period of time, you should remove the battery to reduce the risk of corrosion.
Weatherproof Rating
If you want to use this tool outdoors it is important that it is water-resistant to avoid potential damage over time. The standard rating system is known as the IP Code (Ingress Protection Code) and is published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This IP Code or rating establishes the amount of protection provided against the intrusion of dust and water. This system is used to provide specific values to help clarify the rather vague terms of waterproof, weatherproof, and water-resistant.
If the particular model you are looking at does have a rating it is most likely IP54. The first number refers to solid particle protection. In this case, a “5” is the second-highest possible rating since it provides sufficient protection from the ingress of dust. The second number refers to the protection from water. In this case, an IP54 has a rating of “4” which means that it can withstand water splashing against the enclosure from any direction and have no harmful effects. In other words, it can withstand standard outdoor conditions but not be completely submerged in water.
Now, on to the individual products. I’ve compiled a list of the top models available from well-known manufacturers including Mitutoyo, Neiko, and more. Each unit has been assigned a key feature that makes it particularly noteworthy and has been broken down according to its essential functions to help you make an informed selection.
So here is my list of The Best Digital Calipers for 2022.
Enjoy!
Best Overall: Mitutoyo 500-196-30 6" AOS Digital Caliper
The Mitutoyo 500-196-30 accurately measures inside, outside, depth, and step values.
Features an advanced onsite sensor (AOS) with electromagnetic inductivity for resistance to water, dirt, and oil.
Offers a 0 to 6 inch (150mm) measuring range.
Features an accuracy down to ±0.001" (0.02mm).
Features a resolution of 0.0005" (0.01mm) for precise measurements.
Equipped with a digital LCD readout displays lengths in either inches or millimeters.
Allows for either absolute or incremental measurement readings.
Includes a protective case and SR44 silver oxide battery.
See also this product demo video showing the proper use of the Mitutoyo digital caliper:
Runner-up: Neiko 01407A 6" Stainless Steel Digital Caliper
The Neiko 01407A features a one-button quick change between three measuring modes: inches, fractions, and millimeters.
Features a polished stainless steel frame with knurled thumb roller and locking screw to ensure smooth sliding and accurate positioning.
Equipped with a measurement range from 0 to 6 inches (150mm).
Features a resolution of 0.0005 inches (0.01mm)
Offers an accuracy down to ±0.001 inches (0.02mm).
Offers the ability to measure inside, outside, depth, and step with two sets of jaws and the probe.
Features a large LCD screen for easy and clear reading.
Best For Outdoor Use: EAGems 6" Stainless Steel IP54 Digital Caliper
The EAGems caliper features an IP54 rating that provides liquid and dust resistance.
Features an easy-to-read LCD screen and is made from stainless steel.
Measures inside and outside dimensions, diameters, steps and has a depth gauge.
Offers the ability to easily convert between inches, millimeters, and fractions.
Features a resolution of 0.0005 inches (0.01mm).
Turns on automatically when the slide is moved.
Features an automatic shutoff after five minutes of inactivity.
Offers the ability to zero at any point for differential measuring.
Includes a protective bright red case to easily keep track of in storage or transport.
Best for Large Objects: iGaging 12" Digital Caliper
The iGaging caliper features a stainless steel design and a long 12” range.
Equipped with a resolution of 0.0005" (0.01mm).
Features an accuracy down to ±0.001" (0.02mm).
Offers a long range of up to 12" (300mm).
Features a protection rating of IP54 for humidity and dust resistance.
Constructed from stainless steel for resistance to corrosion and rust.
Best Budget Option: Adoric 6" Digital Caliper
The Adoric 6” caliper offers a low-cost option for measurements that don’t require extreme precision.
Features a resolution of 0.0005 inches (0.01mm)
Equipped with a measurement range from 0 to 6 inches (150mm).
Offers an accuracy down to ±0.01 inches (0.2mm).
Features an auto power-off after five minutes to preserve battery life.
Offers the ability to quickly convert between inches and millimeters.
Best for DIY: Adoric 8" Digital Caliper
The Adoric 8" caliper features a stainless steel body and jaws with an easy-to-read LCD screen.
Quickly switch between millimeters and inches with the push of a button.
Automatically shuts off after five minutes of non-use to preserve battery life.
Offers a measurement range from zero to eight inches.
Features a resolution of 0.0005” (0.01mm).
Offers a measurement accuracy down to ±0.001” (0.03mm).
Best Large Display: iGaging IP54 6" Stainless Steel Digital Caliper
The iGaging IP54 features an easy-to-read LCD display with a stainless steel body.
Equipped with a large 2-3/8" x 7/8" display that makes it quick and easy to read measurements.
Features a measurement range of 0 to 6 inches.
Offers an accuracy down to ±0.001" (0.02mm).
Features a resolution of 0.0005" (0.01mm).
Features a repeatability of 0.0005" (0.01mm).
Includes four-digit decimals in SAE mode or 1/128 inch in the fractional display.
Features IP54 resistance protection against dust splash water and oil.
Best Value: VINCA DCLA-0605 6" Stainless Steel Digital Caliper
The VINCA DCLA-0605 features a polished stainless steel groove for smooth sliding when in use.
Offers a measuring range of 0 to 6 inches (150mm).
Features a large LCD display: 1/2" x 1 1/2" (13mm x 38mm)
Offers an accuracy down to ±0.001" (0.02mm).
Features a resolution of 0.0005" (0.01mm).
Offers the ability to quickly convert between inches and millimeters.
Comes fully calibrated.
Best Large Screen and Range: Clockwise Tools DCLR-1205 12" Digital Caliper
The Clockwise Tools DCLR-1205 features a long measuring range of up to 12 inches (300mm).
Features a large LCD screen (20mm x 50mm).
Includes inch, metric, and fraction conversion.
Includes a fractional display down to 1/128".
Offers an accuracy down to ±0.0015" (0.04mm).
Features a resolution of 0.0005" (0.01mm).
Features a repeatability of 0.0005" (0.01mm).
Equipped with an auto-shutoff for increased battery life.
Offers IP54 protection to reduce dust and dirt intrusion.
Best Compact Design: MOOCK MK-DC-01 6" Stainless Steel Digital Caliper
The MOOCK MK-DC-01 features a large easy-to-read LCD screen and a full-covered stainless steel design.
Features a quick conversion between inches, millimeters, and fractions.
Offers the ability to quickly set to zero and start a new measurement at any point on the scale.
Equipped to measure internal and external dimensions, diameters, depth, and steps.
Features a machine-grooved thumb-roller that provides a fine adjustment.
Features a position lock for accurate measurements
Includes a five-minute auto-off function.
Features resolution of 0.0005 inches (0.01mm).
Equipped with an IP Grade 54 to block out dust and debris that may otherwise affect the accuracy.
Includes a sturdy protective case.
I hope this list of the best digital calipers was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
