Machinists need to adapt a wide variety of equipment in order to be up to par in the fast-changing manufacturing industry. Herein, one of the most staple tools they need is the best digital calipers.
As a matter of fact, getting the digital calipers for machinists is crucial to fulfilling the job requirements. It has many functions that will help with coming up with not just an accurate measurement, but a consistent one as well.
However, you don’t just need to know what a caliper is. You should also know what are the crucial components to take into consideration to buy the best digital calipers.
Among these components are the build quality, accuracy, read-out, and other features that contribute to an accurate measurement of the object.
Best Digital Calipers for Machinist Comparison
Last update on 2024-04-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Top 10 Best Digital Calipers for Machinist Review in 2022
Digital calipers are instruments used to measure up to close increments of 0.0005 inches or 0.01 millimeters.
This is why it should be made of quality components and should have critical features that can help any machinist accomplish the job well.
1. Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Neiko.
- Color: Silver/Black.
- Size: 6 inches.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Measurement System: Inch, fractions, millimeter.
- Dimensions: 6 x 1 x 1 inches, 12 ounces.
- Batteries: Included 1 LR44 battery.
First on this list is one of the best digital calipers which is a high-quality stainless steel caliper that delivers accurate measurements and easy usage thanks to the sturdy build.
As it is built with high-grade stainless steel, it will glide smoothly and will provide consistent measurement every time.
It has three measuring modes for measuring in inches, millimeters, and fractions. Use the dedicated button located conveniently at the front of the device to change the read-out.
You can measure from 0 to 6 inches with a 0.0005-inch or 0.01-mm resolution, allowing you to have a good measurement all-around.
Different features will allow you to use this for many applications. The large jaws are used to measure the outside diameter of the object, the smaller ones will measure the insides, the depth gauge will measure the depth, and lastly, the step gauge will probe the step of the item you’re measuring.
There is no problem reading out the measurement as it comes equipped with a large and clear LCD screen. It is conveniently powered by a common LR44 battery and comes with a carrying case for security.
Highlighted Features:
- Measures internal and external distances up to 6 inches in a highly accurate, standard and metric digital caliper
- Resolution is 0.01mm/0.0005 inch; accuracy is 0.02mm/0.0001 inch.
- The LCD unit displays measurements both in millimeters and in inches, which is very easy to understand.
- The shaft is made of stainless steel and is equipped with a depth-measurement probe.
- The product comes with a 1-year warranty.
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CONS
Related Guide: BEST ANGLE GAUGE
2. VINCA DCLA-0605 Quality Electronic Digital Vernier Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Clockwise Tools Inc.
- Material: Stainless Steel
- Color: Red, Black
- Size: 6 inches.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Measurement System: Inch, Metric, Fraction
- Dimensions: 9.25 x 1.5 x 0.5 inches, 5.3 ounces.
- Batteries: Included 2 LR44 batteries.
If you’re in the market looking for an inexpensive Vernier caliper, this one will fit the bill. Despite the price, it is still made from stainless steel. This gives it a sturdy build that is strong enough to meet your daily measuring requirements.
Aside from the strong build, it has a proprietary cable that allows it to connect to a computer to transfer data.
This one has a maximum measurement of 6 inches or 150 millimeters and has a resolution of 0.0005″ or 0.01 mm and an accuracy of ±0.001″ or 0.03 mm. That can give you plenty of confidence in the precision of the measurement you’re taking.
There are four ways you can use this caliper. Using the jaws, the large one will measure the outside of the object, and the smaller one will determine the diameter of the inside. You also get a step and depth gauge, which can measure the step and depth, respectively.
The large LCD will show the measurements in inches, millimeters, or fractions, depending on your preference.
Highlighted Features:
- The digital caliper is made of stainless steel with inch/metric/fraction conversion, and the price is lower than comparable stainless steel calipers.
- The measurement range is 0-6 inches/150mm, the accuracy is 0.001″/0.03mm, and the resolution is 0.0005″/0.01mm.
- 13mm x 38mm extra-large LCD display.
- Before every digital caliper is sold, it is fully calibrated.
- Connects your PC to a data transfer facility via a cable.
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CONS
3. iGaging Electronic Digital Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: iGaging.
- Material: stainless steel.
- Size: 6 inches.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Measurement System: Inches, millimeters, and fractions.
- Dimensions: 9.7 x 3.6 x 1.2 inches; 1.79 Ounces.
- Batteries: Included 2 CR2 batteries.
This IP54 rated digital caliper is a tough and one of the best digital calipers on market. The rating means it can withstand accidental splashes as well as dust. Aside from that security feature, it is also made from high-quality stainless steel and comes with a carrying case.
Being made from stainless steel, it will offer better protection and accuracy when measuring as this material is known for making precision instruments.
The measurements can be alternated between inches, millimeters, and fractions. These are displayed clearly on the large LCD screen.
For saving power, it has an auto-shutoff feature that will turn off the tool automatically after some time of idleness.
It can measure from 0 to 6″ and has an accuracy of up to 0.01″. The large jaws measure the outside diameter while the smaller ones are designed to measure the inside diameter of the object.
You can also measure the depth and step of the object by using the depth gauge and step gauge, respectively.
Overall, the build quality is solid, and you can expect this to perform just as well as the more expensive tools in its category.
Highlighted Features:
- Precision lapping finishing on a hardened stainless steel body.
- Large 2-3/8″x7/8″ LCD display improves readability.
- Resistant to splashes of water, oil, and dust.
- Measurement range is 0-6 inches, the accuracy is 0.001 inch and the resolution is 0.0005 inch.
PROS
CONS
Related Guide: CHAMFER GAUGE REVIEWS
4. Mitutoyo Advanced Onsite Sensor (AOS) Absolute Scale Digital Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Mitutoyo.
- Material: stainless steel.
- Size: 6 inches.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Special Feature: Waterproof.
- Dimensions: 3.94 x 1.18 x 8.66 inches, 6 Ounces.
- Batteries: Included 2 CR2 batteries.
Mitutoyo is a well-known brand for precision measurement, and this one of the best digital calipers is just one of the most widely sought-after ones.
This features a large LCD display that shows the measurement in inches or millimeters. It is fully covered in stainless steel, so it will provide precision for every measurement. That stainless steel body also ensures that it won’t get damaged if you drop it on a surface.
It features an advanced onsite sensor (AOS) with electromagnetic inductivity, which means it can measure the object even with the presence of a little water, dirt, and oil.
The measuring range is up to 6″ or 150mm and can measure in 0.0005″ (0.01mm) increments for precision. This also has a zero mode, which helps reset the measurement, thus, helpful for some applications.
It measures the outside, inside, depth, and step. For added accuracy when measuring, it comes with a thumb roller.
Powered by an SR44 silver oxide battery, this will last a long time with proper use and care.
Highlighted Features:
- The measuring scale ranges from 0 to 6″/0 to 150mm in 0.0005″/0.01mm accuracy.
- For versatility when measuring, LCD displays both inch and metric units.
- Sensors for resistance to dirt, oil, and water are called advanced onsite sensors.
- Measures inside, outside, depth, and step values for versatility.
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CONS
5. EAGems Digital Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: EAGems.
- Material: Hardened Stainless Steel.
- Size: 6 inches.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Dimensions: 9.25 x 3 x 0.55 inches, 7 Ounces.
- Batteries: 2 Lithium Metal batteries required.
This stainless steel caliper will provide accurate measurements and within 0.005-inch or 0.01-mm. The materials help in making the operation smooth and precise, which will give you a trouble-free experience.
Aside from the stainless steel construction, which is a better choice than carbon fiber and plastic parts, you will also get an IP54 rating – making it water and dust resistant. These features make this caliper last a long time.
You can read the measurement in the large LCD in which you have a choice of inches, millimeters, and fractions.
This can be switched any time you want with just a press of the button. In addition, you can zero the measurement at any given point for differential measuring.
It also has a built-in automatic on/off feature, which will lengthen the battery life. The CR2032 battery is conveniently located at the back and is secured by a cover with a screw.
Other features include a set screw that comes in handy when you want to lock the measurement you took and a thumb roller for increased control.
Highlighted Features:
- Gliding stainless steel calipers are smooth and trouble-free and don’t stick or become rough.
- Measurements are accurate to within .001 inch, 0.01 millimeter, the LCD screen is large and easy to read.
- A simple hand-tool for converting inches, millimeters, and fractions.
- Measures inside-outside dimensions, steps, diameters, also have a depth gauge, it can be zeroed at any point for differential measurements.
- A 2-year warranty is provided.
PROS
CONS
6. MOOCK Digital Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: M MOOCK.
- Color: Silver
- Material: Stainless Steel.
- Size: 6 inches.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Measurement System: Imperial
- Dimensions: 9.27 x 3.04 x 0.57 inches, 6.7 Ounces.
- Batteries: Included 2 Lithium Metal batteries.
You will get your money’s worth with this caliper. From the build to the accuracy of the measurements, it’s something that you will want around you while you work on your craft at your job or workshop.
The caliper is made from brushed and hardened stainless steel and is able to be used in different environments. It has an IP54 rating, which makes it splash and dust resistant.
It is accurate up to 0.0005 inch or 0.01 millimeters, which means it will provide you with a good and consistent measurement throughout. Additionally, it has a slider clamp screw that secures the jaw in place in case you need to keep the measurement and a zero function for differential measurement.
As for the display, the LCD and large digits will provide you with a clear reading of what you are measuring, which is way more convenient than a manual caliper. It takes a simple CR2032 battery, and you will get a spare one upon purchase.
With the measuring features, you can measure the inside and outside dimensions of the object as well as the depth and step. This is especially useful for machinists who need precision measurements in their projects.
Highlighted Features:
- This 6-inch caliper is made from stainless steel with dust and water splash resistance features.
- With accuracy within .0005-inch/.01-mm, this allows you to set zero.
- By pressing a button, you can convert the unit to inches, millimeters and fractions.
- Easy-to-understand LCD screen for instant readings.
- Inches/millimeters/fractions are used to measure interior and exterior dimensions, diameter and depth, and steps.
- The product comes with a 1-year warranty.
PROS
CONS
7. Adoric Electronic Digital Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Adoric.
- Color: Black
- Material: Carbon Fiber Composites.
- Measuring Range: 0-6 inches/0-150mm.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Dimensions: 11.02 x 3.54 x 0.39 inches, 2.39 ounces.
- Batteries: Included 1.5V LR44 button cell.
This caliper is made from stainless steel to provide the user with the utmost precision for measuring items. Having an accurate and consistent best digital calipers is essential to any job, especially for the machinist.
The measurement you can get from this is from 0 to 6 inches or 150 millimeters. That is plenty of measurements, especially if you are doing fine-tuning or fitting precise instruments.
You can zero the measurement at any point if you are doing the differential measuring, and you can change the value from inches to millimeters any time.
With this, you can measure the inside and outside diameter. You can also get the depth and step with the provided depth gauge and step gauge.
A bright and clear LCD screen is used as the display, and the whole unit is powered by small LR44 button batteries, which will last quite a long time if used properly and with care.
Expect the unit to be water and dust resistant with its IP54 rating. But take note that all digital measuring devices will not work properly if used in a very humid environment as moisture affects the components of these devices.
Highlighted Features:
- It’s premium material ensures that you will have years of use without scratching your valuable objects.
- Ensures exact measurements with an accuracy of ±0.2mm/0.01 inch and resolution of 0.01”/0.1mm;
- By pushing the blue button on the top, you can easily convert between inches and millimeters.
- If no movement is detected within 5 minutes, the calipers will automatically turn off.
- Provides 4 ways of measurement; external, internal, depth and step measurement.
PROS
CONS
8. MeasuGator Silverine Digital Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: MeasuGator.
- Color: Black
- Material: Hardened stainless steel.
- Measuring Range: 0-6 inches/0-150mm.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Measurement System: Imperial/SAE (inches) and metric (mm)
- Dimensions: 9.3 x 3 x 0.56 inches.
- Batteries: Included 14 LR44 batteries.
With the many options for best digital calipers, sometimes, it is hard for some brands to stand out. But the best thing to do is to provide the basic and foundational function with some user-friendly features to do so. So that’s what this one did.
You will get a no-frills and straight to the point device for accurate measurements with a resolution of 0.001 inches or 0.02 millimeters.
It has the basic function of measuring the outside and inside diameter as well as the depth and step of the object.
The caliper boasts high-speed reading, so you don’t need to worry about lags when measuring. It also has a large LCD screen so that you can easily see your measurements.
In addition to the digital caliper, you will also get a set of feeler and extra batteries in the package. It also has a set screw that comes in handy if you want to retain your previous measurement. Then for accuracy, it has a thumb roller for increased control.
Its design is classic and will not leave a bad taste. The nice contrast of the stainless steel over the other materials will make you want to use this, again and again, every day.
Highlighted Features:
- Ensures exact measurements with an accuracy of 0.001″/0.02mm and resolution of 0.0005″/0.01mm.
- Its special features are its ability to measure external and internal size, depth, step, and difference.
- You can run your device for a very long time with the 3 additional batteries.
- Using the large digit display, measurements can be taken instantly as a result of movement that is light-speed.
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9. Clockwise Tools DCLR-1205 Electronic Digital Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Clockwise Tools Inc.
- Color: Grey
- Material: Stainless steel.
- Measuring Range: 0-12 inches/0-300mm.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Measurement System: Inch, Metric, Fraction.
- Dimensions: 15.5 x 1.5 x 0.5 inches, 9.8 ounces.
- Batteries: Included 3V, CR2032 Lithium-Ion battery & one extra.
If you need the best digital calipers that can measure for more than 6 inches or 150 millimeters, then this is the one you should get. It extends up to 12 inches or 300 millimeters and performs just as well.
From afar, that will provide you with a lot of room, especially if you use differential measurement a lot.
The resolution is 0.0005″/0.01mm which will give you an accurate measurement for the inside and outside dimensions as well as depth and step.
The long profile allows for a large and bright LCD screen, which is especially useful if you want to see your measurements clearly and immediately.
You can plug the tool to a PC so that you can record your measurements in real-time. But note that it is for data recording purposes only and not charging.
But you don’t need to worry about the battery life as it has a 5-7 minute power saving mode, which will shut it off if it’s idle for that set time.
Highlighted Features:
- Its measuring range is very large between 0-12 inches/300mm.
- An extra-large 20mm X 50mm LCD display will provide impressive readability.
- Easy to transfer data to any PC by using a DTCR-02 cable.
- Digital calipers are fully calibrated before sale.
- It comes with an extra battery which ensures your long time use capacity.
PROS
CONS
10. Clockwise Tools DCLR-0805 Electronic Digital Caliper
Key Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Clockwise Tools Inc.
- Color: White, Grey, Purple.
- Material: Stainless steel.
- Measuring Range: 0-8 inches/0-200mm.
- Display Style: LCD.
- Measurement System: Inch, Metric, Fraction.
- Dimensions: 11.5 x 1.5 x 0.5 inches, 7.2 ounces.
- Batteries: Included 2 Lithium-ion batteries.
This is another caliper from the renowned precision instrument manufacturer; Clockwise Tools, which has been producing instruments for more than three decades.
The design of this caliper blends traditional and a modern take in measuring tools. But it’s not just about the looks, it also performs just as good.
Built from stainless steel, it is both durable and allows for a smooth glide and operation in any environment. It will perform well; thanks to the IP54 rating which makes it splash and dust resistant.
It has all the standard measuring features which will allow you to see the outside and inside dimensions as well as the depth and step of the object you’re measuring. You can measure up to 8”/200mm with an accuracy of ±0.001″/0.03mm.
Additionally, you can transfer the measurement directly to the computer by using a dedicated transfer cable and device.
Highlighted Features:
- It’s measurements accuracy is ±0.001″/0.03mm in 0-8 inches/200mm. inches.
- Port for data transfer to PC. You must use a DTCR-02 cable in order to connect the caliper to the PC.
- Extra large 3/4″x 2″ (20mmx 50mm) LCD display with inch, metric, fractions conversion facilities.
- The device measures both inside and outside as well as depth and step values for versatility
- It has a one-year warranty, so you can use it with confidence.
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Features to Look for Before Buying
A digital Vernier caliper is an instrument you use to measure the internal and external dimensions of an object. And a machinist will use these in many applications, including CNC, routing, and others.
Vernier calipers measure accurately to one-hundredth of a millimeter or one-thousandth of an inch, which makes it more accurate than any standard ruler.
That is to say that it works like a ruler but has more implications and has a better standard of measuring.
Electronic or digital calipers have increased in popularity these days.
This is because they are much simpler to use and measure faster, not to mention more accurately than an average ruler.
With different features like sensors, large LCD screen, zero function, measurement conversion, it is easy to see why machinists are leaning towards these more and more for their projects.
When buying a digital caliper, take into consideration the environment you will be using it in. Find out the functions and how they can help you with your job or projects.
Depth Gauge
This measures the depth you’re making and the thickness of the material you’re working on. Basically, if you have a caliper, it is usually because of the ruler-like feature on it. Most of the best digital calipers read out the measurement on the screen, so you don’t need to worry about the accuracy of the measurement.
Locking Set Screw
A locking screw helps stabilize the measuring jaws. You can use this if you want to retain the last measurement you took.
This is usually a knurled knob on top of the LCD screen and on the big jaw of the caliper. You can use it as a manual backup to the last measurement you took.
Step Gauge
A step is the measurement from the edge of a certain object. It is crucial to note this, especially when you’re connecting two components together.
With a step gauge on your caliper, it will be easy for you to measure out different aspects without using different tools.
Outside Jaws
You use these to measure the inside of the item or object. When buying one, be sure that there are no flaws in the jaws. This is to make sure that your measurements are as accurate as possible.
Thumb Roller
This is a simple knurled knob that gives you more control over the caliper. Usually, this is located on the lower part of the LCD screen. The basic function of this is to provide the user with a better grip when using the best digital calipers (learn how digital calipers work here).
Inside Jaws
You have to be sure that you’re getting a nice and flush build on these. You should expect the inside jaws to have clean and precise construction, which will provide the most accurate measurement possible.
See to it that they do not have any dents or glinting, as these will compromise your measurements.
Zero Function
Machinists need to do a lot of measurements, and sometimes you need to reset the measurement to zero in order to get a better one. This is called a differential measurement.
Without a zero function on your caliper, you will need to list the previous measurement and then hope that you can get the next one more precisely.
While you can do this with a set screw, a zero function is more practical and has less room for mistakes.
LCD Screen Display
Everybody loves a bright display. It is a good way of determining if the overall construction and build of the caliper are as good.
The LCD should have a high definition display, which means the numbers should have deep coloring and should be visible in any light condition.
What the LCD displays should also be taken into account. It should display the standard measurements (inches and millimeters), and it would also be a great addition if there is a fraction display option.
Power Saving Mode
A digital device will need batteries to run it. It is both practical and convenient because you don’t have any wires or cables restricting your movement.
You just need to make sure that your caliper will have a power-saving mode. As simple as it seems, it can save a lot of battery power. This is simply a feature that shuts off the device after a set time of not using it.
Rigid Construction
Your devices should also last a long time. After all, what’s the use of having accurate measurements if you can’t use them for a long time?
Well-built calipers are made from stainless steel. Aside from being the ideal material for precision instruments, stainless steel can also provide a tough exterior or overall build to devices.
This material is generally resistant to rust and can withstand most accidental blows or impacts.
IP Rating
Having an IP rating means it meets an international standard for devices that determines how well they fare against certain external factors.
Most calipers will have an IP54 rating, which means they can withstand or resist most accidental spillage and protection from dust particles.
This is crucial for precision instruments since these tend to have sensitive components that need such protection.
It is also a reflection of the manufacturer’s commitment to quality because they constructed the device to meet certain standards.
User-Friendly Features
A caliper is a simple and basic tool that does a crucial job. So, look for one with all the details and important things you need.
Always look for the basic functions first before any other fancy features because that’s what you really need.
Components of a Caliper
It doesn’t take a lot to get used to a digital caliper. After all, these are designed to provide you with the most accurate measurement with all its specs and features.
One of the things to consider so that you can use a caliper rightly is to familiarize yourself with the parts and their uses.
The most critical components of a caliper are:
Outside Jaws
In essence, this is what makes the caliper what it is. These large jaw-like protrusions are designed this way so that they can measure the outside diameter, thickness, and even length of the object.
To get the best result, make sure that the object you’re measuring is as close to the ruler as possible. This will help keep the caliper stable, and at the same time, you have a visual guide of how close the jaws are on the object you’re measuring.
Inside Jaws
These are the smaller jaws behind the outside jaws that are meant to measure the inside dimensions as well as the cavity length. They work with the same principle as the outside jaws.
Depth Gauge
As the name suggests, this measures the depth of the cavity or hole you made.
For additional functions, you will also find these features that can help with using the caliper.
Right Way to Use a Caliper
Once you’ve familiarized yourself with these, you can operate the caliper with confidence. Here’s how you can operate a digital caliper:
Care and Maintenance Tips
It’s not hard to clean up a caliper. But since it is a precision instrument, proper care and maintenance should be done to it to keep it working well and lasting a long time.
Here are some care tips for your best digital calipers;
Here are some maintenance tips for your caliper:
Frequently Asked Questions
Why use a digital Vernier caliper over a regular Vernier caliper?
For obvious reasons, a Vernier caliper has better accuracy and measurement than a regular caliper because of the high-precision components that aid in measuring.
Also, having a large LCD, zero function, and memory mode make it more convenient to use.
Why does my digital caliper not reset to zero when I clamp it down?
There may be some foreign object between the jaws. This is why it is always recommended to clean the caliper before using it.
How long will the battery last?
The battery may last for up to 6 months with daily and continuous use. If not, the battery may last up to a couple of years.
How do I use the step gauge?
The step is the distance between one edge and the next. To measure it, position the object on the top side of the caliper and put it against the smaller jaw. Then push the bigger jaw to see the measurement.
How do you calibrate the digital caliper?
You should press the zero button when the outside jaws are closed so that you can calibrate it to zero.
Final Words
The best digital calipers for machinists depend on your budget, what you need to measure, and what environment you plan to use the calipers in.
There is most certainly a style and budget for everyone.
With the many options available, we hope you will find one that will suit your needs the most.
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