10 Best Digital Calipers of 2023 – Reviews & Buying Guide
- Pete Ortiz
- Last updated:
Although digital calipers are relatively modern inventions, the very first caliper was invented in 1631 by Pierre Vernier. Since the 17th century, the caliper has been renovated so that it includes digital features, making it highly functional and user-friendly. Unfortunately, the process of picking out the best digital caliper can be difficult because there are so many options on the market today.
To make the process easier, we have come up with this comprehensive guide of the 10 best digital calipers. In this article, we offer reviews of the best digital calipers and conclude with a convenient buyer’s guide. Let’s go!
A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2023
Rating | Image | Product | Details | |
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Best Overall
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Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper |
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CHECK PRICE | |
Best Value
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Adoric Digital Caliper |
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CHECK PRICE | |
Premium Choice
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Starrett EC799A-6 Electronic Caliper |
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CHECK PRICE | |
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VINCA DCLA-0605 Digital Vernier Caliper |
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CHECK PRICE | |
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Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper |
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CHECK PRICE |
The 10 Best Digital Calipers
1. Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper – Best Overall
One of the best digital calipers on the market is the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper, which is why we have selected it as our best overall pick. It offers professional-grade measurements that are precise and versatile. Notably, the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 measures 0 to 6 inches in 0.01-millimeter increments. These small increments allow the caliper to be highly precise. It also features an advanced onsite sensor that provides resistance to dirt, oil, and water.
More so, the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 is highly versatile. The digital readout LCD allows the user to select between imperial or metric units, making it more versatile for the user. It also measures the inside, outside, depth, and step values for further versatility. When you buy this model, you will also get a protective case and an SR44 silver oxide battery. Beware, it is a little bit pricey. But we think it’s worth it for an overall high-quality product so we are ranking it as the best digital calipers we have reviewed this year.
- Precise increments
- Features an advanced onsite sensor
- Versatile measurement options
- Measures many values for versatility
- Expensive
2. Adoric Digital Caliper – Best Value
If you are looking for the best digital calipers for the money, you will be interested in the Adoric Digital Caliper. This model offers precise measurements with four measuring modes, all while being one of the most affordable options on this list, which is why we have selected it as our best value pick.
The Adoric Digital Caliper offers precise measurements that range from 0 to 6 inches with ±0.01-inch accuracy. It even comes with four measuring modes that allow it to measure the inside, outside, depth, and step with two sets of jaws and a probe. These features allow it to be very precise.
Additionally, the Adoric Digital Caliper is easy to use. It comes with a 0 setting function that allows you to set 0 with the touch of a button. It also comes with a large LCD screen and an auto-off function.
The main reason why the Adoric Digital Caliper is ranked number two on our list, as opposed to number one, is that the automatic off function can be annoying at times, and it is made from plastic, which is not very durable.
- Precise
- Good accuracy rating
- Includes a 0 setting function
- Easy to use
- Affordable
- Automatic off function can turn off caliper during use
- Made from plastic
3. Starrett Electronic Caliper – Premium Choice
If you are looking for the most expensive or luxurious digital caliper, you will be interested in the Starrett EC799A-6 Electronic Caliper. This model comes with a number of professional features that make it fast measuring, versatile, and durable.
Notably, the Starrett EC799A-6 measures from 0 to 6 inches with a 0.01-millimeter conversion reading. It provides measurements for the outside, inside, and depth, making it suitable for metalworking, woodworking, automotive, and machine applications.
More so, this Starrett model is lightweight and designed with an ergonomic design, making it comfortable and easy to use. At the same time, the LCD digital readout is large, easy to read, and high resolution. Finally, the purchase of the Starrett EC799A-6 also comes with a case made of durable hardened stainless steel, as well as a plastic storage and travel case.
- Precise increments
- Versatile use
- Lightweight
- Includes cases for storage
- Expensive
4. VINCA DCLA-0605 Digital Vernier Caliper
Another great option to check out is the VINCA DCLA-0605 Digital Vernier Caliper. This option is made with high quality, precise, and durable materials, which ensures an accurate reading and measurement.
The VINCA DCLA-0605 ranges from 0 to 6 inches with an accuracy of ±0.001 inches. The measurement can be set in inch, metric, or fraction. Each caliper has already been fully calibrated before sale, although no calibration certificate is included with the model.
Additionally, this VUNCA product is made from high-quality stainless steel, allowing this tool to be highly durable. This makes the tool suitable for both home DIY and professional uses and ensures that it should last for several years. However, it does not connect to a regular USB cable.
- Durable
- Three conversion options
- Highly accurate
- Does not connect to a regular USB cable
5. Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper
The Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper is another great model to check out. This model is highly durable, offers multiple measuring modes, is versatile, and is highly precise and accurate.
Notably, the Neiko 01407A offers a measurement range of 0 to 6 inches with an accuracy of ±0.001 inches. It comes with three measuring modes: inch, fraction, and millimeter, ensuring that you get measurements based on your needs.
More so, the Neiko 01407A is versatile and easy to read. It measures inside, outside, depth, and steps with two sets of jaws and a probe. It also comes with an extra-large LCD screen, which makes reading easy and clear. The kit also comes with an extra replacement battery in addition to the battery already included. In full disclosure, we found it to be a little bulky as well as prone to false readings.
- 3 conversion options
- Easy to read
- Versatile
- Affordable
- Bulky
- Prone to false readings
6. Clockwise Tools Electronic Digital Caliper
The Clockwise Tools DCLR-0605 Electronic Digital Caliper is a high-quality model recommended for both home DIY and professional use alike. It is durable, precise, and comes with helpful features for data transfer.
Most importantly, the Clockwise Tools DCLR-0605 has a measurement range of 0 to 6 inches with an accuracy of ±0.001 inches. You can even change the measurement readings into three different modes: inch, metric, and fractions. This ensures that the reading you get with this model is highly accurate.
Additionally, this Clockwise Tools caliper is high-quality and includes helpful design features. It is made from fine polished stainless steel and even comes with a depthometer’s groove, which allows it to be better looking, smooth sliding, and accurate. But it wasn’t without its downsides. It suffers from a short battery life, and its automatic power-off feature can kick into gear during use, causing some annoyance. Lastly, it does not work with a regular USB cable.
- Precise reading
- 3 measurement modes
- High-quality materials and features
- Affordable
- Automatic power-off can be annoying during use
- Short battery life
- Does not work with a regular USB cable
7. EAGems IP54 Digital Caliper
Another good digital caliper to check out is the EAGems IP54 Digital Caliper. This model is highly accurate with good quality materials, and the manufacturer offers superior customer service.
The EAGems IP54 has a range of 0 to 6 inches with an accuracy of ±0.0005 inches, making it one of the most accurate options on the market. It easily converts between inches, millimeters, and fractions, allowing you to convert with only one hand use.
Additionally, this option comes with a large easy to read LCD screen, making it perfect for those with strained eyesight. This model comes with a 2-year warranty and hassle-free refund or replacement, making it easy in the case that your model should have deficiencies. This could come in handy as there have been user reports of its lack of durability. There were also complaints of a short battery life.
- Competitive precision
- Three measurement modes
- Comes with a 2-year warranty
- Not durable
- Short battery life
8. Segomo Tools Electronic Digital Calipers
The next digital caliper on our list is the Segomo Tools Electronic Digital Calipers. This model has a measurement range of 0 to 6 inches with an accuracy rating of ±0.001 inches. It also features three measuring modes with one button quick exchange, which will allow you to quickly change between inches, fractions, and millimeters.
Additionally, this Segomo Tools product is made from polished stainless steel, making it highly durable. At the same time, it is easy to use because of the thumb roller and locking screw.
With that being said, the Segomo Tools Electronic Digital Calipers comes with some downsides as well. Notably, the battery dies quickly, and some users have reported that the display won’t turn-off, which is not helpful for the short-lived battery.
- Precise
- 3 measurement modes with easy change
- Battery dies quickly
- Display won’t turn off
- Prone to display errors
9. RCBS 87323 Electronic Digital Caliper
The RCBS 87323 Electronic Digital Caliper is another caliper you may want to consider. This option has a measuring range of 0 to 6 inches, although the accuracy rating is not listed. It can measure internal, external, depth, and step dimensions.
Unfortunately, there are more cons than pros for this product. Notably, it has difficulty holding 0 and shifts between inches and millimeters on its own. More so, it does not have an automatic turn off feature, making it easy to kill the battery on accident. This is especially dangerous since this battery is already prone to dying quickly.
- 4 measuring abilities
- Has difficulty holding 0
- Switches between conversions
- Does not have an automatic off function
- Short battery life
10. OEMTOOLS 25363 Digital Caliper
Finally, the last product on our list is the OEMTOOLS 25363 Digital Caliper. This caliper has a range of 0 to 6 inches, but the accuracy rating is not listed. It can measure outside, inside, depth, and step measurements. It features a large LCD display for ease of use.
Unfortunately, there are very many disadvantages to this product as well. Notably, this product, although the range is listed to a max of 6 inches, does not read accurately at 6 inches. Additionally, the battery dies quickly, and the battery does not fit into its compartment well. More so, it is very easy to accidentally turn on this product, which is dangerous since it already has a short battery life.
- 4 measuring abilities
- Inaccurate readings
- Short battery life
- Easy to accidentally turn on
Buyer’s Guide – How to Select the Best Digital Calipers
We hope that these ten products have made the selection process easier. If you are still unsure which digital caliper to get, though, we are here to help. We have created this convenient buyer’s guide to help you select the best product for you.
In this guide, we look at the top five factors to consider when purchasing a digital caliper. These aspects will help you to determine which model is best based on your preferences and needs.
Factors To Consider When Buying A Digital Caliper
1. Accuracy
The most important factor to consider when buying a digital caliper is accuracy. Since this device is used to measure, you want to make sure that the product is accurate before buying it. If you get a model that is not accurate, then you will not get the results you need, which can disrupt your projects and tasks.
The easiest way to determine the accuracy of a product is by looking at the accuracy rating. The accuracy rating will tell you exactly how accurate the product is at a certain point. An accuracy rating will look something like the following: ±0.001 inches. The more accurate the model, the smaller this number will be. If a product does not list its accuracy rating, then you might want to assume that it is not accurate.
2. Measurement Range
The second factor to consider when selecting a digital caliper is the measurement range. The measurement range will tell you this scale of the caliper. The reason that you need to consider the measurement range is that you do not want to purchase a caliper with a range that is shorter than the job you are trying to measure.
All of the calipers on this list have a range of 0 to 6 inches, which is a common range for calipers. If you are completing a job that is 8 inches, however, these calipers will be too short for your intended needs.
3. Durability
The next factor to consider when buying a digital caliper is durability. The durability will ensure that your tool lasts through many years and uses. First and foremost, your caliper should be made of metal. This ensures that it can withstand falls.
Like all metal tools, however, metal calipers are subjected to environmental issues such as rust. Make sure to clean your caliper frequently to prevent it from rusting. More so, water damage can affect the digital display of the caliper rating. Look for calipers with an Ingress Protection (IP) rating and a good overall build to ensure that water does not damage the instrument.
4. Battery Life
As you probably realized from our product reviews, the battery life of a digital caliper is highly important. As a result, you must consider the battery life of your digital caliper before buying it. Digital calipers are helpful because of their digital screen, but these screens require batteries. If the batteries die, the caliper will basically be useless.
Be sure to look for models with long battery life to ensure that you get a product that will last many years. Additionally, look for products with automatic turn off functions. Although these functions might be slightly irritating if they turn off while you’re using the caliper, they will save the battery life.
5. Unit Conversion
Finally, the last factor to consider when selecting a digital caliper is unit conversion capabilities. Unit conversion will allow the digital caliper to alternate between inches, millimeters, and fractions. These features will allow the caliper to be more useful in a variety of situations and jobs.
Luckily, most models today have all three unit conversion measurements. So, if you stumble upon a product without these conversion capabilities, we recommend opting for a different model with the unit conversions instead.
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Conclusion
Overall, we recommend the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper, which is our best overall pick. This product is highly accurate and precise and offers multiple measurement options, making it quite versatile and useful.
If our best overall pick is outside of your budget, then we recommend the Adoric Digital Calipers. This model is also highly accurate and precise, and it comes with a high accuracy rating, but it is much more budget-friendly than other options on this list.
After considering our reviews of the top 10 digital calipers, as well as the buyer’s guide, we hope that we have made the process of selecting the best digital caliper easier. Just remember to consider the five factors listed above, and you are sure to find a model that works for you.
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