For professionals as well as regular homeowners, it is imperative to have a device that can take precise measurements common because even one inaccurate measurement can result in hampering the progress of the entire project. This is why more and more people are now investing in digital calipers, a device that comes in very handy for making small measurements extremely precisely for woodworkers and machinists. Following is a list of the digital calipers in the market right now, followed by a buying guide that will help you pick the right product for you.
Table of Contents
Digital Calipers
1. VINCA DCLA 0605 Digital Vernier Caliper : Product Overall
This extremely high-quality digital caliper by VINCA DCLA 0605 has been manufactured using stainless steel. This allows the user to slide the digital caliper around and measure anything without having to exert any excessive force. You also don’t need any extra calibration with this device because it comes with a built-in data transfer port. VINCA DCLA 0605 is what makes it the digital caliper for professionals as well as newbies.
Built it also comes with a target measuring range and the digital display is quite easily visible, you can also use this digital caliper for taking measurements of objects in even the most awkward positions. You also don’t need to fiddle with any external settings in order to make this work, because it comes pre calibrated and ready to use right out of the box. You also get extra batteries with this device, and it gives you granular and precise measurements.
Since it’s a vernier digital caliper, reading the measurement is very easy. All in all, although the calibrate looks very basic in its concept, it is well suited for a wide range of situations. VINCA DCLA 0605 does not have any excessive bells and whistles that would slow you down while you are working. VINCA DCLA 0605 is one of the digital calipers under $50 due its build quality and precision.
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2. Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper : Premium Pick
The digital caliper by Mitutoyo has cutting edge features combined with a bargain price, which makes it one of the calipers in this category. It comes with advanced on site sensor technology, which allows it to use electromagnetic inductivity for enhancing resistance to water, dirt, oil. In the long term, it increases the life of the device by a great deal. Moreover, it also has a very decent 0 to 150 mm measurement range.
At this price, you really cannot ask for more. Furthermore, it allows increments of 0.01 mm to ensure that all your measurements are precise. It also comes with an easy to read large LCD screen which gives you measurement readings in 2 units, that is, mm and inches. Another great feature of this product is that it will save you from the hassle of calibrating multiple times. Having said that, there are certain drawbacks to this device.
First of all, it does not come in a shock resistant case. It also does not have an automatic on and off feature, which may lead to some loss of battery power if you forget to turn the device off.
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3. OEMTOOLS 25363 6 inch Digital Caliper : Pick Under Budget
The digital caliper by OEM tools is perfect for every beginner that needs to do some heavy-duty work. With its easy to use interface and ergonomic design, you will get used to it within few days. It comes with some of the precise readings when compared to other calipers. Like most of the products in this category, the digital caliper is made of stainless steel frame. But also features an easy to read and full LCD display where you can check the readings. you can measure up to 6 inches with this device, and the range comes with increments of 0.001 inches come on giving you precision and accuracy of the highest level. The caliber also comes in a protective case, so you don’t risk damaging it during travel. Although it is not the sturdiest case, it is good enough for basic protection. And the cherry on top of this cake is that this is one the most affordable products you will ever find.
However, the biggest drawback of this device is that the zeroing feature does not work accurately. The caliper does not always reach zero with precision. Moreover, when it is pushed to the upper limit of its measurement range, it shows inaccuracy in measurements as well.
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Other Great Picks
4. EAGems 6 inch Stainless Steel IP54 Digital Caliper
The EAGems digital caliper is a great option for those of you who want a basic caliper for a low budget. It may not be the most efficient and high-tech device, but it does offer decent performance and will last you for a very long time. The digital caliper is capable of giving you standard measurements between the range of zero to 6 inches. It also allows an increment of 0.0005 inches, which increases the accuracy of this product.
Moreover, the LCD screen of the device is quite easy to read and also offers measurements in 2 units, that is, mm and inches. It also takes precedence over the previous product because it comes with an automatic on an all feature. But the biggest USP of this device is that it has an advanced IP 54 protection, which protects it from dust and water, increasing its shelf life massively.
Having said that, perhaps the biggest drawback of this device is that it can automatically turn on without you knowing, and this can often lead to unnecessary battery drainage. Moreover, the lock which is used to keep the calipers intact is also a bit weak.
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5. iGaging IP54 Electronic Digital Caliper
With a large LCD screen and a very decent measurement range, this product by iGaging IP54 Electronic Digital Caliper is great for small as well as big jobs. It gives you decent performance at a reasonable price. It comes with a good measurement range and a full LCD screen. It also gives you an accuracy of 0.02 mm or 0.001 inches. The device comes in a variety of options and you can choose between measurement ranges up to four, 6, 8, 12, 24, and 40 inches. Just like the last product on this list, it also features IP 54 protection, which renders it resistant to dust and water drops, increasing its life. You also get a USB cable for charging it.
And there’s a two years manufacturer’s warranty in this device as well. Another impressive thing about this device is that the battery life is quite strong, and you don’t have to go through the hassle of charging again and again. It also comes with a low battery notification so that you know exactly when you have to plug it in.
However, it is not recommended to use the digital caliper when it’s on low battery, because it may lead to imprecise measurements. Having said that, perhaps the biggest drawback of this device is that when you are measuring anything more extensive than 130 mm, it does show more error than normal.
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6. Neiko 01407A 6 inch Stainless Steel Digital Clipper
The stainless steel digital caliper by Neiko 01407A is built to last long and maintain its highly precise performance throughout. The device has been designed in such a way that it is quite ergonomic and you will be able to use it for long periods of time without any fatigue.
Neiko 01407A comes with a knurled thumb roller which allows you to lock the screws, making the positioning of the caliper extremely precise and accurate. It’s also very lightweight and compact, and all these features combined together make it the ideal product for professionals as well as amateurs. Unlike the previous product on this list, you can rest assured that it can measure over 130 mm with the same accuracy as any other length. Speaking of its accuracy range, at 0.02 mm, there is nothing to complain about.
It also comes with a large LCD screen that offers measurements in inches and millimeters. but the feature of this device is probably the LR44 battery that it comes with for replacement. The only drawback of Neiko 01407A is time there’s a small gap between the jaws, which can result in internal measurements being a little imprecise.
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7. MeasuGator 6 inch Safarium Digital Clipper
The biggest USP of this MeasuGator digital caliper is that it’s a very versatile unit, and you can choose between 5 different modes with this digital caliper according to your needs. It’s also one of the easiest to use products you will ever see, and if you need to use calipers on the regular, will save a lot of time and effort with this product.
Although it is not the most good-looking device out there, it is manufactured in such a way that it’s very convenient and ergonomic. It comes with an advanced locking screw, as well as a thumb grip which is completely slip resistant. Both of these features allow you to use it for longer periods of time without any fatigue of hands.
It also comes with a bunch of additional features like the automated on and off button, sturdy case for preventing any damage, and enhanced durability which is why we recommend it as the digital calipers for machinist.
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8. REXBETI Electronic Digital Caliper
If you work in a high-pressure environment, or harsh conditions, and require a tool that will work with accuracy and precision, this digital caliper by Rexbeti is for you. It is a very efficient device, with the set off jaws that are specifically laser machined in order to increase the precision and accuracy of the tool. The tool also allows for smooth movements, making it easier for you to do your job without any hassle.
It’s also very light weight and built ergonomically, giving you a pain free experience. This is what allows professionals to use this device for extended periods of time, without any fatigue on the wrist or fingers. It also has an excellent battery life, and you get an extra battery as emergency backup, making it one of the value for money products out there. it also comes with an automatic on and off feature.
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9. RCBS Electronic Digital Caliper
The exceptional build quality of the RCBS electronic digital caliper is what makes it stand apart from its competitors. The device is made of high-quality polished stainless steel body, making it one of the most durable and long-lasting calibers on the list.
It also allows versatility of units when it comes to measurements, so you can check the numbers both in millimeters and inches. Not only that, it takes its performance level above standard calibers, by allowing you to make external, internal, depth, and step measurements with relative ease. Moreover, all the measurements are displayed on the LCD screen of the caliper, and it gives you increments of 0.02 millimeters to ensure precision and accuracy. It’s also a very affordable device, so it checks all the boxes of a professional user but the one area where this caliper may be a little bit lacking is its battery life.
It also does not come with an automated on and off feature, which may be a deal breaker for some people. RCBS is one of the digital calipers for woodworkers.
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10. Hornady Digital Caliper
With a vast range of applications, the digital caliper by Hornady is versatile enough to handle small as well as large measurements with the same accuracy. You can use this device for professional work, as well as DIY or construction work. The digital display of this tool is built into its measuring jaws.
It uses a control system that features three buttons and it can be activated with just one hand, making it ideal for long term usage. The measuring range extends to 6 inches, and it maintains the same accuracy and calibration at the lower as well as the upper extreme of its range. The design is very easy to use and very straightforward to operate, making it an effective tool for professional use. You can also measure in metric as well as imperial systems with this device.
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Buying guide To Choose the Caliper
Here are the most important things you need to keep in mind when you are buying a digital caliper:
Depth gauge
This is one of the most important features of a digital caliper common because it allows you to check the exact depth of a whole. It’s also necessary for checking the exact thickness of any kind of material. This is why you should buy a caliper that comes with a proper depth gauge.
Locking screw
The locking screws on a digital caliper make sure that the measuring jaws are properly locked. This allows you to take measurements that are accurate. There are many products in the market that have low quality or improper locking screws, so make sure you check the screw before you buy the caliper.
Inside and outside jaws
The inside and outside jaws of the digital caliper are used for measuring the internal and external dimensions of a particular object. Nowadays, you can find many products in the market that come with delicate measuring jaws that either do not measure internal and external dimensions correctly, or get damaged pretty easily. Make sure you check the sturdiness and durability of the jaws before you buy a caliper.
Length
The higher the length of the digital caliper, the more is its efficiency. For professionals, a small or standard sized caliper is not good enough. Make sure that you buy the caliper that is at least 6 inches or longer to get results.
Zero button
This is a feature that you will need when you are resetting the device at 0, then you want to start the next measurement. In some calipers, it’s also used as an on and off switch. Make sure that you get a caliper that comes with an accurate zeroing feature to get precise details.
Millimeters and inches
Some people prefer to measure dimensions in millimeters, whereas others prefer inches. This is why it’s preferable to buy a device that can support both of these modes. You can also opt for more versatile products that have more measurement mode
LCD
Because you need accurate readings – a digital caliper should have a large enough screen that will display the measurements clearly. This will save you a lot of time and effort in the long run.
Ease of use
An ideal digital caliper will have smooth movements of its measuring jaws, sensitive whales, and an interface that is easy to use. This will make it easier for you to do your job without too much time or effort.
IP 54 protection
If you are a professional, you will use your digital calipers in harsh conditions. This is why your device should be resistant to damage. The IP 54 protection will increase the durability of the device, by increasing its resistance to water, dirt, and oil.
FAQs
Are digital calipers accurate?
Not accurate to the point where you don’t have any margin of errors. Digital calipers are close to being totally accurate. They have accuracy of 0.001 in (0.02mm) and a resolution of 0.0005 in (0.01 mm).
Why is vernier caliper more accurate?
A simple reason is when you look at a measurement using a ruler then your main focus is always on the space between using millimeters but when using a vernier caliper, the space gets reduced to even more finer measurements resulting in better accuracy.
Are dial calipers more accurate than digital?
Yes, a dial caliper is more accurate when compared to a digital caliper with an added advantage that you never have to re-calibrate a dial caliper.
Conclusion
For mechanical projects, whether they are large or small, digital calipers can be very convenient. But since there are so many models and makes in the market, it can be hard to pick the digital caliper for your project. Having said that, the digital calipers by VINCA, Mitutoyo and EAGems mentioned in this list above are truly top of their line and the products in this category that you can buy. You will not regret opting for any of these products.
