9 Best Digital Calipers to Consider Right Now

There are a number of distractions in the workplace, added to the demands of getting the job done. All these things add up to make the workplace some sort of a battlefield that has an impact on your performance.

Getting the correct reading is very important and often a few fractions determine the success or failure of an experiment or construction. While calipers have been around for a long time, easing the load on the eyes and mind, digital calipers are all the craze right now.

So, how do you choose which digital caliper is the best one? The following list hopes to solve that problem by showcasing the 9 best digital calipers to consider right now so that you can make an informed choice.

Let’s get straight to the deets, shall we?

Best Digital Caliper

Here is the list of the 9 best digital calipers that you can use to measure your projects with precision and accuracy.

1. VINCA DCLA-0605 Digital Vernier Caliper - Best for User-Friendliness

First up on the list is the VINCA DCLA-0605 Digital Vernier Caliper, which is one of the top-rated products on the market. The customer response to this product has been good overall with people mostly having good things to say about this device.

This is a simple, yet efficient product, which makes it a desirable acquisition for buyers.

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VINCA DCLA-0605 0-6 Inch/150mm Electronic Digital Vernier...

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Why Did We Like It?

The noticeable thing about the VINCA DCLA-0605 Digital Vernier Caliper is its smooth stainless-steel body which makes it a high-quality product. This allows the caliper to slide around with ease and record accurate measurements without much effort.

A major plus point of this caliper is that it is pre-calibrated and comes with a built-in data transfer port. This makes it easy to use for both new and experienced users alike, thereby scoring high marks when it comes to its user-friendliness. 

Furthermore, it has a tight measuring range, along with a digital display that is easily visible. That means users can take accurate as well as fast readings, even from awkward positions - talk about high maneuverability! This feature has the added benefit that users will not need to worry about or adjust the external settings to get the correct reading.

What Could’ve Been Better?

One of the issues of this otherwise exceptional digital caliper is with the depth rod. The depth rod, which slides at the back of the unit, is a little loose and rattles as compared to other products. This rattle also makes this caliper wobble a bit more than other products.

2. Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper - Best for Advanced Users

The Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper is one of the best products on the market and a closer look reveals that this tag is justified. Armed with some exciting features, to rival other brands, this product is certainly an attractive option for most customers. This is one of those products that not only looks good but also delivers on what it promises.

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Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Advanced Onsite Sensor (AOS) Absolute...

• Measures 0 to 6" (0 to 150mm) in 0.0005" (0.01mm) increments...
• Digital readout LCD shows inch or metric units for...

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Why Did We Like It?

Let’s get straight to the details as there is a lot to cover. The Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper is one of the most advanced digital calipers out there, thanks to a built-in Advanced Onsite Sensor. This sensor offers greater protection from dirt, liquids, and other debris which usually hamper the readings.

Adding to the better readings is an LCD screen display that not only displays the exact measurements but is also accurate for up to 0.01mm increments. Staying on the topic of measurement, this caliper has a range of one to six inches which allows it to provide accurate measurements for most small-to-medium-sized objects. 

Now coming to the looks of this product, you will see that it has a stainless-steel body just like the VINCA DCLA-0605 Digital Vernier Caliper. But the significant improvement here is the built-in Zero/ABS key which allows users to set the caliper to measure similarly sized objects.

What Could’ve Been Better?

The battery in this caliper is the one area that comes with some problems. Firstly, it tends to heat up which can affect the performance of this product. In addition, the battery does not turn itself off automatically and users need to remember this to prevent the power from draining out.

3. Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper - Best for General Use Accuracy

The Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper is one of the best-rated products on the market thanks to its no-nonsense features. What we mean by this is that the designers have not gone overboard with many features but have stuck to the basics well and focused on the most important aspects of a caliper.

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Why Did We Like It?

The most important feature of the Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper is accuracy. This product is deadly accurate and it has to be given that it provides three distinct measuring settings.

This allows users to switch between inches, millimeters, and fractions at the press of a button. This has the added benefit of allowing users to compare the measurement on different scales without the need of doing it themselves, which is a time saver.

But the fact that the Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper has all these settings does not mean that it compromises accuracy. Due to the 0.02mm/0.001-inch precision of this device users will get accurate measurements even at the granular level, which is good for repair jobs. 

Additionally, the Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper is equipped with an extra-large LCD screen and a Zero button feature that is useful for taking accurate readings of small objects even in tight spaces.

What Could’ve Been Better?

Since the focus of the Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper is so much on accuracy it takes a backseat to other areas like durability. This product is susceptible to dirt and debris which can cause damage, so it is mainly useful for general chores.

4. REXBETI Digital Caliper Measuring Tool

This device is one of the most impressive calipers available on the market. With excellent reviews from customers and good value for its price, the REXBETI Digital Caliper Measuring Tool is on the list for most buyers.

Apart from upgrading the usual functions of a caliper, the designers have also made some interesting additions to this product.

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Why Did We Like It?

The REXBETI Digital Caliper Measuring Tool is built to offer users precision and consistency. To do so, the device is able to calculate readings accurately within 0.0005 inches of the current measurement.

Not only that, but the measurement is available in both imperial and metric units. The measurements are then displayed on a digital screen which can be configured to provide both the inside as well the outside diameter of an object.

A major addition to this product is the optional ‘step’ function which allows users to use the backstep as a secondary measuring tool as well. Furthermore, the stainless-steel body of this device offers an extra protective layer thereby making it resistant to dust and water. 

Despite having a stainless-steel coating, it is lightweight and provides smooth movement. Also, this device is economical when it comes to saving energy because the battery shuts down and starts up on its own, unlike the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper.

What Could’ve Been Better?

There are a couple of issues with the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper. For one, there is a bit of zeroing backlash which can affect readings. Also, the set screw that is provided with this product appears to be wonky and there is a chance it may come to lose.

5. iGaging IP54 Electronic Digital Caliper

The iGaging IP54 Electronic Digital Caliper is all about show and the designers have gone big with what they are offering in this product. Everyone loves big and bright features that catch the eye and that is exactly what this product has. Buyers will find it hard not to be attracted to the iGaging IP54 Electronic Digital Caliper.

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iGaging IP54 Electronic Digital Caliper 0-6" Display...

• Easy read SUPER LARGE display (2-3/8"x7/8")
• IP54 - Splash water, oil and dust resistant

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Why Did We Like It?

The iGaging IP54 Electronic Digital Caliper could well be called engaging due to its extra-large display which is unmatched by any other product on the market. The large display makes reading easier thereby increasing overall user-friendliness.

Not only the display, but the durability that this product offers is also unmatched by most of its counterparts. Apart from dirt and water, this caliper is well protected from oil, dust, and other liquids or debris as well. 

Now, to use that large display this device must also provide accurate readings, which it does to 0.01mm. This accuracy comes from the fact that high-quality parts have been used in the design.

What this does is reduce the space between parts which keeps the measuring jaws stable. Thus, the measuring jaws can operate smoothly without having to move around too much. 

All of these designs ensure that it is useful for taking precision measurements at awkward angles and in tight spaces.

What Could’ve Been Better?

The weight of this device is a bit on the higher side given the large display and high durability. But a more serious problem is with the latching mechanism of the battery case, which, if it does not fit properly may cause the batteries to fall out.

6. Hornady 050080 Digital Caliper

This caliper is an all-rounder in the true sense of the term. What we mean is that there are hardly any objects or situations where the Hornady 050080 Digital Caliper does not come in handy. The designers have provided top-notch features and have ticked most of the right boxes to ensure that buyers get their money’s worth.

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Why Did We Like It?

Coming to this all-rounder on our list, the Hornady 050080 Digital Caliper has an interesting history that adds weight, not literally, to its modern-day functions. This caliper was originally designed to measure bullets and cartridges and therefore has a vast range of applications.

So, this product provides consistently accurate readings even for incredibly small objects during DIY or construction work. To further enhance ease of use, the display is built into the measuring jaws and is available with a 3-button control system that can be operated with one hand. 

However, it is not just useful for small-scale calculations but is equally effective for large-scale calculations as well. This is achieved once again through the measuring jaws which can extend up to six inches of measuring space. 

Thereby, accurate readings for all objects that can fit into the jaws are a surety with this product while maintaining the same level of calibration. This also adds to its overall versatile nature and efficiency.

What Could’ve Been Better?

This product is priced higher than other calipers which could make potential buyers think twice. In addition to this, the gear track can get warped or may even bend over after prolonged use, thus affecting the durability of this device.

7. Fowler 54-101-150-2 Cal Electronic Caliper

For sitcom fans, the name Fowler brings back memories of the beloved character on The Big Bang Theory. Just like Amy Farrah Fowler on the show, the Fowler 54-101-150-2 Cal Electronic Caliper is efficient in a number of ways. This device manages to stand out in the crowd which has resulted in its increased popularity.

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Why Did We Like It?

The Fowler 54-101-150-2 Cal Electronic Caliper is different on several counts but the first feature that grabs the attention is the shape. This product has an angular, wrench-like shape which helps to reduce unnecessary weight while also ensuring protection against rust and corrosion.

Furthermore, the Fowler 54-101-150-2 Cal Electronic Caliper is faster with greater accuracy than other calipers which makes it a time saver. In addition to being a time-saver, this device is also an energy saver, as the battery turns off automatically when not in use. 

Also, the components on this device are smooth, thereby giving it a slick look and adding to the overall accuracy. Bolstering the accuracy depends a lot on the measuring jaws, which move quickly on this device but that does not make it hard to control.

This also means that people who are trying out battery-powered calipers for the first time, do not face any problems.

What Could’ve Been Better?

The display is an issue on this device given that it is small and the contrast is poor, making it hard to note readings. Apart from this, the buttons are mushy and the designers could have included buttons with a positive tactile click that offers a better experience.

8. Starrett Electronic Digital Caliper

The Starrett Electronic Digital Caliper is built for comfort. The designers had the buyers in mind while making this product while also ensuring that this device is up to date with the other calipers on the market. This is another product that is simple, yet efficient and is sure to please potential suitors.

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Starrett Stainless Steel Electronic Slide Caliper - 0-6"...

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Why Did We Like It?

Comfort is an important aspect for buyers and so the designers of the Starrett Electronic Digital Caliper have given this product a smooth, slim, and comfortable look. However, key features of other calipers have also been maintained so that it caters to all kinds of buyers.

One of the significant advantages of this device is the ease of use and to bring this about, the settings are located on the LCD screen. This means that users can switch easily between inches and millimeters at the press of a button. 

In addition to this, it has a zero-button function that allows users to compare different measurements much faster. Furthermore, this product has a thumbwheel at the back of the screen which means that users can adjust the device easily with one hand.

The added benefit of this feature is that the device can then be used to measure objects in hard-to-reach locations and spaces.

What Could’ve Been Better?

A deterrent for some users could be the fact that the device does not read into the thousandths. This is where other calipers offer more accuracy. Also, the battery does not automatically turn off meaning that users will have to be alert and keep backup batteries.

9. MOOCK MK-DC-01 6” Stainless Steel Digital Caliper

This product is another user-friendly device that woos buyers with a range of features. The MOOCK MK-DC-01 6” Stainless Steel Digital Caliper also boasts a sleek and elegant design that makes for a worthwhile acquisition. So, it is no surprise that this caliper is high on the list of positive ratings.

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Why Did We Like It?

The MOOCK MK-DC-01 6” Stainless Steel Digital Caliper may not provide an array of features that are not found in any other caliper, but it does do the simple things well. As the name itself suggests, this product comes in a stainless-steel design that looks good and also offers protection.

Adding to the protection is an IP Grade 54 feature that helps to block out dust, insects, and water that could tinker with the readings.

When it comes to calculations, this caliper is accurate up to 0.0005-inch/0.01-mm. In addition, this device is good for measuring internal and external dimensions, diameters, depth, and steps. 

Also, this product offers a quick conversion between three scales – inches, millimeters, and fractions- and the zero-button feature allows users to quickly start a new measurement. But out of all the improvements, the most significant is a machine-grooved thumb roller for accurate adjustment.

What Could’ve Been Better?

The MOOCK MK-DC-01 6” Stainless Steel Digital Caliper is heavier than other calipers in the market. This could keep away buyers who prefer to use a lighter device. Apart from this, the movement of the components is also not as smooth as in other products.

Best Digital Caliper Comparison Table

Buying Guide For The Best Digital Caliper

Calipers have been around for a long time and with new products lining the market every day, it becomes hard to know which ones are the best. This list of the 9 best digital calipers of 2023 offers you knowledge of the best products so that you can make an informed choice.

There are certain features that any caliper cannot do away with and the following list will hopefully help you pick the best caliper suited to your specific needs.

1. Material

The material with which any caliper is made is of utmost importance. No matter how many technological addictions are made to the product, if it stops working after a few months then it is of no use.

While steel is generally used for most calipers, some designers use plastic. But when it comes down to the two, steel is the better choice. Steel provides greater durability and more protection along with an elegant look.

However, improvements need to be made to the material as well, and making the steel stainless and resistant to water, oil, and dust further enhances the overall quality of the product.

2. Accuracy

If a person is buying a caliper, then accuracy is one of the prime concerns. In today’s world, everything is looked into down to the last detail.

So, a caliper that not only provides correct readings but also highly accurate ones, down to a couple of decimal places, will be highly desired. Moreover, the presence of multiple measuring systems and the ability to compare the results on different scales will add weight to the calculations.

In addition to this, the caliper must also be able to maneuver in tight spots and adjust accordingly to correctly measure an object.

3. Calibration

Calibration is important for calipers for two reasons – accuracy and ease of use. Calibration ensures that even first-time digital caliper users do not find it hard to understand the workings of the device.

Also, calibration ensures that calculations are highly accurate. This allows users who have intricate jobs like in the lab or in construction to get their measurements right, down to the last inch.

Further, a caliper should ideally be pre-calibrated and ready to use right out of the box because potential buyers should not have to worry about the calibration while operating or buying.

Conclusion

The market offers a wide range of digital calipers, each with unique features and capabilities that cater to various user requirements. These instruments are essential tools for measuring inside, outside, depth, and step values with high precision to ensure high-quality production and accurate data. As digital calipers continue to evolve, new user-friendly functions and designs will undoubtedly improve the overall user experience and boost productivity in different industries.

From the above 9 best digital calipers, here are the top three expert recommendations:

The VINCA DCLA-0605 Digital Vernier Caliper is an ideal option given its smooth stainless-steel body, pre-calibration, and built-in data transfer port, making it highly user-friendly. Despite its slightly loose depth rod, its overall performance, affordability, and additional features make it a great choice.

For those seeking more advanced features, the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Digital Caliper is a good option. Its built-in Advanced Onsite Sensor, built-in Zero/ABS key, and LCD screen display ensure accurate measurements up to 0.01mm increments. While its battery may have some drawbacks, such as overheating and manual turn-off, anyone seeking an advanced digital caliper won't be disappointed with its overall performance and accuracy.

Lastly, the Neiko 01407A Electronic Digital Caliper is the right choice for those who prioritize accuracy and simplicity. With three distinct measurement settings, this device provides highly accurate measurements within 0.02mm/0.001-inch precision. Its durability may not be as robust as other models, but its overall accuracy for general purposes makes it a popular choice.

Digital calipers are indispensable tools for obtaining precise measurements in various fields, from engineering and manufacturing to automotive and home repairs. With technological advancements, the user experience can only get better, and the performance of digital calipers can only improve. It's essential to carefully consider your specific needs, preferences, and budget before selecting the ideal digital caliper for your requirements.

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