Best Digital Calipers for Precision Measurements

Regarding the measurement specification, this 6" ranged electronic caliper is able to take measurements in millimeters and inches. The scale resolution is 0.0005" and the accuracy is up to 0.001". These ratings allow using the tool for measuring parts with the precision of one-hundredth of an inch, so the model can replace you a micrometer. However, most of all we appreciated the advanced onsite sensor as it provides correct readings even when it is stained with water, oil or dirt. This component considerably expands the tool applicability area and allows using it in rainy weather and at metal processing facilities, which employ coolants and oils. The tests showed that the sensor functions well when switching between different part sizes rapidly and delivers a correct measurement at the zero point. The only shortcoming of the caliper we found was the incorrect readings when the battery is depleted to 1.2V, so keep an eye on the battery charge and replace it in time.

We'd like to highlight a convenient arrangement of controls of this digital caliper. The ZERO/ABS and ORIGIN buttons are located close to your thumb, which allows quickly adjusting the tool up. Also, you can use the button above the LCD display that switches the mode of displaying the measurement results between inch and millimeter values. Hence, you'll be able to measure parts in different metrics and check the readings against different documents and specifications. Additionally, we'd like to point out a smooth run and high sensitivity of the thumbscrew that ensure high-accuracy measurements.

The PC connectivity and digital data output are the main strengths of this digital caliper. All you need is a USB cable or a special wireless adapter to transfer the measurement data. This feature may be beneficial for enterprises where preparing numerous measurement reports and data logging is a daily routine. Also, we found that the tool meets the DIN 862 standard, so you can connect it to accessory equipment for measuring the parameters of details with complex geometry. As for the caliper protection, it complies with the necessary standards too. The stainless steel body and IP54 protection allow using the tool in production facilities despite high levels of dirt pollution and humidity. Still, mind that the measuring bar has to be kept clear as it is crucial for the measurement accuracy.

If you pick a digital caliper for your workshop, you definitely need a bench grinder to buff workpieces and tools. Also, consider buying one of the wet-dry vacuums to remove chips and dust from your workplace. After all, remember wearing such safety equipment as hearing protectors.

This electronic caliper is not inferior to its more advanced counterparts and allows measuring parts of up to 6" in size. The caliper has a ±.001" gauging error, which is small enough for domestic jobs. The testing discovered that the accuracy drops to 0.002" when the measurement is done at the tips of the jaws. Though, that's not nearly a disaster for measuring objects made of wood. The next thing about the tool we'd like to report is the measuring scale that includes inches, millimeters, and fractions. This is advantageous as lots of technical specifications provide data in these units. Also, the caliper offers another useful feature. This digital caliper has a zero button that will help you reset the display if the water is spilled on the tool and the measurement fails. The tool is able to work for quite a long time owing to a low power consumption and the auto-off feature that can be rarely seen in tools of this class.

Calipers are often used when machining metal goods and repairing cars. If you are collecting tools for performing such operations, a plasma cutter may come in handy for cutting through metalware. Also, if you deal with car body repairs, pay attention to our review on sandblasters that will help remove rust and paint safely and with minimum effort.

Since this model is considered among the entry-level calipers and is similar to other models in our review, we decided to tell you about our experience with the VINCA DCLA-0805 in detail. The thing that was the most visually arresting when opening the package, was the bright red case of this digital vernier caliper. This is a bit confusing as most calipers come in black cases. The advantage, on the other hand, is that this package is easier to find among other tools in your workshop. The tool is made of stainless steel and is machined with high precision so you will not experience any burrs and sharp edges. The surfaces are well polished and we found no skews while using it. Also, we liked its display readable at sunlight, which is a rare case for calipers. The downside though is that only the first two digits are displayed in full, while the others are half-sized and somewhat hard to read.

If you need tools for processing timber, consider buying a jointer. This tool will help you edge pieces to connect them together. Furthermore, you can use a jointer to flatten workpieces before the planing. Woodworking causes lots of dust and chips that may be harmful to your breathing organs, so wear a mask or a respirator while working.

While these are obviously related, we'd say that the model's accuracy is its second most impressive characteristic behind its construction and the overall design. For one, the LCD screen is particularly large. The size makes it easier to read the measurements from a distance. It also has a really high contrast, so you'll be able to make sense of the measurements even on a bright sunny day.

Something that can be said about most models in our review but definitely not about the majority of digital calipers is the presence of fractional markings on the slide. It's a nice touch that helps when you forget to change the battery or when the digital readouts just do not work for one reason or the other.

The iGaging 100-333-8B is made of hardened stainless steel, which is, again, nothing we haven't seen before. But the same can't be said about its compliance with the IP54 protection standard. The model is particularly resistant against dust, splashes of water, and oil. The bottom jaw of the caliper is moved up and down the beam by a smooth thumb roll. This makes for a nice controlled adjustment. A locking screw effectively tightens to lock measurements for a stable, accurate reference.

In conclusion, the iGaging 100-333-8B might be the only budget digital caliper that offers 4 digits decimal in SAE mode or 1/128" fractional display. Add to that the model's convenient and sturdy design, outstanding precision, and respectable accuracy, and you'll be hard-pressed to find a better deal.