Most mechanical design engineers use digital calipers on a daily basis. You need to trust they are accurate and precise but those characteristics can come at a high cost. Here is some information about choosing a digital caliper.

Mitutoyo is the industry standard but at over $100 there are cheaper options to choose. This 10 minute video tests and reviews several of the brands available on amazon.

Recommended Brands

Mitutoyo 500-196-20 $117

• Trusted choice
• Accurate and reliable

iGaging EZ Cal IP54 $40

• Comparable accuracy and precision to Mitutoyo at half the price
• More easily found battery size
• You can upgrade for a model that displays fractional measurements
• Auto-off feature

iGaging EZ Cal IP54 $26

• Cheaper model of above

I decided to purchase the 6″ iGaging dual unit IP54 caliper for $50 from Amazon. It includes a data transfer port and a 2 year warranty.

Brands NOT recommended:

Neiko 01407A, Capri Tools & Carrera Precision CP9806-TF