Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Advanced Onsite Sensor (AOS) Absolute Scale Digital Caliper, 0 to 6″/0 to 150mm Measuring Range, 0.0005″/0.01mm Resolution, LCD Industrial & Scientific
About this item Measures 0 to 6″ (0 to 150mm) in 0.0005″ (0.01mm) increments for precision use Digital readout LCD shows inch or metric units for versatility when measuring Advanced onsite sensor (AOS) electromagnetic inductive sensor for resistance to dirt, oil, and water Measures inside, outside, depth, and step values for versatility. With thumb roller. Except 500-500-10, 500-501-10,500-502-10 Includes protective case and SR44 silver oxide battery
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Description
From the manufacturer
Features
Mitutoyo’s absolute Digimatic Caliper is the next generation of electronic calipers. It keeps track of its origin point once set. Whenever turned on, the large LCD displays the actual slider position ready to start measurement. No more repeated zero setting is necessary with the absolute encoder technology, as well as no more concern for over speed errors.
- Large and clear LCD readout.
- The Zero/ABS key allows the display to be Zero-Set at any slider position along the scale for incremental comparison measurements. This switch will also allow return to the absolute (ABS) coordinate and display of the true position from the origin point (usually jaws-closed point).
- Data Hold Unit (959143) is optional.
- Carbide-tipped jaw type calipers are also available.
- With thumb roller. Except 500-500-10, 500-501-10,500-502-10.
- Supplied in fitted plastic case. Except 1000mm / 40” supplied in wooden case.
About this item
- Measures 0 to 6″ (0 to 150mm) in 0.0005″ (0.01mm) increments for precision use
- Digital readout LCD shows inch or metric units for versatility when measuring
- Advanced onsite sensor (AOS) electromagnetic inductive sensor for resistance to dirt, oil, and water
- Measures inside, outside, depth, and step values for versatility. With thumb roller. Except 500-500-10, 500-501-10,500-502-10
- Includes protective case and SR44 silver oxide battery
About this item Measures 0 to 6″ (0 to 150mm) in 0.0005″ (0.01mm) increments for precision use Digital readout LCD shows inch or metric units for versatility when measuring Advanced onsite sensor (AOS) electromagnetic inductive sensor for resistance to dirt, oil, and water Measures inside, outside, depth, and step values for versatility. With thumb roller. Except 500-500-10, 500-501-10,500-502-10 Includes protective case and SR44 silver oxide battery › See more product details
The Mitutoyo 500-196-30 digital caliper has a 0 to 6″ (0 to 150mm) measuring range with 0.0005″ (0.01mm) increments for precision and an advanced onsite sensor (AOS) electromagnetic inductive sensor for resistance to dirt, oil, and water. Its digital readout LCD shows inch or metric units for versatility, and allows either absolute or incremental measurement readings. The electronic caliper measures inside, outside, depth, and step values for versatility and includes a protective case and SR44 silver oxide battery.
Digital calipers are measuring instruments commonly used for inspection in manufacturing to provide the precise measurements of an object. A pair of jaws attached to a long beam with a marked scale is used to take inside, outside, and step measurements. An additional depth probe slides along the beam to take depth measurements. One jaw is fixed to the end of the scale, while the other jaw slides along it with gearless precision to take measurements. The reading is electronically generated and displayed on a digital, high-resolution screen as a single value. Digital calipers can take differential measurements, which are used to determine the difference in measurements between two objects, by zeroing the display at any point along the scale. Some digital calipers can switch between standard and metric units, and some can output readings to a computer or printer for recording measurements. Compared to dial calipers, digital calipers provide measurements that are faster, easier, and more error-free, but they are more fragile mechanically and electronically, and do not resist coolant well. Vernier calipers are more durable than digital calipers because they do not have internal moving parts, but they can be more difficult to read. Digital calipers are commonly used in fields such as metalworking, mechanical engineering, machining, carpentry, and medicine.
Mitutoyo manufactures precision measuring tools, metrology equipment, and related systems. The company, founded in Tokyo in 1934, formed Mitutoyo America Corporation in 1963 with headquarters in Aurora, IL.
What’s in the Box?
- Electronic caliper
- SR44 battery
- Protective case
Additional information
| Is Discontinued By Manufacturer : | No |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions : | 3.94 x 1.18 x 8.66 inches; 6 ounces |
| Item model number : | 500-196-30 |
| National Stock Number : | 5210-01-259-6010 |
| Batteries : | 1 LR44 batteries required. (included) |
| Date First Available : | June 16, 2011 |
| Manufacturer : | Mitutoyo |
60 reviews for Mitutoyo 500-196-30 Advanced Onsite Sensor (AOS) Absolute Scale Digital Caliper, 0 to 6″/0 to 150mm Measuring Range, 0.0005″/0.01mm Resolution, LCD Industrial & Scientific
Only logged in customers who have purchased this product may leave a review.
James –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Calipers
Works as expected nice quality would recommend these
Jared –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Seems well made, but not smooth
Bought these cause I wanted a quality set of calipers.My old 20 year old china ones still work, but they are a little finicky.These seem great, the readout is easy to read, and it has a extra decimal point than my old pair has.I had to knock them 1 star because they are not smooth. When you slide them, it feels rough/gritty.My cheap pair slides butter smooth.I would have thought for the price they would be smooth, But I can deal with it as long as they are accurate.
Ufuk altuntas –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Good
Original good product – seller amazon
John Williams –
5.0 out of 5 stars
More accurate than my iGaging tool, and easier to read
I bought this because it was on special and all the Cool Kids have one. I’d previously used an iGaging equivalent. That tool’s sharp edges hurt (I’m probably holding it wrong?) but more importantly it’s 1.5 thousandth’s of an inch wrong! In the use I have for these tools, that matters.I only found that out when comparing my existing tool with my new one an noticing the difference. Only then did I use both of them to measure something of known length, and found the the Mitutoyo is exactly accurate and the iGaging is not.So thanks for making this amazing tool available at a reasonable price!
One person found this helpful
Cristhofer Alexander Castro Ramirez –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Producto de Excelente Calidad
Producto de excelente calidad, todo muy bien, preciso, confiable y fácil de manejar.
Melvin E. Conely –
5.0 out of 5 stars
It’s accurate
Works as advertised, accurate to 10/1000. Worth the money if you need accurate readings. I use for reloading purposes.
Lube Guy –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Got it the same day I ordered.
High quality, easy to use, accurate.
Used To CareUsed To Care –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Purchased May 2020; Still On Original Battery; Made In Japan
I’ve been collecting calipers of various sorts for decades and have a drawer full of them. This Mitutoyo 500-196-30 6″ has performed flawlessly for four years since getting it in May of 2020.Still on the original battery. I do turn it off manually, but that battery still powers the caliper well.I do miss the ability to see in fractions, so I keep an inexpensive HF Pittsburgh around, too.At first I purchased the 4-inch version of this Mitutoyo, but unless you absolutely need its smaller size, it’s not comfortable to use because when open to 2 inches, the short end makes the caliper difficult to hold. The 6-inch model is the one to have, or the 8-inch.The Mitutoyo 500-196-30 was not zeroing, then I realized I had to close the caliper and press the “Origin” button. Now it always reads zero when starting out.Also, as you can see from the picture, the caliper’s label reads, “MADE IN JAPAN.” The Chinese have no qualms writing “Made in Jhapan” on their tools if it means more sales, so be aware. Check out “PSA: Identifying Counterfeit Mitutoyo Calipers – 2022 Edition.” on YT for how to tell the fakes.
4 people found this helpful
Jessica smith –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Works great not calibrated though
Not calibrated
Mark D. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great quality precision tool. Not a cheap product.
There’s a great place for the inexpensive calipers you can get at stores with the initials HF, but sometimes there’s a need for a much more precision tool, and this fits that bill nicely.
Chris Altizer –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Even for one of the cheapest Mitutoyo, its accuracy and function are perfect!
I only needed to use this once in a blue moon, so I bought the cheapest one Mitutoyo had. I’ve tested it against a friends and its accurate!
OleGrumpy –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent tool
Great quality at a great price. You can buy a more expensive caliber but you won’t find one any better than the Mitutoyo.
George B.George B. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Mitutoyo 500-196-30 AOS Absolute 6″ Caliper
Before my review on the operation and accuracy of the Mitutoyo caliper, I wanted to share some key things to look for to verify you have purchased an authentic Mitutoyo Caliper and not a fake one. If you’ve done some research on the these calipers you probably found some reviews on eBay and Amazon about fake Mitutoyo calipers from China. So first thing, if you find Mitutoyo 500-196-30 calipers listed between $30-$60 they are fake (a good price will usually be between $100-$125). Now that said the one I purchased on Amazon was listed at $95.02 (this was best price I found on the internet, and per the info on the internet and to the best of my knowledge they are legit). So here are the top things I found on the internet to help ensure authenticity:- Mitutoyo is a Japanese company so stay away from sellers from China, and the case should say made in Japan not China- The serial number on the back of the caliper should match the Certificate of Inspection- Mitutoyo calipers are shipped in a sealed plastic packet and are wrapped in an anti-corrosive paper- Mitutoyo calipers include a stainless steel battery (SR44) in a separate package, and it should not be installed- Mitutoyo calipers should include a yellow (3) step set up procedure attached to the lock screw at the top of the caliper- Mitutoyo calipers will always have the same size numerical digits and the “inch” symbol will be to the right of the digitsNow for my review…simply awesome! I recently got into reloading match grade ammo for my precision rifle, and +/- .005 can make a huge difference on your group size and hitting a target at 1000+ yards out. When I first started reloading I was using my old $20 Harbor Freight calipers, which is ok for basic reloading. However I wasn’t getting consistent measurements and the Harbor Frieght calipers would always lose the zero position, so I’d need to recalibrate after every measurement. In some cases on (3) separate measurements of the same bullet it would vary .005 – .015 and that’s not going to cut it for reloading precision ammo, in the pictures below I was able to consistently get the same measurement on all (5) bullets I loaded at (3) different lengths. The Absolute zero function works flawlessly and is a must for me since I use a special adapter to measure the bullet length. So end result very pleased with these calipers and highly recommend.
82 people found this helpful
Ryan –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Awesome
Smooth and accurate i use it for reloading. Again nothing is more smooth.
That d. –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Very accurate and comfortable
Pros: great screen; all the options with depth, inside, and outside measurements as well as origin and mm conversions, also I appreciate the ruler included on the stick; the readout is very fine accuracy wiseCons: Mine got gummed up very quickly and needed to be cleaned out and lubed again as the instructions tell you to out of the boxOverall: great for machining and mechanic work I would buy it again but doubt that I’ll need to so long as I maintain it.
One person found this helpful
a reviewer –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Love this tool!
Extremely accurate. We use it all the time for our laser engraving business!
ERIC STAUCH –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Great Digital Calipers
Got these to replace my old one that wouldn’t return to zero and had accuracy problems. These are a perfect replacement! Now the only part I don’t know, is how long they will last……….. keeping my fingers crossed!
Robert Dondero –
5.0 out of 5 stars
inch/mm button is recessed too much making it difficult to change between them.
I bought this on Amazon and did the 17 point check that is on Google to spot a fake and all 17 points were spot on for being the real thing. This is a great measuring tool with my only complaint being that the inch/mm button is set to low and required me to use a chisel tip micro screwdriver to change settings hence the loss of 2 stars. I am undecided on whether to send it back or just live with the minor inconvenience. I would recommend this tool but make sure you google the 17 ways to spot a fake Mitutoyo as they are all over other e commerce sites. I received a new one in 1 day & am completely satisfied with the new one and again it is the real thing. I am mailing the old one back from staples. I am amending my review to 5 stars Thanks Amazon
2 people found this helpful
WGB –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent product
Excellent quality.For my purposes, the 8″ size is much easier to use, than the 6″.
Clif –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Works as advertised
The instructions are largely simple illustrations. The English language text makes no mention of the need to press the “Origin” button to clear the “dash horizontal lines” to a “numeric” output on the digital readout. Therefore pay close attention to the illustrations to avoid confusion!I caught this only after carefully examining each illustration (as there is no mention of this strange display in the text of the operating instructions). Despite my initial consternation, I am very pleased with this digital caliper.
Robert Shough –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Good product Horrible shipping directly from amazon.
Several days late. Not fault of seller. Amazon delivery sucks.
Santa Claus –
5.0 out of 5 stars
The real McCoy
The unit I received is 100% authentic. Verified with YouTube. It is a joy to manipulate and use. Pure Japanese quality. The only thing it needs is some foam for the calipers to sit on so they don’t rattle in the case. You can’t get more accurate than Mitutoyo. Beware there are fakes out there.Careful, it’s sharp!
Owen Pothering –
3.0 out of 5 stars
great product – but sent without battery cover
works great, unfortunately a battery cover was not included with it, so the battery is constantly falling out.
Jeff K. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
PERFECT
i have tested these calipers in so many ways and is perfect in every test. I have several less expensive pairs of calipers and one more expensive with none as accurate. Tested hundreds of times on gauge pins and every time it is right on the money.
Christopher Hyatt –
5.0 out of 5 stars
The price was very reasonable.
I use it for measuring and reloading ammunition.
CBrew –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Very nice upgrade from the el-cheapo calipers
I splurged and bought this to replace an el-cheapo digital calipers. Is it worth the spend? Yes, definitely. These are clearly a finely machined tool. I highly recommend.
SAMDMAN –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Precision
I purchased this mic to use for reloading. I have a bluepoint that well I wasn’t happy with how often I had to zero, and I needed a second mic so I could check shoulder bump and seating depth without swapping the little adapters out. I must say this a much better tool. Very smooth, accurate and holds zero Very well. Highly recommend 👌
RJ –
5.0 out of 5 stars
6” Caliper
This is a replacement for the same model caliper I had for many years. The display on my old caliper finally died so I bought this one as it is almost identical to the old one.
vu l. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
The best measurement tool
I’ve been juicing that caliper in 10 years and it’s still working great
Thomas F. Newman –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Excellent product & Delivery!
Excellent products delivered in record time.Thanks!
Firebug –
5.0 out of 5 stars
As advertised Quality Product
Arrived in timely manner, product was packaged nicely. Arrived in good condition, Arrived in new condition box and plastic case. Pleased with quality of product, came with battery instructions. Product works well, easy to read screen. Accuracy is fine. Product a bit pricey but compared to other models and companies reputation was worth the cost. Very pleased.
One person found this helpful
Stephen D. Ferris –
5.0 out of 5 stars
The Real McCoy
This Mitutoyo Model 500-196-30 6″ Digimatic Caliper is a beauty. I had previously purchased a Mitutoyo 293-340-30 0 – 1″ Digital Micrometer several years ago – which I love for its accuracy (measured many times against a Mitutoyo 1″ ‘standard’ block), its repeatability, its resolution (down to 0.00005″, its ‘absolute zero’ function, and its butter-smooth quality of construction and handling. I really like quality measuring devices and also have some classic Starrett instruments purchased over more-than-a- few decades (made in Athol, MA since 1880, now almost 145 years ago).But I digress. The genuine Mitutoyo instruments are outstanding. Like many outstanding products (think Gucci, Rolex, etc.), Mitutoyo attracts imitators. There is a remarkable variety of counterfeits and outright fakes – some of ‘reasonable’ accuracy (but for how long?) – and some junk. Just Google the subject and see how easy it is to tell if you have purchased the genuine article – or a copy. Here are just a few of the ways I was certain I had received the “real McCoy”:1. Price: Real ones go for $120+. Fakes can be found in abundance on eBay for $39.99. Now the details.2. Outer box is the ‘right’ color of orange (somewhat lighter, and not ‘red-orange’).3. Diagonal stripes in upper LH corner of outer box are deep charcoal gray (not black).4. Plastic case is well made and, clearly appearing in raised letters on the underside, is marked “Made in Japan.” Counterfeits make no claim regarding their origin (guess) in this location.5. Opening the box, the neatly arranged documentation is unmarked, flat / uncrushed by the little interior plastic ‘hold-down’ bars that keep the caliper in place when the case is closed. Not so with fakes, which typically come with wrinkled / crushed documentation.6. Look at “Certificate of Inspection” – and in particular the “Serial Number.” Is it crisply rendered, like all the other type, in the very same font, and in perfect register centered in the little ‘box’ where it appears? Counterfeits typically have this SN added later – and it is often somewhat fuzzy + not centered / different font.7. Battery Card: Mine came with ‘Mitutoyo’ stamped on the card, with a realistic expiration date on the back, and ‘SR44SW’ + ‘Japan’ on the battery itself. YMMV with counterfeits.8. When you insert the battery into its compartment, does the display come up with a string of flashing dashes, which go away and display ‘0.0000’ only when you press the “Origin” button? Fakes often come up with zeros immediately – no flashing dashes first.9. Origin button: does its top sit proud of the casing surface? Counterfeits often have this button almost ‘recessed.’10. Back out the lockdown screw on top of the bar. Is it captive? Fakes are usually not, and will fall right out into your hand if you unscrew them.11. Look at the fixed bar in the area just under the “0” on the engraved scale. Is the cutout there (on this fixed portion of the blade) fully ‘radiused’ – or is it at a more abrupt right angle with little curvature? Fakes often exhibit that shape (this can be a somewhat subtle ‘tell’).12. Turn the caliper over after rolling the thumbwheel out to 1.5″ or so and look at the “channel” in the fixed bar. Is it perfectly milled out, with a well-defined semi-circle at the LH end? Counterfeits typically have a “ramped” and squared off appearance at the end of this channel.13. Look at the end of the ‘depth’ bar. Smoothly circular radius, and short tip? Reproductions often show a rather longish tip.14. Operation. Rolling the thumbwheel feels butter smooth. Fakes often have a ‘gritty’ feel.These are just a few of the ways to spot a non-genuine pair of calipers. Not saying the reproductions cannot be fairly accurate (but again, for how long – and how repeatable are the measurements), and you may indeed feel you got your money’s worth (at under $40). But when the price seems “too good to be true,” it almost invariably is too good to be genuine.Bottom line: if you care about such things, know that in this case Amazon is offering the real thing – and that it is of very high quality.
18 people found this helpful
Naoya Nishimura –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Accuracy. Easy to read the digital display. Very smooth slide movement.
If you need accuracy to the 4th decimal places (inches) with consistent results (MM is two decimal places). This is a good digital caliper to have. The slide movement is very smooth and easy to operate by rotating the metal thumb wheel at the base of the caliper or you can move it more quickly by grabbing the ribbed plastic handle located at the bottom of the battery compartment/next to the thumb wheel. There are 4 buttons on the display handle. On/off. In/mm. Zero/Abs – Allows you to get measurement differences between two objects. Origin – Press at 0″ to calibrate. Like some of the other calipers, this also has a depth measure that will start protruding as you start opening the caliper. This unit is powered by one SR44 battery. The unit is made in Japan.
One person found this helpful
Z-06 –
5.0 out of 5 stars
What a Beautiful Piece of Precision Machinery
Background:I have had this caliper for over 7 years.I appreciate craftsmanship and critical thinking attention to details of tools and equipment – I call it an engineer’s art work. When it comes to tools, in general, I have a “buy once cry once” mentality. Unless, there is a sense of urgency, I usually put tools in my “Tools” list, till I see the price go down to my target, which is when I pull the trigger.I worked with a few Mitutoyo equipment in grad school and at work. I always loved their craftsmanship and sturdiness. As a hobbyist and an engineer, I use this caliper to do a lot of different measurements. I needed something, which was not made in cheap China and was consistent with high level of precision, so I decided to cry once for a precision caliper.Pros:1. It is very well made precision device. The attention to details on this caliper is pure class and worth spending 5 to 10 times more than the Chinese devices. When I first bought it, I had a staring competition every few days, just to see its craftsmanship and what new I would observe on the device that I appreciated.2. Came with a calibration certificate, and it matches to actual calibration measurement tools I have at work, to test it. it has not lost the calibration after 7 years of consistent usage.3. Easy to read display and the actual scale.4. High quality material.5. Long battery life. I am yet to replace the original battery that it came with.Actually nothing I am saying above is out of the ordinary for a Mitutoyo, it is expected.Cons:1. Let’s get it out, PRICE. It was just over one bill when I purchased. But to me it was worth it.2. Box – while it is sturdy and well made, I wish it would have come with a cubby to place the calibration certificate. The certificate falls down almost every time I open the box. I know I am nitpicking here.Conclusion:Buy once and cry once, for you will not regret it. Just don’t tell your significant other how much was it worth, especially if he/she is not in technical field, for an engineer’s art sometime is often unappreciated.
28 people found this helpful
RICHARD –
5.0 out of 5 stars
High quality, well made
Excellent for measuring, accurate
Jet Jockey –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Accurate and easy to use
Caliper was very consistent with repeatable results. Easy to read and accurate. Love the 4-way measurements; inside, outside, depth and step.
Kenneth DeBord –
5.0 out of 5 stars
excellent caliper
The best caliper I’ve used. I have 3 of them in various parts of my shop. Never an issue.
Jeffrey A Gardner –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Great tool. Poor case and instruction sheet.
Caliper – 5-starsSo far, I am impressed.• The display is clear.• The metal throughout is nice and heavy, not likely to bend or flex with normal use.• In addition to the inside, outside, and depth measurement modes, the fourth measurement mode, the “step” measurement mode, was a nice surprise, something that my analog, manual caliper did not have.• The “incremental” measurement method was also a nice surprise, to be able to measure the difference between a standard and two other items (e.g. items duplicated from the original).• I had no problem with the buttons. The “in/mm” button took the most effort, but I like that so that I don’t accidentally switch the measuring system with an errant finger swipe.• I cannot speak for accuracy (I have no accurate standard to measure against) but the precision (i.e. repeatability of the measurement) seems good.• An auto-off feature would have been appreciated, but is not a game changer.• Measurement markings along the beam would have been nice, also. Perhaps these appear in another model?Case – 2-starsI agree with other reviewers that the case does not at all seem appropriate for this level of tool.• The tool sits too loosely in the case with no padding.• The thin plastic that serves as hinges will no doubt split and fall apart in the not too distant future with even the most careful use.• It is a cheap case.Instructions – 1-star (Zero, if possible…)These are at best silly, at worst, absurd. The “international language” (yeah, right) of pictograms takes some pondering to figure out.There is a yellow tag that is attached to the caliper that shows three steps for battery installation and zeroing out the caliper. These three steps are encapsulated in steps 1 and 2 of the pictogram instructions.However, step 3 of the pictogram is a head scratcher indeed. (By the way, it has nothing to do with a “calibration sequence” that somehow results in a reading of 12.40 (by measuring what, exactly?) as mentioned elsewhere in a 5-star review.)After long pondering the pictograms (several hours…), it appears to be showing the difference between measuring to get an absolute reading of three items and measuring to get a differential or incremental reading between a standard and two other items. (If I’ve misinterpreted these pictograms, perhaps someone can correct me.)After spending 90% of the written “instructions” on warnings and cautions, they could have spent a few extra bucks to get a translation of the actual setup process using WORDS.Overall – 4-StarsOverall, I am giving this 4-Stars because of the weaknesses of the case and instructions.
One person found this helpful
Socal Marine –
5.0 out of 5 stars
great quality and NOT FAKE
Watched a video showing all the fake unit differences, ESP the serial number on the certificate being off center and in a different font/color – mine matches the unit and is legit. Also the cheap knock offs have a ramp on the back of the ruler slot, where the real deal has a round end without any ramp. Also the notch at the end of the poky bit is a short radius where on the knockoffs its longer like 4mm instead of 1-2.I have some cheaper units that work well but this will be for lathe use as I ruined 5 pieces last week due to one of my “good” sets reading 8 thou less on the outside jaws!Great quality from mitu – wish it had/has auto off!
Craig B. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Measures the world’s imperfections smoothly and perfectly.
Just buy it. Competitive models cost less and indeed measure stuff, but the Mitutoyo 500-186-30 operates very smoothly throughout its range, and only draws 1/15 the power when turned off in the tool drawer. Just when you need it the most, brand-X is 15 times more likely to have a dead battery. It may take 20 years, but the savings on batteries ($2) will help pay for the difference. Moreover, not needing a battery at a critical moment could easily save far more than the price difference.
Just give me what I paid for. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
My 21st caliper, and maybe my last one
I have been buying calipers for several years and never this satisfied. Of course all others most likely were chinesiums. Some, I purchased and was very happy for a few days, weeks, months. Battery died within 6 months. I thought that was the norm, so I purchased a dozen batteries to keep as needed.But lately I’ve done some research and decided to spend some hard earned money into this caliper and I am very happy. I also purchased one at half price on ebay 2 days ago, but had to cancel the transaction before the seller could ship. I first asked the ebay seller if this was genuine and made in japan, to which he said “yes” and “yes”. However, after watching several youtube videos, doing some more research and contacting the company, I asked this seller to please cancel the transaction before shipping it, which he did and I got my refund last night.This morning at 7.45am, I received this new one from Amazon and I was super excited to open it and see if all what I heard and saw was true. This of course feels terrific as was noticed by others. But feeling is not the purpose of this caliper. It sure does not even flicker the numbers like my others did. The numbers on the screen are distinct, and repeatable. All features are on point. I measured several items, inclding paper thickness of various papers. All measurements repeat exact same. I then proceeded to do the ampere testing with my Fluke multimeter. Sure enough, the usage drops considerably when off, not like the others that use almost the same current whether on or off, thus explaining why their batteries die so soon.Bottom line, although I spent a lot more money than the other calipers on this one, am I satisfied? Yes. No regrets at all for the first time, on a caliper purchase.
9 people found this helpful
Kindle Customer –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Pro tool
Skip the cheap ones this is all you need
Jim Williams –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Reliable Seller, Prompt Shipping
This is my second unit from this seller. The last one was several years ago. No problems either time. Other than that, they’re Mitutoyos, so they’re one of the best.
Luke J. Brennan –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Received a genuine Mitutoyo, not a Chinese counterfeit
I was afraid to spend $125 on a digital caliper when I heard all the horror stories about the Chinese counterfeits out there on eBay and even Amazon. I figured I would buy them and if they appeared fake I would just send them back. I received these the day after I ordered them. I just watched a 35 minute YouTube on how to tell the real Mitutoyo from the fakes, and I am happy to report that these are genuine. Not only are they genuine, but they are a beautiful piece of precision machinery. Super smooth to operate, easy to read, even the protective case is well designed and a nice addition.
3 people found this helpful
lee cam –
5.0 out of 5 stars
wow
everything came wrapped like new. tested great. great product, nice price. hope these aren’t fake, if these are fake, they are the best looking fakes i’ve seen.
Mosfet50 –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Genuine Mitutoyo
Lots of cheap fakes but I checked several good UT videos on how to know if your caliper is genuine – again, this one is and it’s a beauty!I’ve been machining for over 40 years so I think I know a quality tool when I see one.Highly recommended.
Erik –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Genuine Mitutoyo!
My Mitutoyo calipers from 25 years ago are still going strong, but are not absolute. These are a pleasure to use and inspire confidence. I like these way more than the cheap Chinese versions. Did some quick impromptu testing with 1-2-3 blocks, and these passed with flying colors. Highly recommended!
Robert J. Lund –
5.0 out of 5 stars
It stands the test of time, well, at least so far!
After 4 years of continued use, the instrument maintains its accuracy. And it comes with a complete set of instructions in at least a half dozen languages, a copy of the instrumentation and certification, a copy of the warranty and a certificate to use in case one needs service, and care and cleaning instructions. The only downside to the instrument is the small battery compartment cover which I damaged during battery installation. The battery cover is easily damaged if you are as heavy handed as I am and care needs to be taken removing and inserting new batteries. A battery cap replacement is available online from Amazon.
3 people found this helpful
Bill –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Accurate
Good quality works good
bobbat –
5.0 out of 5 stars
time to try a digital caliper.
I use linier and dial calipers, have for over 50 years. Decided to add a pair of digital calipers to my inventory.never had an issue with this brand, it has served me well for many years. Always dependable and the price was right..
One person found this helpful
Dan –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Precision measuring
Excellent instrument for concise measurements
OldBeast –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Just spend the money!
I am so pleased with this caliper. I’ve been using a cheap $30 one and it never gave a precise measurement twice in a row. You can actually feel the quality and difference with this caliper. I will never buy a cheap caliper again! Wish I would have bought this one to begin with so I didn’t have to guesstimate what the measurements were!
mike c. –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Nice!
Bought these and am impressed with the accuracy its a very nice caliper. Using micrometer standards they are spot on in calibration. The one I received is a genuine unit
Flash –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Initial calibration is most important
Refreshing to get a product you’re glad you paid for. Came with an accuracy cert, well packaged, has some heft to it, battery placement easy-peazy, handles well; however,…although not difficult to figure out from the directions, the process to ensure it is reading correctly took a few attempts. On the up-side I’m glad it’s that accurate, but that initial sequence might prove challenging to some. The goal is to get it to read 12.40 at the end of the calibration sequence. Not 12.41…not 12.39…12.40 (or in my case 12.53, 12.09, you get the picture.) We’re talking down to 1/100th of a mm. I didn’t know I was capable of such fine motor control, but there it is. I got my 12.40. Then I measured something that was .02 mm thick. Ain’t that sumpin’?
9 people found this helpful
David Schrock –
5.0 out of 5 stars
cost and use
great unit
One person found this helpful
CheerfuljuiceCheerfuljuice –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Easy to use even for a first timer.
I have never used one of these tools before, but I was able to figure it out pretty quickly and easily. It helped that I watched some videos while I was waiting for it to arrive of course. It also comes with directions in a whole bunch of different languages Japanese being the first and English being the second and so on, and I am lucky enough to have my husband give me a few pointers as he is more familiar with these tools. The tool seems to read accurately and I’ve had fun “playing” with it by measuring random things around the house. Oh and one important thing to note, if you are a newbie like me, be careful how much you push on the wheel when measuring as this can cause a lot of fluctuation and false numbers in your readings. Don’t forget to shut if off when not in use as I guess it does not turn off automatically (forgot to get one with that feature as I’m forgetful, oops). The battery comes with it, but you have to install it yourself, which is easy to do.I did not see or read the caution on one of the smaller white papers (they are all white papers) before I opened the tool, maybe they should make that page a caution yellow or red color to grab your attention better, anyways it said to be careful handling the brown paper that is in the bag with the tool as it is a special paper called “Ferobrite” used to protect the tool from corrosion. I didn’t realize that and touched it anyways, nothing bad happened but I did go wash my hands after I finally saw the warning paper.I got this tool to use with 3D printing primarily and I can’t wait to start crafting my own versions of stuff. My husband will also be using it for his own various projects. He is the one who recommended this brand stating that it is a great brand for some really accurate measurements at a fair price (he does mechanic work as a hobby and as we need for our vehicles along with other technical stuff that these tools are generally used for, he has a lot of neat hobbies)Overall it seems like a good purchase and I’ll update if that changes.
10 people found this helpful
Terry L. Olsen –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Hornady vs Mitutoyo Digital Calipers
I had a (admittedly 20 years old) Hornady digital calipers. It reset itself, changed from MM to inches at random, was very finicky about any movement using the thumb movement tool. I started using the Mitutoyo today; it’s precise, holds it’s zero, and doesn’t reset. What a wonderful improvement! Have a good one.
2 people found this helpful
Rob HRob H –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Buy from a Good Seller and You’ll Get a Lifetime Tool That’s a Pleasure to Use
Mitutoyo quality speaks for itself, so there’s not much to say. I’ve been using calipers since the mid-1980s when I had summer college work doing QC for a small electronics company and I’ve spent many hours holding Starrett, Mitutoyo, and other brands of analog and digital calipers. These feel like the good stuff and I’m glad I finally invested in quality. I have several very good Chinese pairs, but the smoothness and confidence these inspire is fantastic.Regarding counterfeits and knock-offs:Several sellers list products on Amazon and you need to pay close attention to the “sold and shipped by” information. In my case, MSI Viking was listed as the seller and I am confident I received the genuine article. How? Several things to check:- Is the seller a real company? (Yes in my case). Is that company actually listed by Mitutoyo as a legitimate distributor? (Google “mitutoyo distributor [company name]”. In my case, the company came right up on a mitutoyo.com website with addresses listed.)- When the box arrives, does it come from an address associated with the right company? (Again, in my case, yes. The FedEx origin label listed the exact street address that was on the Mitutoyo website.)- Does the company provide information in the box? (Yes. A business card with contact information and reminders about calibration services was included.)- Is the overall quality up to Japanese standards? (I immediately noticed several good signs: the paperwork included was stapled with a battery and every single edge lined up like origami. Every fold was crisp. Even the staple was perfectly straight and centered in the space on the battery card. The back of the staple was perfectly folded. This is Japanese attention to detail on insignificant accessories, not a $5 Chinese knockoff factory. The grinding marks on the steel were perfectly parallel with the caliper. All the edges were broken with no stray marks. The locking screw was captive with a reasonable-sized head, not a giant bulb that can fall out and get lost. The plastic cover lined up PERFECTLY with the screws it covered, and the screws were sealed with sealant to prevent tampering (and red in color). Also, there was no wavyness to the grind on the back, real Mitutoyos ship with no battery inside, and the battery itself was marked “Made in Japan.”)- The card hanging on the lock screw was plastic, durable, legible, and simple. Pictogram of the first 3 steps to put in the battery and set the origin, not some flimsy paper with lots of writing on it.- The label on the back is laser etched, crisp, and you can feel the relief in the printing.- The ends of the jaws meet perfectly.- On a set of gauge blocks, they measured perfectly, only showing a 0.001″ different on a 4 inch block.- They return to 0 every single time you close the jaws with a reassuring snap.Do your homework, and enjoy your investment.
29 people found this helpful
Aj –
5.0 out of 5 stars
Love these
Great pair of calipers quality is awesome very accurate
AWR –
4.0 out of 5 stars
Sturdy, reliable and accurate
This an invaluable device to use in conjunction with design software to create drawings for 3D printed parts. Measurements are accurate and highly repeatable.The only downside for me is the display which is sometimes difficult to read if you are not looking directly at the display. The issue is that the viewing window is not much larger than the display so the top of the digits can be shadowed by the lip of the window.Overall really pleased with it and use it almost daily.