This list contains the top brands in precision tools such as Starrett, Mitutoyo, Fowler, SPI, and Igaging.
Any of the micrometers on the list will do the job for you perfectly
well. What you after is a device that will give you accurate readings.
So what makes one micrometer better than the other? A better question
is why is one micrometer more expensive than another one. I ask this
question every time I buy a bottle of wine. What is it about this
bottle for $10.00 that I am missing if I bought a $50.00 bottle.
Basically I ask this question every time I buy anything. For this
article lets stick to micrometers, but the point has been made that
basically on every decision you make you are always asking yourself
should I spend more or less money for the item in question. There are
several factors that make one more expensive than the other one.
Factors such as price, quality durability, country of origin, and
features. High priced micrometers can last a very long time if they are
cared for properly. Some of the lower priced ones are almost like
disposable razors. You know going in that these will get the job done
but may not be your go to micrometer in your toolbox. These lower
priced models might not be there in a few years.
1. Mitutoyo 293-340 Digimatic Outside Micrometer, 0-1″ Range, 0.00005″/0.001mm Resolution, IP65, No Output, with Ratchet
http://www.penntoolco.com/293-340/
Number one on the list may I present to you one of my favorite and
most popular micrometers. The Mitutoyo 293-340. Back in 1934 the
founder of Mitutoyo Yehan Numata started his company with one product in
mind. THE MICROMETER. Many years have past but Mitutoyo is still
making some of highest quality micrometers around. They have gone
digital now and perform like as you would expect something out of Japan
to perform. Think of your favorite Japanese car. Or if you don’t like
Japanese cars, you certainly are someone who appreciates craftsmanship
and value. That is what you get with the Mitutoyo 293-340. Coming in
at under $150.00 the micrometer is certainly one of value. Priced just
right. Not too high and certainly not so low you are thinking this has
to be a piece of crap. No need to protect this in your toolbox. This
micrometer comes standard with a hard plastic case that will protect
your measuring device for many years down the road. With carbide tipped
measuring faces can you really go wrong?
Mitutoyo Coolant Proof Micrometer – 293-340
Range: 0-1″ w/ Ratchet Stop
with Dust/Water Protection Conforming to IP65 Level
FEATURES:
• IP65 protection level, enabling use in environments exposed to cutting oil, etc*
*Anti-corrosion treatment is required after use.
• Measurement data output function is available with a water-resistant connection cable.
• Auto power ON/OFF function.
• Certificate of inspection* is included. (50mm/2” or less range models)
*It is not the type used to obtain calibration certificates.
• With a standard bar except for 0-25mm/0-1″ model.
• Supplied in fitted case. Plastic case up to 150mm/6″, Wooden box over 150mm/6″
2. iGaging 0-1″ Digital Electronic Micrometer w/Large Display Inch/Metric
http://www.penntoolco.com/igaging-ip40-digital-micrometers/
IGaging Part# 35-040-025
IGaging is a relative newcomer on our list and it has been selling
fast. Priced on the lower end of the spectrum, the IGaging 0-1″ Digital
Electronic Micrometer will not disappoint. For under $75.00 you are
walking away with a device you can count on for accuracy but won’t break
the bank. Hobbyists and students who may be just getting into the
metalworking industry might want to jump in at this level and get their
feet wet. I compare this model to maybe shopping at IKEA. You know
when you are walking in that you are not looking for high end high
priced furniture. However after walking around and sitting on some beds
you are like wow this furniture is half bad. That is how we feel about
IGaging. Wow, you are pretty damn good!
iGaging IP40 Digital Micrometers
- Class leading Micrometer
- Easy to read LCD Display
- Accurate to 0.00015”
- Hardened and Ground Spindle
- Data output
- Carbide anvil(s)
- Resolution: 0.00005”/0.001mm
- Durable IP40 rating
UPC 787461658239 , 810823012162
EAN 0810823012162 , 0787461658239
3. The Starrett 795XFL-1 Starrett LCD Outside Micrometer, IP67, Friction Thimble, Lock Nut, Carbide Faces, Inch
http://www.penntoolco.com/starrett-electronic-micrometers-series-795-796
What can we say about this bad boy is that it’s made really well.
Everything you would expect from Starrett. A company who still
manufactures its tools in the good old USA. I compare this to the Ford
Mustang. Made in America and solid. For all those people out there who
only want to buy American but say they can’t find any good options.
The Starrett 795XFL-1 will not disappoint you. You have your Ford
Mustang or Harley Davidson in the palm of your hand now. Comes in a
little on the high side of a 0-1″ micrometer, but you get what you pay
for.
Starrett Electronic Micrometer
IP67 Protection Against Coolant, Water, Dust & Dirt
- RS232 output port for data transmission to Starrett DataSure® Wireless Data Collection Systems or wire-based data systems.On Series 795 only.
- Series 796 does not have data output.
- Balanced, tapered frame
- Starrett no-glare satin chrome finish on thimble and sleeve
- Hard and stable one piece spindle
- Large, easy-to-read LCD readout
- Micro-lapped carbide measuring faces
- Automatic OFF after 20 minutes of nonuse
- Inch/millimeter conversion
- Measurement HOLD button
- Zero tool at any position – retain and return to true zero
- Resolution: .00005″ (0.001mm)
- Accuracies: Inch: ±.0001″,Metric: ±.002mm
4.
SPI IP65 Electronic Outside Micrometer 13-731-5
http://www.penntoolco.com/spi-ip65-electronic-outside-micrometers/
At #4 we are happy to show you the SPI 0-1″ Outside Mike. She is a
beauty and the best thing about this dream micrometer is it’s NIST
Certified Right Out of the Box. That is a savings of about $50.00 right
there and coming in total at under $150.00 this best micrometer
certainly is a steal. Not only are you getting a great micrometer, it
is also testing for accuracy and supplied with the certificate proving
it! Wow that is great don’t you think? SPI warranties it’s product for
a year so you know that you are in good hands with this Micrometer. I
think you will be really happy with the value you get here and lots of
Penn Tool’s customers agree. Go with the SPI- “Your Partner in
Precision.”
SPI IP65 Electronic Outside Micrometer, 0-1″ – 13-731-5
- IP65 level protection
- Carbide measuring faces
- Spindle: 0.25″ dia.
- Standard included above 0-1″ range
- SPC output. (cable optional)
- Painted frame with heat shield
- Resolution: 0.00005″/0.001 mm
- Absolute and incremental measuring modes
- Ratchet thimble
- Splindle lock
- Certification of calibration traceable to NIST
- Furnished in fitted case
0 to 1 Inch Range, 0.0001 Inch Resolution, Standard Throat, IP65 Electronic Outside Micrometer
| Measuring Range |
0 – 1″ |
| Resolution (Inch) |
0.00005″ |
| Resolution (mm) |
0.001 mm |
| Thimble |
Ratchet |
| Fract Minimum Range Measurement |
0 |
| Display Type |
LCD |
| Accuracy |
0.00016″ |
| Battery Type |
SR44 |
| SPC Output |
Yes |
| SPI Part Number |
13-731-5 |
| Includes |
Certificate of Calibration Traceable to NIST |
SPI Micrometers
5.
Fowler 54-860-001 Electronic IP54 Outside Micrometer,
0-1″/0-25mm Measuring Range, 0.00005″/0.001mm Resolution, 0.00016″
Accuracy, RS-232 Output
http://www.penntoolco.com/fowler-electronic-micrometers-sets/
Coming at #5 a brand that never disappoints, the Fowler 54-860-001 is
oh so sweet and under $90.00 at the time this article was written.
Fowler has always been synonymous with high quality and great value.
Our boys from Boston, actually Newton Mass, give it their all like the
New England Patriots did this year in the Super Bowl. I am not saying
that Fowler is some come from behind brand, but they are like an old
reliable pal. Always there for you and not going to rip you off. What
else do you want in this micrometer? Pick up one of these and you are
sure to be as happy as Tom Brady. Well maybe not that happy, but try
out some Fowler Tools and you are sure to smile knowing you got a great
tool.
Fowler Electronic Micrometer, 0-1″ – 54-860-001
- Large, easy to read LCD display
- Automatic switch off
- Accuracy: .00016″ 0-1″
- Direct RS232 output
- Insulated frames
- Electronics are protected by tough, ABS housing
- Friction thimble
- Includes fitted case
- Digital outside micrometers with a choice of measuring range and flat anvil/spindle pair for general purpose measuring
- LCD performs direct inch/metric conversions and has a switchable resolution of 0.00005″ and 0.001mm
- Friction thimble provides smooth and quiet operation, and is suitable for one-handed operation
- Certified IP54 for dust and water protection and ABS housing provides durability and protection of electrical components
- RS-232 output provides ability to export readings to a computer (cable not included)
- UNSPSC Code 41111601
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