Choosing a digital caliper for dimensional metrology machine inspection usually starts with two practical questions: how much measuring range do you need, and do you need output to log readings? The four options here split into 6-inch and 8-inch models, with one model explicitly labeled for output. Listed prices span USD 45.26 to USD 153.30, so the decision often comes down to range, output, and budget.
Quick take
If you want the lowest listed price and a 6-inch range, the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 at USD 45.26 is the entry point. If you need 8-inch capacity with output, the MITUTOYO Digital Caliper, 500-172-30 8-inch/200MM AOS ABS with Output at USD 153.30 is the only title that mentions output. The 8-inch Mitutoyo 500-197-30 sits in the middle at USD 110.00, while the 500-196-30 Mitutoyo 150mm Absolute Digital Caliper at USD 45.57 offers another 6-inch option.
Listed price comparison
| Product | Listed price | Price bar |
|---|---|---|
| Mitutoyo 500-196-30 New 0-6 inch 150mm Absolute Encoder Digital Caliper | USD 45.26 | |
| 500-196-30 Mitutoyo 150mm Absolute Digital Caliper | USD 45.57 | |
| Mitutoyo 500-197-30 200mm/8 inch Absolute Digital Digimatic Vernier Caliper | USD 110.00 | |
| MITUTOYO Digital Caliper, 500-172-30 8-inch/200MM AOS ABS with Output | USD 153.30 |
Decision matrix
| If you need... | Choose... | Because... |
|---|---|---|
| The lowest listed price in this set | Mitutoyo 500-196-30 New 0-6 inch 150mm Absolute Encoder Digital Caliper | It is priced at USD 45.26. |
| A 6-inch caliper with the 500-196-30 model number | 500-196-30 Mitutoyo 150mm Absolute Digital Caliper | It is listed at USD 45.57 with the same model number. |
| An 8-inch caliper at a mid-range price | Mitutoyo 500-197-30 200mm/8 inch Absolute Digital Digimatic Vernier Caliper | It is listed at USD 110.00. |
| An 8-inch caliper with output | MITUTOYO Digital Caliper, 500-172-30 8-inch/200MM AOS ABS with Output | It is the only title that mentions output. |
Product notes
Mitutoyo 500-196-30 New 0-6 inch 150mm Absolute Encoder Digital Caliper
At USD 45.26, this is the lowest listed price in the group. It covers a 0 to 6 inch range, which is the same as 150mm, and the described resolution is 0.0005 inch. The description also notes a large LCD and battery operation. The limitation is that it is specified with SPC output as none, so it is best for direct manual measurements. If you need to send readings to a computer or recorder, this model will not be the one you want.
500-196-30 Mitutoyo 150mm Absolute Digital Caliper
Listed at USD 45.57, this is just 31 cents more than the least expensive option. It carries the same 500-196-30 model number and the same 0 to 150mm/6-inch measuring range, and it is described as new. For someone who wants a compact caliper with that exact model number, it is a direct alternative. The limitation is price: at USD 45.57, it costs 31 cents more than the other 500-196-30 listing, so you get essentially the same model number and range for a slightly higher listed price.
Mitutoyo 500-197-30 200mm/8 inch Absolute Digital Digimatic Vernier Caliper
At USD 110.00, this is the mid-priced choice. It steps up to 200mm/8 inches of range, which matters if your workpieces are larger than 150mm. The title points to an absolute digital readout and the Digimatic Vernier format. The limitation is price relative to the 6-inch options: you pay USD 64.74 more than the cheapest caliper to gain the extra 2 inches of capacity. If you only measure small parts, the 6-inch models give you a lower-priced path.
MITUTOYO Digital Caliper, 500-172-30 8-inch/200MM AOS ABS with Output
At USD 153.30, this is the highest listed price in the comparison. It is also the only model whose title includes the phrase with Output, which makes it the natural pick when readings need to go beyond the display. It offers the same 8-inch/200mm range as the 500-197-30, and the product details include the MPN and UPC. The limitation is cost: it is USD 43.30 more than the other 8-inch model and USD 108.04 more than the cheapest option. If you do not need output, the lower-priced models avoid that extra expense.
Final recommendation by use case
If you want the lowest listed price and 6-inch range is enough, the Mitutoyo 500-196-30 at USD 45.26 is the simplest pick. If you prefer a 6-inch caliper with the 500-196-30 model number, the 500-196-30 Mitutoyo at USD 45.57 is close behind. For 8-inch capacity without output, the Mitutoyo 500-197-30 at USD 110.00 gives you the extra range at a mid price. And if output matters for your dimensional metrology machine inspection work, the MITUTOYO Digital Caliper, 500-172-30 at USD 153.30 is the one to choose.
