Choosing your next caliper for dimensional metrology machine inspection often comes down to output: do you need a measurement tool that sends data to a collector, or do you mainly need a reliable digital caliper at a practical price? Two new Mitutoyo models answer that question in different ways, and the price gap between them is meaningful.
Quick verdict
If output capability is not part of your routine, the Mitutoyo Japan 500-197-30 is the sensible pick: it gives you an Absolute AOS Digimatic digital caliper at USD 55.80. If you want the 'with Output' designation explicit, the MITUTOYO Digital Caliper 500-172-30 is the one to choose at USD 153.30.
How they compare
| Point | Mitutoyo Japan 500-197-30 | MITUTOYO Digital Caliper 500-172-30 |
|---|---|---|
| Listed price | USD 55.80 | USD 153.30 |
| Price signal | ||
| Range | 0-200mm / 0-8 inch | 8-inch / 200mm |
| Output wording | Absolute AOS Digimatic | AOS ABS with Output |
| Condition | New | New |
Where each product wins
- Mitutoyo Japan 500-197-30 is the value pick. It is the lower-priced caliper and the one that includes its original case and box, making it easy to keep protected between inspections.
- MITUTOYO Digital Caliper 500-172-30 is the output pick. The model name explicitly includes 'with Output,' so it is the more direct choice for data-capture workflows.
Product notes
Mitutoyo Japan 500-197-30
The Mitutoyo Japan 500-197-30 is the caliper to grab for everyday bench work. It combines a digital caliper format with Absolute AOS Digimatic operation and comes with its original case and box. That makes it a practical, self-contained shop tool. The reason to reach for it is that you get a complete, protected caliper at the lower end of the price spread. The trade-off is that you will need to look at the higher-priced model if explicit output labeling is a requirement for your workflow.
MITUTOYO Digital Caliper 500-172-30
Output is the reason to pick the MITUTOYO Digital Caliper 500-172-30. The model name spells out 'AOS ABS with Output,' so there is no ambiguity about its intended use with data capture. It is also a new Mitutoyo digital caliper, so you are staying in the same brand as the lower-priced model. On the downside, it sits at the upper end of the price spread, so you will want to be sure output is a real part of your workflow before spending the extra.
Final choice by use case
- Everyday inspection and bench measurement: Mitutoyo Japan 500-197-30. You get the digital caliper, case, and box at the lower price.
- Connected measurement and data capture: MITUTOYO Digital Caliper 500-172-30. The 'with Output' label makes it the direct choice.
- When you are weighing the two: Let the workflow decide. If output is not a requirement, the lower-priced model handles the job; if it is, the output-labeled caliper earns its higher price.
