13 best indicators

Indicators in the context of dimensional measurement, test, measurement, and inspection, as well as industrial and scientific applications, refer to devices or instruments used to display information about a particular measurement, condition, or parameter. These indicators are essential tools in various fields for monitoring, quality control, and data collection. Here are some key aspects related to indicators:

Dimensional Measurement: In dimensional measurement, indicators are used to display measurements of length, distance, or displacement. They are often part of measurement systems that include sensors or probes to collect data and then provide a visual or digital readout of the measured value. This is crucial in fields like manufacturing and engineering for ensuring precision and quality control.
Types of Indicators:
- Dial Indicators: These are mechanical devices that use a needle or pointer to display measurements on a dial. They are often used in machining and alignment tasks.
- Digital Indicators: Digital indicators provide measurements in numerical form on a digital display. They are known for their accuracy and ease of reading.
- Pressure Indicators: In industrial and scientific applications, pressure indicators are used to measure and display pressure levels in various systems.
- Temperature Indicators: These indicators are used to measure and display temperature readings and are common in scientific research and industrial processes.
Industrial Applications:
- In manufacturing, indicators are used for quality control and to ensure that products meet specific dimensional specifications.
- They are also used in alignment tasks, such as aligning machine parts or checking the flatness of surfaces.
- In the automotive industry, indicators are employed for measuring engine parameters and alignment during assembly.
Scientific Applications:
- In scientific research, indicators play a crucial role in experiments and data collection by providing real-time measurements of various parameters like temperature, pressure, and voltage.
- In laboratories, indicators are used to monitor and maintain precise conditions during experiments.
Calibration: Indicators must be regularly calibrated to ensure their accuracy and reliability. Calibration involves comparing the indicator's readings to a known standard and making necessary adjustments.
Data Collection: Some indicators are equipped with data logging capabilities, allowing them to record measurements over time.This is valuable for trend analysis and quality assurance.
Digital vs. Analog: The choice between digital and analog (dial) indicators depends on the specific application. Digital indicators are favored for their precision and ease of integration with data systems, while analog indicators may be preferred for their simplicity and durability.
Sensors: Indicators often work in conjunction with sensors or probes that collect data from the environment or the object being measured. These sensors provide input to the indicator, which then displays the measured values.

In summary, indicators are essential tools in dimensional measurement, quality control, and scientific research. They provide real-time feedback on various parameters, helping to ensure accuracy and precision in a wide range of industrial and scientific processes.

Below you can find our editor's choice of the best indicators on the market

Mitutoyo 513-402-10E DIAL TI, BAS, STD 0.03", 0.0002" Accuracy, 0.0005", White

Mitutoyo

Based on 108 reviews Check latest price

Product description

DIAL TEST INDICATOR, BASIC SET, STANDARD, . 03 IN, . 0005 IN GRAD The QR code is used by the factory to accurately match the inspection certificate to the test indicator.

Contact point effective length is printed on the dial face
Increased impact resistance and durability of gears and bezel
Inspection certificate included with bidirectional evaluation
Increased scratch-resistance of crystal

User questions & answers

Question:	Does this include a case of some kind
Answer:	Yes, it comes with a plastic case.
Question:	Does this indicator come with a carbide contact point or just a standard contact point
Answer:	Standard carbide contact point provided
Question:	Here is the Mitutoyo 513-402-10E manufactured
Answer:	The face of the indicator says made in Japan.
Question:	what inside the package included
Answer:	The Mitutoyo 513-402-10E includes the "basic" set (.079" contact point, knurled clamp ring, 3/8" stem).

Anytime Tools Magnetic Base Dial Digital Test Indicator Holder 3D Central Locking 176 lb Heavy Duty

Anytime Tools

Based on 32 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Set your indicator into any desired position with unique 3-dimensional central locking mechanism. Fine adjustment.

Features:

Can accommodate American Standard 3/8" stem indicator on test indicator dovetail
Sealed system
3 dimensional holder has single central locking mechanism.
One Turning knob to release all degrees of freedom joints.
Fine Adjustment
Magnet has 176 lbs.(80 Kg)Static holding power
V-Groove base allows mounting it on cylindrical surfaces
On/Off magnetic base
Articulated arms are approximately 4.25" each, total distance is approximately 8.00"

Can accommodate American Standard 3/8" stem indicator on test indicator dovetail
176 lbs. (80 Kg) Static Hold Magnetic Power. On/Off magnetic base
3 dimensional holder has single central locking mechanism.
V-Grooved base for ease of mount on cylindrical Parts
Articulated arms are approximately 4.25" each, total distance is approximately 8.00"

Clockwise Tools DIMR-0105 Dial Indicator Gage Gauge and Magnetic Base 0-1 inch Measuring Tool …

Based on 367 reviews Check latest price

Measuring range: 0-1"; Resolution: 0.001"
Flat Back or Lug Back Option Included (hole size 6.5mm); Stem diameter: 3/8" and dial diameter: 2"; Twist and locked bezel, no need a tightening screw and easy to adjust the scale position; Featured anti dust cap
Pro grade; Smoothy movement; Featured carbide anvil ball
2 Magnetic faces available; Max pull 176 lbs (30mm and up thickness metal countertop/surface required for 176lbs pull)
Manufacturer Certificate Included; 100% satisfy guaranteed

User questions & answers

Question:	Can this plunger be replaced with a longer one
Answer:	Yes
Question:	Will magnet attach to visegrips? Trying to check prop shaft on outboard aluminum lower unit
Answer:	Hi. Please try to put more force to twist the switch because some times the dry lube will stop the movement. If it still does not work, please contact us to claim the warranty and we can send you another one immediately
Question:	The tip is replaceable
Answer:	It does not.
Question:	The base is sitting on a metal surface but the switch will not turn to "on" even with great force applie. Am I missing something or is this defective
Answer:	Approx. .909 long x .375 dia.

Product features

Clockwise Tools DIMR-0105 Dial Indicator & Magnetic Base

Premium quality digital indicator and magnetic base.
Highly recommended for home DIY using as well as professional using.
Magnetic max pull 176lbs
Manufacturer calibration cert included
1 YEAR WARR ANTY

What Is Included

1 x DICR-0105 Dial Indicator
1 x Magnetic Base
1 x Lug back
1 x Factory Calibration Cert; 1 x Durable Case

Dial Indicator Install

Loosen screw A and make sure the hole has enough space for dial indicator stem
Insert dial indicator and tighten screw A. Please do not tighten too much avoid damage the dial indicator
Adjust screw B to a appropriate position

Magnetic Base Adjustment

Loosen screw A and adjust 2 bars and dial indicator to a appropriate position
Tighten screw A to lock A B C at the same time

2 Magnetic Faces Avaliable

Put the magnetic base on the metal counter top

Activate Magnetic Base

Turn switch On/Off to Activate/Deactivate the magnetic base

Magnetic Base with Fine Adjustment and SAE Dial Test Indicator with 0.0005: Resolution (half a thousandth), 1" Travel, Accuracy 0.001" per 1" Mag Base MBDI

Taylor Toolworks

Based on 413 reviews Check latest price

Product description

This is a magnetic base AND dial indicator. Features: TEST INDICATOR 1) Body is made of machined anodized aluminum and NOT plastic 2) Vertical lug back configuration 3) 1 inch of total travel with graduations in 0.0005 (that's half a thousandth) per line 4) Accuracy guaranteed to 0.001 per 1 inch of travel 5) Each indicator comes with inspection certificate 6) Spindle rack pinions and gear trains are made of high quality steel components ensuring long life 7) Does not come with plastic case, MAGNETIC BASE 1) Base weighs 3 pounds has a built-in super strong magnet with 176 pounds (80 Kg) of holding power 2) Magnet has an On/Off switch which easily and quickly engages / releases magnet 3) Base has V-groove on bottom for mounting on cylindrical surfaces 4) Fully adjustable chrome plated two-arm design 5) Precision fine adjustment knob for precise positioning 6) Accepts nearly all AGD dial and test indicator mounts 7) Overall height 9 inches 8) The vertical arm extends 7 inches from the base. The cross arm is 6 inches in length 9) Does not come with plastic case

Mag base with super strong magnet with 176 pounds (80 Kg) of holding power
Mag base with fine adjustment knob for precise positioning
Dial indicator with 0.0005" Resolution (half a thousandth) and 1.00" total travel
Dial indicator with accuracy guaranteed to 0.001" per 1"
Does not come with plastic case

User questions & answers

Question:	Hi. Can this combo be made with a metric indicador
Answer:	You place the tip (spindle, gauge head, contact point) of the dial indicator on the work piece. Adjust the the dial indicator so the needle spins a few times as the tip is depressed more. You want room for the measurement to move either way (in or out) . Next loosen the bezel clamp hand screw that prevents the bezel (the blue colored part of the indicator that also holds the clear dial cover) from moving. Gently turn the bezel until the 0 (zero) on the dial is near dial needle. Then use the adjustment knob on the magnetic base arm for fine adjustment of the dial indicator. tighten the bezel clamp to keep the bezel from moving.
Question:	Can this be used to measure the exact wobbling ( run out )of a drill bit
Answer:	No , it does come in a well protected box.
Question:	I just bought this item and I am checking to see how to zero out the unit
Answer:	Yes, as long as you get a tip with a 4-48 thread
Question:	Does it come with a protective storage case
Answer:	It will most likely be shock proof if you get one that is jeweled if you go to Mitutoyo's website you can look up the specifications in their catalog and it will tell you the specific number for that indicator

KHCRAFT Professional Dial Test Indicator 0-0.03"x0.0005" Steel Hardened All Metal Components with 2 Steel Dovetail Clamps 3/8'' and 5/32'' in Storage Case

Know-How Craft Ltd.

Based on 331 reviews Check latest price

Range: 0-0.03" graduation: 0.0005"
Made of steel hardened with all metal components, durable satin chrome finish
with 2 Steel Dovetail Clamps 3/8'' and 5/32'', dovetail mount on top and back and front for all-around positioning, 2 ways to fix on the magnetic base: stem (3/8" or 5/32") or dovetail (top or back or front)
All finished dial test indicators are inspected 100% piece by piece to control the accuracy
Packed in storage case; Please visit our store www.amazon.com/khcraft for the matching magnetic base

User questions & answers

Question:	Hi What diameter is the ball contact point
Answer:	5/64“
Question:	Will this work with a universal magnetic base
Answer:	generally speaking, yes, this test indicator works with all magnetic bases with 3/8" or 5/32" clamping hole.
Question:	Where does it make
Answer:	Do not see on product were made but had for a few months now and works fine Not Jeweled but for for the price works like intended. Even pick up a 2nd one for anouther guy in the shop. No problems here.
Question:	Is this jeweled
Answer:	Not jeweled.

Product features

Range and Graduation

Range: 0-0.03" graduation: 0.0005"

All Metal Components

Made of steel hardened with all metal components
Durable satin chrome finish

Dovetail Clamps and Mount

with 2 Steel Dovetail Clamps 3/8'' and 5/32''
Dovetail mount on top and back and front for all-around positioning

QC and Fix

All finished dial test indicators are inspected 100% piece by piece to control the accuracy
2 ways to fix on the magnetic base: stem (3/8" or 5/32") or dovetail (top or back or front)

Matching Magnetic Base Available

Please visit our store www.amazon.com/khcraft for the matching magnetic base

Growing Old in a Turbulent World: Indicators (Lectures)

Check latest price

Shars Co-Ax Coaxial Centering Indicator Dial Test Complete Set.0005" Graduations, Enclose Body 303-3300

Shars

Based on 8 reviews Check latest price

BRAND: Shars Tool
Indicator body completely enclose the indicator to provide more rigidity compared to other imports
For centering a fixture within .0002" of true center
Operates at any angle, vertical or horizontal, internal or external
1.6" diameter indicator face remains stationary while the machine spindle rotates

Product features

Shars Tool Co-Axial Center Indicator Set

Operates at any angle, vertical or horizontal, internal or external
Indicator remains in fixed position facing the operator while the spindle rotates
Internal capacity range is 5/32 to 12" diameter and external capacity range is 0 to 12" diameter depending on the feeler.
Feeler Ball: 1/8" diameter
Capacity internal: 5/32 to 12" diameter. External 0 to 12" diameter.

SIMPLE AND ACCURATE

Coaxial indicator provides a simple and accurate method of finding the center on a bore or cylinder of a workpiece or fixture in a milling machine or lathe. The face of the indicator remains stationary with the help of the stopping rod while the machine spindle rotates in low RPM. Adjust the table position in both X and Y axis to reduce the travel of the dial indicator. When the dial hand is stationary, then the center of the location is found.

Türlen Test Dial Indicator 7 Jewels High Precision 0.0005" 0-15-0

Based on 341 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Professional Precision Tool!

Easy-to-read 1-3/16" diameter face, 0.0005" graduation, 5/32" and 3/8" diameter posts with dovetail clamp, and automatic reversing. Meets federal specifications for accuracy. Has .030 travel and a hair trigger response to the lightest pressure.

Features:

Easy to read 1-3/16'' white face with black markings
7 JEWELS
Crisp graduations
Durable satin chrome finish
Graduations: 0.0005'' per line
Includes a padded case

Easy to read 1-3/16'' white face with black markings
7 JEWELS
Crisp graduations 0.0005'' per line
Durable satin chrome finish
Includes a padded case

User questions & answers

Question:	Will this dovetail fit on a bridgeport quill clamp
Answer:	No
Question:	Where can i get new tips for this indicator
Answer:	You can get a turlen indicator tip set on E-bay 13.00 to 14.00 dollars free shipping. Go to E-bay and type in replacement tips for a turlen dial indicator. Hope this answers your question.
Question:	Can you move the pin to a different angle? Or have to use dovetails
Answer:	You have to use the dovetails and the dove tail pin in order to hold the instrument. There is three spots on the indicator to mount the dovetail pin. The dial indicator pin can also move in order to reach a certain spit you are trying to dial in.
Question:	Where is this item manufactured
Answer:	As the previous poster said there is nothing on the tool or the case saying where it is made. I Googled "TÜRLEN" and came up with a town in Switzerland. But I would also guess China.

Triton 1" Dial Indicator 0.001" Graduation Travel Lug Back White Face

Based on 370 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Triton 1" Dial Indicator 0.001" Graduation Travel Lug Back White Face

Our part # ALL-52000
Measuring range: 0-1" and reading: 0-100. Lug back.
Stem diameter: 3/8"; and dial diameter: 2"
Manufactured according to ASME/ANSI standards
Rack and contact point made of hardened stainless steel. Jeweled movement..

User questions & answers

Question:	Is the face of the dial difficult to adjust
Answer:	they are removable with 4 screws, but do not come with a plain back plate.
Question:	Is it made in China
Answer:	It's a lug back with a 1/4" hole.
Question:	Is the rear lug plate removable
Answer:	Any indicator will work with this base
Question:	Does it have a flat back or a collar thingy
Answer:	Because of the flutes on the drill shaft it wouldn't work.

Noga DG10533 Standard Holder with Mag Base-176 Ibs-Hold Power

NOGA

Based on 113 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Noga DG10533 Magnetic Base 176 lb. Holding Power Dial & Test Indicator Holder

User questions & answers

Question:	How flat and square is the base
Answer:	It is not it’s dark
Question:	Can i use the noga fa1500 universal fine adjustment swivel clamp with this instead of the supplied indicator clamp
Answer:	Absolutely
Question:	Does this unit have any plastic parts on it? IF so what are they
Answer:	Well Bonnie, all I can say is that I hope your not planning to bake cupcakes with this brake grease.🙂

Loose Wheel Nut Indicator, 19mm, Plastic

CHECKPOINT

Based on 1 reviews Check latest price

Product description

'Loose Wheel Nut Indicator, Overall Length 2-1/4 In., Bolt Hole Spacing 19mm, Material Plastic, Used For 19mm Hex Nut Fitting, Visual Inspection of Lug Nuts That May Have Become Loose to Prevent Wheel Offs'

Kasa Smart HS200 Light Switch by TP-Link, Single Pole, Needs Neutral Wire, 2.4Ghz Wi-Fi Light Switch Works with Alexa and Google Assistant, UL Certified, 1-Pack, White

Kasa Smart

Based on 18 reviews Check latest price

Product description

Control your lights, ceiling fans, and other fixtures from anywhere with the Kasa Smart Wi-Fi Light Switch. The smart switch replaces any standard light switch, and connects to your home Wi-Fi in no time through the free Kasa app. Kasa also lets you manage connected fixtures with your smartphone or tablet, including setting schedules, timers and countdowns. For added convenience, you can use your voice to control when paired with Amazon Alexa, Google assistant and Microsoft Cortana. Protocols supported: IEEE 802.11b/g/n; System requirement: Android 4.1 or higher iOS 9.0 or higher; Wireless type: 2.4GHz 1T1R.

Easy guided install: Neutral wire is required, standard wall plate size. No need to understand complex switch wiring or master vs auxiliary switch configurations; The Kasa app guides you through easy step by step installation. Need 2.4GHz Wi-Fi connection
Control from anywhere: Monitor your light status. Turn electronics on and off from anywhere with your smartphone using the Kasa app, whether you are at home, in the office or on vacation
Voice control: Enjoy the hands-free convenience of controlling the lights in your home with your voice via Amazon Alexa or Google Assistant; perfect for times when your hands are full or entering a dark room
Scheduling: Use timer or countdown schedules to set your smart switch to automatically turn on and off while you're home or away. Enable ‘away mode’ to randomly switch on and off to trick potential intruders
Trusted and reliable: Designed and developed in silicon valley, Kasa is trusted by over 4 million users. UL certified for safety use. 2-year warranty

Product features

Set Schedules

Automate your connected fixtures to follow your daily schedule and preferences.

Voice Control

Use simple voice commands to control your switch with Alexa or Google Assistant.

Control from Anywhere

Control your lights, ceiling fans, and other fixtures from anywhere via the Kasa Smart app.

Clockwise Tools DIGR-0105 Electronic Digital Dial Indicator Gage Gauge Inch/Metric Conversion 0-1 Inch/25.4 mm with Back Lug Auto Off Featured Measuring Tool

Clockwise Tools Inc.

Based on 706 reviews Check latest price

Inch and Metric Reading Function
Extra Large LCD Screen: 1.6" x 0.7"; Auto Off after 5-7 mins, remember zero position
Flat Back or Lug Back Option Included (hole size 6.5mm); Stem Diameter: 3/8"; UNF 4-48 Threaded Tip
Measure Range: 0-1"/25.4mm; Graduation: 0.0005"/0.01 mm; Accuracy: ±0.001"/0.03 mm
Featured RS232 Data transfer port, must connect with “Clockwise Tools DTCR-01” Cable (NOT INCLUDED) to make data transfer to PC. DO NOT CONNECT WITH REGULAR USB CABLE; Professional Certificate Included