A depth micrometer, as the name suggests, is used to measure depth. It is a very sensitive tool generally used by machinists and engineers for measuring the depth of holes, bores, shoulders, slots, etc. However, a general rule, to get the best measurement result of depth measurement, you have to pick the best depth micrometer and that’s the reason of this article.
Actually, you can use a vernier depth calipers to measure depth of holes. The advantage of depth micrometer is it offers you better accuracy and precision than a depth caliper.
In a basic depth micrometer, you get a moving spindle, the base part, a ratchet that you rotate to get the depth reading, a barrel/sleeve with a scale (main scale/ barrel scale), and a thimble with an auxiliary scale that rotates when you rotate the ratchet. You also get a thimble lock screw to lock the reading of the micrometer.
Using a depth micrometer is pretty similar to that of a micrometer screw gauge except for the fact that its main scale is reversed and the zero of the main scale is on the right side. To measure the depth of a hole using a depth micrometer, gently insert the provided rod in the base hole and turn the dial to descend the rod inside the sleeve until its end touches the base.
Top 10 Best Depth Micrometers in 2025
| Products | Pictures | Accuracy | Special Feature | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Starrett 440Z-6L Vernier Depth Gauge |  | ±.0001” | Hardened and ground base measuring surfaces | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
| 2. Brown & Sharpe 599-603-143-3 |  | ±0.003 mm | Satin chrome finish for glare free reading | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
| 3. Brown & Sharpe TESA 60.30069 |  | ±.0001" (0.003 mm) | Digital interface | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
| 4. Accusize Industrial Tools 2025-4201 |  | ±0.003 mm | Clear and microfine graduations | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
| 5. Fowler 52-225-226-0 |  | ±0.5% | Comes with six interchangeable rods | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
| 6. Mitutoyo 329-351-30 |  | .0001" (0.001 mm) | Offers wide measuring range | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
| 7. Mitutoyo 129-132 |  | ±3µm | Adjustable measuring rods | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
| 8. Fowler 54-225-456-0 |  | .00016″ (0.004 mm) | Auto switch off LCD display | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
| 9. Starrett 449AZ-3R |  | ±.0001" | Ideal for narrow recessions | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
| 10. Mitutoyo 128-105 |  | ±0.003 mm | Satin chrome finish | CHECK THE PRICE HERE! |
1. Starrett 440Z-6L Vernier Depth Micrometer [Best Overall]
So, the first depth micrometer that we have on the list is from the Starrett brand which is known for producing high-quality and high-accuracy products. You get 4 adjustable measurement rods in the list that cover the range of up to 9 inches. The resolution of this micrometer is about 0.001mm which results in providing very precise results.
The base of the micrometer and the measuring surfaces are ground, hardened, and lapped which results in added durability and are the indicators that this depth micrometer is a premium tool.
Pros:
- Ring type nut to easily secure readings
- High Accuracy
- High resolution
Cons:
- You have to manually calculate the measurements from the readings
2. Brown & Sharpe 599-603-143-3 Vernier Depth Gauge Micrometer
Our next depth micrometer in the list is the Brown & Sharpe 599-603-143-3, which can be a great choice for you if you are looking for a tool that offers you a very high resolution of .0001 inches. The vernier scale of this micrometer comes with a very fine and crisp graduation that makes reading much easier.
Furthermore, the hardened base of this depth micrometer ensures uniform pressure on the surface and the fraction thimble ensures that you get accurate readings. Along with this micrometer you get three 0.125” measuring rods that are made from stainless steel.
Pros:
- Satin chrome finish for no glare
- 4 inch long base for uniform pressure
- Comes with a wooden case for extra care
Cons:
- No lock nut
3. Brown & Sharpe TESA 60.30069 Swiss Made Digital Depth Micrometer
If you are someone who absolutely hates doing precise calculations with extra consideration then this one’s for you. It can be a great choice when you want to be quick. The Brown & Sharpe TESA 60.30069 Digital Micromaster Depth Gauge is a digital depth micrometer and comes with an LCD display that gives you the result on the spot without any complicated calculation.
You get a range of 7 inches on this micrometer along with the U.S metrics. As it is a digital micrometer, you also get a 3-volt lithium battery with it. You get a resolution of 0.001mm on this tool.
Pros:
- Very easy to use
- Battery included
- Comes with multiple rods
Cons:
- The display unit is made from plastic
4. Accusize Industrial Tools Tools 2025-4201 Base Depth Micrometer
Accusize Industrial Tools depth micrometer is a premium quality tool that comes with 6 measurement rods that give you the range of about 6 inches. You get a wide range of measurements with the resolution of 0.001 mm. The satin chrome finish prevents the reflection of light on the graduation so you don’t have any hurdle while taking the readings. A fitted wooden case is included in the package.
Pros:
- Quick and easy adjustment
- Ideal for small holes
- Accurate results
Cons:
- No digital display
5. Fowler 52-225-226-0 Digit Counter Depth Micrometer
The Fowler 52-225-226-0, Digit Counter Depth Micrometer comes with a digital counter along with 6 measurement rods, each of them is 0.176”. They offer you a range of 6 inches and resolution of 0.001 mm. The satin chrome finish makes this micrometer wear resistant. You also get a wooden case in the package. The manufacturer offers you a 1 year warranty with tools.
Pros:
- Quick readings
- Locking clamp
- 1 year warranty
Cons:
- The display unit is made from plastic
6. Mitutoyo 329-351-30 Depth Micrometer Interchangeable Rod
Our next choice is from a well-known brand which offers a wide range of quality tools. It is the Mitutoyo 329-351-30 DMC4-12″MX Depth Micrometer with a resolution of 0.001 mm. It is the best choice if you want to cover deeper holes as its 12 rods cover a range up to 12 inches. The display unit is digital and does not require much effort. The battery for the display unit is included in the package.
Pros:
- Quick and easy use
- Easily interchangeable rods
- Covers wide range
Cons:
- No warranty
7. Mitutoyo 129-132 Depth Micrometer
Our next pick is Mitutoyo 129-132 which is also from the same brand and hence is a premium product. But this one is an analog depth micrometer. You get 5 rods that can easily be interchanged and cover 6 inches of range. It is covered with a satin chrome premium finish that makes it more durable. The 4 inch base uniformly distributes the pressure for more accurate readings.
Pros:
- Multiple rods
- Satin chrome finish
- High Accuracy
Cons:
- Case is made from plastic
8. Fowler 54-225-456-0 IP54 Digital Depth Micrometer
The Fowler 54-225-456-0 digital depth micrometer also comes with an electronic counter with a digital display unit that is resistant to water and dust (IP65 rating). The microlapped 4 inch base allows you to take repeated measurements with greater accuracy. You get an inch and metric units on the micrometer with the resolution of 0.001mm and 0.0005 inches. The easy to adjust 6 interchangeable rods come with a diameter of 0.176 inches.
Pros:
- Hardened and ground steel for added durability
- Quick and easy measurements
- 2 lithium batteries included
Cons:
- No warranty
9. Starrett 449AZ-3R Vernier Depth Gauge Micrometer with Non-Rotating Blade
Moving on to the next one, we have the Starrett 449AZ-3R Vernier Depth Gauge which comes with a resolution of 0.001 mm and a range of 3 inches. You get a ⅛ inch long and 1/64 inch wide blade that is ideal for taking measurements of very narrow holes with accuracy. The baes are hardened, ground and lapped to make them sturdier. You also get a protective case in the package.
Pros:
- High Accuracy
- Quick to adjust
- Ideal for narrow spaces
Cons:
- No digital display unit
10. Mitutoyo 128-105 Vernier Depth Gauge Micrometer
Lastly, we have the Mitutoyo 128-105 which offers a resolution of 0.001 mm and range of 1 inch. You get a single rod with it with a diameter of 0.175 inches. You also get a ratchet stop on it for uniform pressure and a rod clamp that gives it extra stability. The base of this depth micrometer is 2.5 inches long. You also get a satin chrome finish on this micrometer to prevent glare and take the readings easily.
Pros:
- Comes with ratchet stop and rod clamp
- Ideal for smaller holes and bores
- High accuracy
Cons:
- The measuring range is short
Things To Consider Buying A Depth Micrometer
1. Type
When it comes to the type, you will see two types of depth micrometers in the market that are the analog depth micrometers and the digital depth micrometers. The analog ones are very accurate and easy to use but if you are someone who finds it very hard to be really careful and slowly take readings then you should go for digital type as they are very easy to read and you don’t have to go for the whole calculations process after taking the readings.
2. Accuracy
The use of a depth micrometer entirely relies on the accuracy that it provides. If it is not very precise then you will not get precise results and this might end up in causing major failures. To avoid that, always check the accuracy of the micrometer before buying it so you don’t have to encounter such issues.
3. Number of Measuring Rods (Measuring Range)
Along with most of the depth micrometers, you will get more than one measuring rod. All of them have different sizes. Depending on the use of the depth micrometer and your requirements, you can choose how many measuring rods you need with it. Also consider the size of the rod provided with it while getting a depth micrometer.
F.A.Q.
Q: How to check the accuracy of a depth micrometer?
A: To check its accuracy, you can inspect or calibrate a depth micrometer by a set of gauge blocks. That means, you check several depths. Make sure that the gauge blocks are calibrated as well so that you are comparing with accurate gauge blocks as well.
Q: How to take care of depth micrometer?
A: Things such as wiping the mic before using, regular oiling, storing it in correct temperature and humidity, battery removal during long storage, regular calibration, stored in a good case, etc are some micrometer maintenance practices you can do to keep this precision measuring tool long last.
Conclusion
We gave you a brief idea about its use along with the comprehensive reviews of the top ten depth micrometers. We hope you found this guide really helpful and you can now easily choose a depth micrometer for yourself. If you are still not sure about which one to buy then we have some recommendations for you.
As the best choice overall, we would recommend the Starrett 440Z-6L Vernier Depth Gauge as it is very accurate, comes with multiple measuring rods and a hardened base ground which makes it sturdy. If you are in search of a digital depth micrometer that can help you get the depth readings quickly then we would recommend the Brown & Sharpe TESA 60.30069 Digital Micrometer Depth Gauge as an affordable option you should choose the Accusize Industrial Tools 2025-4201 Depth Micrometer. It comes with a satin chrome finish, and is very accurate as well.