Who Makes the Best Optical Comparator: 6 Options

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We always become choosy about selecting the measuring tools, especially in the manufacturing industry. Yes, we talk about the optical comparator that is essential to measure dimensions of the many manufacturing parts using illumination, lenses, or mirror. It provides you with accurate info.

Anyway, there are numerous optical comparators available in the market, but all of them don’t suit everyone. Thereby we will talk with the top 6 best optical comparators.

These are taken after certain studies. The studies contain download volume analysis, user review analysis, analysis of ratings by the users, etc

From the six products, Mitutoyo 64PKA086 PH-A14 Optical Measuring Horizontal Profile Projector is the best-selling output.

What Is an Optical Comparator Used for

An optical comparator is used for measuring as well as inspecting the dimensions of the manufactured components. It is easy to get an accurate measurement within a short time. By using lenses, illumination sources, and mirrors, this device works to magnify the images and 2-D measurement.

This measuring instrument is quite similar to the optical microscopes. Both have the same measurement principles. Need to place the target on the stage, then a light shines. For this reason, the shadow can be projected on the screen.

Our Top Picks of the Optical Comparator

Optical comparators or profile projectors are extremely good for calculating extents easily. We show here the 6 best optical comparators and more information about this matter. So, don’t waste your time. Just see the main point and select the best one according to your demand.

Mitutoyo 64PKA086 PH-A14 Optical Measuring Horizontal Profile Projector 

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Specifications

Model Number	64PKA086
Display Size	14″/355mm
Length	48.8″/1,239mm
Height	45.6″/1,158mm
Magnification	10X
Power	120V AC
Width	24.1″/612mm
Item Width	400 lbs per EA
Descriptions	Built-In Linear Scale

This optical comparator is not only a top-quality measuring device but one that ensures lifetime uses and the best investment features. The PH-A14 Profile projector is a bench-top model and uses a smooth optical system. Perfect for thread pitch measurement with a 14″ screen. 

The combination of workmanship and lens technology provides crisp and glossy images that are checked and free from error. Also, it offers KA-12 Counter, 174-173A DRO Counter, and 64AAB149 Counter Tray along with inverted images on the day-bright screen. It has a considerable x, y work stage travel which are 8-inch, 4-inch for providing users satisfaction. 

Y-axis can handle new locations where the high accuracy working stage helps to improve the operation with ease. Most importantly, its workload capacity is up to 100 Ibs. Standard 10X, 20X, 50X, and 100X are included magnifications. 

Pros

• Easy to handle from start to finish;
• More effective;
• Worth in a price;
• Includes different magnification;
• High load capacity.

Cons

• Not high quality.

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Starrett Kinemetric VB400-M2E-10X Vertical Benchtop Optical Comparator

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Specifications

Model Number	VB400-M2E-10X
System Type	Bench Top
Screen Diameter	16″ or 400mm
X – Y Measuring Range	8″ x 4″ or 200 x 100mm
Focus Range	4″ or 100mm
Work Stage	16″ ×9″
Item Weight	380 pounds
Load Capacity Maximum	50Ibs

The VB400-M2E-10X vertical benchtop optical system can be a perfect solution for non-contact measurement. It comes with numerous characteristics. Its 16″ screen, 8″ X-axis, and 4″ Y-Axis travel with fine adjustment system is fairly different & awesome than other optical comparators. Due to the reasonable price along with high working capacity, any person who is a hobbyist or professional can use this vertical benchtop. 

Even as a smart user, you can’t ignore the fast traverse, zero backlashes, and quick change bayonet fitting lense that support work smoothly. Another thing is that this device provides great performance in measuring critical requirements. In this case, its powerful Quadra-Chek or MetLogix software control systems aid to measure properly. 

It is quite easy to use this tool. Some exceptional things are the wide range of dimensional inspection applications, fantastic lighting, and accurate work stage (16″ × 9″). This is because you get sharp and bright images with ease. The vertical systems are also good to measure the soft plastic, electrical components, and thin stampings.

Pros

• A highly accurate work stage;
• Simple to use;
• Cost-effective;
• The 16″ screen is completely usable.

Cons

• Not easy for beginners.

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Radical Profile Projector Optical Comparator 

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Specifications

Screen Size	250mm
Table Area	110x110mm
Stage Movement	35x35mm
Manufacturer	‎Radical
Model Number	RPP250DM
Illumination	150W
Magnification	10X

If you are willing to get a digital profile projector, you can turn into the well-known brand ‎Radical. This optical comparator comes with 250mm with 360 Degree Division. The main feature is that it is light in weight & the most powerful device to measure fast. 

From 0 to 25mm screen digital micrometers as well as 90 degrees cross hairline is standard for working smoothly. Most suitable for measures linear and angular. It has 360-degree divisions 6mm LC Dia 62mm rotary stage & standard stage movement. 

There is no problem handling it just because of portability. Like other famous profile projectors, it contains 10X magnification. The unique feature is a noiseless built-in cooling fan that is superb for most components and machinery. The high-quality optical lens is perfect for all users. So, you can use this tool with confidence.

Pros

• Portable;
• Screen size is perfect to work properly;
• Standard components;
• Lightweight.

Cons

• Sometimes customers don’t like the more portable device.

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Fowler 12 Basic Bench Top Optical Comparator 

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Specifications

Model Number	53-900-000
Lens	10X, 20X & 40X.
Resolution	.0005”/.01mm
Indicator	0—1”/25mm

This 12 basic benchtops optical comparator is also a top-listed product in the market today. If you are expecting to get comparative or absolute measurements, this standard device is perfect for you. It is lightweight, portable, and economical. 

It offers three lens options such as 10X, 20X & 40X. But, a 10X lens is included with the unit and other lenses are available. 

T-slot stages are another high-lighted thing that makes it universal for multiple set-ups.

Plus, AGD Group 2 and electronic digital indicators are helpful to get a better experience in the field.

Pros

• It is light in weight;
• Utilizes a standard 110 power source to save cost;
• Three alternative lenses are available.

Cons

• Quite slow to do any critical measurements.

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10X LED Lighted Pocket Optical Comparator Set

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Specifications 

Manufacturer	‎Flexbar Machine Corporation
Model Number	12506
Magnification	10X

Find the optical comparator for multi-purpose? You can see this 10X LED Lighted Optical Comparator Set that comes from ‎Flexbar Machine Corporation.

 It has nine reticles such as 1,2,3,7,8,9,10,11,13. So, allows you to measure angles, diameters, linear metric & Inch. This comparator also helps to provide a clear view of the images. It receives a Flexbar 1 3/8″ diameter 10X series reticle. 

Additionally, it includes an on/off switch to control without all hassles. You can collect its reticles separately. It is simple to manipulate. Are you ready to collect this smart device at an adequate price?

Pros

• High-quality;
• Includes many reticles;
• Worth in price;
• More reticles.

Cons

• Quite uncomfortable for new users.

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HHIP 8902-0041 10X Pocket Optical Comparator

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Specifications

Manufacturer	ABS Import Tools, Inc
Model Number	8902-0041
Item Weight	11.2 ounces
Lens diameter	21mm
Reticles Number	8

Another great quality optical comparator is the HHIP 10X pocket optical comparator, which comes with 8 reticles. Whether you’re a machinist, toolmaker, or inspector, you can get everything from this service. 

It is suitable for checking diameters, angles, hole sizes, radii, thread pitches, and more. That is why you can do a lot of work with ease. 

The design and color are very good. Its lens diameter is 21mm. Another important feature is that this device is not heavy, just 11.2 Ounces. Plus, it has glass reticle scales that are suitable for easy reading.

Pros

• Widely used for multi-purpose;
• Great quality;
• Not costly.

Cons

• No cons.

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Frequently Asked Questions 

1. Which Comparator Has the Highest  Magnification?

The pneumatic comparator has the highest magnification. Its magnification is 30,000:1.

2. Optical Comparators Still Used?

Many well-regarded companies have made optical comparators in subsequent decades. These have been used in measuring many parts. Nowadays, they are usable in many machinery stores. 

3. What Is the Accuracy of an Optical Comparator?

Using magnification supports measuring the angles projected on the screen. By the honesty of magnification, you can get accuracy of a few moments to one degree. There are many magnification ranges. Among those, 10X is the most common type and widely used for different purposes. 

4. What Are the Different Types of Optical Comparators?

Optical comparators are several types such as-

• Zeiss Optotest Comparator
• Zeiss Ultra Optimeter
• Eden-Rolt Millionth Comparator
• Newall OMS Horizontal Optical Comparator.

Conclusion 

Finally, the optical comparator is one of the measurement tools in the manufactured parts. As a serious technician, you know the importance of accuracy to count anything. Only the best optical comparator can provide you all of the essential features along with working capacity.

Already, you have understood the six optical comparators from this article. Now, it is time to buy the expected one and enjoy your working activities. 

Don’t forget, our top-selected product is Mitutoyo 64PKA086 PH-A14 Optical Measuring Horizontal Profile Projector, and the second-selected product is Fowler 12 Basic Bench Top Optical Comparator.