Resistor Color Code Calculator
Calculate resistance values from color bands with our free resistor color code calculator. Supports both 4-band and 5-band resistors with visual representation and tolerance calculation.
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Calculated Values
Resistor Color Code Reference
| Color | Digit | Multiplier | Tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|
Black | 0 | ×1 | - |
Brown | 1 | ×10 | ±1% |
Red | 2 | ×100 | ±2% |
Orange | 3 | ×1000 | - |
Yellow | 4 | ×10000 | - |
Green | 5 | ×100000 | ±0.5% |
Blue | 6 | ×1000000 | ±0.25% |
Violet | 7 | ×10000000 | ±0.1% |
Gray | 8 | ×100000000 | ±0.05% |
White | 9 | ×1000000000 | - |
Gold | - | ×0.1 | ±5% |
Silver | - | ×0.01 | ±10% |
Understanding Resistor Color Codes
Resistor color codes are a standard method for indicating the resistance value and tolerance of resistors. This system uses colored bands painted on the resistor body to represent different values, making it easy to identify resistance values without measuring equipment.
How to Read Resistor Color Codes:
- Start from the band closest to one end of the resistor
- The first 2-3 bands represent significant digits
- The next band is the multiplier (power of 10)
- The last band indicates tolerance (accuracy)
4-Band vs 5-Band Resistors:
- 4-Band: 2 significant digits + multiplier + tolerance
- 5-Band: 3 significant digits + multiplier + tolerance
Common Resistor Values
Standard Values (E12 Series)
Common resistor values with ±5% tolerance:
Precision Values (E24 Series)
High precision resistors with ±1% tolerance:
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I read a resistor color code?
To read a resistor color code, start from the band closest to one end of the resistor. For a 4-band resistor: the first two bands are digits, the third is a multiplier, and the fourth is tolerance. For a 5-band resistor: the first three bands are digits, the fourth is a multiplier, and the fifth is tolerance. Use our calculator to automatically determine the resistance value.
What's the difference between 4-band and 5-band resistors?
4-band resistors have two significant digits and are typically used for standard precision applications (±5% or ±10% tolerance). 5-band resistors have three significant digits, providing higher precision and are commonly used in precision circuits (±1% or ±2% tolerance). The extra digit allows for more precise resistance values.
What does the tolerance band tell me?
The tolerance band indicates the acceptable variation in the resistor's actual value compared to its nominal value. For example, a 100Ω resistor with ±5% tolerance can have an actual value between 95Ω and 105Ω. Common tolerances are: Gold (±5%), Silver (±10%), Brown (±1%), Red (±2%), and Green (±0.5%).
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