The thickness gauge is a unique device that is widely used in the work of auto-painters. A simple layman, he may not be needed, but when buying a used car you can not do without it. In the list of 15 best thickness gauges with "AliExpress" you can find both budget models and professional devices at a rather high price.
- Thickness gauges and their types
- Purpose and advantages of thickness gauges
- The best low-cost paint thickness gauges
- All Sun EM2271
- Richmeters RM660
- Danoplus
- Yunombo YNB-100
- VKTECH GM200
- The best universal thickness gauges
- NICETYMETER Professional CM8811
- RICHMETERS GY910
- NICETYMETER CM8806-FN
- MiSery-770s
- MiSery DT-156
- R&D TC100
- The best ultrasonic thickness gauges
- Benetech GM100
- TK UM6500
- SMART SENSOR AR860
Thickness gauges and their types
A thickness gauge is understood to mean a special device for measuring the thickness of paintwork, soil, putty and even rust. Thickness gauges work without damage to the structure and integrity of the surface layer. Despite similar results, products can have different operating principles and, depending on this, are divided into the following groups:
- Eddy currents. Perfectly suited for aluminum, alloys, copper, have a minimum error. They work by means of an inductive effect on a metal (in a magnetic field). The thicker the coating layer, the lower the signal will be.
- Magnetic and electromagnetic. The simplest devices that provide information on the degree of attraction to the metal. They may have a significant error, oriented to the use of ferrous metals, which have magnetic properties.
- Ultrasonic The most modern thickness gauges, characterized by a minimum error (less than 3%). Reliably reflect the necessary information: the size of the coating layer, the type of base, its thickness. Perfectly suited for measurements on wood, plastic, glass, other non-metallic materials, as well as on any metals.
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Purpose and advantages of thickness gauges
In everyday life, thickness gauges are most often used for measuring the coating of a car body. Their benefit to the future car owner is huge, especially when buying a used car. There are frequent cases when the seller claims that the car did not get into an accident, was not painted, and after a while the new owner finds rust, scale, and putty layers.
With a thickness gauge, such problems can be avoided. This device will immediately identify the areas of straightening, re-puttying and manual finishing with repainting. The actual wear of the car, the degree of mechanical damage and geometry disruption cannot be hidden from the thickness gauge, moreover, it will make it possible to easily determine the honesty and decency of the seller and draw appropriate conclusions.
In fact, the use of the device really reduces the risk of unforeseen expenses in the future and increases the safety of the driver and passengers. It is not necessary to purchase expensive devices in automobile stores: the choice of thickness gauges at AliExpress is huge, and the prices are very affordable.
to contents ↑The best low-cost paint thickness gauges
On the AliExpress trading platform, various types of thickness gauges are presented, the cost of which starts from 600-800 rubles. When compiling a list of gadgets, reviews, the number of sales and build quality were taken into account. Cheap thickness gauges give the most accurate information regarding ferrous metals, and when working with non-ferrous metals they can have a large error.
to contents ↑All Sun EM2271
The magnetic thickness gauge of this brand is extremely easy to use. To turn on, just press one button, after which automatic calibration will occur. Then you need to select the unit of measurement (mils, mm) and attach the thickness gauge to the measurement area. It will reveal all uncharacteristic thickenings in comparison with the original factory coating.
The device gives information about the paintwork up to 2 mm thick in 0.1 mm increments. It is great for ferrous metals, but is not used on aluminum, copper, and other non-magnetic substrates. The device is powered by 3 CR2032 batteries that come with the kit. Features of the model:
- high quality, image clarity;
- work only at positive ambient temperatures;
- unsuitability for testing household appliances;
- the error on magnetic bases is 0.1–0.15 mm;
- small dimensions - 6.9 x 3.8 x 2 cm, weight - 23 g.
| Price | US $ 13.99 - 18.99 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 46% |
| Rating | 4,8 |
| Reviews | 3015 |
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Richmeters RM660
This compact thickness gauge works on the magnetic and electromagnetic principle, allowing you to measure the thickness of coatings on metal substrates. Despite the low price, the device has a minimum error (up to 20 microns) and makes measurements in the range of 0–1.25 mm. The thickness gauge has a user-friendly LCD display, the function of data storage, boasts speed and security.
In addition to assessing the condition of cars, the tester can be used in the inspection of equipment and products of the chemical industry. It is easily controlled: just press the “ON” button to turn it on and “FE / NFE” to select metals / non-metals. To select a unit of measure, the device has a ZERO button.
The model has a cover to protect the screen outside of use, it automatically turns off after a minute when inactive in order to save battery power (3 pieces of CR2032). The advantage of the thickness gauge is the possibility of its use at temperatures of –5 ... + 40 degrees and humidity 5 ... 95%. Calibration plates (iron and aluminum) are supplied in the kit.
| Price | RUB 1,622.80 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 18% |
| Rating | 4,6 |
| Reviews | 29 |
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Danoplus
In appearance, this model of the thickness gauge is rather modest: a small screen, a black case, a mesh cover in the kit. Nevertheless, the gadget has good functionality, accuracy and efficiency. Its characteristics and parameters:
- backlit LCD screen;
- the ability to save data;
- material selection (metal / non-metal);
- Convenience for carrying in your pocket;
- working principle - magnetic / electromagnetic;
- battery indicator;
- automatic shutdown in 60 seconds at idle time;
- measurement range - 0–1.25 mm;
- error - up to 2% or 0.02 mm;
- operating current - less than 10 mA;
- minimum base diameter - 10 mm;
- working temperature –5 ... + 40 degrees, storage temperature –20 ... + 60 degrees;
- weight - 36 g.
In addition to the meter itself, it comes with 3 CR2032 batteries, an iron and aluminum calibration plate, a case and a detailed manual for action.
| Price | US $ 22.99 - 25.99 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 25% |
| Rating | 4,7 |
| Reviews | 169 |
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Yunombo YNB-100
This is an inexpensive electromagnetic thickness gauge model. The product gives the most reliable results when working with a metal substrate, and on non-metals the accuracy of the indicators may decrease. A clear LCD screen has a bright backlight, so you can use the tester even in the dark and in an unlit garage.
The minimum layer thickness should be from 0.5 mm, while the error is quite small (0.1 mm). The meter works only at positive temperatures (from +18 degrees), is easily configured and calibrated. It is powered by two batteries, which are not included in the standard package, weighs only 64 g, and easily fits in your pocket.
| Price | US $ 13.99 - 16.99 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 39% |
| Rating | 4,8 |
| Reviews | 2158 |
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VKTECH GM200
A thickness gauge of this type is presented in three colors: in blue, yellow and white body. The measurement step of the device is the smallest possible (0.01 m), the maximum thickness of the measured layer is 1.8 mm, the error is 0.3 mm. The feeler gage works with metal and non-metal bases. It has the corresponding calibration plates in the kit, with which you can easily compare the source data with the reference indicators. The device is characterized by such features:
- portability;
- fast work;
- the availability of instructions in Russian;
- minimum power consumption;
- stylish design;
- powered by two ordinary "little" batteries;
- working temperatures - 0 ... + 40 degrees;
- weight - 80 g.
| Price | 211.82 - 614.20 rubles. |
|---|---|
| A discount | 25% |
| Rating | 4,9 |
| Reviews | 234 |
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The best universal thickness gauges
Universal devices are used not only to determine the thickness of the paint layer on the body. They are well suited even for assessing the quality of repairs in everyday life, they are equally often used in industry. Many devices of this group have a combined principle of operation: they operate in eddy current and electromagnetic modes.
NICETYMETER Professional CM8811
This thickness gauge is considered professional and has advanced functionality. It is characterized by high accuracy and high speed measurements, it is available to continuous and single measurements. In addition to the standard indicator of the thickness of the paint coating, the product provides information on average and maximum values, minimum thickness, deviations, and can display all information on the screen at the same time.
The tester is made of the most durable plastic, which is practically not subject to scratching and does not crack when dropped. It is equipped with a remote probe for measurements in hard to reach places. The fact that the thickness gauge itself identifies the type of base material, which saves the user time, greatly facilitates the work. Features of the model:
- sound information analyzer;
- simple calibration, plates in a set;
- clear menu;
- storage for 50 measurements;
- bright backlight for work in the dark;
- battery indicator;
- the ability to delete data or completely clear the memory.
The product weighs about 180 g, its dimensions are 166 x 68 x 30 mm. In the kit, in addition to steel and aluminum plates, there are test plastic spikes. There is a hard case for storage and carrying.
| Price | RUB 10,995.73 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 8% |
| Rating | 5,0 |
| Reviews | 3 |
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RICHMETERS GY910
The digital thickness gauge in the form of a key fob of this brand works on the principle of eddy current effect and magnetic induction. It is great for working with metal and non-metal substrates, gives an almost instant result, displaying it on a convenient screen. The thickness gauge operates within the range of 0–1300 microns, has an accuracy of 1 micron, gives information in mm, microns, microns. Product Features:
- light weight, compactness;
- multi-stage calibration;
- the ability to reset the results;
- calibration plates included;
- work in the temperature range 0 ... + 40 degrees;
- charge indicator.
The thickness gauge is not equipped with a backlight, so measurements are best done in the daytime. The minimum coating thickness that he can detect on non-ferrous metals is 0.3 mm, on steel - 0.5 mm.
| Price | RUB 3,246.27 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 20% |
| Rating | 4,7 |
| Reviews | 848 |
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NICETYMETER CM8806-FN
This is a professional thickness gauge with an error of only 2 microns, a test range of 0-1250 microns and a resolution of 1 micron. After approaching the surface, he immediately determines the type of metal, calibrates and makes the necessary measurements. Among other things, the tester can reflect the maximum and minimum thickness, average values, the error of the paint layer.
The thickness gauge stores 99 measurements, has the function of resetting or selective deletion. It is powered by two AAA batteries, weighs only 80 g, fits easily in your pocket. The thickness gauge is equipped with a high-quality and bright TFT-screen with a resolution of 160 x 128. The device can operate at 0 ... + 50 degrees. Included are 2 calibration plates, extra batteries and a high-quality storage case.
| Price | RUB 6,367.70 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 37% |
| Rating | 4,8 |
| Reviews | 60 |
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MiSery-770s
A feature of this device is its impressive functionality, which will be in demand among professionals or those who appreciate the high accuracy of the results. The dual principle of operation (eddy current and magnetic) allows the tester to be used on metallic and non-metallic substrates, anodized products, and two different sensors are provided to increase efficiency. The thickness gauge will show not only the places of layering of paint and putty, but also accurately determine the elements of corrosion. It is ideal for the following areas:
- auto repair shops;
- production;
- release and repair of household appliances;
- paint shops;
- automotive industry;
- chemical laboratories;
- engineering;
- ship and aviation industry.
The meter stores 400 values in memory, while it can simultaneously display up to 5 groups of data. The sensor is configured for point or continuous measurement - at the request of the user. The thickness gauge is equipped with a USB port, software on the disk, can be connected to a computer for analysis and printing of information. It has a beautiful blue backlight, battery indicator, gives a variety of sound signals. A unique feature of the device is the presence of a V-shaped groove for small cylindrical parts. Technical characteristics of the thickness gauge:
- maximum coating thickness - 2 mm;
- the error is less than 3%;
- minimum radius of curvature - 1.5 mm;
- the minimum measurement area is 5 mm.
| Price | RUB 5,975.94 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 40% |
| Rating | 4,7 |
| Reviews | 39 |
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MiSery DT-156
This appliance is manufactured by the same manufacturer as the previous one. Its functionality is similar, as is the cost (about 6500 rubles). The model has 2 sensors for detecting metals / non-metals, working according to different principles (magnetic and eddy current). The error of the tester is slightly higher than that of analogues, and can reach 3-5%. The package bundle is quite rich and includes:
- strong case for storage from plastic;
- calibration foil;
- USB cable
- spare batteries;
- instructions in 4 languages;
- two types of substrates;
- driver disk.
| Price | RUB 5,975.94 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 40% |
| Rating | 4,8 |
| Reviews | 22 |
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R&D TC100
This digital device is used to measure the thickness of paint, enamel, a layer of galvanization, chromium plating or anodization on various substrates (metal and non-metal). Thanks to the combined principle of operation, it works equally well on steel and non-ferrous metals. The device has the function of automatically detecting the type of base, it is quickly calibrated, and almost instantly provides the necessary information. Available in white and gray. Technical parameters and features of the tester:
- weight - about 100 g;
- dimensions - 130 x 62 x 32 mm;
- measurement range - 0–1300 microns;
- error - no more than 3%;
- pitch - 0.1 microns;
- working temperature - 0 ... + 40 degrees;
- minimum coating thickness for measurements - 0.5 mm.
| Price | RUB 2,556.38 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 30% |
| Rating | 4,9 |
| Reviews | 71 |
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The best ultrasonic thickness gauges
Such models have a special principle of operation due to the built-in ultrasonic sensor. They are great for non-metallic coatings, since they are completely independent of the effects of magnets or current strength. In most cases, ultrasonic thickness gauges are used by professionals: their accuracy is high, but the price is also quite impressive. The cost of products is 6–11 thousand rubles or more.
to contents ↑Benetech GM100
Benetech's “smart” thickness gauge has a wide range of sound speed (1000–9999 m / s), is able to be configured in accordance with 12 different programs, making it suitable for all known materials.A feature is the automatic compensation of nonlinearity, which increases the accuracy of measurements.
The product is equipped with an LCD display with backlight, a function of indicating the presence of contact with the surface. All manipulations are controlled by a processor that provides fast and efficient returns. The error does not exceed 0.5%, which is the minimum possible indicator and may not be taken into account at all.
| Price | RUB3,640.01 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 20% |
| Rating | 4,8 |
| Reviews | 60 |
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TK UM6500
One of the best measuring instruments for coating thickness, which is suitable for any metal substrates, and is also suitable for measurements on PVC, glass, and polyethylene. Its features:
- compactness, light weight;
- automatic calibration;
- suitability for difficult weather conditions;
- large screen;
- protection against splashes, high humidity;
- function "sleep mode";
- bright backlight;
- resolution - 0.1 mm.
In addition to the case and instructions, the kit also has a special gel to enhance contact with the treated surface.
| Price | $ 5,742.22 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 6% |
| Rating | 5,0 |
| Reviews | 1 |
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SMART SENSOR AR860
The professional Smart Sensor AR860 model has a huge number of customizable and automatic functions. It is suitable for working with any kind of material without exception. An error of 0.05–0.1 mm and the possibility of using it in any weather make the device indispensable among car service masters. It is equipped with battery saving, auto calibration, linear indexing, indicator clutch modes.
| Price | RUB 10,955.23 |
|---|---|
| A discount | 30% |
| Rating | 4,7 |
| Reviews | 3 |
Thickness gauges with "AliExpress" are reliable in operation, while most of them have a very affordable price. When buying a car, you should take care in advance and order such a gadget so as not to get into a mess and get really worthwhile equipment.
