Decode Any Resistor by Its Color Bands
A free interactive resistor color code calculator that decodes 4, 5, and 6-band resistors. Click on each band to select a color and see the resistance value, tolerance range, and nearest E-series standard value. Works in reverse too — enter a value to find the color bands.
Identify resistor values instantly by clicking on color bands
Features
How to Read Resistor Color Codes
- Select the number of bands. Choose 4, 5, or 6 bands. Most common resistors have 4 bands; precision resistors have 5 or 6.
- Click each band to set its color. Click on a band on the SVG resistor to open the color picker. The resistance value updates in real time.
- Read the result. See the resistance, tolerance range, and nearest standard E-series value. Use reverse mode to find colors from a known value.
FAQ
How do resistor color codes work?
Each colored band represents a digit, multiplier, or tolerance. For a 4-band resistor: bands 1-2 are digits, band 3 is the multiplier (power of 10), and band 4 is the tolerance (gold = 5%, silver = 10%).
What is the difference between 4, 5, and 6-band resistors?
4-band: 2 digits + multiplier + tolerance. 5-band: 3 digits + multiplier + tolerance (higher precision). 6-band: 3 digits + multiplier + tolerance + temperature coefficient.
What are E-series values?
E-series (E12, E24, E96) are standardized sets of preferred resistance values. E12 has 12 values per decade, E24 has 24, and E96 has 96. Manufacturers only produce these standard values.
How do I read a resistor with gold or silver bands?
Gold and silver are only used for the multiplier band (×0.1 and ×0.01) and the tolerance band (5% and 10%). They never appear as digit bands.
Which end do I start reading from?
Start from the band closest to one end of the resistor. The tolerance band (usually gold or silver) is always the last band and has a slightly larger gap from the other bands.
We can — and it's free! Just send us a quick message with your idea. If you'd like to discuss it in detail, leave your email and we'll get back to you. You can stay anonymous.
