Resistor Color Code Calculator
Select the color of each band and get the resistance in ohms and the tolerance. Works for both 4-band and 5-band resistors.
How to use
Choose 4 or 5 bands, then set each band's color starting from the end where the bands are grouped (the tolerance band, often gold or silver, is last). The value updates instantly.
The first bands are significant digits, the next is the multiplier, and the last is tolerance. The result is shown in Ω, kΩ or MΩ with the ± tolerance.
FAQ
How do I read a resistor?
Hold it with the tolerance band (usually gold or silver, and slightly separated) on the right. Read left to right: digits, multiplier, then tolerance.
What's the difference between 4 and 5 bands?
4-band resistors have 2 significant digits; 5-band (precision) resistors have 3, giving a more exact value. Pick the matching mode.
What does the tolerance band mean?
It's how far the real resistance can be from the marked value — e.g. gold = ±5%, brown = ±1%. Precision parts have tighter tolerances.
Which end do I start from?
From the side where the bands are grouped closer together. The lone band nearer the other end is the tolerance.