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Resistor Color Code

Calculate resistance from 4-band and 5-band color codes

Resistors use colored bands to indicate their resistance value and tolerance. Use this tool to quickly decode them.

Calculator Inputs

If 4-Band: This is Multiplier. If 5-Band: This is 3rd Digit.

If 4-Band: Select Tolerance. If 5-Band: Select Multiplier.

Results

Enter values above to see your results

How It Works

4-Band: Digit, Digit, Multiplier, Tolerance. 5-Band: Digit, Digit, Digit, Multiplier, Tolerance.

Tips & Best Practices

  • Gold or Silver is usually the last band (Tolerance).
  • Read from the end closer to the edge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why 5 bands?

5-band resistors are higher precision (1% or less tolerance) and need an extra significant digit.