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Resistor Color Code Calculator

Select band colors to get resistance and tolerance

Calculated Resistance

1.000 MΩ

Tolerance: ±5%

How to Use This Calculator

1

Choose Band Count

Select 4 bands (common) or 5 bands (precision resistors).

2

Select Colors

Choose each band’s color for digits, multiplier, and tolerance.

3

View Result

The resistance and tolerance are displayed instantly.

Formula

For 4-band: R = (D1D2) × Multiplier; Tolerance set by 4th band.

For 5-band: R = (D1D2D3) × Multiplier; Tolerance set by 5th band.

Where: Di are digit values from color bands; multiplier scales by powers of ten (or 0.1/0.01 for gold/silver).

About Resistor Color Code Calculator

Quickly decode color bands on resistors to their numeric value and tolerance. Supports both 4-band and 5-band standards.

Tips

  • Read bands from the end with the wider spacing towards the tolerance band.
  • Gold and silver are only used for multiplier or tolerance bands.
  • If unsure, measure with a multimeter to verify.

Frequently Asked Questions

What’s the reading direction?

Start from the end opposite the tolerance band (gold/silver) which is usually separated by a larger gap.

Do 6-band resistors work?

This version supports 4- and 5-band. 6th band typically indicates temperature coefficient (ppm/°C).

How accurate are results?

Accuracy depends on band reading and tolerance. The numeric value is exact per code; the real part varies within tolerance.