Every Height.
Every Depth. Measured Right.
From marking precise layout lines to checking hole and slot depths, discover which Mitutoyo height or depth gauge belongs in your workshop.
Above the Surface. Below the Edge.
A machined component can have the correct width and diameter but still fail inspection because a step is too high or a recess is too deep.
Height and depth gauges help measure these dimensions with a stable reference. Height gauges are typically used on a surface plate for vertical measurement and layout marking. Depth gauges use a reference base across an opening to measure how far a hole, slot, or recess extends below the surface.
Both instruments help machinists, fabricators, engineers, and quality-control teams inspect components more consistently.
What's Your Next Measurement?
Choose the task closest to your application to reveal a suitable instrument category.
I need to mark accurate layout lines on metal.
Mitutoyo Series 514
Height gauges can be used with a suitable scriber and surface plate for precision layout work.
Example: Mitutoyo 514-102, 300 mm Vernier Height Gauge (HS-30).
Explore Vernier Height GaugesI want easier digital height readings.
Mitutoyo Series 192
Digital height gauges provide electronic readings for suitable vertical measurement and layout applications.
Example: Mitutoyo 192-613-10, 300 mm Digital Height Gauge (HD30A).
Explore Digital Height GaugesI want a mechanical height gauge with a dial.
Mitutoyo 192-130 (HW-30)
A dial height gauge with digit counter provides a mechanical alternative to a digital display.
Example: Mitutoyo 192-130, 300 mm measuring range.
Explore Dial Height GaugesI need to measure a hole, slot, or recess.
Mitutoyo Series 527
A Vernier depth gauge uses a flat reference base and sliding measuring blade or rod to check suitable depths.
Example: Mitutoyo 527-201, 150 mm Vernier Depth Gauge (VDS15DC).
Explore Vernier Depth GaugesI need a clear digital depth reading.
Mitutoyo Series 571
Digital ABS AOS depth gauges offer an electronic display for suitable depth measurements.
Example: Mitutoyo 571-201-30, 150 mm Digital ABS AOS Depth Gauge.
Explore Digital Depth GaugesI need precise depth checks with a micrometer mechanism.
Mitutoyo Series 129
Depth micrometers use a micrometer screw mechanism and suitable measuring rods for precision depth measurement.
Choose the correct base, rod configuration, and measuring range for the workpiece.
Explore Depth MicrometersHeight Gauge or Depth Gauge?
Measure Above a Reference.
A height gauge normally stands on a surface plate. It measures vertical dimensions or marks layout lines using an appropriate contact or scriber.
Examples: Step height, component height, and layout marking.
Measure Below a Reference.
A depth gauge rests its base across a reference surface and extends a rod or blade into a recess.
Examples: Hole depth, groove depth, and slot depth.
Four Details That Matter Before Buying
Can It Reach?
Choose an instrument with enough travel for the largest dimension you intend to inspect.
How Will You Read It?
Vernier, dial, and digital designs have different reading methods and operating requirements.
Is the Base Stable?
Surface plate condition and base contact can strongly influence the measurement.
Does It Meet the Tolerance?
Resolution alone does not establish accuracy. Review the exact model's published specifications.
Tap to Learn: Measurement Terminology
What is a surface plate?
A surface plate is a precision reference surface used for inspection and layout. Height gauges are commonly operated on a suitable, clean surface plate.
What is a scriber?
A scriber is a pointed marking attachment used for layout work. It is not interchangeable with every measurement probe or contact tip.
What does ABS mean on a digital depth gauge?
ABS refers to an absolute measuring system. On supported models, it helps retain a reference origin rather than requiring the user to establish an incremental origin after every power-on.
Is 0.01 mm resolution the same as 0.01 mm accuracy?
No. Resolution is the smallest displayed or graduated increment. Accuracy must be evaluated using the manufacturer's specification and the complete measuring setup.
Vernier, Dial, or Digital?
The best instrument isn't necessarily the most expensive or the one with the finest display increment. It's the one suited to your measurement task.
Classic & Battery-Free.
A mechanical scale requires careful interpretation but doesn't rely on an electronic display.
Mechanical & Readable.
Dial graduations and a counter, depending on the model, help users interpret movement and height.
Clear & Convenient.
Electronic readings can simplify inspection and reduce scale-reading mistakes.
Precision Screw Measurement.
Suitable for applications where a depth micrometer's base, rods, and measuring mechanism are appropriate.
| Feature | Vernier | Dial | Digital |
|---|---|---|---|
| Readout | Graduated scale | Dial and scale/counter | Electronic display |
| Battery | No | No | Yes |
| Reading effort | Requires scale interpretation | Mechanical dial interpretation | Direct display reading |
| Common applications | Layout and dimensional inspection | Repeated mechanical readings | Frequent measurement and recording |
| Accuracy | Model-specific | Model-specific | Model-specific |
Find the Right Tool for the Job.
Explore these Mitutoyo models listed in KHM Megatools' height and depth gauge collections. Check the linked pages for current product details and availability.
Height Gauges
Mitutoyo 514-102
Vernier Height Gauge (HS-30) for suitable layout and vertical inspection work.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo 514-106
Vernier Height Gauge (HS-60) for larger vertical measurement requirements.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo 192-130
Dial Height Gauge (HW-30) with digit counter for mechanical height readings.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo 192-613-10
Digital Height Gauge (HD30A) for electronic height measurement.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo 192-614-10
Digital Height Gauge (HD-60A) for taller workpieces and suitable inspection setups.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo 192-632-10
Digital Height Gauge (HD24B) for suitable inch/metric measurement applications.
Explore Product →Depth Gauges
Mitutoyo 527-201
Vernier Depth Gauge (VDS15DC) for holes, recesses, and slots within its range.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo 527-203
Vernier Depth Gauge (VDS30DC) for deeper features within the stated range.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo 527-301-50
Dial Depth Gauge (DVD15) for suitable mechanical depth readings.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo 571-201-30
Digital ABS AOS Depth Gauge with electronic readout.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo 571-203-30
Digital ABS AOS Depth Gauge for longer-depth inspection tasks.
Explore Product →Mitutoyo Series 129
Depth micrometer family with interchangeable rods for suitable precision depth applications.
Explore Product →How to Measure Height and Depth Correctly.
Part A: Using a Height Gauge
Prepare the Surface Plate
Clean the plate, gauge base, and workpiece. Check for burrs or debris.
Position the Workpiece
Place the component securely on the reference surface in the required orientation.
Verify the Reference
Set or verify zero using the appropriate contact and reference procedure.
Move to the Measurement Point
Position the measuring contact or scriber as required, avoiding excessive force.
Read and Record
Record the measurement and compare it with the drawing tolerance.
Part B: Using a Depth Gauge
Clean the Reference Surface
Remove debris around the opening and inspect the bottom of the recess.
Seat the Gauge Base
Place the base flat and stable across the reference surface.
Extend the Measuring Rod
Move the rod or blade to contact the bottom without tilting the gauge.
Check Alignment
Confirm the base is fully seated and the measuring contact reaches the intended bottom surface.
Read and Evaluate
Take the reading, repeat as necessary, and compare it with the required specification.
Can You Spot the Difference?
Here's the Inspection Scenario.
A drawing specifies a recess depth of 20.00 ± 0.05 mm. Your depth gauge reads 20.08 mm.
Does the measurement meet the specified tolerance?
A — Yes, it passes.
Not quite. The maximum permitted depth is 20.05 mm.
B — No, it exceeds the limit.
Correct! The acceptable interval is 19.95 mm to 20.05 mm. A measured value of 20.08 mm is 0.03 mm above the upper limit.
C — It passes because the difference is below 0.10 mm.
Not quite. The specified tolerance is ±0.05 mm, not ±0.10 mm.
Simplified training example; actual acceptance decisions may require measurement uncertainty and an established decision rule.
Your 30-Second Measurement Checklist.
Tick each item before inspecting your next component.
Little Setup Errors. Big Consequences.
Tap each mistake to see how to avoid it.
Using a Height Gauge Without a Suitable Reference
Use a suitable surface plate and verify the reference before measurement. An uneven workbench is not a substitute for a precision reference surface.
Letting a Depth Gauge Tilt
Keep the base fully seated across the opening. Tilting can affect the measured depth.
Measuring Over Burrs or Dirt
Clean the workpiece and measuring surfaces. Burrs or debris can change the contact position.
Using a Scriber as a Universal Measuring Probe
Use the appropriate contact for the inspection. Scribing and precise dimensional measurement may require different attachments and procedures.
Confusing Resolution with Accuracy
A fine display increment does not guarantee equivalent measurement accuracy. Check model specifications and the inspection setup.
Choosing Too Short a Measuring Range
Select a gauge that can reach the full dimension without exceeding its intended travel.
Still Choosing? Let's Clear Things Up.
What is a height gauge used for?
A height gauge is used for vertical dimensional measurement, comparison, and suitable layout marking, normally with a surface plate.
What is a depth gauge used for?
A depth gauge measures suitable holes, slots, recesses, and other features below a reference surface.
Can a height gauge measure depth?
Some specialized height measuring setups can evaluate certain depth-related features, but a conventional depth gauge is generally more appropriate for holes and recesses.
Which is better: Vernier or digital?
Neither is automatically better. Vernier instruments are battery-free, while digital instruments offer easier direct readings. Choose based on accuracy, range, application, and working conditions.
Do I need a surface plate for a height gauge?
A suitable surface plate is normally used as the precision reference for conventional height-gauge measurement and layout.
What's the difference between a depth gauge and depth micrometer?
Depth gauges commonly use a sliding rod or blade with Vernier, dial, or digital readout. Depth micrometers use a precision screw mechanism and may have interchangeable rods.
Can a caliper measure depth?
Many calipers have a depth rod for quick checks. A dedicated depth gauge may offer a more suitable reference base for certain depth measurements.
Where can I find Mitutoyo height and depth gauges in the Philippines?
Explore Mitutoyo height gauges, depth gauges, and other measuring instruments through KHM Megatools' online collections.
Browse Mitutoyo GaugesPrecision Starts With the Right Reference.
Whether you're marking a layout line, inspecting a step height, or checking the depth of a machined recess, explore Mitutoyo measuring instruments for your application.
Shop Height Gauges Shop Depth GaugesProduct specifications, prices, and availability may change. Confirm the exact model before ordering.
Build Your Precision Measuring Toolkit.
Mitutoyo Calipers
Explore digital, Vernier, and dial calipers for general dimensional measurement.
Explore Calipers →Mitutoyo Micrometers
Learn about precision instruments for suitable external, internal, and specialized measurements.
Explore Micrometers →
