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Resistor Color Code Calculator
Decode 4, 5, or 6 band resistor colors to get resistance value. Also works in reverse.
Resistance Value
1.00 kΩ
±5%
Color Code Reference
| Color | Digit | Multiplier | Tolerance |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 0 | ×1 Ω | - |
| Brown | 1 | ×10 Ω | ±1% |
| Red | 2 | ×100 Ω | ±2% |
| Orange | 3 | ×1 kΩ | - |
| Yellow | 4 | ×10 kΩ | - |
| Green | 5 | ×100 kΩ | ±0.5% |
| Blue | 6 | ×1 MΩ | ±0.25% |
| Violet | 7 | ×10 MΩ | ±0.1% |
| Gray | 8 | ×100 MΩ | ±0.05% |
| White | 9 | ×1 GΩ | - |
| Gold | - | ×0.1 Ω | ±5% |
| Silver | - | ×0.01 Ω | ±10% |
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I read a 4-band resistor?
The first two bands are digits, the third is the multiplier, and the fourth is tolerance. For example: Brown-Black-Red-Gold = 10 × 100 = 1000Ω (1kΩ) ±5%
What's the difference between 4, 5, and 6 band resistors?
4-band: 2 digits + multiplier + tolerance. 5-band: 3 digits + multiplier + tolerance (more precision). 6-band: same as 5-band plus temperature coefficient.
Which end do I start reading from?
Start from the end with bands closest together, or the end without the metallic (gold/silver) tolerance band. The tolerance band is usually slightly separated from the others.