Neoteck 200mm/8 inch Digital Vernier Caliper and Feeler

 

Ever since I started my 3d printing journey, my calipers have become my most often used tool. I only design and print functional parts and as such, dimensions are often an important part of the design process. For the past year or two, I’ve been using the general plastic calipers that everyone has. They are all clones of one another. I believe I bought mine at Canadian Tire on sale for around 15 dollars. I’ve been very satisfied with it but sometimes it doesn’t have the jaw clearance I need for some larger measurements. I was very excited to try the Neotech calipers so that I can compare it with my cheaper digital calipers. Let’s get into it:

– Right off the bat, the Neotech calipers have a maximum opening of 8 inches vs the 6 inches of the MasterCraft calipers.

– When not on sale, and at the time of this review, the MasterCraft calipers are actually $3 more expensive that the Neotech ones.

– Not only are they more expensive, they don’t come with the included feeler gauges that come included in the case of the Neotech calipers.

– The Neotech calipers have a metal housing whereas the MasterCraft calipers have an all plastic housing

– It is more difficult to replace the batteries in the Neotech calipers as you need to unscrew 2 little screws, but a small screwdriver is provided in the case.

– Both calipers come with a spare battery
It seems to me that the Neotech offering provides much better value when compared to the MasterCraft calipers. However, MasterCraft calipers do go on sale from time to time if comparing Neotech’s regular price to MasterCraft’s sale price, the value proposition flips.

Overall, I think the Neotech calipers offer competitive value, especially if you’re looking to obtain a set of feeler gauges anyway. In regards to accuracy, your needs will vary depending on your application. If you’re 3D printing, this is more than enough for your needs. If you’re a precision machinist, you already know this likely won’t suit your needs.