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Resistor Color Code

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Through-hole resistors use colored bands painted on the body to indicate their resistance value. This calculator supports both 4-band (2 digits + multiplier + tolerance) and 5-band (3 digits + multiplier + tolerance) resistors. Select the color of each band to instantly decode the resistance.

4-Band: (Band1×10 + Band2) × Multiplier ± Tolerance5-Band: (Band1×100 + Band2×10 + Band3) × Multiplier ± Tolerance
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How to use this calculator

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. **Determine the band count** Most standard resistors have 4 bands. Precision resistors typically have 5 bands. Select the correct type from the dropdown.
2. **Orient the resistor correctly** Hold the resistor so the tolerance band (usually gold or silver) is on the right side. Read the bands from left to right.
3. **Select each band color** Use the dropdown menus to match the colors you see on the physical resistor.
4. **Click “Decode Resistance”** The calculator instantly shows the resistance value in Ohms, kΩ, or MΩ along with the tolerance range.

Worked Example

4-band resistor with **Brown-Black-Red-Gold** bands:

Brown=1, Black=0 digits “10” | Red=×100 multiplier | Gold=±5% tolerance

Result: 10 × 100 = **1,000Ω (1kΩ) ±5%** Range: 950Ω to 1,050Ω

Pro Tips

  • The tolerance band is usually slightly separated from the other bands this helps you orient the resistor correctly.
  • If you cannot distinguish between brown and red under poor lighting, use a multimeter to verify the reading.
  • Common memorization mnemonic: **B** ad **B** eer **R** ots **O** ur **Y** oung **G** uts **B** ut **V** odka **G** oes **W** ell (Black, Brown, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Violet, Grey, White).