Resistor Color Code

Determine resistor value and tolerance from color bands (4 or 5 bands).

Color Bands

Number of Bands

Band 1

Band 2

Multiplier

Tolerance

Resistance Value

Select bands

About this calculator

Quick Reference

Black0

Brown1

Red2

Gold5%

Overview

Through-hole resistors use a color code system to indicate their resistance value and tolerance. The bands are read from left to right.

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Pro Tips

4-Band: 2 digits, multiplier, tolerance.
5-Band: 3 digits, multiplier, tolerance (more precise).
Gold and Silver bands are typically used for tolerance or very small multipliers.

Fun Facts

Formula: R = (Digit1 Digit2) * Multiplier