What Are Resistor Color Codes?
Resistor color codes are a system of colored bands painted on resistors to indicate their resistance value, tolerance, and sometimes temperature coefficient. This system was developed because resistors are often too small to have their values printed on them in readable text.
4-Band Resistor Code
The most common type uses 4 bands: the first two bands represent significant digits, the third band is the multiplier, and the fourth band indicates tolerance. For example, a resistor with Brown-Black-Red-Gold bands has a value of 1000Ω (1kΩ) with ±5% tolerance.
5-Band Resistor Code
Precision resistors use 5 bands: three significant digits, one multiplier, and one tolerance band. This allows for more precise values like 47.5kΩ.
Tips for Reading Color Codes
- Always read from the band closest to one end of the resistor
- The tolerance band (gold or silver) is always on the right side
- Use a multimeter to verify if unsure
- Our free color code calculator can help you decode any resistor instantly
Practice makes perfect — try our Resistor Color Code Calculator to test your skills!