Resistor Color Code Calculator (4 & 5 Band)

Pick the band colors and read the resistance value instantly — supports 4-band and 5-band resistors.

How it works

Each color is a digit (black=0 … white=9). The multiplier band shifts the decimal point; the tolerance band (gold/silver) states accuracy. Value = digits × multiplier ± tolerance.

Color code reference

ColorDigitMultiplierTolerance
Black0×1
Brown1×10±1%
Red2×100±2%
Orange3×1k
Yellow4×10k
Green5×100k±0.5%
Blue6×1M±0.25%
Violet7×10M±0.1%
Gray8±0.05%
White9
Gold×0.1±5%
Silver×0.01±10%

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I read a 5-band resistor?

Bands 1–3 are digits, band 4 is the multiplier and band 5 is the tolerance. For 4-band resistors, bands 1–2 are digits, band 3 is the multiplier and band 4 is tolerance.

Which band comes first?

The tolerance band (gold or silver) sits at the far end — hold the resistor with it on the right and read the bands from the left.

What does tolerance mean?

The guaranteed accuracy of the stated value: a 1 kΩ resistor with 5% tolerance measures between 950 Ω and 1050 Ω.

Related Tools

Color Code to NameRGB to HEXHEX to RGBCMYK to RGB