Master Resistor Color Codes in 2025
Learn to read resistor color codes with this beginner’s guide. Use our interactive calculator and step-by-step examples to decode resistor values easily.
Try the Resistor Calculator
Why Resistor Color Codes Matter
Resistors control current in every electronic circuit, and their values are marked by colorful bands. Learning to read these resistor color codes is a key skill for any electronics enthusiast.
This guide makes it easy with a clear chart, step-by-step examples, and an interactive calculator to decode 4, 5, and 6-band resistors.
Step 1: Orient the Resistor Correctly
Start by holding the resistor so the bands are closest to one end. The tolerance band (usually gold or silver) is typically separated by a gap or wider spacing.
Tip: If unsure, look for the side with grouped bands or a wider band to begin reading.
Resistor Color Code Chart
Each color represents a digit, multiplier, or tolerance. Use this chart to decode the bands:
| Color | Digit (Bands 1-3) | Multiplier | Tolerance | Temp. Coefficient |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 0 | 10⁰ (1) | - | - |
| Brown | 1 | 10¹ (10) | ±1% | 100 ppm/°C |
| Red | 2 | 10² (100) | ±2% | 50 ppm/°C |
| Orange | 3 | 10³ (1k) | - | 15 ppm/°C |
| Yellow | 4 | 10⁴ (10k) | - | 25 ppm/°C |
| Green | 5 | 10⁵ (100k) | ±0.5% | 20 ppm/°C |
| Blue | 6 | 10⁶ (1M) | ±0.25% | 10 ppm/°C |
| Violet | 7 | 10⁷ (10M) | ±0.1% | 5 ppm/°C |
| Gray | 8 | 10⁸ (100M) | ±0.05% | 1 ppm/°C |
| White | 9 | 10⁹ (1G) | - | - |
| Gold | - | 10⁻¹ (0.1) | ±5% | - |
| Silver | - | 10⁻² (0.01) | ±10% | - |
| None | - | - | ±20% | - |
Mnemonic: "Bad Boys Race Our Young Girls But Violet Generally Wins" (Black, Brown, Red, Orange, Yellow, Green, Blue, Violet, Gray, White).
Try It Yourself: Resistor Color Code Calculator
Select the colors of your resistor’s bands to calculate its value:
Step-by-Step Examples
4-Band: Brown-Black-Red-Gold
- Brown: 1
- Black: 0
- Red: 10² (100)
- Gold: ±5%
Value: 10 × 100 = 1kΩ ±5% (950–1050Ω)
5-Band: Green-Blue-Black-Orange-Brown
- Green: 5
- Blue: 6
- Black: 0
- Orange: 10³ (1k)
- Brown: ±1%
Value: 560 × 1k = 560kΩ ±1% (554.4–565.6kΩ)
Advanced: 5-Band and 6-Band Resistors
5-Band Resistors
Used for precision, with three digits, a multiplier, and tolerance.
Bands: 1st-3rd (digits), 4th (multiplier), 5th (tolerance).
6-Band Resistors
Adds a temperature coefficient band to show resistance change with temperature.
Bands: 1st-3rd (digits), 4th (multiplier), 5th (tolerance), 6th (temp. coefficient).
Understanding Tolerance
Tolerance shows how close the actual resistance is to the stated value. For example, a 1kΩ resistor with ±5% tolerance can range from 950Ω to 1050Ω. Precision resistors have lower tolerances (e.g., ±1% or ±0.1%).
Tips for Success
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Lighting: Read bands in good light to distinguish colors (e.g., red vs. orange).
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Avoid Mistakes: Double-check band order and ensure you start from the correct end.
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Use a Multimeter: Verify resistance with a multimeter if unsure.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you read resistor color codes?
Start from the side with bands closer together. Use the color code chart to find digits, multiplier, and tolerance, then calculate the resistance.
What do the colors on a resistor mean?
Colors represent digits, multipliers, or tolerance. For example, Brown is 1, Red is 10², and Gold is ±5%.
What’s the difference between 4-band and 5-band resistors?
4-band resistors have two digits, a multiplier, and tolerance. 5-band resistors add a third digit for precision.
Why is tolerance important?
Tolerance shows the range of actual resistance, critical for precision circuits.
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