How to Choose the Right Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge – Manufacturer, Brand, and Price Insights

Before choosing a manufacturer, it's important to understand the different types of ultrasonic thickness gauges available on the market. These devices are not one-size-fits-all — their features and designs vary based on the specific application, probe type, and precision requirements. Knowing which model suits your needs can make the difference between accurate, reliable measurements and costly errors.

1. Common Types of Ultrasonic Thickness Gauges

• Standard Ultrasonic Thickness Gauges

  These are used for general-purpose thickness measurements of metals, plastics, and other homogeneous materials. They provide fast and reliable readings in typical industrial settings.

• High Precision Ultrasonic Thickness Gauges

  Designed for applications requiring extremely fine resolution (up to 0.001mm/1μm), such as precision components, thin films, and laboratory testing. These models are ideal when accuracy is critical.

• Multi-Layer Ultrasonic Thickness Gauges

  Advanced models capable of measuring multiple layers simultaneously, useful in detecting the thickness of coatings over base materials, such as painted metals.

2. Key Features to Consider

• Measurement Range & Resolution: Make sure the gauge supports the thickness range of your target material with adequate resolution.

• Material Compatibility: Look for devices that support a wide variety of materials, or allow you to manually adjust the sound velocity.

• Calibration Options: Most ultrasonic thickness gauges support one-point or two-point calibration and include built-in reference blocks.

• Data Storage & Output: For quality control and reporting, features like data logging, USB/Bluetooth transfer, and PC software are highly valuable.

• Environmental Durability: For harsh environments, choose rugged designs with waterproof housings and durable keypads.

With such a wide range of types and technical features available, it's clear that choosing the right ultrasonic thickness gauge isn't just about the device — it's also about finding a manufacturer that understands your needs and offers tailored solutions.

After evaluating user feedback, feature sets, and application flexibility, these brands represent some of the most trusted options in the ultrasonic thickness gauge market today. Whether you're looking for a high-end device for precision measurement or a cost-effective solution for routine inspections, these brands offer models to suit every need.

The price of an ultrasonic thickness gauge varies significantly depending on its features, measurement capabilities, and target application. Whether you're looking for a simple handheld tester or a high-end multi-functional instrument, understanding the typical pricing tiers can help you make a more informed purchasing decision.

1. Price Ranges by Function and Application

• Entry-Level Models ($70–$170)

  These affordable models are ideal for measuring the thickness of standard materials such as metal sheets, plastics, and coatings. They usually offer basic functions and lower resolution, and are not suitable for ultra-thin or very thick materials.

• Mid-Range Models ($170–$850)

  These gauges support auto gain adjustment, large memory for data storage, customizable sound velocity settings, backlit displays, and often come with PC software or mobile app support. They can measure a wide variety of materials, including plastics, fiberglass, and rubber.

• High-End Models ($850–$2,800+)

  Advanced models offer features like A-scan/B-scan imaging, multi-layer thickness measurement, and integration with third-party software or industrial systems. These are suitable for complex composite materials, precision quality control, and research-grade applications.

2. Which Price Tier Is Right for You?

• Just Measuring Metal Plates? — Go with Entry to Mid-Level

  If your primary goal is to measure the thickness of steel, aluminum, or other metals, an affordable ultrasonic wall thickness gauge in the lower price range will be sufficient. Complex features are not required — reliability and simplicity matter most.

• Need to Measure Plastics, Fiberglass, or Rubber? — Choose Mid-Range

  These materials have different sound velocities compared to metals. For accurate readings, you'll need a model that supports velocity customization — either through a built-in material library or manual input. Without this function, measurement errors are likely due to sound speed variation in different materials.

• Need to Measure Multi-Layer Thickness? — Choose a Multi-Layer Gauge

  For example, the LS216 Multi-Layer Ultrasonic Thickness Gauge by Linshang supports simultaneous measurement of up to three layers. It's one of the few devices on the market offering this capability, ideal for analyzing composite structures like honeycomb panels or sandwich materials.

• For R&D or High-Standard Quality Control? — Go High-End

  In laboratory or high-precision manufacturing environments, advanced features like A-scan/B-scan imaging and echo waveform display are essential. These help users detect internal defects and ensure measurement accuracy. High-end models also offer data storage and export functions, making them suitable for scientific research, aerospace, and professional QA processes.

By understanding your material type, measurement needs, and working environment, you can select an ultrasonic thickness tester that offers the best balance between price and performance — whether it's an affordable device for simple tasks or a high-precision ultrasonic thickness gauge for specialized applications.

When purchasing an ultrasonic thickness gauge, finding the best value for your needs is far more important than chasing high-end features you may never use. A well-matched model offers better long-term reliability, ease of use, and cost-efficiency. Here are several practical tips to help you make the right choice:

1. Choose Features That Are “Just Right”

   Start by defining your core measurement needs. Avoid paying for advanced functions that don't serve your actual use cases. For example, if you only need to measure basic metal thickness, there's no need for waveform display or multi-layer capabilities. Simplicity can be a strength when the focus is on reliability and speed.

2. Prioritize Brand Reliability

   A reliable ultrasonic thickness gauge brand means more than just a logo — it ensures accurate readings, durable build quality, and less downtime due to equipment failure. Trusted brands are backed by years of technical expertise and user feedback.

   One such example is Linshang, a well-established Chinese manufacturer that offers a complete range of ultrasonic thickness testers from budget models to high-end solutions. Known for their stable performance and user-friendly design, Linshang’s products are widely used in industrial environments.

3. Recommended Linshang Models:

   LS211: Measuring range up to 600mm with a resolution of 0.001mm. Ideal for thick metal parts and large structural components.

   LS212: 350mm range with 0.001mm resolution, offering high accuracy and wide applicability for most industrial materials.

   LS213: Also with a 350mm range but 0.01mm resolution. A cost-effective choice for users who don’t require ultra-high resolution.

   Note: All three models above support auto gain adjustment, quality control (QC) mode, smartphone app connectivity, 999-group data storage, and max/min statistics, meeting various industrial measurement needs.

   LS216: A high-end model that supports multi-layer measurement (up to three layers simultaneously), using high-speed ADS data acquisition and offering a resolution of 1μm (0.001mm). The device also displays real-time waveform, making it perfect for composite materials and multilayer coatings.

4. Ensure After-Sales Support Is in Place

   Even the best instrument needs proper support. A good manufacturer will offer technical assistance, calibration services, and easy access to spare parts like probes. Companies like Linshang provide fast-response support, online documentation, and a service team to ensure your device runs smoothly over the long term.