Best Lab Colorimeters of 2026

Brian Howie Avatar
Brian Howie
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2026

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Lab colorimeters are essential tools for color analysis in various industries, including printing, textiles, and paint manufacturing. These devices measure the intensity of light that is absorbed by a sample, providing accurate readings of its color composition. Lab colorimeters use advanced technology to provide precise and consistent results, making them ideal for quality control and product development. They come in different models, each with unique features that cater to specific needs. With Lab colorimeters, users can easily and quickly analyze color samples, ensuring that their products meet the desired color standards.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

COLOR MUSE Colorimeter Cover #TOP 1
COLOR MUSE Colorimeter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Nix Mini 3 Color Sensor Colorimeter Cover #TOP 2
Nix Mini 3 Color Sensor Colorimeter
ftb score rating icon 9.7
Hanna HI 711 Checker HC Handheld Colorimeter Cover #TOP 3
Hanna HI 711 Checker HC Handheld Colorimeter
ftb score rating icon 9.5

Top 10 Lab Colorimeters

#TOP 1

COLOR MUSE Colorimeter

9600
Silver (Aluminum)
1 Count (Pack of 1)
COLOR MUSE Colorimeter Cover
COLOR MUSE Colorimeter - Mobile Color Matching Tool - Instantly identify closest matching paint colors, products, and digital color values

The COLOR MUSE Colorimeter is a handy tool that lets you scan any flat surface to quickly find matching paint colors. It connects wirelessly to the Color Muse app, so you can take it anywhere for on-the-go color matching. With over 90% accuracy, you can trust it to give you reliable color matches for your painting projects, especially for full wall coverage. The app includes a huge library of paint brands, making it easy to find the perfect product. Plus, you can explore coordinating colors, save your favorites, and share your color scans along with detailed color codes for your creative needs.

What We Like
Portable wireless scanning
High color accuracy
Extensive paint brand library
Color coordination and sharing
#TOP 2

Nix Mini 3 Color Sensor Colorimeter

Nix
NIXMINI003
Black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
Nix Mini 3 Color Sensor Colorimeter Cover
Nix Mini 3 Color Sensor Colorimeter - Portable Color Matching Tool - Dust Debris and Splash Resistant (IPX4) - Identify and match paint and digital color values instantly

The Nix Mini 3 Color Sensor is a portable color matching tool that allows you to instantly identify and match paint and digital color values. With its scanning capabilities, you can easily match any object or surface to over 200,000 brand name paints. But it doesn't stop there - this colorimeter also provides instant RGB, HEX, CMYK, and more digital color values, making it a versatile tool for various color-related tasks. With a 95%+ hit rate on top paint brands, including Benjamin Moore, Behr, PPG, Valspar, and Sherwin-Williams, you can trust that it will deliver accurate results. Additionally, it offers instant matches to premium databases like Pantone, RAL, and NCS. The Nix Mini 3 Color Sensor is built to last, with no calibration required and a dust and water-resistant (IPX4) design. It's the perfect tool for professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike.

What We Like
Portable and easy to use
Instantly matches to 200,000+ brand name paints
Provides digital color values in various formats
#TOP 3

Hanna HI 711 Checker HC Handheld Colorimeter

HI-711
Blue
Hanna HI 711 Checker HC Handheld Colorimeter Cover
Hanna Instruments HI 711 Checker HC Handheld Colorimeter, For Total Chlorine

The Hanna HI 711 Checker HC Handheld Colorimeter is a more accurate and less expensive alternative to professional testing and traditional chemical test kits. The single-button operation makes it easy to use, and the large LCD screen ensures readability. It uses the EPA-approved DPD method 4500-Cl G, making it suitable for a variety of applications. Additionally, the auto shut-off feature helps extend battery life.

What We Like
More accurate than chemical test kits
Easy to use with single-button operation
Large LCD screen for readability
#TOP 4

COLOR MUSE 2 Colorimeter

9000
Black
COLOR MUSE 2 Colorimeter Cover
COLOR MUSE 2 Colorimeter Paint Color Matching Tool, Digital Color Values, Sensor, Reader for Paint Matching and Scanner for Painters & Designers

The COLOR MUSE 2 Colorimeter is a powerful tool for paint color matching and sheen level identification. With its compact size and Bluetooth pairing capability, this color reader device enables you to scan colors on any flat surface using the Color Muse app, providing accurate color matches wherever you go. Take the guesswork out of paint matching by measuring your surface's sheen with the Color Muse 2 colorimeter, which recognizes sheen levels like Flat/Matte, Eg-shell, Satin, Semi-Gloss, and High-Gloss. Trust in the COLOR MUSE 2 accuracy rate of over 95% for the best color matches. Access a wide range of paint and product colors from top brands through the comprehensive Color Muse app, making it easy to find the closest matching paint colors and sheen levels for your projects.

What We Like
Precise color matching
Portable and convenient
Identify sheen levels
#TOP 5

HACH DR300 Pocket Colorimeter

Cl, Free+Total, MR
HACH DR300 Pocket Colorimeter Cover
Hach DR300 Pocket Colorimeter, Chlorine, Free + Total, MR, Mid-Range, Waterproof, Portable, Free & Total Chlorine Photometer, for Reliable Water Quality Testing, with Carrying Case, LPV445.97.62110

The HACH DR300 Colorimeter is a portable, single-parameter photometer designed for easy testing of chlorine levels, both free and total. With battery operation allowing up to 5000 tests, you can take it anywhere without worrying about power sources. Its waterproof design (IP67) ensures durability, making it suitable for various environments, whether in the lab or the field. Plus, the instrument features data connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer and analyze your results. This combination of features provides you with a reliable and convenient tool for accurate water testing.

What We Like
Portable and lightweight
Long battery life
Waterproof design
Data connectivity
#TOP 6

Hach DR300 Pocket Colorimeter

LPV445.97.00110
Hach DR300 Pocket Colorimeter Cover
Hach DR300 Pocket Colorimeter, Chlorine, Free + Total, LR/HR, Waterproof, Portable, for Reliable Water Quality Testing, Easy-to-Use Interface, Large Backlit Display, with Carry Case, LPV445.97.00110

The Hach DR300 Colorimeter is a go-anywhere portable photometer designed for measuring chlorine levels. With its battery operation, you can perform up to 5000 tests without worrying about power supply. The waterproof feature (IP67) ensures the instrument remains protected even in wet environments. Additionally, the DR300 Colorimeter offers data connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer and analyze your test results. Please note that the DR300 Colorimeter does not come with chemical reagents, which must be purchased separately. With its compact size and convenient features, the Hach DR300 Colorimeter is a reliable tool for professionals in the lab or on the go.

What We Like
Portable
Battery operated
Waterproof
#TOP 7

Portable Color Analyzer for Industry Use

CTI
43217-96109
Portable Color Analyzer for Industry Use Cover
Portable Color Analyzer Digital Precise Colorimeter Color Difference Meter Tester 8mm CIELAB CIELCH Display Mode DE Lab Formula

This lab colorimeter is versatile and can be used in various industries, such as textile, printing, and dyeing. It ensures precise color analysis, quality control, and sample testing. The device is also suitable for use in injection molding, paint, and spray applications.

What We Like
Accurate and precise color analysis
Versatile use in various industries
Suitable for production line testing and sample testing
#TOP 8

VEYKOLOR Portable D/8 Colorimeter 8mm

ColorReader MAX
VEYKOLOR Portable D/8 Colorimeter 8mm Cover
Portable Colorimeter, D/8 Structure,8mm Caliber,Universal Colorimeters for Various Industries,Massive Storage of Data,Supporting APP and Computer Software

The VEYKOLOR Colorimeter 8mm is designed to give you precise color measurements with its built-in integrating sphere and 8mm aperture. This device uses a D/8 structure, which means it captures color data more realistically, helping you get accurate results. It offers a wide range of light sources to choose from, so you can match different lighting conditions easily. Plus, with 33 measurement options like RGB and Lab, you can analyze colors in the way that suits your needs best. This colorimeter also supports four different color difference formulas, letting you compare colors with high accuracy and confidence.

What We Like
Accurate D/8 measurement structure
Multiple light source options
Wide range of color parameters
Supports various color difference formulas
#TOP 9

COLOR MUSE SE Colorimeter Paint Matcher

9800
Black
1 Count (Pack of 1)
COLOR MUSE SE Colorimeter Paint Matcher Cover
COLOR MUSE SE Colorimeter, Paint Color Matching Tool, Portable Digital Color Values, Reader, Sensor, Identify Closest Matching Paint and Scanner Device for Painters, Designers

The COLOR MUSE SE Colorimeter offers a sleek, premium design with a special matte black finish and precise laser-etched labels, giving you a stylish and durable tool. Its wireless feature and easy integration with the Color Muse app let you scan any flat surface quickly, making color matching simple and portable. You can trust this device to provide accurate color matches for large painting projects, ensuring your walls look consistent and true to the original color. Plus, with access to a vast color library from top brands like Sherwin-Williams and Benjamin Moore, you have plenty of options to find the perfect shade for your project.

What We Like
Premium matte black design
Wireless and portable use
High color matching accuracy
Extensive paint color library
#TOP 10

FRU WR10QC Handheld Digital Colorimeter

FRU
WR10QC
FRU WR10QC Handheld Digital Colorimeter Cover
Handheld Color Analyzer Digital Precise Colorimeter WR10QC Precision Color Difference Meter Tester Portable Colorimeter with 4mm Aperture for Color Checking

The FRU WR10QC Colorimeter is a high-precision handheld device designed to help you measure color differences accurately. It features a bilingual menu in Chinese and English, making it user-friendly no matter your language preference. When you turn it on, it automatically corrects itself to ensure reliable results every time. The device is energy-efficient, equipped with a long-lasting lithium battery so you can work longer without worrying about power. With ultra-stable performance and a display accuracy of 0.01, it guarantees precise color measurements, which is perfect for quality control in various industries. This makes the FRU WR10QC Colorimeter a practical tool for anyone needing exact color analysis.

What We Like
High precision accuracy
Dual language menu
Automatic startup correction
Long-lasting lithium battery
Energy efficient
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is colorimeter used for in the laboratory?

A colorimeter, also known as a digital colorimeter, is used in a laboratory to measure the absorption of light wavelengths by a sample at a specific frequency or color. It is commonly used in biochemistry laboratories for various applications.

2. What is a colorimeter in food analysis?

In food analysis, a colorimeter is used to quantify the color of food products. This measurement is important for food producers and retailers to ensure food quality and meet standards. By using a colorimeter, objective and accurate color measurements can be obtained, as human perception of color can vary.

3. What is the difference between a colorimeter and a spectrophotometer?

While both instruments measure color, a colorimeter is mainly used for color difference measurements in production and inspection applications. On the other hand, a spectrophotometer is used for high-precision analysis and accurate color management in laboratory and research and development settings.

4. What are the different types of colorimeters?

Colorimeters come in three types: tristimulus colorimeters, densitometers, and spectrophotometers. Each type has its own specific applications and capabilities for measuring the color of a light source.

5. How do you use a colorimeter to measure concentration?

To use a colorimeter for measuring concentration, you need to determine the wavelength of light to use for the analysis. Then, prepare a set of standard solutions with known concentrations. Measure the absorbance of each standard solution using the colorimeter, and plot the absorbance vs. concentration on a graph.

6. What kind of samples are analyzed by colorimetry?

Colorimetry is used in the quantitative analysis of various compounds, such as proteins, glucose, and other biochemical compounds. It is also used for testing water quality and determining the concentration of hemoglobin in blood.

7. What are the 2 types of colorimeter?

The two types of colorimeters used for measuring color are tristimulus colorimeters and spectrophotometers. Each type has its own specific applications and capabilities.

8. Why use a spectrophotometer instead of a colorimeter?

Spectrophotometers offer more advanced capabilities and can provide more in-depth measurements than colorimeters. They can measure spectral data and are therefore more suitable for precise measurements in research and development or laboratory use.

9. What is a colorimeter used to measure color?

A colorimeter is used to measure the absorbance of light waves. It measures the change in the intensity of electromagnetic radiation in the visible wavelength region of the spectrum after transmitting or reflecting off an object or solution.

Editor's Notes

During our lab colorimeter research, we found 24 lab colorimeter products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 14,903 customer reviews through our big data system to write the lab colorimeters list. We found that most customers choose lab colorimeters with an average price of $196.97.

The lab colorimeters are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of lab colorimeters, including COLOR MUSE, Nix, Hanna Instruments, HACH, CTI. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 12 consumers with an average rating of 4.6.

Written by
Brian Howie Avatar

Brian Howie is a content writer and senior industrial designer. After graduation from Westminster College, he has been engaged in product design and manufacturing for 18 years. Brian Howie has always found great pleasure in designing industrial products and sharing his ideas and experience online.