Nearest E-Series Value
Snap your computed resistance to a standard value you can actually buy off the shelf — E6 to E96.
What it does: Snap any theoretical value to the nearest E-series standard value and show the error.
When to use it: After computing a resistor/capacitor, when you need to pick a nominal value you can actually buy.
MEANS The nearest E24 standard value is —, with an error of —.
No history yet. Each calculation is automatically saved to this device.
How to use the nearest E-series value finder
Enter a value, pick a series.
- 01
Enter the target value
The theoretical value you computed, e.g.
4700,4.7k,2.37k. - 02
Pick an E series
E24 is the most common 5% resistor; for more precision use E96 (1%).
- 03
Read the nearest standard values
Gives the nearest / round-up / round-down shelf standard values, each with its relative error.
E series and tolerance
The denser the series, the more standard values and the tighter the tolerance.
| Series | Values per decade | Typical tolerance |
|---|---|---|
| E6 | 6 | ±20% |
| E12 | 12 | ±10% |
| E24 | 24 | ±5% |
| E48 | 48 | ±2% |
| E96 | 96 | ±1% |
IEC 60063 series of preferred numbers.
Common questions, answered in 3 minutes
Why can't I buy the exact resistance I computed?
Resistors are mass-produced on E-series preferred numbers, so only these standard values are on the shelf. Just snap the theoretical value to the nearest E-series value; the error is usually within tolerance.
How do I choose between E24 and E96?
E24 is the common 5% resistor, adequate and cheap; when you need 1% precision (e.g. a divider reference or op-amp feedback) choose E96.
Should I round up or down?
It depends on the use: for current limiting round up (safer, lower current), for dividers/gain round to nearest (smallest error). This tool gives all three.
What if I can't get close enough?
Approximate it with two standard resistors in series/parallel — use the series/parallel resistor calculator.
Standards and sources referenced by this tool
| Item | Value / Formula | Source |
|---|---|---|
| E-series preferred numbers | E6 / E12 / E24 / E48 / E96 | IEC 60063:2015 |
Standard values come from IEC 60063:2015, no external API.