What are the advantages and
disadvantages of micrometers?

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Advantages

Micrometers provide very accurate measurements

The micrometer is one of the most accurate types of measuring device.

Most micrometers can measure up to 0.001mm or 0.0001 inches.

Ratchet speeder helps to provide reliable measurements

The ratchet speeder/stop mechanism ensures that uniform pressure is applied to the thimble so that measurements are reliable and repeatable.

Integrated scales

As the sleeve scale and thimble scale are built into the tool, another measuring instrument such as a ruler or tape measure is not required.

Anvil micrometers

Micrometers used to measure large objects can be very expensive. 

However, anvil micrometers are a cost effective option for users who wish to take a large range of measurements.

These micrometers provide interchangeable anvils of a variety of different lengths so that multiple dimensions can be measured using a single frame.

Durability

Micrometers are very durable as a result of their baked enamel frame and tungsten carbide tipped measuring faces.

They are very long-lasting and are are unlikely to need replacing or repairing.

Speciality micrometers

There are a number of different types of specialty micrometers used to measure a particular type of work. 

For instance, blade micrometers are used to measure shrouded features such as grooves and paper thickness micrometers measure the thickness of paper. 

Disadvantages

Limited range

Most micrometers have a measuring range of only 25mm (metric) and 1″ (imperial).

This means that additional micrometers are required to measure objects that are larger than this.

Larger micrometers can be expensive

As a result of their size, micrometers used to take larger measurements can be very expensive compared to smaller micrometers.

Different types are required for different measuring tasks

Unlike dial calipers or vernier calipers which can take a number of different measurements (outside, inside, step and depth), micrometers are only capable of performing a single measuring task.

For instance, if you wanted to measure the diameter of a hole in a piece of wood as well as the outside width of that piece of wood, you would need both an inside micrometer and an outside micrometer.