The best non-contact rotary encoder depends on the resolution, output interface, and controller setup your project needs. The MT6701 module is suited to buyers seeking 14-bit absolute measurement with SPI and PWM, while the AS5048A offers 14-bit sensing with PWM or I2C. For simpler 12-bit magnetic sensing, consider the AS5600 modules. The Hall-effect sensor provides an analog output; the optical encoder is an incremental alternative, not a magnetic absolute encoder.
| Product | Best suited for | Key specifications |
|---|---|---|
| MT6701 modules | Digital absolute angle feedback | 14-bit, SPI and PWM, 3.0–5.5 V |
| AS5048A | Microcontroller projects needing interface options | 14-bit, PWM or I2C |
| AS5600 modules | Multiple projects or output flexibility | 12-bit, I2C, PWM, voltage |
| Hall-effect angle sensor | Analog full-turn angle measurement | 360°, 0–3.3 V output |
| Optical rotary encoder | Incremental quadrature counting | 600 PPR, A/B output |
MT6701 14-Bit Magnetic Encoder Modules
Best for: Projects that need absolute position feedback and a choice of digital output methods. This two-piece set uses non-contact magnetic sensing and provides 14-bit angle measurement across a full 0–360° range. Its SPI and PWM outputs offer different ways to pass position information to a controller.
The absolute measurement design reports angle without cumulative counting error, making it a useful option for position control and angle tracking. The listed supply range is 3.0–5.5 V.
Limitation: The product information does not specify magnet dimensions or mounting details. Check the module’s installation requirements before designing the shaft and magnet arrangement.
AS5048A Magnetic Encoder
Best for: Microcontroller projects that need 14-bit absolute angle measurement and a choice of PWM or I2C. The AS5048A uses non-contact magnetic sensing, so angle is measured without a mechanical sensing contact between the chip and paired magnet.
The listing describes a 14-bit rotary position interface, PWM output, and tolerance for some variation in magnet alignment, air gap, and temperature. It lists an operating temperature range from -40°C to +150°C. These details make it a candidate for designs where setup conditions may vary, while still requiring attention to the sensor’s installation guidance.
Limitation: The listing does not provide a complete wiring diagram or magnet specification. Confirm the interface and mechanical requirements for your application.
UMLIFE AS5600 Magnetic Encoder Modules
Best for: Buyers who want three modules or need flexibility among digital, pulse-width, and analog-style outputs. Each AS5600 module is a 12-bit non-contact magnetic angle sensor, with I2C, PWM, and voltage output modes listed.
Compared with the 14-bit MT6701 and AS5048A options, the AS5600 has a lower stated resolution. It may suit projects where 12-bit measurement and multiple output choices are sufficient. The package includes three encoder modules, which can be useful when building several units or keeping spares.
Limitation: The product listing does not state a supply-voltage range or detailed magnet requirements. Verify these before connecting the module to a circuit.
CALT Hall-Effect Angle Sensor
Best for: Buyers seeking a compact Hall-effect sensor with an analog voltage output for full-turn measurement. The listed sensor measures across 360°, has a 6 mm shaft, and provides a 0–3.3 V output. Its outer diameter is listed as 22 mm.
Choose this option when an analog output is a better fit for the system than SPI, I2C, or quadrature signals. The listing identifies a 5 V supply voltage, so check that this matches the intended circuit and readout setup.
Limitation: The listing does not give a bit-depth specification or describe digital communications. It is not the best match if a 14-bit digital angle interface is a requirement.
600 PPR Incremental Optical Encoder
Best for: Projects that need incremental A/B quadrature signals rather than absolute magnetic angle measurement. This encoder is listed with 600 pulses per revolution, a 6 mm shaft, and a 5–24 V DC operating range.
Quadrature output can support rotation and direction counting when paired with suitable controller logic. It provides a useful comparison for buyers evaluating encoder types, but the provided product details do not identify it as a non-contact magnetic sensor or specify an absolute angle output.
Limitation: Unlike the magnetic absolute encoders above, this is an incremental optical encoder. It may not suit a design that must report absolute shaft angle directly after startup.
Buying Guide
Do you need absolute or incremental position?
An absolute encoder reports a position within its stated angle range, such as 0–360°. The MT6701 and AS5048A listings specify 14-bit absolute measurement; the AS5600 is listed as 12-bit. An incremental encoder such as the 600 PPR optical model provides pulses that must be counted to track movement. Choose based on whether your controller needs an angle reading or a movement count.
Which output should you choose?
Match the encoder output to the controller and software you plan to use. SPI and I2C provide digital communication, PWM carries angle information through pulse timing, analog voltage can be read by an appropriate input, and A/B quadrature uses two pulse channels. Check the product’s wiring and signal requirements before connecting it.
How much resolution is enough?
Higher bit depth allows more finely divided digital angle readings, but the useful resolution depends on the application and system design. The listed 14-bit models provide more nominal angle divisions than the 12-bit AS5600. A 600 PPR specification describes an incremental encoder’s pulse output, so it is not directly interchangeable with an absolute encoder’s bit depth.
What should you verify before buying?
Confirm the supply voltage, interface, shaft or magnet arrangement, installation space, and controller input requirements. Product details vary: for example, some listings omit magnet dimensions, wiring diagrams, or voltage information. Do not assume modules are interchangeable solely because they use magnetic sensing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a non-contact rotary encoder?
It measures rotation without a mechanical sensing contact at the measurement point. Magnetic encoder modules use a magnetic field to determine shaft angle.
Is a magnetic rotary encoder absolute?
Not always. Check the specific product. The MT6701, AS5048A, and AS5600 listings specify absolute angle measurement; the optical model is identified as incremental.
What is the difference between 12-bit and 14-bit resolution?
Bit depth indicates how many digital position values are available across the measurement range. A 14-bit reading offers more nominal divisions than a 12-bit reading.
Can I use PWM instead of SPI or I2C?
Only if the encoder and controller support compatible PWM signaling and the software can interpret it. The MT6701 and AS5048A listings include PWM options.
Does 600 PPR mean 600 absolute positions?
No. PPR describes pulses per revolution for an incremental encoder. It does not mean the encoder directly reports an absolute angle after power-up.