Compare Portable Hardness Tester Brands in Canada (2025)
Popular Brands of Portable Hardness Testers in Canada
Explore top-rated brands such as Phase II, REED, Starrett, and Mitutoyo. We cover how each performs in Canadian field conditions, from rugged castings to precision lab work.
What to Look for When Comparing Testers
Understand key buying factors like test method (Leeb vs UCI), impact device compatibility, display type, and calibration traceability.
Warranty, Accuracy, and Service Considerations
Weigh how serviceability, warranty length, and technical support affect long-term value for Canadian QA teams and NDT professionals.
Explore the top-rated portable hardness tester brands trusted by Canadian professionals. From field-rugged models to lab-grade digital systems, this guide compares compliance, price range, warranty, and use case by brand — helping you choose the right solution for your testing needs.
Quick Comparison Table
| Brand | Best For | ASTM/ISO | Warranty | Price (CAD) | Ships From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Phase II | Field testing, pipelines | ASTM A956 | 5 years | $1,695–$2,995 | Amazon.ca / U.S. |
| Mitutoyo | Precision lab work | ASTM A956, ISO 16859 | 1 year | $4,300–$5,500+ | CDN Distributors |
| Starrett | QA shops | ASTM A956 | 1 year | $2,500–$3,800 | Canada / U.S. |
| REED | Budget field use | ASTM A956 | 1 year | $1,200–$2,000 | Amazon.ca |
| Extech | Durometer / Rubber | Shore A, HL | 1 year | $1,000–$2,200 | Amazon.ca |
| Proceq | High-end field + lab | ASTM A956, ISO, UCI | Varies | $4,000–$9,000 | Canada / EU |
Phase II – Rugged Testers for Field & Shop Use
Overview: U.S.-based brand offering ASTM A956 compliant testers built for industrial field conditions.
- 5-year warranty, rugged casing
- USB output, memory, conversion scales
- Best for pipeline, forging, and QA teams
Top Models:
PHT-1900 (~$2,495 CAD) – Buy on Amazon
PHT-6005 (~$1,695 CAD)
Mitutoyo – Precision for Lab-Based QA & Calibration
Overview: Japanese metrology giant delivering ISO 16859 & ASTM A956-certified devices for high-precision work.
- Ideal for aerospace, calibration labs
- Auto-averaging, printer/data output
- 1-year warranty, high accuracy
Top Models:
HH-411 (~$5,200 CAD)
HH-335 (microhardness)
Starrett – Digital Simplicity for QA Shops
Overview: Trusted U.S. toolmaker offering straightforward Leeb testers for shop-floor QA and maintenance.
- Simple digital interface, direct scale readout
- ASTM A956 compliant
- Ideal for fabrication shops and light industrial
Top Models:
3811A (~$2,595 CAD)
3822 (~$3,200 CAD)
REED – Budget-Friendly Portable Hardness Testers
Overview: Canadian-accessible brand offering compact Leeb-type testers ideal for small business and field QA.
- Pen-style format, entry-level usability
- Ships via Amazon.ca
- 1-year warranty, ASTM A956 compliance
Top Models:
R9030 (~$1,795 CAD) – Buy on SIHB
Extech – Entry-Level & Specialty Durometer Options
Overview: FLIR-owned brand offering budget-friendly testers for soft materials (rubber, plastics) and light-duty metal testing.
- Shore A durometer and Leeb options
- Common in educational and tool supplier environments
- Ships quickly in Canada via Amazon.ca
Top Models:
HD-400 (Shore A) – ~$1,050 CAD
RHDT-1300 (Leeb) – ~$2,195 CAD
Proceq (Equotip) – High-End Multi-Mode Testing
Overview: Swiss-engineered testing platform combining UCI, Leeb, and portable Rockwell. Best for aerospace, pipelines, and lab-field hybrid use.
- Equotip Live & Equotip 550 series
- ASTM A956, ISO 16859, UCI compliant
- Advanced data logging, wireless probes
Top Models:
Equotip 550 (~$9,000+ CAD) – View on Screening Eagle
Still deciding? Use our Buying Checklist or email us at info@testavor.ca for personalized support.