How to Compare Analog Clocks and Digital Clocks

Analog clocks have a clock face as well as hands that move to tell the time.  Digital clocks display the time electronically using led lights to represent the numbers on the display.  Both analog and digital clocks keep accurate time.

• Look at the face of the clock to determine if it is analog or digital. An analog clock has a face, which displays 12 hours.  Two hands move to indicate the hour and minutes.  Some clocks have a third hand to represent seconds.  The digital clock has led light numbers on the display.  The numbers represent the hour, minutes and sometimes seconds.


• Inspect the clock to reveal the workings. Analog clocks use gears, mainsprings and pendulums to operate.  Digital clocks use crystal oscillators, which use electric charges to get the signals used to tell the time.


• Compare the setting mechanisms.  Digital clocks are set using buttons and other features on the clock.  Analog clocks are simple to set and can be done in a few seconds.  There is a small knob on the side that is pulled to move the minute clock hand.


• Decide the function for which you will be using the clock.  If you need to use functions such as a stopwatch, or if you want to tell the temperature you may require a digital clock. Digital clocks are sometimes easier for children to use.  Some analog clocks need to be wound every day.  Failure to due this will compromise the clocks accuracy.


• Consider the appearance and the cost of the clock.  Analog clocks are often more decorative than digital clocks.