The main difference between a Starrett test indicator and a Starrett dial gauge is that the former has lever-type contacts, whereas the latter has plunger-type contacts. The test indicators are also smaller & lighter as compared to dial gauges. Test indicators generally allow only a single revolution of the pointer around its dial in the clockwise direction, while the dial gauges may allow multiple revolutions of the pointer around its dial face in both clockwise and counterclockwise direction.