Gloss Meter — Used BYK Gardner HAZE-GLOSS 4601 (BYK Gardner)

How Much Does Used BYK Gardner HAZE-GLOSS 4601 Cost in 2026?

The used BYK Gardner HAZE-GLOSS 4601 typically sells in the $6,500 range in 2026, with prices remaining stable across most condition tiers. Units in "B" grade condition, which is common for this model, are priced around $6,500. Higher-grade units, such as those with full calibration and less than 5 years of use, may command up to $7,000, though these are rare. Refurbished units from vendors like Ferrotec and Axus Technology are often the most reliable and come with a 12-month warranty.

Compared to a new HAZE-GLOSS 4601, which costs between $15,000 and $18,000, the used version offers savings of 40–60%. This can translate into significant cost avoidance—up to $6,000–$10,000—which is critical in semiconductor environments where equipment downtime can cost $10,000+ per hour.

However, caution is required. Units with more than 10,000 measurement cycles or those over 10 years old may require more frequent recalibration, increasing long-term maintenance costs. Always verify the unit’s service history and calibration status before purchase.

Used BYK Gardner HAZE-GLOSS 4601 Specifications and Compatible Tools

The HAZE-GLOSS 4601 is a benchtop gloss and haze meter commonly used in coating, glass, and semiconductor applications. It typically measures gloss at 20°, 60°, and 85° angles, and haze at 60°. The device is known for its repeatability of ±0.5 gloss units and a measurement range of 0–2,000 gloss units. It typically weighs around 12 kg and requires a 110–240V power supply.

The unit is compatible with older BYK Gardner software versions, such as BYK-Gardner WinGloss 3.0 (2010–2015). However, it is not compatible with newer systems like WinGloss 5.1 due to outdated communication protocols. Attempting to use it with incompatible software can lead to data loss and system errors, potentially causing $2,000–$5,000 in rework costs.

The typical lifecycle of a HAZE-GLOSS 4601 is around 10–12 years, with a maximum of 15,000 measurement cycles before sensor degradation becomes a concern. Always verify the unit’s age and usage history before purchase.

What to Check Before Buying a Used BYK Gardner HAZE-GLOSS 4601 in 2026

1. Calibration Status: Ensure the unit has a valid calibration certificate. Units older than 5 years may require recalibration, which can cost $800–$1,200. Reject any unit without a calibration history.

2. Sensor Wear: Check for sensor wear by running a NIST-traceable standard tile test. A deviation of more than ±1.5 gloss units from the standard indicates sensor degradation, which can lead to $3,000+ in incorrect quality control costs.

3. Software Compatibility: Confirm the unit is compatible with your existing software. If it predates 2015, it may not work with newer systems. This incompatibility could result in $1,500–$2,500 in integration costs.

4. Physical Condition: Look for signs of physical damage, especially to the sensor head. A cracked or misaligned sensor head is a hard reject. Such damage can cause $2,000+ in repair costs and downtime.

5. Production Year: Units produced before 2012 may use older light sources that degrade faster. Units from 2013 onward typically use more durable LEDs. A unit older than 2012 may require more frequent maintenance, increasing long-term costs.

FAQ

Q: How does the used HAZE-GLOSS 4601 compare to the newer HAZE-GLOSS 4602?
A: The 4602 model offers improved sensor accuracy and a touchscreen interface. However, the 4601 is still widely used and costs $6,500–$7,000 used, while the 4602 new costs $18,000+. The 4601 is a cost-effective option for labs that don’t need the latest features.

Q: Can I use the HAZE-GLOSS 4601 with BYK-Gardner WinGloss 5.1?
A: No. The 4601 is not compatible with WinGloss 5.1 due to outdated communication protocols. Attempting to use it can result in $2,000–$5,000 in rework costs.

Q: How long does a used HAZE-GLOSS 4601 typically last?
A: With proper maintenance, a used unit can last 8–10 years. Beyond 10,000 measurement cycles, sensor degradation becomes more likely, increasing the risk of $1,000–$3,000 in calibration and repair costs.

Q: Should I buy a used HAZE-GLOSS 4601 if I only need it for 2 years?
A: Yes, if the unit is in "B" grade condition and under 8 years old. A used unit can save $6,000–$10,000 compared to a new one. However, avoid units over 10 years old, as they may require more frequent calibration and maintenance.

Q: What is the typical lead time after sourcing a used HAZE-GLOSS 4601?
A: Lead times are typically 2–4 weeks after sourcing, depending on the vendor and shipping logistics. Units from Ferrotec or Axus Technology may be available faster if they have stock.