Finding reliable Linear Encoder Manufacturers in the UK is becoming increasingly challenging as industries demand higher accuracy, faster production, and smarter automation. Whether you're upgrading CNC machines, optimizing robotics, or building next-generation semiconductor or battery production lines, choosing the right linear encoder supplier directly impacts long-term stability, precision, and system performance.
In 2025, the UK remains home to several world-class motion control companies offering magnetic, optical, and high-resolution linear encoder solutions. But with different technologies, pricing models, and durability levels, many engineers struggle to identify which manufacturer truly fits their project needs.
This guide highlights the Top 10 Linear Encoders Manufacturers in the UK 2025, helping you compare capabilities, product strengths, and application suitability—so you can confidently choose a partner that boosts accuracy and reliability in every motion control system.
Explore the list below, compare your options, and contact your preferred supplier to check specifications or request a quote today.
| Top 10 Linear Encoders Manufacturers in the UK 2025 |
|---|
| 1. Renishaw |
| 2. Hopo Tech |
| 3. Solartron Metrology |
| 4. HEIDENHAIN (G.B.) Ltd |
| 5. Newall Measurement Systems |
| 6. Encoder Technology (UK) |
| 7. Encoders UK Ltd |
| 8. Physik Instrumente (PI) Ltd |
| 9. Balluff (UK operations) |
| 10. Micro-Epsilon Group |
Main Products: Magnetic & optical linear scales and encoder systems
Introduction: Renishaw is one of the UK’s best-known precision metrology firms and a global leader in linear encoders and position-feedback systems. Renishaw’s product portfolio includes high-accuracy optical scales, magnetic linear encoders (e.g., LM10), and robust tape/steel spar scales designed for machine tools, CMMs and industrial automation. Their encoder platforms (optical, magnetic, interferometric) are engineered for sub-micron resolution, long travel ranges and strong environmental immunity — making Renishaw a top choice for OEMs requiring high-precision linear measurement. For UK and international users, Renishaw combines in-house manufacturing, extensive documentation and field support to speed integration and reduce downtime.
Main Products: Magnetic Linear Encoders, Optical Linear Encoders
Introduction: Hopo Tech is a leading precision motion control solutions provider specializing in magnetic and optical encoders, digital readouts, and customized positioning systems. With over 15 years of experience, Hopo has become a trusted Linear Encoder Manufacturer delivering high-performance magnetic linear encoders, optical linear encoders, and rotary encoder systems for advanced automation. Supported by patented algorithms, ISO 9001 and CE certifications, and strong R&D capabilities, Hopo ensures exceptional accuracy, long-term stability, and reliable performance in CNC machines, robotics, semiconductor equipment, lithium battery manufacturing, and PV production. Today, Hopo Tech continues to innovate, offering cost-effective encoder solutions and fast technical support for global motion control applications.
Main Products: High-accuracy optical linear encoders and gauges, digital/analog linear probes
Introduction: Solartron Metrology — now part of AMETEK — is a long-established UK manufacturer of precision linear encoders and displacement transducers. Their product range covers high-resolution optical linear encoders, digital gauges and displacement probes used across metrology, test & measurement and machine control. Solartron/AMETEK emphasises rugged, high-repeatability encoders suitable for sub-micron gauging and production environments, plus instrumentation and signal conditioning tailored to industrial systems. With a UK base and decades of encoder design experience, Solartron remains a go-to supplier for engineers needing durable optical linear scale solutions and matched electronics for reliable position feedback.
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Main Products: Sealed and open linear scales (absolute & incremental), glass and steel scale systems
Introduction: HEIDENHAIN is a world leader in linear measurement systems and, through its UK branch and authorised distributors, supplies high-performance linear encoders used extensively in CNC machine tools and precision equipment. HEIDENHAIN linear scales (sealed/enclosed, miniature and high-accuracy versions) are known for low non-linearity, robust housings and excellent mounting options for machine-tool slides. While HEIDENHAIN’s global HQ is German, their UK operations provide local sales, application support and service — key for manufacturers and retrofitters who require quick access to spare parts, calibration and installation expertise. HEIDENHAIN linear encoders are common where absolute accuracy and machine reliability are mission-critical.
Main Products: Inductive/inductive-type linear encoders and scales (absolute & incremental)
Introduction: Newall (now part of larger measurement groups) is a British-origin company known for durable linear encoders and digital readouts (DROs) for machine tools. Newall’s product line includes absolute and incremental linear scales, sealed reader-head systems and long-travel encoders designed for harsh shopfloor environments (oil, coolant, chips). Their encoders are valued for IP-rated enclosures, ease of retrofit and compatibility with industry-standard counters and DROs — making Newall a frequent choice for metalworking, CNC retrofit projects and industrial measurement where reliable linear position feedback is required. Newall’s UK heritage means strong local support and replacement-parts availability.
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Main Products: Incremental & absolute linear encoder modules, incremental linear readheads
Introduction: Encoder Technology (UK-based supplier / manufacturer) offers a broad range of linear encoders including incremental, absolute and cable-retract linear solutions. Their product mix is geared to motion control, robotics and industrial automation — with options for programmable outputs, robust housings, and bespoke mounting kits. Encoder Technology blends off-the-shelf linear encoder modules with custom engineering support so OEMs can specify resolution, interface (TTL, HTL, BiSS, Sin/Cos) and environmental ratings to match machine requirements. Their UK service and quick-turn support make them attractive to manufacturers seeking flexible linear encoder solutions with local technical assistance.
Main Products: Supply & repair inventory for linear scales and readheads
Introduction: Encoders UK is a long-standing British encoder specialist that supplies, repairs and remanufactures linear and rotary encoders. While primarily known for supply & repair services, they maintain close OEM partnerships and authorised distribution for major linear encoder brands (including HEIDENHAIN). Their UK-based repair centre shortens lead times for maintenance and supports continuity for production lines that use linear encoder feedback. Encoders UK is therefore an essential part of the UK linear-encoder ecosystem — offering spares, emergency repair, calibrated replacements and advice on linear encoder selection for retrofit or new machinery.
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Main Products: Ultra-high-resolution linear scale encoders (PIOne interferometric/optical encoders)
Introduction: Physik Instrumente (PI) provides ultra-high precision motion systems and linear scale encoders for nanopositioning and scientific applications; PI’s UK office supports sales, service and small-scale assembly. PI linear encoders are used in long-travel nanopositioners, interferometric stages and semiconductor inspection tooling where sub-nanometre resolution and closed-loop stability are required. For UK research labs and high-end OEMs, PI combines precision encoder technologies with piezo- and voice-coil actuators to deliver complete nanopositioning systems with integrated linear feedback — ideal where ultimate resolution and stability are top priorities.
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Main Products: Magnetic linear encoder systems (magnetic tapes + readheads, BML family), compact absolute magnetic encoders
Introduction: Balluff is an international sensing specialist with strong UK distribution and support; their magnetic linear encoders (BML family) provide robust, non-contact absolute measurement for long travel applications. Balluff’s magnetic tapes and compact readheads are engineered for high system availability, resistance to contamination and long measuring ranges — great for industrial automation, material handling and harsh environments. With UK sales & technical channels, Balluff is a practical option for engineers seeking magnetic linear-encoder alternatives to optical scales where debris or fluids could affect performance.
Main Products: Draw-wire sensors (e.g., K and MK series), inductive displacement sensors, and high-precision linear position sensors.
Introduction: Micro-Epsilon Group is a leading manufacturer of precision measurement technology, specializing in linear encoders UK for industrial applications. With a history of innovation in high-precision sensors, the company provides cutting-edge solutions for automation and machine building. Key achievements include offering the largest range of displacement sensors and systems trusted by over 30,000 users worldwide. As experts in precision linear encoders, they deliver optical linear encoders renowned for accuracy and reliability. Main linear encoder products include draw-wire sensors like K and MK series, designed for OEM and series integration with compact dimensions and excellent price-performance ratio, ideal for position feedback in challenging environments.
Choosing the right Linear Encoder Manufacturers is essential for ensuring accuracy, reliability, and long-term performance in any motion-control system. The top linear encoder manufacturers in the UK share several key advantages: strong engineering capabilities, proven product quality, advanced measurement technologies, and the ability to provide tailored solutions across automation, robotics, CNC machinery, and industrial equipment. These companies continue to push innovation forward, helping businesses achieve higher precision and improved efficiency.
Why Hopo Tech Stands Out
Among all the Linear Encoder Manufacturers in this list, Hopo Tech deserves special attention.
They offer:
Highly accurate linear encoder solutions suitable for demanding industrial applications
Competitive pricing without sacrificing stability or durability
Strong customization support for OEM and specialized equipment
Fast delivery and technical responsiveness that many brands lack
If you are looking for a trusted partner with both quality and service advantages, Hopo Tech is a top choice worth considering.
Take the Next Step
Whether you need standard options or custom-built linear measurement systems, now is the best time to reach out.
Check product options, compare specifications, and request a quote today to find the right solution for your application.
