Optical Encoders Market Report – Research, Industry Analysis Reports and Market Demands

Global Optical Encoders Market 2026 by Manufacturers, Regions, Type and Application, Forecast to 2032

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Table of Content

1 Market Overview

1.1 Product Overview and Scope
1.2 Market Estimation Caveats and Base Year
1.3 Market Analysis by Type
- 1.3.1 Overview: Global Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Type: 2021 Versus 2025 Versus 2032
- 1.3.2 Incremental Encoders
- 1.3.3 Absolute Encoders
1.4 Market Analysis by Measurement Type
- 1.4.1 Overview: Global Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Measurement Type: 2021 Versus 2025 Versus 2032
- 1.4.2 Rotary Optical Encoders
- 1.4.3 Linear Optical Encoders
1.5 Market Analysis by Mechanical Construction
- 1.5.1 Overview: Global Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Mechanical Construction: 2021 Versus 2025 Versus 2032
- 1.5.2 Shaft Encoders
- 1.5.3 Hollow-Shaft Encoders
- 1.5.4 Ring Encoders
- 1.5.5 Others
1.6 Market Analysis by Optical Principle
- 1.6.1 Overview: Global Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Optical Principle: 2021 Versus 2025 Versus 2032
- 1.6.2 Transmissive
- 1.6.3 Reflective
- 1.6.4 Interferential
1.7 Market Analysis by Application
- 1.7.1 Overview: Global Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Application: 2021 Versus 2025 Versus 2032
- 1.7.2 Healthcare
- 1.7.3 Machine Tool
- 1.7.4 Consumer Electronics
- 1.7.5 Assembly Equipment
- 1.7.6 Other
1.8 Global Optical Encoders Market Size & Forecast
- 1.8.1 Global Optical Encoders Consumption Value (2021 & 2025 & 2032)
- 1.8.2 Global Optical Encoders Sales Quantity (2021-2032)
- 1.8.3 Global Optical Encoders Average Price (2021-2032)

2 Manufacturers Profiles

3 Competitive Environment: Optical Encoders by Manufacturer

3.1 Global Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Manufacturer (2021-2026)
3.2 Global Optical Encoders Revenue by Manufacturer (2021-2026)
3.3 Global Optical Encoders Average Price by Manufacturer (2021-2026)
3.4 Market Share Analysis (2025)
- 3.4.1 Producer Shipments of Optical Encoders by Manufacturer Revenue ($MM) and Market Share (%): 2025
- 3.4.2 Top 3 Optical Encoders Manufacturer Market Share in 2025
- 3.4.3 Top 6 Optical Encoders Manufacturer Market Share in 2025
3.5 Optical Encoders Market: Overall Company Footprint Analysis
- 3.5.1 Optical Encoders Market: Region Footprint
- 3.5.2 Optical Encoders Market: Company Product Type Footprint
- 3.5.3 Optical Encoders Market: Company Product Application Footprint
3.6 New Market Entrants and Barriers to Market Entry
3.7 Mergers, Acquisition, Agreements, and Collaborations

4 Consumption Analysis by Region

4.1 Global Optical Encoders Market Size by Region
- 4.1.1 Global Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Region (2021-2032)
- 4.1.2 Global Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Region (2021-2032)
- 4.1.3 Global Optical Encoders Average Price by Region (2021-2032)
4.2 North America Optical Encoders Consumption Value (2021-2032)
4.3 Europe Optical Encoders Consumption Value (2021-2032)
4.4 Asia-Pacific Optical Encoders Consumption Value (2021-2032)
4.5 South America Optical Encoders Consumption Value (2021-2032)
4.6 Middle East & Africa Optical Encoders Consumption Value (2021-2032)

5 Market Segment by Type

5.1 Global Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Type (2021-2032)
5.2 Global Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Type (2021-2032)
5.3 Global Optical Encoders Average Price by Type (2021-2032)

6 Market Segment by Application

6.1 Global Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Application (2021-2032)
6.2 Global Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Application (2021-2032)
6.3 Global Optical Encoders Average Price by Application (2021-2032)

7 North America

7.1 North America Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Type (2021-2032)
7.2 North America Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Application (2021-2032)
7.3 North America Optical Encoders Market Size by Country
- 7.3.1 North America Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Country (2021-2032)
- 7.3.2 North America Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Country (2021-2032)
- 7.3.3 United States Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 7.3.4 Canada Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 7.3.5 Mexico Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)

8 Europe

8.1 Europe Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Type (2021-2032)
8.2 Europe Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Application (2021-2032)
8.3 Europe Optical Encoders Market Size by Country
- 8.3.1 Europe Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Country (2021-2032)
- 8.3.2 Europe Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Country (2021-2032)
- 8.3.3 Germany Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 8.3.4 France Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 8.3.5 United Kingdom Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 8.3.6 Russia Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 8.3.7 Italy Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)

9 Asia-Pacific

9.1 Asia-Pacific Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Type (2021-2032)
9.2 Asia-Pacific Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Application (2021-2032)
9.3 Asia-Pacific Optical Encoders Market Size by Region
- 9.3.1 Asia-Pacific Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Region (2021-2032)
- 9.3.2 Asia-Pacific Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Region (2021-2032)
- 9.3.3 China Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 9.3.4 Japan Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 9.3.5 South Korea Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 9.3.6 India Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 9.3.7 Southeast Asia Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 9.3.8 Australia Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)

10 South America

10.1 South America Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Type (2021-2032)
10.2 South America Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Application (2021-2032)
10.3 South America Optical Encoders Market Size by Country
- 10.3.1 South America Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Country (2021-2032)
- 10.3.2 South America Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Country (2021-2032)
- 10.3.3 Brazil Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 10.3.4 Argentina Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)

11 Middle East & Africa

11.1 Middle East & Africa Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Type (2021-2032)
11.2 Middle East & Africa Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Application (2021-2032)
11.3 Middle East & Africa Optical Encoders Market Size by Country
- 11.3.1 Middle East & Africa Optical Encoders Sales Quantity by Country (2021-2032)
- 11.3.2 Middle East & Africa Optical Encoders Consumption Value by Country (2021-2032)
- 11.3.3 Turkey Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 11.3.4 Egypt Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 11.3.5 Saudi Arabia Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)
- 11.3.6 South Africa Market Size and Forecast (2021-2032)

12 Market Dynamics

12.1 Optical Encoders Market Drivers
12.2 Optical Encoders Market Restraints
12.3 Optical Encoders Trends Analysis
12.4 Porters Five Forces Analysis
- 12.4.1 Threat of New Entrants
- 12.4.2 Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- 12.4.3 Bargaining Power of Buyers
- 12.4.4 Threat of Substitutes
- 12.4.5 Competitive Rivalry

13 Raw Material and Industry Chain

13.1 Raw Material of Optical Encoders and Key Manufacturers
13.2 Manufacturing Costs Percentage of Optical Encoders
13.3 Optical Encoders Production Process
13.4 Industry Value Chain Analysis

14 Shipments by Distribution Channel

14.1 Sales Channel
- 14.1.1 Direct to End-User
- 14.1.2 Distributors
14.2 Optical Encoders Typical Distributors
14.3 Optical Encoders Typical Customers

15 Research Findings and Conclusion

16 Appendix

16.1 Methodology
16.2 Research Process and Data Source

Description

According to our (Global Info Research) latest study, the global Optical Encoders market size was valued at US$ 1997 million in 2025 and is forecast to a readjusted size of US$ 2748 million by 2032 with a CAGR of 4.6% during review period.
Optical encoders are position and motion feedback sensors that turn mechanical movement into electrical signals by using light. In a typical optical encoder, a light source (often an LED) shines through or reflects off a patterned scale (a code disk for rotary motion, or a scale strip for linear motion). A photodetector reads how the light changes as the pattern moves, and electronics convert this into signals that a controller can use to know position, speed, and direction. This is why optical encoders are a core part of many motion systems: without feedback, motors and axes cannot reliably hit the right location, keep stable speed, or correct errors in real time. Renishaw describes optical encoders as a scale + readhead system where a light source and photodetector move past scale lines to generate an electrical signal for a motion control system.
From a market-definition view, the optical encoder market covers both rotary encoders (measuring angle/rotation of shafts) and linear encoders (measuring straight-line position of machine axes). It also covers different “grades” and form factors: compact encoders for general automation, high-accuracy encoders for CNC machine tools and precision stages, and robust encoders designed for harsh factory environments. The market usually includes the encoder hardware (scale/disk and readhead/sensor), signal-processing electronics, and the output interface (for example incremental pulses, absolute position data, or industrial network communications). In many real purchasing decisions, customers buy not only “an encoder,” but a feedback solution matched to their control system, accuracy target, environmental conditions, and maintenance strategy.
A key way the market is segmented is incremental vs. absolute. Incremental encoders output pulses as motion occurs; the controller counts pulses to infer movement and direction. They are widely used for speed control, relative positioning, and cost-sensitive systems. Absolute encoders output a unique position value (or can report it on demand), so the system can know the position immediately even after power loss, which matters for safety, multi-axis coordination, and high-value equipment. Manufacturers commonly explain this split and also the further split of single-turn vs multi-turn absolute encoders: single-turn reports position within one revolution, while multi-turn also tracks the number of revolutions so it can report position across multiple turns.
Another important segmentation is rotary vs. linear encoders because their value drivers differ. In machine tools and precision manufacturing, linear encoders are used to measure axis position directly and reduce errors created by screws, backlash, and thermal effects. HEIDENHAIN explains that linear encoders measure position “without intervening mechanical elements,” eliminating error sources like backlash, pitch error, and heating of the ball screw, and are essential where high accuracy and high machining speed are needed. In contrast, rotary encoders are often used on motor shafts, joints, spindles, conveyors, elevators, robots, and many rotating mechanisms; their “value” may be high resolution, compactness, reliability, and how well they handle vibration, dust, and temperature change.
In 2025, global Optical Encoders production reached approximately 29870 K Units, with an average global market price of around US$ 65.0 per unit. The global single-line production capacity ranges from 500 to 700 K Units per year. The industry's gross profit margin is approximately 30%-40%.
One major trend in the optical encoder market is the continued push toward higher accuracy and better control of error sources in precision manufacturing. This is especially visible in CNC machining, precision grinding, and high-end motion stages. The reason is straightforward: as customers demand tighter tolerances and higher throughput, manufacturers try to reduce scrap, reduce rework, and shorten cycle time. Linear encoders support this by measuring actual axis position and helping controls compensate for mechanical and thermal effects. HEIDENHAIN’s materials emphasize this “error elimination” value proposition for linear encoders in machine tools. The trend is not only “more encoders,” but also a shift toward using encoders in more axes and using better encoder systems in higher-value machines.
A second major trend is the move from “simple signal output” to smart, networked encoders that support modern industrial communication and diagnostics. In older architectures, encoders often output basic quadrature pulses (A/B/Z) or a simple serial position signal. In newer architectures, encoders increasingly support real-time Ethernet and “Industry 4.0” style connectivity, so systems can do easier commissioning, parameter management, diagnostics, and predictive maintenance.
A third trend is demand growth in robotics and motion platforms beyond traditional factory robots. Warehouses and logistics are expanding the use of AGVs/AMRs and automated material handling; service robots (in cleaning and transport) are also growing. IFR press releases note rising sales of professional service robots and describe labor shortages and productivity needs as drivers in some segments. These systems often require reliable position feedback for wheels, lifts, steering modules, and actuator joints, and they run in mixed environments where robustness and stable feedback matter. In many cases, optical encoders compete with magnetic sensing, but optical systems remain attractive where high resolution and stable measurement are important for smooth control.
Another demand driver is the growth of electronics and semiconductor-related manufacturing equipment, which relies on precise motion (linear stages, wafer handling, inspection equipment). Even when this equipment uses specialized metrology, encoders still play a key role in positioning loops and motion repeatability. The market driver here is that electronics manufacturing continues to push for smaller feature sizes, higher throughput, and more automation, which increases the value of precision feedback components. In addition, medical devices, lab automation, and high-end printing/inspection equipment often require accurate, repeatable movement and benefit from optical encoder feedback.
This report is a detailed and comprehensive analysis for global Optical Encoders market. Both quantitative and qualitative analyses are presented by manufacturers, by region & country, by Type and by Application. As the market is constantly changing, this report explores the competition, supply and demand trends, as well as key factors that contribute to its changing demands across many markets. Company profiles and product examples of selected competitors, along with market share estimates of some of the selected leaders for the year 2025, are provided.
Key Features:
Global Optical Encoders market size and forecasts, in consumption value ($ Million), sales quantity (K Units), and average selling prices (US$/Unit), 2021-2032
Global Optical Encoders market size and forecasts by region and country, in consumption value ($ Million), sales quantity (K Units), and average selling prices (US$/Unit), 2021-2032
Global Optical Encoders market size and forecasts, by Type and by Application, in consumption value ($ Million), sales quantity (K Units), and average selling prices (US$/Unit), 2021-2032
Global Optical Encoders market shares of main players, shipments in revenue ($ Million), sales quantity (K Units), and ASP (US$/Unit), 2021-2026
The Primary Objectives in This Report Are:
To determine the size of the total market opportunity of global and key countries
To assess the growth potential for Optical Encoders
To forecast future growth in each product and end-use market
To assess competitive factors affecting the marketplace
This report profiles key players in the global Optical Encoders market based on the following parameters - company overview, sales quantity, revenue, price, gross margin, product portfolio, geographical presence, and key developments. Key companies covered as a part of this study include Broadcom, BEI Sensors, Renishaw, Dynapar, Baumer Group, TAMAGAWA SEIKI, CTS, Allied Motion, EPC, US Digital, etc.
This report also provides key insights about market drivers, restraints, opportunities, new product launches or approvals.
Market Segmentation
Optical Encoders market is split by Type and by Application. For the period 2021-2032, the growth among segments provides accurate calculations and forecasts for consumption value by Type, and by Application in terms of volume and value. This analysis can help you expand your business by targeting qualified niche markets.
Market segment by Type
Incremental Encoders
Absolute Encoders
Market segment by Measurement Type
Rotary Optical Encoders
Linear Optical Encoders
Market segment by Mechanical Construction
Shaft Encoders
Hollow-Shaft Encoders
Ring Encoders
Others
Market segment by Optical Principle
Transmissive
Reflective
Interferential
Market segment by Application
Healthcare
Machine Tool
Consumer Electronics
Assembly Equipment
Other
Major players covered
Broadcom
BEI Sensors
Renishaw
Dynapar
Baumer Group
TAMAGAWA SEIKI
CTS
Allied Motion
EPC
US Digital
CUI
OMRON Corporation
HEIDENHAIN
Bourns
Grayhill
Gurley Precision Instruments
HONEYWELL INTERNATIONAL INC
Graduate Honest Sensor Corp
HONTKO
Yuheng Optics
Inovance Technology
Market segment by region, regional analysis covers
North America (United States, Canada, and Mexico)
Europe (Germany, France, United Kingdom, Russia, Italy, and Rest of Europe)
Asia-Pacific (China, Japan, Korea, India, Southeast Asia, and Australia)
South America (Brazil, Argentina, Colombia, and Rest of South America)
Middle East & Africa (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt, South Africa, and Rest of Middle East & Africa)
The content of the study subjects, includes a total of 15 chapters:
Chapter 1, to describe Optical Encoders product scope, market overview, market estimation caveats and base year.
Chapter 2, to profile the top manufacturers of Optical Encoders, with price, sales quantity, revenue, and global market share of Optical Encoders from 2021 to 2026.
Chapter 3, the Optical Encoders competitive situation, sales quantity, revenue, and global market share of top manufacturers are analyzed emphatically by landscape contrast.
Chapter 4, the Optical Encoders breakdown data are shown at the regional level, to show the sales quantity, consumption value, and growth by regions, from 2021 to 2032.
Chapter 5 and 6, to segment the sales by Type and by Application, with sales market share and growth rate by Type, by Application, from 2021 to 2032.
Chapter 7, 8, 9, 10 and 11, to break the sales data at the country level, with sales quantity, consumption value, and market share for key countries in the world, from 2021 to 2026.and Optical Encoders market forecast, by regions, by Type, and by Application, with sales and revenue, from 2027 to 2032.
Chapter 12, market dynamics, drivers, restraints, trends, and Porters Five Forces analysis.
Chapter 13, the key raw materials and key suppliers, and industry chain of Optical Encoders.
Chapter 14 and 15, to describe Optical Encoders sales channel, distributors, customers, research findings and conclusion.

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