Dial depth gauges with measuring rods are positioned over holes and the graduated blade/scale is lowered until it contacts the bottom of the hole. They have a dial gauge fixed to the frame that displays the reading. Depth gauges with a single fixed rod or plunger are for short measuring ranges, and interchangeable rods are used for deeper holes and larger ranges. They are commonly used to determine depth-of-groove and feature measurements.

Blade-style dial depth gauges have different tip shapes that allow for a range of hole measurements including depth-of-groove and feature measurements. These gauges consist of a half or full base and a blade-style scale that is lowered into holes.