Rigol DHO804 vs. Siglent SDS814X HD: the 12-bit entry-level duel

Both devices were recorded against the same 16 data points; every figure carries a source and retrieval date. Purchase links are affiliate links and change no measurement.

Where they are equal — and why that alone is remarkable

Two years ago, 12-bit resolution was a high-end feature. That two entry-level devices under 600 € now bring it as standard shifts the baseline of the whole class: small signals riding on large levels — ripple on a supply voltage, sensor detail — stay visible where 8-bit devices show nothing but staircase steps. Both bring four analog channels, a 7-inch touch display and serial decoding (I²C, SPI, UART, CAN) at no extra charge.

Where they part ways

Bandwidth as shipped. The Siglent delivers 100 MHz against the Rigol’s 70 MHz — with fast digital edges, that is the difference between “seeing” and “guessing”. The Rigol buyer can unlock to 100 MHz and beyond via a documented community procedure; that is verified and widespread, but it remains an unofficial route with open warranty questions. On the Siglent, the upgrade path runs through official tiers and modules — more expensive, but with the manufacturer’s blessing.

The signal generator. If you want to not only observe circuits but drive them (sweeping filters, testing amplifiers), you need a signal source. On the SDS814X HD it can be retrofitted as a module; the DHO800 series simply has no hardware for it on board — an external instrument remains the only way.

The price. 462.91 € versus 593.81 € (reichelt and Batronix respectively, as of 12.07.2026) — a gap of around 130 €. That is almost exactly the price of a solid probe set, and that is how the decision should be calculated: on the cheaper device, what does it cost me to retrofit what I am missing?

The values side by side

The comparison below shows both devices across the eight purchase-deciding data points — full text, no truncated values. For the whole field with filters: back to the comparison.