Flow Sensors vs Flow Meters – What’s the Difference?

Definitions Matter

Though often used interchangeably, flow sensors and flow meters serve slightly different functions. A flow sensor typically detects the presence and speed of fluid movement and outputs a signal proportional to that speed.

A flow meter, by contrast, combines this sensing function with a display or digital readout, offering complete measurement functionality in one device.

When to Use Each

• Choose a flow sensor when the system needs raw data input (e.g., to control valves or alarms).
• Choose a flow meter when operators need real-time flow visibility or trend monitoring.

Many Micronics devices offer both functions in a single unit—making it easy to scale your solution based on the complexity of your system.