I searched old posts figuring there would be loads of discussion on this topic, and was surprised that I couldn't find any.
My Wixey digital calipers just gave me notice that they're at end of life. The battery compartment won't open - the thin plastic lip used to open it sheared off – so I can't open to replace the battery. I wasn't entirely surprised ... the plastic knurled adjuster bracket broke in the first month of ownership which gave some indication of the "achilles heel" of this tool. Otherwise I would have to say the calipers have worked well for me for several years. They dramatically improved my workflow with dialing in the planer and sander so that all thicknesses aligned with the calipers. But now it is time to invest in a better pair.
I'd love something with a stainless steel head (readout enclosure) that is more robust than the plastic Wixey. Features I like are the decimal/fraction indicator and of course the metric/imperial is a basic need. Six inches seems to meet my needs. Mostly woodworking but I do some metalworking so the hardened tips are great for scribing. Any preferences out there?