直读式铁谱仪主要用来直接检测油样中磨粒的浓度及尺寸分布，仅能作磨粒的定量分析。其优点是结构较简单，能快速测定，适合于现场使用。分析式铁谱仪主要用来制备铁谱片，以供对磨粒进行定性观测和定量分析。其优点是可以精细、准确地考察铁谱片上各种磨粒的类型、形态、成分以至微量元素。在线式铁谱仪则直接与被监控的系统相接，无需采集油样就能对设备进行监控。其优点不仅是方便，而且具有监控的连续性和适时性，因此在固定式机械设备和机械加工流水线上很适用。
Direct reading Ferrograph is mainly used to directly detect the concentration and size distribution of abrasive particles in oil samples, only for quantitative analysis of abrasive particles. It has the advantages of simple structure, rapid measurement and suitable for field use. Analytical Ferrograph is mainly used to prepare Ferrograph for qualitative observation and quantitative analysis of wear particles. The advantages of the method are that the types, forms, compositions and trace elements of various abrasive grains on the Ferrograph can be examined precisely and accurately. The on-line Ferrograph is directly connected with the monitored system, and the equipment can be monitored without oil sampling. Its advantages are not only convenience, but also continuity and timeliness of monitoring, so it is very suitable for fixed mechanical equipment and machining line.