Gauges are useful for additionally conveying expected ranges, and the expected limits. A strictly numeric display requires that the user know the significance

Gauges are useful for additionally conveying expected ranges, and the expected limits. A strictly numeric display requires that the user know the significance of the current value. The best case scenario, I believe, is use of both methods. My Subaru has a numeric speed display in the middle of the speed gauge. I love it. The numeric display quickly gives me my exact speed, while the gauge display helps me better understand how my speed is changing - something that isn’t always as obvious from visual and physical feedback as you might expect.