Mounted mechanical counters itemize a quantity, increasing or decreasing by one each time a lever or button is engaged. The mounting allows the freedom to perform other tasks in tandem. Common uses include production count, process monitoring, tool and equipment usage for preventive maintenance, and oil and gas meters.

Hand tally counters itemize a quantity, increasing by one each time a button or other trigger is pushed. They hold the sum until a reset button or knob is engaged. These counters keep track of pedestrian traffic or attendance, and survey road traffic. They also tally samples and take inventory in a lab setting.