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BlogUse the Best Tape Measures for Accurate Measurements
Last updated: 1 Apr 2024We went through hundreds of tape measures and compared their pros and cons, so you don’t have to go through that trouble. Here are our reviews of the finest tape measures of 2024 and their best features to help you make a wise choice and get the best value for your money.
As a frequent DIYer who is passionate about doing new projects all the time or you are a professional carpenter, no tool kit is truly complete without a high-quality tape measure. There are a variety of tape measures online along with different features making it a potential challenge to know which one to use.
- Best Overall: CRAFTSMAN 25-Feet Tape Measure Shop Now ➔
- Suitable for Heavy-Duty Use: Spec Ops 25-Foot Tape Measure Shop Now ➔
- Ergonomic Design: GDMINLO Soft Tape Measure Shop Now ➔
- Most Durable: FastCap Measuring Tape Shop Now ➔
- Great Value: Komelon Self Lock 25-Foot Tape Measure Shop Now ➔
View all ContentsThe Best Tape Measure of 2024 Reviewed in Detail
Best Overall
The Craftsman tape is made for heavy-duty professional-grade tasks to help them get accurate measurements for precise cuttings. The sophisticated design will surely grab your attention even at the first glance. Weighing only a little above 13 ounces, it is extremely portable. You can just keep it in your pocket on your way to work or in your tool belt while working from your workshop. The rubber over-mold also adds to the strong grip of the tape measure to ensure that you get 100% accuracy every time.
The rubber over-mold not only offers added grip but also enhances the durability of the tape, especially in the case of falls. The blade is coated with durable materials to increase the shelf life of the product and offer the user the best performance at the given price point. Plus, the multi-catch hook will allow you to grab onto different surfaces on the go.
Pros
- 7 ft. of standout size
- Rubber over-mold for safety
- Easy-to-read font marking
Cons
- Markings in only inches
Suitable for Heavy-Duty Use
This tape measure is designed for heavy-duty projects because it features a military-grade composite case to offer it the ultimate protection from falls and abrasions. It is 20% more compact than other tapes, so you can carry it even in the smallest pockets. Apart from 2X durability and highest visibility when working in the dark to take precise measurements, marking, and reading, its 1-1/4-inch MIL-X coated blade offers you years of use.
You can use its double-sided markings to measure the hardest-to-reach spots and overhead surfaces. The feature that we loved the most is its 10-foot blade standout. The 10 feet threshold offers maximum reach and the ultimate control when you have to take long measurements.
Pros
- Battle-proof construction quality
- Military-grade composite housing
- Tactical design for convenient use
- Mil-X coating for added durability
Cons
- Weighs more than normal tape measures
Ergonomic Design
Whether you are a seamstress or a DIYer, this measuring tape is a good choice if you are looking for something flexible. It has an accurately printed scale in both inches and centimeters to cater to your diverse needs. With a small size, it does not take up too much space and you can conveniently carry it in your bag.
It is made of highly-durable tailor vinyl that doesn’t deform and offers superior measurement consistency for accuracy. The soft plastic material is super flexible. Plus, it has metal tabs on both ends to prevent fraying. Moreover, the black markings on the white tape measure are big enough to allow you to read them even from a distance, without needing to go back and forth during your project.
Pros
- Flexible material for curved measurements
- Metal tabs on the ends prevent fraying
- Durable and long-lasting
Cons
- Might be slightly inaccurate
Most Durable
This highly-functional measuring tape comes with a built-in pencil sharpener in case your pencil breaks when you are taking measurements. Plus, the easy-to-read built-in fractions offer added accuracy for intricate projects. No matter what kind of surface you want to measure, it will deliver accurate readings.
The best feature of this measuring tape is the erasable notepad built on the tool that allows the user to take down measurements as they work. It has a protective rubber boot that keeps the tape safe. Weighing at merely 10 ounces, it is super-lightweight. If you are left-handed, you will be able to use it just as effectively as a right-handed person would.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry around
- Suitable for both right and left-handed
- Four-rivet nose clip for efficient use
Cons
- Might snap sometimes
Great Value
If you do a lot of DIY projects, you don’t need to spend a lot of money on a tape measure. Especially when you can get something as good as the Komelon power tape at a very affordable price. This tape has a self-locking mechanism that allows the blade to be extended smoothly and a push button that is responsible for an equally smooth retraction of the blade.
Plus, this tape will last you for a long time because it has a Nylon coating on the blade for added durability. The impact-resistant rubberized case makes it sturdier, so it can survive accidental drops and casual wear and tear. You can buy this tape measure in different sizes as per your liking. It is perfect for DIYers and professional tradesmen alike.
Pros
- Nylon coated blades last longer
- High visibility green case color
- Stud markings on the blade
Cons
- Doesn’t have magnets
Buying Guide: Tape Measures
The major pain point of many professionals is not having the right tape measure that can cater to their varying needs. What’s the use of owning a measuring tape if it can’t even measure the desired length? So, while purchasing measuring tapes, consumers tend to go with the ones that best suit their needs. Choosing the right measuring tapes might be a challenge due to the abundance of alternatives on the market. After reading this buying guide, you’ll be able to make an informed decision. So, without further ado, let’s dive in.
What Makes a Good Tape Measure?
Stand-out blade
It’s a measure of how far a tape blade can be stretched before it breaks. Some tapes have a blade that falls even when a little amount of extension is added. And there are some tape measures that extend to a long-distance without needing any external support.
So, a better standout actually means that the tape measure can reach further and it is critical for professional carpenters, contractors, or other intense jobs. If you are usually involved in simple DIYs and home improvement projects, you can even ignore this aspect.
The tape’s length
In order to avoid wasting money on a measuring tape that isn’t long enough for your purposes, it’s critical that you pay attention to the tape’s length before making a purchase.
Readings
The readings have a vital role in taking accurate measurements. It is imperative that the readings are clearly labeled and visible from a distance. If the tape is not labeled appropriately, the data or the measurement you are taking will be incorrect and you will end up messing up the whole project.
A clip or a belt holder
With cased tape measures, you should be aware that they frequently include a nylon or steel belt clip linked to the pocket or toolbelt. Some DIYers and professionals might not like cased tape measure because it adds more weight and makes it a bit bulky. Adding to this, the clip makes it more difficult to handle or stow the tape measures. Some models allow you to remove the clip as needed.
Auto-lock
It’s helpful to have tape measures that automatically lock as you draw them out if you’re working alone or if the work area is congested. For example, when you’re taking measurements within a cabinet, the blade will lock into place. As a result, you may rest assured that the reading you receive is correct. It’s not complicated at all. When you release your finger from the button, the blade will either fully retract or shorten.
Unit markings
You may need a tape measure with metric markings and the American Imperial system of feet and inches, depending on the sort of carpentry you undertake. Many of the tape measures on our list include both markings, so you can choose any of them.
Types of Tape Measure
A tape measure should not be chosen at random. For certain applications, it is best to use a specific type of tape measure.
A cased tape measure
The blade of these tape measures is housed in a metal or rubber holder attached to fiberglass or metal measuring strip. It may be attached to a tool belt or stowed in a pocket with ease. A 25-foot tape measure is a common length for crafts and DIY projects.
Open-reel tapes
Contractors, engineers, and construction workers commonly use these types of measuring tapes. These are normally composed of fiberglass and include a hand crank for retraction. With measurements in both meters and feet, they can range in length from 25 to 500 ft.
Diameter tapes
You can measure columns and circles with the help of these tapes. D-tapes feature a flexible metal or fabric blade that may be wrapped around pipes or poles. These measuring tapes are precise because they use pi to compute the diameter and circumference of the objects they are measuring. D-tapes come in a range of lengths, from 12 inches to 50 feet, and you can choose one depending on the intended use.
Sewing tapes
When it comes to sewing tasks, vinyl or cloth models are more suited since you can simply shape them to take measurements around the body. They are available from 60 to 120 inches in length. When it comes to sewing tapes, there are two basic options: plain metal strips or retractable cases.
What To Consider While Purchasing Tape Measures?
Durability
A long-lasting measuring tape is a must-have for any serious shopper. This is critical because measuring tapes are used on construction sites or in workshops, where they will have to withstand numerous accidental drops.
Retracting system
When it comes to a measuring tape’s retraction mechanism, it must be both smooth and robust.
Reinforced tip
Many manufacturers increase the number of rivets on the tip to increase its stability and durability. That tip is what keeps the blade from snapping when you retract it. You can extend the life of your tape measure by slowing down the blade before it completely retracts.
How Much Do Tape Measures Cost?
Inexpensive
You can get basic tape measures without a locking system for $3 to $5. Sewing tape measures fit into this category since they are inexpensive. You may be able to find some basic measuring tapes with an auto-lock option if you do some further investigation.
Mid-range
You may get longer and more durable tape measures for your home improvement tasks for $5 to $10.
Expensive
There are high-quality tape measures with additional capabilities for as little as $10. High-end tape measures are preferred by architects, contractors, and engineers since they are expected to endure for a few years.
People Also Ask
Why is a tape measure curved?
In order to keep the blade straight, the tape includes a concave shape that curves around the blade as it's being extended. The measurement is easier to read because of the curvature.
What does 16-inches on a tape measure mean?
The normal distance between wall studs in a US home is 16 inches. Carpenters and other workers will appreciate the ease of using such tapes to take measurements around the house.
When purchasing tape measures, what safety precautions should you keep in mind?
Make sure the edges of an open tape aren't sharp to ensure it doesn’t hurt you. When measuring or retracting the tape measure, it is best to keep your hands clean. Also, you should supervise children while they use a tape measure to prevent injuries.
Article Contributors
Read More About Popular Woodworking Reviews Team HereThe Popular Woodworking Review Team’s product reviews and comprehensive guides are here to help you select the best gear and tools to efficiently complete top-quality woodworking projects.
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