The 14 Best Tape Measures Of 2024

A tape measure is an essential device of a toolkit required in a home. The best tape measures help to measure the length in finding out the size of any commodity or item.

The tape measures also called tape, metal rule; meter stick, tapeline or ruler, the unit of expression of the distance is in inches or meters.

The use of tapes gives you the exact size of an object, unlike the figure you would do by eyeball estimate.

With the use of a metal stick or ruler, making posters, frames, signboards, and cutting dresses and coats is just precise and perfect.

The tape measure works as an engineering item for the crafter, architects, builders, and construction workers. Just check the list we have so you may choose the right one for any particular job.

Best Overall: eTape Digital 16 Feet Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Are you struggling with your home DIYs and commercial projects? Do you need an easy tool you can use to ease your hardships?

eTape Digital Measure tool will be an ideal choice for your problems. This tape measure makes measurement taking a breeze.

It has an internal digital monitor. This monitor provides precise measurements. It is also easy to handle. These features make this tape measure extremely reliable.

Users have adored this tool. This tool has a very convenient design. This measure comes with a sturdy case. This case is resistant to traumas and threats.

It is made of high-quality polycarbonate plastic. The material resists weather-based changes. It also resists accidental drops. You can use it wherever you want.

Every coin has another side though. This very convenient tool is no exception. The recorder might not provide a precise record every time.

If you need perfect precision, this might not help you much. The design is not transportation-friendly. It is a bit bulky and weighs a lot. Therefore, might not provide great mobility.

Best Value: LEXIVON LX-205 25 Feet AutoLock Wide Blade Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Are you passionate about your hobbies? Are you trying to discover an affordable tape measuring tool? Well, look no more! You can rely on this LEXIVON 205 with your eyes closed. It is a compact dual package for anyone who is into DIYs.

This has a sturdy metal design. It is durable and very reliable when it comes to measuring woodworks. It is very user-friendly. It is sufficient for a large number of projects. Reading the numbers on the display might be a hindrance. They are a bit difficult to read.

This tape measurement tool comes with sturdy dual-sided tape. This gives the user flexibility. You can work around your measurements without any hassle.

This is very useful if you are working on big projects. As mentioned before. It has a double pack. You can lock the tape measures. This will prevent accidental slips. Therefore, you can have a great experience. It is also very affordable. The low price tag makes this tool a fan favorite.

Best Pick: DAYOU 25 Feet Retractable Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

The DAYOU 25 feet tape measure is the best tape measure on the list of tape measures. This is a 40% thick wrap made of Nylon. It has options to measure two units. These units are Metric and imperial. It is a high-quality measurement tape.

The nylon prevents the tape from getting rusty. It is also highly resistant to water. This measurement tape can go up to 150” without budging. This is a very versatile measurement tape. You can use this tape in adverse situations.

Without any doubt, this is better than other tapes. The measurement tape can be locked. Other tapes cannot compete with this measurement tape.

The tape has clear fonts. The font makes the numbers easy to read. It is capable of heavy-duty projects.

The 40% nylon wrap is very convenient to use for any project.

Best Budget Choice: Kutir 25 Feet Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Kutir provides High-quality tapes with top-notch performance. You can trust this brand wholeheartedly. This will last for a long time. It delivers precise measurements whenever you need it. It measures in both Imperial and Metric units. It is made of stainless steel blades.

The blades are very strong. These bend to seven feet without any sort of resistance. It comes with a great grip hook made of magnets. It helps with the measurement. The blades are extremely durable. They are reliable for indoor and outdoor projects equally.

It comes with a great button. You can control the tape’s reduction and lock the blade using this button. The marks for measurements are provided on the blade. The background is a bright yellow. The numbers are printed using a big black font. In every 16” mark, there is a stud.

The overall outlook of the measuring blade is comfortable to look at. You can use it for carpeting. The case for this measurement is manufactured from a shock preventive material. This material is a very strong ABS material.

The magnet is rust-resistant. The case also has a non-slip coating made from rubber. This rubber feels very comfortable. You can take this measuring tape in adverse situations. Despite the adversaries, this measuring tape will provide you with your desired performance.

The measurement tape is equipped with a very helpful strap. If you want to take accurate measurements on any high area, you adjust this strap and climb ladders easily.

5STANLEY 33-425 25 Feet Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Do you need an all-rounder tape with reliable performance? You can consider this good old Tape Measure from Stanley. Your project could be mediocre or big league. Your goals can be to measure the window for new curtains or to make a new garden fence around your house.

This tape covers all. The chrome case is made with good quality polyester film from Mylar. This ABS case resists corrosion. It is also highly impactful. This sturdy and reliable case withstands rough uses and weather adversities. The tape has a strong metal blade.

This blade extends to 25”. In every 16”-19.2” interval, there are stud markings. These make construction projects relatively easier. If you are an amateur and do not know how to measure objects, you can try out this measurement tape. The blade comes with a lock.

The lock prevents slip-ups. The blade also has reliable rigidity. This design makes the measurement accurate. The spring is treated by heat. It lets the blade retract in the casing without any hindrance.

This classic measurement tape has several highlights.

One of them being the Tru-Zero tang. This tang is patented. It helps to pivot. You can draw circles or arcs with this tang. The tang adjusts on its own so that you can handle both inside and outside measurements.

The tape is 1” wide. The measurements are written in clear ink. You can easily check the measurements under low light.

Komelon 33 Feet 433IEHV Professional High-Visibility Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Do you need a professional measurement tape? Komelon is the brand you can turn to. This tape is named Professional.

The tape can be extended up to 33”. It is designed in a way that it can last for a long time. It also provides top-notch performance.

The chrome tape is designed ergonomically. You can work on any project with its help. The name lives up to its reputation. It delivers the best performance while using.

The professional tape comes with a great viz blade that is coated with nylon. The blade has a strong lock. The blade has a cool neon yellow background. This cool background increases visibility and lets the reader understand the numbers.

QUICKDRAW 25 Feet Self Marking Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

This is a unique tape measure. This Tape measure from QUICKDRAW provides you with an amazing performance. It has an internal dispensing wheel made of graphite. This is the feature many marking tapes lack. The wheel makes its marking.

Therefore, you won’t have to carry a pencil everywhere. The tape measurements are amazingly precise. It has the Tru-View feature. This feature provides a top-quality reading. You can stand out more than nine feet of the tape.

You can measure any object with this tape. The tape also has an amazing recoil feature. You don’t have to struggle to retract the blade.

CRAFTSMAN CMHT37225S Self-Lock Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

This is a great measurement tape by Craftsman. This tape is budget-friendly. This tape can extend to 25”. This Self-lock measurement tape is made with durable materials. This tape can be used for household projects and professional tasks.

You can measure objects and spaces easily with this measurement tape. As the name suggests, this tape comes with a self-lock feature. You can retract the blade and it stays that way till you unlock it. You won’t need assistance from others to hold the measurement blade. This tool is super easy to use and the mechanisms are fairly simple.

The case has a durable exterior and can endure weather adversities. The extraction and retraction of the blade are very smooth. The case has a rubber coating. It ensures a comfortable grip. This case also assists in giving a great lifespan to the measurement tape.

The durability of this product is somewhat concerning though. The solid and light design lets you wield the tool easily.

But this lightweight can compromise longevity. You have to handle the blade with caution. The lock can also malfunction sometimes.

Komelon 25 Feet SM5425 Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Like other Komelon tapes, the print on this tape is very clear. The tape provides fractions. The feet are color-coded. But the tape only has markings on a single side.

It however has a high score on the drop test. It doesn’t dent when it’s dropped.

The number is a misnomer. It comes with a nice hook. The hook is very shallow. However, the hook often struggles to cling.

Komelon Self Lock SL2825 25 Feet Power Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Komelon is well known for its tape measures. They are one of the famous manufacturers of this product. This model is simple on the exterior and might not feel like anything special. You need to observe it to discover the fascinating features of this tape.

Typically measuring tapes retract on their own. This is the prominent feature of many best-selling tapes. This tape does the opposite. The button might seem like it will lock the blade. Instead, the blade locks itself automatically.

The button acts as the release function. You need to press the button first. After that, the blade retracts itself into the body.

It is quite an interesting feature. It has impressed users and reviewers alike. However, it might take a while to get familiar.

Apart from that, this tape is pretty generic. The measuring tape is thin. The numbers look tacky and reading is difficult. However, the case will be made of rubber. The rubber adds protection to the tape measure and provides a comfortable grip. It also has a low price tag.

FastCap 25 Feet PSSR25 Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Do you need a measurement tape that will instantly record your measurement? You should get your hands on this very cool measurement tape from FastCap.

The measurement of the tape can extend up to 25”. It also reverses automatically. If you are a left-handed person, this tape will be ideal for you.

This tape has high-quality markings. You can easily read out the numbers. However, the measurement tape also comes with an internal notepad and a pencil sharpener. You can take a record of your measurements super quick.

It has an ergonomic belt clip. This is designed with the highest quality lever-action system. The tape has a strong recoil spring. You can control the retraction’s speed.

This tape measure comes with two locking systems. The blade is protected by a rubber case. It provides a convenient grip.

It also protects your tool from any damage and impact. The final hook comes with four joints. These rivet joints deal with the brunt of everyday usage.

DEWALT DWHT36107 Yellow 25 Feet Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Dewalt has a good reputation for their other products. But the DWHT36107 measurement tap doesn’t live up to the mark.

This tape measure has a very thin blade. If you extend it to more than 3”, it will bend and fold. The hook cannot grip the end of the surface.

The paint is also very weak. If it is put through an abrasion test, the paint, the number marking will disappear immediately.

It does have a thumb lock. This thumb lock reduces the speed of the blade. It also doesn’t lock the blade in its position.

Komelon 12 Feet 4912IM Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Komelon has a range of high-quality tape measures. This 4912IM is one of the high-quality ones. It has a great quality blade extension process. This tape measure is very sturdy and reliable. If you work in tough construction sites it will be an ideal tool for you.

This tape features the metric scale for measurement purposes. It is 12” long. The tape has a nice, ergonomic chrome case. This also has a triple rivet hook. The 4912IM provides a superior spring mechanism.

This tape provides an overall smooth and effortless experience. The materials are of premium quality. The blade is coated with nylon. This makes the blade very reliable and durable.

DEWALT 25 Feet DWHT36225S Tape Measure

View on Amazon(US)

Do you want a good quality tape measure? Are you on a tight budget? You can go for DeWalt XP. For a low price, this is one of the great options.

It delivers everything you need at a low price point. It comes with a negative aspect though. It has markings on only one side. It doesn’t have a high rating.

Best Tape Measures Buying Guide – Key Aspects To Consider!

• Length Of The Tape Measure

  Tape measure differs in size based on lengths in feet. Thus, there are 10, 12, 16, and 25 feet long tapes. Of course, a few producers manufacture tapes as long as 26 ft.

  For construction workers or “do-it-yourself” (DIY) helping hands in the home, an all-rounder appropriate one would be 25 feet long.

  This is to assure you can use or multiple purposes require for measuring. Therefore, keep in mind the various purposes you made need the tape for the kind the job you want to do.

  Many would like to do little bits of job in the house in the home kit or keep one for a hobby. In that case, a short tape should be better.

  In the use of the construction of buildings, bridges, and offices, a 50 feet long made of fiberglass is preferred.

  The material fiberglass is made of transformed layers of fibrous glass, and therefore lightweight and strong.

• Blade Durability

  The tape is also called the blade, which is used for measuring. The blade has two sides, one side having markings in inches (imperial units) and the other side in meters (metric units).

  The blades remain folded or rolled round in cases when not in use. As the blades touch various kinds of exteriors on the measured item, it is likely to become soiled and filthy especially when used in muddy areas in bad weather conditions.

  In addition to the exposure of the tape in dust and dirt, continuous withdrawal, and retraction, the ruler needs to be that, which can take abrasion and friction as it is like a friend of an engineer.

  A durable tape, therefore, comes with a shielded covering that makes it resistant to wear and tear. The coating should not easily come off and at the same time, not wipe off the readings on the blade.

  The best quality tapes come from Mylar, which is a thin polyester film or nylon bond steel coating. These materials help in resisting harsh handling.

  Measuring tapes made of fiberglass are non-stretchable and can withstand rough situations. No matter whether it is made of fiberglass or steel, the durability of a blade is an indicator of the service it will render even if the working environment is rough and tough.

• Blade Material

  As we have stated that, the production material of blades can be either fiberglass or steel. Let us see what each of the types implies.

• The Steel Blades

  Most blades are made of steel, and a great number of measuring tapes are consist of steel blades.

  Steel blades are long-lasting and pragmatic as reported by users. The price of such tapes is also worth the money.

• The Fiberglass Blades

  The blades are in the category of “Long Tapes” and are usually manufactured with fiberglass coating.

  These are best suited for use in construction and manufacturing companies. However, hobbyists and DIY home users also like the fiberglass type of blade.

  Unlike the steel blade tapes, the measuring tape made of fiberglass is less wide. The design is slim and slender.

  The lightweight envelope is safe to use in restricted spaces and the surrounding of vulnerable material like cloths and blinds.

  Many people like fiberglass tapes because of their flexibility, tenacity, durability, and high resistance to erosion and heat.

• Blade Expansion And Strength

  The expansion ability of extendibility of the measuring blade at the midpoint and without any support is an important feature to look for.

  Some non-flexible blades twist and give away when extended to enable measuring a long distance. This is a disadvantage and comes in the way of efficiency in carrying out the work.

  A quality blade possesses remarkable expansion capacity. It does not collapse or break, even of over 9 feet of extension.

  Any dedicated worker would not like the blade to fall out while measuring a high wall or up until the top of a shelf. It would cost you time and effort to start the measurement repeatedly, resulting in the loss of your time.

  A strong and dependable should not break down when extended to 6 feet. For stress-free construction work or your DIY adventures blades featuring durability, tensile strength, and hardness are desirable for measuring any component.

• Blade Width

  Measuring tapes also have blades of various widths. It is usually in the range of ? to 1? inches. If the width is 1 inch, reading the figures on it is easy. However, many like the slim blades for their look and convenience in carrying.

  A strong and long-lasting measuring tape blade is 1-inch wide. The markings are also legible, so the measuring task is done with comfort. Do look for the width of the tape blade but also the size and type of fonts.

• The Hook Or Tang Size

  The hook or tang of a blade is like a buckle that facilitates holding or hooking the ending to the object or border of the wall you are measuring.

  The size of the hook is crucial, as it should enable the measuring tape to stay safely on the item you are measuring.

  Too small or too large is not is best. It depends on the area of the work where you essentially need a measuring tape.

  Too big or clumsy tang or buckle is not advisable as it might catch into other materials, delaying your work due to going through unhooking.

  It is better to see what would be ideal if you were going to work on your own and have no helping hand with you.

• The Locking System Of A Blade

  The button of a blade that locks it safely is also a salient feature to look at. This locking technique is in operation when the blade extends a long-distance and attaches to a partition or furniture.

  In this case, the hook should not disconnect on a small drag or pull and result in an error in measurement.

  The locking system firmly grips the blade and lets you measure and take records until you want to detach it.

  To avoid disappointment in carrying out your work smoothly, examine the lock system, which comes with the blade of your measuring tape.

• Casing

  The casing of the tape measure should have a protective cover to assure no damage because of an accidental fall.Find out about the options on impact absorption or shockproof features on the tool.

  Never buy one with a short-lived, low-cost, breakable plastic casing. If it breaks, the tape measure will also become useless.

  Usually, the hard plastic similar to ABS or the metal cases is safer. Such coverings let the blade settle in the box petite. Therefore, look out for a tape measuring case that is durable and lasts as long as you have the tape.

• Blade Locking

  The latest packages of tape measure carry this much-desired feature of locking the blades. The system allows the blades to stay securely in a specific position.

  Be sure to check that the measuring kit comes with a locking system, especially if the purpose is to use in an industrial project.

  The blade will stay firmly stay inside and not slide away. Further, there are offers of a slide-lock mechanism, a convenience over the others.

• Portability And Additional Features

  The portability of the tape measure depends on the size or weight of the kit. For a pocket carrying kit, a small tape measure is the best.

  Therefore, the finest tape measure would is composite and lightweight. Therefore, when you go shopping choose the one that is comfortable to use and carry.

  Additionally, you would want the tape measure, which has a key holding ring or clip to hold on your belt. Therefore, the portable tape measure remains fastened to the keychain and belt.

Types Of The Best Tape Measures 2021!

There are a few categories of tape measures. We describe them below to facilitate the selection.

1. Standard Type

   With a few differences, the standard type is in adherence to the basic design of a tape measure. Plastic or metal casings are common with rubber covering on a portion.

   The expanse of the metallic blades is from 6-ft to over 50-ft. The blades also are variable in width.

   To the end of a blade, a hook is attached for ease in measuring. Based on the model, the increments of the measuring figure are 1/16 and 1/32 inches.

2. Tape Measure-Digital

   The digital one uses the laser technique. It measures the distance accurately and operates digitally. The tape measure is a great convenience in small places.

   You will be amazed to know that some digital tapes are full of modern features. They can calculate, has memory, a display lit at the back, and other measuring units you choose to use.

   There are plenty of models. Quite a number has the option to measure 16-25 ft. distance.

   However, there are no incremental markings on the blade, but surely provide a quick means of measuring.

3. Digital Display Type Standard Tape Measuring Tool

   The tape measure with a digital display is the standardized tape measure. The LCD screen is on the casing’s top and like that of the tape measure with digital display.

   The tape measure has a memory feature but able to make calculations on the difference that exists with 2 measurements. This tape measure however can change from imperial to the metric unit.

   However, digitally read measures may not be as reliable as that of the reading of the regular tape measure.

   Finally, are you aware of the meaning of the measuring marks on the tape measure? Is the use of this simple tool within your knowledge?

   All you need to do is to hold the end and pull the tape out. Stretch it to the object from where you want to measure. Note the readings or keep your digital records. That is quite simple.

FAQs About The Best Tape Measures!

Q: What Is The Length Of The Measuring Tape?
A: The length of the standard measuring tapes 12, 25, and 100 feet. The most convenient to use is the 12 feet size.

This is quite helpful to carry and use in small projects. The long tape that is 25 feet in length is known as the builder’s tape.

The figure markings of this measuring tape are at the 16-inch interval with feet markings. This incremental marking allows easy measurement of walls.

Q: In Measuring Tapes, What Is Cm?
A: CM means centimeters, a metric unit of measuring the area of objects. The smaller units are millimeters (mm), which is 10 times less than a centimeter. Therefore, there are 10 mm or 10 spaces between centimeters (cm). A 100 cm makes up a meter.

Q: How Can You Figure Out My Height?
A: This is how you can measure your height. Stand barefooted on a smooth floor against a wall. Ask the person assisting you to hold a flat book or pencil on top of your head. Make a marking on the wall where the pencil or head is.

Now your height is the distance between the floor and the marked dot on the walls. You can express it in the empirical or metric system.

Q: What Is The Reason For The Tape Measure To Be Rounded?
A: Did you think or ever wonder why the tape measure takes a curved figure? The circular design allows the tape to curve.

Because of the curvature, the blade protrudes out at the time of measuring, making the readings visible. The flexibility of the blade and the curved nature allows folding round into a small object. This facilitates the storage of the tape measure.

Q: What Does The Red Number In The Tape Measure Mean?
A: Some tape measures have numbers colored red or some graphical symbols in an increment of 16-inches on the blade.

This helps in keeping track of spaces and the span between two red marks. An 8-foot long measure tapes there six such red marks.

Q: How Much Is A Measure App Accurate?
A: It is possible that if you measure an object two times, you may not the same dimensions. The measure is also not perfectly accurate.

Usually, the frame on the inside measure 78 x 101 cm; the stool above it measures 38 x 53 cm. The App is inaccurate by around 20%.

Q: Tape Measures Are Usually Yellow. Why?
A: The yellow background of the tape measure has a red and black marking of the figures above. The combination of colors optimizes visibility and readability even in shaded light.

Q: Can You State How The Measuring Tape Differs From The Tape Measure?
A: Measuring tapes are flexible and measure length or size from 2 meters/yards and 30 meters or equivalent to 100 feet.

They are made of ribbons of fabric, fiberglass, plastic, or strips of metals. The tapes have markings of numbers at 1-inch intervals. The measuring tape obtains the size of a coat, shirts, pants, and dresses for tailoring.

The tape measure is produced from metal or fiberglass with contrasting colored markings of figures. The tape measure takes account of distances of up to 500 feet. Tape measures are used in engineering and construction work.

Q: Which Is More Accurate, A Ruler Or Tape Measure?
A: Any tape measure can be as long as 300 to 500 feet. A ruler is simply a scale measuring up to 12 inches or afoot.

A ruler is used in schools, homes, offices, and small establishments. However, if you were to measure a road, you would have to move your ruler many times, leading to an enormous error.

The tape measure requires a lesser shift in measuring a long distance, thus the error in the data received is less. Therefore, a tape measure is more accurate.

Q: Why Is It That Tape Measures Are Dissimilar?
A: The tape measure has markings of black every fraction of one inch. These markings are perfect and much more accurate than that of the measuring tape.

Q: What Is The Meaning Of Black Dots Mean On The Tape Measure?
A: The tape measures carry red colors or graphical dots each 16-inches. This is a common incremental distance needed in various works at home.

There are also black diamond-shaped symbols representing spaces. The first one begins from 19.2” followed by every 10.2” to a stretch of 8 feet. Thus, red and black symbols of yellow background are typical of all tape measures.

Q: What Is The Quality Of A Standard Tape Measure?
A: A tape measure is of a good quality when the scales and figures imprinted on the fiberglass or steel blade are prominent and legible. It is advisable to choose one with a wide blade and large fonts of numbers.

Q: Can You Name The Two Customary Sizes Of The Tape Measures?
A: You may wonder what the length is, of a common tape measure. Almost all tape measures used by most people come in 3 sizes.

They are 12 feet, 25 feet, and 100 feet. The most popular size for builders is 25 feet, whereas other customers choose 12 feet tape measures.

Q: Is It Possible To Take Your Measurement With The Tape Measure?
A: Yes, you can. For body measurement of your own, you need a cloth measuring tape. Circle the tape around the part you want to measure such as the waist, chest, hips, or arms. Bring the tape of the long end close.

Do not make it lose or tight. Read the figures at the long end and record. To get an accurate figure you would need to measure the bare body surface.

Q: Does All Tape Measures Give The Same Measurement?
A: The accuracy of tapes to measure correctly differs from one another. They maintain accuracy by following the NIST guide by the manufacturer. With that assurance, you can rely upon the tape measure you choose to buy.

Conclusion

A single measuring tool to get all your various kinds of jobs done may not be easy to find. The best one available in the market may not be the perfect one for you.

Your choice would depend on your need. Most would like a strong and sturdy tape measure to avoid damage after a drop from a high-rise building. Some might need easily readable measuring tapes that would be easy for the eyesight.

One of the best tape measures is eTape Digital 16 Feet Tape Measure. The best inexpensive tape measure is LEXIVON LX-205 25 Feet AutoLock Wide Blade Tape Measure.

Look for the finest tape measure from the stores that offer you the features you want in it. There are many brands that produce some excellent tape measures. However, the user must be alert on how to use the best way to achieve error-free measuring.