This all depends on how you're going to use your tape and how frequently. It protects the blade when it is retracted. This is the most versatile, dependable tape measure weve tested.
There are so many different types of tape measures available on the market today, it can be hard to decide which ones you should buy for yourself or as a gift for someone else. Get honest reviews on top products & services delivered weekly to your inbox. This tape measure passed my drop test with flying colors, coming out the other end of it without a single mark on it. This tape measure has only imperial measurements and not metric measurements. The blade is also 40% thicker than most models on the market, increasing its durability. It has a cushioned, slip-resistant design that fits comfortably in your hand and an easy-to-use blade lock. That it did well during drop testing is another feather in its cap. The main issue with the Kutir is the movement of its blade when it's supposed to be locked in position. Kristina is an expert DIY home remodeler and mom to three.
While this tape measure was built to last, Craftsman still offers a lifetime warranty that includes free replacements if it fails from material or workmanship defects. It might not be a great choice for those who want more of a compact tape. With measurements on either side of the tape, you'll get a clear look, regardless of the orientation. Stan Stallings has a great video here. Belt Clip: attached to the back of the case, a belt clip offers the means to keep a tape measure within reach, without the need to tuck it into a pocket. Best heavy-duty tape measure: Milwaukee 25-Foot Blade Magnetic Tape Measure, $29.97 at Home DepotThe Milwaukee Magnetic Tape Measure is tough enough for heavy-duty use, and a convenient magnetic hook makes it easy to use without a helper. Positive reviews said that the tape measure was easy to read and a good value for the money.
With both standard and metric measurements on the tape measure, you wont have to switch up depending on what you need measurements for.
Rebecca Boniface is a certified PADI dive instructor, full-time nomad, and DIY enthusiast. I'm a big fan of compact key-chain tapes like this one. Also, consider the additional features that will make your work easier as well as learnhow to organize toolsin your house.
The tape itself is rugged. I liked that the end of the measure hook is ribbed to help hold onto edges and has a comparable hook depth to our top pick.
The mylar polyester film on the Stanely FATMAX's tape shrugged off the sanding I used to simulate wear, leaving barely visible scratches on its measures. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. As a former residential and commercial carpenter for four years, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews.
The DWHT36107's thin blade makes vertical measuring difficult as it folds over on any length longer than three feet.
A tape measure is curved and has a concave design to help keep the blade straight when extended. In addition, the Komelon tape measure has push buttons that allow you to retract the blade when youre done measuring.
The DEWALT Fiberglass Tape Measure is a heavy-duty tape measure that stands up to daily use. I've been using Fatmax tapes for years, and this 25-footer is my favorite of the bunch. A brake is a button that you can hold down to keep the blade extended. You will need something for the laser to bounce off of, so they aren't practical for measuring boards or other flat objects. The cutout on the bottom of the tape lets you use your finger to stop the tape whenever you like.
It includes standard tape measure features, including a rubberized case, nylon-coated blade, and self-locking mechanism. It's printed with lines and numbers to help you get an accurate measurement of an object. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.
Reviewed's mission is to help you buy the best stuff and get the most out of what you already own. and wear on the blade. Accuracy should trump all other factors when it comes to gathering measurements, and this Komelon is designed to be read correctly.
It has United States and metric conversions and can save previous measurements to refer back to later.
And tape measures aren't just for heavy-duty tasks like cutting lumber for a woodworking project or marking out where you're putting a new bedroom window. I'm a big fan of FastCap tapes, and they've proven to be just as reliable as higher-end options.
Stanley 25-Foot Fatmax Tape Measure, $22.97 at Home Depot, Stanley PowerLock 25-Foot Tape Measure, $10.97 at Home Depot, Komelon 4110CS Key Chain Tape Measure, $6.85 on Amazon, Milwaukee 25-Foot Blade Magnetic Tape Measure, $29.97 at Home Depot, Komelon SM5425 Gripper Measuring Tape, $9.80 on Amazon, Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 Laser Distance Measurer, $69.99 at Ace Hardware, Milwaukee 25-Foot Wide Blade Magnetic Tape Measure, Learn more about how our team of experts tests and reviews products at Insider here.
Through testing each of the 12 models in a controlled environment, I was able to quickly uncover the issues with each measuring tape. With the click of a button, this professional-grade tool projects a laser beam as far as 65 feet with an accuracy of up to 1/8 inch.
Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the home improvement, DIY, and appliance space.
We recommend products in each review using an intensive research process, spending hours combing through the best available models on Amazon.
I tested how reliably each tape measure's auto-retract and locking mechanisms worked.
Wider tapes usually have longer standouts, like the Milwaukee's 14 feet. This speaks to a potentially poor build quality. Negative reviews criticized this tape measure model for how quickly it broke and how heavy it was. Credit: Reviewed / Samus Bellamy. If you need precise measurements without squinting at tiny lines, Milwaukee auto-lock is the right choice. With a digital screen, the eTape16 ET16.75-db-RP Digital Tape Measure can read measurements for you.
Email us at reviews@insider.com.
After drop testing, the Kutir started making purring/whirring noise inside its case when moving the blade.
You can set the device to metric or imperial measurements.
However, this tape measure's many faults make it hard to recommend. The lines printed on this tape measure's blade are large, easy to read, and include extra markings for studs for construction users. I also appreciate that you can use it without assistance.
With a strong magnet on the end of the hook, the Stanley FATMAX attaches securely to studs and other metal surfaces. The Milwaukee 48-22-6625 comes with some helpful markings on its measure.
It's a task that would have been almost impossible to accomplish alone using a tape measure. The main thing that the Kutir 56-7525 has going for it is that its tape comes with markings for both metric and imperial measurements. While you may need a regular tape measure, laser tape measures offer better accuracy and can measure further distances but can also be recalibrated. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the four best tape measures on Amazon to help you find the product thats right for you and your home.
While the width of the tape is similar to the Stanley FATMAX (allowing for easier horizontal measuring without the tape twisting), the hook stability and the high-contrast print on the Black Widow's tape bumped it into first place.
The This Old House Reviews Team has written over 1,000 reviews on products in the home space, from cordless drills to kitchen trash cans, lawn mowers, and dining room decorations. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. If youre on a budget, finding the best tape measure shouldnt be a problem. Before purchasing a tape measure, consider what tasks youll need it for to ensure you pick one that has a long enough reach. Keep in mind that this Fatmax tape is, as the name indicates, pretty chunky. It features a magnetic hook and, like the Lufkin Black Widow, The Mulwark's measures are also printed on the bottom. Its ergonomic design fits comfortably in your hand, and the attached belt clip allows you to keep it within reach. Finally, its thumb lock slows down how fast the blade of the tape measure can be extended but doesn't lock it in place. The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon. Testing tape measures is a complicated business.
If you plan on using your tape measure frequently and for heavy-duty jobs where it will get banged around or dropped a lot, then you'll want something a bit more rugged.
If you're on a tight budget, the Stanley PowerLock 25-Foot Tape Measure is a quality product at a low price.
You should know that, during durability testing, the Craftsman's case presented a new scuff or dent each time it was dropped, presenting an argument against its long-term durability. In addition to this protective film on the tape, the FATMAX has an additional clear plastic layer on the first three inches of tape, providing it with additional protection.
I was disappointed to find that my abrasion test took the paint (and the markings) right off of the DWHT36107's blade, stripping it down to bare aluminum.
I've known people who are too used to a traditional tape to use this one, but I find it helpful, especially when doing lots of measurements for a specific project. It also makes this tape great for indoor use, where more rugged tapes could potentially scratch flooring if dropped. Finally, the destructive phase of testing: I dropped each tape measure, six times, from a height of four feet onto a concrete floor to simulate the damage that they might incur over years of use.
Go for a higher-end option that features a rubber grip that adds an extra layer of protection. The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon. (I've dropped this tape off of a moving pickup truck and found it to be in perfect working order, apart from some cosmetic scratches.). Sign up for Insider Reviews' weekly newsletter for more buying advice and great deals.
However, negative reviews said that the digital display failed after a short period of time and that the blade couldnt be pulled out quickly without causing glitches on the display. The blade retracts smoothly and easily back into its protective casing with the help of an internal spring.
This distinctive print on both sides of the tape measure allowed for a reading to be taken no matter which way I held the Black Widow, making it the most versatile and useful of any of the tape measures I tested. In this review, the This Old House Reviews Team researched the five best weed killers on Amazon to help you find the product thats right for you. Theyre also easy to carry around, unlike standard tape measures. The tape itself is rolled up inside the case (the large piece you hold in your hand), and you unfurl it by pulling on the hook (the small metal piece that's protruding from the case). Its made from fiberglass that can stand up to high impact and pressure. Satisfied customers said that this digital tape measure was easy to read and accurate. Your email will be used only to confirm your request and to provide free kitchen information. In addition to choosing between a standard and digital tape measure, take the following features into account. FastCap PSSR16 16 FastPad Standard Reverse Measuring Tape: Left-handed users will love this FastCap tape, thanks to its reverse tape measurements: No more reading upside down!
Luckily, tape measures make it extremely easy to make quick and accurate measurements. Get the best deals and the best advice dropped right in your inbox.
A reliable tape measure will ensure that these tasks are completed quickly and won't result in frustrating issues down the road.
It also features a pencil sharpener and a convenient notepad for jotting down measurements as you go. To measure the occasional couch or cupboard, you can get away with a plastic case and metal tape. The heavy-duty belt clip is also a huge plus because not only is there a thumb lever to pinch the hook open to attach to thick belts or pants pockets, but it also has two holes so that it can be mounted to a wall or workbench.
For $3 to $5, you can find basic tape measures without a locking system.
However, unlike our main pick, the Gripper's tape is only printed on one side. Copyright 2022 This Old House Ventures, LLC.
This is no obligation form and doesnt require you to purchase any service. Read More, This tape measure is well-protected against wear, but the hook sometimes makes for difficult measuring. Cons: Lacks the extra protection of higher-end tapes, short standout.
The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon.
All rights reserved. Additionally, the hook on the end of its blade doesn't hold on edges when taking a horizontal measurement. For a product to make our list of top picks, it must hold a solid sales record on Amazon, have consistently positive customer reviews, and offer unique features, among other factors. 5 Best Cordless Leaf Blowers (2022 Review), The 5 Best Double-Sided Tapes (2022 Review), The 5 Best Magnetic Screwdriver Sets (2022 Review), How to Choose a Finish Nailer | This Old House: Live, How to Maintain Small Engine Gas-Powered Yard Tools. Email us and we'll compare notes. A spring inside the case will retract the tape as soon as you stop pulling it, and the thumb lock (a flat, textured slider on the front of the case) will allow you to lock the tape in place. Unlike other options, this one has a fractional scale, meaning it has the fraction printed right onto the nylon blade so that you can see indicated 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2-inch numerals. A magnet allows you to keep it connected to metal studs or other items while measuring. The auto-lock also provides precision and control during the tape blade extension, measurement, and retraction. Instead of traditional tapes that only label their inch markings, this one includes the - and 1/4-inch increments as well. Or ordering the right size child car seat for your car? BOSCH Blaze Outdoor Laser Tape Measure with Backlit Display, Rubber case to prevent injury against blade's retraction, Some people might not like its self-locking mechanism, Some people complain that auto-lock doesn't work well, Smooth and durable spring retracting system. The Stanley Powerlock has a lot in common with the Stanley FATMAX: the blades on both tools stood up well against my abrasion test and feature similarly styled easy-to-read measurement text.
This first-hand knowledge allowed me to gather a collection of about a dozen options, all of which I knew to be both high-quality and made by reputable brands.
Yes, lasers are a great way to take measurements, especially when measuring long distances that would be a challenge for a single person to do alone with a traditional tape. This portable tool fits your pocket or tool belt, and the wrist strap frees up your hands between measurements. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. Despite its low price, the Stanley PowerLock 25-Foot Tape Measure doesn't feel cheap. Learn more about how Insider Reviews tests and reviews home products.
As advertised, The AmazonBasics Big Button has, well, a large button to lock its tape in place after making a measurement.
Negative reviews said that this tape measures metric scale was unusable. The compact size easily fits your hand or tool belt, and its small enough to take on the go. Thumb Lock: the button on a tape measure that you press down to lock the tape in position. The blade lock lets you set a stopping point on the measuring tape right where you want it. This tape has a powerful magnetic hook attached to its end to keep it in place while taking measurements. Best laser tape measure: Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 Laser Distance Measurer, $69.99 at Ace HardwareThe Bosch Blaze Pro will provide accurate measurements to within 0.0625 of an inch and has a much longer range than a traditional tape measure.
There are seven feet of standout meaning, you wont need somebody else to hold the blade in place up to that point. By submitting your email, you agree to our.
The durability extends to the blade as well. This does limit its overall usefulness, so you'll still want a standard tape measure to ensure you have all your bases covered. The side crank rolls up the tape measure quickly and easily and is ergonomic for comfort when youre finished measuring.
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While I appreciated that the Big Button's tape also includes markings for measuring in centimeters, the additional numbers only added to the confusion.
A hook that's large (at least one-inch wide) and shaped to allow it to hold onto the edge of whatever you're measuring.
We highlight products and services you might find interesting. It provides a useful way to hold a measurement, for a moment, on the blade.
Look for one that comes with a rubberized case to protect it from bumps and being dropped. Purchases you make through our links may earn us a commission. Also known as a flexible ruler, a tape measure is a long thin object made of flexible material.
The price of this tape is impressively low. What about accurately listing that kayak on Craigslist? Measurement markings go down to 1/16 inch, but this tape measure doesnt include metric measurements.
While most of the tape measures in this guide were scuffed up after drop testing, the Black Widow remained unblemished, thanks to its protective, easy-to-grip rubber body. I was disappointed to find that while the Powerlock's tape looks similar to the FATMAX's, it's slightly narrower, making it more difficult to read. The main drawback with this model is that it lacks the rubber casing that more expensive tapes have. Weighing less than four ounces, this is considered one of the lightest tape measures on the market today.
Bosch is well-known for its accurate and easy-to-use lasers measures. Depending on the measurement system you prefer to use, youll want a measuring tool that either measures in centimeters or inches. This makes it easy to measure large spaces and allows you to get a precise reading without assistance. The first 6 feet of the tape has a coating that gives an extra bit of protection on the most frequently used section of the tape. His expertise also extends to the landscaping and gardening space, supported by experience as a landscaping professional. KitchenInfinity.com is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon .com.
During my time at reviewed.com, I've evaluated tool kits, electric screwdrivers, closet organizers, and other tools to help you make the best purchases. The long reach and multi-catch blade hook make this tape convenient to use alone, especially when measuring in awkward or tight spaces.
If durability is your main priority, this Milwaukee option is a perfect choice. There's no reason why it can't be used as a primary tape measure, even for a professional.
Durability, however, is an issue. Get the latest This Old House news, trusted tips, tricks, and DIY Smarts projects from our expertsstraight to your inbox.
An effective herbicide can get rid of a variety of weeds that have invaded your lawn. I've used this model when on a ladder measuring between ceiling rafters to cut drywall pieces. This Old House has empowered homeowners for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement content in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content on its website and social media platforms.
The dual locking system allows the tape to stay in place, but some have found the retract mechanism could use some work, making it easier to manually push it back in.
That said, its tape and lock button still worked just as well as before I beat it up.
Once released, the blade automatically retracts back into the sturdy plastic housing. This rugged tape is also designed to be easy to use by yourself, thanks to its 17-foot reach.
Unlike other tape measures, this measure has fractions of an inch indicated with numerals and not small lines. In the end, out of a seemingly infinite sea of tape measures, I ended up calling in 12 for testing. It weighs just 2 ounces, so you'll barely notice you're wearing it.
Design-event.co.uk Is Now Part of KitchenInfinity.com, What Kitchen Faucets Have Lifetime Warranty, What is the Flow Rate for Kitchen Faucets, What Does Delta Use for a Tool for Their Long Handled Kitchen Faucets Hidden Aerators. The tape is segmented into different increments, usually inches, 1/4s, 1/8s, and 1/16s. If you do prefer to keep a tape measure in your pocket, just remove the belt clip.
Given how simple using a measuring tape appears on the surface, measuring is a complicated business.
You can now buy a standard tape measure that has a blade you read manually or a digital one that takes measurements for you.
Reading and taking measurements is easy due to the large size of the number. A solar generator gives you backup energy from the sun should your electricity fail. I was also curious about a couple from Amazon's HomeBasic line, as their price was around half that of some of the other tape measures in this guide and the quality of tools found in AmazonBasics' tool kits, which I've written about previously, were surprisingly good.
The This Old House Reviews Team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content to help inform your purchasing decision for just about any item or resource that you might need for your home. However, I was annoyed by the MulWark's rubber wrist strap: It was stiff and kept poking me as I used the tape measure. The feature that I really love about the Milwaukee 25-Foot Wide Blade Magnetic Tape Measure is that it includes measurements on both sides of the tape. Adding up multiple measurements can be intimidating, but even if you're not great at math, you can get the hang of it with a little practice. I've also used these in a variety of workspaces, including construction sites, residential apartments in NYC, and my apartment for everyday personal projects around the house.
You still probably want a 25-footer for your primary tape.
Other than being the best tape measure, it comes in green color.
The tape provides stud center markings, so it's suited for framing jobs as well. The 5 Best Solar Generators (2022 Review).
Compared to other tape measures that had the paint completely worn off the aluminum blade of their tapes, the lack of damage to the FATMAX was really impressive. Additionally, after drop testing this tape measure, I found that extending or retracting the tape caused it to make a wheezing noise.
It makes this tool a lot more pleasant to use.
You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here. Tape measures are a necessity in every basic tool kitthey can measure the size of a room and provide you with the center point of a wall to hang a picture.
Learn more. The Bosch Blaze Pro GLM165-40 Laser Distance Measurer will provide accurate measurements to within 0.0625 of an inch and has a much longer range than a traditional tape measure. Blades will usually be between 0.25 and 1.25 inches in width.
Kitchen Infinity offers expert advice, inspiration and style tips to help you create the home you deserve. Generally, the best you can achieve is an approximation of length, based on the level of accuracy of your measuring tool. The PowerLock has a strong locked-in place hook, and the blade is made from rust-resistant steel.
The wide tape has extra-large numbers, so it's easier to read from far away. The case should also be rubberized to prevent the plastic body from cracking if its dropped.
It's up to you whether or not you prefer this fractional layout to be helpful or not. If you dont want to use the auto-lock, you can use the manual mode for speed marking.
The PowerLock feature ensures that the blade lock grips the tape, so you don't have to worry about it creeping back into the case and affecting your measurements. The hook allows you to anchor the end of the blade on a seam or edge, which is useful if youre measuring something without assistance. Although it's not technically a tape, this laser measure is just as accurate. The shifting movement of the hook should be equal to the width of the hook, to compensate for measurements that include the hook (like inside a box or closet) and measurements that do not include the hook (like when measuring lumber or the outside of a window frame). Fatmax tapes come in a range of sizes, too, including 16- and 35-footers.
As for the tape itself, you'll want to make sure that it features a protective coating, at least on the first 6 inches or so. Pros: Long range, accurate digital display, 10 measurement memory, Cons: Cannot measure flat surfaces, requires batteries, expensive. During practical testing, I measured the dimensions of a closet in my home and a large, sturdy box to verify the overall accuracy of each tape measure.
This makes it possible to easily use it as part of any measurement you're takingan incredibly useful feature in tight spaces.
Your tape measures blade should be coated in nylon to protect it from normal wear and tear. With a built-in pencil sharpener and an erasable notepad, you can write down your measurements to remember them.
This updated model of the previous Komelon Gripper still features the ergonomic rubber grip that made the original so popular. The magnet is set flush with the hook of the tape, so you won't have to worry about it affecting your measurements. By submitting your info on this form, you are agreeing to be contacted regarding your service request by means of email. Here are the six best tape measures for any project in 2022: Best tape measure overall: Stanley 25-Foot Fatmax Tape Measure, $22.97 at Home DepotThis Stanley tape measure combines durability with ease of use and, thanks to an impressive 14-foot reach, is convenient to use alone. When youre in construction, an electrician, a carpenter, or want to hang a painting straight on your wall, a tape measure is a necessity in your toolbox. Read More, This tape measure comes with a chrome case and easy-to-read numbers on its tape. The print on the blade should be covered in a mylar coating to protect the measures from being scratched off.
Whether youre looking for a heavy-duty weed eater or just something to get basic jobs done, weve reviewed some of the best weed eaters on the market. Keep it hooked on your belt, key chain, or backpack for quick access.
The products included in this article are available at various home improvement stores, local home centers, and online retailers like Amazon.
Pros: Heavy-duty cover, durable construction, easy to grip.
It can keep up to 10 measurements stored in its memory, which can come in handy when you don't have a pencil and paper. I used this experience to assemble this list of the five best options you can buy. Unfortunately, the Powerlock can't match the FATMAX, or our main pick, where durability is concerned. The tape's hook is identical to the one found on the Stanley FATMAX and Dewalt DWHT36107. The Wireworm Tape Measure is an excellent choice for contractors who need to take measurements in the field.
Best compact tape measure: Komelon 4110CS Key Chain Tape Measure, $6.85 on AmazonDespite its small size, the Komelon 4110CS still provides 10 feet of tape, and it's perfect to have on hand at all times. Want to make sure that the mirror you're hanging is centered before you drill an anchor hole? It's attached to the blade by rivets that shift if the hook is pushed or pulled. The BOSCH Blaze Laser tape measure is the best tape measure you can find. It's durable enough to take a serious pummeling on a job site. For my subjective tests, I assessed each tape measure's hook (that bit that holds the tape on the edge of whatever you're measuring) to see if it stayed in place while in use, without altering the length of the measurement I was taking.