Best Overall
Stanley 25 ft. PowerLock Tape Measure
- Great for everyday work
- Easy to use
- Good value
- Efficient
Best For Value
Komelon SL2825 Self-Lock Power Tape
- It has a modern look.
- Durable and sturdy.
- It provides high performance.
- Easy readability.
Best Heavy-Duty
Ryobi 25 ft. Tape Measure with Overmold
- Lightweight and compact
- Includes fraction markings
- Good self-retraction
- Low price
We put the best tape measures on the market to the test. Check out what happened in our trials to determine the best accurate, long-lasting, and simple-to-use measuring tape that suits your needs.
It’s imperative to have the greatest tape measure for your requirements to prevent the annoyance of purchasing the wrong instrument that doesn’t do the job.
Invest in a high-quality tape measure, and you’ll have a long-lasting instrument for your workshop or garage. To help you make the best choice, we’ve provided our tested top picks below along with a helpful buying guide.
In our analysis of the top online tape measures, we considered their precision, robustness, and ease of use. The Stanley PowerLock, which is also our top pick, has a strong metal casing, clear stud markings, and a heat-treated spring for a clean and smooth retraction.
Stanley 25 ft. PowerLock Tape Measure – Best Tape Measure Overall
Additional 10 feet of standout
Our top selection is the Stanley PowerLock. While 25 feet for a tape measure is basic, there are other alternatives of 12, 16, 30, or 35 feet, as well as 10 feet of standout, in addition to the regular 25 feet.
This makes it possible to stretch it out up to 10 feet before it sags or droops, making it possible to complete many measuring tasks by yourself without the assistance of a partner.
Robust blade
With the blade lock, you can precisely place the measuring tape’s stop point thanks to the strong, chrome-plated housing and Mylar-coated blade that can withstand even moderate use.
Easy to carry
It can be carried everywhere because of its tiny size, which easily fits in your hand or tool belt. To improve accuracy while measuring long distances, this tape measure incorporates a Stanley’s Tru-Zero hook that starts the measures at the beginning of the tape.
Accurate marking
It’s perfect for framing projects because of the 16-inch and 19.2-inch stud marks. The tape measure has measurement markings that are accurate to 1/16 inch, but it does not have metric measurements.
Pros
- The tape measure construction is pretty sturdy.
- The tape measure also comes with stud markings.
Cons
- It does not have metric measurements.
Verdict
If you are looking for an extra long, robust, and easy-to-carry tape measure, then Stanley is perhaps the right choice for you. It is also well-received by many professionals because of its dynamic features.
Komelon SL2825 Self-Lock Power Tape – Best Tape Measure For Value
Pocket-friendly
If you just use a tape measure sometimes, there’s no need to invest a lot of money in one. For simply a few dollars, you can acquire an accurate tape measure from Komelon that does the job.
12 feet extension
The Professional has a maximum extension of 12 feet and prints measurements in centimeters and inches down to 1/16 of an inch.
Ergonomic
Due to its ergonomic shape, you can hold it in your hand easily, and the connected belt clip lets you keep it close to your hand.
Sturdy blade
The blade’s nylon coating allows it to be stretched to the desired position and is secured by a lock. The blade automatically returns to its housing made of sturdy plastic once it is released.
Pros
- It does have metric measurements.
- It comes at a reasonable price.
Cons
- The length of the tape measure may be short for some.
Verdict
If you are looking for a budget-friendly, sturdy, and easy-to-read tape measure then Komelon is what you need. This one is easy on the pocket yet works like butter with precise readings. If you are just starting with some DIY project, you might get your hands on it.
Ryobi 25 ft. Tape Measure with Overmold – Best Heavy-Duty Tape Measure
Very handy
This durable 25-foot tape measure from Ryobi can come in handy if you tend to be rough with your instruments.
Convenient wire clip
It incorporates a convenient wire form clip that keeps the tool tight and within reach while preventing fraying on your clothing or belt.
Strong case grip
The tape case is strengthened with rubber for impact protection and a pleasant grip, and the blade features a wear-resistant nylon covering.
Numbered marking
Unlike many other tape measures, this one shows fractions of an inch as numbers rather than little lines. There are no metric measurements; it exclusively uses imperial measurements. Seven feet of standout means that you won’t need a helper to hold down the blade in position.
Pros
- It features a rubber over mold
- The tape measure has fractions written in numerals
Cons
- It has a short standout
Verdict
If your tape measure keeps falling off, and you are in the market looking for one that stays put and makes your work a lot easier, then Ryobi is exactly what you need.
It is very handy, has a strong grip, and the numbered marking makes taking measurements a lot more accurate.
Craftsman Tape Measure, Self-Lock, 25-Foot – Best Tape Measure With Fractions
Sturdy make
The Craftsman 25-foot tape measure screams excellence from every angle, and it is built to withstand heavy usage. The case’s top and bottom borders are somewhat rubberized and it is constructed from heavy-duty molded polyethylene.
Durable and corrosion-resistant blade
The metal blade of the belt clip is coated with nylon to increase durability and excellent corrosion resistance, and the belt clip is constructed from refined solid steel.
Customary graphic markings
When we compared the Craftsman tape’s measures to those on our steel measure, they exactly matched our expectations. The tape has the customary graphic markings every 16.2 and 19.2 inches.
Three-riveted tang and self-locking
The tool has a three-riveted tang and a lock button that feels sturdy and has labels indicating which way is locked or which is unlocked so that the user does not get confused.
Additionally, the tape has a self-locking feature, making it ideal for anyone who doesn’t want to spend extra time manually setting the lock.
Markings on both sides of the blade
The fact that incremental fractions are written along the bottom side of the tape makes this tape measure superior to some others even if it only has imperial measures. Smooth motion and consistent, controlled retraction are both characteristics of the blade.
Pros
- When subjected to prolonged usage and testing, high-quality construction holds up.
- Designated fractions of a smaller size are excellent for precision measurements.
- The blade retracts evenly and moves smoothly while self-locking.
Cons
- The tape measure does not have metric measurements
Verdict
If your last tape measure hit the rust and now you want something that has a long life, then don’t look further than Craftsman tape measure. The ergonomics of the tape measure make it very appealing to many users. The design is sturdy, with customary graphic marking as well as a self-locking mechanism.
Milwaukee 25-Foot Magnetic Tape Measure – Best Magnetic Tape Measure
Compact profile
In comparison to most other tape measures, the Milwaukee 25-Foot Magnetic Tape Measure housing is larger and has a one-inch tape width.
However, the compact profile with gripping nylon in the correct places and the short and stocky build make it an excellent choice for simple one-handed usage for hands of most sizes.
Large housing
With a one-inch tape width, the Milwaukee 25-Foot Magnetic Tape Measure has a larger housing than the majority of other tape measures.
However, its short, stocky, compact design with gripping nylon in the appropriate spots makes it a perfect choice for simple one-handed usage for hands of most sizes.
Easy locking mechanism
The locking mechanism contributes to the convenience of the use of this hand tool. Since most people won’t need to release what’s in their other hand, they can set or retract the measuring tape without having to release their grip on it.
Pros
- It has a very smooth locking mechanism
- It encompasses easy-to-read markings
- It comes with a finger brake
Cons
- The belt clip is a bit stiff for use.
Verdict
If you’re a DIY enthusiast or looking for a tough, long-lasting tape measure to take about the job site, this is an easy recommendation.
The easy locking mechanism is what intrigues many users of Milwaukee tape measure. Another interesting features are its compact size, making it suitable to be used in small spaces. The large housing also makes the tape measure a lot more appealing.
Buyer’s Guide On How To Choose Among The Best Tape Measures
1. Accuracy
A tape measure must be precise before you can worry about anything else. Nothing else matters if it isn’t. Almost every well-known tape measure performs admirably in this regard.
The inaccurate ones frequently have a bent hook that you may straighten with a Lixer tape measure calibration tool.
2. Durability
After you’ve determined that your tape is accurate, the next important problem is durability. A tape measure that has at least four attachment points on the body and a lot of over mold to shield it will have the highest longevity.
Keep an eye out for the hook’s at least three rivets, the nylon coating covering the whole blade, and any extra coating that may be present beyond the first foot or so.
3. Length
The optimum tape measure length is entirely based on your requirements, but we believe a 25-foot tape is the greatest all-around option.
Choose a 16-foot if you want something more compact. If you find that you are frequently measuring longer distances than 25 feet at a time, use a 35-foot.
4. Clip Design
Your experience with a tape measure can be made or broken by the clip you choose. A design that easily glides on and off the belt is another important factor, along with the clip’s durability.
In the store, you may test the clip strength by pushing on it while it’s still in the packaging. The easiness of sliding on and off is a little more tricky, but we’ve found that clips with a bulge out at the bottom work well.
5. Visibility
All you need to do is be able to understand the marks if it’s exact and challenging. There are several unique techniques to increase visibility when looking for the best tape measure.
You can use larger marks, invert contrast, or even deviate from the typical black and yellow color scheme. Thankfully, you can simply detect the differences between people’s eyes in the store because they are all unique.
6. Hook Design
A tape measure must unquestionably have simple top and bottom hooks. The ideal tape measure will have strong side hooks and even turn naturally so the blade edge is flush with the material being measured.
The larger the hook, in general, the better, but you may overdo it. If there is too much bulk, the hook will flip when you try to hold the side.
7. Ergonomics
The way they fit in your palm organically is more important than how much weight they have. Each person has a unique hand, so there are many different perspectives on what size feels the best.
8. Price and Value
Not very long ago, buying a tape measure for more than $20 was considered to be a lot. High-end cassettes can now be purchased for $30 or more.
At those higher price tiers, you unquestionably get superior features and durability, but it’s up to you to determine whether they’re worth it.
Additional Features To Consider When Choosing Tape Measures
1. Magnetic Hook
When completing a layout or measuring near steel, a magnetic hook comes in handy. However, there are situations when you may not want it.
2. Blade Coating
The blade’s nylon coating assists in minimizing wear, which eventually leads to rust and peeling.
3. Finger Brake
These tape measures have some springs that, if you’re not careful, could pinch your finger.
4. Auto Lock
Whether you like it or not, auto-lock mechanisms prevent the tape from extending and prevent you from using the thumb lock.
Our Top Choice Among The Best Tape Measures
For a variety of reasons, the Stanley PowerLock is the ideal tape measure. It boasts a tough blade, a useful tang, a sturdy stand, a powerful locking lever, and a handy belt hook. Because of its simplicity, the PowerLock is a relatively light and portable tool.
It is one of the most affordable cassettes we looked at, as well as one of the finest in terms of quality and value. So what are you waiting for, go ahead and buy the one that suits your needs the best!
FAQ – Best Tape Measures
1. Which Brand Of Measuring Tape Is Best?
The Stanley PowerLock tape measure is what we advise if you’re searching for a sturdy, multipurpose tool that will endure for years. It’s small, weather-resistant, and provides a precise reading.
2. What Tape Measure Do Carpenters Use?
The Komelon tape measures are well-liked because of their affordable pricing. They’re ideal for usage around the house and for folks who frequently misplace their keys.
The line we advise is from their Contractor range, which is better suitable for everyday usage on a construction.
3. How Long Is A Carpenter’s Tape Measure?
The most frequent length measured with tape is 25 feet, while some are as little as 12 feet and others are 30 feet or greater.
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