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A high-quality tape measure is essential for any DIYer or professional carpenter. There are a variety of tape measures online along with different features making it a potential challenge to know which one to use.
We went through hundreds of tape measures and compared their pros and cons, so you dont have to go through that trouble. These are our top picks for the best tape measures in 2022. We also list their best features so you can make an informed decision and get the most value for your money.
Tape Measures: Buying Guide
Many professionals find it difficult to find the right tape measure to meet their needs. Whats the use of owning a measuring tape if it cant even measure the desired length? Consumers tend to choose the measuring tapes that are most suitable for their needs when buying measuring tapes. There are many options on the market, so it can be difficult to choose the right measurement tapes. This buying guide will help you make an informed choice. Let’s get started.
What Makes A Good Tape Measure?
Stand-out blade
This is the length of a tape blade before it breaks. Some tapes can have a blade which falls even with a small amount of extension. Some tape measures can be extended to a very long distance without 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 tapes length
In order to avoid wasting money on a measuring tape that isnt long enough for your purposes, its critical that you pay attention to the tapes length before making a purchase.
Readings
Readings play a crucial role in accurate measurements. It is imperative that the readings are clearly labeled and visible from a distance. You will have to label the tape correctly if you want the measurements or data to be accurate.
A clip or belt holder
Cashed tape measures often include a nylon belt clip or a steel belt clip that is attached to the toolbelt or pocket. 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
Its helpful to have tape measures that automatically lock as you draw them out if youre working alone or if the work area is congested. For example, when youre 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. Its not complicated at all. The blade will retract fully or be reduced when you release your finger.
Unit markings
A tape measure that is both metric and American Imperial in feet and inches may be required depending on what type of carpentry work you do. You can choose from either of the markings on many of our tape measures.
Types Of Tape Measure
You should never choose a tape measure randomly. For certain applications, it is best to use a specific type of tape measure.
A cased tape measure
These tape measures are housed in a rubber or metal holder that is attached to fiberglass or a metal measuring strip. It may be attached to a tool belt or stowed in a pocket with ease. A 7.6 m tape measure is a common length for crafts and DIY projects.
Tapes with open-reel openings
Contractors, engineers, and construction workers commonly use these types of measuring tapes. They are usually made of fiberglass and have a hand crank to retract them. With measurements in both meters and feet, they can range in length from 25 to 152.4 m
Diameter tapes
These tapes can be used to measure circles and columns. D-tapes feature a flexible metal or fabric blade that may be wrapped around pipes or poles. Because they use pi to calculate the circumference and diameter of the objects they measure, these measuring tapes are extremely precise. D-tapes come in a range of lengths, from 30 cm to 15.2 m, and you can choose one depending on the intended use.
Sewing tapes
Vinyl or cloth models are better suited for sewing as they can be easily shaped to fit the body. They are available from 60 to 305 cm in length. There are two main options for sewing tapes: plain metal strips and retractable cases.
How To Buy 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 tapes retraction mechanism, it must be both smooth and robust.
Reinforced tip
To increase its durability and stability, many manufacturers increase the number or rivets at the tip. 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
Basic tape measures can be purchased without a locking system. Sewing tape measures fall into this category because they are affordable. You may be able to find some basic measuring tapes with an auto-lock option if you do some further investigation.
Mid-range
Tape measures that are longer and more durable may be available for home improvement projects.
Expensive
There are high-quality tape measures with additional capabilities for as little as High-end tape measures are preferred by architects, contractors, and engineers since they are expected to endure for a few years.
Review Of The Best Tape Measures For 2022
Craftsman tape is designed for professional-grade heavy-duty tasks. It helps them to get precise measurements for precise cuttings. Its sophisticated design will grab your attention from the very first look. Weighing only a little above 369 grams, it is extremely portable. It can be carried with you on your commute to work, or in your tool bag while at your workshop. You can be sure of 100% accuracy with the tape measure thanks to its rubber over-mold.
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
- 2.1 m of standout size
- Rubber over-mold for safety
- Markings in easy-to-read fonts
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 from highly durable tailor vinyl, which doesn’t deform and provides excellent consistency in measurement for accuracy. The soft plastic material is super flexible. Plus, it has metal tabs on both ends to prevent fraying. The black markings on the tape measure are large enough that you can read them from far away, so you don’t have to move back and forth while working.
Pros
- Flexible material for curved measurements
- The ends are protected from fraying by metal tabs
- Durable and long-lasting
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. It will measure any surface, no matter how rough or smooth.
This measuring tape’s best feature is its erasable pad. It allows users to record measurements while they are working. It has a protective rubber boot that keeps the tape safe. It is extremely lightweight at 283g. If you are left-handed, you will be able to use it just as effectively as a right-handed person would.
Pros
- Easy to transport and light weight
- Suitable for both right and left-handed
- Four-rivet nose clip for efficient use
Cons
- Sometimes, you might snap
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 1-1/10 cm 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 3.0 m blade standout. When you need to take long measurements, the 3.0 m threshold gives you maximum reach and ultimate control.
Pros
- Construction quality that is battle-proof
- Composite housing for military use
- Tactical design for convenient use
- For added durability, Mil-X coating
Cons
- Weighs more than normal tape measures
A tape measure is not necessary if you are doing a lot DIY projects. 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. It is made of rubberized, impact-resistant material that makes it stronger and more resistant to damage. This tape measure is available in a variety of sizes to suit your needs. It is perfect for DIYers and professional tradesmen alike.
Pros
- Nylon coated blades last longer
- High visibility case color in green
- The blade has stud markings
Cons
- Doesnt have magnets
