The Ultimate Guide to Choosing tape measure manufacture

A tape measure is an essential tool for any professional or DIYer, but are all tape measures created equally? The answer is a resounding no. This guide will help you navigate the choices and identify the best tape measures on the market, focusing on key categories such as durability, standout, and price.

Top Tape Measure Recommendations

Highlights

Think you know all about tape measures? Discover new insights in our article on how to read a tape measure!

Best Overall Tape Measure

Crescent Lufkin Shockforce Nite Eye G2

The Crescent Lufkin Shockforce Nite Eye G2 excels in durability, standout, accuracy, visibility, hook grip, ergonomics, and features. While not the best in each category, it balances all these factors well and comes with a unique blade color perfect for those with less-than-perfect vision. Our favorite version is the magnetic one. For those who prefer different styles, there are standard and Auto Lock versions as well.

Price: $35.99 (25-foot magnetic with Nite Eye blade LM1225B-02)

Best Heavy-Duty Tape Measure

The heavy-duty category has seen robust entries over the years, but the DeWalt Tough Series stands out for its solid housing and over-mold protection. It has proven its durability even under extreme conditions, including falls from significant heights. A new version with a built-in rechargeable LED light is available for $34.99, making it unique among competitors.

Price: $24.99 (25-foot DWHT36925S)

Best Magnetic Tape Measure

The Milwaukee second-generation Stud magnetic tape measure is our top pick. This tape measure offers excellent durability with its Exo360 nylon blade coating, a strong magnetic hook, and a finger-stop brake feature that helps control the blade on recoil.

Price: $32.97 (25-foot magnetic 48-22-9725M)

Best Laser Tape Measure

For those who need a laser measurement function, the Skil laser distance measure is the best option. It allows for traditional measuring, real-time measurement up to 65 feet, and quick area calculations with an accuracy of ±1/8-inch.

For an in-depth look at laser distance measures, check out our best laser distance measure recommendations.

Price: $49.99 (ME9821-00)

Best Value for Money Tape Measure

Stanley FatMax Tape Measures

When considering value, the Stanley FatMax stands out. It’s accurate, reliable, and affordable, often cited as the go-to model by professionals. You can find the classic 25-foot tape for just under $20.

Price: $17.99 (25-foot 33-725)

Best Budget Tape Measure for Home Use

Stanley 25-ft Tape Measure

For casual home use, the Stanley 25-ft tape measure offers accuracy without the extra cost. While it lacks the durability and standout of premium models, it is an excellent budget option for basic tasks around the house.

Price: $4.97 (30-455S)

Best Tape Measure Brands

When talking to professionals, three brands are frequently mentioned: Milwaukee, Stanley, and Tajima. Milwaukee is widely respected for its quality and range of models. Stanley, especially the FatMax line, is known for its reliability and variety. Tajima earns loyalty from those in the know for its exceptional quality.

Additional Recommendations

Brands like HART, Klein, Komelon, Ox Tools, and Stabila also offer excellent options. For example, HART’s Pro Grade model is highly recommended for its blend of standout, durability, and affordability. Klein’s tape measures excel in magnetic hold, while Komelon tapes are great for those on a tighter budget but need a reliable option.

Best Klein Tape Measure

Klein's magnetic models offer excellent grip, standout, and additional features like a conduit bending table, making them a solid choice for electricians and other professionals.

Price: $29.97 (25-foot magnetic 9225R)

Best Komelon Tape Measure

Komelon is known for its affordability and durability, making it an ideal choice for both home use and professional applications.

Price: $18.98 (25-foot magnetic M25LR)

Best Stabila Tape Measure

Stabila’s BM 300 series stands out for its durable housing and nylon-coated blade, making it a strong contender for those needing a resilient tape measure.

Price: $26.25 (26-foot 30526)

Best Tajima Tape Measure

The GS Lock line by Tajima is favored for its rugged design and dual-sided blade printing, making it a reliable choice for frequent users.

Price: $42.08

Which Tape Measure is the Most Accurate?

Accuracy boils down to the printing on the blade and the correct offset movement of the hook. Most inaccuracies stem from a bent hook rather than manufacturing defects. Using a tape measure calibrating device can solve these issues.

Is a Digital Tape Measure Accurate?

Digital tape measures and laser distance measures come with their own accuracy ratings. While laser measures are usually precise up to ±1/8-inch at 33 feet, digital readouts on tapes can sometimes be less reliable. However, the Reekon T1 Tomahawk is an exception, offering high accuracy.

What Class of Tape Measure is Best?

If you had to choose one, a 25-foot magnetic tape measure stands out for its length, weight, and functionality. This class is the most versatile and commonly carried by professionals.

What Should You Not Do with a Tape Measure?

Here are some common pitfalls to avoid:

• Do not use the tape measure to measure body parts; use a tailor’s sewing tape instead.
• Letting the blade snap back can damage the hook or housing.
• Stepping on the blade can cause it to crack or break.
• Opening the housing can lead to irreversible damage to the spring mechanism.
• Keep your tape measure dry to prevent rust.

Buying Guide for the Best Tape Measure

Accuracy

Accuracy is paramount. Most name-brand tape measures meet this criterion unless they suffer from a bent hook.

Durability

Look for features like multiple connection points, over-mold protection, and rivet-held hooks to ensure long-lasting use.

Length

The optimal tape measure length depends on your needs, though a 25-foot tape measure is the most versatile.

Clip Design

A strong, well-designed clip can make your tape measure more convenient to use.

Visibility

Visibility of markings can vary; choose a tape measure that suits your eyesight needs.

Standout and Throw

Standout up to 9 feet is usually adequate for most tasks. Throw capacity helps you measure long distances without extra steps.

Hook Design

Larger hooks are typically better but should not flip over when grabbing material.

Ergonomics

Choose a tape measure that fits comfortably in your hand.

Price and Value

Balance the price with the features and durability you need. Sometimes paying a bit more upfront can save in the long run.

Bonus Features

Magnetic Hook

Useful for working around steel, but can be a hindrance in some situations.

Nylon Blade Coating

Reduces wear and tear on the blade.

Finger Brake

Prevents finger pinches from the spring mechanism.

Dual Side Blade Printing

Offers better visibility in different scenarios.

Auto Lock

Stops the tape as you extend it, eliminating the need for a thumb lock.

Bonus Markings and Scales

Additional scales can add more utility to your tape measure.

Why Trust This Guide?

There are numerous articles claiming to know the best tape measure. Unlike them, this guide is crafted by experts with over 15 years of hands-on experience. Our recommendations are based on thorough testing and real-world application, not just SEO writing.

Best Tape Measure Comparison Testing

Who Makes the Best Tape Measure?

Debates over tape measure and hammer brands are common on job sites. Pro-grade tape measures must retain their accuracy despite regular job site abuses. In this comprehensive test, we evaluated tape measures from top brands including Dewalt, Klein, Milwaukee, Stanley, and more, focusing on recoil, abrasion, magnetic pull, debris resistance, standout, hook movement, ergonomics, readability, and drop resistance.

Want more information on the best professional socket set? Feel free to contact us.