- The best measuring tape we tested is the Komelon Self-Lock Tape, as our expert testers found the self-locking design and durable build lent itself to perform well in our tests.
- High-end tape measures will set you back around $25-$35, but our team found some great models that are available that for under $20.
- Tape measures are a simple, yet necessary, tool for your tool set whether you’re a professional contractor or just looking to knock-out some DIY projects at home.
Tape measures are a necessity in every home tool kit. But as technology becomes more advanced, so do tape measures.
You can now buy a standard tape measure with a blade you read manually or a digital one that takes measurements for you. To help you decide on what tape measure is best for your needs, we researched over 30 of the top tape measures on the market and we personally tested the top five. We also over 300 customer reviews. Read the guide below for more of our top picks, reviews, and more.
Tape Measure Reviews
We rigorously tested each tape measure you see featured in this review. At the end of the day, our goal is to recommend tape measures that provide our readers with the best overall user experience in a fair, balanced, and transparent way.
During testing, we evaluate each tape measure for the following:
- User-friendliness
- Overall performance
- Bonus features and components
- Areas for improvement and potential deal-breakers
Read on to learn more about each of our top picks below:
Best Tape Measure
Komelon Self-Lock Tape
Pros and Cons of Komelon Self-Lock Tape
- Auto-locks, meaning it locks without the user having to push the lever down
- Features an easy-to-use recoiling button in a user-friendly position
- Has a comfortable grip and a rubberized case
- Extends less far than some heavy-duty tape measures
- Does not have metric measurements or fractions
What People Are Saying About The Komelon Self-Lock Tape
Positive customer reviews noted that the Komelon SL2825 produced accurate measurements and was easy to read. Many stated that it was well-made, especially considering its affordable price. Negative customer reviews said the measurements were not specific enough, and others said the locking mechanism jammed.
Most Accurate Tape Measure
Craftsman 25 Ft. Tape Measure
This tape measure from Craftsman has an excellent self-locking feature and extends up to 25 feet. It has easy-to-read measurements and is particularly effective at measuring long distances. It also includes fractions printed on the line, allowing you to get exact measurements.
Pros and Cons of Craftsman 25 Ft. Tape Measure
- Lists fractions for specific measurements
- Features a self-locking feature that keeps the blade in place
- Has its locking mechanism located away from the measurer to avoid accidents
- Has a clip that feels flimsy and small
- Isn’t ideal for short distances
What People Are Saying About The Craftsman 25 Ft. Tape Measure
Positive reviews said the CRAFTSMAN tape measure was easy to read and provided good value. Other reviews highlighted its locking mechanism and its specific measurements. However, negative reviews criticized this model for its heaviness and not being sturdy enough.
Best Magnetic Tape Measure
Milwaukee Magnetic Tape Measure
This magnetic tape measure from Milwaukee is impressive due to its long readout, smooth locking mechanism, and useful magnetic hook design. It features a convenient finger stop that ensures you won’t get hit when the line recedes. It also has a sturdy and durable clip.
Pros and Cons of Milwaukee Magnetic Tape Measure
- Is heavy-duty and drop resistant
- Has a magnetic design that allows for more convenient measuring
- Features a useful finger stop
- Has a difficult-to-open clip
- Doesn’t automatically lock
What People Are Saying About The Milwaukee Magnetic Tape Measure
Customers who like the Milwaukee 25-foot magnetic tape measure commented on its large, easy-to-read numbers, durable design, and magnetism. However, those who were let down by this product said that the packaging was particularly difficult to remove, and others said it folded too easily.
Most Durable Tape Measure
Stanley FatMax Tape Measure
The Stanley FatMax tape measure extends up to 35 feet and is great for heavy-duty actions and long distances, such as when working in a construction job site. It received high marks for its intuitive clip design and its large numbers that are easy to read even from a distance.
Pros and Cons of Stanley FatMax Tape Measure
- Extends up to 35 feet
- Self-locks when fully extended
- Has a sturdy, compact clip
- Isn’t good for measuring short distances
- Has a difficult-to-use locking mechanism
What People Are Saying About The Stanley FatMax Tape Measure
Customers who were happy with the Stanley FatMax said it was easy to read, long-lasting, and durable in tough conditions. However, others found it difficult to handle during retraction. Others found the tape flimsy.
Best Digital Tape Measure
eTape16 Digital Tape Measure
This tape measure from eTape16 has the best display of any tape measure we tested, showing exact measurements on an easy-to-see digital screen that updated instantly as you moved the device in or out. It also allows you to swap between imperial and metric measurements.
Pros and Cons of eTape16 Digital Tape Measure
- Has a digital display so you can easily see the measurements
- Can measure both imperial and metric systems
- Features side buttons to switch between measurement units and memorize specific measurements
- Has a difficult-to-use locking mechanism
- Can’t measure long distances
What People Are Saying About The eTape16 Digital Tape Measure
Satisfied customers said the eTape digital tape measure was easy to read and accurate. Many noted its durable build. However, negative reviews said that the digital display wasn’t always accurate, and that the blade couldn’t be pulled out quickly without causing glitches on the display.
Tape Measure Guide
In addition to choosing between a standard and digital tape measure, there are several other important factors worth considering before choosing what product is best for you.
Look at each tape measure’s blade length to ensure it will be long enough for your needs. Blade width can also play a factor, especially if you will be measuring long distances. You should also be aware of the measurement system used (US residents will likely want a product that does not use the metric system of measurements) and the durability of the tool, especially if you plan to bring it with you to a job site or on the go. Read our buying guide below for more information on how to select the best tape measure.
What is the standard blade length of a tape measure?
Most blades range in length from six to 100 feet. Before purchasing a tape measure, consider what tasks you’ll need it for to ensure you pick one that has a long enough reach.
What’s the standard blade width of a tape measure?
Blades are typically between 0.25 and 1.25 inches in width. The wider the blade, the further you’ll be able to extend it unsupported before it curves.
What measurement system do tape measures use?
Depending on the measurement system you prefer to use, you’ll want a measuring tool that measures in centimeters or inches. You can find double-sided tape measures that have a measurement system on each side or digital models that can switch between systems.
How can you tell if a tape measure is durable?
Your tape measure’s blade should be coated in nylon to protect it from normal wear and tear. The case should be rubberized to make it easier to grip and prevent the plastic body from cracking if it’s dropped.
How To Use a Tape Measure
Using a tape measure may seem simple, but there are some important tips and tricks to keep in mind to ensure you’re getting the most accurate readings. Here are some things to remember the next time you use a tape measure.
- When measuring, try to keep the tape measure as straight as possible to ensure you get an accurate reading.
- If you own more than one tape measure and are trying to find the exact center point of a piece of wood or other material, pull one tape measure across from one side and one from the other side. Find the point at which the measurements match to determine the true center.
- You can use a tape measure like a ruler to draw straight lines. Simply hook the tab onto a table ledge and lock the tape into the desired length of your line. From there, use a pencil to draw along the edge of the tape.
- If you are a solo DIYer and don’t have an extra set of hands available, you can use the small hole in the front of a hook table on most tape measures called a nail notch to hook onto a nail or screw. This will keep it in place so you can pull from the other side and get a measurement.
- When you’re done using the tape measure, don’t let it slam back into the housing at full speed. Instead, place your finger on the bottom of the tape below the housing to act as a buffer. Or, if your tape measure offers speed control when recoiling, reel it in as slowly as possible.
- To ensure you never lose your tape measure, you can perform a small DIY project to connect it to a magnetic surface.
Best Rated Tape Measures: Our Conclusion
Above all, the best rated tape measures are accurate and durable. However, your preferred method of display will most likely determine which tape measure is best for your needs.
Below are the This Old House Testing Team’s picks for the best tape measures on the market in 2024:
- Best Tape Measure: Komelon Self-Lock Tape
- Most Accurate Tape Measure: Craftsman 25 Ft. Tape Measure
- Best Magnetic Tape Measure: Milwaukee Magnetic Tape Measure
- Most Durable Tape Measure: Stanley FatMax Tape Measure
- Best Digital Tape Measure: eTape16 Digital Tape Measure
Tape Measures: FAQ
Below are some frequently asked questions about tape measures:
What is a brake or lock on a tape measure?
A brake is a button on a tape measure that you can hold down to keep the blade extended. A lock is a similar feature, except the blade remains extended without you having to keep your finger on a button. Some tape measures are self-locking.
What does the hook on a tape measure do?
The end hook on a tape measure allows you to anchor the end of the blade on a seam or edge. This is helpful if you’re measuring something without assistance. Some hooks are magnetic, allowing you to keep the tip in place by attaching it to metal.
How long does my tape measure need to be if I only use it for occasional household tasks?
If you only use your tape measure to hang the occasional picture frame, you likely only need a 16-foot blade.
Best Tape Measure Review: How We Selected Tape Measures
To provide our readers with the best product recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide my selection process.
Initial research: Our research process began by generating a list of tape measures with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4-5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
We also took into account how durable each product type should be to serve its intended purpose for several years or more. Finally, we used that information to help us evaluate whether each manufacturer’s warranty coverage was adequate and trustworthy.
Expert insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, we looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final product selection: We then began fine-tuning my list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature-set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Our Testing Process
Our team has been reviewing products, conducting testing, and creating resources for homeowners for over six years. We take pride in our testing and review process, which we carefully customize to produce the most helpful information for homeowners.
For tape measures, we examine the following factors:
- User experience: I evaluated each tape measure for the comfortability of the ergonomic grip, feed action of the blade, readability of the numbers and distance indicators, and user-friendliness of the locking mechanism.
- Length and blade standout: I considered the maximum distance each product could measure. We then tested the maximum distance each tape measure blade could extend (or “stand out”) before folding.
- Fundamental features: I evaluated each tape measure for the quality and feel of the blade, sturdiness and flexibility of the belt clip, reliability and stability of the metal hook (or tang), and design of the lock button.
- Additional features: During testing, I considered optional features and how they affected the tape measure’s functionality. I looked at whether the blade was self-locking or manual-locking and how easy it was to read the indicators. I also considered if it offered imperial and metric units of measurement or just imperial units and if it was electronic.
- Price and warranty: Most tape measures cost between $10 and $50. In this guide, I tried to include a high-quality, warranty-backed option for every budget.
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
The This Old House Team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.