Best Tape Measures

Some people believe that a tape measure is supposed to be a simple measuring device, emphasis on "simple". But these people clearly haven't had the pleasure to work with eTape16 ET16.75-db-RP, a digital model that adds a touch of high-tech to the usually simple and straightforward tool.

The LCD screen on top of the plastic casing displays the measurements and all of the device's functions. One thing we like in particular about this tool is that it works with both metric and imperial units, making it a great choice for people all over the world.

Plus, it doesn't just measure distance but also converts measurements from fractions to decimals or inches to centimeters. It is also capable of calculating midpoints (a particularly useful feature that will help you hang a picture, among other things).

The imperial and metric tape measure incorporates 3 memory functions, including a short-term measurement hold and 2 long-term memories, a function that will prove to be really helpful for professional tradesmen who often work on similar projects.

Given that this is an electronic device and not your typical basic measuring tool, the manufacturers made sure to implement a 5-minute automatic turn-off feature so that you don't end up wasting the battery for no reason.

Finally, with this high-end device, you won't have to do the usual tape-bending routine when measuring into a corner. All you'll need to do is select the back of the model as a starting point and you're good to go.

All things considered, eTape16 ET16.75-db-RP is probably the best tape measure for those individuals who prefer their tools high-tech. The sleek modern design encapsulates a variety of useful features, features that will prove to be equally useful to a professional tradesman or an aspiring handyman.

The model from Milwaukee incorporates that nice combination of convenience and sturdiness that you always want out of your essential tools.

In the convenience department, the tape measure has you covered with a 360-degree magnetic hook. A hook like that will always keep the tape in place but it will prove to be especially useful when working with steel studs, threaded rods, and EMTs. On top of that, the blue print scale provides far better visibility, so you'll be able to make sense of the measurements even in low light conditions. The printing is also double-sided, making the tool in question just a tad more versatile.

As for the sturdiness, we would first like to point out the 5-point reinforced frame of the model. This type of frame makes the tape measure far more durable in general and protects the device from drops. But it isn't just the frame. There's also the nylon bond blade protection that will help the wide tape withstand the often severe wear and tear of job site use.

Generally speaking, a device like that is one of the more harmless tools. But it can be pretty easy to hit your finger with the hook. Fortunately, the manufacturers have thought of that and implemented a convenient finger-stop feature that protects your fingers and hands when retracting the blade.

Again, Milwaukee 48-22-7125 might not seem like the most complex option on the market. But the magnetic tape measure is actually far more intricate than you would think. By incorporating a number of useful components and redesigning the more basic parts, the manufacturers have managed to make one hell of a reliable product.

A tape measure isn't one of those things you want to update every few years. Since this is one of the more essential tools, a durable and rugged construction is easily the most important characteristic of a product like that. And that's exactly what the people at Stanley decided to bank on with this model.

The high-impact ABS case is pretty damn sturdy on its own. But the rubber overmold is an always welcome addition to the overall package as it makes the frame stronger and protects it from drop damage.

Aside from the frame, the mylar-coated blade and the heat-treated spring make the whole thing abrasion-resistant and durable enough for years of everyday use.

That said, banking on a rugged construction doesn't mean that the engineers at Stanley decided to forego everything else. For instance, the company's very own corrosion-resistant Tru-Zero® hook doubles as a pivot. You can use it to draw arcs and circles. On top of that, the hook automatically adjusts in order to handle inside or outside measurements.

Finally, arguably the best thing about this heavy-duty tape measure, aside from the robust construction, is the 16" and 19.2" stud center markings. These marking really simplify framing jobs, making the model in question a particularly suitable option for household applications. And since the secure blade lock definitely won't creep during measurements, you have yourself not just a practical measuring device but a perfect addition to your toolbox.

General Tools is a bit of a misleading name as it implies a certain level of simplicity and even basicness, if you will, the sort of qualities that don't have a lot to do with this particular model.

As you can infer from the title, what we're dealing with here is a 2-in-1 laser tape measure. One press of a big red button and you get fast and easy long-distance measurements from the laser.

There's a simple and convenient LCD screen on top of the frame that will display the results of that measurement. The screen is large and clear, it gives you quick readings and displays not just the measuring results but also the battery status.

A laser like that makes measuring about 10 times faster. But if you don't feel like relying on these technologies, you can always whip out the 16-inch tape and get that usual short-span precision.

Other than that, there isn't that much that differentiates this battery-operated tape measure from any other half-decent model on the market today. The impact-resistant plastic makes the tool sturdy enough to withstand regular professional use.

The whole thing adds up to precisely 3.25 x 2.25 x 3.25 inches. This kind of compact size will allow you to easily fit the small tool in your pocket or hang it on a belt. Plus, it fits the hand rather nicely.

So, if you value speed and precision, you cannot go wrong with this device from General Tools. It gives you accurate short-span and long-distance measurements. It is really easy to use. With this tool, you'll be able to renovate your house without any professional assistance.

Komelon SL2825 doesn't incorporate a bunch of advanced features. It is a simple, reliable, and affordable tool, a great replacement option for your old tape measure.

It isn't necessarily unique to this product but one thing we really like about it is the self-locking mechanism. The mechanism allows the blade to extend really smoothly, making it a bit more convenient to work with the tool. Speaking of which, the usual push-button brings the retractable blade back just as smoothly.

Again, speaking of basic features, the model incorporates the usual 2-rivet hook that will help you fix the tape and keep it in place. The blade is nylon-coated, so it should be able to stay in a serviceable condition for quite some time.

But the focal point and the most important characteristic of this product is probably the impact-resistant rubberized case. This thing will be able to survive countless drops, making it a particularly fitting option for construction sites or any other similar workplaces.

As per usual, the model comes equipped with a belt clip that, as you'd imagine, will allow you to clip the measuring device to your belt. The only issue some people have with this product is that the tape is relatively thin, so you might want to be a bit more careful with it. Aside from that, what we have here is a solid product that will definitely find its place in your toolkit.