Top 4 Tape Measures
Best Value: Komelon SL2825 Self-Lock Power Tape Best Protection: Craftsman CMHT37216S Tape Measure Best Digital Tape Measure: eTape16 ET16.75-db-RP Digital Tape Measure Best Blade: DAYOU Nylon Wrap Blade Tape Measure
Best Value: Komelon SL2825 Self-Lock Power Tape
This product is the most affordable option in this review. It includes standard tape measure features, including a rubberized case, nylon-coated blade, and self-locking mechanism. In addition, the Komelon tape measure has push buttons that allow you to retract the blade when you’re done measuring.
Key Features
25 feet long Measurements in inches Available in multiple lengths and packs Unspecified warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Positive customer reviews noted that this tape measure was accurate and easy to read. Many stated that it was well-made, especially considering its affordable price. Negative customers said that the tape measure’s locking feature didn’t work well.
Best Protection: Craftsman CMHT37216S Tape Measure
While this tape measure was built to last, Craftsman still offers a lifetime warranty that includes free replacements if it fails from material or workmanship defects. The Craftsman tape measure is also offered in multiple lengths that have fractions printed on the blade for better accuracy.
Key Features
16 feet long Measurements in inches Available in multiple lengths and packs Lifetime warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Positive reviews said that the tape measure was easy to read and a good value for the money. Other reviews highlighted its locking mechanism. Negative reviews criticized this tape measure model for how quickly it broke and how heavy it was.
Best Digital Tape Measure: eTape16 ET16.75-db-RP Digital Tape Measure
With a digital screen, the eTape16 ET16.75-db-RP Digital Tape Measure can read measurements for you. It has United States and metric conversions and can save previous measurements to refer back to later.
Key Features
16 feet long Digital display Measurements in inches and centimeters 90-day warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Satisfied customers said that this digital tape measure was easy to read and accurate. Many also noted that it had a durable build. However, negative reviews said that the digital display failed after a short period of time and that the blade couldn’t be pulled out quickly without causing glitches on the display.
Best Blade: DAYOU Nylon Wrap Blade Tape Measure
While other tape measure blades are coated in nylon, this blade from DAYOU is wrapped in it, providing a thicker layer of protection from rust and normal wear and tear. The blade is also 40% thicker than most models on the market, increasing its durability.
Key Features
25 feet long Measurements in inches and centimeters 24-month warranty
What Customers Are Saying
Positive reviews said that this tape measure was easy to read, accurate, and durable. Negative reviews said that this tape measure’s metric scale was unusable. Other reviews said that it arrived with a strange smell.
Buyer’s Guide
In addition to choosing between a standard and digital tape measure, take the following features into account.
Blade Length
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.
Blade Width
Blades will usually be 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.
Measurement System
Depending on the measurement system you prefer to use, you’ll want a measuring tool that either measures in centimeters or inches. You can also find double-sided tape measures that have a measurement system on each side or digital models that can switch between systems.
Durability
Your tape measure’s blade should be coated in nylon to protect it from normal wear and tear. The case should also be rubberized to prevent the plastic body from cracking if it’s dropped.
What is a brake or lock on a tape measure?
A brake is a button 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 hook allows you to anchor the end of the blade on a seam or edge, which is useful 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.
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