Best Tape Measures for Big and Small Projects

Have you ever wondered what makes a building perfectly built? It is not only because of the materials or the design. Every construction project, even dressmaking and crafts, is built with accurate measurements using the best tape measure.

Whether you are doing a DIY home renovation, building a house, or making a dress, you need the most basic tool—a tape measure. In every tool man’s kit, there is a tape measure. If you don’t have it yet, then you better get one for yourself. You will never know when you will need it, after all.

A tape measure is compact, essential, and inexpensive. There are many tape measures in stores, but can you determine which one functions accurately and is durable enough to last for long years? We have picked the three of the best ones today to help you decide which one meets your needs and preferences.

Best Tape Measure: The Contenders

Tape measures look similar, but if you take a closer look at each product, there could be many differences too. This means that each tape measure has its own key features, advantages, and drawbacks.

1. Stanley Powerlock Tape Measure

Nothing beats a product that is made by a trusted manufacturer. Stanley has been creating accurate and durable tape measures since 1963. Find out more about what this particular Stanley creation has to offer below.

Key Features

The Stanley Powerlock Tape Measure comes in three sizes: 25 feet, 30 feet, and 35 feet. Each one boasts a set of basic features such as inch designations and 16-inch and 19.2-inch stud center markings. The markings are printed crisp and clear enough to be easily read.

Moreover, this tape measure comes in a shock-proof ABS case molded with rubber for durability. The blade is coated with mylar, which helps prolong its life, while the spring maintains its function because it is treated with heat.

In order to prevent the tape from suddenly retracting back in while taking the measurements, the Stanley Powerlock Tape Measure is designed with a lock that secures the blade.

With the patented end hook, you can attach this tape measure to the other end of the object being measured. The hook also comes with a nail notch where you can hook on to a nail or screw. The hook is made from a corrosion-resistant material.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Doesn’t easily break
  • Reliable measurements
  • Easy to use and budget-friendly
  • Lightweight and portable

Cons

  • Sharp nicks along the metal edges

2. Komelon Power Tape

The Komelon Power Tape is available in two sizes, each of which come in various colors that you can choose from. If you wish to know more about what this tape measure has to offer, then read on to find out its features, pros, and cons.

Key Features

The Komelon Power Tape is one revolutionary product because it functions very accurately and efficiently. Its retractable blade doesn’t come with a lock button, but with a self-lock mechanism. What does this mean?

The self-lock mechanism is a safe and efficient feature that is even better than the lock button. With this, when you pull the blade out, you can simply let it go, and the blade stays out without the need to attach the end hook.

For durability, the blade is coated with nylon. It also comes with fractional graduations so you can take easy-to-read and accurate measurements. The housing, on the other hand, is ergonomically designed for comfortable use.

When you are finished taking the measurements, you can simply retract the blade back in by pressing the top button. Since it is not advisable to retract the blade in full force, you can control the speed of the return with the top button.

This tape measure weighs just four pounds and has dimensions of 9.6 by 4.8 by 6.8 inches.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Very convenient to use
  • Has a secure and comfortable grip
  • Portable and lightweight
  • Lasts for many years

Cons

  • Quite expensive

3. eTape16 Digital Tape Measure

The eTape16 Digital Tape Measure is among the most innovative tools that professional builders and DIY enthusiasts alike will definitely love. Its revolutionary features are not only relevant to the tape measure, but also to its expanded functions. It boasts advanced features that make it stand out among the other brands in the market.
Let us find out why eTape16 Digital Tape Measure is considered one of the best-selling, most innovative tape measures today.

Key Features

This digital measuring tape conveniently measures objects and spaces in either US or metric units. When needed, you can also use its centerline calculation so that you wouldn’t have to calculate manually. The digital display of the eTape16 Digital Tape Measure is large for easy reading, and while you pull the tape blade out, the measurement displays on the screen.
Powered with a coin battery 2032, you can rely on the eTape16 Digital Tape Measure anytime. The battery lasts for up to 64 hours of uninterrupted use, and to save the battery, the product automatically shuts off when not in use.

The eTape16 Digital Tape Measure is made to last even in rugged conditions. It is made of polycarbonate plastic and has a sleek design. It is also weather resistant and doesn’t break easily.
On another note, when measuring corners, you don’t have to bend the tape blade. You just need to choose the back of the measuring tape as the beginning point. With this feature, you can easily measure anything without compromising accuracy. You also don’t need notepads to write the measurements since you can take three measurements in one pull of the blade with its three memories.

The eTape16 Digital Tape Measure is not only intended for professional builders, but also for handypersons. It has a variety of uses in the garage, office, and the entire household, making it a must-have tool.
Lastly, you can easily stow this tape measure since it doesn’t take up too much space and doesn’t add weight to a toolbox. In fact, its dimension is 6.8 by 5 by 1.9 inches and approximate weight is 0.48 pounds.

Pros & Cons

Pros

  • Sturdy and accurate
  • Very convenient to use
  • Multipurpose and reliable
  • Easy to read
  • Extended battery life
  • Weather-resistant

Cons

  • Buttons small for big fingers
  • The electro-mechanical system doesn’t last for long years.

The Verdict

We have presented our top picks when it comes to the best tape measures. Looking at each of their features, pros, and cons, which one has appealed to you the most?
If you ask us, we would definitely put our money on the Komelon Power Tape because of its automatic lock mechanism.

It locks the length while you measure it and this can be the most convenient feature a tape measure can ever have. Aside from this valuable feature, the Komelon Power Tape is made with nylon-coated blade and has a case made of rubber.

Then again, the eTape16 Digital Tape Measure is also a good consideration because it has a variety of uses more than the other two tape measures. It can be used anywhere from big construction projects to random household repairs. It can calculate the centerline, convert units, and save three measurements at a time.

That said, although the eTape16 Digital Tape Measure is powered by a coin battery that can last for up to 64 hours, many old timers still think that Komelon Power Tape is better. That is because it has more rugged construction and is made of high-quality materials. You can also conveniently take measurements by locking up the blade and push the button when finished.
Overall, we think that the Komelon Power Tape is the best among the three because it is inexpensive, durable, and very convenient to use.

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