The tape measure or measuring tape is an ideal tool for making measurements. Taking the right measures is one of the most important tasks in any job. Not in vain is there the saying: “measure twice, cut only once”. Making mistakes when taking measurements can be serious, which is why meters are such useful tools.

Tape meters, usually called just meters, have a wide variety of formats and patterns. The most common ones are formed by a thin, flexible and rollable tape, on which the measurements appear.

Here we have selected the best digital tape measures that are listed below.

SaleRANK NO. 1
PREXISO 2-in-1 Laser Tape Measure, 135Ft Rechargeable Laser Measurement Tool &...
  • 【NOTE: The screen displayed is the distance of the laser, NOT the tapeline】The 16Ft tape measure is MANUAL
  • High Accuracy 6 Laser Measure Modes: 6 laser measure modes that with extreme accuracy within 1/8 inch, including Distance,...
  • Excellent Tape Measure: Designed with magnetic hook, which can firmly attaches to ferrous material; Double-sided scale & hook for...
  • Type-C charging & Belt Clip: Equipped with li-ion rechargeable battery and USB Type-C charging, more environmental and...
  • Wide Application 2-in-1 Laser Tape Measure: Combining a 135 Ft laser measure and a 16 Ft tape measure; - TIPS: Pay attention to...
RANK NO. 2
eTape 1752-WP-106 Digital Tape Measure, 3/4" x 16'
  • Accurate measuring: ensure that your measurements are accurate and easy to read when equipped with this Etape16 digital tape...
  • Durable construction: this digital tape measure is crafted with weather-resistant polycarbonate plastic for durability and boasts...
  • Multiple memory functions: with three memory functions and a side button wheel to access functions, you can measure multiple areas...
  • Time-saving tool: spend less time recording measurements and more time getting work done when you add this digital tape measure to...
  • Us/metric conversion: let this digital tape measure do the work for you, offering accurate readings and US/metric conversion with...
SaleRANK NO. 3
Laser Measure, DTAPE 328 Feet Digital Laser Tape Measure M/in/Ft Unit Switching...
  • ▲HIGH ACCURACY - With laser precision technology, accuracy ups to ±1/16inch, measuring distance extends to 328 feet; Switchable...
  • ▲LCD BACKLIGHT AND MUTE SETTING - Large backlight screen provides you with a better visibility in dark areas; Mute setting...
  • ▲MULTIPLE MEASUREMENT FEATURES - Area, distance, length, volume, continuous measurement, Pythagorean method-three points;...
  • ▲DURABLE AND HANDY - IP54 waterproof level and dust-proof function protect the laser distance measure to the maximum extent;...
  • ▲WHAT YOU GET - DTAPE Laser Measuring Device 328Ft; 1.5V AAA Batteries; User Manual;Portable Bag; Hand Strap; Package Box; 24...
RANK NO. 4
2-in-1 Digital Tape Measure - LCD Display 16Ft Tape Measure, USB Rechargeable...
  • Note: This tape measure is not equipped with laser.
  • Note: Short Press Unit Switch, you can switch inside measurement which is including the tape's length.
  • 2-in-1 Measuring Tool: ACPOTEL digital tape measure can be displayed simultaneously on the LCD screen. Make your measurement and...
  • Accurate Measurement:This is an accurate measurement tape, tape accuracy is ±1.5mm, digital accuracy is ±2mm. The function of...
  • US/metric conversion: Let this metric tape measure do the work for you. Long press "UNIT" for 4 unit conversions of "m", "ft",...
SaleRANK NO. 5
Fish Scale, Dr.meter Backlit LCD Display 110lb/50kg PS01 Fishing Scale with...
  • 【Extreme Accuracy】: The Dr.meter Fishing Scale can weigh both small and large catches alike, from a mere 0.2 lbs to a jaw...
  • 【Bonus Built-in Tape】: Maybe you also want to know the length of your catch besides weight. We've got it covered! The included...
  • 【Stainless Steel Hook】: Crafted from premium stainless steel, the large and durable hook concealed in the back slot is...
  • 【Endless Possibility】: The Dr. meter Electronic Fishing Scale boasts the specialized functions like weighing unit conversion,...
  • 【On-the-go Tool】: Go easy on your hands even after long-term use. This lightweight and portable comes with a built-in carrying...
RANK NO. 6
Laser Measure Device, MiLESEEY 229ft Digital Laser Tape Measure with Upgrade...
  • ✅[Reliable and Efficiently] Upgraded to accuracy ± 0.3°electronic level with Accuracy: ± 2mm laser tape measure delivers...
  • ✅[UNIQUE FUNCTIONS] The high precision laser head component can be measured quickly and accurately in 0.5s, Auto-Level: Only...
  • ✅[PRACTICAL MULTIPLE Measurements] 70M laser distance measure accuracy: ±0.2mm/±1/16 inch, meet your different needs:...
  • ✅[UNITS SWITCH & 30 DATA RECORDS & Energy-saving Design] freely switch the units in M/ FT/IN/ft+in; 30 data records and recall...
  • ✅[24 MONTHS+ INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATE] 1 x digital measure laser, 2 x 1.5 V AAA, 1 x user manual, 1 x portable bag, 1 x...
SaleRANK NO. 7
MiLESEEY Laser Tape Measure 3-in-1, 130FT Laser Distance Meter, 16FT Digital...
  • DATA SYNC DISPLAY TECHNOLOGY - The DT20 Digital Tape Measure is the world's most productive tape measure delivering fast,...
  • MULTI-USE & PORTABLE - Dedicate to its compact and portable design, DT20 features slim and lightweight. Equipped wrist straps and...
  • DUAL MODE TO MEASURE - The DT20 Digital Tape Measure is an augmented tool that measures directly your target length and outputs...
  • 20 VALUES & RECHARGEABLE - Specially designed, impact-absorbing geometries, along with soft materials, to ensure components of the...
  • ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY & DIGITAL ACCURACY - MiLESEEY owns advanced optical decoding and tape error correction technology, brings an...
RANK NO. 8
Laser Tape Measure 3-in-1 with large LCD Display - Laser measurement tool...
  • MEASURE ANYTHING: Our laser measuring tape measures distances and does calculations, has a 16-ft physical blade (not digital) and...
  • FROM LESS THAN 1in TO 131ft IN ANY UNIT: No job is too big or small for this precise digital tape measure with laser; It can...
  • NO SQUINTING EYES: Digital laser measurement tool with Easy-to-Read large LCD Display, which is backlit and conveniently located...
  • HANDY AND DURABLE: Designed with a comfortable grip, belt clip & wrist strap for easy carry, all enclosed in a heavy-duty plastic...
  • STELLAR SUPPORT: Easy-to-follow user manual videos by scanning the QR-code in the package. Try our laser measuring tape today and...
RANK NO. 9
3-in-1 Digital Laser Tape Measure, ACEGMET 131Ft Laser Measurement Tool & 16Ft...
  • [Seamless Precision in Every Measurement] Experience a revolution in measuring technology with the DP20 Laser Measuring Tape. This...
  • [Adaptive Auto-Calibration] Experience hassle-free measuring with the DP20's smart auto-calibration feature. This advanced...
  • [High Performance Blade] - The Blade of the electronic tape measure can stand out 71 inches(1.8m) in level, Nylon wrap blade makes...
  • [Designed for Multiple Purposes] Laser measure uses a Class 2 laser and can store up to 30 measurements in its memory. digital...
  • [18 Months Worry-free Warranty]If you'll be taking measurements often enough indoors to require precise accuracy, then the laser...
RANK NO. 10
KOISS K4TM Rechargeable Laser Digital Tape Measure, 2-in-1 Digital Measuring...
  • [KOISS Brand] S. Korean brand which developed digital tape measure with incorporation of domestic technology for the first time in...
  • [Material] With a sleek, simple design KOISS K4TM is composed of excellent hardware with the polycarbonate plastic body
  • [High Accuracy Laser Measure] KOISS K4TM is equipped with a Long-range laser distance meter that can measure up to 40m, with an...
  • [Outstanding Tape Measure] KOISS K4TM delivers tape length up to 5m and ±1 (mm) accuracy with 2500 (mm) standout
  • [Convenient] No need to buy new batteries! The KOISS K4TM is rechargeable through the micro 5-pin port
RANK NO. 11
Laser Tape Measure 2-in-1, Laser Measure 196 Ft, Tape Measure 16 Ft Metric and...
  • ACCURACY: long range measuring with extreme accuracy up to 196 feet to within 1/8 inch, combined with a 16 feet tape measure for...
  • VERSATILITY: a 16 ft tape measure with US units and metric units for close up and hands-on measurement, a 196 ft laser measure for...
  • DIGITAL DISPLAY: a clear display with backlighting increases each measurement's readability in any environment.
  • RUGGED BUILD & MAGNETIC HOOK: the device is built to last with a strong internal structure and a nylon coating exterior. The tape...
  • COMPACT: small dimensions easy fit in a pocket, contain one laser tape measure, 2 AAA batteries, and one user manual. Class IIA...

Digital Tape Measure Buying Guide

Before deciding on a tape measure it is necessary to know all the important aspects of the instrument. There are many different models and materials. Therefore, in the next part of the guide we explained some relevant aspects. Read on for all the answers to the most frequently asked questions.

What Is a Tape Measure?

Tape meters, also known only as meters, are measuring instruments. These are tapes of various materials, although the most common are aluminum and fiberglass.

They include lines marked longitudinally where we can observe the units of measurement and its divisions. They are manual.
They are indispensable tools, useful at any time, for different types of activities.

The units of measurement marked on the tape vary from one region to another depending on the type of tape. It is a tool used since ancient times. It is used in almost all professions, from construction to medicine.

How Many Types of Tape Measure Are There?

There is a great variety of tape meters for a very simple reason, not all surfaces are created equal. These instruments must adapt to what we have to measure and, therefore, each measuring tape must have certain characteristics. Below we present a list with the different types of meters that exist:

  • Canvas: this type of tape is the typical tape we all have in the sewing box. It is a tape of some type of tape or plastic material, also called a tailor’s tape because it is particularly useful in tailoring.
  • Metal Band: structurally similar to the tailor’s meter, these meters have a thin stainless steel band with the graduated scale engraved or drawn on it. They are more rigid, therefore more stable than the previous ones, and allow more precise measurements.
  • Metric Roller: also called metric rope, it is a tape measure which must be wound manually with a crank on a spool winder.
  • Measuring Tape: it is the type of tape measure most used nowadays. It has a winder and a flexible metal tape that rewinds automatically.
  • Meter for Surveyor: it is used to measure a field or aground, it has handled to be rewound and can reach lengths up to 100 meters. Today I am a little disused because replaced by laser rangefinders.

Where Is a Tape Measure Formed?

Tape measures are very simple tools. The central part is the same tape. Some, such as those used in medicine or tailoring, is simply a roll of fabric that rolls up. They are the most common and are formed only by the tape and a metal tip that serves as a guide. Obviously, there are more complex ones.

Tapes used in other professions usually have multiple parts. In construction, for example, they usually have a protective cover and a magnetic L-bracket on the outside. Many have rewind cranks and clutch buttons. Below we will explain the parts of a tape measure.

  • Tape: it is a tape (of canvas, fiberglass, plastic, or metal) on which the measurements are marked. Usually, they are flexible tapes. There are different sizes, such as 2, 3, 5, and up to 30 meters.
  • Recoil Pad: all flexometers have a recoil pad at the end. It is an L-shaped bracket made of metal and serves as a stop during the rolling of the tape, as well as facilitating the taking of measurements. Metric wheels, 20 meters or more, are used to having a metal ring instead of the butt plate. In many models the butt plate is magnetic
  • Reel: the models of tape measure used in construction, DIY, and metallurgy usually have a protective casing, called a reel. These models rewind automatically through an internal mechanism. The hose reel is usually airtight, dust, and moisture-proof.
  • Clutch Button: Flexometers usually have a clutch. If pressed, secure the measuring tape in peace and comfort. When the tape is released it rewinds

How Does a Tape Measure Work?

Tape meters are one of the easiest tools to use. You just have to unroll them and measure the surface. After the measurement, you must write down the result and continue with the work.

In the face of this apparent simplicity, it is in measurement where multiple errors are made. For this reason, it is better to be careful and measure twice.

In some works you will find situations, where the distance to be measured, is greater than the length of the tape. This situation can be solved by applying what is called PON (Normal Operating Procedure). This procedure is based on establishing goals or markings at the different points of the measurement.

What Use and Application Does the Tape Measure Have?

Tape meters have many types of applications and use in everyday life. Many times we don’t pay attention to it and tend to forget their usefulness.

For example, in medical check-ups, they are used to measure height, but also coordination and balance. With the tape on the floor, the doctor invites a patient to walk on it.

Its function is to measure any type of surface or object. There are different types of tape measure depending on the characteristics of what we need to measure.

Ribbons are indispensable tools in any profession. They are especially used in carpentry and construction, where exact measurements are needed.

What Materials Are Tape Measure Made Of?

As we have seen, essentially the materials depend on the type of tape. The roll-up tape measures are made of aluminum alloys.

These narrow and flat ribbons are flexible but retain a certain rigidity that allows maintaining the shape and position. There are usually magnetic metalheads that are used to hold the tape in place. The winding structures are usually made of resistant plastic.

Other models of tape measure can be in fabric, but also in vinyl or some type of fiberglass. These tapes do not need to be rigid, unroll, and leave on the ground or used for circumferences.

They usually have metal rings or hooks to fix and measure them comfortably, while the winders, where present, are made of plastic.

Purchase Criteria

When choosing a tape measure, it is imperative that you pay attention to certain aspects of the product. Below we offer you a guide with the most important purchase criteria. Follow our recommendations, as there are many models and brands on the market. If you want to choose a quality tool, follow these criteria:

  • Tape length
  • Ribbon material
  • Size and weight
  • Accessories
  • Use
  • Opinions

Tape Length

The length of the tape varies according to the models. Typical tailor tapes are usually 2 meters long. Those used in construction and topography can measure up to 30 meters.

The length of the tape depends on the model you choose and therefore on the use you will make of it. For domestic use, the best is 3 or 5 meters.

For more professional uses we can find tapes between 15 and 30 meters. If you need to measure a field or land, you will need a tape measure from a land surveyor, which as we have seen are used to measure large lengths up to 100 meters.

Meter Material

As we have seen, measuring tapes have several pieces: the tape, the reminder, and others. The winder is the first thing you will see and it is what keeps the tape inside.

It is important that the casing is durable and if it is dust and moisture-proof, better. We recommend that you choose a solid model that withstands blows or falls, for safety.

The ribbon is another important element. We recommend that you choose a metal model. They are used to being flexible as well as rigid. It is important that they maintain a certain level of rigidity as they will have to remain stable during the measurement.

Choose stainless steel models that withstand the wear and tear of time and continuous use.

Weight and Thickness

We recommend that you choose a lightweight tape measure. It is a tool that you will use many times and you will have to take it often with you. It is important that it does not weigh or is cumbersome.

Self-winding measuring tapes usually weigh about 200 grams and include accessories for hanging them, to ensure they don’t disturb or are heavy.

In addition to the length, also consider the thickness of the tape. We recommend that you choose one as fine as possible, but that it also has sufficient resistance to its own weight when lying down.

Accessories

Some tape meters are simply what their name indicates: a numbered tape. Others, however, have many extras. The more sophisticated have built-in laser meters or metal plates that allow them to be used as a compass for circumferential measurements.

Accessories raise the price, so be careful. Most of the measuring tapes have, as we have seen, a resistant plastic winder.

They usually also include a clutch button, which is very useful. It is also the metal butt plate that allows you to fix the measurement if it is even better magnetic. Finally, you should pay attention to extras like the belt hook, which will help you carry it.

Use

As we have already explained to you in the previous paragraphs, there are different types of tape measures. This is because each surface has its own characteristics.

Before buying a tape measure you have to think about what you will do with it. It is not the same thing to work in home DIY projects rather than to make bespoke clothes.

We advise you to choose the tape measure that best suits you. So keep in mind the different types of materials on each tape. For example, those used to measure large soils are usually made of fiber. They are much longer and have handles for winding and rings to secure them.

Opinions

On the internet, it is risky to buy a product that has few comments and ratings. As a buyer, you will feel much more comfortable with products that have a lot of opinions, especially if they are positive. We advise you to always choose a tape measure that has been well evaluated and commented on by other users.

Evaluations are another important thing. Many buyers don’t bother to comment but offer their ratings. The best products are those that receive good ratings. Also, pay attention to this factor before choosing a tape measure among the many models on the market.

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