Best Overall
Irwin Strait-Line Tape Measure
LOWE'S
- Performance5/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Durability5/5
- Value5/5
- Accuracy5/5
- This tape measure features identical markings on the back side of the blade, making it effortless to read in any position.
This tape measure features identical markings on the back side of the blade, making it effortless to read in any position.
- It’s a bit bulky, so it might be a tight fit for a tool belt pouch.
It’s a bit bulky, so it might be a tight fit for a tool belt pouch.
The Irwin Strait-Line tape measure is our top pick for the best tape measure. It earned a perfect score during testing across all categories, including performance, durability, accuracy, and value.
The bright yellow blade features large numbers and double-sided markings. The tape measure has stud markings that are conveniently placed every 16 inches. This 16-foot tape measure is also available in a 25-foot option for longer measurements.
Our testers found that the case was comfortable to grip, and the lock could be engaged or released with just their thumbs. They also noted that they could control the speed of the blade as it fed out and retracted, which prevented the blade from whipping around wildly.
During testing, it had an impressive standout of more than 13 feet, meaning it extended 13 feet from the case before drooping or bending. After dropping it on concrete in our testing lab, our testers found it didn’t have any visible damage. The brand also claims the tape measure can survive up to an 80-foot drop.
The only drawback to this tape measure is that it was a bit too bulky to fit in a tool belt. However, our testers could easily use the belt clip to attach it to their belts instead.
Product Details:
Length: 16 feet | Markings: Imperial | Standout: 13 feet and 3 inches | Autolock: No
- BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
Best Budget
Komelon Self-Lock Evolution L4825HV
LOWE'S
- Performance3/5
- Ease of Use3/5
- Durability5/5
- Value4/5
- Accuracy5/5
- The back of the tape blade includes an information scale for simple conversions from inches to decimals.
The back of the tape blade includes an information scale for simple conversions from inches to decimals.
- The tape blade is a little flimsy, making for a lower standout measurement.
The tape blade is a little flimsy, making for a lower standout measurement.
For the best budget tape measure, this tool from Komelon is an affordable buy if you only need a tape measure occasionally. During testing, this tape measure earned perfect scores for its durability and accuracy.
The tape measure features a nylon-coated blade with a bright color for high visibility. It also features double-sided printing on the blade with nail sizes and decimal equivalents for quick conversions. Coupled with a dual-ended hook, the double-sided blade is versatile for all kinds of measuring and conversions.
Our testers noted that the recoil was smooth and quick, and the auto-lock feature made one-handed measurements effortless. Testers found both inside and outside measurements to be precisely accurate with this tape measure.
The tape measure held up impressively after our drop test—it had no scratches or damage after being dropped three times from a 12-foot ladder. However, testers said the body of the tape measure was somewhat long, making it more difficult to fit into a tool belt.
Although testers felt the tape blade was somewhat flimsy, this tape measure surpassed its advertised standout length by 7 inches during testing. Because of its durability, accuracy, and affordability, this is the best choice for those looking for an inexpensive option.
Product Details:
Length: 25 feet | Markings: Imperial | Standout: 7 feet 7 inches | Autolock: Yes
- BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
Best Splurge
Stanley FatMax Tape Measure
COURTESY BY ACME TOOLS
- Performance4/5
- Ease of Use4/5
- Durability5/5
- Value4/5
- Accuracy4/5
- Its durability and smooth recoil are ideal for professional or everyday use.
Its durability and smooth recoil are ideal for professional or everyday use.
- If you stop it during a recoil, it may have difficulty returning to its case without the assistance.
If you stop it during a recoil, it may have difficulty returning to its case without the assistance.
The Stanley FatMax is a quality investment, especially for professionals who need a tape measure that stands up to the rigor of everyday use. The fully coated blade adds to the durability and extends the life of the tape measure. After our drop test, the tape measure worked perfectly, suffering only minor dings and scratches to the case.
Our tester found both inside and outside measurements to be precise, and the tape is very easy to read. Its bright yellow blade contrasts against black markings and large font, so testers didn’t have to struggle to see their measurements.
The tape recoil was smooth and steady, retracting in a controlled straight line rather than wildly flopping around like many other tapes. However, it had difficulty recoiling when the tester stopped it during a long or full-length recoil.
With more than 10 feet of standout, testers were able to take many measurements on their own without waiting for someone to hold the tape. However, it fell short of its 13-foot standout claim, only reaching an average of 10 feet and 6 inches before it bent during testing.
The body of the tape measure is comfortable to grip and handle, and the wide case might be preferable for users with large hands. It clips easily onto a tool belt or pocket with only one hand. And if you don’t like the belt clip, it removes easily without the need to unscrew it.
Product Details:
Length: 16 feet | Markings: Imperial | Standout: 10 feet 6 inches | Autolock: No
- BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
Best Small
Milwaukee Compact Tape Measure
THE HOME DEPOT
- Performance4.5/5
- Ease of Use4/5
- Durability4/5
- Value4.5/5
- Accuracy5/5
- The rubber-coated body and small size make it comfortable and convenient for quick measurements.
The rubber-coated body and small size make it comfortable and convenient for quick measurements.
- The belt clip is overly stiff and difficult to use one-handed.
The belt clip is overly stiff and difficult to use one-handed.
For those looking for a compact measuring tape, this Milwaukee tool is the best option. The rubber-coated body makes it comfortable to hold and grip, and the blade lock can be easily operated with one hand.
The 16-foot tape measure has clear blade markings every eighth of an inch, so it is accurate without being too cluttered. The tape blade even features a fractional scale to make reading and converting your measurements even simpler. Our tester found all measurements to be accurate, even when adding the length of the tape’s body to an inside measurement.
This tape measure doesn’t compromise on durability despite its small size. Although our drop test caused minor cosmetic damage, the tape measure’s performance was unaffected due to its reinforced frame. Wear-resistant nylon also protects the blade and offers greater durability and longevity. The blade also retracted carefully without an aggressive recoil. It had a standout of 8 feet and 10 inches, which is 10 inches more than advertised.
Our testers did find that the belt clip required a little effort to use and was stiff to slide over a belt one-handed. However, we recommend the Milwaukee Compact because of its modest price, portability, and comfort.
Product Details:
Length: 16 feet | Markings: Imperial | Standout: 8 feet 10 inches | Autolock: No
- BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / HENRY WORTOCK
BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / HENRY WORTOCK
Best Magnetic
Milwaukee Compact Magnetic 48-22-0316
HOME DEPOT
- Performance3.5/5
- Ease of Use3.5/5
- Durability4/5
- Value4/5
- Accuracy5/5
- It features a magnetic tip that holds the tape measure in place while you measure.
It features a magnetic tip that holds the tape measure in place while you measure.
- The belt clip is very difficult to operate.
The belt clip is very difficult to operate.
The Milwaukee Compact Magnetic tape measure is the best if you prefer a magnetic option. Its compact body and rubber over a mold made it comfortable for our testers to grip during testing, and the tape measure features an anti-tear coating that protects the first 6 inches of the blade from damage.
The fraction increments of this tape measure are easily distinguishable on its yellow tape blade. The tape measure also has markings on the bottom of the blade so the measurements can be read from any angle.
Testers said the magnetic tip held firmly to a steel stud for nearly 14 feet, making it easy to measure across long distances. However, its standout measurement was only 9 feet and 3 inches during testing, falling short of the 12-foot standout it claims.
The lock could be operated with only one hand, but testers thought the wire belt clip was extremely difficult to use. The bottom of the tape measure features an opening behind the blade hook that allowed our testers to control the recoil speed with their finger. However, the thin and narrow width of the blade caused it to still whip around as it recoiled.
This tape measure was relatively durable, suffering only minor scuffs on the body after being dropped three times. With the magnetic tip and compact size, this tape measure is an affordable option for any DIY project.
Product Details:
Length: 16 feet | Markings: Imperial | Standout: 9 feet 3 inches | Autolock: No
- BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
Best Heavy Duty
DeWalt Tough Series Tape Measure
HOME DEPOT
- Performance5/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Durability4.5/5
- Value4.5/5
- Accuracy4.5/5
- Its rugged design can hold up to consistent use.
Its rugged design can hold up to consistent use.
- The large size may be cumbersome for people with smaller hands.
The large size may be cumbersome for people with smaller hands.
This sturdy 16-foot model from DeWalt is the best option for people who are tough on their tools. It features a blade coating on the first 6 inches of the tape that protects it from ripping or tearing, and the tape blade is thick and resistant to bending or breaking.
The body is covered with a rubber material that makes it comfortable to hold and cushions the tape from damage. This tape measure was unphased by our drop test, with testers describing it as “rugged and well-made.”
The increment markings are large, bold, and easy to read against the high-visibility yellow tape. A double-sided print with identical markings on the top and bottom of the blade makes for clear overhead measurements.
Our testers noted that the belt clip slips on a pocket or belt smoothly, and the lock can be used with just one hand. It had a strong recoil without whipping around aggressively. This tape measure also has a removable hook magnet that is useful for working with metal.
While it claims to have a standout of 16 feet (the full length of the blade), testing showed a much lower standout measurement of 12 feet and 2 inches. Despite a slightly higher price tag, this DeWalt tape measure is durable and well-made, making it the best heavy-duty measuring tape.
Product Details:
Length: 16 feet | Markings: Imperial | Standout: 12 feet 2 inches | Autolock: No
- BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / DERA BURRESON
Best Double-Sided
Crescent Lufkin Shockforce Dual-Sided Tape Measure
WALMART
- Performance4/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Durability5/5
- Value5/5
- Accuracy5/5
- It has an impressive standout that makes it perfect for solo measuring.
It has an impressive standout that makes it perfect for solo measuring.
- It can get caught on the retraction when it is fully extended.
It can get caught on the retraction when it is fully extended.
The Crescent Lufkin Shockforce stood out among the best tape measures for its easy-to-read double-sided tape. The back of the tape features vertical markings to accommodate difficult overhead measurements. Our testers found they could read the tape from any angle, and it locked easily in place with a 360-degree end hook.
This tape measure also had the highest standout during testing. Testers found it had an impressive standout of 13 feet and 5 inches.
Testers said they could lock and unlock the tape with only one hand, and the clip attached to a belt or pocket with minimal effort. However, the body of the tape measure is on the large side and may be too bulky to fit in the pocket of a tool belt.
The nylon-coated blade extends the durability of the tape measure and reduces glare. During testing, the blade had a smooth recoil that was effortless to control. However, when it was fully extended, it stopped in the middle and needed to be restarted to finish retracting.
After our drop test, the tape measure had no visible damage, and the tape functioned the same after each drop.
Product Details:
Length: 25 feet | Markings: Imperial | Standout: 13 feet 5 inches | Autolock: No
- BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / HENRY WORTOCK
BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / HENRY WORTOCK
Best Auto-Locking
Milwaukee Compact Auto-Lock Tape Measure
THE HOME DEPOT
- Performance4/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Durability5/5
- Value5/5
- Accuracy4.5/5
- The auto-lock feature makes one-handed measurements quick and painless.
The auto-lock feature makes one-handed measurements quick and painless.
- The tape is a bit flimsy, so it’s not the best for long-distance measurements.
The tape is a bit flimsy, so it’s not the best for long-distance measurements.
Many tape measures feature an auto-lock that makes one-handed measuring much easier. The auto-lock feature on the Milwaukee Compact Autolock tape measure conveniently locks the blade into place for quick measuring. The tape measure also features a wear-resistant nylon blade coating and a reinforced frame.
The 16-foot tape measure had an average standout of 9 feet and 7 seven inches during testing, surpassing the advertised 9 feet of standout. However, testers felt that the tape was a bit flimsy, making it difficult for measuring at a distance.
The first foot of the tape is marked with a fractional scale so testers could easily see their exact measurements. However, they noted the body was a slightly awkward length that made for tricky math for inside measurements.
Testers said the belt clip was somewhat stiff but still workable. The recoil was smooth and easy to control using the retraction button.
The over-molding is minimal on this model, but it still protected the tape measure from damage after we dropped it on concrete. After three drops, it suffered minor scuffs to the body and over-molding, but its performance was unaffected.
Product Details:
Length: 16 feet | Markings: Imperial | Standout: 9 feet 7 inches | Autolock: Yes
BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / HENRY WORTOCK
Easiest to Use
Stanley FatMax Classic Tape Measure
COURTESY BY AMAZON
- Performance4/5
- Ease of Use5/5
- Durability5/5
- Value5/5
- Accuracy5/5
- Large font numbers and distinct blade markings make it simple to read.
Large font numbers and distinct blade markings make it simple to read.
- The recoil is slower than average and might get stuck at long lengths.
The recoil is slower than average and might get stuck at long lengths.
This Stanley Fatmax tape measure features large font numbers and blade markings that are easy to read against its yellow tape. Our testers felt it was uncomplicated to distinguish between each increment so measurements are more accurate.
Testers said the tape measure was comfortable to grip and handle, and the lock could be easily engaged or released just using their thumb. It clipped easily onto a belt one-handed; however, its larger size made it a tight fit for a tool belt pocket or pouch.
The body is 3 ⅛ inches long, which is not ideal for measuring inside distances with the body into a corner. With a heat-treated spring, this tape measure had a reliable (although slow) recoil. It can also struggle to recoil fully when it is stopped during a long or full-length recoil.
The durable rubber case and tape blade coating protect the tape measure from wear and tear. It held up well to our drop test, showing no visible signs of damage from the concrete. Overall, this tape measure is a good value for its accuracy and ease of use.
Product Details:
Length: 25 feet | Markings: Imperial | Standout: 9 feet 11 inches | Autolock: No
BETTER HOMES and GARDENS / HENRY WORTOCK