How do you measure performance? We do it by researching the most trusted tool review websites on the net and comparing ratings by both professionals and DIY-ers alike. When you’re looking for a new tape measure, these 11 options go the extra mile by helping your precisely calculate feet and inches.
The tape measure was invent back in 1868 by Alvin J. Fellows, a man who needed to offload excess spools of wide fashion wire when the hoop skirt’s popularity fell flat. His invention went on to affect not only the way clothing was made, but how people across the globe achieved high accuracy in everything from building decks to laying city foundations. Today, the tape measure is a standard part of any home or work tool box and few venture into any project without one.
Check out these top products:
1. Stanley 25′ Powerlock
Price: 9.88
Stanley’s 25’ Powerlock® is a solid tool for most home and work applications. Sheathed in a high-impact Chrome ABS case and coated with Mylar, this 25-foot measuring tool is corrosion resistant and about as functional as it gets. Stanley’s True-ZeroTM end hook allows for exact measurements and its 16-inch and 19.2-inch stud marks will help you find deadcenter each and every time you use this 1-inch-wide wonder. Coming in at #1 for price and functionality, the Stanley is a classic that stands the test of time. Stanley tools are built American tough and have been building America since 1843.
Top Product Features
- 25-foot length
- Chrome case resists shock
- True-Zero end hook
- Mylar coated for extended life
Product Reviews
- "A great balance of price and sturdiness, the Stanley Powerlock is available in lengths from 12 to 36 feet and comes in a high-impact chrome ABS plastic housing. True to its name, it promises a secure lock that won't slide over time like many models." – Wiki.EZVid.com
- "The Stanley Powerlock is our favorite 25-foot tape measure by a mile, not an inch. With a lifetime warranty, a strong belt clip, and a blade that stood straight for just over seven feet—longer than Stanley advertises—it’s perfect for the home or the job site." – Reviewed.com
- "Standard features include a lockable blade for precise measurements and minimal slippage, a belt hook for easy access, a 1-inch wide blade for easy reading, and 16-inch and 19.2-inch stud center markings. Plus, Stanley has added a heat-treated spring to increase the tape’s lifespan." -- ThoroughlyReviewed.com
- "Stanley tape measures are something of a benchmark. They have been around for generations and, arguably, are the original retractable tape measure brand. Hiram Farrand patented the modern spring-operated retractable tape measure in the 1920s, but the product rights were sold to Stanley Works." -- BusinessInsider.com
- "A reliable tool from a popular manufacturer at a price that competitors can't beat. If you're watching your budget, this is the one to buy. A sturdy tape measure by a trusted brand. Well-made, impact-resistant chrome base and secure locking function. Limited lifetime warranty." – BestReviews.com
- "This unit is the “tried and true” design of tape measures that can only be called “classic”. The blades on the tape are covered in a Mylar coating so that retracting the tape is smooth and prevents excessive wear over time." – TheDearLab.com
- "The body of the tape measure is made of durable material. A high impact ABS case enclose the body of this product which also has an added rubber mold for more strength. A heat-treated spring is responsible for its easy recoil when not in use." -- BestAlyze.com
2. Stanley 25′ FatMax
Price: 16.35
The Stanley FatMax is the tape measure other tools measure themselves by. Its 25-foot-long, 1 ¼-inch-wide, Mylar® film-coated blade holds its own weight for 11 feet of extension. When you need a tool that can stand up to even the most rugged circumstances, the FatMax should be your top choice. More expensive than its little brother at the top of the list, the FatMax has all the features needed by men and women whose work demands professional-grade performance. A non-slip rubber-coated ABS case keeps this dual-tang tape safe and sound no matter the worksite. Stanley’s classic yellow and black indicate quality throughout this tape measure’s useful life.
Top Product Features
- 11-foot standout
- Stud markings at 16 feet and 19.2 feet
- Blade Armor® coating first three inches
- Multi-catch grab hooks
Product Reviews
- "The “fat” in this tape measure’s name refers to the width of its blade. In theory, a wide blade is good: It can extend longer (Stanley claims 11 feet, we measured just under that) and it’s easier to read." -- Reviewed.com
- "The first six feet of the 25-foot Stanley FatMax tape is reinforced with Blade Armor coating for protection against friction which causes wear and tear. Additionally, a film of Mylar polyester is spread over the blade to preserve the markings as well as to extend the life of the blade." – WoodWorkingToolKit.com
- "This 25-foot tape measure has the strength and durability that you want in such an important tool. Although tape measures often get overlooked when stocking the tool box, it is a tool that you will sorely miss when you need to measuring something." -- ThoroughlyReviewed.com
- "The FatMax has several design features that make it perfect for work on a rugged jobsite. The heavy duty spring attached to the blade dispensing mechanism means you won’t be sitting with 10 feet of extended tape that won’t retract. The case itself is a durable ABS plastic." – TheDearLab.com
- "The extra-wide and deeply concave tape displayed the structural integrity of an I-beam. It crushed the competition in this category. After falls of 5, 10, 15, 20, and 25 feet, the FatMax showed only scuff marks. We actually heard it laughing at us." – PopularMechanics.com
3. Trust 25′ Tape Measure
Price: 11.95
If there’s a tool you can trust, this is it. The Trust 72-7525 25-foot tape measure is unique among others in its class. Featuring a magnetic end and automatic lock, this 1-inch wide, nylon bonded tape was made for people who routinely work alone. The MID II, waterproof blade is marked with both the standard and metric scale with alternating colors for easy reading. Guaranteed for life and backed by Trust’s world-class customer service, this waterproof tape measure is housed in an impact-resistant shell that can handle whatever the worksite throws at it.
Top Product Features
- Thick blade for superior standout
- Waterproof
- Belt clip
- Ergonomic ABS case
Product Reviews
- "This Trust Measuring tape is built to guarantee durability. Its outer case is impact resistant while its L-shaped hook is triple-riveted for added strength. This product comes with a lifetime guarantee so when you purchase it, expect a high quality, long lasting tool that will best serve you for years." – WoodworkingToolKit.com
- "The marks on the tape measure are easy to read. There are stud markers every 16” which makes this tape measure perfect for professional builders or hobby carpenters. The impact resistant case is .14mm thick and made to last. The blade is made from bonded steel that will stand up to heavy use." – ThoroughlyReviewed.com
- "Rugged yet lightweight tape that's easy to use and less likely to cause cuts than heavier tapes. Has magnetic hook and accurate imperial, metric and fractional markings that are easy to read. Lifetime warranty also comes standard with this tape." – BestReviews.com
- "This tape measure makes it so much easier to work on your own especially if you are an independent contractor who needs to make quick measurements. The magnetic end will stick to any metal surfaces like pipes, metal beams and ducts." – TheDearLab.com
4. eTape 16′ 16BT
Price: 49.95
Up until now, the tape measure hadn’t seen many improvements. Enter the eTape 16-foot digital tape measure. With a large digital display, this surprisingly accurate instant-read device eliminates mid-measurement stoppage to record numbers. A simple touch of a button instantly saves your measurements or, when paired with the optional Bluetooth enabled app, sends your depths, dimension, and widths straight to a custom spreadsheet. You’ll never have to try to read tiny markings again and risk inaccuracy with this tool by your side. eTape was designed by MIT alumni and Naval Architect Stephen Crane as a better way to measure and convert no matter which scale you choose to use.
Top Product Features
- 16-foot blade
- Digital readout; prints or emails measurements
- First digital tape measure
- Tough and rugged housing
Product Reviews
- "The eTape 16BT is the original digital model that now comes with Bluetooth technology and the handy eSmart mobile app for Android and iOS devices. It automatically sends measurements to your smartphone and keeps track of them in a convenient spreadsheet." – Wiki.EzVid.com
- "The eTape16 digital tape measure revolutionizes not only the tape measure but also expands its utility as never before envisioned. The large digital display provides easy reading while the features are readily accessible. 3 memories, us or metric, centerline calc. re-zero and inside/outside all available." – ThoroughlyReviewed.com
- "You know that frustration when you're staring down, your eyes mere inches away from its intricately-detailed graduation markings, trying to decide if you should call that measurement five-sixteenths of an inch ... or six? Well, with the eTape16 Digital Measuring Tape, those days are a thing of the past." -- BusinessInsider.com
- "This is the original digital tape measure which prides itself in measuring made easy the digital way. It’s specially designed to withstand any weather thanks to its durable materials made of a unique plastic, polycarbonate plastic. It has a large digital screen where it displays the measurement." – BestAlyze.com
5. QuickDraw 25′ Pro Self-Marking Measure
Price: 19.89
Gone are the days when you have to constantly fumble for a pencil to mark your cuts. The QuickDraw Pro 25’ self-marking tape measure has changed the game. With more than 2,000 marks per load, the exclusive graphite marker makes this two tools in one. Featuring an extra-heavy belt clip, rubber break lock, and ABS injection-molded case, the QuickDraw QD25 PRO is a professional addition to your DIY or work toolbox. A truly innovative tape measure that boasts an impressive 9-foot standout and patent-pending TruView WEDGE indicator. QuickDraw products have been featured in Forbes, Time, and Popular Mechanics.
Top Product Features
- One-handed operation; marks and measures
- Upgraded internal spooling system
- ABS case
- 25-foot length
Product Reviews
- "The first thing we noticed is the rugged, molded case that has industrial-strength star-drive screws holding it together securely. The blade of the tape measure can be extended 9 to 12 feet, freehanded and with no issues." – Wiki.EZVids.com
- "Unique built-in marking feature is ideal for users who need to draw straight lines while measuring. Useful for projects such as measuring drywall and marking lines. An innovative concept that perfectly suits some intricate marking tasks." -- BusinessInsider.com
- "The QuickDraw Pro comes with a “wedge indicator” which acts like a gun sight. This pinpoints the exact location of your line so you will never be off the mark. The tape is coated in a durable material that covers the steel so when you extend it, there is no bending or collapsing." – BestAlyze.com
6. QuickDraw 25’ DIY Self-Marking Tape Measure
Price: 13.99
The QuickDraw DIY measuring tape with built-in graphite wheels makes marking your spot a breeze, even with one handed operation. With a reach of 25 feet and a 9-foot standout, this rugged, hard working tape measure is ideal for jobs big and small, both professional and for the serious DIY-er. A strong recoil means this measure snaps back into place with a simple slide of the thumb. Patent-pending TruView technology works like a gun sight to give you pinpoint accuracy when it matters most. QuickDraw has upgraded this revolutionary tool with a nylon-coated blade for years of lasting functionality.
Top Product Features
- Built-in graphite marker
- 9-foot standout
- Innovative design
- 10-second reload
Product Reviews
- "The QuickDraw DIY is a rugged 25-foot option that features a built-in graphite wheel for marking surfaces as you work. Its integrated, easy to reload design and precise accuracy mean you can feel comfortable leaving the contractor pencils at home." – Wiki.EZVids.com
- "The QuickDraw DIY Self Marking Measuring Tape helps prevent human error in carpentry, construction, and craft projects with its built-in graphite marking wheel. It also has a bright red marking band and a Tru-View sight that lets you see exactly where the measurement you need lines up with the surface." – BusinessInsider.com
- "The most popular tape measure we’ve found is the QUICKDRAW DIY Self Marking 25′ Foot Tape. This tape measure is 25 foot long and even has a built-in pencil. You don’t need to fumble for a pencil whenever you’re measuring any material." – BestAlyze.com
7. Komelon 25′ Self Lock
Price: 9.99
The Komelon 25’ tape measure with self-locking mechanism works the way tape measures should have always worked, without being told when to stop. A unique design allows this 25-foot blade to stop when needed but retract at your pace, when you’re ready. Housed in an impact-resistant shell, this nylon coated tape measure is protected from hard job sites but is always ready for use. Komelon’s eye-catching green and black design will help you keep sight of this affordable yet invaluable addition to your tool chest. Built with contractors and framers in mind, this may be the last tape measure you’ll ever buy.
Top Product Features
- Nylon coated blade
- ABS case
- Unique self-locking mechanism
- Controlled retraction
Product Reviews
- "As its name suggests, the Komelon SL2825 Self Lock automatically holds its nylon-coated blade in place at whatever distance it's pulled from its impact-resistant rubberized housing. A press of its retract button sends its length shooting smoothly back into storage." – Wiki.EZVids.com
- "You may not have ever heard of Komelon, but the Korean company sells a ton of its SL-2825 tape measures on Amazon. The cheapest tape measure we tested, the Komelon had a great belt clip and a standout of just under 7 feet. The auto-lock feature made one handed operation a breeze." – Reviewed.com
- "A Basic model with a strong case. Soft rubber coating resists slipping and shock. Measurements are clear and easy to read. Comes with a one year warranty." – BestReviews.com
8. Komelon 30” Professional Tape Measure
Price: 6.76
Sometimes bigger really is better. And that’s just the case with this 30-foot, professional series tape measure by Komelon. Its easy-to-read yellow blade is printed in both metric and imperial units for your convenience. An ergonomic and impact-resistant case makes this tape measure easy to hold, use, and repeat no matter how many times you pull it out. Its powerful slide lock keeps the nylon coated blade in place until you’re done so you never have to worry about mismeasurements due to a weak hold. Built with professionals in mind, this no-frills, no fuss, and no muss tape measure does what it should, when it should.
Top Product Features
- 30-foot blade for large-scale projects
- Duel metrics
- Smooth operating internal recoil
- Nylon-coated for lasting performance
Product Reviews
- "The blade of this professional measuring tape is nylon coated to protect it from disintegrating due to friction. The powerful slide lock enhances the convenience of this tool. It stops and locks the blade to prevent it from retracting when measuring." – WoodWorkingToolKit.com
- "The Professional inch/Metric series offers an ergonomically designed case and superior internal mechanisms ensuring smooth operating. This is the ideal tape measure for anyone using a metric measuring scale." – ThoroughlyReviewed.com
9. Magnelex 26′ SolidRule Tape Measure
Price: 12.9
If you’re prone to dropping your equipment, this tape measure can take the abuse. Built with a hard day’s work in mind, the 26-foot Magnelex SolidRule measuring tape is backed by a lifetime warranty and 100% money back guarantee. Smooth operating, this pro-series tape is nylon coated to protect against cracks and splits. Meets MID standards. The Magnelex tape measure is housed in a durable, ergonomic case that’s easy to grip, even when wet. Metric on one side, inch scale on the other, this tape measure provides precision. Magnelex is a global brand of tools for home, professional contractor, and automotive use.
Top Product Features
- Non-slip case
- Powerful stop button keeps tape in place
- Smooth extension and retraction
- Risk free, 100% money back guarantee
Product Reviews
- "This superb Magnelex SolidRule tape measures both inches and metric. Has an ergonomic design making it easy to hold. Smooth and reliable action with a well designed inner mechanism. Blade is nylon coated on both sides, has a strong stop button and locking lever as well." – ThoroughlyReviewed.com
- "The Magnelex doesn’t come with a lot of bells and whistles but it does the job for a very affordable price. The Magnelex is “Impact Resistant” which means that if dropped from your ladder, you won’t end up having to replace your tape measure mid-job." – TheDearLab.com
10. Kutir 25′ 56-7525 Tape Measure
Price: 14.9
A powerful end magnet makes the Kutir 25-foot tape measure a tool that comes in handy when working alone. At 25 feet in length with an 8-foot standout, this tape stands out in a crowd. Whether you’re measuring to hang photos or the foundation of you’re a driveway, this tape measure has you covered; indoor and outdoor uses are unlimited. A shock-proof case keeps this MID-certified, stainless steel tape measure safe even if dropped from the top of a ladder. Made by Kutir, a family company with a singular goal: design, build, and deliver the best tools for daily use by their global network of customers.
Top Product Features
- Powerful magnetic end
- 25-foot blade; 8-foot standout
- MID certified
- Lab-tested ABS case
Product Reviews
- "The Kutir 25 Foot has a sturdy locking switch for easy retraction control and a longer blade life. It features precise markings in both imperial and metric units, with distinct indicators at every foot, 16 inches, and 10 centimeters." – Wiki.EZVids.com
- "It has some nice features... Durable construction and shock resistant case. Measurements are accurate and the magnetic hook is strong and useful. Tape retraction mechanism operates smoothly." – BestReviews.com
