Best Tape Measure Reviews 2018

Tape measures are usually available at different prices, depending on the type and length it can measure. However, tapes for taking measurements are not so pricey. Cheap tape measures might not last long or provide the accuracy required to take perfect measurements in your line of work. Due to the importance of doing quality work, only go for the best tapes for measuring your fabrics or other work surfaces depending on your occupation.

You’ll find a good tape measure in the price range of $5 to $50, based on the specific brand, size or length, and quality. Look out for tapes being sold with other accessories needed in your line of work for a good bargain price. Make sure your chosen tape is of premium quality to last.

The best tape measures are easy to use and read because they’re properly calibrated. Opt for a well-calibrated tape with calibration marks you can easily read. The numbers on the tape should also be big enough so you can take your measurements without having to look for your glasses. Depending on your line of work and the things you need to measure, go for the appropriate length. Buy long tape measures to be on the safe side.

Here are some important features to consider when shopping for a tape measure:

• The right tape length and high accuracy
• Clear readings and measurement types
• The right locking mechanism and casing material
• Proper blade diameter
• Hook or string to keep the tape in place when in use
• The length the blade can extend without bending

With the right tape measure, you won’t just be able to take measurements whenever you need to, but also ensure your readings are accurate.

If you’re shopping for the right tape measure to use in your craft, the following factors should help you pick the right one for you:

Size – The size of the tape measure is important because it determines the maximum distance you can measure. The usual 25-inch and 50-inch tape measures will suffice for most home use and for many woodworkers and tailors. These tape measures are usually small and easy to carry even in the pocket. There are, however, some projects, such as land projects, that will require tape measures that are huge, usually measuring up to 100 feet.

These tape measures will be a bit big to fit in a pocket, but they are usually made in a reel that’s easy to carry and makes retracting the measuring tape easy. The size you choose is determined by the projects you’ll often be undertaking.

System – There are different systems available for measuring length. These systems differ from one country to another. Therefore, tape measures usually come marked for different measuring systems. There are those that can take measurements in inches, and others in meters and centimeters.

Many incorporate different systems in one tape by having both sides of the tape measure calibrated. You need to buy a tape measure that comes with the calibration system you’re used to so you don’t have to keep on converting the measurements you take.

Weight – The weight of a tape measure is also important, because you’ll use it by hand in situations where you’ll have to lift or hold it for long periods. Since it’s lightweight, you can work and move around with it in your pocket without getting fatigued. Fortunately, the materials used in the construction of tape measures make it very lightweight and ideal. Tape measures are usually made of plastic, metal or fiberglass, which are all light.

Color – The color of the tape is also important. Since it might be a small item in a big tool box or shed, it needs to be brightly colored or have some brightly colored parts for easy identification. Also, the color of the measuring blade should be bright but marked with dark colors so the contrast makes it easy to read the markings on the tape. You can also just choose any color based on your preference.

Construction – The construction of the tape measure is another important consideration. It determines how well the tape holds up to rugged use. Tape measures may fall easily and are usually dropped and thrown around the workshop when being used by many people. The best tape measures come in casings that are made of metal or heavy-duty plastic to withstand rugged use. Some tape measures are also retractable, while others have a button that allows you to hold the blade out for as long as you need it.

A tape measure is really easy to use, because all you have to do is extend the blade, the flexible measuring cloth, or plastic to take measurements. Opt for a blade that’s calibrated and marked using the units you prefer. After measurement is done, the blade is released to retract into the casing, or for the flexible type, it’s reeled back in.

Tape measures don’t require any kind of maintenance. To ensure that the measurements taken are standard and accurate, they’re made of materials that can’t expand due to heat or contract. They’re also made in standardized lengths to ensure accuracy.