Measuring tape, types, characteristics and choice

Expert: Konstantin Borisovich Polyakov

*Review of the best according to the editors of expertology.ru. About the selection criteria. This material is subjective in nature, does not constitute advertising and does not serve as a purchase guide. Before purchasing, consultation with a specialist is required.

The most popular measuring tool among a wide range of craftsmen is the tape measure. This convenient and compact product is used in the construction of new buildings, during reconstruction and repair, in the process of geodetic work, etc. The tape measure is a compact device consisting of a body and a flexible tape with a measuring scale. Thanks to a special hook, even one worker can take measurements. The domestic market offers a wide range of domestic and foreign products. When choosing a suitable model, experts recommend starting from the following parameters.

How to choose a measuring tape

1. Length
   . First of all, the user should decide on the maximum length of the tape measure. For example, compact 2-3-meter products are enough for window measurers or locksmiths. But on large construction sites it is necessary to use 30-meter models.
2. A convenient option would be a magnetic hook
   . With its help, the starting point of the tape is securely fixed to steel surfaces, making it easier to take measurements alone.
3. Material
   . Most often, the tape is made of steel, onto which a scale and a protective coating are applied. When the markings are bright and large, you can work even in poor lighting conditions.
4. The reliability and durability
   of the tape measure largely depends on the quality of the case. The tool, which has rubber lining, is not afraid of falls. They absorb impact energy while maintaining the integrity of the plastic case.
5. Functionality
   . To effectively control the tape, the tape measures have locking buttons and levers. When purchasing, you should check how securely the stopper holds the tape and whether rewinding begins immediately after turning off the braking system.
6. Weight and dimensions.
   When using a measuring tool frequently, compactness and lightness become important parameters. For ease of wearing, manufacturers equip their products with wrist straps and clips for fixing them on a belt.

Our review includes the 12 best measuring tapes. When compiling the rating, the opinion of the expert community and reviews of domestic consumers were taken into account.

Criterias of choice

Focusing on the following criteria, which determine the quality and functionality of the measuring tape, will help you make the right choice.

Manufacturer

The lifespan of a measuring tape is directly influenced by the materials used in production. Products manufactured by well-known brands are the most popular due to their high-quality assembly and impact-resistant properties of the case. The products of the following companies are trustworthy:

• Armero;
• Sparta;
• Kraftool;
• Gross;
• STAYER;
• ADA;
• Cedar;
• Vortex;
• FIT.

What are there

Measuring tape STANLEY PowerWinder Fiberglass 2-34-772 13 mm x 30 m
Measuring products come in two types:

• roulette - a tape in a housing with a spring mechanism that self-twists it;
• measuring tape - a thin steel tape or wire on which a measuring scale is applied.

By purpose

1. Household - the usual version, made in a rubberized plastic case with a latch and a spring mechanism, used in construction and everyday life;
2. Forest – designed for measurements over long distances, material – metal, self-retracting tape;
3. Geodetic - characterized by a fiberglass tape wound into a reel with an open/closed body; a metal ring is used as a hook.

Tape length, m

This parameter determines the length of the tape that is removed from the tape measure body. When unwinding all the way, you may find that the scale is slightly higher than the value indicated on the product. The following measuring devices are available on the market:

• up to 2 m;
• up to 3 m;
• up to 5 m;
• up to 10 m;
• up to 20 m;
• up to 30 m.

Among the types of roulettes there are products with a tape length of up to 100 m.

The longer the tape, the more convenient it is to take measurements over large areas.

Tape width, mm

The parameter is measured in mm. Common width options: 16; 19; 25; 32 mm. According to the nomenclature, there are tapes up to 46.5 mm wide.

Weight, g

The ease of use of a tape measure is determined, among other things, by the weight of the product. However, not all lightweight structures are durable. Therefore, this criterion is considered in combination with other characteristics. The weight range of measuring products is from 26 to 970 g. The parameters of household options are from 150 to 250 g.

Additional options

The functionality and service life of the tape measure depends on the additional options that manufacturers equip their products with. Eg:

• rubberized body – the presence of a rubber gasket cushions the product, preventing damage to the plastic as a result of impact or mechanical impact;
• double-sided scale - you can take measurements based on either side of the tape;
• clamp - allows you to lock the tape in the place where the control measure is located.

Rating of the best measuring tapes

The best keychain tape measure

A small measuring instrument can always be with the owner if it is made in the form of a keychain tape measure. Its main advantages are lightness, compactness and mobility. Experts liked one interesting model.

FIT 17825

Rating: 4.7

A very convenient measuring tool that can always be at hand is the FIT 17825 keychain tape measure. You can attach a bunch of keys to it thanks to the presence of a metal ring. A 2-meter steel strip with a width of 8 mm is hidden inside the case. The tape measure will be an indispensable assistant for people whose activities are related to construction or repair. Despite its small size, the instrument is not a toy. The case has a rubberized insert, the product is equipped with a locking lever. The model deservedly takes first place in our rating.

Many users call the keychain tape measure an indispensable measuring tool that always follows its owner. Among the shortcomings, only a millimeter error in the readings is noted.

Advantages

• compact and light (80 g);
• steel tape;
• low price;
• rubberized body.

Flaws

• measurement error is 1 mm.

Roulette hook design

The roulette hook also has a complex design. All the details on it did not appear by chance. The jagged edge of this piece is designed to make marks on any soft surface, from sand to drywall.

The hole in the middle of the hook is intended for fixing screws, nails and other small objects by the heads.

It is interesting that this part is not tightly attached to the canvas, but is movable. This is thought out in advance. It is able to shift by its own thickness to compensate for errors in measurement when the hook is installed outside and inside the reference point.

The best measuring tapes over 10 meters long

When a large building is being built, tape measures 20-30 m long help to take measurements quickly and accurately. They must be equipped with an effective winding system. Experts advise paying attention to two models.

STANLEY HAND TOOLS STANLEY FATMAX 30 M

Rating: 4.9

The STANLEY HAND TOOLS STANLEY FATMAX 30-meter tape measure is used on large construction sites. This American development is equipped with a narrow (10 mm) tape, due to which the weight was reduced to 1.3 kg. A wire loop is attached to the end of the flexible steel tape, which makes it easier to fix to the starting point. For quick winding, an effective mechanism is installed in the plastic case. The rubber pad softens the impact on the tape measure in case of accidental falls or impacts. Experts highly appreciated the build quality, giving the product first place in our rating.

Builders praise the tape measure for its accuracy, reliability and durability. Users consider the high price to be a disadvantage of the tool.

Advantages

• fast tape rewinding;
• two-piece body;
• wear-resistant scale coating;
• high-quality assembly.

Flaws

• high price.

Which is better

One of the main criteria when choosing a laser level is to determine the area of ​​tasks for which the tool is purchased. And to do this, you need to understand the principle by which marks are built by this device.

Absolutely all laser levels operate on a diode system, which converts electric current into a narrow beam of green or red light. This process occurs in such a way that photons appear in the buffer zone formed between two semiconductors of electricity.

Then they fly out through a hole in one of the walls. In this case, the laser beam must be focused so that it does not scatter due to the undirected movement of photons. The laser level has lenses and prisms for this purpose. However, exactly what system they are arranged in depends on the type of device itself.

What types are there

Spot

The simplest level, it contains a static laser and one focusing lens through which photons move. Such a device must be configured independently through the built-in bubble levels. It looks like a simple laser pointer that projects a light beam along the wall. After adjusting the level, the beam will not be noticeable in the air, but will appear as dots on the surfaces through which it will pass. It will be enough for the builder to mark the necessary places with a marker and rely on them during further work.

This type of level can also be equipped with two opposing lasers, which helps to transfer markings from bottom to top or accurately apply them along long walls. The point device is ideal for home work or marking on a long surface, where it is not necessary to use expensive high-quality equipment, but it has a high probability of error, which must be taken into account when purchasing.

Linear

A very popular type of laser levels, as it projects the beam in the form of a line. Its functionality also includes the option to display a mark at any location where the laser encounters an obstacle.

What distinguishes a linear laser level from the previous type is the presence of an additional diffuse lens. Many such devices have several lasers at once to create a larger number of lines. This level also has one extremely useful option - auto-leveling, which corrects possible errors during installation.

Models of these lasers, as a rule, have very reliable auto-centering and a wide coverage angle. Therefore, they are most often used in finishing and construction in situations where it is necessary to install a plane to correct the work.

Rotary

This is a tool for professional use; it creates a horizontal plane over large areas. According to the mechanism of operation, it is a point laser rotating at an adjustable frequency. The device has a very large coverage and range, and a very low percentage of error.

Combined

Such laser levels combine functions of different types, for example, adding the ability to construct additional points and lines in rotary levels, which do not have this option.

• Bosch. Popular models of the best German quality. During development, brand technologies are used that ensure the highest reliability and long service life.
• ADA. The company's profile is the production of laser equipment of the best quality.
• Makita. The world leader, whose factories operate successfully in many countries, has earned recognition from users for the excellent quality of its products. A distinctive feature is that the brand specializes in the production of affordable professional equipment.
• DeWALT. A brand from the USA, recognized as one of the best in electronics production on the world market. It is no accident that the tools and equipment of this manufacturer have been considered high quality for many decades; they meet all standards of reliability and functionality, thanks to strict quality control during production.

The best geodetic roulettes

In the professional activities of surveyors, a measuring tape is a reliable assistant. It differs from traditional models not only in its greater length (30-50 m), but also in the special shape of the handle. Here are some quality samples.

Empire EM30MFG

Rating: 4.9

The Empire EM30MFG geodetic tape measure has a fairly simple and convenient design. The manufacturer used an open-type case; it is made of durable ABS plastic. The D-shaped handle allows you to hold the tool securely while unwinding the tape. Rubber pads provide comfort during operation and also protect the tool from damage when dropped. For the manufacture of the tape, fiberglass with a width of 19 mm was used, which made it possible to reduce the weight of the 30-meter product to 0.96 kg. There is a special folding handle for winding the tape. The model takes first place in our rating.

Users have no complaints about the quality of manufacture and reliability of the roulette. The model is 100% worth the money spent on it.

Advantages

• two-piece body;
• comfortable handle;
• light weight;
• high-quality assembly.

Flaws

• high price.

Device and characteristics

The design of the simplest measuring tape is extremely simple:

• Measuring sheet – a plastic or metal narrow strip (web), on the front of which a scale is applied.

• The case is a small plastic or metal box in which the canvas is stored in a roll-shaped form (hence the name).

• Hook – the metal tip of the measuring tape.

Serves to fix the zero mark of the scale at the corner of the measured object, or any of its protruding elements.

This allows you to use the tool with one hand.

There are options equipped with a double hook - two teeth protruding from the front and back sides of the blade.

• Latch – a mechanism located on the body that allows you to fix the blade in a selected area.

In most cases, it is a key - a slider that presses the blade to the body when pressed.

Alternatively, the roulette can have an auto-stop or a so-called pause button.

• The spring is perhaps the most important element that ensures ease of use of the tool.

Responsible for independently winding the fabric into the body.

In addition to the elements that form the basis of the tape measure design, additional mechanisms can be installed on the body, for example, a small flashlight for illuminating the scale, a strap for conveniently removing the instrument from a pocket or wearing it on the wrist, a clip for fixing it on a belt.

Main parameters characterizing the tool:

• dimensions and material of the canvas;
• measuring scale parameters;
• body parameters;
• fastener type;
• accuracy class;
• parameters of the hook (hook).

Material

The body of the household and construction tape measure is made of durable plastic.

This material is quite sufficient to ensure structural strength, since the housing box itself is small in size and assembled monolithically.

Typically, the body is painted black, however, there are also multi-colored bright options.

In general, a bright color is preferable, as it allows you to quickly find the tape measure among construction tools and materials where it was carelessly left.

Another option is a tool with a transparent polycarbonate body, which has toughness and durability.

Due to the white canvas, it also immediately catches the eye.

For additional protection from mechanical damage, as well as for ease of holding in the hand, a rubberized plastic casing of the tape measure is made, which is inferior in compactness to options without a rubber coating.

Special geodetic tape measures with a web length of more than 30 meters almost all have a metal body.

Dimensions and weight

Depending on the type of tool, its dimensions are within the following limits:

• Length: 30 – 300 mm
• Width: 6 – 30 mm
• Height: 30 – 300 mm

Dimensions of a classic household tape measure, which can be found in almost every home:

• Case length – 56 mm
• Case width – 13 mm
• Case height – 58 mm

The weight of the tool depends on its size, the length of the blade and the materials from which its components are made.

The weight of the household version is 150 – 250 g.

An interesting fact is that most tape measures indicate the length of their body.

This allows the tool to be used to measure inside openings without any bending of the blade.

In other words, the length of the extracted blade is added to the length of the body.