How To Choose The Best Tape Measure

Last updated: 1 May 2023

While a tape measure may seem like a simple tool, it can actually serve multiple functions like a Swiss Army knife. However, with so many options available, it can be challenging to determine which tape measure is the best fit for your needs. In this post, I’ll provide three key factors to consider when shopping for a tape measure.

Intended use

And this is probably the most important thing to consider. Most of the tape measures at the hardware stores nowadays can be broken up into two major categories. The first is metal tapes and the next is fiberglass tapes.

Metal tapes now are generally smaller and they come in a variety of different sizes. They’re more commonly used for basically any other task that doesn’t require you to lay out large areas. Metal tapes as you can imagine then are not very durable because they’re metal they hate the weather and they hate the mud.

Fiberglass tapes are generally larger than all the tape measures and they’re used for larger layout tasks like laying out a house on a lock or laying out footings or foundation. Fiberglass tapes are when it comes to durability last a lot longer because they’re not metal they’re fiberglass.

Compared to traditional metal tape measures, modern tape measures are often more durable and better equipped to handle the elements. This makes them an ideal choice for outdoor activities like playing in the mud. When selecting a tape measure, consider the conditions you’ll be working in and the tasks you’ll be performing. For larger layout projects, a fiberglass tape measure may be a better fit, while a smaller metal tape measure may be sufficient for simpler tasks. Understanding your specific needs and requirements will help you choose the right tape measure for your project.

Function

How well does it work? This is going to be a bit of a trial and error because sometimes you just got to get your hands on it to be able to feel which tape is going to work better for you. Go to the hardware store look at the list of tapes that are out there grab them put them in your hand get a feel for him which one feels better in your hand, which one locks better which one retracts better.

And for fiberglass tapes specifically which one rolls up better sometimes, the rolling mechanism doesn’t work very well and they can get stuck. One of the other things I keep in mind is to stand out. The standout is basically how far can you put the tape measure out how far can it stand by itself before it breaks.

Personal preference

Personal preference includes ergonomics. The bottom line you have to like is it has to feel good in your hand. So when thinking about personal preference also then you can think about the size. For somebody with bigger hands maybe a 35″ is good but for me, it’s just massive it’s very uncomfortable. There are still a little 16″ and I love this tape size for little projects inside our house or right here in the shop. And for everybody else, there’s this a little six-footer.

Final Thoughts

Tape measures come in various sizes and shapes, but it’s essential to choose one that feels comfortable in your hand. I hope this post has provided valuable insights and helped you in selecting the right tape measure for your needs. I encourage you to visit your local hardware store and physically handle different tape measures to determine which one suits you best. Share your favorite tape measure with me by leaving a comment below. Let me know what tape measure you prefer and why it’s your favorite.