With so many different types of measuring tape, how do you know which one to choose? From garment making to carpentry to renovations and furniture measurements, we find that tape measures play an important role in our lives. However, different uses require different types of measuring tape, such as cloth tape for tailoring and long tape or laser tape measures for civil engineering and surveying. Choosing the right tape measure type can make your measurements more efficient. This complete guide will show you the skills of all types of measuring tape at once!
For more information, please visit SINOTOOLS.
Below, I will introduce you to the 8 most commonly used and popular types of measuring tape, from the mini keychain type that you can carry with you to the laser black technology that can measure 100 meters. Whether you are a professional master or a DIY enthusiast, this guide will help you find the types of measuring tape that suit you best!
What is a cloth tape measure? Among all types of measuring tapes, this soft flexible ruler is the one tailors and DIY-loving moms swear by! You’ve definitely seen it – that slim, ribbon-like tape printed with precise centimeter/inch scales that bends effortlessly around curves. Unlike stiff metal tapes meant for furniture or construction, this is the go-to for measuring living things – wrap it around waists for sewing clothes, measure your pup’s neck for a collar, or even gauge curtain pleats. For anything that isn’t flat or rigid, this adaptable little tape shines!
An in-depth look
Pros
The cloth tape measure can be folded at will, which is convenient for measuring irregular objects.
The cloth tape measure does not take up space and is very convenient for travel and home.
The cloth tape measure has no metal edges, which is safe and does not hurt your hands.
The cloth tape measure generally has centimeters and inches on both sides to adapt to different usage habits.
The cloth tape measure is cheap.
Cons
The scale of the cloth tape measure is easy to wear after long-term use.
The cloth tape measure is not suitable for large-size measurements.
The GDMINLO soft tape measure stands out among types of measuring tapes with its ultra-flexible design—unlike rigid metal tapes, this one bends and folds effortlessly to fit any curve! Featuring dual scales (60 inches/150 cm), it adapts to your needs, whether you’re measuring waistlines or garment lengths or tracking your baby’s growth. While other types of measuring tapes might snap or strain, this fabric version stays gentle and safe, even if your little one wiggles during measurements. Perfect for tailoring, parenting, or DIY projects where precision meets flexibility!
Features:
Made of flexible fiberglass, very soft, will not stretch or deform.
The black markings on the fabric measuring tape are large enough to see the size.
Both ends of the fabric measuring tape have metal tabs to fit snugly around the item being measured.
Ideal for tailors, seamstresses, or anyone who just needs a flexible measuring tape
The telescopic measuring tape stands out among types of measuring tapes as a go-to tool for quick, efficient measurements. It has a spring retractor and can be measured by pulling and releasing it. It is simple and quick to operate. The common length is between 1-10 meters. The steel tape is wear-resistant and the outer shell is ABS engineering plastic, which is both light and drop-resistant. The telescopic measuring tape is suitable for a variety of scenarios, such as decoration measurement, woodworking cutting, furniture installation, outdoor work, etc.
An in-depth look
Pros
Automatic retraction design, one-handed measurement, saving time and effort.
One-touch locking function, no additional fixing required after fixing the tape, making single-person operation easier.
The steel tape is rust-proof and scratch-resistant, suitable for construction sites and outdoor use.
Some models have magnetic heads that can be attached to metal surfaces for easy single-person operation.
Cons
Limited length: common models are 1-10 meters.
If you don’t hold it firmly during rapid retraction, the edge of the tape may cut your fingers.
Long-term violent stretching may cause spring failure and caliper.
The Mr. Pen retractable tape measure is made of top-grade rubber material, which has good shock absorption and is durable. The Retractable Tape Measure is 25 feet long and includes inches, centimeters, and millimeters, with clear and accurate readings. The Retractable Tape Measure adopts a spring automatic retraction design, which can be easily operated with one hand, and the built-in steel tape measure is rust-proof and scratch-resistant, suitable for daily household use and professional carpenters.
Features:
The Mr. Pen retractable tape measure is 25 feet long and has metric and imperial measurement functions.
This tape measure has a one-button locking function to make the measurement more stable.
This tape measure is suitable for interior designers, carpenters, and architects.
Long tapes are also known as surveyors’ tapes, which are usually 10-100 meters long and have very high accuracy. These types of measuring tape are usually made of reinforced fiberglass or steel tape, which has excellent tensile resistance. Long tapes can meet large-scale measurement needs, such as foundation elevation, land surveying, road construction, and other projects. During operation, the tape needs to be kept suspended to avoid wear. There are other models of this type of tape, such as reflective coating night operation models and insulating fiberglass models for power operations.
An in-depth look
Pros
Provides a professional range of 10-100 meters to meet the needs of large-scale measurement.
Error control is ±1-2mm/10m (in line with ISO standards)
Double-sided scale (metric/imperial, suitable for different professional scenarios.
Fiberglass model is insulated and rust-proof, acid and alkali resistant
The metal model is impact-resistant and suitable for harsh environments on construction sites.
Cons
50-100 meter model (turntable required), weighs more than 1.5kg, and is difficult for one person to operate.
Standardized operation is required (such as uniform speed winding), otherwise, it is easy to cause the tape to twist.
Measurement over 50 meters requires cooperation from multiple people.
The Komelon open-roll fiberglass tape has two sides, one in inches and one in meters, with clear readings and a ground stake, making it perfect for measuring long distances. The double-coated fiberglass tape is waterproof and dustproof, and the heavy-duty ABS frame is durable. This tape also comes with a multi-purpose end hook and a protective cover to prevent wear, making it perfect for use on construction sites and sports fields.
Features:
The roll of this long tape measure is double nylon coated and very durable.
There is a multi-purpose hook at the end of the roll.
This type of tape measure has measurement units on both sides.
Heavy-duty ABS frame with a comfortable rubber handle.
This long tape measure includes a ground stake for single-person operation.
Laser tape measure is the smart choice for precise measurement! Among various types of measuring tapes, this innovative tool stands out by using laser technology to measure distance with one click, eliminating the hassle of traditional tape measures. With millimeter-level accuracy, it effortlessly handles construction, renovation, and design tasks. Compact and portable, it also calculates area and volume while storing measurement data—perfect for solo operation. A must-have assistant for contractors, designers, and DIY enthusiasts, it delivers efficiency and saves time!
An in-depth look
Pros
Laser tape measures can measure with high precision, and the error is usually within ±1-2mm
Laser tape measures can measure up to 100 meters.
One-person operation, easy measurement (such as power equipment, high-altitude operations)
Automatically calculate area, volume, Pythagorean theorem, etc.
Can record multiple sets of measurement data for subsequent verification or export.
Cons
The laser point may be difficult to identify in strong light, transparent glass, or dark light environments.
Requires regular charging or battery replacement.
Several times more expensive than ordinary tape measures.
Features:
Provides accurate distance measurements up to 165 feet with ±1/16 inch accuracy.
Supports distance, area, volume, and Pythagorean calculations for versatile use.
Backlit LCD Display, easy-to-read display, even in low-light conditions.
IP54 Rating, dust and water-resistant design.
Measures in feet, inches, and meters for flexibility.
Among various types of measuring tapes, the mini pocket tape measure stands out with its retractable metal tape that delivers precise measurements in one simple pull. Compact enough to clip to a keychain or slip in your pocket, it’s perfect for carpenters, tailors, and DIYers alike—whether you’re sizing lumber, cutting fabric, or measuring furniture. Quick, convenient, and always ready when you need it!
An in-depth look
Pros
Cons
Limited range, usually 1-5 meters
Manual reading may have an error of 1-2mm.
Stanley pocket tape measures feature a solid metal construction and a polymer-coated blade for enhanced rust resistance and wear resistance. The yellow blade has clear markings for clear readings. The key ring design is small and lightweight, making it easy to carry around without feeling the weight. It fits perfectly in your wallet or pocket, making it very convenient for small tasks.
Features:
Stanley pocket tape measures are small types of measuring tape that are about 1.5 inches long and a little over 3 feet long.
Stanley pocket tape measure is small enough to carry with you.
Stanley pocket tape measure is made of metal and has a moderate weight so it can be easily hung on a keychain.
Adhesive measuring tapes are flexible, self-adhesive measuring strips that can be permanently or semi-permanently placed on workbenches, sewing tables, cutting surfaces, and other flat areas where frequent measurements are required. Self-adhesive measuring tapes are made of durable materials such as vinyl or metal and provide clear, easy-to-read metric and imperial unit markings. Self-adhesive measuring tapes easily adhere to a variety of materials, such as metal and glass, making them ideal for carpenters, tailors, and others.
An in-depth look
Pros
It can be directly pasted and fixed on surfaces such as walls and tool tables.
Suitable for scenes where it is difficult to work with both hands, such as high places and narrow spaces.
Dirt-resistant and wear-resistant, can be used repeatedly.
Flexible cutting; can be cut to length as needed.
Cons
Requires a flat and clean surface, and is easy to fall off in rough and wet places.
Some models have disposable adhesive backing, which needs to be replaced after failure.
The measuring range is limited, and a single roll is usually 3-10 meters.
A WIN TAPE workbench ruler adhesive-backed tape measure is made of 100% eco-friendly material. Tape size is 61cm / 24 inches, it has clear, easy-to-read markings in both metric and imperial units and provides hands-free convenience for woodworking, metalworking, and crafting. You can easily cut it to size with scissors and stick it anywhere. The workbench ruler adhesive-backed tape measure is not only waterproof but also not afraid of sun exposure.
Are you interested in learning more about tape measure manufacture? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!
Features:
The adhesive tape measure is very convenient, you can stick it anywhere.
The adhesive tape measure is durable and waterproof.
Made of 100% eco-friendly material.
Keychain tape measures are types of measuring tape that can be hung on a key ring. As one of the types of measuring tape, it features a 1-6 feet retractable metal tape or flexible tape, making it easy to handle daily measurements. Whether it is unpacking express delivery, measuring furniture for renovation, or temporary travel needs, just pull it out and use it. It is simply an emergency expert in life and work! The wear-resistant shell can withstand tossing, and it is also very practical as a promotional item or a small gift. From now on, you don’t have to look for a tape measure everywhere for measurement.
An in-depth look
Pros
It can be directly hung on the keychain, easy to carry and use.
Metal/ABS material weighs only 20g-50g, resistant to falling and wear.
The keychain tape measure has a lock key to meet daily needs.
The keychain tape measures are cheap.
Cons
Generally up to 5 meters, only suitable for measuring small objects.
Manual reading error is about ±1mm.
The keychain tape measure is too small and may fall off the keychain.
The LUFKIN Keychain Tape Measure features a one-touch lock for easy reading, and the scale on the blade is clear, even if you are nearsighted. The red and black color combination is very advanced, and this keychain tape measure is very compact and convenient for you to carry around, whether it is in your car, purse, or hanging on your keychain. It is suitable for measuring anything under 8 feet, and can be measured quickly.
Features:
The black blade makes it clear and easy to read in any light.
Long enough to measure the dimensions of anything within 8 feet.
Small enough to fit in your pocket.
Magnetic tape measures have a super practical function compared to ordinary types of measuring tape—they are magnetic! As one of the types of measuring tape, they are especially suitable for measuring metal surfaces. The magnet on the head of the tape can firmly hold metal materials such as steel and iron pipes, so you don’t have to worry about the tape slipping off when operating it with one hand. It has a variety of lengths to choose from, usually ranging from 10 feet to 40 feet. It is a great helper for electricians, mechanics, and decorators.
An in-depth look
Pros
The head of the tape has a magnet, which can be adsorbed on metal surfaces.
Suitable for measuring metal objects such as steel structures and pipes, not easy to slide.
High-carbon steel tape + anti-scratch coating, wear-resistant.
Freely switch between metric (cm/mm) and imperial (inch).
Widely used in construction, machinery, electricity, and other industries.
Cons
Non-metal surfaces (such as wood and wall) cannot be adsorbed.
Magnetic tape measures are heavier and less portable.
Zabiki Magnetic 25ft (7.5m) Tape Measures are very durable types of tape measures that are very easy to use and very accurate in reading. It has a strong magnetic hook that easily attaches to metal surfaces, making it ideal for individual measurements. Made with a sturdy, impact-resistant housing and a smooth retractable blade, the tape measure is perfect for renovators, interior designers, carpenters, and architects.
Features:
With metric and imperial unit markings.
Bold and large numbers – easy to read.
The tape measure housing is made of top-grade rubber material and is highly impact-resistant.
Magnetic hook for easy use.
The length varies depending on its purposes and the different types of measuring tape. For daily use, the measuring range is relatively short. For example, pocket tape measures are mostly 1 to 5 meters, and keychain tape measures are mostly 1 to 3 meters. Professional engineering tape measures have a longer measuring range, and laser and long tape measures can be up to 100 meters.
What are tape measures made of?Measuring tapes are usually made of high-carbon steel or fiberglass tape and an ABS plastic shell. Professional models will add anti-rust coating or magnetic suction heads, while self-adhesive measuring tapes use PVC adhesive backing material. The combination of different materials balances durability, portability, and professional needs.
Why is my tape measure inaccurate?1. The tape is bent and deformed (needs to be replaced).
2. The magnetic head is not firmly attached (magnetic tape measure).
3. The battery is low (laser tape measure).
4. The reading angle is biased (should be observed vertically).
How do I care for my tape measure?1. Keep types of tape measures dry.
2. Avoid strong bending.
3. Clean the tape regularly.
4. Laser tape measures must be protected from falling objects and dust.
How to choose the right tape measure?1. Daily household use: pocket tape measure/keychain tape measure.
2. Decoration and construction: 5-10m steel tape measure.
3. Metal measurement: magnetic tape measure.
4. Large-range measurement: laser tape measure.
5. Special needs: self-adhesive tape measure.
What is the difference in measurement accuracy between different tape measures?1. Laser tape measure: ±1-2mm.
2. Steel tape measure: ±1mm/meter.
3. Fiber tape measure: ±3mm/meter.
4. Pocket tape measure: ±2mm.
After reading this complete guide to 8 types of measuring tape, do you find that the world of tape measures is more interesting than you thought? From mini pocket tape measures to laser tape measures that can accurately measure hundreds of meters, each tape measure has its unique performance, advantages, and disadvantages. The best choice depends on the type of needs you have.
The tape measure is just one of the large family of measuring tools. When you are doing handicrafts, a triangle ruler will be more useful, and when you are drawing, a T-square will be more useful. Want to know more tips on choosing measuring tools? We have made a more comprehensive introduction in the article “Different Types Of Rulers You Want To Know”.
The team here at The Tape Store have put this page together to give you what is hopefully all the information you'll need to make a properly informed choice. Either scroll through this page to find what you need or, alternatively, why not simply click on one of the following links and be taken to the relevent section?
Please note that this section only focuses on tape measures and does not provide guidance on laser measures. You can find information on choosing the perfect laser measure in our Ultimate Buyer's Guide to Leica Disto Laser Measures.
We pride ourselves in stocking only the best brands that produce the very highest quality of products. As a result you can rest safe in the knowledge that absolutely everything you buy from The Tape Store will live up to your expectations.
Whilst this can change from time to time, the brands we frequently stock include...
You can search for a particular brand of tape measure by using the main site navigation on the left of this screen.
The Tape Store stocks an incredibly wide range of tape measures for use in all manner of situations by almost any trade you can think of. We don’t just supply to plumbers, carpenters, builders and engineers, we also supply to land surveyors, tree surveyors, IT specialists, electricians, setting out engineers, school caretakers, DIYers... you get the picture!
As the UK's leading online supplier, we take the quality and reliability of our products very seriously. Each and every type of tape measure we sell has been inspected, tested and used in anger by our staff just to make sure that it's fit for purpose. It goes without saying, therefore, that we're justifiably proud of our product range and the brands that we stock... firms such as Stanley, Irwin and Fisco but also including smaller but equally innovative firms like Advent.
To make choosing the right tape as easy as possible we've provided a structured product page to include the following information...
To further assist, we've then included a brief description of the product, expanding on the details above including the various features and benefits of that particular tape. See below for examples of a sample product...
There are a number of things that you should look out for when choosing one of our tapes... some of these will be more or less important to you depending upon your trade and what you'll be using your tape for. Below you'll find a list of some of the most important characteristics that most of our customers look for when buying a tape.
Possibly the single most important factor to most of our customers, the length of our tapes can range from 3m/10ft to 100m/330ft with countless choices in between. The length you choose depends almost entirely upon quite what you need your tape for. Simple DIY, carpet fitting or carpentry? A 5-10m 'Short Tape' would probably be ideal. Setting out of structures or landscaping on a large scale, however, would most likely demand one of our 'Long Tapes', a term that encompasses almost all tapes over the length of 10m/33ft.
You can search for a particular lenght of tape measure by using the main navigation on the left of this screen.
By 'measurements' we're referring to the types of increments you see along your tape's blade. In days gone by (pre-decimalisation) all tapes would be divided into inches and feet; the same is still true today in the United States. In mainland Europe, however, there has been a difinitive move towards metric divisions, e.g, milimetres, centimetres and metres. The UK, on the other hand, takes a somewhat more confusing approach to measurements!
Whilst the process of metrication started officially in the UK way back in there are still trades (and individuals) who still prefer to work using imperial measurements. As a result, many tapes made for the UK market are sold with both metric and imperial measurements running down the length of the tape on opposite sides, much as you can see in the image below...
There are three materials commonly used in the manufacture of tape measure blades; namely steel, stainless steel and fibreglass. Each has its advantages and disadvantages and only you will know quite which one is best for your trade and requirements. We've put together a short summary of the pros and cons of each material to help you make the right choice...
You can look for a tape made from a specific material by using the 'browse by material' navigation on the left of this screen.
A tape measure's case or 'body' is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a tape. Whilst we won't stock anything that won't stand up to the rigours of every day use, some tapes are more robust than others! Most tape cases are constructed from high quality, impact resistant plastic whilst others have stainless steel cases to help avoid corrosion.
These days, however, more and more high quality tapes have a bi-material case made from two materials. The first will either be steel, stainless steel or plastic for ruggedness whilst the second will generally be a rubber-like material designed not only to absorb impact but also to fit comfortably into your hand. The more frequently you use your tape the more important this should be to you.
In The UK we tend to classify tape accuracy according to the European Weights and Measures Regulations. Under these rules tape measures can fall under the classification of either Class I, Class II or Class III. The vast majority of products sold by The Tape Store are either Class I or Class II tapes. Whilst, as you would imagine, Class I tapes are the most accurate, for most uses a Class II tape is more than accurate enough.
The Tape Store will always display a tape measure's accuracy on each product detail page making it easy to identify the type of tape you need.
The following table should provide you with an idea as to just how accurate a Class I, II or III tape will be at a certain length. The measurements below indicate the error you can expect to see in mm (+/-). Please note that these tolerances have been predetermined at a 20°C and a power/load of 50N.
Coming soon to The Tape Store, you will be able to choose your tape measure based on its accuracy (Class I, II etc.) using our left hand menu.
Another important factor to consider when choosing a tape measure, the wider the blade the longer the standout... generally! What's more, a wider blade allows for larger, clearer markings and a tape that can be easier to read.
The locking mechanism is a vital part of almost any tape, allowing the user to 'lock off' or hold the tape at a fixed point. Not only does this prevent the tape from getting in the way, bent or damaged when taking measurements, it also allows the user to mark a specific point on the tape, i.e. the tape can be locked to mark the end of a measurement.
Whilst some tapes are automatically held in place when extended (the Stanley Leverlock range, for example) the majority of pocket tapes use an 'auto lock' function whereby a small button on the body of the tape can be held or locked into place to keep the blade in position. An example of this can be seen below... note the tape held in place by the locking mechanism.
A tape measure's hook, as you might imagine, is the small part at the very tip of the blade that allows the user to 'hook' the tape over an object. Whilst the hook is essential to almost all tape measures (apart from tailors' or fabric tapes), they come in particularly useful when working alone. With noone to help hold the tape, a large, protruding hook (such as that on the Stanley FatMax Xtreme tape pictured above) can be a very real advantage over a smaller, more conventional hook.
The accuracy of a tape measure is partly dependent upon the hook being moveable to take into account the thickness of the hook itself. Obviously the hook has a thickness in itself - not compensating for this would lead to inaccuracies. When measuring towards an object, presure should be applied towards the object, thereby moving the hook ever so slightly towards it, taking up the slack and maintaining accuracy. When measuring away from that same object the user should always pull the tape towards them once securely 'hooked'... this in turn pulls the hook away from the tape and, once again, maintains accuracy.
The majority of hooks are made from metal (steel or stainless steel) but can occasionally be constructed from plastic - it will generally be either the cheaper end of the market or non-conductive tapes that fall into this category. Tape manufacturers also occasionally coat part of the hooks in rubber for added grip. Some manufacturers even use magnetic hooks which are particularly useful when measuring metallic objects. An incredibly useful feature for many but one that can (albeit only slightly) hamper accuracy due to the hook being 'pulled' towards the nearest metallic object rather than adjusting to compensate.
There are exceptions to the rule, however... the Stanley FatMax Xtreme pictured above uses a clever system whereby the magnet and the hook operate indpendently of each other. Not only do you get the obvious benefits of a magnetic hook, you also achieve accuracy to EC Class II.
The final thing to bear in mind when considering which hook type to choose is the direction or orientation of the hook in relation to the measurements. Most tapes (as with the Stanley Tylon pictured on the left below) use 'bottom hooks' that face downwards when taking a measurement from above. More advanced tapes such as the Stanley FatMax Xtreme pictured on the right now feature top hooks. These allow the tape to be read from above whilst hooked onto an object above it. Such tapes can also include side hooks which allow the tape to be securely hooked onto an object to either side of the blade without the blade slipping.
Put simply, 'standout' is the distance a tape measure's blade can be extended before it bends or 'snaps'. As most of you will be only too aware, the longer the standout the better. Using a tape with insufficient standout when working alone or measuring long or tall objects simply isn't an option. You can find each tape's standout length listed under the 'Product Information' section of each page.
With so many products available on the market sometimes it can be hard to know which one is right for you. Perhaps you're a builder and need a rugged, Professional Tape that will stand the test of time... but are overwhelmed by the range of tapes on sale. Or perhaps you're a plumber who's fed up with throwing away tapes every few months through corrosion... you know you need a Stainless Steel Tape but aren't sure quite which.
To make life easier we're currently working with tradesmen of all types to produce what we feel is the 'Ultimate Buyers Guide to Tape Measures'... available to veiw online or download from our site, this document will walk you through the whys and wherefores, dos and don'ts of buying a tape measure and the pros and cons of each general type.
in the meantime, however, we've developed a couple more tools that will make your life easier. The first is a 'Tape Assistant'. Made up of four simple multiple choice questions, this widget makes choosing the right tape as easy as 1-2-3. Simply answer these questions and, in a matter of seconds, you're faced with a nice, tight selection of tapes perfectly suited to you and your needs. The second is a tape measure comparison tool that displays the attributes of up to three tapes against each other simultaneously making a fair comparison incredibly simple. To use the comparison tool simply click 'compare' underneath a maximum of three tapes in any category and then hit 'compare products'... a button that appears at the top right of the page.
The Tape Store stocks a huge range of tape measures, from Budget Tapes suitable for measuring the odd pair of curtains to heavy duty Surveyors Tapes or Professional Tapes for tradesmen. Whilst we do our best to provide you with all the information you could possibly need there's only so much that one website can give! When it comes down to it the best source of information on a product is almost always its manufacturer.
As a result we've put together a list of contact details - numbers, website or addresses - that will allow you to get in touch with our products' designers and manufacturers. Anything that we can't answer the chances are they can! Why not take a look at our Technical Help page?
The very first record of a tape measure sees the Romans using strips of leather with markings scored into its sides. The first commercially viable Steel Tape, however, was patended by Hiram Farrand of Berlin, New Hampshire in . This product was later sold to Stanley Works, a firm that is still a byword for quality and reliability even today.
For more information, please visit best professional socket set.