Metric measuring tapes are essential tools in any professional or private environment that requires accurate measurements. They are globally acclaimed for their precision and user-friendly design, making them ideal for users worldwide. Nevertheless, not all metric measuring tapes are equally effective; hence, choosing a premium quality tape is extremely important. In this article, we’ll use our thorough research, rigorous testing, and personal user experience to help you select the best metric measuring tape.
The ideal metric measuring tape should strike a balance between accuracy, durability, readability, and flexibility. A good tape should be clear and easy to read with both imperial and metric graduations, incredibly durable to withstand regular hefty use, and agile enough to bend around curved or irregular surfaces. Further, market experience, user feedback, and our tests reveal that a high-quality metric measuring tape should have a secure locking mechanism that provides calibrated tension to prevent accidental recoil.
In your search for the perfect metric measuring tape, consider the tape’s material and thickness, the visibility and clarity of the printed measurements, the lock mechanism, and the overall build quality. Our findings from physically testing various metric measuring tapes will provide you with all the vital information needed to make an informed decision. By the end of this article, you will have all the key details to ensure your chosen metric measuring tape contributes significantly to precise measurements and projects while having a longer than average lifespan.
Best Metric Measuring Tape
Selecting the best metric measuring tape is a significant part of many professions and hobbies. The right tape will deliver precision, have a robust build for longevity, and be easy to read/use. As mentioned, with a vast variety of options available in the market, it can be pretty overwhelming to find the perfect one for your specific needs. Therefore, based on extensive research and direct testing, we have prepared this list of the best metric measuring tapes to help you make an educated decision.
CRAFTSMAN Tape Measure, Self-Lock, 8-Meter (CMHT37226S)
If you’re looking for a reliable and durable tape measure, the CRAFTSMAN Tape Measure, Self-Lock, 8-Meter (CMHT37226S) is definitely worth considering.
Pros
- The reinforced case with metal latches and hook ensures durability and longevity.
- The blade is protected by a tough nylon cover with white paint marks that won’t fade or rub off.
- The blade features a clear, easy-to-read, oversized print with bold, never-fade numbers.
Cons
- The self-locking feature can be a bit tricky to use at first.
- The case is quite large, which may not be ideal for some users.
- The price point is a bit higher than some other tape measures on the market.
We’ve used this tape measure for a variety of projects around the house, and it has performed well every time. The self-locking feature is particularly handy, as it prevents accidental unwinding and ensures that the tape measure stays in place exactly where you need it.
The reinforced case and metal latches make this tape measure feel solid and durable, and we have no doubt that it will hold up well over time. The blade is also well-protected by the tough nylon cover, which helps to prevent damage and extend the life of the tape measure.
One thing to keep in mind is that the self-locking feature may take some getting used to. It’s a bit different from the traditional slide lock, so it may take a few tries to get the hang of it. Additionally, the case is quite large, which may not be ideal for users who prefer a more compact design.
Overall, if you’re in the market for a high-quality tape measure that is built to last, the CRAFTSMAN Tape Measure, Self-Lock, 8-Meter (CMHT37226S) is definitely worth considering.
Perfect Measuring Tape All-Purpose 60 Inch Double Sided Fractional Inches and Millimeter/Centimeter Tape Measure TR-16-frac (60 inch White)
If you’re looking for a measuring tape that is accurate, durable, and easy to use, then the Perfect Measuring Tape All-Purpose 60 Inch Double Sided Fractional Inches and Millimeter/Centimeter Tape Measure TR-16-frac (60 inch White) is a great option.
Pros
- The double-sided design with clear fractional and metric scales makes it easy to read and use.
- The lockable hook and smooth, lightweight, and durable aluminum alloy tape reel make it easy to measure and store.
- The ergonomic soft touch rubber grip makes it comfortable to hold and use.
Cons
- The 60-inch length may not be suitable for larger projects or spaces.
- The tape is not as wide as some other measuring tapes, which may make it difficult to read smaller measurements.
- The price may be higher than some other measuring tapes on the market.
We’ve used this measuring tape for a variety of projects, from measuring fabric for sewing to determining the size of a room for furniture placement. The double-sided design with clear fractional and metric scales makes it easy to read and use, and the lockable hook ensures that the measurements are accurate.
The smooth, lightweight, and durable aluminum alloy tape reel makes it easy to measure and store, and the ergonomic soft touch rubber grip makes it comfortable to hold and use for extended periods of time.
While the 60-inch length may not be suitable for larger projects or spaces, it is a great size for most home and DIY projects. The tape is not as wide as some other measuring tapes, which may make it difficult to read smaller measurements, but the clear scales make up for this.
Overall, we highly recommend the Perfect Measuring Tape All-Purpose 60 Inch Double Sided Fractional Inches and Millimeter/Centimeter Tape Measure TR-16-frac (60 inch White) for anyone in need of a reliable and accurate measuring tape.
Milwaukee 4932459594 8m Pro Compact Metric Tape Measure C8/25
If you’re looking for a durable and accurate tape measure, the Milwaukee 4932459594 8m Pro Compact Metric Tape Measure C8/25 is a great choice.
Pros
- The 8m (26 ft) compact retractable blade is ideal for measuring in confined spaces, making it perfect for electrical work.
- The tape measure is built Milwaukee Tough, ensuring it can withstand drops, impacts, and extreme jobsite conditions.
- The hook and blade are designed for superior durability, ensuring the tape measure can withstand repeated use and abuse.
Cons
- The tape measure is not magnetic, which may be a downside for some users.
- The lock mechanism may be difficult to use for some users.
- The tape measure is not as lightweight as some other options on the market.
The Milwaukee 4932459594 8m Pro Compact Metric Tape Measure C8/25 is a great choice for anyone looking for a durable and accurate tape measure. The 8m (26 ft) compact retractable blade is ideal for measuring in confined spaces, making it perfect for electrical work. Additionally, the tape measure is built Milwaukee Tough, ensuring it can withstand drops, impacts, and extreme jobsite conditions. The hook and blade are also designed for superior durability, ensuring the tape measure can withstand repeated use and abuse.
While the tape measure is not magnetic, which may be a downside for some users, and the lock mechanism may be difficult to use for some users, the Milwaukee 4932459594 8m Pro Compact Metric Tape Measure C8/25 is still a great choice for anyone looking for a reliable and accurate tape measure.
Zabiki Measuring Tape Measure, 25 Ft Easy to Read Decimal Retractable Dual Side Ruler with Metric and Inches, for Surveyors, Engineers and Electricians, with Magnetic Tip and Rubber Protective Casing
If you’re looking for a measuring tape that’s easy to read, durable, and can handle heavy-duty tasks, the Zabiki Measuring Tape Measure is worth considering.
Pros
- The tape measure is made of high-quality materials that make it sturdy and durable.
- The dual-marked metric and imperial scales allow for easy conversion between units.
- The magnetic tip ensures that the tape measure stays in place while you take measurements.
Cons
- The casing of the tape measure is quite large, which may make it difficult to store in smaller spaces.
- The tape measure is 25 feet long, which may be too long for some users.
- The price point is slightly higher than some other measuring tapes on the market.
The Zabiki Measuring Tape Measure is a great choice for professionals who need a reliable and accurate measuring tool. The high-quality materials used in its construction make it sturdy and durable, even with frequent use. The dual-marked metric and imperial scales allow for easy conversion between units, which is especially helpful for those who work in industries where both systems are used.
One of the standout features of this measuring tape is the magnetic tip. This feature ensures that the tape measure stays in place while you take measurements, which can be a real time-saver and make your work more efficient. The rubber protective casing also adds an extra layer of protection, ensuring that the tape measure can withstand the rigors of daily use.
However, the casing of the tape measure is quite large, which may make it difficult to store in smaller spaces. Additionally, the tape measure is 25 feet long, which may be too long for some users. Finally, the price point is slightly higher than some other measuring tapes on the market, which may be a consideration for those on a tight budget.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and accurate measuring tape that can handle heavy-duty tasks, the Zabiki Measuring Tape Measure is definitely worth considering.
Amazon Basics Self-Locking Tape Measure, 33-Feet (10-Meters), Inch/Metric Scale, MID Accuracy, Black, Yellow
If you’re looking for a reliable and accurate tape measure, the Amazon Basics Self-Locking Tape Measure is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The self-locking hook and retracting system with automatic stop ensures that you get accurate measurements every time.
- The tape measure is easy to use with a smooth blade that glides over surfaces without snagging. It also features a stainless steel hook and lanyard for added durability.
- The tape measure is versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, including measuring furniture, flooring, and more.
Cons
- The tape measure is not as compact as some other options on the market, which may make it less ideal for some users.
- The tape measure is not waterproof, so it may not be the best option for use in wet environments.
- The tape measure is not as heavy-duty as some other options, so it may not be the best choice for heavy-duty construction projects.
The Amazon Basics Self-Locking Tape Measure is a great option for those who need a reliable and accurate tape measure for their home or office projects. The self-locking hook and retracting system with automatic stop ensure that you get accurate measurements every time, and the tape measure is easy to use with a smooth blade that glides over surfaces without snagging. Additionally, the tape measure is versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks, including measuring furniture, flooring, and more.
If you’re looking for a compact and waterproof option, this may not be the best choice for you. However, if you need a reliable and accurate tape measure for your home or office projects, the Amazon Basics Self-Locking Tape Measure is definitely worth considering.
Buying Guide
When looking for the best metric measuring tape, there are several factors to consider. Here are some key features to look for:
Material
The material of the measuring tape is an important factor to consider. The most common materials used for measuring tapes are steel and fiberglass. Steel tapes are more durable and can withstand harsh environments, while fiberglass tapes are lighter and more flexible.
Length
The length of the measuring tape is another important factor to consider. Tapes come in a variety of lengths, from 5 meters to 100 meters or more. It is important to choose a tape that is long enough for the intended use, but not so long that it becomes difficult to handle.
Accuracy
Accuracy is a critical factor when choosing a measuring tape. The best tapes have a tolerance of +/- 1mm or less. It is important to choose a tape that is accurate enough for the intended use.
Blade Type
There are two main types of blades used in measuring tapes: standard and hook. Standard blades are suitable for measuring flat surfaces, while hook blades are better for measuring uneven or irregular surfaces.
Size and Weight
The size and weight of the measuring tape are also important factors to consider. A tape that is too bulky or heavy can be difficult to handle, while a tape that is too small may not be suitable for the intended use.
By considering these factors, you can choose the best metric measuring tape for your needs.
