Best Steel Measuring Tapes of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 4, 2025

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Steel measuring tapes are an essential tool for any construction or DIY project. They are durable and accurate, making them suitable for measuring long distances and ensuring precision in building and renovation work. Steel measuring tapes are available in various lengths, from a few feet to several hundred feet, and come in different widths to cater to different measurement needs. They are also designed with easy-to-read markings for quick and accurate measurements. With their robust construction and reliable performance, steel measuring tapes are a must-have for anyone who wants to achieve professional-level results in their building projects.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Mr. Pen 25-Foot Steel Measuring Tape Cover #TOP 1
Mr. Pen 25-Foot Steel Measuring Tape
ftb score rating icon 9.9
CRAFTSMAN 100-ft Tape Measure CMHT34216 Cover #TOP 2
CRAFTSMAN 100-ft Tape Measure CMHT34216
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ALLWIN 25 Ft Metal Tape Measure Cover #TOP 3
ALLWIN 25 Ft Metal Tape Measure
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Steel Measuring Tapes

Mr. Pen 25-Foot Steel Measuring Tape

Yellow
25 ft
Mr. Pen 25-Foot Steel Measuring Tape Cover
Mr. Pen- Tape Measure, 25-Foot, Steel Retractable Tape Measure with Fractions, Easy Read Tape Measure, Steel Tape Measure 25 ft

Mr. Pen tape measure is a durable and shock-absorbent measuring tool that features both metric and imperial measurements. It has a length of 25' and a hook slot that can be latched onto a protruding nail or screw head, making it perfect for professional carpenters. The thumb lock allows you to stop the blade where you need it and retract it easily. The belt clip on the back of the case makes it easy to carry around hands-free.

What We Like
Durable and shock-absorbent
Features both metric and imperial measurements
Thumb lock allows you to easily stop and retract the blade
#TOP 2

CRAFTSMAN 100-ft Tape Measure CMHT34216

CMHT34216
Black
CRAFTSMAN 100-ft Tape Measure CMHT34216 Cover
CRAFTSMAN 100-ft Tape Measure, Easy-Wind Steel Blade (CMHT34216)

The CRAFTSMAN Tape Measure is designed with a durable steel blade that ensures longevity, making it a reliable tool for all your measuring needs. The easy wind drum allows you to retract the tape smoothly, saving you time and effort during your projects. With a polymer coating, the blade is protected from wear, ensuring it remains accurate and functional longer. Additionally, the clear markings make it easy for you to read measurements at a glance, enhancing your efficiency when marking or measuring. This tape measure combines practicality with durability, making it a must-have in any toolbox.

What We Like
Durable steel blade
Convenient retraction
Long-lasting polymer coating
Easy-to-read markings
#TOP 3

ALLWIN 25 Ft Metal Tape Measure

616943707069
7.6 m
ALLWIN 25 Ft Metal Tape Measure Cover
Tape Measure 25 Ft - Metal Retractable Tape Measure with Fractions, Easy Read Steel Tape Measure, 1-inch Wide X 25 Foot

The ALLWIN 25 Ft Tape Measure is a reliable tool designed for accuracy and durability. Its 1-inch wide steel blade features both metric and imperial measurements, making it ideal for various projects. With fractions clearly printed, you can quickly read measurements, saving you time and effort. The sturdy rubberized casing provides shock absorption, ensuring it withstands tough job site conditions. Plus, the hook slot allows you to secure the tape on nails or screws, giving you added stability while measuring. Enjoy the convenience of a belt clip for easy carrying wherever you go.

What We Like
Durable steel blade
Easy-to-read measurements
Shock-absorbent casing
Secure hook slot
Belt clip for portability
#TOP 4

Lichamp 165FT Measuring Tape

TMS-G150YL
Yellow and Black
50.3 m
Lichamp 165FT Measuring Tape Cover
Lichamp Long Tape Measure 165FT/50M, SAE Metric Measuring Tape Reel with Accurate Steel Tape

The Lichamp Measuring Tape offers an impressive length of 165 feet, making it perfect for a variety of tasks. Its durable steel tape is marked in both inches and millimeters, allowing for precise measurements whether you're working on a construction site or a DIY project. The reinforced ABS crank handle ensures that you can easily lock the tape in place, providing convenience during use. Additionally, the non-slip grip enhances comfort, allowing you to measure without straining your hands, making your work smoother and more efficient.

What We Like
Long measuring length
Durable steel tape
Comfortable non-slip grip
Convenient locking mechanism
#TOP 5

Crescent Lufkin 3/8" x 100' Construction Steel Long Tape

ST100-07
Black
30.5 m
Crescent Lufkin 3/8" x 100' Construction Steel Long Tape Cover
Crescent Lufkin 3/8" x 100' Construction Steel Long Tape - ST100-07

The Crescent Lufkin 3/8" x 100' Construction Steel Long Tape features a 3:1 rotating hub for fast rewind and a seated handle for protecting the crank assembly during storage. The extra wide, dual sided end hook increases grasping surface area and the two-sided blade provides more versatility for a variety of measuring requirements. The anti-knuckle busting handle includes a built-in stop allowing the crank to travel above users' fingers during retraction. The rugged ergonomic case optimizes the compact shape with user comfort while holding the case in hand.

What We Like
Extra wide, dual-sided end hook increases grasping surface area
Two-sided blade provides more versatility for a variety of measuring requirements
Anti-knuckle busting handle includes a built-in stop allowing crank to travel above users' fingers during retraction
#TOP 6

Komelon SM5425 Measuring Tape

SM5425
White
7.6 m
Komelon SM5425 Measuring Tape Cover
Komelon SM5425 Speed Mark Gripper Acrylic Coated Steel Blade Measuring Tape, 1-Inch X 25Ft , White

Komelon SM5425 Measuring Tape is a 1-inch X 25ft tape with SpeedMark fractional graduations on the non-glare white blade, making it easy to read. The tape features an easy-grip, thick rubber jacket, protected end hook, and stud markings noted on blade, which make it durable and convenient to use for measuring.

What We Like
Durable and easy to read blade
Thick rubber jacket for easy grip
Protected end hook for long-term use
#TOP 7

Komelon 9901 Gripper Closed Case Tape Measure, 100ft

9901
Yellow
30.5 m
Komelon 9901 Gripper Closed Case Tape Measure, 100ft Cover
Komelon 9901 Gripper Closed Case Long Steel Tape Measure, 100-Feet

The Komelon 9901 Gripper Closed Case Tape Measure is a reliable measuring tool that comes with a folding rewind crank for fast and easy retrieval. With its rubber-jacketed case, this tape measure fits nicely in your hand and is durable enough to withstand wear and tear. The nylon-coated blade ensures maximum durability, while the versatile end hook allows you to take measurements from different angles. This measuring tape is ideal for a variety of applications, from home improvement projects to professional construction work.

What We Like
Fast and reliable measurement retrieval with folding rewind crank
Durable and comfortable to use with rubber-jacketed case
Long-lasting nylon-coated blade
Versatile end hook for measuring from different angles
#TOP 8

HJJWNDDNG 25FT Stainless Steel Tape Measure

HJJWNDDNG
200034823010801
stainless steel
7.6 m
HJJWNDDNG 25FT Stainless Steel Tape Measure Cover
25FT Tape Measure Stainless Steel Measuring Tape with Double-Sided Scale Retractable Waterproof Measurement Tape Ruler with Fraction Markings for Industrial Carpenter Household

The HJJWNDDNG Tape Measure offers a practical solution for all your measuring needs. Its hollow design allows for easy cleaning, so you can simply rinse it off when exposed to sand or water. The double-sided scale features clear fractions, making it simple for you to take precise measurements from either side. Made from premium stainless steel and ABS, this tape is both waterproof and rustproof, ensuring durability in tough conditions. With a generous length of 25 feet, you can measure a variety of items effortlessly and retract it smoothly when you're done.

What We Like
Easy to clean
Double-sided measurements
Durable materials
25 feet measuring length
#TOP 9

DEWALT 100-Foot Tape Measure with Fast Blade Rewind

DWHT34036L
Yellow
30.5 m
DEWALT 100-Foot Tape Measure with Fast Blade Rewind Cover
DEWALT Tape Measure, 100-Foot, Self-Lock, Solid Chrome Finish, Rubber Grip (DWHT34036L)

The DEWALT Tape Measure features a 5:1 gear ratio for 5 times faster blade rewind, a blade release button for easy blade pull out, and a spring loaded caribiner attachment for easy transportation. Additionally, it has a rust-resistant coating to prolong blade life and a dirt removal window to empty dust particles inside of the tool. The durable stainless steel crank arm and belt clip make it easy to attach and store.

What We Like
Fast blade rewind saves time and effort
Easy to transport with caribiner attachment
Rust-resistant coating extends blade life
#TOP 10

Komelon SS125 Gripper 25-Foot Measuring Tape

SS125
Blue
7.6 m
Komelon SS125 Gripper 25-Foot Measuring Tape Cover
Komelon SS125 Gripper 25-Foot Stainless Steel Measuring Tape , Blue

Komelon SS125 Gripper 25-Foot Measuring Tape is equipped with all-metallic stainless steel components that enhance rust resistance. The tape has a large flared dual-end hook that holds the blade firmly in place to ensure accurate measurements. Double-sided printing provides precise marking and line drawing for convenience. The tape is impact resistant, thanks to its rubberized case. Additionally, the nylon-coated blade ensures maximum durability.

What We Like
Stainless steel components improve rust resistance
Large flared dual-end hook holds blade firmly in place for accurate measurements
Double-sided printing provides precise marking and line drawing
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a steel measuring tape used for?

These tapes are generally used for standardizing chains, measurements of construction work, etc. Steel tape measures have been manufactured since the 19th century, and are the most common type of tape measure used in construction. They are extremely durable and can measure up to 100 feet, depending on the tape measure.

2. Are steel tape measures accurate?

Rulers and Tape Measures A precision steel ruler, however, may be accurate to 0.001 in., depending on the length of the rule (see Figure 1). Longer rulers have larger tolerances. Tape measures follow the same tolerance guideline, though margins of error are larger.

3. Is fiberglass tape more accurate than steel tape?

While steel tapes won't stretch like fiberglass, they can be affected by extreme heat which will impact their level of accuracy.

4. What is the range size of steel tape?

Steel Tape is made of steel ribbon varying in width from 6 mm to 16 mm. It is available in lengths of 1, 2, 10, 30 and 50 meters.

Editor's Notes

During our steel measuring tape research, we found 24 steel measuring tape products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 96,070 customer reviews through our big data system to write the steel measuring tapes list. We found that most customers choose steel measuring tapes with an average price of $17.11.

The steel measuring tapes are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of steel measuring tapes, including Mr. Pen, CRAFTSMAN, ALLWIN, Lichamp, Lufkin. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 17,862 consumers with an average rating of 4.9.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.