A standard tape measure may be a reliable and simple way to get what you need, but it has its limitations. You’ll have to find someone else to hold one end while you take measurements, which can be a hassle. Not to mention, the margin for error. With a laser tape measure, you can get accurate measurements every time. And it’s much easier to use. You won’t need someone else to help you, because it will have a built-in process that will allow you to do both calculations and triangulations. You can even measure distance, subtract, add, and do volume or area calculations.
What is a Laser Tape Measure?
Some people call it a “laser distance measure” or “laser distance meter,” but this type of laser measuring tape is a good choice for people who don’t want to deal with the hassles of a standard tape measure. It sends out laser pulses to a specific target while recording the time it takes for the beam to reflect back to the device. This process allows a laser tape measure to take accurate readings over longer distances. It also has built-in functions that will allow you to do the following:
- Adding and subtracting.
- Calculating area and volume.
- Triangulation.
This makes time-consuming calculations easier and more accurate. That’s why a good digital tape measure can be a great addition to your toolbox if you’re an architect, contractor, builder, or surveyor.
Some of the Best Laser Tape Measures on the Market
You can find a variety of laser tape measures with any number of features, but here are some of the top models that are currently on the market:
Bosch GLM165-40– With a 165-foot range, this multi-function laser tape measure can calculate distance, area, volume, and other indirect measurements at the push of a button. And the back-lit display is easy to read. Its compact size allows you to fit it inside your pocket, and it has an IP54 rating with regard to water and dust resistance.
Leica Disto X4– This model of laser measuring tape has a rugged design. In fact, it can withstand up to a 2-meter drop. With a 2-inch display with high resolution and 4x zoom, this device will allow you to easily zero in on your target. It also has an IP56 rating with regard to water and dust resistance.
Leica Disto E7100i– This is the smallest and lightest product in the Disto line, and it has Bluetooth Smart technology integrated into the device. With only four buttons, this digital tape measure is deceptively simple to use. So, it makes measuring distances and areas easier for everyone.
Leica Disto D2– Like the E7, this device comes with Bluetooth technology. It also has a bright white display and an ISO certified measuring engine with a 1/16” accuracy and a 300-foot measuring range. This laser tape measure has seven measuring modes, and it has an intuitive back-lit LCD display that fits inside a 4oz package. So, it’s small enough to put inside your pocket.
Leica Disto E7500i – This is a full-featured laser distance meter that comes with an industry exclusive and free Disto Sketch app, which you can use on your iPad and iPhone. It also supports Bluetooth Smart Ready 4.0, which is available on the iPad Retina, the Apple Mini, and the iPhone 4S/5.
If you’re looking for a place where you can find a broad selection of laser measuring tools, be sure to look at what we have at Engineer Supply.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a laser tape measure used for?
A digital tape measure can be used to calculate length, width, and height at a distance of about 650 feet, and they’re usually accurate to within an eighth of an inch when measuring a distance of up to 300 feet. A laser measuring tape is primarily used by the following:
- Contractors
- Insurance adjusters
- Architects
- Flooring professionals
This kind of tool can be used by anyone who does a lot of measuring, but homeowners can use a laser tape measure to take measurements around the house.
How accurate is a laser tape measure?
Most laser tape measures are accurate to within an eighth of an inch at a distance of about 300 feet. But some models can measure length, width, and height of up to about 650 feet. Feel free to look at what we have at Engineer Supply, so you can find a tool that will meet your specific needs.
Can I use a laser tape measure outdoors?
Any digital tape measure can be used outdoors, but it might be a proverbial hit and miss out in the field. A laser distance meter works by sending out a laser dot, which is reflected off the surface so the device can calculate the distance of the desired point. The device measures where the laser dot hits the surface. So in order to know what you’re measuring, you’ll need to be able to see the dot.
What's the best laser tape measure?
You want to find a laser measuring tape that will meet your specific needs. And at Engineer Supply, we have a broad selection from some of the best brands in the industry. Be sure to look at what we have in our store, so you can find a tool that’s right for you!
Where can I buy a quality laser tape measure?
If you’re looking for one of the best places to find a broad selection of laser measuring tools that will allow you to get the results you need quickly, you can find it at Engineer Supply. We have some of the best laser tape measures in the industry, and we can offer them to you at a reasonable price. Feel free to look at what we have in stock, so you can find a product that will meet your specific needs.