Choosing a measuring wheel must be a piece of cake. After all, it’s only a wheel with a handle, right?
At least, that’s what you’re led to believe, till you set out to buy one. From wheel diameter to display types, there’s an extensive range of factors to consider when buying that perfect measuring wheel. And often, this can lead to a lot of confusion.
So, what is the correct way to choose the perfect measuring wheel?
To help answer that very question, we’ve gone ahead and reviewed 10 of the best measuring wheels that hit the market. And if you think that’s not enough, we also have a handy buyers’ guide that can help make the decision easier.
Therefore, without further ado, let’s dive in.
Best Measuring Wheels
Here’s the list of the 9 best measuring wheels of 2023.
1. Calculated Industries 6575 Measuring Wheel – Best for Precision and Stability
Calculated Industries is a well-known name in the measuring wheel circuit, and the 6575 model is the perfect package of form and function. Although a bit pricey compared to some of the other models mentioned on this list, we certainly recommend this one.
One of the first things that we liked about the 6575 model was the presence of a top-mounted control panel with a backlit display. The convenient positioning of the display eliminates the need for any bending or stooping to take readings. Also, the centerline design provides the required balance and stability.
Another notable feature is the ability to take readings in both US and Metric systems. Measurements can be made with a close-to-100% accuracy, and the foldable handle allows for secure storage and transportation. Add to that the sturdy build quality, and you’ve got a product that is just right.
There’s very little to complain about this rather exceptional product, and we guess this justifies the slightly hefty price tag. Nevertheless, we would like to mention that the position of the On/Clear button often results in accidental clearing of the counter. So this could’ve been positioned better.
What We Like
- Multiple measurement units
- Increased accuracy of calculation
- Simple and intuitive operation
- Reinforced construction
What We Don’t Like
- Cumbersome positioning of the On/Clear button
2. Keson MP401E Measuring Wheel – Best for Harsh Environments
Next up on our list is the MP401E model from Keson, a brand that needs no introduction. This particular model caught our eye with its ergonomic swan neck design, which provides better control to the user. Apart from that, we also noticed other nifty features that are listed below.
Best for operating in harsh work environments, the MP401E uses a magnetic pickup technology that guarantees disruption-free measurements. And, the durable steel frame makes this product one of the sturdiest electronic measuring wheels on the market. Additionally, what’s more, is that the device can be folded to ensure secure storage.
Perfect for those in the construction field, the design of this product makes it simple and comfortable to use. Also, the counter housing is waterproof so that you can clean the entire device with a damp cloth easily. Requiring low maintenance, this is one product that you can seriously consider.
We’d have preferred it if the device was a bit reasonably priced, but given the bevy of features that it offers, we can’t complain. Another thing, the instrument does not have a reverse function that allows backward measurements. The presence of that and this device would have full marks.
What We Like
- Ergonomic handle and grip
- Magnetic pickup
- Memory Storage
- Electronic wheel with steel frame
What We Don’t Like
- Doesn’t incorporate a reverse function
3. DuraWheel DW-PRO Distance Measuring Wheel – Best for Heavy-Duty Use
Available in a wide range of styles and sizes, this stellar product from DuraWheel justifies its price tag. Specially designed for heavy-duty professional use, the DW-Pro 68901 certainly delivers on all its promises. How? Let’s take a more in-depth look.
The very first thing that attracts your attention about the 68901 is its compact and futuristic design that perfectly blends style and substance. The wide stance folding kickstand makes handling effortless, while the pistol grip with embedded controls and trigger brake mechanism allows for seamless control.
On top of that, this product comes with an oval-shaped tube that only adds to its durability. Also, the convenience of the dual counter-clear button makes this product all the more convenient to use.
On the measurement front, we’d have liked it if the 68901 could measure in meters as well as feet. But it offers only the latter option, making the use of the device a bit less flexible. But hey, you can always use Google to make the conversion, right?
What We Like
- Professional, heavy-duty construction
- Pistol grip with trigger brake
- Easy to use controls
- Foldable handle design
What We Don’t Like
- Does not measure in meters
4. Zozen Collapsible Measuring Wheel – Best for Lightweight Portability
Yet another affordable offering, the Zozen collapsible measuring wheel, comes in an ergonomic and lightweight design. The 12-inch wheel offers unmatched versatility, and the collapsible mechanism ensures the simplicity of storage and transport.
Apart from the above-mentioned advantages, another big draw of this device is the pistol grip handle that makes operating it a breeze. The use of imperial units makes taking perfect measurements easier, and every measure made is accurately recorded by the mechanical distance counter.
Further, this product comes with a patented wrist protection technology that guarantees your hands don’t get hurt while using it. The wheel is heavy-duty and provides long-term usage, along with a tri-fold handle that can be easily collapsed for storage purposes. And last but certainly not least, the product comes with a cloth bag for quickly stowing it away.
Despite all the great features of this device, it does not incorporate a braking function. We didn’t mind having to stop the wheel manually, but others might have different preferences. However, we feel this one point is just not enough to draw attention away from the many wonderful features of this model.
What We Like
- Easy-to-store foldable design
- Outdoor and indoor Use
- Ergonomic and lightweight build
- 12-inch wheel diameter
What We Don’t Like
- Does not have a braking function
5. Keson MP401 Metal Frame Measuring Wheel
The MP401 from Keson incorporates an impressive metal design that provides center-line functionality with a great balance. One of the best-selling metal wheels in the market, this quality product flaunts remarkable features with a price tag to match.
Keson is a brand that can be relied upon, and the MP401 is no exception. The hardened steel frame of the device is specifically built to operate on difficult terrain. This makes it suitable for use in harsh construction environments where regular wheels would balk under the workload.
The durable rubber on the wheel protects it from excess wear and tear, thus increasing the longevity of the device. The large circumference provides excellent coverage, and the prominent mechanical counter makes taking readings a simple task. And we cannot fail to mention the accuracy and precision that every Keson device delivers.
Similar to the previous item, the MP401 also lacks the functionality to measure in meters as well as feet. Further, the counter doesn’t allow backward measurement due to the presence of a protective flap.
What We Like
- Durable design for handling rugged terrain
- Barrel clamp handle lock
- Spanning divets for leveling uneven ground
- Rugged rubber wheel
What We Don’t Like
- Only measures in feet
6. Komelon MK4512 Meter-Man Measuring Wheel
With a large diameter wheel and telescopic handle, the MK4512 from Komelon takes the hassle out of making measurements. Whether you need to measure the perimeter of any property or want to know the size of a large picture frame, this is the perfect device for both indoor and outdoor use.
Nobody likes a runaway wheel, and Komelon knows what the customers want. That’s why this product is designed with a telescopic handle and pistol grip that ensures you don’t lose control over the measurements. The larger diameter translates to faster measuring, and the metal kickstand and rubber counter-jacket guarantee long service.
Add to that the composite wheel tread for providing improved traction, and you’ve got a winner. Also, this product comes with a five-digit gear-driven counter that can count in reverse. And all this comes at so reasonable a price tag that you’ll find it hard to overlook.
In our opinion, we’d like the counters to be better calibrated; currently, they sometimes skip measurements. Consequently, this might introduce inconsistencies in the readings, which is not desirable at all. Apart from this, we found nothing else to complain about this device.
What We Like
- Larger diameter
- Telescopic handle with pistol grip
- Gear-driven counter that counts in reverse
- Durable rubber counter jacket
What We Don’t Like
- Counter gears skip measurements at times
7. Rolatape RT312 Measuring Wheel
We were taken in by the sleek aluminum build of this product from the get-go. Lightweight and durable, this device comes with a precision-molded tire over aluminum spokes that lend toughness to the device. And the modest price tag is another point that tilted our scales in favor of this product.
The best thing about the product is its heavy-duty construction, which ensures a long service life. The telescopic handle allows it to be packed and carried anywhere without much trouble, and the pistol grip provides maximum comfort during use. After rigorous testing, we’ve also concluded that this is one of the finest devices in the market in terms of measurement accuracy.
Apart from this, the long range of measurement up to 9999 feet helps in taking more extended readings without needing to reset the counter. We were particularly impressed by the smart-lock mechanism that prevents the wheel from turning when not in use. This helps to eliminate the problem of erroneous readings.
Though this is a rather insignificant thing, still we’d like to mention it for the sake of full disclosure. We found the kickstand to be a bit weak, as it failed to keep the device upright in the face of a strong breeze. So unless you plan to use it during a thunderstorm, this is the right product to go for.
What We Like
- Sturdy aluminum build
- Collapsible handle for easy storage
- Accurate and precise measurements
- Measures in both feet and inches
What We Don’t Like
- Kickstand doesn’t hold against heavy winds
8. AdirPro Digital Measuring Wheel
The compact and cordless design of this product is a real attention grabber, but that’s not all. With high-quality construction and a large wheel circumference, the AdirPro Digital Measuring Wheel is one of the best in the market.
Like the previous products on our list, this one includes the usual telescopic handle and kickstand. But what sets this one apart is the molded plastic wheel that ensures longevity. Its ergonomic design and prominent digital display allow easy measurements.
Also, it comes with a memory function that can recall and store up to five values and features an auto-shutoff technology. With a sturdy kickstand and weather-proof buttons, this product is undoubtedly a cut above the rest.
But the feature we’d like to mention is the product’s capability of measuring in the U.S. as well as metric systems. This makes it perfect for international projects, where metric measurements are required. Durable, versatile, and easy to use and store, this is one product you must seriously consider.
We’d like it if the upcoming models make changing the batteries a little less complex! Also, the handle sometimes ends up toppling the unit, and this can damage the LCD. So make sure to balance it against a wall when not in use.
What We Like
- Measures in both the US and metric system
- Large backlit LCD screen
- Power saving operation
- Cordless design
What We Don’t Like
- Not very accurate on uneven terrain
9. Crescent Lufkin Professional Measuring Wheel
The last product on our list is the PSMW48CL model from Lufkin, and this is most certainly not the least! With an affordable price tag and precise measurement capabilities, this product is certainly one to look out for.
Apart from the looks (the red-black combo looks excellent), this is a device that doesn’t compromise on the quality front. The centerline wheel makes for accurate measurements and impeccable balance, while the heavy-duty wheel wiper stops debris from building up.
The counter is glare-resistant and measures up to one inch short of 10,000 feet. Also, the folding handle makes it easy for the device to be stored and transported. Above all, the ergonomic design and the pistol grip handle make this a product worth buying.
Not much can be said against such a stellar product, but we’d like to mention two things. First, the wheel is plastic, which makes it inherently less sturdy than the metal equivalents. And the old pain-point, this one too can only measure in feet.
What We Like
- Glare-resistant counter
- Heavy-duty wheel wiper
- Easily resettable analog counter
- Accurate gear-based measuring system
What We Don’t Like
- Measures only in feet
Best Measuring Wheels Comparison Table
Product | Wheel Diameter | Foldable | Weight | Counter Reset | Additional Features |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Calculated Industries 6575 Measuring Wheel | 12.5 in | Yes | 3.7 lbs | Yes | Carrying Case |
Keson MP401E Measuring Wheel | 15.5 in | Yes | 3.6 lbs | Yes | Carrying Case, Stand, and Trigger Brake |
DuraWheel DW-PRO Distance Measuring Wheel | 12.5 in | Yes | 4.6 lbs | Yes | Carrying Case, Stand, and Trigger Brake |
Keson MP401 Metal Frame Measuring Wheel | 15.5 in | No | 3.5 lbs | Yes | – |
Scuddles Collapsible Measuring Wheel | 4 in | Yes | 2.2 lbs | Yes | Collapsible Handle and Carrying Case |
Zozen Collapsible Measuring Wheel | 6 in | Yes | 2.9 lbs | Yes | Collapsible Handle and Carrying Case |
Komelon MK4512 Meter-Man Measuring Wheel | 14.3 in | Yes | 3.3 lbs | Yes | – |
Rolatape RT312 Measuring Wheel | 12.5 in | Yes | 3.6 lbs | Yes | Carrying Case |
AdirPro Digital Measuring Wheel | 12.5 in | Yes | 4.4 lbs | Yes | Backlit Display, Memory Storage, and Carrying Case |
Crescent Lufkin Professional Measuring Wheel | 12.5 in | Yes | 4.4 lbs | Yes | Carrying Case |
Buying Guide For The Best Measuring Wheel
Well, now you know all about the top-rated measuring wheels of 2023…but what next? Surely all eleven can’t be bought? Of course not. The measuring wheel that you are going to buy depends mostly on the use it will be put to. To make the decision process easier, we’ve gone ahead and created this handy buyers’ guide that can help to narrow down the right choice.
The following are some of the essential factors to keep in mind while choosing the right measuring wheel. Read on to find out what they are.
Build Material
The first criterion for deciding on the right measuring wheel is the material with which it is built. For domestic uses such as measuring the garden perimeter or property, you can easily go for one of the plastic varieties, which costs less.
However, if the device is to be used in an industrial setting, such as a construction site, then make sure to go for a sturdier metallic variety. The aluminum variant from Rolatape on our list can be a suitable choice. Obviously, in this case, you’ll have to be prepared to shell out more.
Frequency of Use
The next factor that should decide the wheel type to go with is the frequency with which it is to be used. If you plan to use the device continuously for long intervals, then go for one of the brands such as Scuddles. This particular brand offers a high-quality rubber-lined wheel that can withstand the extreme wear and tear that is bound to come with repeated use. For sporadic-use purposes, any standard wheel from our list will suffice.
Units to be Measured
This is a significant factor. The units to be measured play a big role in the choice of wheel type. As you might have noticed, most of the wheels on our list measure in feet and inches. In case you need to measure in metric units, then consider the AdirPro or Calculated Industries models on our list.
What types of surfaces can a measuring wheel be used on?
Measuring wheels can be used on flat surfaces such as pavements, dirt paths, and grass. They can also be used on uneven surfaces such as gravel, sand, and snow.
How accurate are measuring wheels?
Measuring wheels are typically accurate up to 99.9%.
What are the different types of measuring wheels?
There are several different types of measuring wheels, including manual, electric, and telescopic wheels. Each type is designed for different uses, so it is important to consider your needs before choosing one.
How does a measuring wheel work?
A measuring wheel works by rolling along a surface and measuring the number of rotations it makes. The wheel is connected to a counter that records the number of rotations, which can then be converted into a linear distance.
Conclusion
When it comes to choosing the best measuring wheel, we have spared no effort in testing all of these products thoroughly, comparing their features, accuracy, durability, and ease of use. By evaluating various factors based on real-world usage, we’ve been able to narrow down the top products in the market.
Out of these 9 best measuring wheels, here are the top three expert recommendations. The Calculated Industries 6575 Measuring Wheel is an ideal option thanks to its top-mounted control panel with a backlit display, accuracy, and sturdy build quality. The Keson MP401E is a good option for those working in harsh environments, featuring magnetic pickup technology, waterproof counter housing, and a durable steel frame. The DuraWheel DW-PRO is the right choice if you’re looking for a heavy-duty, professional measuring wheel with a pistol grip, embedded controls, and an oval-shaped tube for added durability.
In conclusion, after a thorough examination and rigorous testing of these measuring wheels, we believe our recommendations have explored the options that cater to different needs, ranging from professional usage to lightweight and affordable choices. So go ahead and make an informed decision based on these expert recommendations, and you’ll have the best measuring wheel to complete your projects with accuracy and ease.
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