If you’re building anything, hanging anything, or trying to make something look straight, cheap measuring tools can make a project way more frustrating than it needs to be.
I’ve redone projects because something was off by just enough to be annoying every single time I walked by it. Whether you’re hanging shelves, installing cabinet hardware, building cabinets, or planning a full DIY project, having the right tools makes everything go smoother.
Instead of listing just one favorite from each category, I wanted to break this down in a way that’s actually more helpful. These are the four measuring tool categories I think are worth buying first, along with my top three picks in each one.
The Best Measuring Tools for DIY Projects: My Top Picks by Category
My Top 3 Tape Measure Picks
What I look for in a tape measure:
- easy-to-read numbers
- fractional markings
- a solid lock
- a compact size that doesn’t feel bulky
- and one with a wider-reach for solo projects
If you only buy one, get this
Whether you’re hanging wallpaper or more complicated DIYs like adding wainscoting to stairs, you deserve a quality tape measure.
My Top 3 Stud Finder Picks
What I look for in a stud finder:
- consistent readings
- clear display or indicators
- wire detection for extra peace of mind
- something that doesn’t require ten passes just to work
This one is the best stud finders for hanging shelves or frames
Hanging anything on your walls? Get a stud finder. I couldn’t have done the below projects (custom walk-in closet and hiding my electrical panel) without it.
My Top 3 Level Picks
What Size Levels You Actually Need (and Why)
1. Mini Level
Use it for:
- picture frames
- cabinet hardware (try it and see if it’s you or the cabinet)
- Obviously tight spaces
2. 6″–12″ Level
Use it for:
- shelves
- window treatments
- most bathroom projects
3. 24″–48″ Level
Use it for:
- cabinets
- built-ins
- long shelves
- wallpaper
- flooring
If you’re hanging multiple items get this 2 pack
Need to make sure the deck you’re building slopes away from your house or just installing peel and stick tiles, you need a level.
My Top 3 Square Picks
What I use a square for most:
- marking cut lines (the fence/lip on a speed square
hooks onto the edge of your wood to keep your lines straight and accurate every time) - instead of freehanding with a circular saw or jigsaw, use the speed square as a fence
- Setting the distance for shelf pins or ensuring a drawer pull is centered exactly the same on five different drawers.
- Marking a straight line across sheet goods
- check that your corners are perfectly L-shaped (90 degrees) while you’re joining boards
If you only buy one get a speed square.
Squares are one of those tools that you think you don’t need until you use one. I used these to ensure every corner of my built-in bookcases and my laundry room projects were perfectly square.
Some Really Cool Innovative Measuring Tools
What I’ve Learned Using Cheap Measuring Tools
- Tape measures can bend really easily
- You can drill hundred of holes before you find the stud
- Pieces of a tool will fall off or snap off right in the middle of a project
- The same measurement can be completely different no matter what you did
Which Measuring Tools Should You Buy First?
If you’re just getting started and don’t want to buy everything at once, these are the four measuring tool categories I’d prioritize first:
- tape measure
- stud finder
- level
- square
Those four will cover a surprising number of projects. Once you have those basics, you can always add more specialized tools later.
And remember: “Measure twice, cut once.”
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