The DeWalt Lighted Tape Measure Sets The Bar High For Visibility In Low Light Conditions
Tape measures are crucial to nearly every job but they don’t always hold up over time as well as we’d like. DeWalt ToughSeries tape measures are built to survive the rigors of professional jobsites, but they’ve taken things one step further. Today, we have our hands on the DeWalt Lighted Tape Measure that offers the features you already love plus one you probably didn’t expect.
DeWalt Lighted Tape Measure Performance
- Tape Reach: 17 ft.
- Tape Stand Out: 13-1/2 ft.
- Max Drop Height: 100 ft.
- LED Runtime: 3 hrs.
- LED Auto-Shutoff: 60 sec.
The DeWalt lighted tape measure has a 1.1-inch wide blade that is capable of maintaining a 13 1/2-foot standout with a total reach of 17 feet with one hand supporting the blade. In terms of durability, DeWalt tells us that this tape measure is capable of withstanding drops of up to 100 feet onto compacted earth.
DeWalt’s hook design is pretty standard but it is compatible with the removable magnet you see on the other ToughSeries tapes.
The big surprise with this tape measure is the LED light on the front. Once you press the power button, the bright white light perfectly illuminates the vivid yellow tape, making it very easy to read. The light has a total runtime of 3 hours on a single charge and there’s an auto-shutoff after 60 seconds. That may not seem like much battery life, but unless you work in a mine shaft, we reckon the charge will last you quite a while.
When it’s time to charge the battery, simply plug in the included micro-USB charging cord and wait for the charging light to shine solid red, indicating a full battery.
DeWalt Lighted Tape Measure Design Notes
- Model: DeWalt DWHT35625S
- Tape Length: 25 ft.
- Blade Width: 1.1 in.
- Rip-Shield Coating: 6 in.
- Length: 3-1/2 in.
- Charging Port: Micro-USB
- Weight: 1.25 lbs.
As a member of DeWalt’s ToughSeries lineup, there is an assumed expectation of durability and longevity. The tape’s housing is draped in a textured rubber overmold that protects key features and provides excellent grip points while you’re working.
The DeWalt lighted tape measure’s side profile is pretty standard but it is slightly wider than average. Regardless, it fits well in my medium-sized hands and weighs a mere 1.25 pounds.
The blade itself features a thin coating to help it last longer and the first 6 inches has a rip-shield coating for added durability. Furthermore, the blade is printed on both sides so you can take measurements on the floor or overhead with ease.
DeWalt Lighted Tape Measure Price
The DeWalt Lighted Tape Measure retails for $29.99 and comes with micro-USB charging cord and a limited lifetime warranty on the tape and a 1-year electronics warranty.
The Bottom Line
As tape measures go, DeWalt did a great job with the design of the ToughSeries Lighted Tape Measure. The LED light is excellent for working in low light conditions and really is a value-add to this tool. The visibility and durability are outstanding and its smooth operation makes this tape very comfortable for all-day use. Personally, I would prefer a larger hook for easier measuring at odd angles, but overall, this tape measure is a great addition to anyone’s tool collection.
