The new school year might be quite challenging for kids and parents since they always need to spend some time together searching for proper stationery items. However, a seemingly simple thing such as a ruler might raise lots of questions, especially which one is the best ruler. Because of this, WoWPencils has created a complete review of these devices in order to give you more information about them so you can choose the one you like without wasting time. By the way, WoWPencils has saved you more than 53 hours. Let’s step through it.
Top Rulers Brands That Are Worth Your Attention
| Rank | Review | Name | Price | Type of Material | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | | hand2mind UltraFlex® SAFE-T® | Plastic | 9.9 | |
| 2 | | eBoot | Stainless steel | 9.8 | |
| 3 | | Mr.Pen | Stainless steel | 9.7 | |
| 4 | | Bazic | Plastic | 9.5 | |
| 5 | | WestcottⓇ | Stainless steel | 9.4 | |
| 6 | | Offidea | Stainless steel | 9.3 | |
| 7 | | Outus | Wood | 9.1 | |
| 8 | | Midori | Aluminium | 9.0 | |
| 9 | | Empire Level | Stainless steel | 8.9 | |
| 10 | | Fairgate | Aluminium, plastic | 8.8 | |
| 11 | | WestcottⓇ Junior T-Square | Plastic | 8.5 | |
| 12 | | Alvin | Acrylic | 8.4 |
hand2mind UltraFlex® SAFE-T®: Best Ruler Ever
Everybody wants to exclude all the boring things from their life. Thus, manufacturers constantly search for new tendencies and try to implement them in their products. There is no exception to the stationery items, particularly rulers.
Thus, buying a set of 24 rulers, you will get only positive emotions. The reason is that each ruler is made of plastic of different color, but they remain to be transparent. This feature is quite useful, especially if you need to make a line, checking the one that is covered by the ruler.
In addition, the 2 measuring scales will help students in different cases, for example, to check what 1 inch is equal to in centimeters, and vice versa. And, as you might have guessed, the length of it is 12 inches, or 30 cm.
Another feature that explains the brand name Safe-T Ruler is that it’s totally safe because of its flexibility. It means that, unlike the majority of plastic rulers, this one doesn’t break but bends. Thus, calm down if your child is playing with it – it is shatter resistant!
- It’s transparent
- It has a groove in the middle for comfortable holding
- It’s durable
- The ruler is of positive color
- The markings don’t smear or smudge off
- The corners may slightly snap
- The ruler has a dyeing effect
eBoot: Good Stainless Steel Ruler
There is nothing more durable than metal or stainless steel. Thus, the rulers made of spring steel are considered to be eternal and the most correct since their marking will never disappear.
The eBoot set of rulers consists of 2 pieces, and one of them is twice longer than another Both tools have two measurements: inches and centimeters; the first one is 12 inсhes, or 30 cm long, and the other one is 6 inches, or 15 cm long.
At the back of both rulers, you can see the conversion table of Metric and Imperial Graduation.
One of the sides has a round curve and a hole in the middle of it. The other end has the right corners. The thickness of both rulers is identical and equals 0.035 inches that is enough to be safe and not to cause any cuts on the skin while using it.
- The measurement markings will never disappear because they are recessed
- It’s durable
- The conversion table of measurements is at the back
- The “0” point starts at the bottom of the ruler
- The longer ruler may come slightly bowed
- There is a spelling mistake at the back
Mr.Pen: Top Straight Edge Ruler
Do you need a set of various rulers for office so one of them can be a perfect fit in a particular case? The most appropriate set is presented by Mr. Pen. It includes 4 items of different sizes: the smallest – 6 inches, medium – 8 and 12 inches, and the longest is 14 inches. Three of them have a round ending with a hole in the middle, and the longest one has straight edges.
Each ruler has 2 measuring scales: metric and imperial. However, the distinguishing feature is that each scale has additional notches for 1/64 inches and 1/20 centimeters. Thus, users will be comfortable to count the necessary length. In addition, they will also receive some prompts in the conversion table right at the back of each instrument.
Overall, these features along with the durability of material make these rulers unrepeatable option for those who deal with math, drafting and other kinds of subjects where accuracy is highly valued. And by the way, for those who are afraid of accidental cut – it’s almost impossible since the thickness of each ruler (0.035 in), in addition to their rounded corners, doesn’t allow you to do that.
- The hole makes possible to hang them on a peg board
- The tools along with markings on them are durable
- There are conversion tables at the back
- They come in an individual plastic case
- They are pretty cheap
- They might be uncomfortable for those who often use the metric measuring system since it’s marked not at the top
- They may come bowed and won’t lay down straight
Bazic: Cool for School
“Back to school” means everything new, so why don’t you treat yourself with new school tools, especially if they are so colorful that definitely will make you feel much happier? By the way, BAZIC Jeweltones speak for themselves – they are fancy as jewels are.
In fact, this is a set of 4 plastic rulers, and each of them is of individual color. It doesn’t mean that you will use all of them at the same time, but changing them every day may positively influence your mood.
However, this is not their only purpose; they are nice for children’s crafts, and they will help to read, too. Moreover, each of them has special holes so they can be held by a binder folder. Besides, their length is 12 inches each, and thus these rulers are good even for producing long and consistent lines that are usually quite a big challenge for kids in primary school.
You also should know that the “0” point starts not right at the beginning of the ruler but rather at ⅛ inch space between the edge of the measuring tool and the first marking.
- They are transparent, so it’s easy to see everything underneath the ruler
- There are 2 measuring systems that start from left to right
- They are quite affordable
- The measurement markings are hardly seen on a purple ruler
- They are fragile
WestcottⓇ: Great for Office
If you are looking for only one stainless steel ruler, then, perhaps, the most universal would be a measuring tool from Westcott. It is only 6 inches long, but still, it’s enough for the majority of projects. This item is flexible but warp-free, so a potential user doesn’t need to think about how to make it straight after each use.
As the majority of rulers, this one has dual measure: in inches and centimeters. The scale in inches has 1/16 markings, while the metric one has millimeter markings. Both of them start from left to right, but they don’t depend on each other. Thus, turning upside down the ruler, there will be only one scale available from left to right, while the other one is a counter.
The zest of this device is its anti-slip surface at the back thanks to the special cork cover. In addition, there is not only a silver color available. There is a variety of colors, but, unfortunately, a potential user will receive only random color.
- The magnets stick to the metal side
- It has a comfortable size that makes it portable
- The device itself and the markings on it are durable
- It doesn’t slide over the surface
- At the back of the device, there is a sticker that is hard to remove without destroying the cork cover
- The sides may be uneven, and thus they may produce wavy lines
Offidea: Best Machinist Ruler
For more precise work, you need to have an appropriate accurate tool. In particular, a machinist ruler is a terrific find for those who work with tiny details. Actually, this is a set of 2 rulers, and both of them are completely different. One of them has imperial measurements on both edges, and the other one shows metric units. Moreover, they have 1/64 inch markings and 1/20 centimeter markings as well. For more comfort, both scales start from the edge, in other words, “0” is an edge of the ruler. Meanwhile, their total length is 6 inches, which is nice for taking them with you.
Both devices are made of stainless steel. Their width is 0.75” and thickness is 0.035” that is enough not to be as sharp as a knife. All the markings are recessed and well seen, so your eyes will never feel tired or need to focus by straining.
As an additional feature, both of them come wrapped in an individual plastic case, which nicely protects them.
- They are durable
- They have the ideal size and design for more accurate projects
- They come in protective plastic cases
- It’s firm enough to hold the shape and not to bend
- The corners are really sharp
- The markings are slightly lighter in the middle
Outus: Fine Wooden Rulers
Eco-friendly devices are always highly valued. Thus, instead of a plastic ruler, there come tools made from natural materials such as wood. Outus wooden rulers are made of hard wood that will never split along because it’s quite a durable material. Moreover, you will never receive any splinters thanks to their smooth surface. The shape adds more comfort while using it since there is a double bevel from both sides. This is quite a convenient decision for holding it firmly without any accidental sliding aside.
Outus supplies a pack of 12 wooden rulers. Each of them has 2 measuring scales: in inches and centimeters. The additional dividing inches and centimeters into fractions and millimeters accordingly would be a convenient feature for those who study to count or at least check the accuracy of measures. For example, the job usually done by a designer is full of such measuring actions. In addition, if something happens with one of the rulers, you may replace it with another one.
- There are 12 measuring instruments in the pack to replace the lost one
- They are comfortable to hold
- The price is relatively low
- They are made of natural material
- They get stained quite quickly
- The markings may be smudged off
Midori: Cool Aluminium Ruler
You might never find a sleeker design than in the Midori ruler. In fact, this is a construction of 2 aluminum rulers that are joined together with a screw that serves as a protractor. There is only the metric measuring system; thus, joining together two pieces in one line, the maximum length will be 30 cm. However, both of them can be used separately by unscrewing the protractor.
By the way, as you might have guessed, the protractor is not only for making one long ruler from 2 pieces. Indeed, this instrument has angle markings, so the device can measure and build an angle or even a triangle you want. And folding these two pieces together allows you to put it in a pencil case.
The particular sample is black, however, the manufacturer produces white tools, too.
- 2 in 1: a protractor and a ruler
- It folds smoothly
- The measurement markings are engraved
- It’s durable and damage-resistant
- There is an additional measuring scale on the inner side of the ruler for accurate angle drawing
- It’s lightweight
- It has no imperial measuring scale
- The swivel mechanism is quite loose
Empire Level: Perfect for Kitchen
If you are looking for not a short ruler but a long one, then you need to see the Empire Level 18-inch ruler. For this length, the device has to be rigid enough not to bend. Thus, it’s made of stainless steel. This is quite an awesome device for drawing, measuring long details or even being a kitchen helper.
By the way, it doesn’t matter what measuring system you use since there are 2 scales with markings in inches and centimeters. And if you need to use it in a garage, there is a hole for hanging it on a peg board. Thus, it will always be well seen.
- It’s perfect for baking
- It’s sturdy enough
- The markings are etched and well seen
- It’s durable
- There is some black space from both sides of measuring scale
- There is no cork backing, and thus the device slides over the surface while using it
Fairgate: Excellent Set of Fashion Design Rulers
Fashion always dictates the new shapes, so tailors have to follow these trends and produce high-quality products. Thus, there are lots of devices that make cutting out and tailoring much easier. In particular, there is a fashion design ruler set from the Fairgate company.
The set includes 4 rulers. Three of them are made of aluminium and one is from clear plastic. However, each has its own shape: straight, right-angled, curved and a ruler that resembles boomerang. The latter has a hole at the end, so it can be hung up. One of the things that should be noticed is that the set has only the metric measuring system. Thus, if you are not familiar with this, you should get acquainted with or constantly check the convertion table.
- They are durable
- Full set of 4 items
- They are of excellent price
- The edges are sharp
- There is only the metric measuring system
WestcottⓇ Junior T-Square: Excellent T-Shaped Ruler
A T-shaped ruler is a very useful device, especially for those who just start learning to draw the lines. In fact, thanks to special “wings” that form the top of “T”, they are really nice to track the line whether it’s parallel to the surface alignment.
Moreover, the device is totally transparent, so you can check everything that is covered by it. In addition, there are 2 measuring scales: metric and imperial, and both of them are very comfortable to use.
For extra comfortable using, there is a hole at the end of the ruler so you can hang it on a peg and take it when it’s necessary, leaving more space on the desktop.
- It’s transparent
- “Wings” allow to track whether the ruler is perpendicular to the paper edge
- There is a hole for hanging a ruler onto a peg board
- The price is really low
- It’s quite flimsy
- The marking tends to smear off
Alvin: Good Triangle Shaped Ruler
A triangular ruler is rightly considered the universal tool It can work as a regular ruler and helps to draw the common angles: right, blunt or acute (30, 45, 60, 90 degrees on 2 triangles). This is an amazing replacement for a protractor and a traditional ruler simultaneously.
Besides, each triangle has the imperial measuring scale with 16th graduations. Both of them are made of transparent plastic, so everything underneath is clearly seen. Moreover, both triangles have centers for comfortable placement of the finger there.
- The devices replace a ruler and a protractor
- They are made of transparent plastic
- Well-seen number increments
- They are too fragile
- They are difficult to transport
| Review | Name | Type of Material |
|---|---|---|
| Learning Resources SAFE-TⓇ | Plastic |
| EatFishinSea | Brass |
| OnDisplay | Acrylic |
Learning Resources SAFE-TⓇ: Best Angle Ruler
There is an ideal device from Safe-T brand. This is a 2-in-1 ruler that measures lines and angles. In fact, this construction consists of 2 rulers joined together with a metal circle, and in the corner, there appears a protractor. All the details are transparent, so in case you cover something with it, you will clearly see the underneath. The plastic is shatter resistant, so don’t be afraid when you drop it.
The ruler has 2 measuring systems: metric and imperial that is the US standard. The maximum is 12 inches, or 30 cm. As for the protractor, there is a scale of 360 degrees. And if you need to draw a line of an angle, there are special holes in the middle of both rulers.
- The device combines a ruler and a protractor
- It’s totally transparent
- It’s shatter resistant
- It’s durable, and the markings stay for a long time
- It’s lightweight
- The protractor is not accurate
- It doesn’t hold any shape
EatFishinSea: Great Brass Ruler
Perhaps, the most unique ruler in this review is made of brass. It’s easy to identify by color – it has a slightly red shade. However, this type of metal makes this ruler more durable, sturdy and rust-resistant.
In general, it doesn’t have a big difference between regular plastic or stainless steel rulers. It does have 2 measuring scales: in inches and centimeters. Its size is relatively small, but still, it’s comfortable to carry with you or keep it in a notebook as a bookmark. By the way, there is a hole at the end and a piece of leather lace, which you can stick to the notebook. This way, you will never lose it.
- It’s made of brass
- It has a vintage look
- It’s sturdy enough not to bend
- It’s portable
- It’s durable
- The etched markings may produce an inconsistent line
- It tends to oxidize: it changes color and may stain paper where it’s stored
OnDisplay: Best with Golden Rule Imprinting
The last ruler in this review doesn’t resemble any of the previous ones. The Golden Rule ruler is unique, too. At first glance, you might think that it’s made of glass but it’s not, since it’s made of acrylic and has the unusual shape of a bar.
However, it does have some usual features, too. In particular, there are two measuring scales: metric and imperial. The maximum point is 12 inches, or 30 centimeters. All the markings along with the brand logo are metallic printing, and thus they are quite durable.
- Durable markings
- 2 systems of measurement
- It’s transparent
- Nice as an element of decor
- It’s quite difficult to use
Additional Brands of Rulers
The above-mentioned brands of rulers are only some of those which should be paid attention to. However, luckily, there are lots of other rulers that are also worth being noticed. For example, the stationery from Muji, Tiffany & Co, Lindlund and Hay might also be interesting for you as a potential owner of a ruler. Thus, check these brands before you make the final decision.
Guide
You may also need some specific recommendations on how to choose the best ruler. Here are some points you should pay attention to when you check each item.
FAQ
It’s quite obvious that there is not enough information about rulers in the guide since it’s designed only to mention particular details when you are selecting the particular tool. However, you may also have more questions. That is why there is a section of frequently asked questions by potential users. Perhaps, you will find the answer to your question.
What Is a Ruler ??
A ruler is also known as a line gauge or rule. This is a handy tool for measuring, drawing lines and angles.
How to Read a Ruler?
There are some basic things you should know before reading a ruler. First is that there can be 2 measuring scales: metric and imperial, where metric measures are in centimeters and imperial – in inches. There are some intermediate markings between the markings of an inch and a centimeter: fractions and decimal division accordingly.
Usually, the ruler is 12 inches long (30 cm) which is equal to 1 foot. Each inch is subdivided into 16 fractions.
The next thing you should always remember is the basic principle: the longer the marking, the bigger the measuring point is. For example, the longest marking denotes the inch twice smaller marking denotes twice less fraction. By the way, don’t forget that the measuring scale starts from left to right.
Thus, for example, searching for 4.3 inches on a ruler, you need to find 4 and 5 inches. Between them, there is a middle line that is slightly smaller than markings indicating inch. This line is equal to 4.5 inches. If you shift your glance to left and count 2 markings, there are 4.3 inches.
And if you want to convert inches to centimeters, then you can use a conversion table for more accurate results.
How to Use a Ruler?
In fact, a ruler is quite a useful thing, and there are lots of types in the world. The most common is a regular ruler that measures the lines. However, there can also be a seamstress’s ? ruler that is designed to measure the seams or the girth of the body part. That is why it’s flexible and resembles a piece of ribbon.
You might also have seen a carpenter’s ruler that unfolds up to 6 feet, and when you don’t need it anymore, you can fold it, and it will become several times shorter. Usually it’s made of wood. By the way, the measuring tape can also be used by carpenters. The main difference is that it’s more compact since the tape rolls up into a special plastic shell.
In addition, you might also be curious about the architect’s ruler that is quite unusual. Instead of measuring scale, there are some markings that help to measure the scale ratio rather than length, for example, 1:12, 1:10, etc.
What Are the Kinds of Ruler?
Taking into account that a ruler is applied for various purposes, there appeared some devices with extended features that help in a particular case. The most common types of rulers are the following:
- A desktop ruler that is regularly used by the majority of students ??. It measures the length and helps to draw straight lines.
- Steel rulers are more universal since they can be used not only by students but, for example, carpenters. These rulers are considered to be more accurate because of their etched markings and thinness of the material.
- The alternative type of a regular ruler is a yardstick that helps to measure the yard. It comes 36 inches long.
- A seamstress’s tape is a flexible ruler usually used by a tailor for measuring the girth of body parts.
- A tape measure resembles the seamstress tape, but because it is made of a thin slice of metal, it’s rigid but still quite flexible to be used, let’s say, in corners. In addition, it rolls up into a plastic case that protects the instrument and makes it quite portable.
- A carpenter’s ruler is also portable. However, it’s usually made of wood, and the maximum length it can fold up to is about 6 inches. However, unfolding it, a user will receive a long straight ruler. Usually, it is about 6 feet long.
- An architect’s ruler has a very unusual shape: it has 3 sides, and each of them has 2 measuring scales. It’s used to measure the scale ratio and make architectural drawings.
Where to Buy Ruler ??
Luckily, nowadays there is a huge amount of places where the stationery is available to test and buy. However, you might have noticed that they may cost differently. Of course, you can buy them wherever you want, but you should know that you don’t need to spend much time walking around the markets since you can order them on Amazon, Walmart, eBay just in few clicks.
Interesting Facts
Every stationery tool has its own history of how it appeared and what changes were done during its existence. And a ruler is no exception; it does have its own fascinating story and interesting facts. You are welcome to learn a little bit more about this regular tool.
- The first measuring rod was found by Eckhard Unger, a German assyriologist. The rod was approximately made in 2650 BC, and it was found in Nippur. The rod actually had the shape of a bar and was made of copper.
- The ivory rulers were made by Indus Valley Civilization approximately in 1500 BC.
- The first ruler with 1/16 inch fractional division markings is dated 2400 BC.
- The more accurate ruler with 1.32 inch (equal to 33.5 mm) markings was found in Mohenjo-Daro. The bricks had dimensions aliquot to the units on the ruler.
- The first folding ruler was invented by Anton Ullrich in 1851.
- Later in 1902, there was created a flexible ruler by Frank Hunt.
- Most countries use the metric measuring system, while the USA, Liberia, South Yemen use the imperial or English measuring system.
Conclusion
It may seem there is nothing difficult to find a proper ruler. However, when you open the website and see lots of types and sets of rulers there, you may face a huge challenge in choosing one of these. For this reason, WoWPencils has created a complete review of this stationery tool that allows you to save your time. Hopefully, the review of the best rulers was quite comprehensive and extended in order to show you how to select them and what things you should keep in mind before you purchase.
Stay tuned with WoWPencils, and you will be always kept updated about the most appropriate stationery items.
References
- Ruler – https://en.wikipedia.org/
- How to Use a Ruler – https://www.wikihow.com/
- How to Read a Ruler – https://www.mathatube.com/
- Ruler Information, Uses, and Types – https://www.inchcalculator.com/
- 12 Revealing Facts About Rulers – http://www.chicagonow.com/