A tape measure or measuring tape is a flexible ruler used to measure length or distance.
Plastic tape measure (cm)
Manually reeled tape measure
Self-retracting metal tape measure (US customary)
Measuring tape capable of measuring down to 1⁄32 in (0.794 mm)
A ruler, sometimes called a rule, scale or a line gauge, is an instrument used to make length measurements, whereby a user estimates a length by reading from a series of markings called "rules" along an edge of the device. Commonly the instrument is rigid and the edge itself is a straightedge, which additionally allows one to draw straight lines. Some rulers, such as cloth or paper tape measures, are non-rigid. Specialty rulers exist that have flexible edges that retain a chosen shape; these find use in sewing, arts, and crafts.
A variety of rulers
Retractable flexible rule or tape measure
A closeup of a steel ruler
Bronze ruler. Han dynasty, 206 BC – 220 AD. Excavated in Zichang County, China