Measuring angles manually can take up time and lead to mistakes. Many people opt for a dependable speed square. A quality speed square can streamline tasks such as framing, roofing, and carpentry. These squares allow you to mark precise right angles before making cuts in woodworking.
Key Factors:
- Size: The size of the speed square you need depends on your work. For smaller tasks, a 7-inch speed square works fine. For bigger projects, go for a 12-inch one for more flexibility without moving the gauge constantly.
- Material: For reliability, choose a strong material like Aluminum, Steel, Metal, or plastic, especially for workshops or onsite work. Avoid glass speed squares.
- Gradations: This tool helps mark common, hip, valley, and jack rafters accurately. It’s useful for determining angles and making square cuts on boards. The graduation ranges include ⅛ and 1/16 inches.
We’ve chosen these options based on their features and a few more to give you the perfect choice. Explore our “Buying Guide” for the top-speed squares.
Best Speed Squares Table
| Speed Square | Size | Material | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|
| SWANSON Speed Square | 7 inches | Metal | Check On Amazon |
| WORKPRO Rafter Square Tool Set | 7 inches | Aluminum | Check On Amazon |
| DEWALT DWHT46031 Premium Rafter Square | 7 inches | Metal | Check On Amazon |
| Mr. Pen-Rafter Square | 7 inches | Steel | Check On Amazon |
| Johnson Level Square | 7 inches | Polystyrene | Check On Amazon |
| IRWIN Speed Square | 7 inches | Aluminum | Check On Amazon |
| VINCA ARLS-12 Rafter Carpenter | 12 inches | Aluminum | Check On Amazon |
| Mecurate Rafter Square | 7 inches | Aluminum | Check On Amazon |
| Milwaukee Magnetic Rafter Square | 7 inches | Plastic | Check On Amazon |
| Empire Level 2990 Magnum Rafter Square | 7½ inches | --- | Check On Amazon |
Best Speed Square Reviews
1. SWANSON Speed Square
Swanson Tool is a very renowned brand when it comes to instruments, tools, and accessories. Therefore, we have included Swanson Tool speed square at the top of our list.
Coming in 1st place, we have the Swanson Tool S0101 Speed Square. This is a standard size 7 inches speed square which also happens to be one of the most affordable options on our list today. Still, you will find multiple gradations on this speed square such as common, hip, valley, and jack rafters. Therefore, you can use this unit for a lot of applications with ease.
Along with the speed square, you will also receive a blue book for the tool, which is more of a comprehensive guide for making correct measurements with the tool. The Swanson Tool S0101 Speed Square is common to 5 different tools, making it a perfect option for every professional workman. It also has ¼ inch notches and diamond cutouts for easy cuts.
Best Features
- Diamond cutouts
- 7 inches speed square
- Made up of Metal
Pros
- One of the best options for this price range
- ¼ inch notches and diamond cuts are present
- Comes with a comprehensive guide
Cons
- Not the best option for large workpieces
2. WORKPRO Rafter Square and Combination Square Tool Set
WORKPRO is also a pretty popular brand for home accessories and tools that you may find helpful on a daily basis. The next option on our list is more of a set instead of just a speed square.
In the 2nd place, we have the WORKPRO Rafter Square and Combination Square Tool Set. This set includes an aluminum die-casted speed square as well as a zinc-alloy die-casted square ruler to offer an additional tool to your set. Since both of these units are made up of durable material, it won’t be problematic in terms of durability. The scale markings on these units are pretty clear and coated with a protective powder coating for longer resistance.
There are multiple gradations available on the WORKPRO Rafter Square and Combination Square Tool Set that combine the functionalities of framing square, try square, miter square, and even a protractor. As for the 12 inches ruler, there are 1/16”, 1/32”, and 1 mm markings. The set also includes a bubble level-checker that lets you draw perfectly straight lines on your workpiece.
Best Features
- 7 inches speed square
- Made up of Aluminum
- Comes with a level checker
Pros
- It is a set of 2 tools
- Both tools are made up of durable material
- Clear markings are provided on both units
Cons
- Not an ideal choice if you only need a speed square
3. DEWALT DWHT46031 Aluminum 7-inch Premium Rafter Square
We all know Dewalt as it is one of the top suppliers of power tools and accessories. Thus, the professional speed square designed by dewalt is definitely a great choice for professional tasks.
The 3rd option on our list of the best speed squares is coming from Dewalt. The DEWALT DWHT46031 is an aluminum speed square that is dark in color and features white gradations on the top. This creates a perfect contrast of color on the tool, making it easily readable for its users. This is also a 7 inches speed square that most users require for basic jobs.
As for the build quality, there is barely any competition when it comes to products designed by Dewalt. Therefore, you can rest assured that you are buying a speed square that will last you years and years of rugged usage. The gradations on this tool are painted as well as stamped so that they will last for quite a long time, even if you are using the tool outdoors.
Best Features
- 7 inches speed square
- Made up of Metal
- Painted and stamped gradations
Pros
- Budget option made by Dewalt
- Premium construction quality
- Gradations are easy to read
Cons
- Not the best option for basic tasks
4. Mr. Pen-Rafter Square, Metal Square
If you want a basic and cheaper alternative for a speed square that you won’t need frequently, the following option from Mr. Pen is probably perfect for you. It is the cheapest option we have on our list today.
The Mr. Pen-Rafter Square is a metallic speed square like the majority of options we have covered on our list of the best speed squares. Still, it costs less than half of what other premium options in the market will cost. It is also a 7 inches speed square which is preferred by a lot of enthusiasts and even professionals.
The gradations provided with the Mr. Pen-Rafter Speed Square is common, hip, valley, and jack rafters. Thus, it is also a versatile option present on this list. As for the material, the Mr. Pen- Rafter Speed Square is made up of heavy gauge billet aluminum alloy and it is produced by using a die-casting production method to make it strong and rigid. Even the markings on the Mr. Pen-Rafter Speed Square are pretty easy to read since they are white marking over a black body.
Best Features
- 7 inches speed square
- Made up of Steel
- Cheapest option for a speed square
Pros
- Multiple gradations are included
- Made up of durable material
- Markings are easy to read and accurate
Cons
- Diamond cutouts are not provided
5. Johnson Level & Tool RAS-1B Johnny Square
Johnson Level & Tool is also bringing a budget option to our picks for the best speed squares. This is also a basic option that you can use for your personal projects and DIY creations.
The Johnson Level & Tool RAS-1B Rafter Square is also available with the standard 7 inches size to make it suitable for a wide range of applications. This is basically a square layout tool that is CNC machined and die-casted to achieve perfect accuracy. Finally, the product is powder-coated that offers a low glare while you are working, making the tool easy to use.
The Johnson Level & Tool RAS-1B Rafter Square also has permanently die-casted graduations so that the marking of the scale won’t fade over time. Unlike most other options, the Johnson Level & Tool RAS-1B Rafter Square features a thicker edge which makes it a bit better for woodworking since you can use it alongside cutting tools to make cross cuts or angled cuts. You will also get diamond cutouts and standard straight slots on the Johnson Level & Tool RAS-1B Rafter Square.
Best Features
- 7 inches speed square
- Made up of Polystyrene
- CNC machined tool for perfection
Pros
- Features a thick edge to make it usable alongside a cutting tool
- Comparatively affordable option on this list
- Multiple slots and diamond cutout is present
Cons
- Markings are a bit harder to read
6. IRWIN Speed Square
Moving on to professional-grade speed squares, we have a great option coming from IRWIN Tools. The speed square from IRWIN Tools is one of the many great tools you will find in their product catalog.
The IRWIN Tools Rafter Square is a 7 inches speed square that has permanent deep stampings for durable usage. It is also one of the dark-colored options we have included on this list. As you may have noticed, light-colored markings are pretty easy to read over a dark background. The aluminum body of the IRWIN Tools Rafter Square is also pretty durable and resistant to environmental problems.
There are 4 scales included on the IRWIN Tools Rafter Square which are ⅛-, 1/10-, 1/12-, and 1/16- inch. The IRWIN Tools Rafter Square also features a rafter table, brace, and octagon scales to make it even more versatile in usage. Furthermore, there are 2 slots created in the body of the IRWIN Tools Rafter Square to offer some additional uses.
Best Features
- 7 inches speed square
- Made up of Aluminum
- Weather-resistant construction
Pros
- Features yellow marking on a dark background
- Permanent deep stampings
- Features 4 types of scales
Cons
- A bit expensive for a simple speed square
7. VINCA ARLS-12 Aluminum Rafter Carpenter
VINCA is also offering a premium choice on our list of the best speed squares. Unlike any other option on this list, this speed square from VINCA features the advantage of a large size.
The VINCA ARLS-12 is probably the best option we could find for professional and recurring applications. The best feature of this speed square is its size. Unlike all other options on this list, this is a 12-inch speed square that further widens its applicability. It also features multiple scales so that you can refer to the scale you use the most on your jobs.
Just like our last pick, the VINCA ARLS-12 features durable deep stampings with yellow markings to make the scale durable in terms of usage. The thick aluminum body on the other hand ensures its reliability for a very long time. The VINCA ARLS-12 also has a thick aluminum base so that you can use it with ultimate stability on your workpieces. You will get a rafter conversion table along with the VINCA ARLS-12.
Best Features
- 12 inches speed square
- Made up of Aluminum
- Comes with rafter conversion table
Pros
- Offers 4 different types of scale
- Largest option for a speed square
- Reliable build quality
Cons
- A bit expensive option compared to other choice
8. Mecurate Rafter Square
If you are sure that a 7 inch speed square is what you need, take a look at our next choice from Mecurate. It features both a reliable build quality as well as accuracy that you will notice while using the tool.
The Mecurate Rafter Square is yet another 7 inches tool that we are including on our list of the best speed squares. It is specifically designed for woodworking and carpentry and offers the features that you will need the most for these applications. It is also die-casted and CNC machined afterward to achieve perfect accuracy on the tool.
Thus, the Mecurate Rafter Square offers a lightweight design and is free from problems like external damage or corrosion. There are laser engraved markings on the scale of the Mecurate Rafter Square that are permanent and give you the accuracy level needed for professional jobs. The edges of the Mecurate Rafter Square are polished so that they aren’t hazardous for the user.
Best Features
- 7 inches speed square
- Made up of Aluminum
- Polished edges
Pros
- Made up of durable aluminum alloy
- Highly accurate laser engravings
- Standard 7 inches design
Cons
- Diamond cutout is small
9. Milwaukee 7 In. Magnetic Rafter Square
If you didn’t like any of the options that you have seen so far, make sure you pay attention to our next pick from Milwaukee. Even though it is a premium option, it is a pretty unique choice for a speed square.
The Milwaukee Rafter Square is also 7 inches in size like the rest of the options that we have seen so far. But unlike any other choice, the Milwaukee Rafter Square is a magnetic speed square that comes with a strong frame design and features notches for 1 to 6 inches, allowing you to rip lumber with ultimate accuracy.
This is also one of the most versatile options we have included on this list thanks to its features. As for the construction, this option is made up of durable plastic. So, it is much more lightweight and safer than other picks. You will also find a 1-inch cutout on the Milwaukee Rafter Square that helps you while you are propping a pipe on the site. The markings on the Milwaukee Rafter Square are laser-etched for the best visibility.
Best Features
- 7 inches speed square
- Made up of Plastic
- Laser-etched markings
Pros
- Premium choice for a speed square
- Comes with 1 to 6 inches cutouts
- Made up of durable frame
Cons
- Pretty expensive for basic applications
10. Empire Level 2990 Magnum Rafter Square
In the end, we will feature one more affordable speed square on our list in case you haven’t found one yet. This is a rather new arrival on the market made by Empire Level.
The Empire Level 2990 is our last pick for the best speed square on this list. It is also a heavy-duty speed square that comes in 7½ inches size, making it slightly larger than the rest of the options. It is made up of proprietary steel which is further heat-treated to make it harder than its competitors. There is a forged tip on the end of the Empire Level 2990 that gives you a secured grip for precise results.
The Empire Level 2990 belongs to the shockwave impact duty accessory lineup from Empire Level, a product lineup specifically designed for heavy-duty applications. Thus, you can count on the design integrity of the Empire Level 2990, and rest assured that it won’t bend or break on the site. And since it is made up of aluminum, it also won’t rust or corrode.
Best Features
- 7½ inches speed square
- Stamped conversion tables
- Specifically designed for heavy-duty applications
Pros
- Comes with a forged grip
- Solid aluminum design
- Thick edge lets you use it as a guide for cutting tools
Cons
- Markings are a bit difficult to read
Buying Guide For The Best Speed Squares
Buying a speed square is not that difficult of a task since there are already hundreds, if not thousands of options available on the market. But in order to find the perfect option that offers the results you desire, you need to put some effort into checking out their characteristics and overall quality to ensure their performance. You should also cross-check these parameters with your application to check if the product is compatible with your application.
Since it is pretty difficult to do that in an actual hardware workshop or departmental store, we have gathered a list of the best speed squares right here. And if you are not sure which qualities matter the most for such a tool, worry not. We have prepared this buying guide to guide you towards the perfect purchase option available in your budget. All you will have to do is check out this buying guide and carefully study these parameters before you make a decision and you are good to go.
1. Size
Even for a basic measurement tool such as a speed square, there are many options available that vary in terms of size, design, and ultimately, applicability. You can find compact options within 4 inches range, medium options with standard 7 inches sizes, and even large speed squares measuring up to 12 inches. This is a measurement of the longest side of the speed square or the hypotenuse so keep that in mind. So if you usually deal with large jobs, you should pick up an option that is large enough for your job.
Apart from the straight scale, you may also need the speed square for measuring angles. So having an onboard protractor would help. Some fancy options also have a bubble level-checker on each side to ensure whether the scale is perfectly straight or not. You may also find small slots of different shapes on the speed square that make the unit more versatile for different types of applications.
2. Material
When you are going to buy a set of critical tools such as speed square, it is very important to check their build quality. And for that, you have to check if they are made up of decent material or not. Amongst the best options, you will find metallic speed squares made up of materials like aluminum. And in the budget category, some options are pretty good even if they are made up of plastic.
Such options can be a great pick for DIY users who won’t be needing these gauges on a daily basis. But to be on the safe side, we will recommend you to go with a speed square set which is made up of aluminum. These speed squares are durable, long-lasting, and prone to external damage. Even if the scale is bent, it won’t break easily if it is made up of aluminum. As for a plastic speed square, it might be resistant to breaking, but it can get scratched and worn off on the edges, ultimately making it a bad option for the long term.
3. Accuracy
It is pretty difficult to analyze the accuracy level of the speed square since most units appear the same from the outside, a triangular scale with continuous marking over its edges. But, if you put together 2 different sets of speed squares and compare them side by side, the results may shock you. If there is an error of even 1 mm on a particular scale, it would lead to a difference of 1 cm within just 10 cm.
So, it is important to verify the accuracy of the speed square to ensure you are buying the perfect option for your job. Usually, brands that are popular for such tools and gauges calibrate the scale on their tools with standard scales to offer error-free measurement. So if you can’t check the accuracy of a speed square, simply make sure that it is coming from a reliable brand that has already sold a lot of options. If a speed square from a particular brand is currently famous in the market, it is probably an accurate and precise product.
4. Gradation Types
Opt for a speed square that offers multiple gradations, including degrees, pitch, and rise measurements. This versatility allows you to tackle a wide range of tasks without needing additional tools.
5. Scale Reliability
The scale or marking available on a speed square is probably the most important parameter of a unit and it is important to check if the scale on the speed square is reliable or not. Apart from the accuracy, you should also check if the scale markings would last for a long time or not. If the marking is printed, it will eventually wear off after a couple of months of usage. Even if it is not completely worn off, it will fade out, making it difficult to measure the distance precisely.
On the other hand, laser-etched marking on a speed square certainly lasts a very long time since they are practically grooved on the body of the speed square. Another important thing to check is the visibility of the scale-out of the box. Since the scale markings are dark, the color of the speed square itself should be light. This way, there can be a good contrast on the scale readings and it would become easier to mark precise points. Some spd squares also have a narrow edge which eliminates the possibility of human error and makes them even easier to use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: To put it simply, no. Not all speed squares are the same, despite the fact that most options look almost identical. You will start noticing these differences not long after you start using your speed square for your jobs. First of all, there are different sizes of speed squares available that are designed for different applications. Apart from that, there are additional features available on some speed squares such as level checker and diamond-cut slots which might be unavailable on cheaper alternatives.
Ans: When it comes to the material, it is important to check the material used to make the speed square. Usually, plastic options are preferred for lightweight tasks and DIY projects since they are cheaper and easy to replace if needed. And these options are also easy to use considering you are using them for basic applications. As for the steel speed squares, these options are designed for professional applications and should be preferred for serious jobs.
Ans: While you were looking at our options for the best speed squares, you must have noticed a lot of options that feature a couple of slots on the body. These diamond cutouts present on the speed squares are provided to get a marking base for notches or birdsmouth slots. You can also get a reference with these cutouts and create markings with reference to your previous cuts.
Conclusion
In woodworking and carpentry, one essential tool is a speed square. These tools help check for squareness, set cutting angles, measure small gaps, and more on wooden pieces. To help you choose the best one, we’ve compiled options suitable for all tasks. If you’re unsure how to choose, check our buying guide where we discuss important speed square properties.
We’ll also give some recommendations here for a quick decision.
- If you are looking at Budget, Mr. Pen-Rafter Square, Metal Square is a being affordable, it’s made of metal, ensuring good quality. This 7-inch square has clear white scale readings on the back.
- For a larger square, check out the VINCA ARLS-12 Aluminum Rafter Carpenter, the only 12-inch option on our list. It features multiple scales (⅛-, 1/10-, 1/12-, and 1/16-inches) with durable deep stampings and yellow markings.
- The WORKPRO Rafter Square and Combination Square Tool Set is good choice. The speed square is aluminum alloy, while the ruler is zinc alloy for durability. Plus, it includes a built-in level checker.
