Best Apps to Measure a Room or Furniture Using Your Mobile Phone Camera
Measuring rooms and furniture has never been easier, thanks to the power of modern smartphones. Gone are the days of wrestling with tape measures or guessing dimensions—now, you can use your mobile phone’s camera to get accurate measurements in seconds. Whether you’re planning a home renovation, shopping for new furniture, or just curious about the size of a space, these apps leverage augmented reality (AR) and advanced camera technology to simplify the process.
In this article, we’ll explore the best measurement apps available for both Android and iOS devices. We’ll cover everything from simple digital rulers to sophisticated AR tools that can map entire rooms. Plus, we’ll share practical tips on how to use these apps effectively and ensure your measurements are as precise as possible. Let’s get started!
Why Use Mobile Apps for Measuring Rooms and Furniture?
Before we jump into the apps, let’s talk about why these tools are game-changers. Traditional measuring methods can be clunky and imprecise, especially for large spaces or oddly shaped furniture. Mobile measurement apps bring a host of benefits to the table:
- Convenience: Your phone is always in your pocket—no need to lug around extra tools.
- Accuracy: Many apps use AR technology to deliver surprisingly precise results.
- Versatility: Measure anything from a tiny shelf to an entire room.
- Visualization: Some even create 3D models or floor plans, helping you picture your space in new ways.
Whether you’re a homeowner, interior designer, or DIY enthusiast, these apps can save you time and hassle. Now, let’s check out the top apps that make measuring with your phone a reality.
Top Apps for Measuring Rooms and Furniture
Here’s a handpicked list of the best measurement apps for Android and iOS, each with unique features to fit different needs. We’ve included links to their official sites or app stores so you can download them easily.
1. Measure by Apple (iOS)
- Overview: Apple’s Measure app comes pre-installed on iPhones and iPads running iOS 12 or later. It uses AR to measure objects and spaces effortlessly.
- How It Works: Point your camera at an object, and the app automatically detects surfaces. Tap to set start and end points, and you’ve got your measurement.
- Unique Features:
- Automatically recognizes rectangular objects.
- Includes a built-in level tool to check if surfaces are even.
- Switches between imperial and metric units with ease.
- Best For: Quick, everyday measurements like furniture or small areas.
- Download: Measure on the App Store
Source: Apple
2. Google Measure (Android)
- Overview: Google’s Measure app transforms your Android phone into a virtual tape measure using AR technology.
- How It Works: Aim your camera at a surface, and the app overlays a digital ruler. Measure distances, heights, or areas with a few taps.
- Unique Features:
- Supports both metric and imperial units.
- Measures vertical and horizontal distances.
- Easy calibration for improved accuracy.
- Best For: Android users looking for a simple measurement tool.
- Download: Google Measure on Google Play
Source: Google ARCore
3. ARPlan 3D (Android & iOS)
- Overview: ARPlan 3D goes beyond basic measurements, offering the ability to create detailed 3D floor plans.
- How It Works: Use your phone’s camera to measure walls, doors, and windows. The app then builds a 3D model of your space.
- Unique Features:
- Automatically calculates perimeter, floor area, and wall area.
- Exports plans as PDF, JPG, or DXF files.
- Great for estimating renovation materials.
- Best For: Homeowners planning upgrades or professionals needing precise layouts.
- Download: ARPlan 3D on Google Play | ARPlan 3D on the App Store
Source: ARPlan 3D
4. Magicplan (Android & iOS)
- Overview: Magicplan is a professional-grade app designed to create detailed floor plans and measure rooms with ease.
- How It Works: Snap photos of your space, and the app detects walls, corners, and objects to generate accurate measurements.
- Unique Features:
- Add furniture, appliances, and 3D models to your plans.
- Export in multiple formats like PDF and CAD.
- Perfect for real estate agents, designers, and contractors.
- Best For: Users needing comprehensive, customizable floor plans.
- Download: Magicplan on Google Play | Magicplan on the App Store
Source: Magicplan
5. RoomScan Pro (iOS)
- Overview: RoomScan Pro offers a unique, hands-free way to measure rooms by tapping your phone against walls.
- How It Works: Touch your device to each wall in the room, and the app uses sensors to calculate dimensions.
- Unique Features:
- Creates detailed floor plans with precise measurements.
- Handles irregular room shapes and obstacles.
- Links multiple rooms into a single plan.
- Best For: iOS users who want an intuitive room-measuring method.
- Download: RoomScan Pro on the App Store
Source: Locometric
6. CamToPlan (Android & iOS)
- Overview: CamToPlan is an AR app that measures distances, areas, and creates floor plans with your phone’s camera.
- How It Works: Trace along floors, walls, or furniture with your camera to get instant measurements.
- Unique Features:
- Measures both horizontal and vertical surfaces.
- Works for rooms and individual objects.
- Exports measurements and plans for later use.
- Best For: Users needing a versatile app for rooms and furniture.
- Download: CamToPlan on Google Play | CamToPlan on the App Store
Source: Tasmanic
7. MeasureKit (iOS)
- Overview: MeasureKit is a multi-tool AR app with options for all kinds of measuring tasks.
- How It Works: Choose from modes like ruler, trajectory, angles, or even height measurement, all powered by AR.
- Unique Features:
- Real-time AR overlays for measurements.
- Measures distances, angles, and areas.
- Supports metric and imperial units.
- Best For: iOS users wanting a Swiss Army knife of measurement tools.
- Download: MeasureKit on the App Store
Source: MeasureKit
8. EasyMeasure (Android & iOS)
- Overview: EasyMeasure uses AR to measure distances and areas by pointing your camera at objects.
- How It Works: Virtual markers appear on-screen, letting you calculate measurements in real time.
- Unique Features:
- Includes a flashlight and unit converter.
- Measures height, width, and area.
- Perfect for quick, on-the-spot tasks.
- Best For: Users who want a simple, no-fuss measurement app.
- Download: EasyMeasure on Google Play | EasyMeasure on the App Store
Source: Caramba Apps
9. PLNAR (iOS)
- Overview: PLNAR is an AR app focused on creating detailed floor plans and room measurements.
- How It Works: Aim your phone at the floor and tap each corner to map the room’s perimeter and build a 3D model.
- Unique Features:
- Measures walls, doors, and openings.
- Exports plans as PDF or CAD files.
- Ideal for interior designers and contractors.
- Best For: Professionals needing in-depth room layouts.
- Download: PLNAR on the App Store
Source: PLNAR
10. Ruler App (Android & iOS)
- Overview: Ruler App keeps it simple, turning your phone into a digital ruler without AR.
- How It Works: Place your phone next to an object and mark the endpoints to measure.
- Unique Features:
- No AR needed—just a basic, reliable ruler.
- Measures small objects with precision.
- Available in metric and imperial units.
- Best For: Users needing to measure small items the old-fashioned way.
- Download: Ruler App on Google Play | Ruler App on the App Store
Source: NixGame
How to Use Measurement Apps Effectively
These apps are incredibly handy, but getting spot-on measurements takes a little practice. Here are some tips to make the most of them:
1. Calibrate Your App
- Many AR apps need calibration to work accurately. Follow the on-screen instructions to set up your phone’s sensors before you start.
2. Ensure Good Lighting
- Since AR relies on your camera, bright, even lighting is key. Avoid dark rooms or harsh shadows that might throw off the app.
3. Use a Stable Surface
- For apps requiring your phone to rest on a surface (like RoomScan Pro), ensure it’s steady and level for best results.
4. Measure Multiple Times
- To boost accuracy, take several measurements and average them. This is especially helpful for bigger spaces or tricky shapes.
5. Know the Limitations
- These apps are powerful but not flawless. Reflective surfaces, dim lighting, or cluttered rooms can affect results. For critical tasks, double-check with a physical tape measure.
Comparison of Top Measurement Apps
Here’s a quick comparison to help you pick the perfect app for your needs:
| App Name | Platform | AR Support | Floor Plan Creation | Export Options | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Measure (Apple) | iOS | Yes | No | No | Quick measurements |
| Google Measure | Android | Yes | No | No | Android users |
| ARPlan 3D | Android & iOS | Yes | Yes | PDF, JPG, DXF | Renovation planning |
| Magicplan | Android & iOS | Yes | Yes | PDF, CAD | Professionals |
| RoomScan Pro | iOS | No | Yes | Hands-free room measurement | |
| CamToPlan | Android & iOS | Yes | Yes | Measuring rooms and objects | |
| MeasureKit | iOS | Yes | No | No | Multi-tool measurements |
| EasyMeasure | Android & iOS | Yes | No | No | Simple, quick measurements |
| PLNAR | iOS | Yes | Yes | PDF, CAD | Detailed room layouts |
| Ruler App | Android & iOS | No | No | No | Small object measurements |
Common Questions About Measurement Apps
1. How Accurate Are These Apps?
- Most AR apps are accurate within a few centimeters, depending on lighting, surface type, and how steady your hand is. For exact precision, back up your results with a physical tool.
2. Do These Apps Work on All Phones?
- AR apps need ARCore (Android) or ARKit (iOS) support, which most newer phones have. Older devices might not cut it, so check compatibility first.
3. Are These Apps Free?
- Many offer free versions with basic features, but premium options—like floor plan exports—might cost extra via in-app purchases or subscriptions.
4. Can I Use Them Outdoors?
- Some, like EasyMeasure, work outside, but accuracy can dip with bright sunlight or long distances. For big outdoor spaces, try a GPS app like GPS Fields Area Measure.
Conclusion
Measuring rooms and furniture doesn’t have to be a chore anymore. With the best measurement apps for your mobile phone, you can get accurate dimensions in a snap using just your camera. Whether you’re dreaming up a renovation, picking out furniture, or tackling a DIY project, these tools bring convenience and precision right to your fingertips.
From basic rulers to advanced AR apps that craft 3D floor plans, there’s something here for everyone. So, why not give one a spin? Download your favorite from the list above and start measuring like a pro today!