NeoRuler and M-Cube Evaluation: Enhanced Measurement Techniques

Hozo Design has introduced two innovative digital measuring devices, the NeoRuler and M-Cube, designed to enhance both micro and macro measurements by making them more precise and user-friendly.

Over the years, the concept of measurement tools hasn’t seen much innovation, and the traditional ruler even less so. Hozo Design aims to revolutionize this with their NeoRuler and M-Cube, which are versatile tools suitable for desk work and field use.

NeoRuler and M-Cube Review: NeoRuler

The NeoRuler reimagines the traditional ruler concept. Unlike conventional rulers with centimeter and inch markings, the NeoRuler resembles a set of calipers and features a digital display for measurements.

To measure, you move a physical indicator along the ruler’s channel, and the measurement is displayed in millimeters and inches on the LCD screen.

NeoRuler review: The display on the NeoRuler

The NeoRuler features a 1.14-inch color LCD with a resolution of 240 by 135 and a pixel density of 240 pixels per inch. While smaller than an Apple Watch, it’s effective and bright for its purpose.

While unconventional, the NeoRuler proves useful. You can adjust the scale from 100,000:1 to 1:100,000, making it suitable for measuring in feet, miles, meters, and kilometers, especially useful for blueprints or maps.

Although it resembles a regular ruler with side indicators, it doesn’t provide direct measurements. Instead, it lights up the area used for measurement, offering a visual reference.

The Space Divider function allows you to set distances between points, with lights indicating each section’s start and end.

You can enhance the NeoRuler’s capabilities with add-on modules like the Neo Pointer, Neo Magnifier for magnifying objects, and Neo PenHolder for drawing while measuring.

NeoRuler review: The open NeoCaliper

The Neo Caliper module transforms the ruler into an electronic caliper for measuring various objects.

Measuring 13 inches long, 1.7 inches wide, and 0.39 inches thick, the NeoRuler is bulkier and heavier than a standard ruler, weighing 6.4 ounces due to its aluminum alloy and stainless steel build.

It houses a 1,000mAh battery with USB-C charging, offering up to 14 days of continuous use or 12 hours at maximum consumption, and 180 days on standby.

Equipped with 93 built-in scales, including 52 US Standard and 41 Metric versions, it’s easier to manage via the companion app. The Meazor App 2.0, connected via Bluetooth 4.0, offers themes, data lists, drawing modes, and customizable scales.

NeoRuler and M-Cube Review: M-Cube

While the NeoRuler is ideal for desk measurements, the M-Cube excels in other areas, primarily as a laser measurement device for larger distances.

The M-Cube’s core is a laser measurement tool, capable of measuring distances up to 164 feet with a Single Laser and 10fps speed with a Multi-functional Laser.

NeoRuler review: The M-Cube system

Compact at 1.7 inches by 2.2 inches and 1.3 inches thick, weighing 2.8 ounces, the M-Cube boasts a 1.89-inch IPS LCD with a tempered glass touchscreen and 240ppi resolution for various functions without needing a companion app.

The Meazor App 2.0 can still be used for additional tasks, but the M-Cube independently handles distance measurements, spirit leveling, volume calculations, and more. Additional modules expand its utility.

NeoRuler review: The M-Cube’s laser

The Smart Planner module helps map room perimeters for floorplans, with results visible on the display and exportable in formats like DXF for AutoCad.

The Bilateral Laser+ module extends measuring capabilities to 328 feet, with a built-in angle sensor and manual spirit level for accuracy. It also features a cross-level laser for marking large areas.

The Scale Roller module allows you to roll along a surface to measure, guided by a laser. It includes 93 built-in scales for measuring distances to scale on maps or plans.

NeoRuler review: The package, supplied in a case.

Like the NeoRuler, the M-Cube’s add-ons are sold separately or in packages.

It features a 900mAh battery, lasting up to 12 hours of continuous use or 14 days of regular use, and 90 days on standby.

NeoRuler and M-Cube Review: Testing

Located near Washington DC, I consulted with the US National Institute of Standards and Technology to test the accuracy of these devices. They noted that traditional measuring tapes are often inaccurate, especially at the start. Consistency matters when using the same tape for all measurements.

We tested our equipment with an architect’s scales, and the NeoRuler performed exceptionally well, allowing us to use the drafting kit practically.

The NeoRuler features two attachments for inserting a drafting pencil. As you draw a line, the extension moves with the pencil tip, and the length is displayed on the NeoRuler’s screen.

This functionality, combined with 93 built-in scales, facilitates easy conversion from drafts to real-world measurements.

We also tested the M-Cube on a job site for practical measurements. The M-Cube core, with its attachments, proved effective. Data from the Bilateral Laser attachment was passed to the Meazor app, and the Smart Planner mapped rooms accurately.

Accuracy depends on the user. For instance, the Smart Planner’s mapping relies on correct user inputs. We highly recommend using a tripod for the M-Cube to eliminate hand-held measurement inconsistencies.

Using a tripod, measurements were consistent. Hand-held use introduced up to a half-inch variance. While the company claims a 50-meter daylight measurement range for each laser, practical use may vary. For extended distances, consider specialized equipment.

NeoRuler and M-Cube Review: Outstanding & Precise Measurements

The saying “measure twice, cut once” often turns into measuring multiple times. With rising material costs, precision is crucial. The NeoRuler and M-Cube have a learning curve, but precision tools require practice. Familiarity with laser measuring helps, but the software complements the hardware well.

These products target specific users. For occasional tasks, affordable laser measures suffice. However, for demanding and precise needs, these tools are the right choice.

We’ve lent our review unit to a cabinetry shop and will share more insights once professionals have used it. Currently, we can affirm that these tools are excellent for amateur woodworkers and professional architects.

NeoRuler and M-Cube Pros

Incredible, easy precision.
The Meazor 2.0 app is excellent and pairs well with the hardware.
Modular approach to both the NeoRuler and M-Cube allows for easy expansion.

NeoRuler and M-Cube Cons

Every module on the M-Cube needs a tripod hole.
While inexpensive for what it offers, simple laser measures are far cheaper.

Rating: 4 out of 5

Where to Buy the NeoRuler

The NeoRuler Digital Scale Ruler is available on Amazon, starting at $99.99. Bundles, like the NeoRuler Digital Caliper Premium Combo kit, are priced at $249.

The M-Cube is available on its own for $59.99 on Amazon, with bundle pricing options also available.