A tension-only load cell is designed specifically to measure only tension.

Most load cells work in both compression and tension to some degree. However, some load cells, by virtue of their physical construction, are better suited to either compression or tension.

Sometimes, it is preferable to use a load cell that measures both compression and tension without enabling its compression-measuring capability. Rather than design a load cell that measures only tension, a load cell capable of measuring compression and tension can be shipped with calibration carried out only for tension. This type of load cell might be considered a tension-only load cell, although it is technically a compression and tension load cell being used only for tension.

Tension-only load cells tend to be long in shape, and are often fitted with rod-end bearings, which minimize side loading.