A new simple device for measuring the insulating properties of thin polymer films as a function of applied load has been designed, developed, and tested. This new apparatus, which is based on a commercially available and inexpensive pressure sensor, is very sensitive to small changes in applied pressure. The pressure sensitivity of the apparatus is better than +/-20 Pa over a nominal pressure range of 0-200 kPa. Experimental results of the insulating properties of ultrathin propyltrimethoxysilane polymeric films adsorbed onto iron oxide substrates are presented and illustrate the implementation of the new apparatus.