Best Laser Levels

Review & Comparison, Last Update December 19, 2023
Level up your toolbox with a new instrument! Bricks and cement on the floor, pictures and tiles on the wall, electrical wires, bookshelves and many-many more - even out, align and balance everything in your life with the help of a Laser Lever. ...Read more ...Read less
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PROS
CONS
OUR VERDICT
Laser Type
Maximum Operational Distance
Amount of Beams
Accuracy
Features
Dimensions
Weight
Kit Box
Warranty
 
PROS
It's suitable for acoustic ceiling mounting due to the included special clip. Has a low-battery indicator.
CONS
A lock for the leveling unit would be a nice addition. Try not to bounce the device around, and all will be well.
OUR VERDICT
Heavy-duty laser level with a self-leveling feature will be duly appreciated by both construction workers and tradesmen of all kinds. It also boasts many ways to attach it to different surfaces.
detailed parameters
Laser Type
Cross line
Maximum Operational Distance

Up to 50 feet visible range

Up to 165 feet with a detector

Amount of Beams
2
Accuracy

1/8" at 30 ft

Features
Self-leveling at up to 4° incline, 2 laser lines can be turned on separately, Magnetic pivot bracket
Dimensions
9.2" x 4.5" x 9.5"
Weight

1 lb

Kit Box

1 x laser level, 1 x acoustic ceiling mount, 1 x hard case, 3 x AA batteries

Warranty
3-year limited warranty, 1-year free maintenance service
PROS

The 40-0921 boasts a rich package. It comes with a tripod, hard case and protection glasses so you won't need to buy anything else.

CONS
There's no way to turn on each laser separately to save energy. However, it works up to 12 hours from a pack of 3 batteries.
OUR VERDICT
We can easily recommend this device for indoor tasks like installing window units, tiling the walls or hanging pictures in a gallery. In other words, for any job that requires steady horizontal and vertical lines on a wall or a floor.
detailed parameters
Laser Type
Cross line
Maximum Operational Distance
Up to 100 feet
Amount of Beams
2
Accuracy

1/4" at 35 ft

Features
Self-leveling at up to 6° incline, 360° rotatable when on a tripod, Graduated ring at the base
Dimensions
4.5" x 18.5" x 10"
Weight
1.2 lbs
Kit Box

1 x laser level, 1 x pair of glasses, 1 x elevating tripod, 1 x hard-shell carrying case

Warranty
3-year limited warranty
PROS
You can keep it attached to a metal surface without a mount via built-in magnets.
CONS
The mount can be attached to a wall only via a keyhole.
OUR VERDICT
The balanced multifunctional model will be most suitable for various interior works. Attaching it to a metal molding or a bracket will be no sweat thanks to built-in magnets. For other surfaces use an included mount.
detailed parameters
Laser Type
Point and Line
Maximum Operational Distance

Line - up to 16 feet

Point - up to 65 feet

Amount of Beams
2
Accuracy

3/16" at 33 ft

Features
2 spirit levels, Graduated mounting plate with rotatable holder
Dimensions
5.4" x 11.1" x 0.9"
Weight
1.1 lbs
Kit Box

1 x laser level, 1 x mounting plate, 2 x AAA batteries

Warranty
1-year limited warranty
PROS

It has a powerful laser beam which you will be able to clearly see even in the sunlight. Moreover, the tool is safe to use requiring neither glasses nor other protective equipment.

CONS

Batteries don't last very long.

OUR VERDICT

The main advantage of the BDL19OS is that it can perform the functions of a laser level and a stud finder, making it a practical addition to the toolkit of any DIYer or handyman. Though more basic than the others, it will cope with most quick household jobs.

detailed parameters
Laser Type

Line

Maximum Operational Distance

Up to 20 feet

Amount of Beams

1

Accuracy

±1/8" at 10 ft

Features

Easy-to-read LCD display, BullsEye™ auto-leveling technology, Stud sensor detects wood and metal studs plus live A/C wires

Dimensions

~4" x 8.5" x 1.5"

Weight

1 lb

Kit Box

1 x BLACK+DECKER line laser, 2 x wall attachments (hanging cone and drywall pin), 2 x "AA" batteries

Warranty

2 years

PROS

Has a built-in rulers, tape measure and a spirit level to even things at 45°.

CONS

The laser beam fades in the sunlight.

OUR VERDICT

For those going through any kind of indoor renovation or building works, the Qooltek Multipurpose Level will be a valid option. It's small, budget-friendly, and can be used in various applications, as long as you don't use it outdoors.

detailed parameters
Laser Type

Cross line

Maximum Operational Distance

Up to 20 feet

Amount of Beams

2

Accuracy

1/13" at 32 ft

Features

3 spirit levels, 8 ft. tape measure, Inches and cm rulers at the base, Option to switch from cross line to 1 line

Dimensions

5.1" x 2.7" x 0.9"

Weight

0.38 lbs

Kit Box

1 x laser level, 1 х cross screwdriver, 1 x beam adjusting tool, 3 x AG13 / LR44 batteries

Warranty

Amazon's 30-day return policy

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DEWALT DW088K

Attaboy!

DEWALT had created an interesting cross line laser level that can provide a great assistance during construction works. Considering the fact that this model is made for professionals by professionals, we think that it provides awesome performance. But all in good time.

The DW088K model can project 2 crossed lines in front of it simultaneously. This comes in handy when you have to build a staircase, install suspended ceilings or anything else with perpendicular lines.

This device shows the best results inside a building and has an impressive working range. The tests showed that at 3 ft. the line projection is perfectly visible in the daylight and is approximately 0.1" thick. The further the surface from the device is, the more dissipated and harder to see the projection becomes. The line is still visible at around 40 ft. in the dull lighting and even further in the darkness. Moreover, you can drastically increase the operational distance by using a laser level in a combination with a detector. A laser detector is a device that can spot a laser beam from the distance even if it's already too diffused to be seen by a human eye. Thus, you can upgrade the working range up to 160-165 ft., and assign the DeWalt DW088K for a job on larger sites both indoors and outdoors.

In our opinion, though, the best feature of this model is self-leveling. The horizontal and vertical lines will stay still even when the device is tilted by the wind or vibration from the straight position at up to 4°. If the angle is more than this, the laser lines start blinking. Therefore, you can rest assured that you won't end up with a new Frank Gehry's masterpiece.

Review of DEWALT DW088K Cross Line

Magnificent Performance

DEWALT produces its products in accordance with all safety and quality standards. This laser level is no exception. It's certified with the IP54 standard. The numbers here stand for dustproof qualities and protection from water splashes. However, the company doesn't recommend mounting it in rooms with lots of hard particles in the air, which may appear during sanding or sawing works.

The special magnetic pivot bracket is worth mentioning, too. You can attach the device to a metal surface and turn it to the left or to the right. There is an included wall mount with a clip to set the level on a wall angle - yet another feature for installing acoustic ceilings.

The DW088K is powered by 3 AA batteries and has two switches to turn on and off each of the lasers separately or simultaneously. There's also a LED indicator for low batteries level. That way, you will always know that you have to change them soon.

In conclusion, we want to note that this DEWALT laser level is worth every penny. All of the abovementioned functions work flawlessly and with high accuracy. Its multifunctional design has already been approved by many users. We join them by recommending this tool to you as well.

DEWALT DW088K Cross Line in the use

Kit Box

The DEWALT DW088K comes with a durable handheld toolbox to keep the device safe and sound during transportation. For an extra price, you can get a variant with included branded safety glasses that filter out laser waves. There is also an option with an included laser level tripod that can be extended from 24" up to 69". Finally, there's a 3-in-1 bundle with all of the above to save money on shipping costs.

Detailed review of DEWALT DW088K Cross Line

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $128.14
Stock In stock
ASIN B009O94W3E

VIDEO
Screwfix - DEWALT DW088K SELF LEVELLING LINE LASER

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

This is a fantastic laser with precise accuracy. That is what matters most and what I tested first on it.

Size & Weight

It´s compact, accurate and well made.

Features

It also has super strong magnets, a really nice case and the laser is very bright.
 

Johnson Level and Tool 40-0921

Simple Complexity

For this review, we've tried to pick up as different laser levels as possible. As for the 40-0921 by Johnson Level and Tool, this one has attracted our attention with its unusual barrel design.

However, obviously, that is not the main reason why we've included it on the list. What we like about the 40-0921 is that in addition to great looks it offers a slew of features expected from a laser tool and can be applied in various types of construction works, making it a sound choice both for constructors and non-professionals.

Let's cover performance first. The 40-0921 projects both horizontal and vertical lines as well as allows for angle layouts thanks to its 360-degree graduated base. This adds to its versatility and makes it suitable for just about any application that requires accuracy. What also favorably sets it apart from similar models is that it has a self-leveling feature. With the 40-0921 you will not need to guess whether you hold the tool straight enough to draw accurate targets - it will automatically self-level letting you tackle your projects error-free. And to let you know if the laser's out of level, there's a small visual indicator on the tool.

Another advantage of the 40-0921 is that it can be used both indoors and outdoors. The projected lines are well visible and do not fade in the sunlight as it often happens with cheaper tools. The working range is amazing and can reach up to 100 feet depending on the light conditions. Speaking of operation, you get about half a day of continuous use one set of batteries, which is nothing short of impressive.

Review of Johnson Level and Tool 40-0921 Cross Line Kit

Nifty Features

The 40-0921 is also big on extra nifty features. It comes with a short tripod that can extend from 17" to 47", enabling you to use the tool with greater convenience. Also included is a pair of special tinted glasses. The manufacturer recommends wearing them during each use to protect your eyes from laser beams. You also get a hard carrying case for storing the tool along with all of its accessories - the laser level, batteries, glasses, instructions and a tripod. When packed, the tool weighs just 5 lbs, which makes it quite portable and suitable for contractors working on different job sites.

Overall, the 40-0921 laser level demonstrates excellent performance and comes with everything you need to measure things accurately. Whether you're a professional constructor, electrician, or you simply need a multi-purpose tool for occasional use, the 40-0921 should be right up your alley.

Johnson Level and Tool 40-0921 Cross Line Kit in the use

Additional Info

User Manual

Last updated price $113.67
Stock In stock
ASIN B0038227QM

VIDEO
Johnson Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser Level Kit 40-0921: The ideal leveling tool - The Home Depot

What customers say about this product

Key Specs

I was most apprehensive about its ability to work outside at distances like 40 to 100 feet in daylight. It worked well in afternoon light for the 40 foot distances without the aid of any reflective targets or even the included glasses.

Size & Weight

It is light but sturdy enough

Features

The tripod is sturdy and has a bubble level of its own to assist in leveling the tripod, and the laser level, tripod, and glasses fit nicely in the case that's provided.
 

Bosch GLL 1P

Like a Bosch

The GGL P1 laser level by world-renowned Bosch company looks almost like an office stapler and might be one of the finest solutions for people, who are not planning a grandiose house renovation, but want to fix some things at home. It's best suitable for smaller, simpler tasks like realigning picture frames, bookshelves, installing a TV mount or a handrail on a wall. The level can project one laser type at a time: a dot or a line. The pointer is very bright: at 50 ft. it can still be seen in daylight. You might need a darker room to distinguish it at a farther distance. As expected, the laser line is more or less visible at up to 16 ft.

The controls are pretty straightforward. There is a slider with 3 positions on top of the body. The first position - the laser dot is projected from one side of the device; middle - power-off; third - the horizontal laser line is projected from the other side.

2 AAA batteries are included to power it up. But even if they run out, you can still use the device for making accurate measurements due to built-in horizontal and vertical spirit levels that can be seen from one side of its body.

Review of Bosch GLL 1P Point and Line Combination

Mount Up

This Bosch laser level comes with a versatile wall mount. The magnets in the back of the level unit hold the device on it pretty well. The mount itself consists of a base plate and a rotatable holder to put the level on. The plate has a threaded hole that matches a standard camera tripod and a keyhole hanger to mount it on a screw right on a wall.

The level sticks to the holder's metallic plates that allow vertical or horizontal level's alignment. You can change the beam direction manually by rotating the holder. But for the most precise results, there are graduations on the plate and a special red-colored ribbed adjusting wheel. The only real drawback here is that there's no other way to attach the plate except for drilling a wall or driving a nail in it each time.

You may wonder how powerful the magnets are. They are, really. That's why we do recommend you to keep your mobile and other magnet-sensitive devices away from the laser level.

All in all, the GLL 1P is a great little helper that would come in handy for all tradesmen, carpenters and housekeepers who often cope with little daily tasks.

Bosch GLL 1P Point and Line Combination in the use

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $49.00
Stock In stock
ASIN B00FJWDHSQ

VIDEO
Bosch Power Tools - GLL 1P Line and Point Laser Product Video

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight

Amazing quality in this little thing! The size is smaller than i expected.

Key Specs

For the cost, this thing is pretty amazing! The laser is very bright, and can be seen for a very long distance

Features

The battery life is good and it seems well-made.
 

BLACK + DECKER BDL190S

Basic but Good

Let's put it across right away, this laser lever is pretty basic and yet it has some really unique features, making it worth being added to this list.

To start things off, this is the only level in this review that merges the functionality of several tools in one. You can use it to not only draw perfectly precise targets but also comb surfaces for studs and wires, which makes it irreplaceable for almost any household job that entails hanging things on walls and drilling.

The level has an easy to read LCD screen and can detect studs and wires through up to ¾” from the surface. Using it is a no-brainer. Once the initialization process is complete and the READY icon appears on the screen, the device is ready for scanning. In case the tool detects a stud or wire, it will light up and the message a 'STUD found' will pop up on the screen. This way, you will know for sure where a stud or live wire is and never miss it, though some users report that you might need to scan the same area a few times for accurate results. While this doesn't add points to the tool, it's not a deal-breaker either.

Review of BLACK + DECKER BDL190S Line Laser, Auto-leveling with Stud Sensor

About Leveling Features

With regard to the leveling features, the Black & Decker BDL190S is more basic than the rest of the models we have on this list. With the effective projecting range making 20 feet and a fan angle of 40 degrees, the tool won’t be able to produce a beam as wide as other levels reviewed. It also doesn’t lock pendulum in place or project vertical lines and you will need to hold it flat with the surface to achieve perfectly straight lines. However, we said it from the start, the Black & Decker BDL190S's auto-leveling features are rather limited so you shouldn't expect too much from it.

The biggest strength of this tool is that it has two functions and can cope with most small projects such as when you need to do some renovation job, want to hang some pictures or mount a new shelf to a wall. Another selling points of the Black & Decker BDL190S include its battery-powered design, making it less problematic to use the level, and hands-free operation: just put it on a screw or nail pre-drilled in a wall to secure it to a wall.

In conclusion, though more basic compared to other levels we've seen, the Black & Decker BDL190S has some great features. It's pretty accurate, comes with an intelligent LCD screen, and, what's more important, serves up as a laser level and a stud finder, making it a must-have tool for any DIYer and handyman. For quick jobs like hanging shelves, installing decorative items, or identifying stud and wires, the Black & Decker BDL190S is a fantastic choice.

BLACK + DECKER BDL190S Line Laser, Auto-leveling with Stud Sensor in the use

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $60.05
Stock In stock
ASIN B000B8LLH2

 

Qooltek Multipurpose Level

General-Purpose Tool

Perhaps, the main thing that attracts attention to this laser level is its price, which is considerably lower than the competition, and all those useful features it provides - a very rare combination that you won't find in laser levels too often. Let's check out.

To start off, the Qooltek laser level is a battery-powered model. This means you can simply grab it and go and don't worry about the power supply. Out of the box, it comes with 3 AG13 button-cells and a small x-screwdriver for a battery compartment, a nice bonus from the manufacturer that will save you from the need to comb through your entire toolbox when batteries die and need replacement.

As far as performance goes, it's all in one. Admittedly, the Qooltek is less precise compared to more expensive rivals but given its price, it does its job very well. It offers multiple leveling options and can be used for a variety of tasks beside simple household jobs like hanging shelves, laying floors or installing decorations. The tool reflects a wide beam and allows you to select which type of pointer to project - vertical, horizontal or crossed, a handy addition which makes it a decent general-purpose tool.

Though the Qooltek doesn't include any instructions, you'll hardy need any as it's very easy to use. To get started, just trigger a red switch on the side, and when you need to change the mode, just rotate a small ring around the lens using a metal ruler that comes included in the set. One minor quibble is that this ring feels rather tough and rotating it might take some effort.

Review of Qooltek Multipurpose Level

MORE AND MORE

When it comes to the useful extras we've mentioned before, the Qooltek has two metal rulers on the side and a long 8-ft measuring tape which retracts from the back. As usual, there are imperial and metric units, and there's also a lock for the tape which can be triggered by pushing a slider button at the top. Additionally, the Qooltek features three spirit levels allowing for vertical, horizontal and diagonal leveling. This may come in extremely handy when you run out of batteries and need to measure the incline of a surface. The bubbles are also present in the tool that will let you even out the laser line when you turn the unit on. Basically, you get most of the functions necessary for building jobs.

However, there are a few downsides to it too. The biggest one is that you won't be able to use it outdoors: the laser fades in the sunlight, which limits its range of application. Another thing to keep in mind is that it might fail if you don't align it properly. This does detract a few points from it but doesn't make it a bad product. Once you get the knack of it, making adjustments will be easy!

In all, at this price tag, you'll be hard-pressed to find a better level with so many functions. It's the best general-purpose laser level within a budget range.

Qooltek Multipurpose Level in the use
Last updated price $15.98
Stock In stock
ASIN B00PQ4PJYC

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight

Just the right size to do work with and very handy

Features

Seems well built and they give you a spare set of batteries and small stainless ruler that doubles as a laser adjustment tool.
 

What Is a Laser Level?

Nowadays, you can find a lot of tools for buildings construction and home improvements that greatly facilitate the job of construction workers. One of them is a laser level - its main purpose is to show a leveled angle or direction projection during installation works inside and outside the buildings.

The operating principle is that a laser level creates a visible projection on almost any surface with a visible laser dot, line or even a grid for aligning things in accordance with a necessary angle. It can be implemented in various tasks, e.g. leveling or plastering out a wall or a floor surface, laying the service lines, installing a window unit or book shelves, smoothing plaster or simply aligning a picture frame on a wall.

What’s more, some laser levels can create a projection in three dimensions. This is really helpful because you won’t have to move it around, realigning each time for every direction. On the whole, the laser level will ease the tasks of many construction activities, increasing efficiency and improving overall results.

And if you are searching for the tools to measure distances in premises, check out laser distance meters. They will totally replace a tape measure in your inventory, as some of them not only can measure distance from wall to wall but also can calculate the area and volume of a room.

What Features to Compare

For starters, let’s take a look at what Types of laser levels are available on the market nowadays:

Point laser levels create a single laser beam that projects a dot on the surface if It’s pointed directly at it. Additionally, when the level’s body is flat near the laser source, it may project a short, but highly visible line if placed along the surface. This is helpful for making a straight line on the wall for hanging a wallpaper, aligning picture frames or shelf tops on the same level. It also allows you to check if the surface is uneven along the line. However, it might not be suitable for more complex tasks.

Line and cross line laser levels can project one or more long straight lines. With two or more lines you can simultaneously project them at direct angles to each other. This is helpful for installing power lines, an array of lamps, shelves, acoustic ceiling profiles, etc.

Rotary laser level project laser line in 360° from its head. Those are required for highly specific works, such as pouring cement floors, driving piles in, aligning pictures on all the walls at once in art galleries and so on.

It’s worth noting, that you can find laser levels with combinations of each type.

After you chose the type, don’t forget to take a look at Operating Parameters. The main one is a working distance. Most of laser levels have a working range within 50-100 ft. which is usually enough for most of the tasks. Please note, that in the daylight laser lines might be less clear due to the light dissipation. But if you are planning to use it professionally at construction sites, you might need the one, that works within 100 ft. range or can be used with a laser detector.

Another parameter is a Number of Laser Lines that the unit can produce. Two crossed lines are enough for plastering a wall or making the marks on it for tiling. Several beams are also required on big construction sites, as more people can work with one device simultaneously. For example, one person drills the holes in the walls, while the other one drills them in the ceiling. Also, check if the beams can be turned on separately for saving battery charge. Of course, don’t forget to take a look at the accuracy margin. To put it in simple words, the smaller this parameter is, the more exact your lines will be.

Features. Those are the things that make your work even easier. In our opinion, the best one is self-leveling. When a level’s position is leaned to a side, the pendulum inside makes the laser lines stay still and leveled. When the pendulum can't compensate an incline any further, the laser may start blinking, change the color or make a beeping sound to inform you about it. Less sophisticated models come with a built-in classic spirit level instead of a pendulum so that you could adjust it manually.

And of course, mind the Size of the device and what comes in the Kit Box. Small compact levels are perfect for tradesmen's use who are always on the move. Construction workers are usually less dependent from the equipment's weight and size, as it’s shipped onsite with all the other materials. Nevertheless, there are pocket-sized professional levels on the market already. As for additional things, the kit may contain a tripod and a case for transportation.

Despite having a similar operating principle, laser levels may boast many other unique features. So, we are going to straight out some of them right below. Let's take a closer look at the following products.

Sources:

1. Mike Edwards Choosing and Using a Laser Level – Which Type of Laser Level Should You Use and How to Use it, DIY Doctor.

2. Stephen Smith "Beam me up" Picking the Right Laser, Leica Geosystems. January 7, 2015.

3. Hugh Baertlein Laser Levels for Construction Applications, Leica Geosystems. October 6, 2014.

4. Marie Willsey How Laser Levels Work, HowStuffWorks. June 8, 2009.

5. Tim Carter Using Transits, Laser Levels and Optical Builder’s Levels, Ask The Builder.

6. How to Calibrate a Spirit Level, DoItYourself. September 4, 2012.

7. How to Use a Spirit Level, Property24. June 4, 2013.

8. Linda Cottin How to Use a Level, LJWorld. April 30, 2016.

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