A buyer’s guide to laser levels

Laser levels can generally be defined as tools that builders use during construction to provide accurate leveling of surfaces such as walls. A laser level may project either red or green lasers on either of the axes according to the type of device you have selected for use.

During the time of use, these devices mounted onto either, walls, tripod stands, or placed on surfaces.  There are various models of laser levels in the market today.

Regardless of the size of work areas or a builder’s expertise in the field, they may still need to use laser levels to assist them in the alignment of walls. This will help them to produce the best results as soon as their buildings are done.

However, the process of choosing which laser level that is most suitable for you may be a tiresome task for most builders.

Because of this, I took my time and decided to make the work easier for you by compiling a list of some of the best laser levels in the market along with their distinctive features that make each one of them stand out that you as a builder may want to put into consideration. Prices are not included in this article since this is a buyer’s guide.

In this article, I will take you through a quick review of some of the best laser levels for construction along with some of the best features of these products that make them stand out.

However, this guide is wholly meant to guide you.  This article uses an unbiased point of view therefore is not in any way meant to endorse a product more than another one. Just because a device is not listed here, does not necessarily mean that you cannot decide to purchase it. Your final choice will be based on your needs, your set budget for these products as well as the size of your workload since some may be most suitable for small tasks while others, for large tasks.

Let us get started. Here is the list of ten of the best laser levels for builders.

Bosch GCL100-80CG 12V Green-Beam Cross-Line Laser Level with Plumb Points

This device can be used either outdoor or indoor making it one of the best choices. This means that it can be used regardless of the setup of the work area.

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B07KD51QRM” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07KD51QRM?tag=tikionline-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”All-in-one functionality – facilitates one-person job setup with horizontal leveling, vertical alignment and plumb point transfer applications, connected capability~~~Built in VisiMax technology – delivers maximum beam brightness, optimized energy efficiency and long-term tool reliability~~~Bright green-beam laser lines — up to 4x brighter than standard red beams~~~Bosch leveling remote app – Free to Download and free to use, this app turns the leveling laser on and off, selects the laser Operating modes, adjusts line visibility~~~12V max Lithium-Ion power – features long runtime for complex or all-day layout jobs~~~Class II laser product, <5mw power output~~~” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-reviews=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”750″]Bosch GCL100-80CG 12V Green-Beam Cross-Line Laser Level with Plumb Points[/amalinkspro]

Cross-line laser projection. This device has a laser line projection technology that makes it capable of projecting two different lines independently or together. With this technology, this device will indeed go a long way to make work easier for you as well as to act as a great time saver since, through this technology, one can cover a large area at once. This device is also the most suitable for use when one is aligning ceilings, plumbing, or dealing with electrical as well as any other installations.

Built-in visimax technology. The BOSCH SELF-LEVELING CROSS LINE LASER also is installed with a built-in visimax technology which makes lines more visible. This technology enables one to use this device outdoor but not where there is a lot of sunlight. This product can monitor power consumption, therefore, making sure that the device saves as much energy as possible. This feature allows one to complete almost a whole project without interruptions.

The Smart pendulum system. This device is also equipped with the smart pendulum system.  This system always indicates whenever there is something that is out of level by letting out a loud beep until the issue is resolved. This feature helps you in the creation of a perfect final layout for your building.

Green beam technology. The BOSCH100 also uses green beam technology.  The availability of this feature means that you can use this device regardless of whether you are dealing with a very large or very small construction.

IP 69 technology. This device also uses the IP 69 technology which helps to protect the internal components and parts, therefore, preventing the entry of dust particles, which is a lot at a construction site, as well as the entry of water into the system which may cause serious destruction.

Bracket Inclusion. This means that the device comes along with a bracket that allows you to easily mount the device on a metallic as well as a non-metallic wall. This device is very easy to mount since it comes with a tripod stand to be placed on for the period that it is in use.

This device, on average, is said to have an accuracy range of between a fifth or an eighth of an inch from as far as 30 feet which translate to about 9 meters.

The cross liner projection technology is one of the rare functionalities of this device.

DEWALT DW089LG 12V 3 x 360 Green Beam Battery with DW0881T Laser Tripod

The DEWALT 12-VOLT MAX LITHIUM-ION  can be used regardless of whether you are dealing with huge or small loads of work.

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B07W7XVWRN” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07W7XVWRN?tag=tikionline-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Three 360 degree line lasers to aid in full room layout~~~Height (inch) 12.5 inch, Overall length (inch) 6.125 inch, width (inch) 17.75 inch.Green beam laser technology which is four times brighter than red~~~Aluminum construction and 1/4 X 20 thread mount~~~Collapsible legs~~~” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-reviews=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”750″]DEWALT DW089LG 12V 3 x 360 Green Beam Battery with DW0881T Laser Tripod[/amalinkspro]

It has a rechargeable battery. This device has a 12-volt lithium-ion rechargeable battery which makes it the best purchase choice if you are going to be working on long projects at once since the battery is powerful as well as rechargeable.

The IP 69 technology. This device also uses the IP 69 technology which protects the internal components and parts by preventing the entry of dust particles, which is a lot at a construction site, as well as the entry of water into the system which may cause serious destruction.

The locking pendulum system. The DEWALT 12-VOLT MAX LITHIUM-ION 100 FT.  also has a locking pendulum system that automatically locks all the internal parts and its components, therefore, reducing chances of the destruction of these parts during transportation as well as a magnet that allows it to be mounted on a metallic wall along with a screw to allow one to screw it against a stone-built wall for support, therefore, preventing the laser level from falling and get damaged. You may also use a tripod stand during the period to provide support to it.

Also, this device has a 360-degree ability because it uses three beams, therefore, allowing one to work on the alignment of all sides of a room at once.

Johnson Level & Tool 99-006K Self Leveling Rotary Laser System

Some of the features that this device:

This device has been made in such a way that it can be used for either outdoor or indoor work, therefore, making it one of the best choices since it can be used regardless of where your work area is.

Johnson Level & Tool 99-006K Self Leveling Rotary Laser System Kit, Soft Shell Carrying Case, Alkaline Battery, Tripod, Mounting Bracket, 13ft Grade Rod, Magnetic Target, Protective Glasses

The cross line laser projection. This device is mostly recommended if you going to deal with vertical or horizontal wall alignment because it can cast both vertical and horizontal lines with it. It can therefore be used to create a cross-line laser.

The locking pendulum system. The device is also created with a built-in locking pendulum system which automatically creates a lock for all the internal parts and components, therefore, reducing chances of destruction of these parts that may be fragile during transportation.

Rugged design. Another feature that puts this device on this list is its ruggedness. This device is, as its body suggests, is mostly meant for tough job sites because its body is fully enclosed therefore protecting all the inner components as well as parts of the device it can, therefore, withstand very high falls.

Long projection distance. This device can cover a maximum of 800 feet which translates to about 243 meters with an accuracy estimation range of between a fifth or an eighth of an inch for as far as 30 feet which translates to about 9 meters.

Its ease of mounting. This model can be easily mounted on a metallic wall using a magnet or on a non-metallic wall using screws. You can also support it by placing it on a tripod stand for the period that it is in use. This feature helps to ensure that the laser level does not fall and get damaged.

Also, this device has a 360-degree ability because it uses three beams hence allowing one to work on the alignment of all sides of a room very easily.

Makita SK106DNAX 12V max CXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Self-Leveling Cross

It has a long battery life. The MAKITA 12-VOLT MAX CTX SELF LEVELING LASER KIT has a 12 max cxt battery that can hold battery power for as much as 20 hours of continuous use of the device. This makes this the most suitable device if you are working in an area that may not have enough power supply or if you want to work continuously without disruptions. To increase the battery power life, you may as well choose to reduce the laser light brightness level since it helps to increase the battery life of the device.

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B07RXWTY3V” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07RXWTY3V?tag=tikionline-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Selectable horizontal/vertical cross-reference lines plus 4-point required for level, align, plumb and square applications~~~12V max CXT battery delivers the convenience of a rechargeable tool battery and up to 20 hours of continuous run time~~~Red Line visibility range up to 82’ depending on ambient light and detectable up to 262 With Makita laser detector LE00855702 (sold separately).Levelling range : 4°~~~Bright 635 Nm Class II Red laser with +/-1/8” at 33’ for best-in-class accuracy~~~SK106; laser; beam; light; level; straight; cabinets; align; even; cross; leveling; red; aligning; pipe; runs; HVAC; ducts; Conduit; cabling; trays; T-bar; ceiling; panels; mullein; curtain; door; window; installation; floor; counter; benchmarks; chair; footer; post; alignment; elevator; rayo; nivelador; punto; lineal; cruzado~~~” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”aligncenter” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-reviews=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”750″]Makita SK106DNAX 12V max CXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Self-Leveling Cross-Line/4-Point Red Beam Laser Kit (2.0Ah)[/amalinkspro]

IP 69 technology. This device also makes use of the IP 69 technology which is incorporated into these devices to prevent the entry of dust particles, which is a lot at a construction site, as well as the entry of water into the device.

Ease of mounting. This device also has ease of mounting since it can be easily mounted on a metallic wall using a magnet or if you intend to attach it to a non-metallic wall using screws.

It has an estimated accuracy range of between a fifth or an eighth of an inch for as far as 30 feet which translates to about 9 meters.

Leica Geosystems 864435 LINO L2P5G Green Beam Point & Cross Line Laser

This product is mainly designed for use by professionals to make their work easier and help them to produce the best results.

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B079D2XJ7H” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079D2XJ7H?tag=tikionline-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Combining green lines and point lasers increases laser visibility in bright environments and large rooms~~~Li-ion battery technology allows it to run over two working days on just one charge~~~Leica optics enable the device to project very long and bright lines/points which extends the working range significantly~~~Time consuming, strenuous tasks of drawing lines or dropping a plumb bob are a thing of the past~~~” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”aligncenter” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-reviews=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”750″]Leica Geosystems 864435 LINO L2P5G Green Beam Point & Cross Line Laser[/amalinkspro]

The green light technology. This device uses green light technology which helps to make the beamlines clearer and more visible even in slightly sunny conditions.

Its ease of mounting. It can be easily mounted on a metallic wall using a magnet or on a non-metallic wall using screws.

This device can cover a maximum of 100 feet which translates to about 30 meters with an accuracy estimation range of between a fifth or an eighth of an inch for as far as 30 feet which translates to about 9 meters.

DEWALT (DW088K) Line Laser, Self-Leveling, Cross Line

High Visibility range. This device can cast a line on a distance of as far as 100 feet which translates to 30.48 meters which will still be visible.  This means that the device can be used in wide work areas.

The cross line laser projection system. This device can cast horizontal and vertical lines at the same time, you can, therefore, use this device when you are dealing with vertical or horizontal wall alignment. It can be used to create a cross-line laser.

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B009O94W3E” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B009O94W3E?tag=tikionline-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”Projects bright crossing horizontal and vertical Lines. Laser Beam Color: Red~~~Full Time Pulse Mode Allows Use with Detector and +/ 1/4 inch accuracy at 100 Feet~~~over molded housing and IP54 Water/debris resistance~~~Integrated Magnetic Pivoting Base with 1/4 Thread; Maintains Full brightness for visibility and extends range~~~Class 2 laser with an output Power of less than or equal to 1.3mW @ 630 680nm~~~” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”aligncenter” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-reviews=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”750″]DEWALT (DW088K) Line Laser, Self-Leveling, Cross Line[/amalinkspro]

The smart pendulum system. This device, just like most of the ones I have stated, is also equipped with the smart pendulum system.  This system always indicates whenever there is something that is out of level consequently letting out a loud beep to let you know which stops as soon as the error is corrected. This feature may help you to create a perfect final layout for your building.

The rugged design. The durability of this device is unquestionable since it is specially built in a way that enables it to withstand the tough working conditions without wearing out very soon, it can also withstand drops from as high as 1 meter.

Batteries life. The long battery life of this device is attributed to the 3 AA type batteries through which they are non-rechargeable.

This device has an accuracy level of between a fifth and an eighth of an inch from as far as 30 feet which translates to about 9 meters.

HAMMERHEAD HLCLG01 Green Beam COMPACT Self-Leveling Cross Line Laser

This type of laser level is mainly meant to be used for indoor purposes because of its short distance range. It also as a very short projecting distance which is of around 30 feet.

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Portability. This model of laser level is highly portable. It can be easily carried around the house because of its small size not to mention its weight.

The smart pendulum system. This device is also equipped with the smart pendulum system.  This system always indicates whenever there is something that is out of level. This feature helps you in the creation of a perfect final layout for your building.

Craftsman 48250

Rugged design. The major unique feature that this model has is its rugged design which enables it to withstand as high as a 10-meter fall

Long battery life. This package of purchase of this device comes along with its 3 AA batteries which enable a builder to work for 20 hours nonstop.

The cross line laser projection system. This is also referred to as the dual-beam design. It allows vertical or horizontal wall alignment because it can cast both vertical and horizontal lines with it. It can, therefore, be used to create a cross-line laser.

Ease of mounting. This device is also easy to mount since it can be mounted on a tripod or attached to a wall magnetically.

Also, the Craftsman 48250 can project its laser to distances of as far as 100 feet.

Tacklife SC-L01-50 Feet Laser Level Self-Leveling Horizontal and Vertical Cross-Line Laser

The smart pendulum leveling system. The Tacklife SC-L01 is fitted with the smart pendulum leveling system which always indicates whenever there is something that is out of level through a loud beep which goes silent as soon as the error is corrected. This feature helps you in the creation of a perfect final layout for your building.

[amalinkspro type=”showcase” asin=”B01N33JJ3R” apilink=”https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N33JJ3R?tag=tikionline-20&linkCode=osi&th=1&psc=1″ new-window=”true” addtocart=”false” nofollow=”true” sc-id=”4″ imgs=”LargeImage” link-imgs=”false” specs=”▲SMART PENDULUM LEVELING SYSTEM – Press the top power button or open the pendulum lock to activate laser beam, it auto-levels when placed within 4 degrees of horizontal/vertical; If out of range, the laser beams will flash to alert; Pendulum locked to start manual mode, can lock lines for alignment to other angles~~~▲FLEXIBLE MOUNTING DEVICE – The laser level can be mounted onto a tripod or affixed to most metal surface using the included magnetic bracket, support you to turn the laser level around at 360 degree , project lines in any position or angle or adjust the height from the tripod~~~▲CROSS-LINE MODE – Emits and projects a laser cross line onto flat surfaces with high accuracy of ±1/8 of an inch at 30 Ft, works best indoors; Ideal for tile alignment, wall studding, windows, doors, etc; Class II laser product, Output < 1mW~~~▲HANDY AND EASY TO USE – Compact and lightweight for easy gripping, but large enough to sit stably; Equipped with a nylon zippered pouch, can prevent dust for storage and protects the level and L base against impact/scratching~~~▲PACKAGE CONTENTS – Tacklife SC-L01 Laser Level Tool; Magnetic Base; AA Batteries; Soft Carrying Bag; English Users Manual; Service Card; 24 Months Service(Ideal for building some Thanksgiving decorations and Christmas decorations)~~~” btn-color=”#ff9900″ btn-text=”Buy on Amazon” alignment=”alignnone” hide-prime=”0″ hide-image=”0″ hide-reviews=”0″ hide-price=”0″ hide-button=”0″ width=”750″]Tacklife SC-L01-50 Feet Laser Level Self-Leveling Horizontal and Vertical Cross-Line Laser – Magnetic Mount Base and Carrying Pouch, Battery Included[/amalinkspro]

Rugged design. Equally important is its ruggedness. Not only is the Tacklife SC-L01 dustproof and waterproof, but it also can withstand very long drops.

Ease of mounting. This device also has ease-of-mounting since it can be mounted on a metallic wall using a magnet or on a non-metallic wall using screws.

Long battery life. It has 2 AA batteries that have a period of 12 hours of continuous usage before going off.

This device has a projection distance of 50 feet.

Pacific Laser Systems PLS-60595

Highly-focused green beam. An exceptional feature of the Pacific Laser Systems is its highly-focused green beam. Having a highly focused beam means that this device can be used even when there is a lot of sunlight because it can still be seen regardless.

Long visibility range. Also, a unique feature that this device also has is a long visibility range which is of over 100 feet.

Rugged design. This feature allows the device to be able to remain intact even if it undergoes a long fall of as high as 1 meter.

When it comes to buying the best laser levels, there are some things that you shouldn’t compromise on. These are:

The accuracy of the laser level, the visibility range, and the battery life of the device. If a device does not meet the average levels of these criteria, you should not consider buying them.

Frequently Asked Questions

Asked by both beginners and expert builders, there are some of the most frequently asked questions that are asked to clear the air on laser beams.

In this section, I will take a look at some of these questions concerning laser levels along with their answers below the respective question answered in the most precise way I was able to.

  1. How does a laser level work?

When electrons are stimulated, they give off light. Therefore, a laser beam is formed when mirrors collect the light and point it in a certain direction. That being said, laser levels give off a beam of light that can act as a guide when a straight and level reference point is needed.

2.       Can I Use Laser Levels in Day Light?

With the current technology, there has not yet been the development of laser levels that are visible in daylight. The closest development to this is the green light technology that has tried to improve the visibility of the lasers.

3.       Can the Laser Light Hurt My Eyes?

It has not been a common cause for someone to be hurt in the eyes of laser beams. Scientists, however, say that long periods of eye contact with these rays may cause you to lose vision either temporarily or permanently.

4.       Is the accuracy rating on a Laser Level Important?

The answers to this question may vary, this is because everyone has different amounts of workload they are supposed to accomplish as well as different accuracy levels needed in different scenarios. Therefore, it depends on your criteria. However, always go for a device with a good accuracy rating.

5.        How often should my laser be calibrated?

Lasers should be calibrated when they are not shooting their specified accuracy. It is recommended that you perform regular checks on your laser level calibrations to make sure they are okay. This should be at least every 5 months.