Type
Just as there are many different types of jobs that require a laser level, there are several different types of levels that you can choose from. These include:
- Line laser – This is the most basic form of a laser level. Once it has been placed on the wall or surface of choice, it will send out a single level line on the surface. This makes hanging pictures or other items quick and easy, since there is the line providing an easy to read level.
- Dot laser – Dot lasers, as the name would suggest, send out a series of dots in a level plane. These dots can then be used as a reference point to hang whatever it is that you want to keep level.
- Rotary laser – Rotary lasers are similar to line lasers in that they project out a line. However, the big difference is that these levels will put a line on every wall within any given room. This makes it simple to make sure that everything in a room on every wall is completely level. These are usually much more expensive, and are also used for general construction works, such as concrete work for foundation, grading, etc.
Self-leveling
This is by far one of the greatest features that a laser level has to offer in comparison to an older model. To get a level line with a bubble level, you have to alter the level, which can make it quite difficult to complete any other tasks.
With a laser level, however, that has this amazing capability, you simply set it in the location you need a level line and presto, it automatically will give you a perfectly straight line to follow. Add this to the fact that most laser levels can be attached in some manner when they are in use, and you have a hands free leveling experience.
Accuracy
The more accurate the level, the more accurate your project will be when you are all finished. Usually, the best way to determine the accuracy level of a level is to look at home many different lines, dots, or points of reference it has. The more points of reference the level offers, the more accurate you will be able to be with your work.
Visibility
The visibility of the laser is a hugely important factor when choosing a laser level. If you are not able to see the laser, you won’t really be able to use the line or dots as a point of reference, which somewhat limits the effectiveness of the level.
Of course, depending on where you wish to use your level will have a direct effect on the visibility. If, for instance, you are going to be working outside in the sunlight, you will need a much brighter laser than if you were working in the garage or basement of your house.
Range
Something else that you should take into account when you are selecting a laser level is the range that it can reach. The range for the lasers on a level varies widely, with the more expensive models having larger ranges than smaller, cheaper models.
The best way to determine the amount of reach that you need in your level is to think about how you intend to use it. From there, the best advice would be to get a level that has a slightly larger range than you think you will need. That way should project come up that requires a larger span, you will be ready and set, rather than wishing for a different model than the one you bought.
Number of beams or spots
Depending on how advanced of a project you are trying to undertake, you might need to get a laser level that is more advanced itself.
This would mean finding one that can give you more beams/dots for quicker points of reference. If, however, you are just looking to complete a simple project, then you won’t need anything above the most basic type of laser level, which will save you a tidy bit of money in the end.
Color
Generally speaking, you can choose one of two colors for your laser level. The two choices that you have to pick from are either green or red lasers. The color of the laser is largely dependent on where you intend to use it. Green lasers are better for outdoor use, as they show up a bit better in bright sunlight, whereas red lasers are better suited to low light situations indoors.
Laser detectors/receivers
These accessories are a necessity if you intend to use a rotary laser outdoors. Since it might be difficult to see any colored laser outside, especially on really bright days, these tripod mounted detectors let you know when your laser is level. Then you can go forward with your project, confident that it will be level in the end.
Ingres protection rating
This rating scale is used to describe two different factors that would have a negative effect on how well your laser level works. The first digit, which is on a scale of 1-7, describes how tightly the device is sealed against dust. The higher the number, the greater the resistance.
The second digit in the rating scale describes how water resistant the level will be. This is rated on a scale from 1 to 9, with one being the least resistant to moisture and nine being completely watertight. Depending on the type of location that you will be using your level, you will need to make sure that you get a level that will give you the protection you need based on these ratings.
Portability
The portability of a laser level will only really come into question if you need to lug it around with you on a worksite. If you intend to use it in your home, then it is ok to get a bigger and bulkier model than you would if you were going to be up and down a ladder all day long.
If you intend to be on the go when you are using your laser level, then you should most definitely aim for a smaller model. That way, you’ll be able to take it with you, no matter where you have to travel. Of course, the more portable a level is, the less powerful the laser will be. The smallest models will also not have as many features as the larger ones do.
Mounting system
Most laser levels can be mounted in many different ways. That helps them to adapt and change to the different situations you will find yourself in when you are on the worksite.
These systems can vary greatly from model to model. Some utilize magnets, while others might use vice-like grips. Regardless of what system you choose, make sure that your level can mount to many different surfaces, such as walls, pipes, bars, struts, and tripods.
Power source
All of the levels that we looked into a run on some sort of battery power. This ranges from any number of AA batteries to rechargeable ones. Standard batteries are nice because they are easy to switch out and are relatively cheap. On the other hand, however, they will not last as long as a rechargeable battery, and they can only be used once.
Rechargeable batteries have a higher upfront cost than standard batteries. This is because they can be used over and over again, as long as you make sure that you charge them. Of course, if you forget to charge your level’s battery, you might run into a time where you need to wait for the battery to charge up before you can complete your job.
Battery life
The life of the battery in the level that you choose will be highly dependent on two factors. The first, of course, is the type of battery. As we stated above, rechargeable batteries will last a bit longer than standard AA and AAA and can be recharged. On the other hand, rechargeable batteries take a while to charge, and if they run out while you are working, they cannot be simply swapped out for new ones as standard batteries can.
The second factor that affects the life of your battery in your level will be how often you utilize it. If you are going to be using your level constantly, every day, then it makes more sense to get a rechargeable battery, since you can charge it on a schedule and save yourself some money. If, however, you only use your level every once in a while, then standard batteries will make more sense.
Self level laser advice, please. Need gift it to son. He is a good builder. A very important men. I want the best lase level for him
Go for the best self-leveling laser then, man. Pacific Laser is doing miracles for me, it’s like half of work done.
I mean it’s super bright and is accurate 100%
Honestly, I’d say Pacific is non other than best laser level for electricians. As one I can only say that it’s a high profile tool, But won’t disagree on the accuracy thing, 100% precise
Mikiro, if I understood you correctly, you need a laser level that would self-level itself accurately enough. A friend of mine says Bosch GPL might be the right one for you.
Hello, Mikiro.
I’d personally advice our top pic DEWALT DW089K. You simply can’t go wrong by buying it. Not only it is the best self-leveling laser but I’d say it’s perfect for other tasks such as leveling foundations.
I run a small contractor firm, what’s the best laser level for builders? Something not too bulky but still professional enough. Thanks!
Go for the #2 product by Topcon, it has a rather impressive range of 2600 feet, I guess it’s the best one if you’re professionals and work with big spaces
C’mon, the Topcon isn’t smth you could easily take and carry around. The number three is better in this case, much more portable and professional enough.
I’m actually not that much of a contractor, just need a level for, say, hanging pictures from time to time. Which is suitable?
Do you really need a professional laser level for hanging pictures only?? looool 🙂 I mean, don’t get me wrong, but a torpedo level would be enough…
The man was just asking for the best laser level for homeowner, not just hanging pictures. I’ve got a very basic one from Dewalt, which is awesome for small house chores, I believe indeed #4 resembles me mine most of all
Honestly, I believe any could suit here. Look at the #4 product from Bosch, best laser level for homeowner if you ask me. Portable and doesn’t require that much space
hi I want to buy myself a laser level that can work in bad wather pls recomend one
Hi, Arthur.
I believe what you are looking for is a DeWALT DW088LG which can easily be called the best laser level for landscaping. Hope it helped
bro, don’t u listen to anyone, I’ve done planty of work outside and Bosch GLL 55 has never turned off during monsoon.
i’d say ditch all the rest and get this bad boy!
Personally I found the DeWALT DW089K most helpful since it’s the best multi line laser level possible. I know it’s not waterproff but I have used it while it was raining like hell and no malfunctions noticed.
I meant to say waterproof, sorry for the typo, lol 🙂
Any suggestions for landscaping? The Topcon seems suitable, anybody owns one?