Alexandra Ramirez
1. DEWALT
Best Overall Laser Level
5/5 Product Rating
When it comes to finding the best laser level, it all comes down to precision and functionality. This product stands out among the rest, and customers consistently note that it’s incredibly easy to use and can stand the test of time. DeWalt is the leader in terms of tools you need on the job, and this product is just another fine example of how this brand is leading the pack. Whether you need a laser level for your job, or for your own personal use, this is going to be a leveling product that you can really stand behind.
– Darius Spieth
2. Bosch
Best Overall Laser Level – Runner Up
4.8/5 Product Rating
This leveling device is superior because it’s compact in size, lightweight, and works with great precision. Easy to use, the level clearly indicates its data, and operates for quite a long time with the batteries provided. Constructed of solid materials, this is a level that you can be guaranteed will stand the test of time, and works for a number of leveling applications. This is a top rated laser level for good reason, and customers across the country swear by it.
– Darius Spieth
3. Black & Decker
Best Budget Laser Level
4.7/5 Product Rating
A top rated leveler, this device stands out from the rest for its ease of use and solid construction. The level is also incredibly portable, making it easy to take on the go to any job site. Whether you’re a professional, or someone who just likes to perfectly hang pictures at home, you’re going to see that this product can get the job done at an affordable price, and with great precision. Black & Decker is one of the leading brands when it comes to tools for the professional and handyman, and this is just another tool that you should add to your arsenal.
– Darius Spieth
Laser Level Buying Guide
What is a Laser Level?
A laser level is a highly necessary tool at home and for several different industries. Often you need to create a perfectly horizontal surface for a number of different applications. When it comes to hanging shelves, the need for perfect leveling is fairly moderate, but when you need to install a slanted foundation or floor correctly, it could be devastating if you’re even one degree off. There are traditional air-bubble levels which have been used for decades and are incredibly accurate, however, the latest laser levels offer you more accuracy, as well as providing additional functions like plumbing and distance measuring. This is a multi-purpose tool that is economical, saves you space, and is incredibly convenient.
You need to acquire a basic understanding of all levels in general before you purchase a laser level. You also need to become familiar with the different types of laser levels on the market, and understand the safety considerations that apply to all lasers. When you take the time to understand these components, you’ll be much more prepared to make a good decision when it comes time to make a purchase.
Usage
A well-built laser level can perform a number of tasks, such as:
- Installing something that must be perfectly horizontal, like floors, ceilings, shelves, chairs, stairs, cabinets, rails, and pipelines.
- Plumbing columns, walls, and vertical pipes.
- Hanging pictures and mirrors.
- Measuring distances between various objects.
- Often used by high-tech industrialists as well as homeowners.
- A good level will serve many functions in one unit.
Types
There are many different kinds of laser levels, and they all use a beam of light to determine an angle by measuring the beginning and the end points of the beam. That means that a laser level can be used in any direction. A laser level also indicates not just horizontal levels but also vertical plumbing. The most common kinds of laser levels are the dot laser, line lasers, and rotary lasers.
- Dot Laser Levels: Also known as zero-dimensional lasers, these levels display one or more dots onto a surface. This dot can show a level at the same height on an opposite wall, and it can line up the top of one window frame with another. These dots can be marked on the surface then with a pencil. When there are several dots shown they function like a line.
- Line Laser Levels: This is known as a one-dimensional laser level, and they use a single laser beam through 180 degrees to determine an absolute vertical or horizontal line. This beam can also be used as a straight-edge, and can be helpful for lining up a row of pictures, or installing a shelf on a level plane along the wall.
- Rotary Laser Levels: These kinds of lasers are similar to line laser levels as they use a single laser beam. But, this beam is able to travel 360 degrees, giving you two dimensions. This is a handy features when you are installing a chair rail around three or four sides of a room. Most rotary lasers offer accuracy to 1.4 inch per 100 feet when used manually and 1/8 inch with automatic operation.
Horizontal Vs. Split-Beam Laser
With a horizontal level, you get a laser that is shot only in one direction, while a split-beam laser will send out a horizontal and vertical beam at the same time. What this allows you is an installation level and plumb level at the very same time.
Safety Considerations
There are many different kinds of lasers, and it’s important to keep in mind that some can potentially cause some damage, especially to the eyes. Most lasers that you will find run a Class IIIA, and this notably produces partial blindness in spots of the visual cortex as well as other kinds of eye damage. That’s why it’s always important to not allow the laser to reach direct contact with your eye. When operating a laser be sure to follow these safety guidelines:
- Always read the directions carefully before operating a laser level.
- Never look directly into the laser beam. When the beam is visible, do not stare at the beam for more than a couple seconds, and look at the surface where the laser hits only when necessary.
- Never tamper with the laser housing or mechanism. You should not try to repair a laser on your own, and always leave stickers and labels intact.
- If you’re ever unsure about how to operate the laser, consult the guide or contact a professional.
Benefits
With the help of a laser level you can reach a degree of accuracy that is not possible with the human eye or a traditional spirit level. But you must consider the fact that you’ll have to use a battery to operate the level, and it poses a health risk when not used correctly. That being said, there is no better source of accuracy than the use of a laser level. This is the ideal type of level if you enjoy technological gadgetry, and want the ultimate in precision when you’re hanging pictures at home, building shelves, creating floors, and a whole host of other tasks. Not only can professionals benefit from owning a laser level, but even home owners and handymen will see the difference when they invest in this remarkable tool. Most laser levels are quite lightweight and portable as well, making it easy to take them on the job site or anywhere else they need to go. Laser levels are pretty affordable as well.
Conclusion
When it comes to building anything, it all comes down to precision. You know that if you’re installing a floor, if your measurements are off by even a couple of degrees you can seriously ruin the whole project. Levelers have been used for ages to ensure that the floor, the ceiling, and the stairs are just perfectly leveled. These days laser levels have changed the whole game, offering superior measurements in a more refined and precise way. If you’re someone who constructs things, or if you’re just a stickler about getting all the pictures in your home on the same plane, then owning a laser level is the smart choice. You can be guaranteed the most accurate results, while enjoying ease of use.
The buyer’s guide above is intended to inform you about what kinds of laser levels there are out there, and what your options might be. When you better understand this remarkable tool it will be easier for you to make an informed decision when it comes to purchasing. All the top rated levels that we discussed are leading the pack when it comes to accuracy, portability, and ease of use. You can be guaranteed when you buy one of these models that you’re getting a product that is built for durability and long life. All of these products are also user-friendly, so even if you’ve never used a laser level before, you should be able to figure it out quickly.
Resources
- Dewalt: http://www.dewalt.com
- Bosch: http://www.boschtools.com/
- Black & Decker: http://www.blackanddecker.com/
