A Guide to the Best Laser Levels of 2022
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Best Laser Level
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Laser levels are not just for professional contractors. They work well for all kinds of home projects, such as installing new kitchen cabinets, adding a seat to your bay window, painting your walls, replacing baseboards, putting up shelving, or lining up a fence.
To help you select which one is best for you, I have outlined the various features below along with a list of the best laser levels currently available.
UPDATED: May 4, 2022.
MY TOP PICK:
If you are looking for the best overall, I recommend the DEWALT DW088K because it features both horizontal and vertical line projection, a range of up to 100 feet, and a rotating magnetic base.
Whether you are a builder or a homeowner, you’ve likely used a simple bubble level on several occasions. It is an essential part of any toolkit, especially when it comes to hanging picture frames or installing a set of floating shelves. But when it comes to large-scale projects or frequent small ones, you’re better off with the reach, versatility, and accuracy of a laser level.
What is a laser level?
A laser level is not to be confused with a laser measuring tool (which provides the distance between objects), or a laser pointer (a tool that a teacher uses in presentations).
There are actually a few different types of laser levels, but the one we will be discussing is called a laser line level. The laser line level can be used for both residential and commercial projects. This is the most common tool used by DIY-ers and homeowners, though it’s also a staple in the toolbox of professional contractors. It’s more affordable and compact than commercial-grade rotary lasers or tower-mounted lasers.
How does a laser level work?
A laser line level works by projecting bright horizontal, vertical, or cross lines onto flat surfaces with extreme accuracy. Most devices will self-level when positioned near the point of being level. If you need to, you can enable a manual mode, allowing you to project lines that are not level or plumb. You can also use mounting clamps that easily attach to a variety of surfaces for completely hands-free operation.
Operation
Despite the advanced technology, laser levels are quite easy to use. The specifics will vary depending on the manufacturer. However, most devices come with a simple button to toggle between horizontal, vertical, or both (crossed) lasers. Once you have the lasers in the location you want, there is typically a switch to lock them into place.
A Guide to the Different Types of Laser Levels
These devices can be used in construction, painting, cabinetry, and any home improvement project. When shopping for a laser level, you’ll need to consider the mounting options, beam color, orientation of the laser line, and overall accuracy.
Most lasers are self-leveling within 4 degrees: meaning that they can adjust to compensate for being set on a slightly unlevel surface. If your floors are extremely wonky, the device will flash to let you know that it is not level.
Quick tip: Make sure to put your laser into manual pendulum locking mode when you transport it or store it. This will keep the laser from going out of alignment.
Below is a summary of the commonly available features to look out for when selecting a specific model.
Size
A simple but important feature to note is the overall size of the unit. Since most will be packed in a carry bag or toolbox take note of the dimensions. Some are designed to be small enough to carry in your pocket. Typically the feature set will be reduced given a smaller unit, all else being equal. As a result, you will need to weigh the pros and cons of what features you require versus how easy it will be to carry around.
Accuracy
The accuracy of a particular laser will be provided by the manufacturer as a plus/minus value. This is how close the tool comes to providing the exact horizontal and/or vertical lines. For example, an accuracy of +/- 1/8" @ 30’ means it will be within 1/8 of an inch at a distance of 30 feet.
Range
The distance these tools can project lines varies by model, however most project up to around 50 feet. Since you are typically using these within a room it is adequate for most applications. Range extenders are available that can detect the laser and provide visual and audible feedback. This is particularly helpful for outdoor applications where a greater range is often required.
If you require a much longer distance you may need to go with a rotary laser. These can provide a reference up to 1,000+ feet away (2,000-foot diameter) when using a receiver.
Green vs. Red Lasers
The most common laser colors available are red and green. So what is the difference?
Green lasers tend to be easier to see (especially in outdoor conditions) when compared to red. However, they typically offer a shorter battery life and are more expensive on average than red.
By contrast, red lasers tend to be more affordable and the batteries last longer. Some people find that red lasers are harder to see in bright conditions, especially outdoors. If you find the red lines difficult to see indoors, a simple solution is to dim the lights. There are also glasses you can wear that can help to enhance the visibility of the red lines both inside and out.
Method of Power
Most of these units are powered by one or several standard batteries such as a AA. This has the benefit of being able to quickly swap out a new battery when out in the field. If it were a fixed battery like a smartphone it would require waiting for it to charge, delaying the task.
Weatherproof Rating
Since these tools may spend time outdoors it is important that they are weatherproof to avoid damage over time. The standard rating system is known as the IP Code (Ingress Protection Code) and is published by the International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC). This IP Code or rating establishes the amount of protection provided against the intrusion of dust and water. This system is used to provide specific values to help clarify the rather vague terms of waterproof, weatherproof, and water-resistant.
The most common rating for these is IP54. The first number refers to solid particle protection. In this case, a “5” is the second-highest possible rating since it provides sufficient protection from the ingress of dust. The second number refers to the protection from water. In this case, an IP54 has a rating of “4” which means that it can withstand water splashing against the enclosure from any direction and have no harmful effects. In other words, it can withstand standard outdoor conditions but not be completely submerged in water.
Mounting Options
To be most effective these levels should be placed on a flat and stable surface. This can be as simple as setting it on a portable workbench or a table. They can also be mounted to the wall with a screw or nail. If you are using it quite often it is best to invest in a tripod. This provides a secure base that can easily be adjusted and moved around. The level attaches to the tripod using a threaded mount on the bottom of the unit just like a camera.
Now, onto the products themselves! Each unit has been broken down according to its function and features. I’ve compiled a list of the top models available from well-known manufacturers including DEWALT, Bosch, Makita, and more. There is a wide range of price points below, so whether you’re looking for the cheapest possible option or a commercial-grade level, I have found something for you.
Best Overall: Dewalt DW088K Laser Level
Professional-grade and highly accurate.
For frequent, large-scale projects, I highly recommend the heavy-duty Dewalt DW088K. It’s a slightly more premium price, but you get a Class 2 laser product with a magnetic bracket and a hard-sided carrying case for safekeeping.
This device casts both horizontal and vertical laser beams and it is self-leveling within four degrees. That means you don’t have to worry about the device being absolutely level. If it is tilted slightly, the lasers will automatically correct. If the device is way too far off, the laser beams will simply blink to alert you that there is a leveling issue.
The laser level comes with a rotating magnetic base for stabilization. You can attach the device to any steel or ferromagnetic metals on the jobsite, such as a beam, for a hands-free experience. It also has a 1/4-inch thread for mounting on a tripod, though the tripod is not included. You can mount it on the wall using a screw or nail, or you can just rest it on a tabletop or ladder. The self-leveling feature makes this easy.
I rate this product a 10/10 for user-friendliness. It is lightweight, features side buttons that easily control the laser beams, and is accurate within ⅛ inch at 30 feet.
The Dewalt laser level runs on three AA batteries which are included. The only downside is that the red laser light can be hard to see in the bright outdoor daylight, but this is a problem that you’ll encounter with most laser levels. Just try to use it during dusk or early morning.
Here is a brief video overview of the operation and features of the unit:
Other features:
Has an indoor range of up to 100 feet.
Measures 8.66 x 4.72 x 8.66 inches.
Use the full-time pulse mode with the DEWALT DW0892G Line Laser Detector (sold separately) to extend the range to 165 feet:
Best Value: Tavool Self-Leveling Laser
For DIY projects around the house.
For homeowners on a budget, I highly recommend the Tavool laser. It’s perfect for those small DIY projects around the house, such as installing floating shelves, hanging picture frames, renovating cabinets, or painting a room.
It’s resistant to water, dust, and electric shock, making it very safe to use around the home. I also enjoy the long battery life. It’s good for up to 15 to 20 hours. The device runs on 4 AA batteries, which are included.
What I love about this laser is the fact that you can slide a simple switch at the top of the device to lock the laser position in place. This allows you to use the laser as a straight edge instead of a level.
Lots of homeowners don’t think about this, but it’s fairly common to have an uneven ceiling line or flooring. When you’re installing, say, a new set of cabinets, you’ll want to align your cabinets to the line of your ceiling instead of a true level. Simply lock the laser, then tilt the device until it forms the line that you need.
The Tavool projects horizontal, vertical, and cross lines. The red laser lights are visible even with indoor lights on, though they can be hard to see in the daylight.
Other features:
Offers visibility up to 50 feet.
Self-leveling within 4 degrees; flashes if the alignment is outside of that angle.
Comes with its own magnetic mount, as well as a ¼-inch hole for tripod mounting.
Measures 3.5 x 2.2 x 3.15 inches, making it more compact/portable than the Dewalt laser.
Includes a protective carrying case.
Best Indoor Visibility: Bosch GLL 55 Laser Level
Bright and high-tech.
This device is excellent for anyone who performs frequent home renovations. The product has a highly durable over-molded shell to protect the device from dust and water splashes — you can use it day-in and day-out without worrying about wearing down the device.
The thing I like best about this laser level is the Visimax technology. The technology constantly checks and stabilizes the laser’s temperature based on the current conditions. It keeps the laser from overheating while ensuring that the line is as bright as possible.
Even still, you shouldn’t plan to use this outdoors under direct sunlight. It’s a red laser, meaning that it will show up best indoors or under dim lighting conditions. If you need to use it outdoors under direct sunlight, use laser glasses to see the light better.
Other features:
Class 2 laser product.
Projects horizontal, vertical, and cross lines.
Range of visibility up to 50 feet.
Comes with a magnetic mounting bracket to attach to steel, and it also has a freestanding mode.
Smart Pendulum Self-leveling system.
Runs on 3 AA batteries.
Comes with a hard carrying case.
Measures 4.4 x 2.2 x 4.2 inches.
Must-have Accessory
Don’t forget the tripod.
Best for Ceiling Projects: Klein Tools 93LCLS Laser Level
Excellent for homeowners and lighting contractors.
You’ll want to have this Klein Tools laser on hand if you are hanging a light fixture, installing a ceiling fan, or renovating your ceiling with shiplap or coffers. It has a 90-degree vertical plumb spot laser located on the top of the device, so you can easily locate positions on the ceiling overhead.
There are two models available: one with a green and one with a red laser. The red laser light is very bright and easy to see even with all the lights on. As with all red lasers, you’ll likely need laser glasses to view it outdoors in the daylight.
A few drawbacks I found with this particular model: the battery section is a bit difficult to open. Also, the magnets in the 360-degree mounting bracket are rather weak, so you’re better off relying on the tripod mount or the extra ceiling grid mounting clamp.
Other features:
Comes with ¼-inch and ⅝-inch threads for tripod mounting.
Resistant to both water and dust.
Comes with a hard carrying case.
Runs on 3 AA batteries, included.
Medium-sized, as it measures 5.28 x 2.57 x 5 inches.
Best Premium Option: Makita SK104Z Laser Level
For completing projects at lightning speeds.
If you’re an avid maker or a professional contractor, I highly recommend the Makita SK104Z laser. The Makita laser will self-level and give you an accurate reading in just three seconds. This is the perfect tool for professional contractors, landlords, or homeowners who have a high volume of projects to get through.
At this premium price, this laser is certainly an investment. But the higher price tag is well worth it. The bright, Class 2 laser is visible up to 50 feet, and it will self-level within 4 degrees. It’s also built with recessed laser windows that will withstand frequent use, including abrasions and drops.
Other features:
Runs on 3 AA batteries, not included.
Comes with a carrying pouch.
Has a magnetic bracket that can be attached to a tripod via a ¼-inch or ⅝-inch thread.
Can manually lock the laser.
635 NM Class 2 laser.
Measures 4.8 x 8.7 x 5.6 inches, the largest on this list.
Best Green Laser: Huepar 621CG Laser Level
For the highest visibility.
The Huepar green laser projects a 360° horizontal line, which is perfect for full-room renovations such as cabinetry, wallpaper, and paint jobs. The green light is brighter than red lasers so this is perfect for outdoor projects like decks or fences or roofing projects.
Like most devices, you can flip into manual mode and lock the pendulum, which allows you to tilt the laser and make your own straight line. The only thing here is that the laser blinks every few seconds when it is on auto-lock. That isn’t ideal if you’re using the laser for a paint job or other installation, but it can be worked around.
Other features:
Highly durable
The portable carrying case is one of the more convenient layouts.
Runs on 4 AA batteries, included.
Comes with a magnetic pivoting base.
Measures 3.77 x 2.89 x 4.22 inches.
Best Rechargeable: SKIL LL932201 Laser Level
For projects that span multiple walls.
The bright red SKIL laser will be your saving grace for DIY home projects that extend to multiple walls, such as hanging curtain rods, painting walls, or installing backsplash, trim, paneling, or cabinets. The laser lines, which you can project both horizontally and vertically, are visible up to 65 feet in all directions, and the horizontal line will project 360° around the room.
The device comes with a tripod that raises up to 3½ feet. You can place it on a table, chair, or ladder for extra height. The manual locking mode allows you to project lines at any angle. It runs on rechargeable batteries and comes with a USB charging port for extreme convenience.
Overall, the SKIL laser is lightweight, highly accurate, and great for all skill levels. Like all red lasers, it’s best used indoors under dim lighting. The rechargeable batteries are a nice touch that will save you money, time, and headaches in the long run. Anyone who works on home projects knows the frustration of dead batteries in the middle of a job.
Other features:
Self-leveling within 4 degrees.
Measures 3.77 x 2.89 x 4.22 inches.
Runs on 1 lithium polymer battery (included).
Comes with a charging cord, tripod, and a soft carrying bag.
Most Durable: Firecore F112R Self-Leveling Laser
This class 2 laser is great for beginners and professionals alike. It’s very easy to use: simply hold down the power button for about 3 seconds and the laser will turn on. The device comes with three modes: level (horizontal), plumb (vertical), and cross-line. The laser is accurate within 1/8 inch at 30 feet and is self-leveling within 4 degrees.
The device has an L-shaped magnetic pivoting bracket with a thread mount, so you can attach it to metal or studs on the jobsite. It’s resistant to water and debris and can withstand a 3.3-foot drop.
If you need to use a straight line for reference, you can switch the device into a pendulum locking mode. The laser will blink every 5 seconds when it is locked to remind you that the line is not level. However, there is a workaround if you don’t like the constant flashing. Just leave the power button in the middle between the On/Off switch. This works the same as the pendulum lock but the laser will not flash.
Other features:
Runs on 2 AA batteries (included).
Comes with a mounting bracket, instruction manual, and a soft pouch for storage.
Measures 3.15 x 2.17 x 3.54 inches.
Best Range: Topcon RL-H5A Laser Level
Ideal for large projects.
Need to replace a fence around your property? Building a retaining wall? Laying concrete? This device is the perfect way to get a large-scale job done.
Like many of the other devices on this list, the Topcon RL-H5A features a laser beam that is self-leveling within 5 degrees. In addition, this unit has an impressive range of up to 1,300 feet (2,600-foot diameter) when using a receiver. It functions by rotating a laser 600 times per minute to produce a 360-degree horizontal line. It is able to provide an accuracy of up to +/-1/16" or 1/8" at 100 feet.
Of all of the units discussed, this is the one that really needs a tripod given its relatively large size and weight. Also, the fact that it will be mostly used outside means it needs a secure base which can be hard to find outdoors.
Other features:
Measures 6.77 x 8.31 x 8.07 inches and weighs five pounds.
Runs on 4 D batteries for up to 100 hours of use.
Class 2 laser.
Features a water-resistant design with an IP66 rating for outdoor use.
I hope this list of the best laser levels was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
I hope this list of the best laser levels was helpful.
If you think I left out one that is important or have a suggestion for a future article, let me know in the comments below.
Brandon Hubbard, AIA, NCARB, LEED AP BD+C
