12 Best Laser Levels Tested for 2023

At some point, almost everyone needs to use a laser level. Whether you’re working on a project at home or at work, a laser level is essential for finding a level plane when installing shelves or even hanging pictures.

That’s where laser levels come in. They can provide a helping hand (or more like a guiding light) to make sure everything is level, equal, and flush before you have to pick up that hammer. And maybe you might be doing an even bigger project than just putting some frames on the wall. You could be remodeling a kitchen, and, though artsy, hanging cabinets at odd angles is just not an option.

12 Best Laser Levels Tested for 2023：Our choice

Laser levels provide accuracy, consistency, and convenience. The best self-leveling laser level can make all the difference and be easy to use. Laser levels can do everything a spirit or bubble level can do and much more by projecting a laser beam of light across an entire room or job site to provide a point of reference for projects.

1.Ryobi ELL1002 Air Grip Compact Laser Level

Pros

• Innovative and useful suction pump
• Includes mounting aid for various surfaces

Cons

• Laser light is on the weak side
• Suction function means turning device off and on to readjust
• Bubble levels aren’t backlit

I really enjoy the vacuum pump feature of this laser level. When you turn on the laser, it automatically turns on a tiny suction pump that allows you to attach the device to the wall. That means no marks left behind and no need for another set of hands.

This does affect its battery life compared to the other devices, but Ryobi says the power to the laser will die before the power to the suction, so the user doesn’t have to worry about it falling and breaking.

2.DEWALT 12V MAX Line Laser

What we love:

• It has a bright, visible laser line that is easy to see, even in direct sunlight.
• Very accurate.
• It is easy to use; just turn it on and point it in the direction you want the line to be.

We don’t like this as much:

• Limited visibility at long distances
• Cannot project a dot or line on vertical surfaces

DEWALT DW089LG Line Laser is perfect for various leveling and alignment applications. It offers a bright, visible laser line that is easy to see, even in direct sunlight. The laser line is self-leveling, so it is quick and easy to get started with your project. The DEWALT DW089LG Line Laser also features an automatic shut-off, which helps to conserve power. This laser can be used on various projects, including building construction and remodeling, Concrete formwork, Cross-cutting and edge-cutting applications, and site cleanup and grading.

3.BLACK+DECKER Line Laser

Product Specs

• Beam color: Red
• Planes: Horizontal line only
• Accuracy: Unknown

Pros

• Built-in stud finder
• Simple design
• Steadied quickly

Cons

• Requires poking a hole in the wall
• Only projects one direction

For those who don’t need all the features available on top-of-the-line models, the Black & Decker BDL190S is a nice option at an affordable price. This isn’t the type of laser level that’s capable of a major project or renovation, but for striking level lines when hanging pictures or shelves, it will get the job done.

This best budget laser level has some nice features, including a stud finder and electrical wire detection. The BDL190S comes with a hanger that attaches to the wall with a tack-like pin, and once hung, the laser will self-level. The downside of the Black & Decker is it requires the user to poke a small hole in the wall to mount it, which could be a deal-breaker for concrete or brick surfaces. Also, it only projects a horizontal line.

While testing, the Black & Decker served its purpose. It projected a perfectly self-leveled line to the left and right and steadied quickly. There was a section of the wall where the beam appeared to lighten and become a bit more challenging to see, but this is because there was a bow in the wall, and that’s typical of wall-mounted laser levels. Also, the beam finder was a nice touch and appeared to work well.

4.Self Leveling Laser Level

What We Like

• Vertical, horizontal, or cross lines
• Self-leveling
• 50-foot projection

What We Don’t Like

• Not great for outdoor use

A good laser level should give you options when trying to keep a surface straight. Different projections and features can make the job easier when you have a high degree of flexibility to use. The Tavool Self-Leveling Laser Level takes the top spot because of the flexibility it offers when your project requires straight lines on flat surfaces. This level can produce a bright horizontal, vertical, or cross line on any surface up to 50 feet away, meaning it can handle most rooms around the home, and projects as simple as hanging a picture to as complex as installing new kitchen cabinets or a tile floor.

The self-leveling feature takes a lot of the guess work out of setting the laser up. Once you have the laser positioned within four degrees of true level, the laser will take over to fine tune the final position. If you need to project something that is skewed, the lock mode will let you position the laser any way you need. And there’s no complicated instructions; just one top button to switch through the various laser settings.

5.CRAFTSMAN Laser Level and Stud Sensor

Pros

• Laser line is modestly bright
• Includes stud finder and live wire detector

Cons

• Design is cumbersome
• Only really useful for horizontal lines
• Mounting pin requires a hole in the wall

I was frankly baffled to see this laser level is the exact same as the Black & Decker BDL190S. Even down to the fake “screws” making it seem like the plastic casing of your laser level was hand-tightened together, and the knockoff batteries that went into the difficult-to-open compartment.

So as I used this product, I found I experienced the exact same issues as with the other multifunctional level. Truly, I have no idea how two competing companies can put out the same exact product without hitting copyright snags.

6.Topcon RL-H5A Self Leveling Horizontal Rotary Laser

What we love:

• Fast and easy setup
• Horizontal and vertical vials
• Long battery life

We don’t like this as much:

• Limited range
• Prone to interference

The Topcon RL-H5A is a horizontal rotary laser perfect for leveling and alignment tasks. It comes with a bonus EDEN field book, which makes it easy to take accurate measurements in the field. The laser has an automatic leveling system that ensures accuracy, and it can be set to rotate at either a slow or fast speed. It is also water-resistant, so you can use it even in the rain. The EOTECH 516nm is a powerful, handheld laser that is perfect for use in the field. It comes with a multi-function pen, allowing users to mark and measure things when not used on site.

7.Bosch GLL3-330CG

Product Specs

• Beam color: Green
• Planes: Horizontal and two vertical, all in a 360-degree direction
• Accuracy: 3/32 of an inch at 30 feet

Pros

• Multidirectional lasers
• Bluetooth connectivity for monitoring calibration
• Flexible battery sources

Cons

• It’s an expensive laser level

Shoppers who are looking for a level that can do it all and don’t mind spending quite a bit more on one of the best brands may want to consider the Bosch GLL3-330CG. This self-leveling model has a 360-degree horizontal plane laser and two 360-degree vertical plane lasers, providing a level line of reference for any job. The green laser is visible at ranges of up to a 330-foot diameter.

The GLL3-330CG’s premium features can actually go unnoticed. The level monitors its battery life and adjusts the beam for both optimal visibility and length of use. It also has internal sensors that detect bumps and drops and alerts to calibration issues.

The Bosch GLL3-330CG proved to be a serious piece of machinery during testing. I don’t have a way to measure its accuracy over other laser levels, but I had no reason to doubt that it’s more accurate than the rest (3/32 of an inch at 30 feet as opposed to ⅛-inch). The three 360-degree planes were easy to see and use.

After dropping the GLL3-330CG three times, it registered a calibration fault that required logging into the app to clear. This was more of a benefit than an issue as it was easy to clear and did warn of the shocks. Also, I like that this level offers flexible battery sources (rechargeable or replaceable). The only problem? While it’s the best 360-degree laser level on this list, the device is a bit expensive.

8.Johnson Level & Tool 40-0921

What We Like

• Includes tripod, case, and laser-enhancing glasses
• Cross lines
• Self-leveling
• Projects up to 100 feet

What We Don’t Like

• Expensive
• Not great for outdoor use

For something with more power, the Johnson Level & Tool 40-0921 is a professional-grade laser level that still fits in with DIY and weekend projects. The laser expands the usable range of the level to up to 100 feet indoors. This one is also a good option if your projects run long. One set of batteries will provide nearly 12 hours of continuous use.

The stable tripod base makes it easy to move the vertical or horizontal laser around as you work. When positioned near corner walls or surfaces, the horizontal laser will reach across both sides, providing a continuous line to work from around the corner. For multiple projects, this level makes transportation easy with a lightweight, 1.2-pound body and sturdy carrying case that will fit everything you need.

9.Spectra Precision LL100N Laser Level

What we love:

• It is lightweight and easy to use, making it perfect for DIYers.
• The laser level also has an automatic shut-off feature, which helps conserve battery life.
• High accuracy

We don’t like this as much:

• One is that the laser can be easily blocked by obstacles, such as walls or furniture.
• LL100N is not waterproof, so it cannot be used in rainy or damp conditions.

The Spectra Precision LL100N is a self-leveling laser level with an HR320 receiver, a C59 rod clamp, alkaline batteries, and a carry case. The laser ranges up to 650 feet and can be used for indoor and outdoor leveling applications. The HR320 receiver has an LCD screen that displays the level of the laser beam and its deviation from level.

The C59 rod clamp attaches to a surveyor’s rod and easily allows the user to measure horizontal distances. The alkaline batteries provide up to 30 hours of use. The carry case protects the laser level and accessories during transport or storage. The Spectra Precision LL100N laser level gives excellent value for money. It is very durable and has long battery life. This laser level is also easy to use and has a bright beam that can be seen easily in all lighting conditions.

10.360° Red Self-Leveling Cross Line Laser Level

Product Specs

• Beam color: Red (though green is available)
• Plane: 360-degree cross line laser level (horizontal and vertical)
• Accuracy: 3/16 inch at 30 feet

Pros

• Self-leveling laser level
• Easy to set up
• Decent build quality
• Steadies quickly

Cons

• Tripod is low quality

Every DIYer has different needs, and a high-end, expensive, heavy-duty laser level isn’t always a priority. For those who’d prefer something a bit more light-duty and affordable, the SKIL Self-Leveling 360-degree cross line laser level is worth a look.

The SKIL has all the features necessary, including horizontal and vertical lasers as well as 360-degree coverage, but with a little less fit-and-finish look. The result is a capable yet minimalist laser level at a lower price, and it even comes with a tripod for setting it at any height.

The SKIL was the surprise of the hands-on testing. It truly is a capable light-duty model. For its price and intended use, it’s well built and durable while being very simple to set up and use. It also steadied very quickly. While the tripod wasn’t of the highest quality, it was one of the only setups in the test that allowed for positioning the laser at an angle.

11.Klein Tools 93LCLS Laser Level

Product Specs

• Beam color: Red
• Planes: Horizontal and vertical, with plumb spots
• Accuracy: Unknown

Pros

• Plumb-spot finder is fast
• Over-built and durable
• Fast, simple setup

Cons

• Doesn’t feature a 360-degree plane

For a professional-grade laser, the Klein Tools 93LCLS Laser Level ticks most of the boxes, but has some features that the other models don’t. The Klein Tools 93LCLS has both vertical and horizontal beams, but it also features a plumb-spot finder that projects above and below the level, which can be a real asset when installing conduit, piping, or drop ceilings.

This device features several mounting options, including a magnetic mount with a 360-degree swivel and a specialized mount for drop ceiling tracks. The 93LCLS falls short when it comes to a constant 360-degree laser, but the ability to swivel it on the mount while maintaining level helps to offset that shortcoming. The variety of mounting options makes it incredibly versatile.

Testing the 93LCLS Laser Level revealed the Klein to be an over-built, sturdy, reliable laser level. The laser is very easy to see, and the plumb spot is a feature I wish I’d had on several recent projects since it’s far faster to use than an actual plumb bob or level. The setup was also very simple. The one con with this particular level is, for the price, it should probably offer a 360-degree beam.

12.Multipurpose Laser tape measure Line 8ft

What We Like

• Cross lines
• Includes tape measure and bubble level
• Inexpensive

What We Don’t Like

• Not self-leveling
• Not great for outdoor use
• Some complaints about dead batteries

If you are looking for a good budget option to use around the house every once in a while—maybe you’re finally going to hang that decorative mirror or artwork—the MICMI A80 is hard to beat. Better still, you get a lot for a little with this tool. Beyond the highly accurate laser level, this one also comes with a three-axis bubble level and eight-foot-long measuring tape.

The body is light enough to easily be handled when manually measuring or leveling. The tape measure comes with both metric and imperial markings. The triple positioned bubble level is a great addition if you want to double check your leveling work after you have finished.

What to Consider When Choosing the Best Laser Level

Options for the best laser level will vary greatly in each product’s accuracy, features, and ease of use. Before selecting a laser level for your needs, consider the intended use for your level and the type of beams required.

Red vs. Green Laser

It might not be obvious, but the colors on laser levels make a big difference. There are two options—red and green—and they each have their pros and cons.

• Red lasers are less powerful but use far less battery life. These lasers are also less expensive to purchase, which is why many of the best models on the market continue to rely on red laser beams.
• Green lasers are more visible from a greater distance and easier to use for outside projects in sunlight. However, they’re also more expensive and potentially more damaging to users’ eyes than a red laser.

For these reasons, many pros own both red and green lasers and use them for projects that play to their strengths.

Accuracy

A hallmark of any good level is accuracy, whether it’s a spirit level or a high-tech laser model. The best laser levels will list a degree of accuracy on the packaging or in the manual. For a rule of thumb, however, look for a model with less than ⅛-inch deviation at 30 feet for truly dialed-in results.

However, keep in mind that the best self-leveling laser will give the most accurate laser level line than DIYers can achieve with a spirit option. The act of holding a spirit level perfectly and completely level is very difficult, though the end results tend to be sufficient. Laser levels operate on a similar principle while increasing accuracy.

Beam Orientation

One of the most important features of any high-quality laser level is the beam orientation option. Depending on the budget, there are models with up to three orientation planes: two vertical dual-beam lasers and one horizontal, and one or more of those planes might be 360 degrees.

While the usefulness of the horizontal and vertical beams is obvious, the best 360-degree laser level’s practicality cannot be overstated. A 360-degree beam can help hang an entire room’s worth of pictures quickly and accurately, or it can help the user dig perfectly level sections of the yard. Also, for projects like drop ceilings, having the most accurate laser level on hand is critical to the strength of the finished product.

Self-Leveling

The best laser levels on the market make leveling a push-and-play procedure. Most models with self-leveling technology use a laser on a pendulum in conjunction with magnets to provide stability. Once placed on a relatively flat surface, the pendulum takes over and achieves the final degree of level. This makes setting up fast and easy, especially if there is an existing reference point to register against.

Many laser levels with a self-leveling feature also lock the pendulum in place when not in use. This helps reduce the risk of calibration issues while transporting the laser level, and it can be a big help in getting the most out of a level.

Mounting

One of the most useful aspects of laser levels is that they allow the user to work essentially hands-free. Once set up, they’re designed to be left alone while the project continues on, using the laser line as a point of reference.

The best laser levels use different mounts and features to achieve this set-and-forget function. Some of the less expensive models might simply poke small pins into drywall for support. Other models will come with tripods or mounts that attach to metal studs or drop ceiling tracks. When purchasing a laser level, consider its intended use and which mounting accessories might be necessary to ensure compatibility.

What You Should Know About Laser Levels

Something I discovered quickly about the world of laser levels is that they can be grouped into several categories. There are handhelds, which are compact and simple for smaller projects. There are also professional-style levels, which project the lines onto the work surface from behind the user. And then there are multifunctional levels, which include other features like a stud finder and a live wire detector.

Handheld Levels

Handhelds are perfect for someone who doesn’t need many bells and whistles for their project. You might, say, attach them temporarily to the wall if you’re hanging picture frames in a gallery wall. They are more inexpensive than the others, but they also require more out of the user, like reading bubble levels to make sure the device is level.

Their lasers are weaker in brightness, and it doesn’t help you have to hold them against the wall, so if there’s an imperfection on the wall, like a bump or a wallpaper seam, the line can get interrupted. I also found that I had to change my approach to hanging pictures with these units. If I hung a hook closer to the device, I would block the rest of the light, so I had to go backwards and start on the opposite end, working towards the light.

Professional-Style Levels

The professional-style levels aren’t held up against the wall, but sit across from the work surface and project their lines onto it. These devices have a mounting thread on the bottom so they can sit on a tripod, or attach to their own mounting bracket. I can see this coming in handy for someone renovating a bathroom or kitchen in their house and they’re strictly measuring horizontal and vertical lines.

These devices also have a pendulum inside so gravity automatically levels the laser. Any time the ground moves, like if someone takes a step nearby, the projected lines will bounce, so you’ll need some patience with these units.

If the user needs to measure a straight-line at a slant, most of the devices allow you to lock the pendulum in place and turn the device, though the line will flash off and on every few seconds to let you know the lines aren’t level.

Multifunctional Levels

The multifunctional levels included a stud finder and a live wire detector, so they are helpful if you don’t want to buy multiple tools to do a single job. They also have a self-leveling feature, but it only works horizontally. If you want to measure a vertical line, you have to turn the device counterclockwise and eyeball how straight you think the line is. If you turn it clockwise, the line disappears entirely.

These levels are cumbersome to handle since they contain electronic sensors. It was difficult to get them to stay in place—I had to wedge them against the wall, lean them against other objects, or get another set of hands entirely just to hold them up. They were the most expensive devices we tested, yet the most challenging to work with.

Reasons to buy a laser level

These are the biggest reasons why you should invest your hard-earned money in a quality laser level.

Accuracy

Laser levels are amazingly accurate. Even the not-so-good ones have better accuracy than other primitive leveling methods. Some high-end laser levels are accurate within a tiny fraction of an inch from distances as large as 30 feet. Additionally, as long as you take care of your laser level, this incredible accuracy will remain consistent for years to come.

Efficiency

Laser levels are much faster to work with than traditional leveling methods. Sure, setting up a tripod, mounting the laser level, turning it on, waiting for it to self-level does take some time. But, this setup time is negligible in front of the time you’ll save in the long run. The only instance where something like a spirit level would be more efficient is if you’re working on something very small, like hanging a single frame on the wall.

Accuracy with scale

Laser beams are perfectly straight, no matter if they are a few feet long or a few dozen. A quality laser level will project the laser at the same height from one end of a room to the other. On the other hand, trying to level anything larger than a photo frame with a foot-long spirit level will most likely result in many inaccuracies. These inaccuracies get even worse when you have to pick up and place the spirit level in multiple locations. The slight mismeasurements from each attempt add up quickly and make the end result crooked.

How We Tested the Best Laser Levels

At its basic purpose, a laser level projects a line onto a surface that the user can reference, and it would make sense that accuracy would be the baseline of this test. But it wasn’t. Testing modern laser levels for accuracy is almost laughable, as even the most affordable model is more accurate than the human eye can tell (particularly with a bubble level).

Instead, the more critical factors, such as how well the laser line showed, how easy the levels were to set up, using the different features, and, ultimately, a durability test were the main focuses of this review. I set up each level to compare their accuracy (quickly), their beams, and their features. Then, the shocking part: I purposely dropped them on the ground.

Laser levels are somewhat precision instruments, but drops are entirely possible during a project. I dropped all the levels from the height of a sawhorse, all at once, three times. It broke my heart a bit to purposely abuse these tools, but I did it in the name of science.

What does the IP rating on my laser level mean?

Ingress Protection (IP) ratings are used to explain how well a casing or enclosure withstands damage from solids and liquids. After the “IP” letters, you’ll see two numbers. The first number indicates how well the casing withstands solids, and the second indicates how well it withstands liquids. The solid number goes up to six, and the liquid number goes up to eight. A common IP rating you’ll see for laser levels is IP54. This rating means that the product can withstand water splashes and dust.

Can I damage my eyes by looking at the laser in my level?

The lasers used in your level are either Class 2 or Class 3, which aren’t strong enough to cause serious damage to your eyes. Class 2 lasers only cause injury if you look at them under magnification, while Class 3 lasers can cause temporary flash blindness if you look directly at the light coming from the device.

What type of battery do laser levels use?

Most of the affordable options use AA or AAA batteries. However, larger laser levels may use a 12-volt battery that’s similar to the one you find in cordless drills or other power tools.

What laser level do I need?

There is no one-size-fits-all answer to this question, as the laser level you need depends on the specific applications you need it for. However, there are three main types of laser levels: manual, automatic, and self-leveling. Manual laser levels are suitable for basic applications like checking levels or transferring a line from one point to another. They are typically the cheapest option, but they can be challenging to use for more complex projects.

There are a few things you need to consider when choosing a laser level. First, what will you be using it for? Second, how much can you afford to spend? Third, what are your laser level requirements? There are different types of laser levels for other applications. A basic rotary laser level is a good option if you’re starting. It’s versatile and can be used for a variety of tasks. It’s also relatively affordable.

What are better, red or green lasers?

The two colors of lasers, red and green, have different properties that can make one better than the other in specific applications. Red lasers are typically more powerful and can be used for long-distance applications, while green lasers are better for pointing out objects because of their bright beam. In general, red lasers are better for pointing and directing beams, while green lasers are better for illumination.

What is a 3-point laser level used for?

A 3-point laser level is used to help with construction and leveling. The lasers are set at specific angles, and when they are all lined up, it creates a perfect level plane. This can help with construction tasks like hanging drywall or making a smooth surface to lay tile. It can also ensure that shelves and other objects are installed evenly in a room.

What is a 5-point laser level used for?

A 5-point laser level is a device used to create horizontal and vertical lines. It emits a laser beam that can be seen as a bright red dot, which can be used to help position objects correctly. The level can be rotated to ensure that the beam is perpendicular to the surface on which it is projected. It creates a straight line that can be used as a guide for leveling or plumb lines. Additionally, it is used to help in the alignment of objects.

How does a laser level work?

The word “laser” is an acronym for Light Amplification by the Stimulated Emission of Radiation. While the science is a bit complicated, basically, that means that lasers emit radiation in the form of visible light. In the case of a laser level, that radiation light is emitted by an LED (light-emitting diode) semiconductor, and then tightly focused by use of an internal mirror or prism into an intense beam of light.

How do you use a laser level to hang pictures?

If you are just hanging a single lightweight picture on the wall, you don’t really need a laser level. But if you are hanging several pictures in a row, are hanging a single heavy mirror or picture that requires multiple nails to secure it in place, or are hanging pictures along an incline, such as over a staircase, then you’ll find a laser level makes the job far easier than eyeballing it or relying on a measuring tape and pencil.

To hang pictures with a laser level, first, determine where you want to hang your pictures and the desired layout. Next, use your laser level to cast a beam of light onto the wall where the pictures are to be hung.

If you want the tops or bottoms of the pictures to be aligned, you’ll need to measure the distance from the hanging hook or wire on the back of the artwork to the top or bottom edge. Now measure that distance above or below the beam of light to indicate where you’ll need to place nails.

If you’re aligning your artwork by the midpoint of each picture, you’ll need to measure the height of the artwork and divide it by two to come up with its midpoint. Now, measure the length from that midpoint to the hanging wire or bracket on the back of the picture. Finally, use your ruler to find that measurement above the laser beam and make small pencil markings to mark each spot where you’ll hammer in a nail. Then, hammer in the nails and hang your artwork.

How do you use a laser level without a tripod?

While a tripod makes it easy to keep your laser level steady, it’s not impossible to use without one. You can set the laser level on a chair, table, cabinet, or any other flat surface that’s across the room from the wall where you want to beam the light. You might need to use books or other items to raise the laser level up to the appropriate height.

Is it worth getting a laser level?

Whether it’s for DIY jobs or for professional use, laser levels are worth getting. For most purposes, they’re more than accurate enough, and the setup time and consistency can make short work of a long project.

Do laser levels measure distance?

A laser level does not measure distance, only if a surface is even.

How often should you calibrate a laser level?

If you use your laser level regularly, recalibration should be done every 6 months.

Do laser levels work outside?

Laser levels can always be used outdoors.

Can I see a laser level in daylight?

Be advised that daylight may limit the visibility of the beams so green beams may be best for outdoor use.