Are you on the market for a laser level for precise alignment for your projects? In this guide, we reviewed different laser levels to address your levelling needs, ranging from compact handheld models to advanced rotary laser options.
Backed by years of expertise in the home improvement field, count on our firsthand testing to guide you in selecting the ideal laser level for achieving precision in your projects.
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Top Pick
Best laser Levels for 2024
Product | Our Rating | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|
1. KAIWEETS KT360A Self Leveling Laser |  | | |
2. Cigman CM701 Self Levelling Laser Level |  | ||
3. DeWalt DCE089D1G-XE 3 x 360°Green Beam Line Laser Level |  | ||
4. Milwaukee M123PLA-0C 12V 3 Plane Laser |  | ||
5. Firecore 4V1H 5 Green Beam Cross Line Laser Level |  | ||
6. Bosch Self-Levelling Cross Line Laser Set |  | ||
7. Dewalt DW088CG-XJ 2-Way Cross Line Laser Level |  |
Laser Level Buyers’ Guide
What is a Laser Level?
Laser levels are electric hand tools designed to make finding balanced and level surfaces easier for busy contractors, and help DIY jobs run more smoothly with neater results.
While every laser level is different, and there are many variations on the basic single beam designs, they all have one thing in common – directional beams that stay steady.
In the reviews later we’ll talk about some more specific types, but for the most part, they are static boxes that establish their own level as long as they are placed on a roughly flat surface.
Because they provide a constant laser line they can be left in place while you get on with other tasks, so you don’t have to constantly measure and re-measure.
How do Laser Levels Work?
Laser levels work by using an internal plumb line. A plumb line is a weighted mechanism that helps establish the centre of gravity, and thanks to the perfectly balanced internal lasers, that centre of gravity is always directly down.
Traditional plumb lines were done using string and weights, and we still use them today when dropping wallpaper, or finding basic verticals, but they require nails, which can be a pain to clean up when you’re decorating already finished rooms.
By employing inbuilt plumb lines it can give accurate vertical and horizontal levels.
Considerations When Buying a Laser Level
There are a few basic things to look for when buying one, but most importantly, make sure it’s a laser level and not just a straight line pointer. You can get laser pointers for decorating that help establish straight lines for neat finishes, but they don’t provide levels.
Laser levels need either a traditional bubble level or a plumb line to establish horizontal levels to some degree of accuracy. It’s also important to think about what you will need it for.
If you’re just hanging pictures, for example, then you’ll be fine with a horizontal level, or a flush laser level that either sits on a surface opposite or can be attached to the wall itself.
But for more complex constructions, you’ll need multidirectional tools that help align verticals and horizontals.
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Types of Laser Level
Rotary Laser Level
These are the most common types in the construction industry and provide incredibly accurate guides, but make sure they have a well-rated plumb line. Poor manufacturing can mean that levels quickly become unusable.
For rotary types, it’s also really important to choose one that comes with a tripod if you don’t already have a tripod. This type rely on steady ground and sitting central to a space.
Line Laser Level
Line Lasers come in a few different forms, from simple lasers which attach to walls for steady picture hanging and plumb lines, to 360 lasers with multidirectional lines that can provide accurate horizontals with a direct relationship to the vertical level too.
Personally, I always prefer line levels as there is less that can go wrong, and they tend to last a little bit longer than rotary types.
How to Use a Laser Level
Most laser levels these days are self-levelling, but that doesn’t mean you can lie them on the ground and hope for the best. Even self-levelling types need reasonably flat ground to work from as its maximum self-levelling range is 6°.
- Start by clearing the space you intend to set up the level (this might be a wall, a post, or an area of reasonably level ground.
- Set up the tripod or wall mount so it is level to the eye.
- Attach your laser level to its mount and turn it on.
For line lasers, check the level (it will usually flash or display an indicator if it’s not level).
For rotary lasers, it’s usually pretty easy to spot an uneven laser as the line will fluctuate at corners of the room. - When the line is level, mark your workspace.
- Leave it switched on for accuracy while you work. It helps to mark every out in advance in case vibrations shift the level slightly, or the battery dies.
Laser Levels Safety Guide
There is only one real safety measure, and that is to not look directly at them. Lasers are notoriously bad for our eyesight and can cause temporary blindness and even permanent damage to our eyes.
For maximum safety, you should wear protective goggles while using it at all times, but if that’s not possible, you should turn the laser off when it’s not in use to reduce the risk of accidents.
Laser Level Reviews
1. KAIWEETS KT360A Self Leveling Laser
KAIWEETS KT360A
Kaiweets' three-beam laser level provides near-perfect accuracy on three different 360-degree plains, to help design and finish interior rooms, or level up ground for outdoor works.
Its bright lasers are ideal for both indoor and outdoor settings, with high visibility even in bright daylight. And to add to an already extensive list of benefits, this laser level has an astonishing 20 hours of battery life, supported by reasonably fast charging too.
Check out our full review of the Kaiweets Laser Level KT360A for more details.
Pros
Cons
2. Cigman CM701 Self Levelling Laser Level
Cigman’s multi-directional laser level offers accurate measurements with up to 30 m of brightness, and only a 2 mm discrepancy over a 10 m distance.
With three laser lines, all set at an exact 90 degree angle to the other, you can mark out entire rooms in minutes from a single set up. If you’re looking for a laser level that can save you time and money, from a reputable and trusted brand, this has to be it.
Read our full review of the CM701 laser level for more details.
Pros
Cons
For Amazon, there's usually a $30 coupon for those potential buyers on product page. So I'm not able to offer an additional discount currently.
$3 off discount code: MLWTJRR8XX1I (Available when ordering from AliExpres)
3. DeWalt DCE089D1G-XE Green Beam Line Laser Level
DeWalt DCE089D1G-XE
Firstly, remember what we said earlier – green lights are perfect for indoor work, and much more visible in low light, but can be troublesome in the garden for obvious reasons.
However, this green light type from DeWalt is ideal for 99% of construction sites, easy to mount, and comes with a good range of safety gear too.
The sturdy case is impact resistant, and so is the tool itself, which includes a wall mounting kit as well as a click-on mounting socket for tripods and frames.
Pros
Cons
4. Milwaukee M123PLA-0C 3 Plane Laser
Milwaukee M123PLA-0C
There’s no tool range that Milwaukee won’t touch, and we’re thankful for it. Their compact laser leveller is ideal for mounting to vertical surfaces, flat on the floor, or on a tripod,
Its multi-directional lasers offer horizontal and vertical levelling in all directions making it ideal for setting up structures from scratch, or laying new walls and fences.
Pros
Cons
5. Firecore 4V1H 5 Green Beam Laser Level
Firecore 4V1H
Firecore’s rotary laser is far easier to install and use than most rotary types, and compatible with any tripod, as well as coming with its own basic stand built in.
The big bonus with this kit is that it includes a remote receiver so you can easily change its settings without having to manually turn it on and off.
While it is self-levelling, I was slightly disappointed with its range, as it’s only able to adjust up to +/- 3 degrees, which is only half the range of some much cheaper alternatives.
What you do get with the draper though is a much sturdier tool that’s impact-resistant, vibration resistant, and has super long-lasting battery life.
Pros
Cons
6. Bosch Self-Levelling Laser Set
Bosch Self-Levelling Laser Set
If you need an adaptable self-levelling laser level, this is one of the best budget models you’ll find. It's not the cheapest on the market by a long shot, but for serious tasks, and varied uses, this is the best I’ve found.
While the Bosch self-levelling laser is automatically set to be levelling to within 4 degrees (making it the most accurate tool in its price range) you can also twist it on a diagonal which automatically turns off self-levelling so it can be used as a straight edge for painting and decorating in all directions.
And unlike a lot of other brands who build laser levels designed for use with a tripod, this one is actually sold with a tripod (a frustratingly rare event).
Pros
Cons
7. Dewalt DW088CG-XJ Laser Level
Dewalt DW088CG-XJ
For something a little more affordable compared to more expensive models, check out the Dewalt DW088CG-XJ. It’s compact but well built, and super accurate.
It does have a slight lag while levelling, which means it takes 3 seconds to get a proper level displayed, but for the price, it’s a brilliant tool.
Pros
Cons
Our Laser Level Top Picks for 2024
Top Rated
Kaiweet’s three-beam laser level provides near-perfect accuracy on three different 360-degree plains, to help design and finish interior rooms, or level up ground for outdoor works.
Its bright lasers are ideal for both indoor and outdoor settings, with high visibility even in bright daylight. And to add to an already extensive list of benefits, this laser level has an astonishing 20 hours of battery life, supported by reasonably fast charging too.
Laser Level Frequently Asked Questions
Which laser level is best?
Of all the laser levels we’ve tested, DeWalt makes the best. Dewalt’s 12v cordless green beam laser is affordable, easy to use, and accurate. For DIYers, it also comes with safety glasses to get started with minimal risk.
Are laser levels worth the money?
They are worth buying, whether it’s for professional or DIY use because they save time. Whether you’re trying to get a quick task done between layers of paint, or saving time on construction sites, laser levels are well worth the money.
What are the different types of laser levels?
There are three different types of laser levels: line laser levels, dot laser levels, and rotary laser levels. Each has its own purpose, and all come in multiple standards (including 360 lasers, 2-way lasers, and 3-way lasers.
How accurate are cheap laser levels?
You might be surprised to know that most laser levels are accurate to within about 4 degrees, even at distance. Bubble levels, rather than automatic laser levels, are only inaccurate due to human error, so cheap laser levels can be just as accurate as auto levels, depending on how you use them.
What color is best for a laser level?
Choosing the right color laser for your laser level depends on where you plan on using it. Green lasers are designed to be used in broad daylight, while red lasers are more visible indoors, and in dark conditions.
What is the biggest danger of using a laser level?
By far the biggest danger of using a laser level is eye damage. Lasers at any strength can damage your eyes, so wear eye protection and take care of others on construction sites when using lasers for any purpose.
Can you point a laser level up?
Laser levels can be pointed in most directions, and most single-line laser levels can be used vertically and horizontally against walls. Straight-line lasers are the easiest to use in this way, but do be careful when moving active lasers around any space to avoid contact with eyes.
Can you use a laser level to tile a floor?
Laser levels can be used to tile a floor, but I personally prefer to use solid levels which means the firm structure can produce an accurate and flush finish.
In the absence of manual spirit levels, laser levels can be used to tile a floor.
Is a green laser level or red laser level better?
Red laser levels are not as bright as green laser levels, but they are more visible in bright light outdoors. Green lasers are the most visible indoors and have the longest range, so are generally considered better, but it depends on the use and the site. Green lasers also use more energy.
Is a laser level more accurate than a spirit level?
Laser levels are generally considered to be more accurate than spirit levels, but the main difference is between machine and human error.
Most have a margin of error of 1-4°, and while traditional laser levels are 100% accurate every time, they are reliant on users to read them correctly so are more likely to give inaccurate results.
Did you find this article informative? If so, then you will love to read our product reviews and buying guides below for DIYers such as yourself.
Get the Best Laser Level for Your Needs
Whatever you’re building, it’s always a good idea to make sure it’s accurate and considering that laser levels are much more accurate than the human eye, I’d very much suggest investing in one now.
I hope our guide points you in the right direction when you’re looking for the best laser level, but if not, at least now you’re a little bit more familiar with the workings of these clever machines.
Published on March 30, 2023 by Gary Clarke
Last Updated on October 7, 2024
