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6 Best Laser Levels for Any Application – Reviews and Buying Guide

Name: DeWALT DW089K
Brand: DeWALT DW089K

A variety of laser levels for both professional usage and home applications.

Daniel

Writer

Daniel is among our most talented writers: based on the dull expert reports he's able to make up a comprehensive, reader-friendly article which anyone can benefit from. Also read more

Reviewed By

Tom

Tom

Expert Consultant

Initially being an engineering specialist, Tom has never stopped learning and acquiring other knowledge and skills. Now he’s involved in technical support for a well-known read more

Last updated: August 22, 2023

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Once I decided to hang a lovely framed photo of me and my wife on a wall using a regular level tool. The frame eventually fell down, as our marriage fell apart. Luckily, I used a laser level with my current wife to execute the same task, and it did amazing. Of course all of this was a joke, but the laser levels are truly superior to the regular ones.

But before picking the best laser level, you need to take into account a self-leveling feature, as the leveling process becomes so much easier with it. You should also consider how accurate it is, which significantly improves the user experience and end result. For professional usage you should focus on the range of the laser, because models with a range up to 500 feet that are mostly used in construction sites. We reviewed more than 40 models and came up with the 6 best ones, and the DeWALT DW089K earned its first place from them all.

Quick Summary

Editor’s Choice: DeWALT DW089K

"A solid product from one of the most trusted companies on the tool market, this multi-level 3-beam line laser can be used for almost any task; it’s easy to use, accurate, bright, features built-in magnetic pivot bracket and has long battery life"
Best Green Laser Level: DeWALT DW088LG

"The green color of this laser level increases visibility and is better for outside tasks; it’s debris and water resistant, features built-in rear mounted magnets and rechargeable 12V battery able to run for 8–14 hours"
Best Rotary Level: Topcon RL-H5A

"This horizontal rotary laser level is intended for large construction projects, but also can handle small outside and inside tasks; has outstanding range and leveling features and up to 100-hour battery life"
Most Portable Level: Bosch GLL 55

"This 2-beam cross-line laser is great for carrying around; its’ accurate, dust- and water-resistant, features L-shaped magnetic mount, and runs on 3AA batteries"
Best Magnetic Level: Pacific Laser Systems PLS-60588

"This 2-beam cross-line laser has the widest range with detector among all line lasers on our list; it comes with SLD laser detector, magnetic wall bracket, and floor stand"
Best Point Laser Level: Bosch GPL 3

"This 3-point laser level is the most affordable on our list and is great for self-leveling, plumb up and down, horizontal leveling, and alignment tasks; features Bosch-Patented Diamond-Cut Beam Splitter"

Top 6 Laser Levels Review 2024

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 5406 people in the past 30 days

Customer Feedback

9.9

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.9

Features & Benefits

Product Review

9.9

Features

3-beam line laser
Self-leveling (±4°)
Accuracy: ±1/8’’ at 30’
Visibility: 50ft
Range with detector: 165ft
Laser class: 2
2x brighter diode
Built-in magnetic pivot bracket
1-button operation and control panel
IP65 dust/water resistance
30-hour runtime (4 AA batteries)
3-year limited warranty; 1-year free service

This is a great laser that is, plain and simple, the best laser level available on the market today. It is built for professional construction work and is highly accurate. It features a simple to use, one-button operation system and an easy to read control panel. This makes it great for both professionals and beginners alike. It is extremely bright, which makes it simple to see.

The triple line laser makes it easy to layout sections of cabinets, studs, or chair rails quickly and easily, without the need for using any other sort of laser level. The adjustment knob is very precise and doesn’t need a lot of tuning to get your layout just right. The only real downside of this device is that it doesn’t have very strong magnets, though this is easily corrected by attaching a separate magnet. This truly is a wonderful level, which we highly recommend you check out.

What do we love it for?

Multi-level line laser
Very accurate
Easy to use
Long battery life
Self-leveling

What were we disappointed with?

Hard to keep steady on metal surfaces
Weak magnets

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 2798 people in the past 30 days

9.7

Customer Feedback

9.2

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.4

Features & Benefits

Product Review

9.6

9.7

Features

2-beam cross line laser
Self-leveling (±4°)
Accuracy: ±1/8’’ at 30’
Visibility: 100ft
Range with detector: 165ft
Laser class: 2
Green beam laser technology
Includes laser enhancement glasses
Built-in rear mounted magnets
IP65 debris/water resistance
12V MAX* battery
3-year limited warranty; 1-year free service

This is, relatively speaking, a rather straightforward laser level. While it doesn’t feature a ton of special features, what it does have going for it is the fact that it uses green lasers, rather than the standard red. This makes it visible for a much greater distance, regardless of where you are working. The downside to this added visibility is, as you might have guessed, that the battery will not last you as long as a red laser level does.

Luckily, even though level’s battery doesn’t last too terribly long, it is rechargeable. While this does add another layer of responsibility on your part, as long as you manage to charge it up every night after you use it, the level should be able to run for 8–14 hours, even on full blast.

What do we love it for?

Self-leveling
Rechargeable battery
The long range of visibility
High level of dust resistance
Rechargeable battery

What were we disappointed with?

Not completely water resistant
High cost
Short battery life

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 2233 people in the past 30 days

9.5

Customer Feedback

9.3

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

9.1

Features & Benefits

Product Review

9.0

9.5

Features

Horizontal rotary laser level
Self-leveling (±5°)
Accuracy: ±1/16″ or 1/8″ at 100ft
Range with receiver: 2,600ft
Wavelength: 635 nm
Manual single-axis leveling method
600 times per minute rotation
Laser Class-II
Battery life: up to 100 hours
IP66 rating
Slope matching
5-year warranty

If you are thinking about getting a rotating laser level, you might be stressed by the sheer number of models on the market. In reviewing these models, we have consider the Topcon RL-H5A and have found it to be one of the best models that you can buy right now.

There are older models of this option, but as this is the latest, it is no surprise that it comes with just so many better features. One major difference between this and the others is that it has a working range of up to 800 meters. That is impressive and better than others in its category.

The product is one of the easiest to setup too. All that you need to do is install the tripod or stand on a level surface and connect the level to it. Once you connect the device to the stand and switch it on, the self-leveling motors will level up the laser for you.

Another good feature here is the accuracy. After setting it up, it will self-level, and the motors responsible for this ensure that the machine is set correctly. You can expect really good accuracy levels from the machine.

Also, this model has a working range reaching 400 meters from the laser.

Durability is something we found pretty dope here too. The Topcon RL-H5A is rated IP66, which means that it will be safe from dust and water. Thus, you don’t have to worry about moisture and dust – two of the most insidious things that affect machines on jobsites.

What are our favorite features?

Durable
Easy to set up
Good accuracy
Wide working range

What could be better?

Requires yearly calibration
Expensive to repair

Also Product Ranking:

Our 1 pick for the: best Rotary Laser Level

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 8382 people in the past 30 days

9.0

Customer Feedback

8.7

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

8.8

Features & Benefits

Product Review

8.8

9.0

Features

2-beam cross line laser
Smart Pendulum System for self-leveling (±4°)
Accuracy: ±1/8’’ at 33ft
Visibility: 50ft
Range with detector: 165ft
Laser class: 2
L-shaped magnetic mount
IP54 dust/water resistance
3 AA batteries
2-year limited warranty

This is, without a doubt, one of the most portable laser levels on the market today. It is also highly durable and dependable, which makes it ideal for professionals and beginners alike. It is especially resistant to high-levels of dust, though it isn’t completely waterproof, so keep that in mind if this is the level you settle on.

It has an astounding range of 165’ when used with a detector, though this shrinks to 50’ of visibility indoors, which is just right for smaller jobs. However, the best feature for this level is that it is one of the fastest self-leveling lasers on the market. This, when compared against its portability and price point, make it an appealing level that you might want to give a try.

What are our favorite features?

Self-leveling
High level of dust resistance
Magnetic mount

What could be better?

Short range
Low level of water resistance

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 6052 people in the past 30 days

8.5

Customer Feedback

8.4

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

8.1

Features & Benefits

Product Review

8.3

8.5

Check price

Amazon

Features

2-beam cross line laser
Self-leveling
Point to point accuracy: ±1/4’’ at 100’
Crossline accuracy: ±1/8’’ at 30ft
Visibility: 50ft
Range with detector: 200ft
SLD laser detector included
Laser class: 2
Magnetic wall bracket and floor stand included
3 AA batteries
3-year warranty

The laser made by Pacific Laser Systems has, by far, the largest range with a detector of any laser level on the market today. It can reach all the way up to an astounding 200’ with a detector, which the company was kind enough to include in this kit. It can also be attached to metal wall brackets with magnets or to the included floor stand. That way, you are completely set to hit the ground running right out of the box.

The biggest downside to this model is that it is pretty expensive, and doesn’t have a very big range without the detector. It only can reach to about 50’ of visibility on its own, which should be ample for smaller jobs, but might not work too well for larger work, especially if you forget the detector.

What do we love it for?

Floor stand and magnetic wall bracket included
Self-leveling
Large range with detector

What were we disappointed with?

Short range without a detector

Consumer Engagement

Chosen by 8728 people in the past 30 days

8.5

Customer Feedback

8.4

Brand Reputation

Based onweb analytics

8.4

Features & Benefits

Product Review

8.4

8.5

Check price

Amazon

Features

3-point laser
Self-leveling (±5°)
Accuracy: ±1/4’’ at 100ft
Plumb up/down range: 30ft up, 15ft down
Horizontal range: 100ft
Laser class: 2
Bosch-Patented Diamond-Cut Beam Splitter
Water and dust proof
3 AA batteries
Pocket-sized and portable
2-year warranty

Bosch has long been known to be one of the best power tool companies around, and, as you would expect, this laser level is no different. Even though it is quite small and relatively cheap, don’t let that scare you away. It is highly accurate, with accuracies up to 100’ indoors. It is also highly portable, and quite dust resistant.

The biggest issue with this device is that the on/off switch did not always stay in the on position. While this is not the biggest deal, it is certainly something that you need to keep in the back of your mind. The last thing you want to do is have everything set up to get a job done only to notice that your level isn’t on like you wanted it to be. However, as long as you make sure that the switch is completely in the on position, you should be good to go.

What are its best features?

Large range
Portable
Water and dust resistant

What could be improved?

Only one brightness level
On/off switch works hard

Things to Consider

As we mentioned before, there are several different factors that you need to consider before you purchase your level so that you can assure yourself you are indeed getting the best laser level for your needs. In this section, we will go over everything you need to know, so you can make an informed decision when you finally pull the trigger on a purchase.

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.

[wpsm_box type=”blue” float=”none” text_align=”left”]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.[/wpsm_box]

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.

[wpsm_box type=”red” float=”none” text_align=”left”]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.[/wpsm_box]

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.

[wpsm_box type=”green” float=”none” text_align=”left”]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.[/wpsm_box]

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.

Conclusion

Laser levels are a huge upgrade over standard ones. They can automatically level themselves and allow you to setup perfectly level and square gridwork patterns, which in turn will make your life a lot easier when on the job. They are perfect for installing cutouts, studs, chair rails, cabinets, and the list goes on. Hopefully, after reading this article, you will be able to find the best laser level for whatever project you have in mind. Good luck!

Total Score

DeWALT DW089K - Editor’s Choice

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18 comments

Mikiro

Jul 17, 2018

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

Jack

Jul 17, 2018

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%

Sergey

Jul 18, 2018

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

Sergey

Jul 18, 2018

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.

Charles Brown

Jul 18, 2018

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.

Mike

Sep 13, 2018

I run a small contractor firm, what’s the best laser level for builders? Something not too bulky but still professional enough. Thanks!

Charles Brown

Sep 18, 2018

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

Chris Smith

Oct 20, 2018

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.

Nick Jackson

Sep 27, 2018

I’m actually not that much of a contractor, just need a level for, say, hanging pictures from time to time. Which is suitable?

Angela M

Sep 30, 2018

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…

Simon

Oct 30, 2018

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

Charles Brown

Oct 25, 2018

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

Arthur B.

Oct 23, 2018

hi I want to buy myself a laser level that can work in bad wather pls recomend one

Charles Brown

Oct 23, 2018

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

Lucas

Oct 24, 2018

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!

Caleb

Oct 27, 2018

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.

Caleb

Oct 27, 2018

I meant to say waterproof, sorry for the typo, lol 🙂

Oct 25, 2018

Any suggestions for landscaping? The Topcon seems suitable, anybody owns one?

6 Best Laser Levels for Any Application – Reviews and Buying Guide

Quick Summary

Top 6 Laser Levels Review 2024

DeWALT DW089K

DeWALT DW088LG

Topcon RL-H5A

Bosch GLL 55

Pacific Laser Systems PLS-60588

Bosch GPL 3

Things to Consider

Type

Self-leveling

Accuracy

Visibility

Range

Number of beams or spots

Color

Laser detectors/receivers

Ingres protection rating

Portability

Mounting system

Power source

Battery life

Conclusion