The best laser levels of 2020 – comparative and guide

Do you take five hours to hang a simple shelf? Do you get on your nerves when you see a crooked picture? Do the bathroom tiles fall to pieces?

Well before you even think about taking measurements, keep the spirit level in a drawer and forget about the line.

Your inner handyman is crying out for a laser level in the toolbox. A surprisingly easy to use tool, which will allow you to project straight lines on walls and ceilings … and, for a little more complicated work, mark crosses to combine different elements, follow diagonals to place a handrail or take plumb lines with a perfect verticality.

If you are a professional, we do not need to explain the drama of being wrong with the level in a major work, and how much this simple tool will make your life easier.

If yours are the homemade sloppiness and do not skip a program of Bricomanía, prepare to face new challenges with the peace of mind that, at least, your final work will be balanced.

The 10 best laser levels of 2019

Below you will find a list of the best laser levels that can be found on the market today due to their characteristics, their quality / price ratio and the assessments of experts and users.

Comparison table

Here you can see all our recommended models, so you can compare their features at a glance.

Note: if you use the mobile, move the table with your finger to see all the columns.

Nº	Model	Self-Leveling	Working Range	Measuring Accuracy	Laser Color	Laser Type	Price
10	Black and Decker BDL220S	-	10ft	-	Red	Class 2	Check Price
9	Bosch GLL 30		30ft	5/16-Inch at 30 feet	Red	Class 2	Check Price
8	Stanley Cubix		40ft	5/16-Inch	Red	Class 1	Check Price
7	Huepar 9011G		100ft	1/9 inch at 33 feet	Green	Class 2	Check Price
6	TackLife SCL03		100ft	1/8 inch at 33 feet	Green / Red	Class 2	Check Price
5	Bosch GCL 2-15		15m	0.3mm/m	Green	Class 2	Check Price
4	Bosch GLL 55		50ft	1/8-Inch at 33 ft	Red	Class 2	Check Price
3	Makita SK104Z		50ft	horizontal line (+/- 1/8" at 30') vertical line (+/- 3/32" at 30')	Red	Class 2	Check Price
2	DEWALT DW088K		165ft	1/4 inch accuracy at 100 feet	Red	Class 2	Check Price
1	LEICA LINO L2		50ft 100ft (detector)	1 mm at 5 m	Red	Class 2	Check Price

Models Analysis

10. BLACK+DECKER BDL220S

The first proposal of our top 10 list is this Black and Decker BDL120-XJ: a very basic tool that combines the typical spirit level with laser striping.

It is precisely in this simplicity lies its strength: the Black and Decker BDL220S gives just what it promises and fulfills left over for operations and basic DIY home.

Hanging pictures or shelves, decorative objects, curtain rods … everything that needs a horizontal or vertical alignment is placed without complications thanks to its two leveling bubbles. However, if the idea is to do a little more complicated work, such as tiling, it is possible that this tool falls short.

It is important to bear in mind that the laser does not allow cross projections, that is, the lines can not be combined in both directions: it only shows the horizontal or the vertical. Nor is it self-leveling, which means that it must be placed very well, guided by the bubbles to achieve an accuracy of ± 1 mm in 3 m, maximum distance of the lines.

The laser rotates 360 ° on the wall to generate a line at any angle. To do this, it has a coupling in the form of a folding nail for walls of plaster or masonry (which will leave a small mark).

By combining the typical spirit level with laser striping, the Black and Decker BDL120-XJ is a basic tool and accurate, with the assurance of a recognized brand intended for occasional use in simple jobs. Handymen with more ambitious aspirations will find more appropriate suggestions in higher positions on our list.

9. Bosch GLL 30

The Bosch GLL 30 is Bosch’s proposal for homemade hands: a simple laser level, with basic functions and a good result for domestic work that does not require a more complicated tool.

The housing has a cube shape, with a lid that serves as protection in displacements and as a blocker. As soon as it is lifted, the tool is turned on and projects two crossed lines in the shape of a cross.

This allows you to work horizontally and vertically, but always displaying both references, since the device does not allow them to be displayed separately.

It is striking that the level of precision specified by the manufacturer is 5/16-Inch at 30 feet, when others of similar ranges are around 2/16 in. However, in practice it seems a fairly precise level, with a reasonable margin of error and a good general functioning.

It serves as self-leveling and also allows to align inclined objects, tracing diagonals to place handrails, borders, decorative vinyls, etc. It also includes a clamp holder with which you can set the level to objects with a thickness of between 0.4 and 2.4 inches, type door frame, chair back, ladder rung, shelf …

With a range of only 30ft, the Bosch GLL 30 is clearly designed for home work, indoors and not very large. If we move in this type of affordable projects, with this tool the domestic DIY will be much simpler and faster.

8. STANLEY Cubix

With a very affordable price, the model STHT1-77340 of the brand Stanley is a simple cross laser that projects two lines, vertical and horizontal, with a range of 40 ft. It is designed for handymen looking for basic functions without complicating with more technical details.

Precisely for that reason it is very simple to take advantage of it. The ease of use is evident, starting with its characteristic cube shape, which provides a very stable base for self-leveling: once placed on a more or less flat surface, the device itself adjusts itself only to give us the level, without us having that accommodate the position manually. If the level is too far from horizontal, the laser simply goes out.

This “auto” function is optional, since straight lines can be projected in any position, allowing to place elements diagonally, such as a handrail, or project lines on the ceiling to install lamps, for example, or embed lights in a row.

The laser projects the lines in red; however, the power of light will only allow us to do work indoors and in moderately small spaces, such as the rooms of a house or a domestic garage.

The cube has slots to fit the Quicklink support, which allows you to adapt the level to different positions or surfaces. This base has the shape of a clamp, is simple and perfectly fulfills to hook any rule, table, door frame, etc. If you prefer, the Stanley can be attached to a photographic tripod, the typical screw.

In summary, this is a basic and very practical tool, designed for occasional work, home projects and Do It Yourself experiments.

7. Huepar 9011G

In contrast to the usual red laser of most brands, the level 901G of Huepar opts for the green color, which increases visibility even outdoors. For this, it incorporates optical technology from the German brand Osram, specializing in lighting solutions.
Hence, the manufacturer ensures that the scope of the projected lines reaches up to 100ft, a large figure for a laser level of this price. In practice this number is reduced a little, but it is true that in low light conditions (a cloudy day) its cross lines are seen more than other red laser models.

The margin of error is the usual at a level of this type (0.12in for 33ft) and the rest of the characteristics remain within what is expected: the self-leveling function offers a margin of error of 4 ° to draw horizontal and vertical lines; this function can also be blocked to project straight lines at an angle, for example following the line of a staircase.

The functions are basic and easy to use, with a button for everything plus a switch for the blocking function.

The 9011G is cube-shaped, with a shock-resistant rubber housing and IP54 protection against dust and water. It includes a magnetic pointing card that will help us draw the lines at a greater distance without losing accuracy, and a support in L, also magnetic, to facilitate its use on metal surfaces.

In general, the Huepar 9011G is very similar in form and performance to the Stanley Cubix, although with a slightly higher price, which is explained thanks to the green laser and the greater range of the lines.

6. Tacklife SC L03

The Tacklife brand has made a niche in the market thanks to the good ratings of Amazon users, the only channel where they market their products.

One of the most interesting features of the SC L03 model is the possibility of varying the display mode of the laser, which changes color (interior mode in red, exterior mode in blue) to increase visibility. Realistically, for the price it has, we can not expect it to work in luxury outdoors, but it is better than other, even more expensive levels.

The lines can be drawn in three modes: horizontal to 360 °, vertical to 130 ° and cross. It has a range of 100ft, and is compatible with a receiver, which increases the distance up to 200ft. The error range is the usual, 0.12in by 33ft.

The leveling works in manual or automatic mode, and can be locked to mark lines diagonally, without annoying flickers.

Thanks to the rotating magnetic support it can be attached to metal columns, it also has a mobile anchor and different thread sizes to attach to external supports or standard tripods.

The housing includes IP 54 protection, which keeps it safe from dust, fundamental in a work, and gives it a certain seal. The shopping cart also has a protective bag.

In short, the Tacklife SC L03 offers surprisingly high performance for the price at which it is offered. Even so, for about 30/40 $ more, there is a superior version that allows to trace the horizontal and vertical lines to 360 °. It’s the Tacklife SC-L04.

And, if what you want is something really simple, you have the SC-L01.

5. Bosch GCL 2-15

The laser level GCL 2-15 is within the professional range of the Bosch brand, and is considered as a very reliable tool for leveling work at short distances (up to 15 m).

We must then look at its margin of error (+/- 3 mm) to realize that, indeed, this level will allow us to address with great precision complex jobs, such as tiling, furniture assembly to wall or plaster facilities, both partitions like roof panels.

The GCL 2-15 projects a vertical and horizontal green line, also in cross, and two plumb points on the ceiling and floor.

In addition, thanks to the rotating support you can orientate the laser around the plumb points without having to relocate it. The support is magnetic and can also be placed on the wall or ceiling, to mark profiles quickly from different heights.

The inner pendulum functions as self-leveling, corrects up to 4 ° (up / down) slopes and is responsible for providing exact lines. If the drop is too large, the light flashes to warn; although if what we are looking for is precisely a diagonal, it is enough to disconnect the automatic mode, blocking the pendulum, and the line will be projected fixed.

The lines and reference points are clearly seen indoors, but the low visibility as soon as we leave and can be problematic if the day is very bright. Even so, this tool has IP54 protection against dust and splashing water, so it is suitable for outdoor use provided the weather is not too bad.

Although its advanced functions may be a bit short, the Bosch GCL 2-15 is a good tool that provides very accurate measurements for high-quality work.

For professionals who want a tool for daily use, and for domestic hands that face challenges more complicated than normal.

4. Bosch GLL 55

Bosch has filled a significant gap with the level of GLL 55 cross-line laser, presenting a model that has the reliable and durable performance that has made them a leading brand, at a price that is well within reach of most customers. owners and small contractors. It has the range and power of more expensive products, with a set of functions that reduces all the critical functions that are expected in a high-end laser level.

This model incorporates Bosch’s VisiMax technology. This is a patented technology developed by Bosch to maximize the power of the laser. The temperature of the laser diodes is controlled in real time, and the power of the diodes is adjusted accordingly to keep the diodes at maximum power at all times without the possibility of overheating of the lasers.

Another remarkable feature included in Bosch’s affordable GLL 55 cross-line laser level is the IP-rated enclosure. The design uses an overmolded composite housing with a minimal interface and has obtained an IP54 rating, which means that the unit is protected against the ingress of dust and can withstand several minutes of splashing water without adverse effects on the functionality of the laser.

The comments we have heard from the field about durability and longevity are overwhelmingly positive, with very few problems reported.

3. Makita SK104Z

Makita is a multinational of Japanese origin, specialized in the manufacture of electric tools. Although it has several laser levels in its catalog, the Makita SK 104Z is the best valued by users for the quality of its projections (with a margin of error of 0.12in) and ease of use.

It has a simple control panel that allows to manage all the available functions with two buttons: horizontal, vertical and cross line. The self-leveling is done by pendulum, which can be left fixed to transport safely or for sloping or diagonal work.

Like other similar levels, it includes a magnetic support with the possibility of screwing to non-magnetic surfaces. Unfortunately, the support is not adjustable in height, but the tool can be attached to a standard tripod.

In addition, the package contains a magnetic card to help us aim the laser more accurately. It is a small detail that in practice is very useful.

The lines are red, with two intensity positions to adjust according to the level of brightness of the room: normal and echo, with a slightly dimmer light, very useful for reserving batteries if used for a long time.

The visibility is good in indoor work, up to 50ft, although the manufacturer says that you can reach up to 200ft using a detector. This is interesting in large interiors (for example industrial buildings) or abroad, where visibility will be compromised if we do not use any extra reinforcement. For that, it is protected against dust and water with IP54.

2. DeWalt DW088K

The laser level DeWalt DW088K is backed by one of the most recognized brands in the construction sector, so this is a tool with a great value for money, which provides high precision when working.

The light beams can be placed horizontally, vertically and crossed. Includes two use buttons and a low battery indicator. It provides an interior visibility of up to 50ft, which can reach 165ft with a detector, since it has the pulse mode to make it compatible.

The projected lines are a little thinner than usual in other brands in the same range, allowing you to work more comfortably, with a margin of error that falls within the usual: 1/4 inch accuracy at 100 feet.

Thanks to the magnetic support incorporated in the laser itself, it can be placed easily and quickly on the metal grid of a structure. It also includes support for sills and a hook to work on surfaces of partition or plasterboard.

The housing is made of rubber and the protective glass of the laser is very thick; our tool will be well protected against possible blows or falls. It also includes a rigid case for transport, which must be done with special care, since the self-leveling pendulum can not be blocked and therefore is less protected than is desirable.

The quality of the guide lines, in addition to perfectly marking levels and leads, makes the DeWalt DW088K a tool especially suitable for mounting plasterboard panels, in ceilings or partitions, and for masonry work in general.

1. Leica Lino L2

The Leica brand will sound you by the cameras and, in general, precision optical instruments. That is why the quality of the optical system has made the Leica Lino L2 one of the best rated laser levels by users.

The margin of error is +/- 2 mm at 10 m horizontally, when most levels of this price calculate 3 mm. The degree of precision is, therefore, higher than the average, something very interesting when particularly detailed works are proposed. The range of action reaches up to 30 m, which can be up to 60 m with the help of a receiver.

The self-leveling pendulum automatically stabilizes the line, which flashes when it is out of level. As usual, the pendant is blocked for angled lines or to protect the mechanism when it is not in use.

The quality of the laser is excellent, with great visibility and a pulse function with energy-saving mode, essential for working outdoors with a detector, or for projecting lines over long distances. If we work outdoors, it is interesting to have the peace of mind of an IP54 protection against dust and small wet spots.

The basic package includes a mini tripod that also serves as a support for walls, a circular adapter to project lines at any angle and an aiming board that offers a reflection surface to better position the lines and work more comfortably outdoors; In addition, it comes with a transport bag.

With a very characteristic aesthetic, this tool stands out especially for being very manageable, with measures similar to those of a tape measure and a weight of less than 400 g.

Our recommendations

Mejor nivel láser: Leica Lino L2

Number one on our list is in that position on its own merits. The Leica Lino L2 is exceptionally accurate (± 2 mm / 10 m, when most levels calculate with a margin of 3 mm), and that alone makes it one of our favorites.

But it also has a wide range of action (30 m) and is compatible with a receiver, which doubles the length of the lines drawn.

The quality of the laser does not disappoint, as it corresponds to a product of the Leica brand, and can be used in normal mode or in energy saving mode, which is very useful to work for extended periods of time, or to avoid that we run out fast the batteries if we work with a receiver.

The self-leveling is balanced in a few seconds and locked to draw lines diagonally. In that case, the line flashes every few seconds, warning of the unevenness. It is a characteristic that must be accustomed to work at ease, but does not prevent carrying out the task efficiently.

The exterior appearance is curved and pleasant to the touch, occupies and weighs little, and has IP54 protection so that outdoor work is safer.

Finally, we also like the extras that it includes: a magnetic pointing stick to trace the lines more easily, a circular adapter to project lines at any angle and a mini tripod. If you find it more comfortable, the Leica Lino L2 can also be attached to a standard tripod.

Best cheap laser level: Stanley Cubix

Let’s set aside the word games about the film director and let’s cut to the chase: the Stanley Cubix (if you prefer, the Stanley STHT1-77340) we love it because : this is a good level, cheap and even beautiful , with that characteristic cube shape that makes it very comfortable to manipulate.
It costs less than $ 100, has self-leveling and is easy to use: frankly, we do not believe that you can ask for more at a laser level of this range.

Project the lines in three modes: horizontal, vertical and cross, something that, surprisingly, other more expensive levels do not. It also allows to block the pendulum to project diagonal lines or to the roof, or simply to transport it with the mechanism protected from blows (another basic characteristic that not all include).

In addition, the laser used is class 1, which does not need any extra precaution to protect the eyes. This is very interesting if you use it often or if you have children at home who may have access to the tools.

Clearly, the Cubix is ​​intended for home use; the most professional profiles should perhaps go at slightly higher prices. If what you are looking for is a precise and robust level, without the family economy suffering, the Stanley Cubix should have a hole in your toolbox.

More Value for your Money: TackLife SC L03

There are three options to project the lines: horizontal to 360 °, vertical 130 ° and both combined in cross, which gives more possibilities when facing projects of some complexity, such as tiling or plasterboard works.

We also value the ability to block the self-leveling mode to project fixed lines at an angle. These are fixed on the chosen surface, while other tools flash warning of the unevenness, even if voluntary, a discomfort that is not insurmountable but latosa. With the Tacklife we ​​save this hassle to work on inclined surfaces.

In addition, the range of action is surprisingly high: 100ft, which can be even more, because this tool is compatible with a receiver.

But we can choose between two laser colors: red, as usual, and a blue color that increases visibility outdoors. It is a very interesting feature to propose reforms in the garden or the patio of house, for example. To withstand outdoor work has IP54, which protects against dust (fundamental if we get into work) and splashing water.

User ratings tell us that we are looking at a great product. In addition, within the same brand we can find levels with more or less benefits, always with an adjusted price.

Line Laser Level, Buyer’s Guide

What is a laser level for?

If you dedicate yourself to the reforms or to the construction professionally, maybe you can skip this section, because you are very aware that working with the wrong level can be disastrous in certain jobs.

Now, if that lasers sounds great to you, but just because you’re a Star Wars fan, keep reading. If in practice you are one of those who watch DIY programs like those who watch the documentaries of National Geographic, full of distant and exotic topics, you will be surprised, because a laser level facilitates jobs that were previously more complicated, how to place a bookcase or small decorative objects: pictures, photos, vinyl …

In summary: a laser level allows you to draw straight lines on a surface, which serve as a guide to place certain elements without deviating. The same goes for hanging a picture to do more complicated things like tiling tiles, changing the frame of a door, or placing a false plaster ceiling.

The traditional levels worked with a bubble, which you had to manually balance to get a more or less straight line.

A laser level does the same but in a simpler and more precise way. Most are self-leveling, which saves you from having to calculate the tilt to the eye.

The laser, in addition, draws straight lines on the wall or surface you choose, while if you want a similar effect with the technique of a lifetime you will have to use a line, mark with bodybuilder tape or a small string that you will have to fix with nails so that it does not move. With a laser level you get it by simply pressing a button.

The same goes for horizontal lines that vertical. The plumb line was used to trace the latter, which is exactly what it looks like: a small lead fixed with a rope at a high point, so that when it falls it marks a straight line, simply by the force of gravity.

In addition, most laser levels allow drawing cross lines, marking an angle of 90 °, and with that you can do, for example, watermarks like this. Can you imagine hanging this by eye?

And so far the basic functions of a laser level. Now we go with other features that you must take into account before deciding to buy

What will be the use of the laser level?

If your use is domestic, it is normal to arrive at a basic level; unless you are a real handyman and you take care of the major repairs and home renovations.

The cross laser level is the most common, and will perfectly serve to install furniture on the wall or tiling. However, if you want to align different objects of a room, you want the level to project the beam to 360 ° to quickly cover the entire contour of the room and not have to stop moving the level every time, losing precision by the way.

If you are a professional, in addition to the features that interest you, make sure that the structure or housing is resistant, that it has protection against dust and water, that the base is stable and that it has hooks to the wall, support in the form of a clamp or be compatible with a tripod. The magnetic base also interests you if you work in environments where there are metal bases, such as beams or profiles.

Look also at the estimated margin of error – logically, the less the better – and the range of scope. And finally, note that the pendulum can be locked (auto-off mode) in order to transport the tool more safely.

Am I interested in a laser level with self-leveling?

Our recommendation is that you look for a level that includes this option. It does not influence the price too much -not in a prohibitive way, at least- and it will save you a lot of time, in addition to ensuring you greater precision.

To level itself automatically, the tool has an internal device that oscillates like a pendulum. In this way, when we place the base fixed and more or less straight (no more than 4 ° inclination) the laser is regulated to provide a straight and balanced line.

It is also interesting that the self-level is blocked to provide a diagonal line. If you do not, the machine will identify that angle as an error, and will blink continuously to warn you that something is wrong. In addition, the lock protects the tool when you transport it from one place to another. If not, having a loose piece is easier to take a blow that can permanently damage the mechanism.

What scope do I need at a laser level?

Look at the technical specifications, but keep in mind that, more than the line length you can get, it is important to see the margin of error with which you work. The longer the beam, the less accurate it will be.

Scope is one of the characteristics that most influence the price, so be realistic. If you are not going to take it out of the house, it arrives with a laser level of 8/10 m, and the usual is a margin of error of 0.3 mm / m. If you have more ambitious goals, in the market you can find levels that reach beyond 30 m with a margin of error of 0.1 mm / m. Yes, prepare to take out the wallet.

Do I need to protect my eyes to use a laser level?

Not especially … but it’s not a silly question. Realize that a laser can be used as a simple pointer to point at a wall or as a tool for precision cuts in surgery. A laser of inadequate power applied to unprotected eyes can cause permanent damage.

In the case of the levels you should look at the kind of laser that you use.

Class 1 does not require any special security measures, but in class 2 it is recommended not to stare at the beam or its reflection more than 0.25 seconds. That is, avoid exposing yourself directly to radiation, with a minimum of care will be enough.

In higher classes precautions increase, but it is not something that should worry you, you will not find more intense lasers than a class 2 at a level of this type.

Other important features at a laser level: ergonomics and accessories.

It is interesting that the tool is comfortable to use, to be able to be with rubber base and a light weight or, at least manageable (it is rare that a level weighs more than a kilo).

Some levels have a non-slip base to facilitate placement, and even a magnet to place it on a metal base, such as beams, pipes or profiles. Others include supports to be installed vertically, for example in the frame of a door or on the rung of a ladder, and most are compatible with standard photography tripods, which allows height adjustment. They also usually have hooks to fix to the wall or ceiling.

It is also possible to use a reflecting plate or aiming card. They are small plates -some magnetized- covered with reflective material, which make the laser light more visible with intense luminosity or over large distances.

Another element that may interest you is a pair of laser glasses. Keep in mind that they are not designed to protect the eyes (it is not necessary in class 1 or 2 lasers, which are the ones used in these levels) but to increase the visibility of the beam if it has low power or the conditions are adverse.

Finally, you can buy a laser level compatible with a receiver, a small device that is placed at the other end of the line, usually outdoors or in large spaces such as industrial buildings, and can increase the power of the beam up to 50%.

How much does a laser level cost?

In the market you have basic models for less than $ 20, but for that price probably will not be self-leveling, that is, you have to balance the lines manually, with the bubble of a lifetime. And it is even possible that they only offer the possibility of projecting a single horizontal line. It’s worth it if you’re just going to hang a painting, but little game more you’re going to take out.

Starting at about $ 40, they already include a pendulum that self-regulates the inclination, always within margins that are usually in the 4 ° up or down. Here you can find horizontal and vertical cross lines, which gives much more game when working.

If your budget increases, the benefits also increase: magnet to be able to fix to magnetic surfaces, more reach of the light to work on large surfaces, greater power of the laser so that the lines are more visible, supports or tripods for fixing, etc. Here you can spend whatever you want, but a good laser level is within your reach for about $ 150. If it is more expensive, it probably includes other functions such as distance measurement, connectivity, etc., whose interest you should assess in your specific case.

Most brands (Bosch, Stanley, DeWalt, Leica, Tacklife …) offer different types of laser levels, adapted to all types of pockets. If you pay attention to this purchase guide and you focus on the functions you are going to use, finding the laser level you need will be an easy task.