Best Laser Level For The Money

Last Update: May, 2023

Precise leveling can make a world of difference, no matter the project. Whether you building a house, laying tile, installing cabinets, or simply hanging some art having a reliable and accurate leveling tool is essential.

There are a few different options out there when it comes to buying a level ranging from best laser level for homeowners, best outdoor laser levels, and best laser level for builders.

The more traditional style of level consisted of an air bubble that’s inside of a tube of liquid, but thanks to modern advancements, the laser level has quickly become the best option when it comes to levels. They offer precise, easy-to-read leveling on almost any surface.

Adding a laser level to your tool kit really add accuracy to your work and make things much easier. Navigating your way through the many options and deciding which one will best fit your needs can be overwhelming. The levels listed here offer some really great benefits and features.

Here's our list of the best laser levels out there today:

More About The ​Heupar Self-Level Green Laser Level

This self-leveling laser features a 360° horizontal as well as a 140° green beam. Both are ultra bright for maximum visibility. You'll be able to complete a variety of tasks - including plumbing, leveling and squaring - with all-around laser coverage, no matter the size of the job site. 

One of the best and unique features of this laser is the up and down plumb spots which allow you to line things up horizontally. In addition, you can select from five different modes including:

• Vertical and Horizontal
• Horizontal
• Vertical
• Plumb Points
• All Beams On

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More About The ​Bosch Self-Level Cross-Line Laser

Bosch’s cross-line laser level allows you to complete projects with a professional level of accuracy. It features horizontal and vertical laser beams, as well as the cross-line mode where you can use them both at the same time.

Bosch’s exclusive VisiMax technology provides bright, vibrant lines that are easily visible in most standard working conditions. By monitoring the temperature of the laser at all times, VisiMax ensures that the laser’s diodes constantly stay at the maximum brightness, while still protecting and preventing the diodes from becoming overheated.

A smart pendulum system allows for self-leveling, meaning that it will indicate when it is out-of-level. It also includes a magnetic mount that easily attaches to steel studs. Additionally, it is able to stand freely thanks to built-in, retractable feet.

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More About The Huepar 3D Green Beam Laser Level

This 3D laser level was designed to assist you on just about any project that requires accuracy. It features three 360° planes, two of them going vertically and one going horizontally. These can be used together or individually by using the different line switching modes.

Once the laser has been set to the unlocked position, it will automatically enable the self-leveling mode. If the leveling pendulum is in lock mode, you'll be able to set the laser at a non-level angle if you wish. It will blink every 3-5 seconds to remind you that it is not in self-leveling mode.

You won’t have to worry very much about battery life with this one, thanks to its triple power supply capabilities. This laser level can use a high-capacity lithium battery, an adapter for using AA batteries, and an option for direct input charging.

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More About The DeWalt DW088K Self-Leveling Laser

This laser benefits you on every task, from tile installation to mapping out a layout. You can project bright horizontal and vertical beams, either together as a crosshair or individually. It’s fully compatible for use with a laser detector that will extend the visibility up to 165ft while still maintaining full brightness. All beam options can be easily controlled by the control panel that is found on the side of the unity.

The laser includes a hard-shell box for safe storage and transport. In addition, it has a durable, rugged design with over-mold housing for dirt and water resistance. This will give it a longer projected life than less protected competitors. Also, it comes with a pivoting, magnetic base that makes it easy to mount anywhere there's a metal surface.  

What makes this even better is that with this laser, Dewalt offers a three-year limited warranty, with free service for the first year.

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More About The ​DeWalt DW089K 3-Beam Line Laser

This laser level features the two standard vertical and horizontal beams, but also has an additional plumb line that adds 90° intersecting lines on the ceiling and floor. A magnetic, pivoting bracket allows it to stick conveniently to any metal surface.

With diodes that are 2X brighter than standard ones, you’ll have increased beam visibility, even in less-than-ideal working conditions. Alone, the visibility is up to 50ft, but it can be used with a separate line laser detector to increase the range to 165ft.

At 30ft, the laser will provide an accuracy of +/- ⅛’’ for leveling. Plus, it features a micro knob that allows you to adjust the layout lines in very small increments to ensure it’s in just the right spot.

How a Laser Level Works

Laser levels are quite interesting. They are often - and ideally - self-leveling. Once the unit is level, it will project a laser beam for a distance. This beam is produced using a piece called a diode inside of the unit. The laser is made when electrons are stimulated producing a beam that is then collected and pointed in a specific direction.

The laser level beams are often used as a type of visual aid for ensuring precision and level measurements. The thinner the beam is, the more accurate the line will be. The thickness of the line depends on the size of the diode. With advances in modern technology, lasers are becoming more powerful and some even include level detectors that will beep when they are level.

Types of Laser Levels

Depending on the type of work that you normally do and what job you will do the most with it, there are many different types available to choose from. While the laser-style levels were created and made popular in the mid-1990s, it's been enhanced over the years which has led to many different versions of it, made more affordable and efficient.

Let’s dive deep into the three most commonly used types:

Spot or Plumb Laser

These types of laser levels work by projecting a small spot of light onto whatever surface the laser is aimed at. There are great for installing plumbing, electrical work, framing, and HVAC applications. They are much more accurate than traditional water levels or plumb bobs.

The fixed circles that these lasers project are intended to assist in transferring points. This makes it useful for ensuring pipes that are meant to flow perfectly vertical are just that, or ensuring a wall is exactly plumb.

One of the downsides to this kind of laser is that the beam range tends to be a bit shorter than other kinds, making it great for creating reference points, but not ideal for much else.

Line Laser

Line lasers work by projecting a straight line and can reach distances of about 65 to 100 feet.

These are great for leveling things at long distances and can even be used for longer distances if paired with a laser detector, which is often sold separately.

Depending on the model you choose, you may be able to have a level that produces multiple lines, allowing you not only to ensure that everything is straight, but also to check that things are perfectly square. By using multiple lines at the same time you're able to create cross-line lasers that neatly intersect.

Typically, these are pretty lightweight, compact, easily transported, and can be easily mounted on tripods. Furthermore, many of these levels come with magnetic bases for metal surface mounting. With the advancements in hardware technology, the bulky laser levels of the 90’s have become even more versatile, seeing as earlier models were not ideal for use in bright environments or different angles. Now, you have all of this at your disposal.

Rotary Laser

Like the line lasers, rotary laser levels project a straight, level line. What makes it different is that this line rotates and covers 360° as well as including up and down plumb lines. Many of the newer models out there can be hi-tech, coming with extra items like remote controls. This is perfect for those who work large jobs and hate the constant back-and-forth.

The rotary laser works on a different wavelength than the regular line lasers, making them a lot more powerful and highly accurate. They are the ideal type of laser for doing outdoor projects such as laying pipes or foundation. Since these tend to be stronger and more durable, they also tend to be a bit bulkier, heavier, and more expensive. They also require a very sturdy base.

Factors to Consider When Buying a Laser Level

Shopping for a laser level can be tricky. There are so many types and options, so you'll need to consider factors before making a purchase to ensure that you’re going to get the one that will best fit your needs. Here are a few things to think about and look for:

Is it Self-Leveling?

This is one of the most valuable and useful features that a laser level can have. Most of the newer ones have this feature. These will level themselves so you don't have to mess with it unless you specifically want it off-level. They come with a built-in device that allows them to know when they're level or off.

Accuracy

You’ll want the most accurate level you can find, because accuracy is essential no matter how big the project is. Look for one with a thinner beam and an internal pendulum, these tend to be the most precise kind.

Beam Visibility

Look for a laser with a bright line. If you normally work in large places or outdoors, this should be one of your top concerns. You want something that will shine vividly in bright light and one that can travel the distance that you need it to. Remember that with a lot of the line lasers, you can also purchase a separate detector to help extend the reach or your beam.

This also brings into play the color of the beam. They either come in red or green. Which color you choose depends on the type of work that you do most. Choose the green laser if you work outdoors, because they’ll shine brighter when used in the sun. Red works fine if most of your projects are indoors.

Multi-Beam Functions

Do you want a level that can project multiple beams at once? If so, consider getting a cross-line laser. This will be helpful if you often find that you need to ensure perfect squares, such as when hanging pictures or tiling a floor.

Conclusion

Investing in a good laser level can help increase your productivity and the accuracy of your projects. With the ability to project bright beams for distances, self-level, and create perfect squares, they are light-years above the traditional bubble levels. No matter how big or small your project is, there’s no doubt that you could benefit from using a laser level.

When shopping for the perfect one to fit your needs, consider where you do the majority of your work, how long of a beam you'll need and which one will give you the most value for your money. Do your research and you're sure to make the right choice.

Adding one of these amazing tools for your arsenal will be worth the money and save you a lot of time and energy in the long run.