Laser level - a device for building perfectly straight lines in several planes. The equipment is widely used in industry, construction and architecture. The device can also be used in domestic conditions.
Working principle
Levels form a projection of the laser beam on the surface. The points and lines obtained are reference points for various works.
Marking with laser levels is used for:
- Laying tiles.
- Installation of drywall.
- Pasting wallpaper.
- Plaster beacons.
- Electrification works.
- Furniture production.
Laser-type devices are divided into five categories. When choosing levels, 8-10 factors are guided.
How and which laser level to choose?
When choosing a laser level based on several parameters:
- Cost. For domestic use, an inexpensive device without additionalfunctions. Models with wide functionality are selected for permanent work and are more expensive.
- Duration of work. Only electronic devices are capable of many hours of uninterrupted operation. Pendulum analogs function for 20 minutes and require recharging.
- Type of level. The most accurate measurements are guaranteed by point equipment. Linear devices are used to create a perfectly flat surface. Rotary levels project vertical, horizontal and inclined planes.
- Projection distance. It is impossible to work on large construction sites with a minimum range level.
- Number of projections. For domestic use, a level that forms two intersecting projections is sufficient. Large job sites and workshops require a model with many views.
- Measurement error. Powerful and functional models have an error rate of 0.3-0.4 mm / m. The error of household appliances is greater.
- Operating temperature range. A significant advantage is the ability to use the level at negative temperatures in open areas.
- Self-alignment. The best option is the value of the limiting angle of 5 degrees, the ability to adjust the compensator in a short period of time. High-quality models of laser levels are equipped with a function to turn off the compensator.
- Mount type. Steady level support is required when operating it in open areas. An important parameter when choosing a level is a wall element for installation and a tripod mount.
- Case protection. Indicated on the label. Standard IP54 protection allows you to work with the device in a dusty area and in the rain.
- Complete set. The standard set includes a bag, flat targets, special goggles, battery and charger.
- Design. Does not affect the quality of work, but the usability of the device depends on it.
Which brand do you prefer?
Laser levels from any manufacturer are promoted on the market as one of the best, which greatly complicates the choice of a particular brand of equipment. There are a wide range of levels on the market, but a few brands are preferred:
- ADA. A well-known company specializing in the production of laser equipment: rangefinders, levels, pyrometers and other devices. The products are of excellent quality.
- DeW alt. Delivers equipment and tools of the highest class. The brand's laser levels are distinguished by quality and reliability controlled by engineers.
- Bosch. A German company that does not need advertising and is famous for its perfect product quality. Laser levels manufactured under the Bosch brand are of high quality, reliability and accuracy of measurements. Devices are checked by engineers at every stage of production.
Perfect level
The best laser level, according to reviews, is a multifunctional model with a tripod mount, durable housing and the ability to mount on the wall. Defining a search point ona considerable distance is possible with five outgoing beams.
It is desirable to have a function to automatically turn off the device when in standby mode for more than 20 minutes. 360-degree rotation allows you to project your markings onto other walls.
Optimum performance:
- Projection range - 25 meters.
- Measurement accuracy - ± 0.4 mm/m.
- Working time - 15 hours.
- The horizontal plane is 360 degrees.
- The level of protection against moisture and dust - IP54.
- Tripod socket - ¼.
Advantages of laser levels:
- Wide functionality and the possibility of application in various fields of activity. High leveling accuracy and 360-degree rotation of the device allow it to be used in geodetic and topographic works.
- Easy operation. Management of modern models does not require special skills.
The main disadvantage of laser levels is their cost: the more functions the device has, the higher its price.
Below is an overview of the different categories of laser levels. The listed models have their pros and cons, allowing them to be used in various fields of human activity.
Best Spot Laser Levels
The rating of the best laser levels is opened by the professional Bosch GPL 5. Projection range - 30 meters. The functionality of the device allows you to build lines in horizontal and vertical planes, plumb lines and angles. The search point is determined by five outgoing beams with highaccuracy. On the body there are rubber pads that make it easier to work with the level. Automatic shutdown is provided if the device is not used for 20 minutes.
Benefits:
- Compact size and light weight.
- Cross-shaped sight.
- High measurement accuracy.
- Thread for two types of tripods - 1/4 and 5/8.
- Energy independence.
- High level of protection against moisture and dust.
Flaws:
- Cost - 18 thousand rubles.
- Fragility. People who dropped pallets of bricks on the level complain about its lack of strength, but this argument can hardly be called serious.
DeW alt DW 083 K
The second place in the ranking of the best laser levels is occupied by the mobile DeW alt DW 083, the functionality of which allows you to turn the device 180 degrees around its axis and mark opposite walls without rearranging. The pendulum plumb line is locked in the off state, which protects it from damage during transportation. The wide base makes the level stable.
Benefits:
- Wide scope.
- Measuring range - 30 meters.
- Easy and easy to manage.
- Compact size and light weight.
Flaws:
A small number of rays
Geo-Fennel Duo-Pointer
Point laser level, featuring high functionality and ease of operation. High simulation accuracymounting lines is provided by the projection of three points. It can be used in the design of vertical communications and partitions. Magnets are built into the rubberized body, which allows you to attach the level to metal surfaces. Although the Geo-Fennel Duo-Pointer does not have the same high level of accuracy as the previous two models, it is an excellent laser level according to professionals.
Benefits:
- Wide functionality.
- Compact and lightweight.
- In case of deviation from the compensation limits - light and sound signals.
- 1/4 tripod connector.
Flaws:
Short range
The best prism laser levels
The rating of prism-type laser levels opens the CONDTROL XLiner Combo Set - an expensive (17 thousand rubles) professional level. It projects five intermediate rays, not counting the two main ones - horizontal and vertical. The rays are projected individually, in a complex and in the form of a cross. The level is used in the field of construction, unpretentious to temperature extremes, has a rich set and is highly durable.
Benefits:
- Five orthogonal rays.
- High level of protection against dust and moisture.
- Light weight.
- Rotation angle 160 degrees.
- Rich equipment.
Flaws:
High cost - 17 thousand rubles
CONDTROL XLiner Duo
Multi-prism level, unlike the previous model of the same manufacturer,has a lower cost and does not project intermediate beams. The level forms two lines - horizontal and vertical. With the use of a detector, the operating range of the device is increased from 50 meters to 100 meters. The body is shockproof, equipped with rubber pads that protect the level from external influences.
The CONDTROL XLiner Duo got into the rating of laser levels for the following advantages:
- The brightness and clarity of the projected beams.
- Long range.
- Light weight and size.
- High protection against moisture and dust.
- Rotation angle 160 degrees.
Flaws:
Limited scope of use
Laser LevelPro3
One of the most inexpensive laser levels in the ranking. Projects vertical and horizontal beams up to 5.5 meters. It is most convenient to work with the level in small rooms where it is impossible to use large models.
Benefits:
- Light weight and compact.
- Affordable price - 1000 rubles.
- High measurement accuracy.
- Built-in tape measure.
- Batteries - three AA batteries.
Flaws:
Limited feature set
Best rotary laser levels
In the industry, the best laser level, according to reviews, is the Bosch GRL 300 HV. Used to measure the angle of inclination of surfaces. One of the most functional rotary levels due to high measurement accuracy, simple remote control operation, robusthull. A 9-volt power supply or a NiMH battery is used as a power source.
Benefits:
- Able to measure horizontally and vertically.
- Tripod included.
- The "anti-shock" function informs the user about vibrations of the surface or device.
- Working range - 300 meters.
Flaw:
High cost - 54 thousand rubles, justified by quality and functionality
Ermak 659-023
Rotary level ranked seventh in home and construction site laser levels. The beam projection range is 25 meters. The device scans the area in a constant mode, notifying the user about changes in the angle of inclination of the studied plane. The horizon line is marked automatically. "Ermak" cannot boast of high measurement accuracy, but it is sufficient for most of the work. The device is used for mounting stretch ceilings and stairs.
Benefits:
- Compact size and light weight.
- Comes with tripod.
- Suitable for harsh environments.
- Affordable price - 2800 rubles.
- High strength body.
Flaws:
Battery life is short
Hilti PR 2-HS A12
Rotational laser level "Hilti" helps to build slopes during the construction of buildings, leveling the ground forfoundation works, installation of suspended ceilings and other works related to the construction of vertical and horizontal planes.
Benefits:
- Sturdy body.
- High level of IP6 protection protects the level from moisture and dust.
- Damping handles. Protect the body and absorb impact energy.
- Hanging system and internal damping protect the inside of the instrument.
- Turn your head 360 degrees.
- 12V Li-Ion batteries provide long-lasting performance.
Best floor laser levels
Next in the ranking of laser levels (360 revolutions) from builders and floor finishers, is the Bosch GSL 2 Professional. The functionality of the device allows you to check the evenness of the surface and the quality of the screed. The kit comes with a remote control that makes it easier to work with the level. The rubberized wide outsole gives stability to the level. Beam projection range - 20 meters.
Benefits:
- Compact dimensions.
- Foldable handle for easy transport.
- Remote control included.
- High level of protection against dust and moisture.
- Special glasses for a clearer display of rays.
Flaws:
High cost - 27400 rubles
ADA ProDigit 60
One of the most powerful models completes the top ten in the ranking of laser levels. The device has a modest design and the ability to attach to metal surfaces and a tripod. Equipped with a large number of electronic circuits. The measurement results are displayed on the built-in display. The control mechanism of the device is push-button. According to the information given in the instructions for the ADA laser level, the device can be used to work with vertical surfaces.
Benefits:
- Built-in display.
- Calibration function.
- Millimeter divisions of the measurement scale.
- High strength aluminum body.
- Nine memory cells.
- High measurement accuracy.
- Sound alert.
Flaws:
Not suitable for measuring floor evenness
Infiniter CL360-2
In the ranking of self-leveling laser levels Infiniter for all types of construction and design work is one of the first places. 360 degree line projection. The high quality of beam formation is achieved by additional lenses. The mechanism of the device and optical elements are protected by a durable case with shockproof rubber pads. The projection distance is 40 meters, the maximum measurement error is 0.02 mm / m, which is very unusual for a cheap level.
Benefits:
- Quick line transfer to any angle thanks to the swivel base.
- Compact size and light weight.
- High build quality.
- Supplied with a bag for transporting and storing the level.
- Low battery warning light.
Flaws:
- Alignment is not disabled.
- Laser power is unevenly distributed.
X-Line HELPER 2D
One of the self-leveling laser levels, in the rating of devices with similar functions, it ranks second. Projects perpendicular beams at a distance of up to 70 meters with a special receiver. The self-leveling function is disabled, which allows you to work in buildings that are on a slope. Management is intuitive - to select a mode, just press the key. In the ranking, the laser level received the second place due to the small sweep angle - only 120 degrees.
Benefits:
- Protection from moisture and dust.
- Auto-align beams within ± 3 degrees.
- Tripod included.
- Sound notification when the device deviates from the horizon line.
- Able to work over long distances with the receiver.
Flaws:
Small sweep angle forces the user to move the level from place to place
Best tile laser levels
The Bosch GTL 3Professional green laser level is designed for tiling work. Projects rays at a right angle and a bisector between them. The range of the device is 20 meters. The price of the level corresponds to its quality - 11200 rubles.
Benefits:
- Simple and convenient one-button operation.
- High strength body.
- Supplied with a metal plate for level wall mounting.
- Protection from moisture anddust.
- Auto power off function after 30 minutes of inactivity.
Flaws:
A narrowly functional device, but does an excellent job
ADA Phentom 2D Set
The ideal option for those who do not rely on electronics and want to check the straightness of the constructed lines with their own hands - the ADA Phentom 2D Set laser level with a switchable self-leveling function. Projects vertical and horizontal planes both together and separately. The choice of modes is carried out by means of a membrane keyboard. The kit comes with a wall mount, tripod and special glasses. The pendulum locks automatically when the level is turned off, which protects it from damage during transport.
Benefits:
- Suitable for laying tiles on the wall and other surfaces.
- High measurement accuracy thanks to the elevation stand.
- The maximum beam sweep angle is 180 degrees in the horizontal plane.
- Convenient case.
- Possibility of attaching the level to vertical surfaces.
Flaws:
It is impossible to work without glasses at a distance of more than 15 meters due to the low clarity and brightness of the beam
Best budget laser levels
Compact and mobile level Geo-Fennel-Ecoline EL 168 with decent functionality and affordable price - about 1490 rubles. It can be applied on building sites and in living conditions. Switching of the level-projected line is carried out in two directions,which allows you to work with different surfaces. Correct setting of bubble levels ensures high measurement accuracy. Ideal for those who want to save money and buy a good laser level.
Benefits:
- High Energy Efficiency - Runs 24 hours on two batteries.
- Projection distance is 20 meters.
- Affordable price.
- Manual tilt setting.
- Compact size and light weight.
Flaws:
Not suitable for applications that require high definition and measurement accuracy
FIT IT 18605
A simple functional level that allows you to get high accuracy measurements. The range of action is 30 meters, thanks to which the device can be used indoors and on construction sites. The power source is two little finger batteries. The kit comes with a tripod. Horizontal impact-resistant "peephole" increases the range of laser beams. The best level for home use.
Benefits:
- Light weight and compact dimensions.
- Possibility of installation on a tripod.
- Affordable price - 800 rubles.
- High measurement accuracy.
- Long range.
Flaws:
Narrow scope
Bosch PLL 1-5
Practical, compact and handy laser level. Projects beams in the vertical and horizontal plane. High accuracyadjustment is provided by a built-in magnet. The kit comes with a device for mounting the device on the wall. The weight of the level is tiny - only 120 grams. The device is intended for household use in small premises. The price is not to say that it is low (2300 rubles), but it fully justifies the good quality and measurement accuracy.
Benefits:
- Precise and fast leveling thanks to flat ground.
- Compact size and light weight.
- Supplied with wall mount.
- Affordable price.
- Bubble level.
Flaws:
