The best self-leveling laser levels can make all the difference and be easy to use when trying to things nice and level. Laser levels can do everything a spirit or bubble level can do and much more by projecting a laser beam of light across an entire room or job site to provide a point of reference for projects. They can even handle larger jobs like hanging ledger boards for deck projects. Show
We’ve gotten our hands on several different laser levels so we can tell you which ones to consider or avoid. Check out our following picks that’ll provide tried-and-true results to help you while shopping for a tool.
 Photo: Tom Scalisi What to Consider When Choosing the Best Laser LevelOptions for the best laser level will vary greatly in each product’s accuracy, features, and ease of use. Before selecting a laser level for your needs, consider the intended use for your level and the type of beams required. Red vs. Green LaserIt might not be obvious, but the colors on laser levels make a big difference. There are two options—red and green—and they each have their pros and cons.
For these reasons, many pros own both red and green lasers and use them for projects that play to their strengths. AccuracyA hallmark of any good level is accuracy, whether it’s a spirit level or a high-tech laser model. The best laser levels will list a degree of accuracy on the packaging or in the manual. For a rule of thumb, however, look for a model with less than ⅛-inch deviation at 30 feet for truly dialed-in results. However, keep in mind that the best self-leveling laser will give the most accurate laser level line than DIYers can achieve with a spirit option. The act of holding a spirit level perfectly and completely level is very difficult, though the end results tend to be sufficient. Laser levels operate on a similar principle while increasing accuracy. Beam OrientationOne of the most important features of any high-quality laser level is the beam orientation option. Depending on the budget, there are models with up to three orientation planes: two vertical dual-beam lasers and one horizontal, and one or more of those planes might be 360 degrees. While the usefulness of the horizontal and vertical beams is obvious, the best 360-degree laser level’s practicality cannot be overstated. A 360-degree beam can help hang an entire room’s worth of pictures quickly and accurately, or it can help the user dig perfectly level sections of the yard. Also, for projects like drop ceilings, having the most accurate laser level on hand is critical to the strength of the finished product. Self-LevelingThe best laser levels on the market make leveling a push-and-play procedure. Most models with self-leveling technology use a laser on a pendulum in conjunction with magnets to provide stability. Once placed on a relatively flat surface, the pendulum takes over and achieves the final degree of level. This makes setting up fast and easy, especially if there is an existing reference point to register against. Many laser levels with a self-leveling feature also lock the pendulum in place when not in use. This helps reduce the risk of calibration issues while transporting the laser level, and it can be a big help in getting the most out of a level. MountingOne of the most useful aspects of laser levels is that they allow the user to work essentially hands-free. Once set up, they’re designed to be left alone while the project continues on, using the laser line as a point of reference. The best laser levels use different mounts and features to achieve this set-and-forget function. Some of the less expensive models might simply poke small pins into drywall for support. Other models will come with tripods or mounts that attach to metal studs or drop ceiling tracks. When purchasing a laser level, consider its intended use and which mounting accessories might be necessary to ensure compatibility. Our Top PicksThat might be a lot of information on the best laser levels, but don’t let it throw you off-kilter. I performed hands-on testing with all of the following models to make the shopping experience that much easier. All of the listed laser levels passed my tests, even when the road got particularly bumpy. Note: All of the following laser levels proved to be very accurate, far beyond what I could test with a standard bubble level (though I did check each several times during the test). Also, each model except the Black & Decker model features tripod compatibility, and all of the pendulums locked in place except for the DeWalt model. Best Overall1 DEWALT Line Laser Self-Leveling, Red, 3-Beam (DW089K)Photo: amazon.com SEE IT Whether it’s for DIY use or a professional job site, DeWalt’s Line Laser level has what it takes to get the job done. This laser features three self-leveling red beams (one horizontal line and two vertical dual-beam lasers) for leveling and lining up almost any project. It features accuracy to within ⅛-inch at 30 feet as well as having a micro-adjust knob on the top that allows the user to dial in the beam’s perfect alignment. During testing, the DeWalt proved to be one of the easiest to set up and use. It features a magnetic back as well as a beam clamp for attaching to angle iron, though most of my test involved setting it on a flat surface. The red laser was very bright and easy to see. The factor that pushed the DeWalt to the top of the heap was its robust design. It’s not the largest laser level, but it is one of the heaviest and sturdiest, and the drop test left it largely unscathed. The only thing it really can’t do is project a 360-degree beam. Product Specs
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Get the DEWALT Self-leveling level on Amazon or at Acme Tools. Best Budget2 BLACK+DECKER Line Laser with Stud Finder (BDL190S)Photo: amazon.com SEE IT For those who don’t need all the features available on top-of-the-line models, the Black & Decker BDL190S is a nice option at an affordable price. This isn’t the type of laser level that’s capable of a major project or renovation, but for striking level lines when hanging pictures or shelves, it will get the job done. This best budget laser level has some nice features, including a stud finder and electrical wire detection. The BDL190S comes with a hanger that attaches to the wall with a tack-like pin, and once hung, the laser will self-level. The downside of the Black & Decker is it requires the user to poke a small hole in the wall to mount it, which could be a deal-breaker for concrete or brick surfaces. Also, it only projects a horizontal line. While testing, the Black & Decker served its purpose. It projected a perfectly self-leveled line to the left and right and steadied quickly. There was a section of the wall where the beam appeared to lighten and become a bit more challenging to see, but this is because there was a bow in the wall, and that’s typical of wall-mounted laser levels. Also, the beam finder was a nice touch and appeared to work well. Product Specs
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Get the BLACK+DECKER laser with stud finder on Amazon. Upgrade Pick3 Bosch GLL3-330CG 360-Degree Green Beam LaserPhoto: amazon.com SEE IT Shoppers who are looking for a level that can do it all and don’t mind spending quite a bit more on one of the best brands may want to consider the Bosch GLL3-330CG. This self-leveling model has a 360-degree horizontal plane laser and two 360-degree vertical plane lasers, providing a level line of reference for any job. The green laser is visible at ranges of up to a 330-foot diameter. The GLL3-330CG’s premium features can actually go unnoticed. The level monitors its battery life and adjusts the beam for both optimal visibility and length of use. It also has internal sensors that detect bumps and drops and alerts to calibration issues. The Bosch GLL3-330CG proved to be a serious piece of machinery during testing. I don’t have a way to measure its accuracy over other laser levels, but I had no reason to doubt that it’s more accurate than the rest (3/32 of an inch at 30 feet as opposed to ⅛-inch). The three 360-degree planes were easy to see and use. After dropping the GLL3-330CG three times, it registered a calibration fault that required logging into the app to clear. This was more of a benefit than an issue as it was easy to clear and did warn of the shocks. Also, I like that this level offers flexible battery sources (rechargeable or replaceable). The only problem? While it’s the best 360-degree laser level on this list, the device is a bit expensive. Product Specs
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Get the Bosch beam laser on Amazon, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, Northern Tool, and Acme Tools. Best for Light-Duty4 SKIL 360° Red Cross Line Laser Level - LL932201Photo: amazon.com SEE IT Every DIYer has different needs, and a high-end, expensive, heavy-duty laser level isn’t always a priority. For those who’d prefer something a bit more light-duty and affordable, the SKIL Self-Leveling 360-degree cross line laser level is worth a look. The SKIL has all the features necessary, including horizontal and vertical lasers as well as 360-degree coverage, but with a little less fit-and-finish look. The result is a capable yet minimalist laser level at a lower price, and it even comes with a tripod for setting it at any height. The SKIL was the surprise of the hands-on testing. It truly is a capable light-duty model. For its price and intended use, it’s well built and durable while being very simple to set up and use. It also steadied very quickly. While the tripod wasn’t of the highest quality, it was one of the only setups in the test that allowed for positioning the laser at an angle. Product Specs
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Get the SKIL laser level on Amazon or at Acme Tools (tool only). Best for Heavy-Duty5 Klein Tools 93LCLS Laser LevelPhoto: amazon.com SEE IT For a professional-grade laser, the Klein Tools 93LCLS Laser Level ticks most of the boxes, but has some features that the other models don’t. The Klein Tools 93LCLS has both vertical and horizontal beams, but it also features a plumb-spot finder that projects above and below the level, which can be a real asset when installing conduit, piping, or drop ceilings. This device features several mounting options, including a magnetic mount with a 360-degree swivel and a specialized mount for drop ceiling tracks. The 93LCLS falls short when it comes to a constant 360-degree laser, but the ability to swivel it on the mount while maintaining level helps to offset that shortcoming. The variety of mounting options makes it incredibly versatile. Testing the 93LCLS Laser Level revealed the Klein to be an over-built, sturdy, reliable laser level. The laser is very easy to see, and the plumb spot is a feature I wish I’d had on several recent projects since it’s far faster to use than an actual plumb bob or level. The setup was also very simple. The one con with this particular level is, for the price, it should probably offer a 360-degree beam. Product Specs
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Get the Klein Tools laser level on Amazon, The Home Depot, and Acme Tools. Best for Outdoor Use6 Huepar Self-Leveling Green Laser Level 621CGPhoto: amazon.com SEE IT The Huepar Self-Leveling Green Laser Level is an interesting choice for outdoor use. This is a highly visible model with a 360-degree laser, but it’s inexpensive enough that users don’t have to worry about it the way they might a far more expensive model. The Huepar has two laser planes: a vertical and a 360-degree horizontal. The green 360-degree laser is easy to see, especially outdoors. It also has a 180-foot range, although users can only utilize it in the battery-saving pulse mode. It has an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, making it ideal for building decks, grading small sections of land, and installing siding. The Huepar proved to be a high-quality laser level, with a bright green beam and an easily utilized pulse mode. The 360-degree horizontal plane was also nice, particularly when leveling a large outdoor area. The area where it fared the worst, however, was in steadiness. During testing, the laser shook far more than the other models, which does make the line potentially less accurate, though it steadied when all movement ceased. Also, it features plumb-spot indicators above and below, which is a nice and rare feature. Product Specs
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Get the Huepar laser level on Amazon. Best Compact7 Bosch GLL30 30ft Cross-Line Laser LevelPhoto: amazon.com SEE IT Having a cross-line laser level available within arm’s length at any time might seem like a luxury, but with the compact and affordable GLL30 from Bosch, it can become a reality. This small laser level features vertical and horizontal red laser beams and offers 5/16-inch accuracy at 30 feet. With its tiny footprint, it’ll fit in a tool bag or a tool box with ease, ensuring it’s always available. Realistically, the Bosch cross-line laser level doesn’t have the size to hold a lot of high-end hardware, so it trades a bit of accuracy for its compact profile. However, I found no issues with its accuracy during testing, and it was very easy to set up. Also, it came with a multipositional mount with a clamp for attaching to a variety of objects, plus the ability to position the laser at any angle or a flat surface (something almost none of the other levels could do). Product Specs
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Get the Bosch cross-line laser level on Amazon, Lowe’s, and Acme Tools. Our VerdictAnyone looking for an all-around top-notch laser level should consider the DEWALT Line Laser for its multiple planes and robust design. However, folks shopping for a laser level with all the bells and whistles won’t experience disappointment (though maybe a little sticker shock) with the Bosch Line Laser. How We Tested the Best Laser LevelsAt its basic purpose, a laser level projects a line onto a surface that the user can reference, and it would make sense that accuracy would be the baseline of this test. But it wasn’t. Testing modern laser levels for accuracy is almost laughable, as even the most affordable model is more accurate than the human eye can tell (particularly with a bubble level). Instead, the more critical factors, such as how well the laser line showed, how easy the levels were to set up, using the different features, and, ultimately, a durability test were the main focuses of this review. I set up each level to compare their accuracy (quickly), their beams, and their features. Then, the shocking part: I purposely dropped them on the ground. Laser levels are somewhat precision instruments, but drops are entirely possible during a project. I dropped all the levels from the height of a sawhorse, all at once, three times. It broke my heart a bit to purposely abuse these tools, but I did it in the name of science. FAQsIf making an informed decision on this handy tool feels like information overload, you’re not alone. Let’s bring things back to level by answering some of the most frequently asked questions about the best laser levels. Be sure to check for an answer to your question listed below. Q: How do laser levels work?Laser levels produce one or more focussed, sharp, and straight beams of light from a diode to provide a level line for measuring. Q: Is it worth getting a laser level?Whether it’s for DIY jobs or for professional use, laser levels are worth getting. For most purposes, they’re more than accurate enough, and the setup time and consistency can make short work of a long project. Q: What are laser levels good for?When doing construction or measuring in a large space, a laser level can help provide accurate lines to ensure even, level measurements. Some of the most ideal situations for a laser level are aligning cabinets and plumbing, leveling floors, installing doors and windows, and measuring drop ceilings. Q: Which is better: a red or a green laser level?Neither color is better overall, but each one is better in certain circumstances. Red lasers are harder to see in sunlight, but they offer better battery life and are less likely to damage the user’s eyes. Green lights are more expensive and can damage eyesight faster than red, but they’re easier to see in daylight. Q: Are Bosch laser levels good?Bosch makes some of the best laser levels on the market, and the brand’s higher-end models are more accurate than most models. Q: Do laser levels measure distance?A laser level does not measure distance, only if a surface is even. Q: How do you check the accuracy of a laser level?If you have doubts about your laser level’s readings, you can double-check it by opening the level and re-calibrating the pendulum (where the laser comes from). Many models will have internal buttons or controls for easy recalibration. For a quick-fix, you can also place the laser at an evenly-placed tiled surface to check the X and Y axes. Q: How often should you calibrate a laser level?If you use your laser level regularly, recalibration should be done every 6 months. Q: Do laser levels work outside?Laser levels can always be used outdoors. Q: Can I see a laser level in daylight?Be advised that daylight may limit the visibility of the beams so green beams may be best for outdoor use. Q: How do you use a laser level without a tripod?If you do not have a tripod for measuring, an available level surface is also acceptable for measuring. Some units also come with a stand or base, so a tripod is not necessary. Can you use laser levels outside?Seeing a laser outside can be difficult, if not outright impossible, only using the naked eye. Thankfully, most modern laser levels from Johnson Level come with red or green tinted glasses or goggles that make seeing a laser beam outside simple. Rotary laser levels are the best choice for an outdoor laser level.
Can an indoor laser level be used outside?Another advantage of having a laser level is you can use it indoors and outdoors. What's great about using a laser level indoors is that you won't have a problem finding the beam.
What is the difference between indoor and outdoor laser levels?Related to the range is indoor versus outdoor use. Normally, indoor use is a shorter range. You can probably work with a red laser level if most of your work will be indoors. In contrast, you will probably need a green laser level if you're working outside.
Can you use a red laser level outside?The bright light of the sun can wash out red laser light, so if you plan to work outdoors with a laser level, keep that in mind. Another point to consider, as distance increases, accuracy decreases. For long distance use, Stabila suggests using a laser receiver.
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Can you use a Bosch laser level outside?
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