What to know before buying a Laser Level - Tool Guide

Laser levels save time and money and help you work faster, smarter, and more confidently. Take comfort in knowing that the job starts accurately from the get-go.

They are no longer bulky, expensive units that only large-scale companies can afford. Today they are exceptionally affordable. Small-scale businesses, contractors, and DIY enthusiasts can now benefit from these highly accurate tools, too.

Before you add one to your toolbox, here are some commonly asked questions about them.

What are Laser Levels used for?

Don't confuse them with a laser-measuring tool. A laser level casts a visible beam that accurately marks or calculates the following.

• Ceiling drops
• Paving lines
• Cabinetry levels
• Stairwell angles
• Decking lines
• Roof slopes
• Tiling lines
• Counter-top heights and levels
• Plumbing lines
• Window-frame heights
• Bricklaying edges
• Shelf heights and levels
• Lighting installations
• Uniform mounting heights for switches and plug points

Is a Laser Level worth it?

Measuring and marking are crucial aspects of any installation job. Inaccuracies compound over longer distances and it is vital to be precise from the start.

Conventional spirit levels will always have a purpose. They don't, however, feature the same amount of accuracy as a laser level. In addition, their limtited length often cause errors in the measuring process when working on wide-spanning jobs like paving, tiling, decking and bricklaying.

Fortunately, laser levels don't have this problem as they cast a perfectly staight line across a broad area – up to 120 meters depending on the model. 

Which Laser Level is best, Green or Red?

Red lasers are easier to manufacture and simpler in design and they're also typically more affordable and durable than green lasers.

However, generally speaking, green lasers are significantly brighter. They also travel further distances visible to the naked eye. Due to their light spectrum they're also easier to see in a wide range of lighting conditions – including broad daylight. 

On that note, if much of your work involves being outdoors and marking lines over wide-spanning areas, investing in a green laser would be preferential, despite the higher initial cost.

What Laser Level should you buy?

Of course, your choice of laser level will depend on what work you commonly do. If you exclusively work indoors and your job includes hanging picture frames, mirrors, shelves or cabinetry, it's unlikely that you’ll need a super-bright 3-axis laser that casts a beam on the floor, wall and ceiling.

However, a 3-axis laser level will prove indispensable if your work involves floor-to-wall tiling jobs. In contrast, if you frequently work outdoors and perform wide-spanning jobs at ground level, a 3-axis model may not be necessary. Having a brighter beam will be appreciated. 

Using a self-leveling laser will save significant time. With a self-leveling model, you don't have to manually adjust and readjust the level or tripod each time. Use them for time-sensitive jobs and work that requires completion within a day or two. 

Which Laser Level is best for DIY?

DIY enthusiasts often tackle a wide range of jobs not limited to a specific trade.  Using a 3-axis laser level with a bright beam will offer the broadest range of applications across many DIY tasks.

If your DIY exploits are limited to erecting shelves or mounting picture frames, an entry-level red laser with a single- or dual-axis beam will suffice

What do they cost?

Thankfully, laser levels now come in a wide range of models and, with that, a wide range of prices. You’ll find one of the widest selections on the market when visiting our Collection page here.