Overall, our choice for the top laser level is the DEWALT Line Laser, which delivered a clear line in all of our tests and can project up to 165 feet.
Laser levels can differ greatly in price depending on the make and mode. High-quality models can cost between $100 to $200, while more basic models can be found for $25 to 40.
To help you decide which laser level will work best for your home improvement tasks, we tested and reviewed four of the top laser levels. We then put together this comprehensive buying guide to help you find the best product for your home, and you can find more information about shopping for tools in our tool buying guide.
As opposed to a bubble level that allows you to straighten one picture frame or one piece of wall decor, a laser level works by projecting one or more beams of light across the room, allowing you to level several pieces at once and making for an excellent leveling tool for DIY projects.
Top 7 Laser Levels
Based on our research, these are the best laser levels available for home projects.
- DEWALT Line Laser: Best Overall
- Huepar Cross Line Laser Level: Best 360-Degree Level
- Motovera Laser Level: Best Value
- Bosch Cross-Line Laser Level: Best All-Inclusive Kit
- RockSeed Laser Level: Best Small Kit
- SKIL Self-leveling Cross Line Laser Level: Best with Clamp
- BLACK+DECKER Laser Level: Best Basic Level
How We Tested and Ranked the Best Laser Levels
Our team has been reviewing products, conducting testing, and creating resources for homeowners for over six years. We take pride in our testing process, which we carefully customize to produce the most helpful information for homeowners. For laser levels, we examined the following factors:
- Beam Features: When deciding which laser level is best, a main consideration is the laser beam itself. To evaluate this, we looked at the number of beams, the color of the laser, and how visible it was in different settings: lights on, lights off, and during outdoor use.
- Feature Set: While all laser levels have the same basic functionality, some come with additional features that might make them more useful. These include auto-leveling capability, IP rating for dust and water-proofing, magnet mounts, and additional accessories.
- Price Point: Laser levels are available in a range of price points, from budget models with a single line to heavy-duty models with two or more lines.
How Do the Best Laser Levels Compare?
The table below compares the best laser levels on range, color, and more.
| Product | Range | Laser Color | Self-Leveling | Dimensions |
|---|---|---|---|---|
DEWALT Line LaserCheck Price | 165 feet | Red | Yes | 9.65 x 9.25 inches |
Huepar Cross Line Laser LevelCheck Price | 85 feet | Green | Yes | 11.2 x 8.2 inches |
Motovera Laser LevelCheck Price | 100 feet | Green | Yes | 5.5 x 3.4 inches |
Bosch Cross-Line Laser LevelCheck Price | 50 feet | Red | Yes | 4.4 x 2.2 inches |
RockSeed Laser LevelCheck Price | 100 feet | Red | Yes | 3.9 x 3.5 inches |
SKIL Self-leveling Cross Line Laser LevelCheck Price | 65 feet | Green | Yes | 12.3 x 3.8 inches |
BLACK+DECKER Laser LevelCheck Price | 25 feet | Red | No | 7.3 x 7 inches |
Best Overall
DEWALT Line Laser
This laser level is designed for long-distance use, as it can achieve a range of up to 165 feet with remarkable accuracy. It has a self-leveling design that’s fully water- and debris-resistant and displays a bright red beam that’s easy to see in any light condition. This product includes an integrated magnetic bracket that allows it to attach to various materials.
Pros and Cons of DEWALT Line Laser
- High visibility for beam indoors
- Strong magnetic charge
- Comes with a hard case and attached magnetic mount
- Was hard to see outdoors in the sunlight
- Has a high price point
What People Are Saying About The DEWALT Line Laser
Happy customers recommended this line laser because of its accuracy, versatility, and ease of use. Other reviewers noted that it lasted a long time and worked well for various household and professional projects. Dissatisfied customers, however, said they were disappointed the line only projected forwards, while others had issues with the case breaking.
Best 360-Degree Level
Huepar Cross Line Laser Level
Good for: Homeowners looking for a level that can capture measurements of an entire room at once.
This 360-degree level from Huepar provides a full layout of any room from floor to ceiling. We also liked that it came with self-leveling and a pulse mode that extended the range and brightness. This level also comes with an included hard case, a laser target plate for accuracy, and a charging cable.
Pros and Cons of Huepar Cross Line Laser Level
- Came with a durable hard case and magnetic screw mount
- Battery lasts up to eight hours
- Can be used while charging
- Was difficult to hold in position
- Charging port was difficult to open
What People Are Saying About The Huepar Cross Line Laser Level
We found that those who were satisfied with this laser level liked that it delivered bright, easy-to-see green lines that were easy to see from any distance. Others were impressed with its hard case, and several noted that they had positive experiences with Huepar’s customer service team. However, some others felt that this product’s level wasn’t always accurate, and others had difficulty when attempting to use it outdoors.
Best Value
Motovera Laser Level
Good for: Homeowners looking for a green laser level with high visibility at a low price point.
Despite costing significantly less than some other laser levels that we examined, this laser level still provides self-leveling, manual, and power-saving mods, as well as the ability to project up to 100 feet. It is powered by two AA batteries and can be purchased in two-line or twelve-line models depending on your needs.
Pros and Cons of Motovera Laser Level
- Had the brightest green line of any level we tested
- Comes with a soft case, magnetic screw mount, laser target plate
- Has a low price point
- Battery compartment was difficult to open
- Was faint during our outdoor test
What People Are Saying About The Motovera Laser Level
Customers who gave this laser level a positive review liked that it was easy to level and provided accurate measurements. Others were pleased with its durable design and magnetic bracket. However, some reviewers found the instructions difficult to follow and set up difficult. Others said that it was hard to hold still, which made keeping it in place without a tripod difficult.
Best All-Inclusive Kit
Bosch Cross-Line Laser Level
This laser level was one of the top models during our test. It had a highly visible line that extended onto the ceiling and a clear crossing interface. It also includes automatic leveling and had a magnetic plate as well as a laser target plate to increase the beam’s reach.
Pros and Cons of Bosch Cross-Line Laser Level
- Had an easy-to-see line
- Featured a clear crossing interface
- Can be seen outdoors
- Model is heavier than others in this review
- Is pricier than many other laser level models
What People Are Saying About The Bosch Cross-Line Laser Level
Satisfied customers raved about the Bosch laser level’s exceptional accuracy, bright laser beam, and useful locking feature. Many also said that it stayed in place while they worked. Unsatisfied customers struggled to see the beam outside when it was sunny, while others felt the lock switch was difficult to adjust.
Best Small Kit
RockSeed Laser Level
This inexpensive laser level is good for small projects and has several useful features like cross lines, automatic leveling, and an included carrying case. This product has a durable design and is also available as a green laser level as well for greater visibility. It can also be set to a manual-adjustment mode if needed.
Pros and Cons of RockSeed Laser Level
- Had an easy-to-see line
- Featured a clear crossing interface
- Can be seen outdoors
- Model is heavier than others in this review
- Is pricier than many other laser level models
What People Are Saying About The RockSeed Laser Level
Satisfied customers raved about the Bosch laser level’s exceptional accuracy, bright laser beam, and useful locking feature. Many also said that it stayed in place while they worked. Unsatisfied customers struggled to see the beam outside when it was sunny, while others felt the lock switch was difficult to adjust.
Best with Clamp
SKIL Self-leveling Cross Line Laser Level
Good for: Homeowners looking for a wide-reaching laser level that comes with a clamp for secure placement.
The standout feature of this laser level was its included clamp, which makes setup and keeping it secure a breeze. It can project up to 65 feet and also comes with self-leveling for added convenience. Additionally, this laser level includes a micro-USB charging port and has an indicator that tells you when the charge is running low.
Pros and Cons of SKIL Self-leveling Cross Line Laser Level
- Can be purchased with a red or green line
- Includes a soft case, clamp and charging cord
- Features an integrated rechargeable lithium-Ion battery and micro-USB charging port
- Was the faintest of the green levels we tested
- Clamp can be difficult to adjust
What People Are Saying About The SKIL Self-leveling Cross Line Laser Level
We found that customers who were satisfied with this level were pleased with its sturdy base and self-leveling capability. Others appreciated how easy it was to set up and use. On the other hand, we did note that some customers found this laser level to be, but others found the tripod/clamp to be cheaply made, and some found the vertical lines to be hard to see.
Best Basic Level
BLACK+DECKER Laser Level
This laser level performs well for light-duty tasks such as hanging photos, installing shelves, or other small household tasks. It has an affordable price point and also comes with a rotating wall attachment that can stick directly into drywall to create a line where you need it.
Pros and Cons of BLACK+DECKER Laser Level
- Includes a magnetic base
- Includes a rotating wall attachment
- Has a low price point
- Ineffective for long distances
- Requires self-leveling
What People Are Saying About The BLACK+DECKER Laser Level
Many reviewers noted that this laser level was easy to use and that the backlit bubble levels were useful. Others liked that it was well-built and that it pinned to the wall when you needed to make measurements. Unhappy customers were disappointed that the level was too heavy for the magnetic base and that it wasn’t a self-leveling laser level.
What Should You Know Before Buying a Laser Level?
When choosing a laser level for your home, it’s important to consider factors such as the type of laser level, the accuracy of the device, its range and visibility, and any additional features. Read our buying guide below for more information on choosing the best laser level for your needs.
Terms to Know
- Range: This measures the distance away from the laser level that the beam remains visible.
- Self-Leveling: Self-leveling laser levels automatically find and maintain a level within a specific range, so you don’t need to manually level the device.
Types of Laser Levels
Laser levels can project a different number of beams.
- Single-line/spot: This is the most basic type of laser level that projects one beam. Single-line levels work best for leveling one item on a wall, such as a picture frame or coat hook. They’re affordable and portable, but they have a limited laser range.
- Cross-line: These are the most common type of laser levels because they’re relatively affordable, but you can complete more projects with them. They can be split further into two-beam and three-beam models.
- Two-beam: This type of cross-line level has a horizontal line and vertical line that cross at a single point.
- Three-beam: This type of level has a second vertical beam that’s 90 degrees from the first. This provides you with red or green lines for the front, back, and side walls, allowing you to work in three dimensions.
- Rotary line: This type of laser level is used in commercial settings that require more range. They usually have one horizontal beam, but some models also feature a vertical beam. This level type tends to be more expensive and larger than other laser levels.
Laser Level Accuracy
Most entry-level models are accurate to around one-fourth of an inch at 30 feet, which is accurate enough for most household tasks. However, if you’re doing more precise work, such as laying tile on your floors, you’ll want a laser level that’s accurate to around one-eighth of an inch at 30 feet.
Range and Visibility Levels
Cheap lasers only project a beam 20-30 feet before disappearing. Mid-range lasers extend 60-100 feet, and rotary lasers can project upwards of 2,600 feet. Some laser levels are also compatible with receivers. A laser receiver is a separate device that detects a laser. It can help you see a laser better outdoors as well as extend its range. Another factor to consider when it comes to visibility is the laser’s color. Most lasers have red or green beams, with red lasers being more common because they’re affordable to produce. However, green lasers are easier to see outdoors.
Other Features
Laser levels often include features that make them easier to use. For example, a level can come with a tripod attachment point, clamps, or magnets for using it without your hands. Some laser levels are also self-leveling, preventing you from having to look at a bubble to figure out when the line is level. Others have a remote control for easier operation.
Best Uses for a Laser Level
Laser levels are useful devices for homeowners, DIYers, contractors, and anyone else who needs a straight line for leveling. Here are some of the main ways you can use a laser level.
- Hanging photos or wall art: Laser levels allow you to evenly line up multiple pictures or other pieces of art on your wall to ensure they’re even.
- Hanging photos or wall art on multiple walls: In addition to helping you evenly hang photos on a singular wall, you can also use laser levels to project a straight line onto multiple walls, allowing you to hang photos on the same line on both surfaces.
- Checking the slope of an area: For outdoor job sites or construction uses, laser levels are effective for examining the elevation or slope of an area to keep things like foundations, flooring, or ceilings even.
- Door and window alignment: When building a home or installing new doors or windows, laser levels help provide a straight line reference point between two surfaces which helps ensure they remain level.
- Installing cabinets: For kitchen use, you can use a laser level to project a line you want each cabinet to be built to ensure they will be marked on an even line.
- Installing chair rail or wainscoting: Laser levels help keep your chair rail and wainscoting level across the surface of your walls even if it is broken up by a doorway, hallway, or staircase.
Laser Level FAQs
What does the IP rating on my laser level mean?
Ingress Protection (IP) ratings are used to explain how well a casing or enclosure withstands damage from solids and liquids. After the “IP” letters, you’ll see two numbers. The first number indicates how well the casing withstands solids, and the second indicates how well it withstands liquids. The solid number goes up to six, and the liquid number goes up to eight. A common IP rating you’ll see for laser levels is IP54. This rating means that the product can withstand water splashes and dust.
Can I damage my eyes by looking at the laser at my level?
The lasers used in your level are either Class 2 or Class 3, which aren’t strong enough to cause serious damage to your eyes. Class 2 lasers only cause injury if you look at them under magnification, while Class 3 lasers can cause temporary flash blindness if you look directly at the light coming from the device.
What type of battery do laser levels use?
Most of the affordable options use AA batteries or AAA batteries. However, larger laser levels may use a 12-volt battery that’s similar to the one you find in cordless drills or other power tools, and these devices may have a longer battery life. Some laser levels also have rechargeable batteries.
Who This Guide Is For
Laser levels are valuable tools for any DIY or professional construction project. The This Old House Team examined various laser levels and measured their effectiveness, brightness level, included accessories, and more.
How We Selected Laser Levels
To provide our readers with the best product recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.
Initial Research
Our research process began by generating a list of laser levels with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4-5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers.
Expert Insights
Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.
Final Product Selection
We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models altogether. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for various buyers, budgets, and scenarios.
Our Testing Process
Our team rigorously tested each laser level in our final lineup to recommend products that provide our readers with the best overall user experience in a fair, balanced, and transparent way.
At the end of the day, our overarching goal is to recommend products that provide our readers with the best overall user experience in a fair, balanced, and transparent way.
During testing, we evaluated each item for the following:
- Initial setup/installation
- Clarity of instructions from the manufacturer
- User-friendliness
- Overall performance
- Bonus features and components
- Areas for improvement and potential deal-breakers
Why You Can Trust Us
This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIY-ers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content.
The This Old House Team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published over 1,600 reviews on products in the home space, from doorbell cameras and dining room decor to circular saws and snow blowers.
Once we conclude the research and testing phases, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.