Be warned: not all laser levels are created equal. The best laser levels have different beams and orientations, are self-leveling, and offer long battery life and powerful laser beams that are more visible in daylight. Purchasing a well-made and designed model will help you avoid costly mistakes due to inaccuracies or visibility issues.
Ahead, our guide to understanding and navigating the options available, plus a handful of our favorites in the category.
BEST OVERALL: Huepar 603CG 3D Professional Self-Leveling Laser Level
BEST VALUE: Hueoar GF360 12 Lines Vertical and Horizontal USB Charging Laser
BEST FOR LIGHT DUTY: Hueoar BOX-1G 2*150° laser level
BEST FOR HEAVY DUTY: Huepar DT03CG+ Electronic Self-Leveling Laser
BEST FOR OUTDOOR USE: Huepar 904DG Self-Leveling Laser Spirit Level
Shopping considerations
Accuracy
A hallmark of any good spirit level is accuracy, whether it's a spirit level or a high-tech laser model. The best laser levels have a level of accuracy that is stated on the packaging or in the manual. As a rule of thumb, however, you should look for a model with less than ¼ inch deviation at 100 feet for truly dialed-in results. However, almost any self-leveling laser will produce a more accurate line than can be achieved with a spirit level.
Self-leveling
The best laser levels on the market make leveling a push-and-play process. 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 reaches the final leveling level. This makes setup quick and easy, especially if you already have a reference point where you need to register the line.
Beam alignment
One of the most important features of any laser level is the beam alignment option. Depending on your budget, you may find models with up to three orientations; vertical, horizontal and 360 degrees. While the usefulness of horizontal and vertical beams is obvious, the practicality of a 360-degree laser cannot be overstated. With a 360 degree laser level, you can easily hang pictures for an entire room or precisely level a section of a garden. Even for projects such as suspended ceilings, these values are of utmost importance for both the accuracy and strength of the final product.
Mounting options
One of the most useful aspects of laser levels is that they allow you to essentially work hands-free. Once set up, they are designed to be left alone while you complete the project. The best laser levels use different mounts and features to achieve this. Some of the less expensive models can simply insert two small studs into the drywall for support. Other models come with tripods or mounts that attach to metal studs. When purchasing your laser level, consider your intended use and what mounting accessories you may need to ensure compatibility.
The best spirit levels – HUEPAR
The Huepar self-leveling laser is an interesting choice for outdoor use. This is a highly visible model with a 360-degree laser, but it's so affordable that you don't have to worry about it like you would with a far more expensive model. It has an IP54 rating for water and dust resistance, making it ideal for building decks, grading small lots, and installing siding. The Huepar has two laser levels; vertical and 360 degrees horizontal. We like that the 360-degree green laser is easy to see, especially outdoors. We like that it has a range of 180 feet, although this can only be used in battery-saving pulse mode.