The best laser levels for DIY and construction in 2023

Man in hard hat holding one of the best laser levels against a concrete block
(Image credit: Getty Images)

The best laser levels are used on every construction site, but they're just as vital when you're hanging up a frame at home. They can even be useful for composition when you're taking a photo. And they're certainly a much better alternative to the old-fashioned spirit level. 

Patiently eying a bubble in a glass tube was never a very accurate way of doing things, and often called for drawing on surfaces. In contrast, a laser level can be set up and projected onto a surface, giving you a perfectly level line. Better still, the line can remain as long as you work and travel many meters from the point it originates.

Laser levels come in two broad categories. With manual laser levels, you direct the line at any angle to suit your needs. With auto-leveling laser levels, though, an internal pendulum mechanism ensures that the projected lines are perfectly horizontal or vertical if you get the device within a few degrees. This also eliminates the need for finding somewhere to hang a gravity-dependent plumb line. This mechanism can sometimes be locked should you need to project a line at an angle. 

More generally, the best laser levels have the potential to vastly accelerate tasks, and the more ambitious you are, the more features you should look for. A brighter laser will be visible further; laser glasses and sensors can also assist. A turret design offers beams 360˚ coverage so you can work around a whole room. Below, you'll find the best laser levels on the market today, at a range of prices.

The best laser levels in 2023

Why you can trust Digital Camera World Our expert reviewers spend hours testing and comparing products and services so you can choose the best for you. Find out how we test.

Product shot of the Black & Decker BDL220S, one of the best laser levels

(Image credit: Black & Decker)

1. Black & Decker BDL220S

The best laser level for DIY

Specifications

Axis: 1
Range: 140˚
Laser type: Red
Visibility: 10 m / 30 ft
Accuracy: 8mm @ 10m
Base: Clamp
Self-levelling limit: -
Manual mode: Only
Protection: -
Dimensions: 130 x 90 x 63 mm
Weight: 204g
Power: 2xAA
Mount: -

Reasons to buy

+
Cheap & simple
+
Compact

Reasons to avoid

-
Single laser

For most DIY tasks, like hanging pictures, mirrors, curtain rails, and other décor, you need just a single laser beam, which is what this handy little tool offers. It does it in a pleasingly familiar form, too, looking a little like an overweight traditional tape measure, though it sits upon a rotating attachment so you can let go of it and direct it to your chosen angle (at the expense of a tac-hole).

Compared to others the range is relatively low. But this device is better suited to DIYers, hobbyists, and those conducting tasks not too far beyond arm's reach so will be quite powerful enough. Indeed it may do well for unusual tasks like organizing elements of a montage without pencil lines and rulers – perhaps you already need two laser levels?

(Image credit: Black+Decker)

2. Black+Decker Line Laser BDL190S

The best laser level with a stud finder

Specifications

Axis: 1
Range: 140˚
Laser type: Red
Visibility: 6 m / 20 ft
Accuracy: 3mm @ 3m
Base: -
Self-levelling limit: ±4.5°
Manual mode: Only
Protection: -
Dimensions: 254 x 203 x 48mm
Weight: 449g
Power: 2xAA (included)
Mount: Pin

Reasons to buy

+
Auto levelling laser 
+
Includes stud finder

Reasons to avoid

-
Just one laser line
-
You may already have a stud finder

If your prime reason for owning a laser level is to hang pictures on walls, but you're not sure what's in those walls, the Black+Decker BullsEye BDL190S is a great choice. It won't just ensure that everything lines up straight: it also includes a stud finder. That means you can be sure of avoiding wood or metal studs, not to mention live A/C wiring when you hammer in that nail.

Otherwise, it's a very simple device; like the Black & Decker BDL220S above, it provides just a single, self-leveling line. But it does have an LCD screen, attaches to the wall via a small pin, and does what it needs to, reliably and efficiently.

(Image credit: Bosch)

3. Bosch GLL25 Quigo

The best laser level for home carpentry

Specifications

Axis: 2
Range: 160˚ x 2
Laser type: Red
Visibility: 10 m / 30 ft
Accuracy: 8mm @ 10m
Base: Clamp
Self-levelling limit: 4
Manual mode: -
Protection: IP54
Dimensions: 65 x 65 x 65 mm
Weight: 250g
Power: 2xAAA
Mount: 1/4-inch

Reasons to buy

+
Protective switch
+
Sold with clamps
+
Accessibly priced for a big brand

Reasons to avoid

-
Lacks top mount

The quirky cube-like design of this cross-line laser level from Bosch, and the handy adjustable clamp it is usually sold with, make it an excellent tool for DIYers not wanting anything excessively complicated, but who might still have a use for the dual-axis beams.

The included mini grip stand on the bottom can grip a post from 1-5cm thick, meaning you don’t need to worry about whether it’s a ferrous metal. That's very useful if you want to use your step-ladder as a support. 

The slide-down cover for the optics also locks the pendulum, meaning this tool is well protected against a clumsy owner too. And one extra feature that might appeal to some – albeit one you need to choose at purchase by choosing the Bosch Quigo Plus – is the option of interval marking on the lasers to help space things out evenly.

(Image credit: Huepar)

4. Huepar 621CG

The best portable laser level for flexibility

Specifications

Axis: 2
Range: 360˚ x 1
Laser type: Green (+ plumb line red)
Range: 40m / 130ft
Accuracy: 2mm @ 10m
Self-levelling limit:
Manual mode: Y
Protection: IP54
Dimensions:  122 x 69 x 107 mm
Weight: 230g
Power: 4 x AA
Mount: 1/4-inch & 5/8-inch 

Reasons to buy

+
360˚ where needed
+
Dual plumb line dots
+
Removable magnetic mount

Reasons to avoid

-
Slightly more can buy dual 360˚ devices

Designed with tripod-based operation in mind, the 621CG has a 360˚ green laser from the top, as well as a line that can be projected from one side. This is assuming the device is positioned with the tripod mount at the base and projects 140˚ so it can reach the floor and ceiling. 

Pendulum auto-leveling is included, and this can also be locked for angle work. An additional touch is an up/down red laser, which can act like a plumb line, projecting red dots above and below itself.

While some might prefer a rechargeable device, the 4xAA batteries are easy to source. We also appreciate the inclusion of the removable magnetic mount – a choice of weight over portability is available this way.

(Image credit: Huepar)

5. Huepar Box-1G

The best 2-axis laser level for value

Specifications

Axis: 2
Range: 130˚ H, 150˚ V
Laser type: Green
Range: 45m / 150ft
Accuracy: 2mm @ 10m
Self-levelling limit:
Manual mode: Y
Protection: IP54
Dimensions: 95 x 58 x 85 mm
Weight: 598g
Power: 4 x AA
Mount: ¼-inch

Reasons to buy

+
Cheap 
+
Simple
+
Compact

Reasons to avoid

-
Pulse mode requires Heupar receiver

The Box-1G can tackle all the same scenarios that other cross-beam lasers can, with the added advantages that come with a 510nm “Green” laser. As well as the self-leveling pendulum, which like most works within 4˚, there is a lock for manual mode, so you can take on stair laying and other tasks involving angles. 

You can expect the four batteries to keep the laser lit for four hours. That's better than some rivals, and you can cycle through the beams with the power button to extend that time or swap the batteries with no charging if needed.

Despite the low asking price, a magnetic bracket – which screws into the standard tripod mount – is also included. So for many tasks, it’s hard to suggest spending more, though you will need to budget for batteries, as they last under five hours.

(Image credit: Cigman)

6. Cigman CM-701

The best budget 3-axis laser level tool

Specifications

Axis: 3
Range: 360˚ x 3
Laser type: Green
Detector Range: 30m / 100ft
Accuracy: 3mm @ 10m
Base: Yes
Self-levelling limit:
Manual mode: Y
Protection: IP54
Dimensions: 85 x 78 x 52 mm
Weight: 340g
Power: 3.7V 4000mAh Li-ion
Mount: ¼-inch

Reasons to buy

+
All pro features
+
Pulse mode for receivers

Reasons to avoid

-
Adaptors have mix of tripod mounts

Though it’s quite small for a 3-plane laser, the CM-701 is a powerful device with a built-in battery. It's one of the cheapest available in the rugged professional category but goes out of its way to be useful on-site. The turret design means there are 360˚ lasers in all three axes, but to reduce the drain on the battery, each can be individually switched off via its own button on the case – no multiple presses to cycle through the lasers (though the four brightness levels are all accessed via the power button).

The included remote control can also be used to switch off the lasers so they’re only drawing power as you work, and without the risk of moving the device if it’s staying in place using the magnet bracket. Also included are a precision adjustment tripod and a reflector, so you really get everything the pros get, plus a future-proof USB-C charging socket.

(Image credit: Elikliv)

7. Elikliv-0996 4D

The best budget 4-plane laser level tool

Specifications

Axis: 4
Range: 360˚ x 4
Laser type: Green
Detector Range: 50m / 165ft
Accuracy: 2mm @ 10m
Magnetic base: Yes
Self-levelling limit:
Manual mode: Y
Protection: IP54
Dimensions: 112 x 103 x 89 mm
Weight: 1560g
Power: Rechargeable
Mount: 1/4-inch & 5/8-inch

Reasons to buy

+
Two parallel lines
+
Accessories bundle supplied
+
Magnetic bracket

Reasons to avoid

-
Brand’s history somewhat opaque

While Elikliv’s brand might only be tangentially connected to DIY – they also ship CO2 detectors and pulley systems for fitness enthusiasts – the laser level they’ve chosen to import under their brand is a great example of getting good features for less. With four 360-degree lines, the machine can be adapted to most tasks, from floor tiling upward. In terms of power, two rechargeable batteries are supplied which can keep you going for up to eight hours total – something you can check thanks to an LCD percentage display on the device itself. 

The bundle also includes a remote control, meaning there's no need to knock the device itself when switching lasers. That's not too shabby given the price, and we’re told it’s 1m drop tested.

(Image credit: Bosch)

8. Bosch GLL40-20G

Green laser cross-line to rely on

Specifications

Axis: 2
Range: 160˚ x 2
Laser type: Green
Visibility: 13m / 40ft
Accuracy: 2mm @ 10m
Magnetic base: Yes
Self-levelling limit:
Manual mode: Yes
Protection: IP54
Dimensions: 81 x 81 x 58 mm
Weight: 230g
Power: 2xAA
Mount: Tripod, MM2

Reasons to buy

+
Compact
+
Green laser brightness
+
Very practical clamp mount

Reasons to avoid

-
For small rooms, the GLL30 is cheaper

Pricier than its red laser cousin the GLL30, but more powerful into the bargain, this compact laser level will provide as much guidance as most DIY enthusiasts need, with the advantage of brighter lasers so you can get out on a sunny weekend and get those unfinished tasks done. 

Go beyond 4 degrees and the internal pendulum will lock for protection, meaning the lines can be used for angles too. The batteries will last a little longer than you might expect thanks to Bosch’s VisiMax technology. It’s also appreciated that Bosch includes not only a bag but one of their flexible mounting devices which can screw into the laser’s tripod mount and clamp onto – well, it depends on what you’re working with, but you’ll find something.

(Image credit: DeWalt)

9. DeWalt DW089K

The best laser level for durability

Specifications

Axis: 3
Range: 3 x 180˚
Laser type: Red
Detector range: 50m / 165ft
Visible: 15m / 50ft
Accuracy: 3mm @ 10m
Magnetic Base: Yes
Self-levelling limit:
Manual mode: -
Protection: IP20
Dimensions: 112 x 103 x 49 mm
Weight: 2.16kg
Power: 4xAA
Mount: ¼-inch

Reasons to buy

+
Robust indoors
+
Bright laser
+
Adjustment knob

While it might not have the snappiest of names, the DW089K is certainly built to last, with an almost over-molded design that can certainly stand a drop or two without risking the laser. It is effectively one big roll cage. Use is also straightforward on-site, with the one-button-per-laser operation and an easily gripped big knob allowing for precise adjustment of the intersecting lines (or easy re-direction to the next wall).

A low battery indicator on the side is a useful addition (not that you’ll see it for 25 hours) and the diagrammatic buttons are very clear – confusion seems very unlikely. DeWalt is also to be praised for its typically rugged kit box and the notably brighter laser than predecessors in the same line, though the IP20 build implies the DW089K is not waterproofed.

(Image credit: Leica)

10. Leica Lino ML180

Best laser level for surveyors, decorators, and HVAC installers

Specifications

Axis: 4 + dot
Range: 180 x 4 + beam
Laser type: Red
Detector Range: 100m / 330 ft
Visible: 20m
Accuracy: 0.7mm @ 10m
Self-levelling limit:
Manual mode: Y
Protection: IP54
Dimensions: 250 x 159 x 230 mm
Weight: 2.2kg
Power: NiMH rechargeable (or 2xD)
Mount: 5/8-inch

Reasons to buy

+
Cross Line & Dot Laser
+
Electronic self-leveling

Reasons to avoid

-
Ni-Mh rather than lithium

In keeping with Leica’s tradition of high-quality optics, the ML180 (even though it’s a somewhat unfashionable red laser) has the longest range and the best precision. Any kind of job within scope, even in a large outdoor space, is achievable thanks to the ‘Smart Targeting’ function.

As well as traditional layouts with lines at 90˚ to each other, the XCR Catch device can be placed on a distant wall and, with the help of the ML180, will be guided to the point exactly opposite, to help one operator work from the existing structures like inward-corners. It also projects a dot directly downward to help position.

With such a reliable electronic helper, you’ll also be glad to know that if the 12h battery expires, Leica has your back; you can charge and keep using, it or swap for type D batteries. The pack is pricey, but it includes a good range of accessories (including that remote). You’ll need a 5/8” compatible tripod.

(Image credit: Milwaukee)

11. Milwaukee 3PL-401C

The best laser level for site work

Specifications

Axis: 3
Range: 3 x 360˚
Laser type: Green
Detector range: 75m / 250ft
Visible: 40m
Accuracy: 3mm @ 10m
Magnetic base: Yes
Stabilization:
Manual mode: Y
Dimensions: 165 x 198 x 104 mm
Weight: 1.5kg
Power: 12V 4Ah
Mount: ¼-inch & 5/8-inch

Reasons to buy

+
Professional quality
+
All day operation

Reasons to avoid

-
Heavy, with battery

If you can lay your hands on the understandably sought-after Milwaukee laser level, you’ll definitely impress the other folk on a site. And it’s robust enough that even if they drop it in a fit of jealousy it’ll likely survive.

Of course, it is a green laser – the accepted brighter shade – but it’s bolstered by the power of Milwaukee’s 12V rechargeable batteries which means it can keep projecting those lines the whole working day (and not just union hours; up to 15 according to Milwaukee). If you use any of the firm’s 100 battery-powered tools, this will no doubt have further appeal; If not, one of these REDLITHIUM batteries and charger are supplied.

Other site-worthy aspects are the included rare earth magnets, which more than comfortably support the device on steel stud work, despite its not inconsiderable heft. The device also manages a very impressive 38m visibility on site with the human eye – not a theoretical claim with a measuring device. 

Read more
Best laser measure
The best laser rangefinders
The best thermal imaging cameras
The best borescopes and inspection cameras
The best infrared thermometers
The best night vision goggles
The best handheld light meters

Thank you for reading 5 articles this month* Join now for unlimited access

Enjoy your first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

*Read 5 free articles per month without a subscription

Join now for unlimited access

Try first month for just £1 / $1 / €1

Adam Juniper
Managing Editor

With over 20 years of expertise as a tech journalist, Adam brings a wealth of knowledge across a vast number of product categories, including timelapse cameras, home security cameras, NVR cameras, photography books, webcams, 3D printers and 3D scanners, borescopes, radar detectors… and, above all, drones. 


Adam is our resident expert on all aspects of camera drones and drone photography, from buying guides on the best choices for aerial photographers of all ability levels to the latest rules and regulations on piloting drones. 


He is the author of a number of books including The Complete Guide to Drones, The Smart Smart Home Handbook, 101 Tips for DSLR Video and The Drone Pilot's Handbook