The best laser measure in 2023: precision tools for calculating distances accurately

Man holding one of the best laser measures against a bathroom wall
(Image credit: Getty Images)

The best laser measures are so affordable nowadays, there's really no reason to use a traditional, physical tape measure. You get much more accurate results, they're much less fiddly to use, and you can even get help with your calculations. No wonder they're the standard tool for professionals working in construction, surveying, IT networking, and energy fitting. 

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Laser measures (aka 'laser distance measurers', 'laser distance meters' or 'laser tape measures') take all the hassle out of DIY work, too, by measuring distances precisely, based on the time it takes for a light pulse to be reflected back to the sensor. 

Some also offer the ability to store previous measurements, perform area and volume calculations, and/or export measurements to other devices. A few even let you prepare files for export to 3D design software, helping architects to draw accurate plans and game designers to re-create the real world in pixel form. 

Even if none of these clever features attract you, though, the best laser measures are still worth investing in. Because it's impossible to underestimate the importance of being accurate when it comes to measuring. It really can make the difference between getting a job done quickly and efficiently, and having to scrap it and start again. 

Below, we've carefully curated a selection of the best laser measures on sale today, covering a variety of use cases and a range of budgets. We explain what each has to offer and share the facts and figures you need to choose between them.

The best laser measures in 2023

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Product shot of Mileseey 229ft Digital Laser Tape Measure

(Image credit: Mileseey)

1. Mileseey 70m / 229ft Digital Laser Tape Measure

The best laser measure for DIY

Specifications

Measurement range: 70m / 229ft
Display: Large backlit LCD
Memories: 20 units
Accuracy: ±1/16 inch (±2mm)
Bluetooth: -
Inclinometer: N
Dimensions: 115 x 50 x 30 mm
Weight: 198 g
Power: 2 x 1.5V AAA batteries (included)
Laser: Class II
Protection: IP54
Measurements: M / yd

Reasons to buy

+
Covers up to 70m
+
Useful measurement functions
+
Reasonable price 

Reasons to avoid

-
Other devices measure further

The best laser measures can get quite expensive, but if you just want one for a bit of home DIY, here's our recommendation. This device from Mileseey is quite affordable, and does a good job at measuring, with an accuracy of ±0.2mm/±1/16 inch. With a measuring range of between 16cm and 70 feet, it's dust- and splash-proof to IP54 standards, and offers some useful extra functions. 

For example, you can just measure the hypotenuse, and the horizontal distance and vertical height are calculated automatically. Or you can measure only two hypotenuses, and the vertical height is calculated automatically. 

This device can store up to 20 measurements at one time, and takes two AAA batteries. More expensive models promise more, but for home decoration this is probably all you need.

(Image credit: Leica)

2. Leica D1

The best laser measure for carpentry or flooring

Specifications

Measurement range: 40 m / 130 ft
Display: Illuminated LCD
Memories: 2 measurements
Accuracy: ± 0.08-inch / 2mm
Bluetooth: Yes
Inclinometer: -
Dimensions: 115 x 44 x 24 mm
Weight: 87g
Power: 2xAAA (approx. 20h)
Laser: Class 2 650 nm <1mW
Protection: IP54
Measurements: M/In/Ft

Reasons to buy

+
Elegant design
+
On-screen memories

Reasons to avoid

-
Expensive given features

The maxim in carpentry goes 'measure twice, cut once', and the best laser measure mean you'll get the super-high degree of accuracy you need. 

For these purposes, we like the D1. It's elegant and simple to use, with a light-touch keypad and no more buttons than you need. That makes this a great tool for measuring spaces and single lengths of wood, although those working on larger spaces or outdoors might look for a more powerful laser.

It has some advanced features too. Most notably, it's compatible with Leica’s free Disto Plan app which – via Bluetooth and any Apple or Android phone – extends the two-button operation into a full room measurement tool. You can use this to integrate your measurements into project images or job-site sketches.

(Image credit: Magpie)

3. Magpie VH-80

Bi-lateral laser measure for convenience

Specifications

Measurement range: 80m/ 260 ft
Display: Backlit LCD
Memories: 20 measurement groups
Accuracy: ± 2/16-inch / 3mm
Bluetooth: wi-fi
Inclinometer: N
Dimensions: 44 x 25 x 126 mm
Weight: 91g
Power: 2xAAA
Protection: IP54
Laser: Class 2 635 nm
Measurements: M/In/Ft/Ft+In

Reasons to buy

+
Can hold in middle of measured area
+
Phone connection
+
Take measurements without moving

Reasons to avoid

-
Higher margin of error

Here is a different take on the laser measure, which takes the sum distance (plus its own length) from two lasers. This means it can be pointed in three directions from the centre of a room to get all three measurements needed for an estimate of the volume without needing to take a step. 

The slight sacrifice is that the device has twice the margin of error that a single laser measure would have. But for contract estimators this is unlikely to be a huge issue. On the plus side, the device has a partner app for both iOS and Android, which can not only assist with area calculations for materials but exports data and sketches in JPEG, PDF & XLS. 

(Image credit: Mileseey)

4. Mileseey S6

The best laser measure for factories and warehouses

Specifications

Measurement range: 100 m / 328 ft
Display: Backlit LCD
Memories: 20 measurement groups
Accuracy: ± 1/16-inch / 1.5mm
Bluetooth: -
Inclinometer: Yes
Dimensions: 113 x 47 x 27 mm
Weight: 136g
Power: 2xAAA
Laser: Class 2 650 nm <1mW
Measurements: M/In/Ft/Ft+In

Reasons to buy

+
100m range
+
Digital angle measure
+
Low price for specifications

Reasons to avoid

-
Range may be overkill

The Mileseey S6 is a versatile electronic measure with a long measuring range of 100m, making it more useful in factories and warehouses as well as large apartments and other big spaces. It also offers area, distance, volume and Pythagorean measurements.

It's reasonably robust, with IP54 ingression protection. The rubber body makes for a good grip and drops aren’t much of a concern. A bubble-level is included, as well as electronic inclinometer for those just wanting to quickly check a level, or passing the tool to their older workmate and wanting to side-step a “good old days” lecture.

(Image credit: Leica)

5. Leica Disto S910

Ladder-free measurement, to an angle, with AutoCAD output

Specifications

Measurement range: 0.5-300m / 2-984 ft
Display: Backlit LCD
Memories: 50 measurements + 20 x 30 points
Accuracy: ± 1/16-inch / 1mm
Bluetooth: Y
Inclinometer: Y
Dimensions: 164 x 61 x 32 mm
Weight: 290 g
Power: Lithium ion
Protection: IP54
Laser: Class 2 650 nm 1mW
Measurements: M/In/Ft

Reasons to buy

+
Ideal for generating full 3D measurements 
+
Optional SmartBase to measure angle
+
Color point finder camera

Reasons to avoid

-
Priced to match its features 
-
Tripod mount not supplied as standard

The Leica Disto S910 shows how much more can be achieved with this technology than simple straight-line measurements. Yes, it's expensive. But there are many for whom it will soon earn the investment back. 

The ability to take a series of measurements from a single tripod position using the SmartBase is made easier by the built-in camera’s 4x zoom, used to accurate locate points for precise targeting. Exporting the data as DXF to AutoCAD files is easy thanks to WiFi or Bluetooth, or you can go to the Android/iOS Disto App. There are also an amazing number of complicated area and volume calculation features built in, so you can deliver a verdict on site. 

(Image credit: Bosch)

6. Bosch GLM400CL Blaze

The best laser measure with a camera

Specifications

Measurement range: 120m / 400ft
Display: Color LED
Memories: 600 measurements
Accuracy: ± 1/16-inch / 1.5mm
Bluetooth: Yes
Inclinometer: Yes
Dimensions: 140x29x64mm
Weight: 210g
Power: Integrated 3.6V Li-ion
Measurements: M/In/Ft/Ft+In

Reasons to buy

+
Built-in camera
+
⊕ Reinforced glass display

Reasons to avoid

-
Regular charging needed

The Bosch GLM400CL Blaze is capable of taking a long measurement on a fairly bright day, but what really sets it apart is the technology it has to back that up. There are a good range of measurements, including (by virtue of the inclinometer) Pythagorean areas, but the icing on the cake is the camera. The camera has two jobs. It helps identify the spot the laser is pointing to more easily, and it records an image with the measurement. 

(Image credit: Leica)

7. Leica Disto E7500i

The best laser measure for surveyors

Specifications

Measurement range: 200 m / 660 ft
Display: Color LCD
Memories: 30 measurements
Accuracy: > 1/16-inch / 1mm
Bluetooth: Y
Inclinometer: Y (±0.2˚)
Dimensions: 143 x 58 x 29 mm
Weight: 198 g
Power: 2xAAA
Protection: IP65
Laser: Class 2 650 nm 1mW
Measurements: M/In/Ft

Reasons to buy

+
Excellent accuracy
+
Rugged

Reasons to avoid

-
Quick user of batteries

Despite its affordable price, the E7500i seems capable of providing the features required by professional surveyors, along with compatibility with Leica’s Disto app and height tracking.

The IP65 rating means it isn’t just splash-proof but will withstand a jet of water. The system can help with all the area, volume, and Pythagorean calculations you’d hope. In addition, the long range, long-distance measurements are easier to achieve thanks to the 4x zoom digital camera and a feature called Smart Horizontal for circumnavigating obstacles. 

The only potential issue is the speed of battery consumption. And of course with any long-range measure a pro would do well to pack a tripod, target and perhaps even laser glasses to be ready for any conditions.

(Image credit: Nikon)

8. Nikon Forestry Pro II

The best laser measure for measuring trees

Specifications

Measurement range: 1600 m / 1 mile
Display: Backlit dot matrix LCD
Memories: 250 measurements
Accuracy: ± 1ft / 0.3m
Bluetooth: -
Inclinometer: Y
Dimensions: 110 x 74 x 42 mm
Weight: 170 g
Power: CR2 Lithium
Laser: Class 1M
Protection: IPX4
Measurements: M / yd

Reasons to buy

+
Illustrated display
+
Excellent optics

Reasons to avoid

-
Limited uses

If you need to calculate the height of trees from a distance, the Forestry Pro makes the task a lot easier. It works using an optical monocular finder, and in that respect, has a lot in common with a more professional version of a golfer's laser rangefinder (for comparison, the eye relief is 18mm). 

With a magnification of 6x, professionals will find their targets reasonably easily, but there's also the Target Priority Mode to helps find objects in sequence if needed. The memory of 250 measurements lets you cover a lot of ground without getting the note pad out, too, and despite the distance measurements take about 0.3 seconds.

(Image credit: TickTock Tools)

9. TickTock Tools Laser Tape Measure

Old-school tape measure and laser combined

Specifications

Measurement range:  60 m / 5m tape
Display: Backlit LCD
Memories: 20 measurements
Accuracy: ± 2mm
Bluetooth: -
Inclinometer: -
Dimensions: 76 x 44 x 76 mm
Weight: 170 g
Power: USB rechargable
Laser: Class 2
Protection: -
Measurements: ft / metres

Reasons to buy

+
Offers a choice of measuring method
+
Rugged design
+
Backlit display
+
Belt/pocket clip

Reasons to avoid

-
Bulkier than traditional tape measure
-
No USB charger supplied

For various reasons, especially at short distances, it’s good to have a traditional tape measure to hand. Putting the laser measure and tape in the same housing might add a bit of bulk, but its logical and practical.

If you like this idea, then we recommend TickTock Tools' Laser Tape Measure. Unlike some other 2-in-1 designs, the rugged housing doesn’t simply bolt the laser measure onto the side, but houses it naturally.

The laser can measure from the front or back (i.e. include its own length in the measurement or not); you use a long-press of the middle button to do this. We don’t love long-press / short-press button uses for simple devices as they can be forgotten between uses, but there isn’t a lot of space on the body for extra buttons! There are also area, volume and Pythagorean calculation modes which, again, come from presses of that button.

(Image credit: Leica)

10. Leica D110

Elegant and simple measure with a good name

Specifications

Measurement range: 60m
Display: Mono LCD
Memories: -
Accuracy: ± 1.5 mm
Bluetooth: Y
Inclinometer: -
Dimensions: 120 × 37 × 23 mm
Weight: 92 g
Power: 2xAAA
Protection: IP54
Laser: -
Measurements: M/In/Ft

Reasons to buy

+
Offers a choice of measuring method
+
Rugged design
+
Backlit display
+
Belt/pocket clip

Reasons to avoid

-
Not rechargeable
-
No area calculations without app

Many photographers find themselves lusting after the Leica brand, and the firm have plenty of options in the laser-measure space. This is their most compact: so small it has a removable belt clip, which has a noticeable impact on the size! 

It's a good-looking design with IP54 splash proof and a backlit screen. It is relatively pricey, but the screen includes previous and current measurements. Not only that, but you can transmit measurements to your phone via Bluetooth and create floor plans and sketches with the Leica Disto app. While the accuracy is higher than many, the design deliberately doesn’t include features like area calculations, leaving these to the app. 

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Tom May

Tom May is a freelance writer and editor specializing in art, photography, design and travel. He has been editor of Professional Photography magazine, associate editor at Creative Bloq, and deputy editor at net magazine. He has also worked for a wide range of mainstream titles including The Sun, Radio Times, NME, T3, Heat, Company and Bella.