As we’re sure you’ll agree, when it comes to laser levels, finding the best one — or finding narrowing down any laser level at all — is nearly impossible.

There is so much that goes into these products and so many interesting and complicated technologies that we won’t blame you if you say that you’ve tried time and time again to choose one and come up with nothing.

Not only are you on the hook when it comes to choosing things like the colour of the laser level beam, the accuracy of the level and the visibility and brightness, but you also need to choose a model that comes with a design and price point that works for you too.

You are relying on these tools for some rather vital workflows after all.

All that in mind, we have done just about all of the heavy lifting for you when it comes to laser levels — including a breakdown of the different kinds of laser levels and some features to be on the look out for.

That said, we will kick off our laser level buying guide with some important things to consider such as accuracy, battery level, colour and much more. All of these factors are integral to getting the best laser level — so make sure to factor these in before you move forward with a purchase!

Let’s take a look below at some essentials to consider when buying a laser level.

What to Consider in a Laser Level

Before we dive into all the best laser levels in Australia, we ask that you take a quick look over some important features and factors we’ve outlined below!

The Level of Accuracy

We know that you will agree with us when we say there’s nothing more important in a laser level than the accuracy offered by the tool.

You are using your laser level for some rather important tasks after all, and if your accuracy is out of whack, you’re at risk of ruining an entire project.

That in mind, you’ll want to look for the types of laser levels that either off self-levelling accuracy or a pre-set level. These are going to make your life a whole lot easier, and in most cases we would suggest you choose the self-levelling option at all times, unless there’s a specific reason you’re not going to.

The self-levelling models are generally the more expensive of the bunch, however, you’d be better off getting the best accuracy at all times, rather than fiddling. And with that said, our top recommendation is to always choose a self-levelling model where you can.

The Colour of the Laser and Laser Type

A second big consideration you’ll have to keep in mind are the laser colours on offer by manufacturers.

Keep in mind that these colours aren’t simply for show, but rather to assist with the visibility of your laser in specific locations and at different times of the day. There is a pretty good chance that a majority of the people you ask will tell you to only ever consider a red beam, however, there are benefits to opting for a green beam laser as well.

To make this choice a little easier, we’re going to outline some advantages and benefits between the two.

Off the top — your red beams are going to be more the power efficient of the bunch and that means you’re getting a longer use time out of your laser level. On top of this, if you’re primarily working indoors, there isn’t really a need for anything other than a red laser level beam.

Over to the green — and these beams are outlandishly powerful. In fact, they are more than 300 times more powerful than their red counterparts and this means that you’re going to find these far more useful for outdoor tasks and those heavy-duty projects that need a clearly visible and accurate laser beam to rely on.

In all, for our readers who generally work indoors and need to rely on a laser level, your red beams will do just fine. For the outdoor projects, a green beam is your best option.

The Battery Life and Longevity

Another key factor to keep in the back of your mind is the battery on the laser level.

As you’ll already know, batteries will degrade with age, and that means over time you’ll be looking at less and less use time out of your laser level. However, the higher quality batteries will degrade a lot slower.

In line with this, you’ll always want to take a look at your laser level’s projected run time and take a look at the typical battery life in a single day’s use. For those who need to rely on their levels in unpowered sites, for example, you’ll want to choose something that offers a rather long running time.

On top of that, finding some information on the number of charges your device will be able to handle is good information to have as well. This will greatly affect the life cycle of your battery and determine how long you’ll be able to use your laser level for before you need to replace your battery.

Another thing to keep a note of are the amp-hour ratings that come along with the batteries included in your laser level. These are essentially going to let you know how long your battery is going to last after a single charge.

Most models on the market will offer around eight hours or more, at least a single day’s use, however, you may also be finding some laser levels that last a staggering 30 hours — and so these might be worth considering if you’re working at unpowered project sites for a longer period.

To end, the final thing you’ll want to keep note of are you voltage metrics. These are going to let you know how many volts are available from your battery to the laser itself. A level with a lower voltage will have less power on tap for your laser to utilise and that means a dimmer laser.

We suggest you always look for a higher voltage when it comes to laser levels.

Usability and Complexity

When it comes to laser levels, it’s important to note that these tools aren’t exactly the easiest to use, however, a little goes a long way when a manufacturer spends the time to make their product a little more simple for their customers.

One big thing to note is that laser levels don’t typically have a standard user interface and so each model you look at will be entirely different from the last. With that said, it is crucial to take a look at user guides and user experiences online to find out if a laser level is simple to use or a little too difficult.

In most cases, you will find that laser levels do typically have just one or two buttons on offer — however some have a few more than this.

That in mind, keep a look out of the buttons and the interface on offer and you’ll be in good hands when it comes to investing in something that’s going to work best for you.

One last thing to note is that just because a laser level has fewer buttons or a simple interface doesn’t mean it lacks features or functionality. A lot of laser levels still remain quite functional, though they have a more simple interface because of careful design.

In all, choose a laser level that’s simple to use and going to make your life easier on site, not harder.

The Type of Beam Used

Another major point to focus on during your journey to finding the best laser level is understanding and selecting the best type of laser beam used.

If you ask someone in the know about laser levels, they’ll tell you that there are definitely two different types of lasers used, and one type can be a whole lot better than the other when it comes to usability and effectiveness.

These two types are your vertical and horizontal lasers, but also your singe and dual beam options.

For the utility of these lasers, you’re going to find that for floor levelling, you’re going to want a horizontal laser in that it helps you find irregularities a whole lot easier and quicker than other laser types — speeding up your workflow.

To add to this, dual beam lasers are going to be your best bet if you’re looking to make use of both laser types — vertical and horizontal. With these two lasers on your side you can work on tasks such as planning cabinetry and wall fixtures that are perfectly in line with floor levels and wall levels at the same time.

Finally, with a carefully selected laser that is either dual beam or single beam, you’re able to get more work done faster and with less hassle.

The Auto-level Features on Offer

As we mentioned earlier, you’re always going to want to look for a laser level that has the ability to level itself.

You’ll save a tonne of time here and be able to rely on the laser to simple level out and get things all ready for you to get to work. This doesn’t only save you time either, it also means you’re getting a more accurate result in that the laser has a lot more prowess in levelling itself than user might.

These auto-levelling features work to take out human error and will generally get you a far better result in little to no time at all.

The Operating Temperature Options

As we’re sure you’ll agree, you want a laser level to last as long as possible. These are some rather expensive, though often essential tools after all.

With longevity concerned, you’ll want to make sure you’re choosing a model that is able to operate effectively in a range of different temperatures. This in mind, you’ll be able to use the laser level at different project sites and altitudes along with different seasons and not need to worry about how long the level is going to last.

For Australians, this is particularly important due to the weather in WA, for example, sometimes exceeding 50º Celsius and falling into the negatives in the ranges. If you want a laser level that can survive both of these locations, you must take a look at the operable temperatures on offer.

A Choice of Multiple Mounting Threads

Sometimes we need our laser levels to be mountable in both indoor and outdoor locations, and if you’ve selected a laser level that does not have the mounting threads for these locations, then you’re going to be out of luck.

Be sure that you stay on the lookout for a laser level that gives you the chance to mount on to things such as walls and rails, but also tripods and other surfaces too. With more versatility in your mounting locations, you’re going to have a faster and smoother setup each time you go to use your laser level.

Choosing A Good IP Weather Resistance

To add to the use of the laser level in multiple different environments, you’re also going to want to make sure your laser level can be used in weather conditions that aren’t exactly ideal.

This is where the IP or Ingress Protection Rating comes into play.

This measurement is what tells you how weather-resistant a product is when it comes to dust and water penetration. Ideally, you want to choose a model of laser level with the highest IP mark as possible. This will mean that when things get a little wet or dusty, you can rely on the laser level being unaffected.

However, for our readers who are an indoor-only user of their laser levels, the IP rating shouldn’t mean too much for you.

The Inclusion and Support for Remote Controls

Going back to workplace efficiency, you’re going to want to select a laser level that has some form of remote operability.

If you’re someone who often uses their laser level on their own, you’re certainly going to want to invest in something that gives you the chance to use a remote control. This will make everything a lot easier for you and you’re not going to have to routinely move back and forward between your laser level to make adjustments, etc.

In line with this, you should keep in mind that there are a tonne of different remote controls on offer which have different maximum operable distances. You won’t find a control that offers the same range as the laser itself, however, you can still find some pretty good ones on sale.

To end, always be on the lookout for a remote control where you can.

A Warning Indicator for Battery Levels

If you’ve ever owned a laser level, you will know how frustrating it is when things simply ‘go out’ when the battery dies. And if you don’t have your charger on hand, you’re essentially done for the day.

That in mind, one of the biggest considerations we have when it comes to battery life is an indication system and a warning indicator. You want to know what your battery level is at all times, along with whether the battery is going to go flat any time soon, and when to plug the laser level back in.

We always suggest looking for something with an audible battery indication in that it’s quite hard to miss this.

The Different Types of Laser Levels

With all of our considerations out of the way above, we have a couple more things to keep in mind when it comes to buying the best laser levels for 2021.

As we’re sure you’ll agree, every work site and every work flow is a little different and relies on a set of rather unique tools. That in mind, you won’t typically find a laser level that is a one-size-fits-all model, and so you will have to do some research and some digging.

We have some important considerations and tidbits below for you on the different types of laser levels on offer today, and which you may want to consider for your specific workflows.

The Line Lasers

Off the top we have the most common type of laser out there today and that’s the trusted old-school line laser.

These are the models that project either a vertical or a horizontal laser to your chosen surface and will give you a projection either straight forward or as a 360º option.

With these laser levels on your site, you’ll be able to see whether there is an issue with levelling on one wall, or all four walls in a room, which becomes especially useful and efficient for those in construction and architectural trades.

The Dot Lasers

A little less common are the dot lasers, though they are incredibly versatile and useful in a number of different workflows.

These lasers project a dot on to a surface and you’ll be able to choose whether the dot is plumb, level or square-shaped to make your measurement and assessment of a wall or surface more simple.

The more common workflows that will use these types of laser levels are plumbing installation and electrical work.

The Rotary Lasers

To the least common now, though the models that do remain quite effective at their job are the rotary lasers.

With these types of laser levels, you’re going to find that there is a bigger projection line that is shone in a rotary way. This will mean that you’re able to use these laser levels to assist with tasks such as foundation digging, masonry workflows and grade work.

All of those laser types out of the way, we’re now sure that you’ll have a little more knowledge about which is the best for you and whether you would prefer one model over the other.

Our Top Pick Laser Levels for 2021

Now that we’ve let you know all you need to know about laser levels and what to consider in a model for your own workflows, we’ll go over our list of the best on the market today.

All of these options are fantastic for those in just about all trades, and with plenty of features on offer that improves efficiency at work, you’re going to be in good hands with whichever model you choose below.

The DW088K by DeWalt

As we’re sure you’d expected, a DeWalt landed at the very top of our list, and for a good reason.

These models are our top choice down to the fact that you’re getting a great durable design here, a warranty that’s far longer than you’ll likely ever need and a tonne of reviews online that tout this laser levels a game changer for their workplace.

You’re going to find a line casting distance here of around 100 feet or 30 metres, which is far longer than you’ll often need on most worksites in construction. This is also a rather long casting distance for a typical line laser too.

To add, there are both horizontal and vertical lines supported here, which makes a range of workflows a lot easier for our readers.

When it comes to accuracy we’re happy to note that there’s an accuracy level outlined on the DeWalt website as being ±¼″ per 100′ or ±1/8″ per 30′.

On to the automatic level features we highlighted so often above, we’re glad to say that DeWalt comes in clutch here with there internal pendulum-assisted levelling. This will mean that you’re able to find true plumb levels without any intervention at all. In fact, you’ll be able to rely on the levelling to reach an accuracy of up to 4º which is outstanding in our opinion.

As a precaution, DeWalt’s laser also gives you a warning if things do go out of whack a little in the form of a blinking laser. It will simply begin flashing if it notices that things are out of alignment and you’ll be able to work to re-adjust the laser before moving on with your next task.

The laser level here also comes with an excellent magnetic swivel too, which means you’re able to rely on the line to simply project parallel or in line with the wall or material you’ve attached the swivel to. That means there’s no chance of the level losing its connection to a surface.

Another stellar feature to keep in mind is that there is an IP54 rating here which means you’re going to see it be reasonably resistant to a light spritzing or to dust.

For our readers who primarily work indoors, though sometimes in unsavoury outdoor conditions, this laser level is designed for you.

To end, we’re happy to say that AA batteries come into play here and they’re also included in the device’s packaging. That said, you’re able to rely on the three AA’s in here to get you around 15 hours and up to 20 hours of use in a single charge, which is more than ideal.

The Top Features

• A Class 2 Red Laser
• Up to 20 Hours Battery Life
• Automatic Self-levelling
• Dust and Water Resistant

The Compact Self-Levelling by Hammerhead

With the DeWalt being rather costly, we have a great alternative model for those who are more focused on the budget.

Coming with a price tag almost 300 per cent lower than the DeWalt, the Hammerhead Self-levelling model might be your best bet. It doesn’t skimp on any essential features, and you’re still getting a great build and experience here.

One thing to note is that a few rather ‘high end’ features are missing here, though for most people, at this price tag, this isn’t too much of an issue.

Off the top, our favourite ‘feature’ in a sense is the price of the device. It’s outstandingly affordable in that you can often find it around $50 online and in store. With this in mind it’s a great option regardless of the features it brings.

For portability and ease of use, the Hammerhead model brings great portability along with the ability to simply fit in the pocket of those intending to use it. There’s no issue at all here when it comes to getting this laser level to and from your worksite.

When it comes to the projection distance, we will say that things can be a little lacklustre, though only when compared to the bigger models out there. With the size in consideration, the throw of the laser is absolutely fine.

You’re getting a projecting of the laser at around 30 feet or 9 metres which is, again, right around the ideal length for those in the fields of construction and architecture. The accuracy touted by Hammerhead sits at ±¼″ per 30′ which is, again, outstanding.

Some users online have outlined that this may be the ideal laser for those who are looking for a little help in the home DIY market. Plus, throwing the laser at around 9 metres is plenty enough for those of our readers who need something to help out with ensuring paintwork and the installation of mirrors and other decor items are nice and level.

When we get down to the self-levelling capabilities we’re happy to say they’re in line with all of the more costly models out there. You’re going to be able to rely on the model’s pendulum to get your accuracy to within that sweet spot of 4º and that means a near-perfect level.

To add to this, if you do adjust the level on your own and the Hammerhead finds it a little out of whack, it will work to adjust this for you.

Moving down the list of features, there is also a manual adjustment warning/suggestion feature here too. If you adjust your laser level, or it fails to find that perfect level, the built-in LED flash light atop the level will flicker and let you know to make some adjustments.

To end, the model runs on just two AA batteries and you’ll be getting a use time of around five hours per change. This might not be the best for the worksite users, however, for the at-home and DIY market this is certainly long enough.

The Top Features

• Up to 30-feet Projection
• A Locking Mechanism
• Up to 5 Hours Battery Life
• Automatic Self-levelling within 4º

The Craftsman 48250

On to another excellent laser level for our readers in 2021 is the Craftsman 48250.

This model remains relatively affordable, though it does have a few nifty tricks up it sleeve to edge out the competition. You’re going to be finding an outstanding projection range here of around 100-feet along with a great design, incredible accuracy and a design that remains quite durable.

To kick things off, you’re going to find that the projection range is a winner for just about everyone interested in a laser level this year. As we mentioned, the 100 feet range or 30 meter range is going to suffice for all users regardless of their field.

On top of this, when accuracy comes into play, you’ll also be able to rest assured that this laser is going to keep you on your toes and well within the measurements you need.

The accuracy is outlined as ±¼″ per 30′ like with many other lasers on the market, in the higher end, and that means there’s nothing to be concerned about when it comes to getting things perfectly aligned.

For our readers wondering about the range and the accuracy conflicting with one another, we’re happy to say that being a dual-beam mode, you’re getting a laser that remains incredibly accurate regardless of how far the projection distance is.

You can see objects at an incredible distance with total clarity and that means and more precise, accurate and smooth workflow with fewer adjustments or requirements to move your laser to a new location.

For the times when the laser is bumped or knocked out of place or level by the wind or just about anything else, you’re not going to be out of the loop. There is a rather obvious sound that comes from the laser to let you know what’s happened.

On top of this, the laser will try to re-level itself for a few seconds before calling you over to help it out — excellent for most of those occasions when the level was only moved just a tad.

In all, you will know when things are out of whack.

As we mentioned, there is a dual beam laser built into this model and that means vertical and horizontal projection is supported here. You’re going to find more usability and practically here.

To add, both of these vertical and horizontal lasers can be used at the same time or separate which makes the process of lining things up a tonne easier.

Keep in mind that you can also move the laser line within the advertised 110º range too, so getting an entire room covered without a 360º is possible here without too much work.

Adding to all of those great features, the laser does come with a great base mount that makes all of these changes of direction a whole lot easier, and it comes with a built-in magnet to boot. You can simply set it down on a metal surface (or adhere it to a tripod with the supported tripod connection) and be on your way when it comes to moving the laser level around.

A feature or material inclusion rather, that we loved, were the added pushpins that come in the box. These give you the chance to stick the laser level to a wall without an issue and get to work with the laser this way, something that not too much other lasers offer.

The model is powered by three AA batteries and comes with a running time of around 20 hours, fantastic for just about all workplaces and workflows, both powered and unpowered.

The Top Features

• A Long Projection Range
• Some Great Added Features
• Designed to Withstand a Drop of 10m
• Up to 20 Hours Battery Life
• Automatic Self-levelling

The SC-L01 by Tacklife

We know that sometimes lasers with standard accuracy levels aren’t enough for some workflows, and that means it’s time to kick things up a notch with regards to pinpoint accuracy.

Our top choice for those with these requirements is the SC-L01 by Tacklife.

If you’re a designer, architect or a builder who is working on a project that requires some exceedingly high accuracy points, then this is the option for you. You’ll be able to rest assured that your measurements are going to line up without an issue and the safety of occupants in a building, for example, is at the top of your mind.

Getting into the SC-L01 you’ll be able to see that there is an intelligent pendulum levelling system coming into play here. If you work to place the level within 4º of range either vertically or horizontally you’re going to find that the unit essentially works to adjust to within a range of ± 1/8″ at 30 Ft — which is higher than just about anything else that you’ll find on our list.

That in mind, if the level does fall out of alignment or out of ‘level’ with itself, it will continually blink until you work to re-align it to that ideal 4º where it will adjust itself once again.

You will also be able to rely on the protection range of 115 feet or 35 metres with the detector too, which means you’re getting a very far throw distance and accuracy that is almost unmatched — at least in this price point.

On top of all the great alignment and levelling features, the model has also been designed to be as rugged as possible. Something we greatly appreciate for a laser level that has some rather sensitive internals.

You’ll find both dust and waterproofing coming into play here as well as the assurance that you’re not going to kill the machine if you drop it — thanks to shock resistance.

The IP54 rating means you’re also able to rely on the laser level to work well in just about all environments too, so getting wet, dry or dusty is all well and good here.

We did want to point out that the mounting mechanism is also a win for us in that you can essentially mount this model on anything from a tripod to a magnetic surface. This is great for those who want to save time and get on with the job, there’s minimal fiddling and no reason to slow down at work.

As for the longevity of the model and the use case, you’ll be able to rely on the two AA batteries here to get you around 12 hours of use. Which is particularly good considering other dual AA models only last around five to seven hours.

To add, the warranty here is good for two years and you’re able to make use of this for everything from issues with operation to manufacturing defects.

The Top Features

• A Very Long Projection Range
• Support for 360º
• Designed to Withstand Drops
• Up to 12 Hours Battery Life
• Automatic Self-levelling

The GRL400HCK by Bosch

To our final laser level for 2021 the Bosch GRL400HCK is our top choice for those who would like the perfect partner in their at-home and DIY projects.

A lot of the other laser levels on our list simply came with the laser, or as a standalone product and nothing else. For this model however, you’re getting a whole kit that ensures you have everything you need to get your day’s work done.

Keep in mind that this model is just a tad more costly, but you’re getting more out of the product.

One of the best perks here is that the model is a rotating level and you can rely on speeds from 350RPM all the way through to 1200RPM with 600RPM being the middle ground.

That in mind, you’re able to use this model for just about all of your at-home projects and be able to rely on self-levelling features so long as you get the laser level to within 5º of alignment.

A rather notable standout feature here is that with both vertical and horizontal lasers here, you’re getting a patented levelling system from Bosch. This essentially means that the dual laser is used to level itself to improve the accuracy of the device. That in mind, you’re getting a closer result than with most other laser levels out there.

The remote included with this laser level is also top-notch, as with everything Bosch makes, and that means it comes with a 500-feet range and the option to control just about everything on the level.

To end, there is the ideally rugged design here that makes sure everything stays safe in the event of a drop, especially the rotary head. That fact kept noted, if you’re someone who does sometimes have the tendency to knock over or bump their laser levels, or anything else for that matter, this is great peace mind.

The battery life here is 40 hours and it comes with a built-in battery which means you’re able to rely on this model to last for a lot longer than the AA models out there. You’ll also find a standby mode coming into play here too.

The Top Features

• Comes with an IP56 Rating
• Designed to Withstand Drops
• Up to 40 Hours Battery Life
• Automatic Self-levelling
• Included Carrying Case

Conclusion

We know that investing in a laser level can be particularly confusing given all of the technologies and features coming into play, though with the right guide and understanding of how you’ll be using your laser level, the purchase isn’t all that difficult.

That in mind, with our reviews above and the things to consider you’re going to be in good hands when it comes to investing in a new laser level.

We suggest that you always consider your work site, your required level of efficiency and the use case for your laser level before making a purchase. You want your tool to assist in getting more done and also being as accurate as possible, and that means looking at as many of the technicals as possible.

In all, take our considerations in mind when researching for your laser level and do your best to understand how much accuracy is required when it comes to getting work done either at home, in the shed or at construction projects.

You want to be able to rest assured your measurements are accurate and your laser level is going to survive a bump, a spritzing with rain or a drop here and there.