What Is a Laser Level?
A laser level is an electronic alternative to a traditional level. For a do-it-yourselfer, a laser level makes it easy to level artwork, put up wallpaper and install with precision. On construction sites, pros use laser levels for tasks like squaring walls, leveling ground or establishing the slope of an area.
How a Laser Level Works
A laser level works by projecting a bright beam, plane or series of dots onto a surface. The laser lights create reference lines or points for:
- Level, or straight left to right
- Plumb, or straight up and down
- Square, 90-degree angles
- Horizontal, vertical or angled alignment
- Height and slope
Since getting an accurate reference line relies on the lasers being level, laser levels typically include liquid-filled vials and leveling bubbles — like on a standard level — or a self-leveling feature.
Laser levels are typically battery-operated, using either disposable batteries or a built-in rechargeable battery.
The terms level and plumb are common for home improvement projects. Watch What Do Level and Plumb Mean? to see examples of these key terms.
Tips for Choosing the Best Laser Level
As useful as a laser level is, all types don’t suit all projects. To find the right laser level and make the most of your investment:
- Think about your current and future projects.
- Match the laser level type to your projects.
- Compare features that make the tool easier to use.
Types of Laser Levels
Laser levels range from simple DIY models to advanced devices that are suitable for heavy-duty construction jobs.
Don’t look directly into a laser level beam or at the emitter in the device. Always be aware of where the beams are pointing and follow all safety instructions from the device manual.
Line Generator Laser Levels Project Individual Beams
A line generator laser level is usually the best laser level for home projects. This type of level projects one or more laser beams, allowing you to create references for level, plumb and alignment. You can use one of these devices to:
Line generator levels often include a hanger hole, bracket or reusable adhesive pad for hands-free use on a wall. Some include a stud finder, allowing you to use a single tool to level items on a wall and make sure they have good support.
Our guide to using a laser level gives you simple steps for using a line generator laser level, as well as key safety tips.
Cross-Line Levels Project Intersecting Beams
Cross-line laser levels can project perpendicular horizontal and vertical beams. The horizontal beam gives you a level reference and the vertical beam creates a plumb line. The point where the beams cross creates a 90-degree angle reference. These levels can be useful if you need to:
- Hang a large mirror
- Hang wall cabinets
- Install wall tile
- Install wall paneling
- Install door and window trim
Planar Laser Levels Create Intersecting Planes
Planar laser levels create 360-degree intersecting planes around the device rather than lines. For example, one horizontal plane, one vertical plane running in front of and behind the level, and one vertical plane running to the left and right of the device. These planes create level, plumb and 90-degree references on each wall in a room, as well as the ceiling and floor. A three-plane laser level can help an advanced DIYer or a pro accurately:
- Install wall tile
- Install laminate or tile flooring
- Install ceiling tiles
- Lay out new ceiling lights
Plumb-Point Laser Levels Project Reference Dots
Plumb-point laser levels, also known as spot- or dot-laser levels, project dots rather than lines. Three-dot models cast one dot up, one dot down and one dot in front of the level. A five-dot model emits these as well as dots to the left and right. Professionals might use a dot laser level during construction to:
- Ensure a wall is plumb
- Ensure walls are square to each other, the ceiling and the floor
- Mark level or plumb points for electrical, plumbing and ductwork installations
Rotary Laser Levels Create Planes of Light
Rotary laser levels spin a beam in a circle to create either a vertical or horizontal reference plane of light rather than simple lines. A rotary laser kit might include a laser receiver to allow the beam to be visible outdoors, as well as a tripod and a rod for marking grade or slope. These laser levels are typically contractor tools for construction or landscaping. A pro might use a rotary laser level to:
- Plumb walls and level floors in a new home
- Plumb support posts for a deck frame
- Level a piece of ground or plan a slope
Combination Laser Levels Let You Choose the Reference Type
Combination laser levels have multiple functions. You can find levels that project both planes and lines, as well as models that project both lines and dots. These multifunction laser levels let you choose the function that’s best for your application. They’re particularly helpful for pro or heavy DIY work.
Key Laser Level Features to Consider
In addition to understanding laser level types, knowing the available features helps you choose the best laser level for a project. Self-leveling features, range and laser color are three key factors in selecting a level.
Self-Leveling Capability
Self-leveling laser levels speed up the work and make it more accurate. Unlike laser levels that require manual leveling, self-leveling DIY laser levels use an internal pendulum to level the laser emitters automatically. If you set the device so it’s close to level, the self-leveling feature takes over to quickly establish level with greater precision. Many pro-grade self-leveling lasers use an even more accurate electronic system for self-leveling.
Laser Distance
Match the effective range of a laser level to the work you’re doing. You can find models with effective ranges starting at 15 feet and going up to 1000 feet and more:
- Laser levels with 15- to 50-foot ranges work for smaller indoor DIY projects.
- Laser levels with 50- to 100-foot ranges are suitable for indoor projects and smaller outdoor projects.
- Laser levels with ranges of 100 feet and greater are for large-scale outdoor work.
Levels with longer ranges are typically larger and might have cases, handles and tripods to make them easier to carry and use accurately.
Green vs. Red Laser Beams
Laser levels emit either a green or red beam of light. A laser level with a green beam is often more expensive but the green beam is sharper and easier to see in a bright interior or in an outdoor space. A green laser beam is also visible over greater distances. A laser level with a red beam is often a more affordable option and offers enough visibility for most indoor DIY work.
Pro-grade laser level kits often include add-ons, but you can also purchase laser level accessories like tripods, laser receivers and visibility-enhancing glasses that make these advanced tools more useful.
Key Takeaways for Choosing a Laser Level
Add a laser level to your tool kit and simplify your projects with a quick, accurate tool for judging level, plumb, square and alignment. Keep these key points in mind as you shop:
- Line generator levels are best for DIY projects like hanging artwork and wallpaper or installing tile.
- Other laser levels are suited to lighting, electrical, plumbing, construction and landscaping jobs.
- Laser levels are available with ranges from 15 feet to 1000 feet or more.
- Green laser beams are more visible in bright conditions while levels with red beams can be less expensive.
Whether you need a basic device to align pictures in a stairway or a pro-grade rotary laser for a construction project, you can find the laser level you need at Lowe’s. Shop Lowes.com and browse laser levels by type, range, beam color and price range. Or stop by your local Lowe’s to see your laser level options and talk to a Lowe’s Red Vest associate about your projects. They’ll help you find a laser level that makes the work easier and creates the best.
Frequently Asked Laser Level Questions
The answers to some common questions about laser levels can help you choose the best one for your work.
Is a Laser Level Worth Buying?
If you’re planning any projects where level (straight side to side), plumb (straight up and down) or precise alignment is key to good results, a laser level is a great addition to your tool set. These tools are easy to use and make it easy to improve the precision of your work.
What’s the Best Laser Level for Home Use?
A line generator level is usually the best laser level for home projects. This type of laser level is typically the most affordable and makes it easy to get great-looking results from common projects like creating a gallery wall, applying wallpaper and installing wall or floor tile.
Which Is Better, a Green or Red Laser Level?
A green laser level beam is sharper, easier to see in bright light and has a greater range than a red beam. However, a laser level that uses a red beam is typically less expensive and is a good option for most indoor DIY projects.