Best Overall
Stabila Pro Set 80 AS Spirit Levels With Case
Best Bang For The Buck
Craftsman CMHT82347 48-Inch Box Beam Level
Best Torpedo Level
Johnson Level & Tool Magnetic Glow View Torpedo Level
We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs . Learn More ›
In almost any habitation renovation , achieve the best result requires a level . It ’s one of thoseindispensable toolsthat easily proceed unnoted . A building level point when a open is perfectly level with the land , and it can help oneself the user find the right slope . Whether you ’re put in console or determining the side of a patio , have the good level on script is key to a successful project . In our lookup for the best , we examine 9 different level on a variety of projects , from hanging pictures to building a deck .
Our all - around favorite was theStabila Pro Set , mainly because it included the most wide used box spirit level sizes . The levels in this set are well build up and easy to read with perfect truth . But a collection of levels might not be right for every buyer , and this outfit does not perform some democratic specialty functions . That ’s why our roundup also includes a digital level , laser levels , a strand grade , and more .
On just about any DIY build or repair — lay a deck of cards , cut back table peg , hanging picture , or paint banding on an accent bulwark — start up with a degree extension is the only mode to attain consistent and accurate results . There ’s a arrant prick for each of these scenarios , and this guidebook will help you choose from among the unspoiled levels for your next project .
Our Top Picks
Levels number in a pile of varieties , and we ’ve tested most of them . From dependable box levels to digital and laser types , there ’s a level for your project . Here are our top picks for the best level .
Our evaluation : Ease of Use5/5;Design5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value5/5
If you ’re just starting to work up a tool collection , a in force hardening of stratum tools is an investing that can last a lifetime . The sprightliness levels in the Stabila Pro Set feature pulverization - coated Al box frame construction for lightweight durability and watch glass clear vials for outstanding visibility . This kit admit the three most pop level duration : 48 - inch , 24 - in , and 12 - inch stage , in a padded carry type for added protection .
For accurate mark , the Stabila levels include slip - resistant rubber end caps . In our tests , when we place them against a surface , they stayed put , making it much easier to scribe an accurate level line . And unlike gimcrack levels , the vials were enclosed in clean-cut protective blocks that downplay the probability of inadvertent breakage .
The central vial window are astray opened on the top edge and gentle to see . Some users favour “ bridged ” windows that have the level body intact along the edges with an ellipse cutout to see the vial below . But we found that this full cutout blueprint bring home the bacon the absolute good profile . The 48- and 24 - inch levels in this kit are outfit with perpendicular ampule at each end . The 12 - inch carpentry grade has one horizontal and one perpendicular phial . This is an excellent general purpose kit .
What our quizzer says:“I like that this outfit include the three size that I always use . They feel more maneuverable than the other layer because the proportions were different . The two long levelers were narrow and lighter than mediocre , but the myopic one was lumpy and a flake longer than the torpedo level . ”—Mark Wolfe , mathematical product Reviews examiner and writer
Get the Stabila levels atAmazonorKC Tool .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use5/5;Design5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4.7/5
Craftsman is well known for offering some ofthe best toolsat a value terms point . When it come to a individual storey for all - around purposes , it ’s rugged to beat a 4 - footer , especially at this terms . This 48 - inch level from Craftsman has all of the feature needed from a quality story : a sturdy construction , easy - to - read vials , and a lightweight build . The built - in suitcase make it gentle to use while wearing gloves , as well as bid a handy elbow room to hang the level on a shop wall .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
The sturdy aluminum expression is rustproof in face the powder pelage chips , so there is no demand to worry about damage when clamping it to use as a proverb guide or straight sharpness . The fictile last caps also help to shorten shock should this floor ever descend . The tool will attend its purpose well for nearly any project , from hanging doors to frame or fetch up piece of work .
In our tests , the Craftsman storey withstand flexing under moderate pressure sensation . It was well-heeled to channelise in gloved hands ( although the plastic grip liners seemed a bit flimsy ) , and well-heeled to translate from different angles . The bridged pith vial window offered the honest of both worlds : an promiscuous top view as well as a full - length full-strength border . As one might expect from this stain , it ’s upright quality for a value price .
Get the Craftsman degree atAmazonorLowe ’s .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
Upgrade Pick
Pocket - size of it sub degree come in ready to hand for projects like hang graphics and installing plumbing . This one from Johnson bring with it several features that lean into versatility . It have a heavy - duty aluminium material body with a composite insert for durability . The top border is groove to fit snugly against a pipe or conduit and includes a top - learn window . The flat bottom edge include three powerful rare earth magnets for handwriting - off reference . A trio of easy - to - read ampoule cater level , plumb , and 45 - grade readings . And each vial is adjoin by a radiate - in - the - dark surround to better visibility in crawl spaces , attics , and other low - lighter project areas .
This level offer everything we were looking for in a torpedo spirit level . The frame feel sturdy but not too laborious to hold in a pocket , and the vial were easy to read , even in modest calorie-free conditions , with the occasional exception of the top - take window . The narrow-minded dimensions of the window only allowed a qualified view , but the thickset size of it fit nicely in a toolbox , and the orange composite insert made it well-off to see if we mislay it somewhere . The magnetic edge was passing strong for the sizing , so when we stuck it to a piping , it stayed put .
Get the Johnson level atAmazon , Lowe ’s , orBlain ’s Farm & Fleet .
Photo: Amazon
Best Digital
Empire 24-Inch Magnetic Digital Box Level
house of cards levels indicate , with good truth , when a airfoil is point or plumb , but some projects require a slope . The Empire Magnetic Digital Box Level is our favorite all - in - one result for leveling and happen slopes . It get equipped with two spirit level vial for measuring level and plumb , as well as a pre - calibrated digital level for precise slope reading . For hired man - costless convenience , warm magnets are embedded in one border , and an audible indicant lets you know if you ’re humble , high , or right on . The kit we sampled also include a manual torpedo level , a 7 - inch rafter square , and a zippered carry typeface .
This carpenter grade was thoughtfully designed and well built . We found it easy to read the two vials with typical use . The horizontal one is set into a full cutout on the top bound for quick character reference from the front , back , or top edge , and the vertical one is seeable from the front and back . The two digital displays , on the front and top edge , featured a hopeful backlight function that made them easy to scan in low twinkle . The audio function , which we were capable to turn off / on independently from the digital display , produced different tones , depend on which end of the degree was too high . For plumbing and other work in tight spaces , we also like that the digital display automatically invert when we flip the degree over with the bottom / magnetic edge to the top .
What our examiner says:“The Empire digital level was a huge difference - maker for projects that require a drain slope , like install pavers . The audio indicant made find the “ thoroughgoing ” level easier than using a house of cards level . And for slope readings , I liked that I was able to take from degrees , percentages , inches per animal foot , or millimetre per cadence exhibit . ”—Mark Wolfe , Product Reviews tester and writer
Photo: Amazon
Get the Empire digital level atThe Home Depot .
Best Line Level
Empire Line 3-Piece Levels Set
Our Ratings : Ease of Use4/5;Design5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value5/5
Line levels are a popular solution for landscaping , masonry , and bathymetry projects because they are affordable , wanton to use , and provide an precise reading over long distance than other types of levels . This set from Empire include two line grade and a 100 - foot bobbin of easy - to - see amber - colored mason ’s line made of twisted nylon . The lightweight plastic phial help belittle sag , and the undetermined hooks on the levels slide freely along the line . The ( white ) Vari - Pitch vial reads from stage to ½-inch sales talk in ⅛-inch increments .
This outfit provide a pure example of what to expect from line levels , along with the frail spot of this organisation . When the business was pull tight between firmly planted stakes , we got accurate readings that allowed us to utilize the line as a dependable consultation . The levels jog on well , slid smoothly along the line , and provided a quick , exact reading . But any upset to the bet chance disruption to the task . Accidentally kicking a stake or snag the string with a prick would either cause the string to sag or move it out of level , either of which mean that we had to recalibrate the apparatus before keep . Nonetheless , it ’s much cheaper than a laser story , may be easier to understand in certain light conditions , and can be just as effective .
Photo: Amazon
Get the Empire business line level atThe Home Depot .
Best Post Level
Swanson Tool Co. Magnetic Post Level
Our evaluation : Ease of Use5/5;Design5/5 ; Durability4/5 ; Value4.7/5
Installing fence spot by rights can be challenging , but a just post level can aid . The Swanson Tool Co. ’s magnetic post storey wraps around a post turning point to measure plumb on contiguous sides at the same time , ca-ca it easy to instal the Wiley Post with preciseness . For hands - free relief of exercise , the post stage comes equip with attractive feature and an flexible strap that can hold it against the post , or a tobacco pipe , as you form .
We used the Swanson Tool Co post degree on circular and square post and pipes , including blade , wood , and PVC . The innovation worked well overall , but we noticed that the magnets once in a while slide when the office was jar . The only other concern was that our pile of wooden fence billet included a few that were more or less curve from warping . Had we want to utilise any of those , then this level would not have been exact .
Photo: The Home Depot
The elastic shoulder strap that number with the level act upon fairly well with 4×4 berth , but smaller diameters were not as well secured . It also seemed as though it could wear out in a short time . The good news is that it ’s sluttish to substitute with a heavy - tariff synthetic rubber ring if needed .
Get the Swanson Tool Co. level atAmazonorWalmart .
Best Laser Level
DeWalt DW089K 3-Beam Line Laser Level
Our Ratings : Ease of Use4/5;Design5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4.7/5
When you need plumb and level reference lines over a long distance , a laser level is the tool for the job . This line laser level from DeWalt projection three self - tear down red ray ( one horizontal line and two vertical dual - beam lasers ) for level and liner up almost any task . It ’s accurate to within ⅛ in at 30 foot , and it also has a micro - adjust pommel on the top that allows the user to dial in the beam ’s unadulterated alliance .
Ofall the optical maser level we test , the DeWalt laser spirit level prove to be one of the easiest to set up and use . It sport a magnetic back as well as a beam clamp for bind to angle irons , although most of our test involved coiffure it on a two-dimensional airfoil . The red laser was very bright and sluttish to see . The factor that pushed the DeWalt adjustable level to the top of the heap was its robust design . It ’s not the largest of this kind , but it is one of the heaviest and sturdiest , and the drop test left it largely unharmed . The only thing it really ca n’t do is externalize a 360 - degree beam .
The Home Depot
Get the DeWalt level atAmazonorToolUp .
Best Compact Laser
Bosch GLL3-330CG Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser Level
Shoppers who are looking for a level that can do it all and do n’t bear in mind spending quite a mo more may want to consider the Bosch GLL3 - 330CG . This self - leveling framework has a 360 - degree horizontal plane laser and two 360 - degree vertical plane optical maser , cater a level line of quotation for any job . The unripe laser has a working range of up to a 200 - foot diameter , though this can be extend to 330 understructure with the freestanding purchase of anLR8 receiver .
Some of the GLL3 - 330CG ’s insurance premium feature are so subtle that they can really go unnoticed . For example , this optical maser point monitors its battery life and adjusts the beam for optimum visibility . Its CAL Guard feature utilizes internal sensors to find drops , high-pitched warmth , and other faults that could agitate the building block ’s calibration . The social unit takes tutelage of itself and lets the substance abuser know when it ’s time to correct something .
The Bosch optical maser layer demonstrate to be a serious piece of machinery during testing . It is highly exact , with a maximum deviation of just 3/32 of an in at 30 fundament . The three 360 - degree airplane were wanton for us to see and expend .
Photo: Amazon
After we dropped the GLL3 - 330CG three time , it registered a standardization fault that postulate log into the app to clear . This was more of a welfare than an issue as it was easy to solve and did warn of the shocks . Another affair we liked about this level is that it can be power by different types of electric battery sources , include the included rechargeable lithium - ion shelling or four AA alkaline battery . The only drawback ? While it is pro - quality and very precise , it ’s a scrap pricey .
Get the Bosch level atAmazonorLowe ’s .
Best Rotary Laser Level
Topcon RL-H5A Self-Leveling Construction Laser
Our Ratings : Ease of Use4.8/5;Design5/5 ; Durability5/5 ; Value4.8/5
Professionals userotary optical maser levelsfor construction jobs that implicate globe move . Boasting an IP66 rubble and water tribute rating , the Topcon RL - H5A self - leveling optical maser is built for the rough environment of a construction site . We quiz this laser level tool indoors and alfresco , and it excelled in all our test .
This example mechanically self - levels . To begin our testing , we set up the level and turn it on . It take a few second for the internal chemical mechanism to determine the on-key level , and then the red beam started circumvolve . In indoor test , we were able-bodied to see the beam easy on the wall , but crimson balance beam are nearly inconspicuous out-of-doors , so we had to rely on the sensing element to pick up the beam — something it did very well . The sensor fits on a grade rod and emits dissimilar pitch beeps that indicate if you require to slide it up or down or are unwavering with the beam .
Photo: Amazon
The Topcon rotary converter laser is a eminent - precision instrument . It is accurate to within 1/16 inch at 100 feet and has an impressive orbit of 2,600 feet in a full-strength short letter ( 1,300 pes wheel spoke ) , making it ideal for ground grading projects . This good example also has a manual gradient feature of speech that allowed us to check the gradation of our G for the recommend gradient . It does n’t account incline , so we had to do the math and adjust the receiver stature on the perch to fit . Then , the Topcon RL - H5A detected the receiver to create a perfect 2 per centum slope .
Unfortunately , this model does not admit a tripod or grade pole , so we had to take up from other models we tested . It runs on four D barrage , but Topcon sells a rechargeable battery pack as well . The best employment for this laser rotating level is for determining the perfect horizontal level , but you could also utilise it to bourgeon a slanted grade .
interpret our full review : Topcon RL - H5A Self - Leveling Construction Laser
Photo: Amazon
Get the Topcon layer atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Levels
This guide showcases the most common types of level used in construction , remodeling , landscaping , and other DIY project . Some , like box level and torpedo levels , are very broadly useful , while others like post levels and orbitual laser levels have more specific applications . We considered more than 30 modeling before selecting this chemical group for examination .
We wanted to test each character in a realistic room that would reflect distinctive usance . We also aimed to avoid perplexing comparisons between unrelated types . We used the spirit level on genuine project in the ways that they were intended to be used and evaluated them independently . We awarded the “ best of ” titles by moot relaxation of use equate to similar type , practicality and effectuality of design , durability of construction , and overall time value .
What to Consider When Choosing a Level
While all layer basically do the same caper , the various way they do it can affect their suitability for particular project . While most are adequate to of adapt to a salmagundi of job , many professional and keen DIYers will have at least two different model for maximal truth in specific situations . In the following part , we face at the type of grade usable and their key features .
Types of Levels
The most vulgar case of layer is the manual spirit level : it get its name because the liquid inside is normally mineral spirits , not water . It ’s also called a bubble level for obvious cause , as the location of the house of cards between two road map indicates the stage plane . More recent first appearance are the digital layer and laser grade . Not breed in this article are optical horizontal surface ( generally used for surveying ) and water level , which are often homemade machine used when a spirit degree is n’t long enough .
The modernistic manual spirit level has been around for more than 360 eld , and in that time , it has changed very minuscule . A small air bubble trapped inside a vial fill with mineral flavor indicates level ( or plumb bob ) when it is in the middle of the vial . The act of vials on a floor can vary between two and four , though most have three . These are for level , plumb , and 45 degrees . A rotating vial for multiple angles is occasionally included .
Box - ray of light levels are a type of spirit point that is broadly speaking orthogonal in shape . I - shaft levels are similarbut lighter , using flanges along the horizontal top and bottom instead of the full - duration grammatical construction of a loge level .
Photo: Amazon
The diminished manual level are called Italian sandwich level because of their shape , which angle in slimly at the oddment . These can be as belittled as 6 inches long . magnanimous model are usually called a carpenter ’s or declarer ’s degree , and these can be anywhere from 24 to 96 inches long .
A phone number of manual levels offer digital displays . These may be provided in junction with traditional ampul , or the vial may be omitted . The main reward of these equipment is that the showing is loose to understand , particularly in pitiable lighting . They can also provide reading for unlike angles thanks to a built - in inclinometer . Some will deliver an audible alert when a particular angle is reached .
Dedicated digital levels are more thickset than even hitman levels and are particularly useful in cramped spaces . They might admit several preprogrammed feature like vulgar pitching angles , and they may be capable to indicate an X and Y axis of rotation at the same metre . Some have rotating displays for record easily in unlike positions . Most we witness do not measure distance , so a separatedigital tape measurewould be necessary if that social occasion is required .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
A laser level differs from other form of level in that it does n’t measure or indicate a level or plumb state , but or else projects a optical maser beam to mold along . The ray can be horizontal , perpendicular , or both . As a termination , a laser point is well used for the initial layout , not for checking employment in progression . Some also incorporate astud finder .
In the right conditions , a laser can channel 50 foot or more . However , using optical maser storey can try a battle in bright sunlight . Special glasses may be provided to improve visibleness , and a laser target may also be used .
Accuracy
Accuracy is obviously a central government issue . Many spirit level are quote as accurate to 0.0005 inch or 0.029 level , which sound telling , but in genuine terms , preciseness reckon on how carefully the drug user checks the position of the bubble within the ampoule and see that the detail being checked ( as well as the story itself ) are steady . loosely speaking , it ’s good to use the longest stage possible because they record smaller pas seul . However , this is n’t always practical , hence the variety of sizes available .
In most situation , a traditional spirit grade is more than tolerable , but when used correctly , digital levels provide a more precise readout . There ’s also lilliputian probability of error from the human constituent . Laser levels can image an almost absolutely level line over dozens of feet when accurate laying out is require , something even the long bubble level can not equalize .
Durability
Low - cost torpedo level are often made of plastic , which is sometimes impact - tolerant . Large models incline to be made of aluminum , which render a good balance between long suit and free weight . To maximise rigidness ( which is critical in a spirit spirit level ) , these either have an I - beam shape ( similar to many steel building girders ) or orthogonal box sections . The latter is often considered best but is more difficult to manufacture , so it is often more expensive . moldable or rubber end cap are often tote up to serve keep impairment to a level if cast , though they do n’t needfully forestall bending .
Digital and laser levels have complex electronics inside that can be prone to harm in rough work environment . in high spirits - quality devices are essay to the international ingress protection ( IP ) standard that gives a rating for debris and H2O protection . They may also have a drop - psychometric test rating that gives the top of a fall the tool should be expected to go .
Other Features
attractor are common to all type of levels . Users can then affix the level to any ferrous alloy object , thus freeing their hands . Ferrous materials are those that contain Fe , such as steel . Magnets do n’t make on non - ferrous metals like brass , copper , or aluminum .
A V - groove is also usually include along one or more sharpness of a tier . This makes it easier to keep the level steady on organ pipe and conduit .
On some traditional levels , the centre of attention house of cards has two sets of lines . The middle two point level , and the outer unity indicate an in - line tier component of 2 or 4 degrees , which is commonly used when laying gutter or drainage tobacco pipe .
Photo: Debbie Wolfe for Bob Vila
FAQs
With so many stratum to choose from , there may still be lurk uncertainty . Below are answers to some of the most common question .
Check the level ’s truth by placing it on a flat surface . Make two marks on the surface to cite the exact attitude : one at the end and one at the center point along the side . Read the vial . turn out the level 180 degrees end - to - end , using the reference Saint Mark to align it . The house of cards should be in the same position as the first reading .
A 24 - column inch grade is good for oecumenical indoor projection . A 48 - in level provides a longer reference for great outside labor . pocket-sized torpedo levels are easier to work with in cramped space , as in plumbing and electrical work .
For oecumenical home use , aluminum , Ellen Price Wood , or composite level can ply excellent results . Mason often use wood levels because they are not easy dent when thumped with the hind end of a trowel and because mortar does n’t stick to Grant Wood . Another advantage is that wood does n’t become red-hot or cold to the touch like aluminum and other metals . But for recollective - full term function , wood levels do require more care and care than metallic element or complex .
Meet the Testers
Tom Scalisi is a free lance writer specializing in the home base design , construction , shaft , and automotive industry . As a lover of all things tools , construction , and DIY , he ’s always looking for Modern tool and techniques while also sharing his knowledge with the DIY Earth .
Glenda Taylor is a product tester and author specializing in the mental synthesis , remodeling , and material estate of the realm industries . She and her hubby own a cosmopolitan contracting company , and Taylor is have in both residential and commercial construction practical program .
Mark Wolfe is a product tester and author who spend many days in the nursery and landscape gardening industriousness . He kept his tool box well stocked in gild to build or remediate fencing , bulwark , irrigation systems , and equipment on any pass on day . Now he try and publish reviews about the modish mitt tools , lawn tending intersection , outdoor magnate equipment , and other outdoor living goods .
This Is the Year for a Kitchen Renovation
Whether you ’re selling or staying , everyone can get something out of a kitchen update . acquire why we consider this overhaul the Most Valuable Project of 2025 and how to bide on budget .
