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When it comes to finding the perfect rotary laser level, it doesn’t matter if you are an experienced builder or just someone who is looking to improve their homes, a rotary laser level will eliminate a lot of time and effort for different projects. The best part is that these do not cost that much money.
They can help you to reduce the number of people that you need to get the job done. They can also help you to ensure that you are able to get the most for your money with any project. They are perfect for helping to create level foundations, measuring the slope of different projects, setting ills and walls or even doorways, and hanging wall art.
You do not have to be experienced to use a rotary laser level. Even the most inexperienced user will be able to have success. This is one tool that basically helps to provide a 360-degree laser light that is powerful enough to help level all of your projects.
Of course, before you can choose the right one, you will need to know what the pros and cons of different models are and which one is recommended for your work.
What to Look for in a Rotary Laser Level
Most people who have owned a home or even rented have used a level at least once in their lifetime. It does not require you to be a contractor to need to hang something up or find out if a surface is a level or not. The most common type of level is the traditional split level.
The way that this works is by setting up the level on a surface and adjusting it between the lines so that you know the surface is level. This is the most basic type of level and it has been used for hundreds of years. However, if you have ever seen a home built, it is likely that you have realized that this is not the type of level that they are using.
Have you ever wondered how they are able to build something that is so level and so accurate? Well, do not worry, they are simply using a rotary laser level and for a small investment, you can have your own.
You will never have to do work again with a level that requires you to be able to mark lines or have someone else there to help. You will be able to get jobs done quickly and accurately on your own.
The best part is that there is no need for a steady hand or even a spare hand when you are using this useful and helpful tool. However, if you have not shopped for a rotary laser level before, then there are some things that you are going to want to know more about.
Features to Look for in a Rotary Laser Level
There are so many features that you should look at when determining which rotary laser level is going to work best for your needs. The most important features are a self-leveling, range, accuracy, rotation speed, and durability.
In addition to these most important features, there are some additional features that you might want to consider these include: the color, rechargeable batteries, adjustable rotation angle, and mounting accessories.
The Importance of the Self-Leveling Feature
There are two main components that allow a rotary laser to be able to self-level. These are a transmitter and a receiver. The transmitter is typically mounted or able to be mounted on a tripod. This part of the rotary laser level actually has a spinning diode that emits a laser beam.
The second part of the rotary laser level is the receiver. The receiver is typically mounted on a large ruler that is called a grade or transit. It is a rod that will help to detect the laser and will indicate whether it is level to the beam, higher than the beam, or lower than the beam.
If you have a self-leveling rotary laser level, the level will actually be able to level itself without you having to use a bubble level to get it into place. The higher end rotary levels are going to actually self-level within four or five degrees.
This is an option and all rotary laser levels do not have a self-leveling feature but it is one option that we would highly recommend in any rotary laser level that you choose.
Knowing What Range to Expect
One of the things that you have to consider when looking at the range is that the greater the range, the greater the price is going to be for the rotary laser level. The majority of these levels have a range that is between one thousand and two thousand feet.
This is typically large enough for most but if you are going to be doing big jobs, you might want something that is larger in range. Of course, if you are going to get something with a larger range, you are going to want something that is more accurate, so in a way accuracy and range go hand in hand.
So, if you are going to be shooting elevations at points that are far away you want a level that has a high degree of accuracy and a longer range.
Understanding What Accuracy Means
The way that accuracy is measured when looking at rotary laser levels is basically by measuring the distance at thirty feet and a further measurement like one hundred feet. The better the accuracy or the tighter that the accuracy is, the more expensive that this is going to be.
The lower end models are going to have an accuracy of around ? of an inch, but the ones that are higher in quality will have a higher accuracy like 1/16 of-of an inch.
Information About Rotation Speed
One of the things that you need to know about when looking at rotary laser levels is the rotation speed. If you are going to be using the level indoors then you need to decide which rotation speed is what you need.
Some people do not understand the variable speed since it would seem like a laser would always be spinning enough to detect a variety of points. The higher the speeds, the more easily the laser can be detected, but the slower the speeds, the more likely the laser will be visible.
Keep in mind that you are not going to always be able to see the laser. In fact, when you are outside, it is rare that you will have conditions where the laser will be visible. The receiver is in place for that. If you are indoors, you will want to be able to see the laser so visibility is more important as you are not likely going to use the receiver.
Look for a Durable Option
We all know that when you are working on your home, or if you are a contractor, that the work that you are doing is going to be something that is hard. These types of jobs are tough. There are numerous situations that could happen that would cause tools and equipment to be broken.
The harsher the worksite is, the more that you want to ensure the durability of your rotary laser level. One thing to consider is to ensure that the level is waterproof when the work is going to be outdoors. The spinning diode of the rotary laser level’s transmitter is very delicate.
This is something that is important to keep it protected from danger. The best thing to consider is a laser that has special handles and/or arms and rubber bumpers that work for shock absorption. Of course, to keep your level working properly be sure to take it in one time per year to a service center for maintenance.
Does the Laser Color Really Matter?
There are a couple of different laser colors that you can find on rotary laser levels. The most common was the red beam. This was the actual beam that likely would have been the only option a few years ago. In addition to the red, another option is the green laser.
This has been a new laser that has additional features and offers some benefits that you might not realize. One of the biggest advantages is that the green laser is going to be easier on the eyes. In fact, it is more visible as well.
Since you can see them more easily, the green laser is going to make it easier when you are using the laser indoors. It also makes it easier to actually see the laser outdoors, although most of the time you will still not be able to see it.
Of course, it is not magic and if you are more than a hundred yards away it will still be hard to see when you are outdoors. However, there are some additional things that green lasers cannot do that red lasers do better.
The first is that green lasers do not work in the coldest temperatures, but red lasers do. In addition, it is more expensive to purchase green lasers than red lasers. Plus, the green lasers usually require more energy which means that you will have to use new batteries or charge your batteries more often.
So, if you are going to be working outside in all temperatures, red is going to be the best choice. However, if you are going to be working mostly indoors and only occasionally outdoors then the green laser is probably going to be preferred.
Rechargeable Battery Expectations
The first thing that you should know when you are choosing a rotary laser level is that the features are the biggest difference that you can make. The thing is that there are some options that do not have rechargeable batteries.
However, it is likely that you are going to want rechargeable batteries if you are going to be using the rotary laser level on a regular basis. However, the thing is that you can also find levels that have power cords and different adapter options. Really take into affect what you are going to spend on maintaining the battery for your rotary laser level and decide which is going to work best for you.
Goals for Adjustable Rotational Level
It does not matter if you are going to be using the laser both outdoors and indoors you will need to know what you can get out of your level’s rotation. The rotational angle can actually help to keep the laser on the target more frequently when you limit it.
So once you have found where you are going to work, you will want to keep the laser limited in its rotational level. There are typically between one and three different angle options. This is something that you will use frequently.
Understanding the Mounting Accessories
There are two different ways that most professionals use their rotary laser levels:
- On a tripod
- Freestanding
Mounting accessories help to make life easier. There are many different types of ways that a tripod can be used. They are going to help keep the laser level more stable. There are two ways that a laser level can be used with a tripod. You will either have to mount it with a clamp feature or it will be magnetic.
Some Final Notes When Looking for a Rotary Laser Level
Choosing a laser level can be time-consuming. You might still be unsure of what you want or what you are going to need when you are going to be working with a laser level. You will be able to find a rotary laser level that you are going to enjoy.
So, to start out you will want to choose your range first, then your accuracy, and finally the durability that you need. Once you have found these three things to suit your desires, you can pinpoint the perfect rotary laser level by checking out the additional features and deciding what you want.
Keep in mind that you will probably want a level that is self-leveling. You also want an adjustable rotation speed if you are indoors working. Next, you are going to want to consider green lasers if you are mainly going to be working indoors. If you would be outdoors, you have to consider different conditions to decide if you would like green lasers or red lasers.
Of course, the rest of the features that we told you about is important, but this where you get your wiggle room in the budget to decide what is right for you. By looking for something like a rechargeable battery, you could cut off viable options.
Remember that you can always purchase any type of battery in a rechargeable form on your own. Finally, remember that you will want to look at the accessories and find the style that you want.
A Look at the Top 4 Rotary Laser Levels that We Found
Topcon RL-H5 Series Self-Leveling Rotary Slope Laser
When you purchase the Topcon RL-H5 Series Self Leveling Rotary Slope Laser you will be investing a bit more than you would on other rotary levels. However, this is one of the best choices on the market. When you start to look at the specifications, you will begin to understand just how great of a level this product really is.
One of the things that makes this level so great is the full five-year warranty that you have. Another is that the battery actually lasts around one hundred hours, so you are never going to run out of battery while working on a project.
The Topcon RL-H4C has a horizontal self-leveling feature that is electronic which means that you do not have to get the machine level. In addition, there is a height of adjustment alert feature and matching slope capabilities.
In addition to these features, it has a nice LCD display where you can clearly get the information that you need and a low battery indicator that is alarmingly accurate. While it is a little more expensive than some of the other lasers that we will recommend, it really is a great tool and one that shows that sometimes, you get what you pay for.
One of the things that made this laser level a top contender for us is that it has a very easy manual slope calibration. You basically push a button and the laser will change its slope in the direction that you desire.
When it is on the correct slope, the tool actually alerts you. Another thing that makes this tool great is that it is very durable. It has an anti-drift system that uses three LED lights to alert you if the level is knocked off balance while it is rotating.
This is really nice because you never have to worry about the level getting off while you are working and you not noticing it. The unit is powered by the use of four D-cell batteries for around one hundred hours of battery life.
Of course, if you do not like using disposable batteries, you can use rechargeable ones or you can even use an AC/DC converter. The level offers accuracy that is within 1/16 of an inch. It can self-level within 5 degrees at a nice range that is up to two thousand and six hundred feet. The speed rotation is 600 rpm.
Pros
- Complete set up that offers slope capability.
- Self-leveling long-range laser level with packages available to make your work easier.
- Packages come with the tripod and grade iron, which you will want to purchase if you do not already have one.
- 2600 feet working range.
- This product has a full five-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Cons
- The cost is around $900.
- Not available in all markets, so you might have to order online and wait for it to arrive.
- You need accessories to use for most projects which require you to purchase a kit or add items to it.
Bosch Self-Leveling Rotary Laser with Laser Receiver GRL 245HVCK (Discontinued)
Bosch is a trusted brand for tools and the GRL 245 HVCK Rotary Laser is just another one of their great tools that you should check out. This one is accurate to within 3/32 of an inch. It has a dual laser system that is patented.
This system uses horizontal lasers that work both together and individually. It is a perfect laser level for both outdoor and indoor projects. The range of accuracy is one thousand three hundred feet. It offers three different speed RPM settings too. This makes it nice for being able to get the laser to perform exactly as you desire.
In addition, it features a smart pendulum leveling system which senses and indicates when things are out of level. The unit has a lock as well and the system will indicate when the lock is turned on and off. It has a motorized plumb alignment which allows for the right beam and the left beam adjustments without there being the relocation of the unit.
In addition, the tool has an enclosed cage that offers protection making it durable and able to withstand things that are happening when you are working. You can also choose a variety of applications and light settings.
Plus there is a remote control that has a five hundred foot range. The battery life is nice with forty hours. It has a two-year warranty that is included as well. For once, you will have a level that allows you to work smarter not harder.
Pros
- Sturdy design that comes from a brand that you can trust. You know that this level is going to last.
- The level features a 500-foot range of remote control.
- There are 40 hours of battery life.
- It comes to 3/32 of an inch accuracy.
- The level has a 1300 foot range.
Cons
- The unit costs almost $500
- The battery life is only 40 hours which is quite a bit lower than others.
- The unit is larger in size and can be harder to maneuver or use.
Dewalt DW089LG 12V Max 3 x 360 Line Laser, Green
The Dewalt DW089LG is cordless and a laser detector that comes with a remote control that is wireless. In addition, there is one thousand and five hundred foot range. The battery will last thirty hours. While the battery is not the best, it does have a charger that is able to charge the battery in about an hour.
This means that you will not ever have to go without your charger for too long. This level is accurate within five degrees. There are three different rpm rotation speeds that move at speeds of 60 rpm, 250 RPMs, and 600 RPMs.
One thing that is great and unique with Dewalt is that they have a three-year limited warranty. This warranty includes a one year time period that allows you to have free service for the year. This machine is also self-leveling. It has both a horizontal and vertical laser which includes a digital laser detector.
Plus there is an out-of-level shut off mode, this is really nice because if your level is no longer level then you are going to find that it actually shuts itself off. There are so many great features that allow you to make sure that it is accurate. It also has a quick set up time and it helps to eliminate errors.
There is a weatherproof design that helps to ensure that it is durable regardless of the conditions when you are working. Plus, you will find that it is really a great product to help you to find what you are looking for.
The 12V MAX* Green 3x360 Self Leveling Laser Level features 12V MAX* Lithium-ion battery and green beam laser technology. This DEWALT laser level green line is debris and water resistant with an IP65 rating and with an over-molded housing, it can withstand harsh conditions found on the worksite.
Pros
- The laser features three different 360-degree line lasers that allow for full room layouts.
- It has an integrated magnetic bracket that allows for the flush attachment to metal tracks and steel. This is suitable for indoor visibility of up to 100 feet and has a working range of up to 165 feet.
- The unit has special systems that shut off when it is not level.
Cons
- The level costs almost $500.
- It is not available everywhere.
- The warranty is not a full warranty after the first year.
CST Berger RL25HCK
One of the things that you are going to love about this level is the accuracy. It has the most accurate readings that offer you measurements within 3/32 of an inch. The kit is available for an affordable price when you look at everything that it can offer you.
The favorite feature that we have found is that the unit self-levels within five degrees and has an amazing range of two thousand feet. There are three different rotation speeds as well which are 150 rpm, 300 rpm, or 600 rpm.
The battery life of the CST Berger RL25HCK is an impressive eighty-five hours. This means that you do not have to charge your battery all of the time. In addition to the impressive battery life, there is durable housing that will help to create additional protection.
This is one unit that is going to be able to withstand some wear and tear. The housing that is put on the unit is supposed to help with the unit falling a drop of 3 feet while performing in conditions that are harsh.
The CST Berger RL25HCK is another one of the levels on this list that has an alert if it should fall out of the level or height that it was set at. This is nice for a wide range of reasons but you never have to check to make sure that your level is in the right place.
The best part about this level for small businesses or for individuals is that it was meant to be used by one person. It has very high levels of accuracy and is very fast with its electronic self-leveling. This level has a system that is anti-drift and it uses a single axis slope control which allows you to measure the slope of a project with ease.
There is even an eight-foot leveling rod, three batteries, and a tripod included with the kit. This is sure to be able of the greatest tool purchases that you will make. The warranty is likely to never actually be needed.
CST/berger RL25HCK Exterior Self-Leveling Rotary Laser Complete Kit has a rugged design (with IP56 rating) to handle the extreme jobsite environment. 3/32-Inch Leveling Accuracy and Extended Range of 2000-Feet. Single Axis Slope Control- allows you to change the slope of the laser, making complex leveling applications a breeze.
How to Use a Rotary Laser Level
So now that you have your rotary laser level, you are going to have to figure out how to use it. The best thing that you will find is that this process is easy and it is something that you are fully capable of doing.
Step 1 — Get Your Level Set Up
Before you use your level, you will want to read the instruction manual that comes with it. Then you will want to read about the installation process. Once you have completed this step, look at your level. If your level has an accompanying laser detector this is called a receiver and is for use outdoors.
The easiest way to set up your level the first time is with a tripod. Make sure to look at what you are buying. While some rotary laser levels come with the use of a tripod, others do not. So you will want to know beforehand if you should purchase a separate tripod. You need to secure your level to the tripod.
Step 2 — Turning on the Level and the Self-Leveling Process
The best thing that you can do when you are purchasing your level, is to ensure that you have a level that is self-leveling. With an automatic level, there is no need to calibrate any of the measurements.
You will always be able to get the most accurate measurement and calibration when it is done through self-leveling than through any type of personal calibrations that you would do. However, if you are going to be calibrating it yourself, you want to make sure that you have the right standards so that you do not get the wrong measurements.
There are so many things that you can consider but the main one is that you want to read the manual to understand the full use of the device. When you are using the laser during the daylight, you want something that has a beep.
This is so that you can be informed when there is a connection with the laser. This is simply to help you when you cannot see the lasers during the day. If you are going to be using a receiver, you need to check it close to the laser and then move to your desired location.
Step 3 — Be Ready to Measure
The way that you start measuring is by directing the laser towards the wall or area that you want to ensure is level. The next thing that you will want to do is make sure to mark the areas where the laser is to ensure that your work is maintained. Continually check the laser if it does not have any type of notification when it is not level.
Final Thoughts
Rotary laser levels are a great item to have if you are a homeowner, rent an apartment, or if you are a contractor. These are the best ways that you will be able to ensure that things are done well and accurately the first time.
A rotary laser level is a tool that you need to get the most work done with your company. They are a tool that you will continue to want. By reading our guide, you should know what you are looking for when looking for a laser level.
These tips will help you to understand what you want from your laser level and what accessories and functions, you want for the level to have. Furthermore, we shared our top four picks for laser levels with you.
We chose to show you some that have the features that we prefer. Finally, we shared with you some tips for using your laser level for the first time. These are all great tools for you to consider and something that you are going to be able to use when you are working.
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