Laser Level Reviews and Buying Guide:

The basic laser levels project a narrow horizontal beam and some are able to do vertical beams. Hanging pins let you stick the level to the wall for hands-free convenience and self leveling models are the easiest to use (work best when mounted to a tripod). Rotating laser levels are great for lining up electrical outlets throughout a room or installing dropped ceilings. A rotary laser level is able to rotate 360 degrees and can mark level on all surrounding walls. Laser levels with a magnetic base are great when you need to attach the level to metal surfaces. An Out-of-Level Sensor feature will guarantee that the lines stay level while you are working. The cheaper laser levels are $35 to $50 while the ones with additional features range from $100 to $300. The more expensive models definitely have brighter and much sharper beams of light while the low end models had complaints for practically "invisible" beams in rooms that receive lots of light. Also, the lower priced laser levels showed problems when they came across small bumps on walls. For the most accurate laser levels, experts say go with the self-leveling types. Consumer Reports magazine says that most people should stick with the basic levels unless you are constantly doing in home projects like "hanging new wallpaper, installing cabinets, or putting up paneling". Most laser levels are accurate up to 1/4 of an inch at 100 feet. We found several online articles on laser levels in which the testers rated the levels on beam visibility (both inside and outside), vibration dampening, accuracy, adjustments, and controls. The Toolsofthetrade.com laser level test was a bit outdated (June 2001) although it was very thoroughly done with 9 different makes and models. Popular Mechanics ran an article on Black & Decker laser levels in August 2004 but it didn't compare them to the competition. An article on Ebuild.com (September 2005) gave reviews on the Trimble Spectra, the Stanley FatMax 5-Beam, Johnson Level & Tool, and on the Pro Shot L5. The forums on Gardenweb and Landscapingcomplete.com offered expert insight into laser levels by actual contractors and professionals. We also read recent reviews posted on Amazon.com and Epinions. Our list below outlines the best laser levels in various categories. If you are ready to buy online, we recommend Amazon.com. We are always impressed by their competitive prices (often the lowest), fast shipping, and customer service -- plus almost everyone already shops with them and trusts them. You can browse their up-to-date list of best-selling line lasers and rotary lasers here.

Best Home Laser Level:

Rotary Laser Level: The Robotoolz RT-3620-2K Rotational Laser ($400) is a top rated, versatile rotary laser level. Plumb, level, and square beams with the Robotoolz laser level. It features dot pointing, two adjustable line lengths and 3 speed spin modes so you can change the beam length and brightness. Up to 1/4" accuracy at 100 feet for plumb and level applications. It includes the Laser Detector which enables detection of the laser beam up to 600' (diameter). The RT-3620-2K is dust, dirt and water-resistant so it's durable and reliable in any work environment. The laser is recommended for laying tile and flooring, plumbing applications like laying pipe, sewer lines, or drainage lines, setting forms and footings with concrete, and it works great leveling and setting countertops or cabinets, installing trim, plumbing decks, or leveling electrical outlets.

Self-Leveling Laser Level: