So that the construction does not go awry: TOP-5 laser levels

The inexpensive Bosch UniversalLevel 2 leveler, powered by conventional AA batteries, is a typical household class tool. With its help, it is convenient to carry out marking work in small rooms, such as rooms and offices (and for large objects it is practically useless, because the maximum beam projection range is only 10 m).

The device can project a "laser cross" (there is one vertical projection and one horizontal), as well as two points. The opening angle of 120 ° is quite enough to perform tasks related to laying tiles, installing ceilings or mounting brackets, because by installing the device at a distance of 1 metre from the wall, you can get a line up to 3.5 metres long. Thanks to the glass cover of the laser, the projected lines have good clarity. There is a tripod socket on the case (standard size ¼"), but the tripod itself is missing in the tool case.

Among the disadvantages, the mediocre accuracy of the tool should be noted. The beam scattering equal to 0.5 mm/m does not allow using this device for anything other than simple household tasks. But within the premises of a small area, such an error will not significantly affect the quality of work.

Among the relatively inexpensive "green" Bosch laser levelers, there are other versions of this model, slightly different in hardware or configuration. For example, the Bosch UniversalLevel 2 Set 0603663801 is sold immediately with a tripod, and the Bosch UniversalLevel 3 0603663900 has one additional vertical projection.

Among inexpensive laser levelers, the DEKO LL57GA stands out especially vividly. Despite the low price, it has a complete set — almost like the "adult" models. One of the most noticeable "chips" is the green colour of the beam. The green laser can be seen much better than the red one (especially in bright lighting conditions), but due to the high cost of green LEDs, they are not installed on all levels. The package also includes glasses that help you better see the markings on light surfaces. The tool case also has a power supply, because the level can work not only from batteries, but also from the mains.

Another feature of this device is numerous projections. The device can project four vertical lines at once (with a crosshair at the top) and one horizontal, as well as one vertical point. Extra lines can be disconnected. The range claimed by the manufacturer is 30 metres. However, users note that as the distance increases, the lines (which are already very thick in themselves) significantly "spread out" in breadth, so it is better to limit distances to 5-10 metres.

The level settings are adjusted quite simply and accurately. The cast metal housing is mounted on three legs with screws to adjust their height (there is a bubble level that helps to accurately set "zero"). The device can rotate 360 degrees around its axis. But due to assembly flaws and some "flimsiness" of the design (the right signs of an inexpensive tool), after any turn, you need to re-check the settings.

If you are serious about repairing a house and plan to do it yourself, then it is well worth buying a DEKO LL57GA. Such a choice will save you not only money, but also a lot of time, because the ability to project numerous bright marking lines will allow you to perform marking work much faster without resorting to levels and rulers.

The ADA CUBE 360 level is equipped with a red laser and has a second power class (you can use it without special protective glasses, without fear for your eyesight). Unlike many other laser levelers, the ADA CUBE 360 projects a 360° laser beam in a horizontal plane. That is, a distinct red line (about 2 mm thick) is "drawn" immediately around the entire perimeter of the room. This function is indispensable if you are engaged in wall tiling or other types of work in which it is required to maintain the same level on several surfaces at the same time.

This level is compact. It is made in the form of a small "cube". Such a device is convenient to store in a toolbox or carry in a pocket of overalls. Despite the simple design and small size, the device is quite reliable. It is well protected from dust and moisture, withstands bumps and falls from a small height. The device has excellent battery life. From three "finger" batteries or AA batteries, the level can work up to 15 hours. The disadvantages include the lack of a point projection, which is sometimes needed to perform some types of construction and installation work.

Inexpensive (the price is less than $ 100), but quite decent in quality, the ADA CUBE 360 BASIC EDITION level will appeal to tile masters and specialists engaged in ceiling installation. In other (slightly more expensive) configuration options, it comes with additional accessories: a tripod and a holder. There is also a version of the ADA CUBE 360 GREEN ULTIMATE EDITION, equipped with a clearer and brighter green laser, but it costs almost twice as much.

The Bosch GLL 3-15 X Professional laser plane builder takes not so much functionality (there is nothing "superfluous" in it) as the overall quality of execution and accuracy of work. He is able to build planes (two vertical projections and one horizontal) and make a vertical point for accurate positioning of the device. The built-in pendulum system independently aligns the device along the horizon (up to 3 °). There is a bubble level on the rotary base, which is necessary for precise adjustment in the desired plane. Calibration is maintained even with small bumps and falls. Thanks to this design, the beam deflection does not exceed 0.2 mm/ m (a very good indicator, only rotary devices are more accurate among laser levelers).

Professional Bosch levelers always have very simple and intuitive controls. This model is no exception. It is very easy to set up and adapts to any job. From four AA batteries, the device can work independently from 10 to 24 hours (depending on the number of simultaneous projections). In order to increase the battery life, the device is equipped with an auto-off function (after 30 minutes of downtime, the lasers automatically turn off). The device is supplied with a high-quality case, inside which the level is protected from damage and shock when carrying.

The Bosch GLL 3-15 X Professional level is undoubtedly a professional technique. Moreover, it is "five—star" — it is positively evaluated by most of the masters who used it in their work. And the price is not sky-high (within $ 200). For a home, such a tool is hardly needed (for simple tasks, you can buy a good laser level twice as cheap), but professional builders should not skimp and save.

The DeWalt DCE089D1G level can project two vertical lines and one horizontal line at the same time (point projection is not provided). All three reflectors have a 360° coverage angle, "drawing" lines with a laser around the perimeter of the room. The integrated rotary platform also rotates freely around its axis. This design provides maximum freedom in the construction of planes, allowing you to adapt to any construction tasks.

The device is equipped with green lasers. The green lines of the laser marking are much more noticeable than the red ones. They are clearly visible even on light surfaces in sunny weather. Despite the fact that green lasers consume more energy, this will not be a problem, because the level is powered by a 2 Ah battery, which lasts for a long time.

DeWalt DCE089D1G is a technique for harsh operating conditions. It has a protection class of IP65. This means that its body is completely sealed. That is, the device can work in clouds of abrasive dust or get under a jet of water — and will remain in good and working condition. The manufacturer claims that the level can withstand a fall from a height of two metres without any damage.

An interesting feature of this device is the magnetic base. Thanks to powerful magnets, the level is securely held on any horizontal or vertical metal surface, whether it is a thin profile of a metal frame or a steel beam. A special holder is provided for attachment to non-metallic surfaces. All accessories (holder, battery and charger), together with the level itself, are packed in a case made of durable plastic, lined with foam polystyrene inserts from the inside. Therefore, it is almost impossible to damage the device when carrying or during transportation.

The DeWalt DCE089D1G level is perfect for craftsmen who are engaged in the installation of rolled metal structures or profiles in large-area premises. But it makes no sense to buy it for household tasks, because it is a professional technique that costs 3-5 times more than household-class devices.