What is a Rotary Laser Level
Rotary laser levels are an excellent choice for larger projects, as they can project a 360-degree vertical or horizontal line around an entire room. Rotary lasers can be leveled in several different ways: either manually, by adjusting the bubble vials built into the tool, or by self-leveling using pendulums and magnets, or most accurately by using electronic leveling, which uses several small servo-motors to level the laser.
Best Rotary Laser Levels List
Johnson-Level-Tool-99-006K-Self-Leveling Rotary Laser System
Best Features
- The Johnson Level Tool features automatic leveling in the horizontal plane and manual leveling in the vertical plane with a 90-degree split beam
- Automatic locking protects the inner pendulum when not in use
- The laser features a choice of 200, 400, or 600 RPM, with the lower RPM preferable for indoor projects and the higher RPM useful for completing outdoor projects using a scanner
- This kit comes with a tripod stand and a laser detector, as well as glasses to protect your eyes and improve visibility while using the laser
What did customers have to say?
Positive
- Customers praised both the accuracy of the rotary laser and the laser detector, finding it to be accurate from as far as 70′ away. They also concluded that the unit was easy to set up and use with a clear instruction manual.
- Many also appreciated that the kit includes everything you need to start using the laser, rather than requiring you to gather supplies from different sources.
Negative
- A few customers discovered that they received damaged units whose lasers would not work straight out of the box. However, after contacting the company they were promptly sent replacements.
Topcon RL-H4C Rotary Laser Horizontal Level
Best Features
- The Topon is accurate horizontally to 1/16 of an inch within 100 feet; an included laser receiver extends the range greatly
- The unit is water and dustproof, as well as having a battery life up to 80 hours
- This laser is self-leveling and will automatically relevel itself if knocked out of position, as well as an audible out-of-level alert
What did customers have to say?
Positive
- Customers declared that the unit was accurate and easy to use, even with one person.
- It retains its accuracy over long distances which is vital when leveling large patches of ground outside.
- The vast majority of customers were incredibly pleased with the quality of the product.
Bosch GRL400HCK Exterior Self-Leveling Rotary Laser Complete Kit with Receiver, Tri-Pod, Grade Rod, and Hard Case
Best Features
- A patented dual-laser system features two horizontal lasers that can be used together or separately
- Motorized microfine plumb alignment allows you to adjust the left and right beams without relocating the unit
- A smart leveling pendulum system self-levels readjusts, beeps when out of position, and locks into position when turned off
What did customers have to say?
Positive
- Customers were happy with the 1200 foot range of the Bosch, which makes it ideal for outdoor projects.
- They found that the unit is an incredible bargain, performing very well for a laser in its price range.
Johnson Level & Tool 99-028K Electronic Dual Slope Rotary Laser System
Best Features
- Includes an electronically controlled dual slope feature
- Features a choice of dot mode, two adjustable line lengths and two rotational speeds of 200 and 500 RPM
- Includes a detector, grade rod, and grade rod mounting bracket for outdoor use
What did customers have to say?
Positive
- Users found that the instruction manual was easy to understand, and the level was easy to use.
- They also praised its accuracy and distance, which is up to 1500 feet outside with the use of a detector.
- Overall, purchasers agreed that the unit was a great deal.
DEWALT DW079KDT 18-Volt Self-Leveling Rotary Laser Kit with Laser Detector and Tripod
Best Features
- The automatic horizontal and vertical level shuts off when out of level and comes with a remote control for maximum convenience
- A private mode prevents interference from other remote controls on the job site
- It includes a heavy-duty aluminum tripod and is weather-resistant, making this an ideal choice for outside work
What did customers have to say
Positive
- Customers were happy to discover how much time the DEWALT saved them, with setup taking only a matter of minutes and the laser adjusting itself quickly. They found it to work accurately.
Negative
- One critic reviewer mentioned that if the battery runs out in the middle of the job, you will have to stop and buy a replacement battery for upwards of $100.
CST/Berger RL25HCK Horizontal/Exterior Self-Leveling Rotary Laser Complete Kit
Best Features
- This self-leveling system is accurate within 3/32 of an inch and has an extended range of 2000 feet
- Single Axis Slope Control lets you control the slope of the laser
- An Anti-Drift System alerts you when the laser drifts from benchmark
- Powered by 3 D-batteries, this unit has a battery life of 80 hours and a Low Battery Gauge to alert you when it’s almost time for a replacement
What did customers have to say?
Positive
- Users were impressed with the durability of the equipment, especially given the price. They found it easy to use even with just one person.
- The automatic shut off The battery life and automatic shut off were also praised.
Negative
- A few reviewers criticized the unwieldiness of the detector.
PLS Laser PLS-60583 PLS HVR 505R Mid Range Rotary Laser Kit
Best Features
- This PLS Laser is accurate within a 1/8 ” up to 100 feet and has a radius of 500 feet
- It comes with a remote control and laser detector for use in bright sunlight
- A 1-year warranty will cover you for any defects
What did customers have to say?
Positive
- User agreed that the unit was easy to set up and use, as well as having a good battery life.
- It also comes with a spare set of batteries, so you don’t need to worry about running out to buy new ones after the first ones die.
Negative
- A few users complained that the instruction manual lacked the detail necessary for understanding how to work the laser.
- Some also pointed out that while the remote control has buttons for complicated use, it does not have an on/off button for the laser.
Conclusion
For the contractor or construction worker, rotary lasers are an invaluable replacement for old-fashioned bubble levels. They save time and promote accuracy. Hopefully, this guide has helped you select the best fit for your working conditions.