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In almost any home renovation, achieving the best results requires a level. It’s one of those indispensable tools that easily goes overlooked. A construction level indicates when a surface is perfectly level with the ground, and it can help the user find the proper slope. Whether you’re installing cabinets or determining the slope of a patio, having the best level on hand is key to a successful project. In our search for the best, we tested 9 different levels on a variety of projects, from hanging pictures to building a deck.
Our all-around favorite was the Stabila Pro Set, primarily because it included the most widely used box level sizes. The levels in this set are well built and easy to read with perfect accuracy. But a collection of levels might not be right for every buyer, and this kit does not perform some popular specialty functions. That’s why our roundup also includes a digital level, laser levels, a string level, and more.
On just about any DIY build or repair—laying a deck, trimming table legs, hanging pictures, or painting stripes on an accent wall—starting with a level reference is the only way to achieve consistent and accurate results. There’s a perfect tool for each of these scenarios, and this guide will help you choose from among the best levels for your next project.
- BEST OVERALL: Stabila Pro Set 80 AS Spirit Levels With Case
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Craftsman CMHT82347 48-Inch Box Beam Level
↓ Jump to Review - BEST TORPEDO LEVEL: Johnson Level & Tool Magnetic Glow View Torpedo Level
↓ Jump to Review - BEST DIGITAL LEVEL: Empire 24-Inch Magnetic Digital Box Level
↓ Jump to Review - BEST LINE LEVEL: Empire Line 3-Piece Levels Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST POST LEVEL: Swanson Tool Co. Magnetic Post Level
↓ Jump to Review - BEST LASER LEVEL: DeWalt DW089K 3-Beam Line Laser Level
↓ Jump to Review - BEST COMPACT LASER: Bosch GLL3-330CG Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser Level
↓ Jump to Review - BEST ROTARY LASER LEVEL: Topcon RL-H5A Self-Leveling Construction Laser
↓ Jump to Review
Our Top Picks
Levels come in a lot of varieties, and we’ve tested most of them. From reliable box levels to digital and laser types, there’s a level for your project. Here are our top picks for the best levels.
Best Overall
Stabila Pro Set 80 AS Spirit Levels With Case
What We Like
- Includes most commonly used lengths and storage sleeve
- Non-marring end bumpers
- Lightweight, durable aluminum construction
- Easy-to-read vials
What We Don’t Like
- Premium price for high-quality tools
- No magnetic edges or pipe grooves
Product Specs
- Type: Manual box beam
- Material: Aluminum
- Length: 48 inches, 24 inches, and 12 inches
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Design 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 5/5
If you’re just starting to build a tool collection, a good set of level tools is an investment that can last a lifetime. The spirit levels in the Stabila Pro Set feature powder-coated aluminum box frame construction for lightweight durability and crystal clear vials for outstanding visibility. This kit includes the three most popular level lengths: 48-inch, 24-inch, and 12-inch levels, in a padded carry case for added protection.
For accurate marking, the Stabila levels include slip-resistant rubber end caps. In our tests, when we placed them against a surface, they stayed put, making it much easier to scribe an accurate level line. And unlike cheaper levels, the vials were enclosed in clear protective blocks that minimize the chance of accidental breakage.
The central vial windows are wide open on the top edge and easy to see. Some users prefer “bridged” windows that have the level body intact along the edges with an oval cutout to see the vial below. But we found that this full cutout design provided the absolute best visibility. The 48- and 24-inch levels in this kit are equipped with perpendicular vials at each end. The 12-inch woodworking level has one horizontal and one perpendicular vial. This is an excellent general purpose kit.
What our tester says: “I like that this kit includes the three sizes that I always use. They felt more maneuverable than the other levels because the proportions were different. The two long levelers were narrower and lighter than average, but the short one was chunkier and a bit longer than the torpedo level.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Stabila levels at Amazon or KC Tool.
Best Bang For The Buck
Craftsman CMHT82347 48-Inch Box Beam Level
What We Like
- Affordable box-beam level for long-term stability and durability
- Lightweight aluminum construction with rubber end caps
- Continuous flat edge for full-length marking
What We Don’t Like
- Plastic handle liners feel somewhat flimsy
Product Specs
- Type: Manual box beam
- Material: Aluminum
- Length: 48 inches
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Design 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.7/5
Craftsman is well known for offering some of the best tools at a value price point. When it comes to a single level for all-around purposes, it’s tough to beat a 4-footer, especially at this price. This 48-inch level from Craftsman has all of the features needed from a quality level: a sturdy construction, easy-to-read vials, and a lightweight build. The built-in grips make it easy to use while wearing gloves, as well as offering a handy way to hang the level on a shop wall.
The sturdy aluminum construction is rustproof in case the powder coat chips, so there is no need to worry about damage when clamping it to use as a saw guide or straight edge. The plastic end caps also help to reduce shock should this level ever fall. The tool will serve its purpose well for nearly any project, from hanging doors to framing or finishing work.
In our tests, the Craftsman level resisted flexing under moderate pressure. It was easy to maneuver in gloved hands (although the plastic grip liners seemed a bit flimsy), and easy to read from different angles. The bridged center vial window offered the best of both worlds: an easy top view as well as a full-length straight edge. As one might expect from this brand, it’s good quality for a value price.
Get the Craftsman level at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Upgrade Pick
Johnson Level & Tool Magnetic Glow View Torpedo Level
What We Like
- Magnetic flat edge and V-groove pipe edge
- Includes level, plumb, and 45-degree vials
- Features glow-in-the-dark vial surrounds
- Continuous edge with window cutout
What We Don’t Like
- Strong magnets sometimes pick up nails and screws
Product Specs
- Type: Manual torpedo
- Material: Aluminum
- Length: 9 inches
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Design 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.7/5
Pocket-size torpedo levels come in handy for projects like hanging artwork and installing plumbing. This one from Johnson brings with it several features that lean into versatility. It features a heavy-duty aluminum frame with a composite insert for durability. The top edge is grooved to fit snugly against a pipe or conduit and includes a top-read window. The flat bottom edge includes three powerful rare earth magnets for hands-off reference. A trio of easy-to-read vials provide level, plumb, and 45-degree readings. And each vial is bordered by a glow-in-the-dark surround to improve visibility in crawl spaces, attics, and other low-light project areas.
This level offered everything we were looking for in a torpedo level. The frame felt sturdy but not too heavy to carry in a pocket, and the vials were easy to read, even in low light conditions, with the occasional exception of the top-read window. The narrow dimensions of the window only allowed a restricted view, but the compact size fit nicely in a toolbox, and the orange composite insert made it easy to see if we misplaced it somewhere. The magnetic edge was super strong for the size, so when we stuck it to a pipe, it stayed put.
Get the Johnson level at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Blain’s Farm & Fleet.
Best Digital
Empire 24-Inch Magnetic Digital Box Level
What We Like
- 24-inch level with digital readout and bubble vials
- 7 digital measuring modes
- IP65 rated for weather and dust resistance
What We Don’t Like
- Heavier than a manual level
Product Specs
- Type: Digital/manual box level
- Material: Aluminum
- Length: 24 inches
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Design 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.7/5
Bubble levels indicate, with good accuracy, when a surface is level or plumb, but some projects require a slope. The Empire Magnetic Digital Box Level is our favorite all-in-one solution for leveling and finding slopes. It comes equipped with two spirit level vials for measuring level and plumb, as well as a pre-calibrated digital level for precise slope readings. For hands-free convenience, strong magnets are embedded in one edge, and an audible indicator lets you know if you’re low, high, or right on. The kit we sampled also included a manual torpedo level, a 7-inch rafter square, and a zippered carry case.
This carpenter level 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 edge for quick reference from the front, back, or top edge, and the vertical one is visible from the front and back. The two digital displays, on the front and top edge, featured a bright backlight function that made them easy to read in low light. The audio function, which we were able to turn off/on independently from the digital display, produced different tones, depending on which end of the level was too high. For plumbing and other work in tight spaces, we also liked that the digital display automatically inverted when we flipped the level over with the bottom/magnetic edge to the top.
What our tester says: “The Empire digital level was a huge difference-maker for projects that require a drainage slope, like installing pavers. The audio indicator made finding the “perfect” level easier than using a bubble level. And for slope readings, I liked that I was able to choose from degrees, percentages, inches per foot, or millimeters per meter displays.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Empire digital level at The Home Depot.
Best Line Level
Empire Line 3-Piece Levels Set
What We Like
- Affordable; easy to use for site prep, layout
- Vari-pitch vials include gradient indicator markings
- Vials include quick connect/release and pocket clips
- Easy-to-see gold mason’s line
What We Don’t Like
- If the line is not tight the reading will be off
Product Specs
- Type: Manual line level
- Material: Plastic
- Length: Up to 100 feet
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Design 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 5/5
Line levels are a popular solution for landscaping, masonry, and plumbing projects because they are affordable, easy to use, and provide an accurate reading over longer distances than other types of levels. This set from Empire includes two line levels and a 100-foot spool of easy-to-see gold-colored mason’s line made of twisted nylon. The lightweight plastic vials help minimize sag, and the open hooks on the levels slide freely along the line. The (white) Vari-Pitch vial reads from level to ½-inch pitch in ⅛-inch increments.
This kit provided a perfect example of what to expect from line levels, along with the weak points of this system. When the line was pulled tight between firmly planted stakes, we got accurate readings that allowed us to use the line as a reliable reference. The levels clipped on easily, slid smoothly along the line, and provided a quick, accurate reading. But any disturbance to the stakes risked disruption to the project. Accidentally kicking a stake or snagging the string with a tool would either cause the string to sag or move it out of level, either of which meant that we had to recalibrate the setup before continuing. Nonetheless, it’s much cheaper than a laser level, may be easier to read in certain light conditions, and can be just as effective.
Get the Empire line level at The Home Depot.
Best Post Level
Swanson Tool Co. Magnetic Post Level
What We Like
- Hands-free leveler tool shows plumb and level
- Indicates plumb along adjacent planes simultaneously
- Elastic holder works with non-ferrous pipes and posts
- Magnetic inserts for iron-based pipes and posts
What We Don’t Like
- Posts must be straight for accuracy
Product Specs
- Type: Manual post and pipe level
- Material: Composite/plastic
- Length: NA
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 5/5; Design 5/5; Durability 4/5; Value 4.7/5
Installing fence posts properly can be challenging, but a good post level can help. The Swanson Tool Co.’s magnetic post level wraps around a post corner to measure plumb on adjacent sides at the same time, making it easy to install the post with precision. For hands-free ease of use, the post level comes equipped with magnets and an elastic strap that can hold it against the post, or a pipe, as you work.
We used the Swanson Tool Co post level on round and square posts and pipes, including steel, wood, and PVC. The design worked well overall, but we noticed that the magnets occasionally slid when the post was jarred. The only other concern was that our pile of wooden fence posts included a few that were slightly curved from warping. Had we wanted to use any of those, then this level would not have been accurate.
The elastic strap that comes with the level worked fairly well with 4×4 posts, 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 easy to replace with a heavy-duty rubber band if needed.
Get the Swanson Tool Co. level at Amazon or Walmart.
Best Laser Level
DeWalt DW089K 3-Beam Line Laser Level
What We Like
- Self-leveling laser feature aids in user-friendliness
- Robust build quality can withstand heavy-duty use
- Easy installation and operation
- Micro-adjust knob allows for quick adjustments
What We Don’t Like
- Incapable of emitting 360-degree beams like comparable models
Product Specs
- Type: Self-leveling cross-line laser
- Material: Metal and composite plastic
- Length: 50-foot range
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Design 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.7/5
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 projects three self-leveling red beams (one horizontal line and two vertical dual-beam lasers) for leveling and lining up almost any project. It’s accurate to within ⅛ inch at 30 feet, and it also has a micro-adjust knob on the top that allows the user to dial in the beam’s perfect alignment.
Of all the laser levels we tested, the DeWalt laser level proved to be one of the easiest to set up and use. It features a magnetic back as well as a beam clamp for attaching to angle irons, although most of our tests involved setting it on a flat surface. The red laser was very bright and easy 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 unscathed. The only thing it really can’t do is project a 360-degree beam.
Get the DeWalt level at Amazon or ToolUp.
Best Compact Laser
Bosch GLL3-330CG Self-Leveling Cross-Line Laser Level
What We Like
- Multidirectional green lasers provide very accurate measurements
- Bluetooth connectivity allows measurements to be stored
- Can be powered by various battery sources
What We Don’t Like
- Expensive compared to similar laser levels
Product Specs
- Type: Self-leveling cross-line laser
- Material: Composite and metal
- Length: 200-foot diameter (can extend to 330 feet with purchase of receiver)
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4/5; Design 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.7/5
Shoppers who are looking for a level that can do it all and don’t mind spending quite a bit more may want to consider the Bosch GLL3-330CG. This self-leveling model has a 360-degree horizontal plane laser and two 360-degree vertical plane lasers, providing a level line of reference for any job. The green laser has a working range of up to a 200-foot diameter, though this can be extended to 330 feet with the separate purchase of an LR8 receiver.
Some of the GLL3-330CG’s premium features are so subtle that they can actually go unnoticed. For example, this laser level monitors its battery life and adjusts the beam for optimal visibility. Its CAL Guard feature utilizes internal sensors to detect drops, high heat, and other faults that could disturb the unit’s calibration. The unit takes care of itself and lets the user know when it’s time to correct something.
The Bosch laser level proved to be a serious piece of machinery during testing. It is highly accurate, with a maximum deviation of just 3/32 of an inch at 30 feet. The three 360-degree planes were easy for us to see and use.
After we dropped the GLL3-330CG three times, it registered a calibration fault that required logging into the app to clear. This was more of a benefit than an issue as it was easy to clear and did warn of the shocks. Another thing we liked about this level is that it can be powered by different types of battery sources, including the included rechargeable lithium-ion battery or four AA alkaline batteries. The only drawback? While it is pro-quality and very precise, it’s a bit pricey.
Get the Bosch level at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Best Rotary Laser Level
Topcon RL-H5A Self-Leveling Construction Laser
What We Like
- Highly accurate, even at long distances
- Self-leveling feature ensures laser beam is horizontal, level
- Excellent battery life; up to 100 hours runtime
What We Don’t Like
- No grade rod or tripod included
Product Specs
- Type: Rotary laser level
- Material: Composite plastic and metal
- Length: 2,600-foot range
Our Ratings: Ease of Use 4.8/5; Design 5/5; Durability 5/5; Value 4.8/5
Professionals use rotary laser levels for construction jobs that entail earth moving. Boasting an IP66 dust and water protection rating, the Topcon RL-H5A self-leveling laser is built for the harsh environment of a construction site. We tested this laser level tool indoors and outdoors, and it excelled in all our trials.
This model automatically self-levels. To begin our testing, we set up the level and turned it on. It took a few seconds for the internal mechanism to determine the true level, and then the red beam started rotating. In indoor tests, we were able to see the beam easily on the walls, but red beams are nearly invisible outdoors, so we had to rely on the detector to pick up the beam—something it did very well. The detector fits on a grade rod and emits different pitch beeps that indicate if you need to slide it up or down or are level with the beam.
The Topcon rotary laser is a high-precision tool. It is accurate to within 1/16 inch at 100 feet and has an impressive range of 2,600 feet in a straight line (1,300 feet radius), making it ideal for soil grading projects. This model also has a manual slope feature that allowed us to check the grade of our yard for the recommended slope. It doesn’t calculate slope, so we had to do the math and adjust the receiver height on the rod to suit. Then, the Topcon RL-H5A detected the receiver to create a perfect 2 percent slope.
Unfortunately, this model does not include a tripod or grading rod, so we had to borrow from other models we tested. It runs on four D batteries, but Topcon sells a rechargeable battery pack as well. The best use for this laser rotating level is for determining the perfect horizontal level, but you can also use it to shoot a sloped grade.
Read our full review: Topcon RL-H5A Self-Leveling Construction Laser
Get the Topcon level at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Levels
| Testing Stats | |
| Products tested | 9 |
| Time spent testing | 5 hours |
| Tests performed | 4 |
| Price range | $5 to $650 |
This guide showcases the most common types of levels used in construction, remodeling, landscaping, and other DIY projects. Some, like box levels and torpedo levels, are very broadly useful, while others like post levels and rotary laser levels have more specific applications. We considered more than 30 models before selecting this group for testing.
We wanted to test each type in a realistic way that would reflect typical uses. We also aimed to avoid confusing comparisons between unrelated types. We used the levels on actual projects in the ways that they were intended to be used and evaluated them independently. We awarded the “best of” titles by considering ease of use compared to similar types, practicality and effectiveness of design, durability of construction, and overall value.
What to Consider When Choosing a Level
While all levels basically do the same job, the various ways they do it can affect their suitability for particular tasks. While most are capable of adapting to a variety of jobs, many professionals and keen DIYers will have at least two different models for maximum accuracy in specific situations. In the following section, we look at the types of levels available and their key features.
Types of Levels
The most common type of level is the manual spirit level: it gets its name because the liquid inside is normally mineral spirits, not water. It’s also called a bubble level for obvious reasons, as the location of the bubble between two guidelines indicates the level plane. More recent introductions are the digital level and laser level. Not covered in this article are optical levels (generally used for surveying) and water levels, which are often homemade devices used when a spirit level isn’t long enough.
Traditional/Manual
The modern manual spirit level has been around for more than 360 years, and in that time, it has changed very little. A small air bubble trapped inside a vial filled with mineral spirits indicates level (or plumb) when it is in the middle of the vial. The number of vials on a level 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-beam levels are a type of spirit level that is generally rectangular in shape. I-beam levels are similar but lighter, using flanges along the horizontal top and bottom instead of the full-length construction of a box level.
The smallest manual levels are called torpedo levels because of their shape, which angles in slightly at the ends. These can be as small as 6 inches long. Larger models are usually called a carpenter’s or contractor’s level, and these can be anywhere from 24 to 96 inches long.
Digital
A number of manual levels offer digital displays. These may be provided in conjunction with traditional vials, or the vials may be omitted. The main advantage of these devices is that the display is easy to read, particularly in poor lighting. They can also provide readings for different angles thanks to a built-in inclinometer. Some will deliver an audible alert when a particular angle is reached.
Dedicated digital levels are more compact than even torpedo levels and are particularly useful in cramped spaces. They might include several preprogrammed features like common pitch angles, and they may be able to indicate an X and Y axis at the same time. Some have rotating displays for reading easily in different positions. Most we found do not measure distance, so a separate digital tape measure would be necessary if that function is required.
Laser
A laser level differs from other kinds of levels in that it doesn’t measure or indicate a level or plumb state, but instead projects a laser beam to work along. The beam can be horizontal, vertical, or both. As a result, a laser level is best used for the initial layout, not for checking work in progress. Some also incorporate a stud finder.
In the right conditions, a laser can transmit 50 feet or more. However, using laser levels can prove a struggle in bright sunlight. Special glasses may be provided to improve visibility, and a laser target may also be used.
Accuracy
Accuracy is obviously a key issue. Many spirit levels are quoted as accurate to 0.0005 inch or 0.029 degrees, which sounds impressive, but in real terms, precision depends on how carefully the user checks the position of the bubble within the vial and ensures that the items being checked (as well as the level itself) are steady. Generally speaking, it’s best to use the longest level possible because they register smaller variations. However, this isn’t always practical, hence the variety of sizes available.
In most situations, a traditional spirit level is more than adequate, but when used correctly, digital levels provide a more accurate readout. There’s also little chance of error from the human element. Laser levels can project an almost perfectly level line over dozens of feet when accurate laying out is required, something even the longest bubble level cannot match.
Durability
Low-cost torpedo levels are often made of plastic, which is sometimes impact-resistant. Large models tend to be made of aluminum, which provides a good balance between strength and weight. To maximize rigidity (which is vital in a spirit level), these either have an I-beam shape (similar to many steel construction girders) or rectangular box sections. The latter is often considered best but is more difficult to manufacture, so it is often more expensive. Plastic or rubber end caps are often added to help prevent damage to a level if dropped, though they don’t necessarily prevent bending.
Digital and laser levels have complex electronics inside that can be prone to damage in harsh work environments. High-quality devices are tested to the international ingress protection (IP) standard that gives a rating for dust and water protection. They may also have a drop-test rating that gives the height of a fall the tool should be expected to survive.
Other Features
Magnets are common to all types of levels. Users can then affix the level to any ferrous metal object, thus freeing their hands. Ferrous materials are those that contain iron, such as steel. Magnets don’t work on non-ferrous metals like brass, copper, or aluminum.
A V-groove is also commonly included along one or more edges of a level. This makes it easier to keep the level steady on pipework and conduit.
On some traditional levels, the center bubble has two sets of lines. The middle two indicate level, and the outer ones indicate an in-line level element of 2 or 4 degrees, which is commonly used when laying guttering or drainage pipes.
FAQs
With so many levels to choose from, there may still be lingering uncertainty. Below are answers to some of the most common questions.
Check the level’s accuracy by placing it on a flat surface. Make two marks on the surface to reference the exact position: one at the end and one at the center point along the side. Read the vial. Rotate the level 180 degrees end-to-end, using the reference marks to align it. The bubble should be in the same position as the first reading.
A 24-inch level is good for general indoor projects. A 48-inch level provides a longer reference for larger outdoor projects. Smaller torpedo levels are easier to work with in cramped spaces, as in plumbing and electrical work.
For general home use, aluminum, wood, or composite levels can provide excellent results. Masons often use wood levels because they are not easily dented when thumped with the butt of a trowel and because mortar doesn’t stick to wood. Another advantage is that wood doesn’t become hot or cold to the touch like aluminum and other metals. But for long-term use, wood levels do require more care and maintenance than metal or composite.
Meet the Testers
Tom Scalisi is a freelance writer specializing in the home design, construction, tools, and automotive industries. As a lover of all things tools, construction, and DIY, he’s always looking for new tools and techniques while also sharing his knowledge with the DIY world.
Glenda Taylor is a product tester and writer specializing in the construction, remodeling, and real estate industries. She and her husband own a general contracting company, and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial building applications.
Mark Wolfe is a product tester and writer who spent many years in the nursery and landscaping industry. He kept his tool box well stocked in order to build or repair fences, walls, irrigation systems, and equipment on any given day. Now he tests and writes reviews about the latest hand tools, lawn care products, outdoor power equipment, and other outdoor living goods.
