The Best Levels for Precision and Performance

The Best Level Buying Guide

We’ve all been in an awkward situation where we try to hang pictures on the wall only to realize they are slanted despite our many attempts. With high-quality levels, you can utilize these hand tools whether you’re a surveyor, mason, bricklayer, or even a casual DIYer. This buying guide will give you a closer look so that you can pick the best level for your needs. Let’s start by explaining the different types of levels and how to select the right one for you.

Different Types of Levels

Spirit Levels

Also known as bubble levels, spirit levels usually come with a sealed glass tube, known as a vial. The vial contains liquid, usually alcohol, as well as an air bubble. The top of the glass tube is bowed so that the surface under the level remains horizontal. Spirit levels are one of the most widely used types of levels.

Optical Levels

Optical levels are commonly used when surveying. Construction professionals use optical levels to establish or verify points in the same horizontal plane. An optical level can also be used for measuring height differences, setting measures, and transferring heights. 

Water Levels

Water levels operate on the popular principle that water will always find its level, wherever it is placed. A water level comprises two cylinders positioned on top of two surfaces, both of which need to remain level. A plastic tube placed below links the two cylinders together. The water inside of the cylinders will be level if the two surfaces are the same height. If they’re not, there will be a disparity. This type of level is particularly useful with objects separated by trees or other obstacles.

Laser Levels

Laser levels come with a laser projector that emits a beam onto the surface. This is intended to establish a level plane. For enhanced accuracy, some laser levels also show the plumb level. Note that the types listed above are broad types of levels, and there are other sub-types of each type. 

How to Choose a Level

Size

The size of the level that you’ll ultimately choose should depend on the kind of tasks you want to accomplish. Levels come in various sizes, and choosing the size that is best suited to your needs is important. For instance, a professional mason requires a higher level than your average DIYer. A professional working in tight spaces will prefer small-sized torpedo levels. To bridge this gap, most brands will offer levels in multiple sizes, while some even sell levels in sets of different-sized levels. 

Vials 

The vial is the part of the level that actually allows you to see if your surface is straight. While it is true that you’ll find vials at all spirit levels, the difference lies in the number of vials. Most spirit levels have a minimum of two vials, which are usually 00 and 900. Also, certain manufacturers go above and beyond by including three or four vials in one. Spirit levels with more than two vials offer you a certain amount of versatility that you simply won’t get with two vials alone. However, levels with only two vials may just be enough for you if your work doesn’t require 300 or 450 vials.

With the number of vials sorted out, consider their accuracy. What is the point of having multiple vials if they cannot offer you any accurate results? The vial’s accuracy tolerance will usually be indicated on the label, so ensure that you check it before making a final decision. The ease with which you can check the vial’s reading is another consideration worth making. Some levels have magnified vials for enhanced visibility, while others offer multiple viewing angles. 

Material

Like any other work tool, you should always opt for a level made of highly durable material that will hold up to heavy use. Apart from a durable metal body, some levels also have shock-absorbing rubber caps on the ends for enhanced durability

Digital Display

You should consider the availability of a digital display as part of a level. Without a digital display, you’ll have to rely on the bubbles alone for your reading. When a level is equipped with a digital display, you can view the reading on a display screen. Of course, this means you’ll need extra batteries to power the display unit. As such, you should consider the ease of finding replacement batteries and ask yourself if it is worth the additional effort.

Magnetism

Some levels have magnets underneath them for a hands-free working experience when working with metal surfaces. Although it is not a core consideration, if you work on metallic surfaces often, this is a good feature to look out for in your tool. It is not enough for the level to have magnets, so check the type of magnet used. For instance, levels with neodymium magnets will offer you unparalleled firmness because they are the strongest magnets that are currently commercially available.