The building level is a measuring tool, without which repairs or construction cannot be done. With its help, the surface is assessed according to its compliance with the vertical or horizontal plane. In this rating you will find the best levels for home and construction sites. And also how to choose a quality level, which manufacturer and company, according to what parameters.
Expert's choice:
| Model | Price |
| 1. Stanley 0-42-130 | from 8630 rub. |
| 2. Topex 29C883 | from 1160 rub. |
| 3. MATRIX 34004, “Rail” | from 519 rub. |
| 4. Sturm! 2015-04-600SL | from 589 rub. |
| 5. Bison Master 3482-08-15 | from 412 rub. |
Mini rating
Why do you need a building level?
This device consists of a lightweight body with markings (marks) and a flask with an air bubble. An alcohol solution is poured into the flask. This is due to the fact that alcohol does not freeze at low temperatures, unlike water. Also, the alcohol solution has the required viscosity, so the air bubble moves in it faster.
With his help:
- install windows and doors;
- lay tiles, bricks;
- check the horizontality of the floors;
- check the verticality of the walls;
- establish communications;
- install household appliances.
In simple words, using this device, the deviation of the surface from the horizontal or vertical is checked.
Attachments cannot be installed without measuring with a level. Stretch ceilings, partitions, leveling walls and wallpapering - all this work is carried out with preliminary measurements of the curvature of the plane with a level.
How to choose the right building level?
Ivan Usin
Engineer with 11 years of experience
Ask a Question
Consider the task! For example, a plumbing level is not suitable for installing a doorway, and a hammer level is not useful for laying a gas pipe. A simple bubble bottle is suitable for home and garden use. If measurements are carried out on a regular basis, you should take a closer look at the electronic model (it remembers all measurement indicators). For pros, laser is best.
Question to the expert
Long or short level – which one is better to choose?
For home use (hanging cabinets or shelves), a length of half a meter or 60 cm is sufficient. If you need to make repairs in spacious rooms, choose devices 1500 mm or 2 meters in length.
What else should you pay attention to when choosing a building level?
Durability and quality are also important indicators when choosing. Pay attention to the marks located on the inside of the flask; the outer divisions are quickly erased. During operation, the level may fall from a height, so the material used to make the flasks must withstand mechanical loads.
Types of levels
To choose the best level, you need to have an idea of its types.
Levels are divided into:
- mechanical bubble;
- magnetic;
- electronic;
- laser;
- hydraulic levels
- plumbing;
- drums.
Using a mechanical bubble (rack, profile) level is simple: the evenness of the surface is determined by the position of the air bubble located in the ampoule. The length of the device is from 0.30 m to several meters. The body is made of aluminum alloys, the ampoule with an air bubble is protected by glass. Professional bubble levels are inexpensive and have high measurement accuracy.
Magnetic levels are used when working with metal components. This is also a bubble device, but it can be fixed to the surface using built-in magnets.
The design of electronic levels includes several chambers with air and a protractor. In addition, the device is equipped with a sound indication and an LCD display - it displays measurement parameters. A digital display and recording of measured slopes are additional features that create convenience during construction and installation work.
The hydraulic level consists of a pair of containers connected by a transparent tube. Before starting measurements, they are filled two-thirds with water and checked that the liquid level in both containers is the same. Hydraulic levels are produced in lengths of 5 - 30 m. The disadvantage of the device is that it can only be used with an assistant; it takes measurements only horizontally.
The plumbing (pipe) level is used for communication pipes. The device is equipped with magnets and has a V-shaped notch. This is also a variant of the bubble level.
The most accurate building level is a laser level. It takes measurements with an error of 0.1 mm. With this device you can apply markings from a distance of several meters. Using a laser device, you can check not only horizontal/vertical, but also an inclined surface. Rotary installations cover the entire surrounding space with the help of rotation.
The impact level is used for laying ceramic tiles. Its special feature is a rubber hammer and striking pad.
The best manufacturers of building levels
The building materials market offers a wide selection of high-quality building levels. The most reliable and reputable companies include:
- Bosch;
- Stabila;
- Bison;
- ADA Instruments;
- Kapro;
- Stanley.
Stabila is a German brand of construction equipment. The models are distinguished by high measuring accuracy, ergonomic, and easy to use. The Bosch company enjoys stable authority; the brand name speaks for itself.
Stanley is a well-known American manufacturer of levels; the models are made using the latest technological developments and are of high quality.
Zubr models are distinguished by increased body strength.
The list continues with products from Kapro and ADA Instruments, known for their high quality and accuracy.
The low price of measuring instruments does not mean a bad product. Each device is distinguished by the quality and accuracy of measurements; the high price is due to the brand name and the quality of the manufacturing material. Which company's levels are more accurate? Russian and foreign instruments are equally accurate in measurements.
Stanley FatMax Level 1-43-572
The 180 cm level is equipped with three flasks, two of which are vertical. One of the notable qualities of the device is the presence of Dual View technology, which provides improved visibility behind the horizontal capsule.
Users speak very warmly about this model. It weighs noticeably more than its analogues due to the extended body (9 mm). This adds to the device not only stability, but also reliability. The ergonomic part of the model is in complete order. Rubberized handles and sides add comfort. The model can often be seen in domestic construction stores for 2,500 rubles.
Advantages of the model:
- high level accuracy;
- reliable aluminum construction;
- rubberized handles;
- improved horizontal scale with excellent visibility;
- wide body and increased weight.
No serious deficiencies were identified.
The best magnetic levels
Fit "3 eyes"
Fit "3 eyes" magnetic level Characteristics
:
- length 50 m;
- 3 eyes;
- material aluminum
- milled edge;
- 786 rub.
There are no disadvantages, the working level is compact in size - you can take it with you.
Advantages and disadvantages
error 0.1 mm
magnetic stripe
ruler
pens
No
Kapro Torpedo Plumbsite 241-23
Construction level Kapro Torpedo Plumbsite 241-23
Characteristics:
- length 23 cm;
- 3 eyes;
- 1 handle;
- magnet;
- RUB 1,469
Suitable for home repairs and furniture assembly - installation of guides. The product sells out quickly, you need to buy it right away.
Advantages and disadvantages
error 0.1 mm
removable level
No
Matrix 34706 60 cm “3 eyes”
Matrix 34706 60 cm
Characteristics:
- length 60 cm;
- 3 eyes (one mirror);
- aluminium case;
- 559 rub.
Suitable for profile work, home renovation work and tiling. There may be minor errors in horizon level.
Advantages and disadvantages
reinforced body
magnet.
no handles.
The best laser levels
BOSCH GPL 5 Professional (0601066200)
Laser BOSCH GPL 5 Professional (0601066200)
Characteristics:
- range 30 m;
- battery powered;
- lines up 5 rays in different directions;
- 9,769 rubles.
A bright beam that hits long distances. The inconvenience is that the batteries run out quickly, and the battery does not work.
Advantages and disadvantages
tripod for installation
auto leveler
day of continuous work
high price
does not work at -10C and below
ELITECH LN 360/1
Laser level ELITECH LN 360/1
Characteristics:
- rotary;
- 2 emitters;
- range 30 m;
- range with receiver 80 m;
- Beam brightness is adjustable;
- 6,830 rub.
There is no sound signal and LCD display, no protection from moisture and dust. The batteries run out very quickly and have to be constantly replaced. The measurement accuracy is high.
Advantages and disadvantages
operating time up to 12 hours
high-quality assembly
auto leveler
clothespin holder
self-leveling angle 4 degrees
Bort BLN-15-K (98296808)
Bort BLN-15-K
Characteristics:
- rotary;
- range 15 m;
- range with receiver 30 m;
- Beam brightness is adjustable;
- auto leveler;
- 3 batteries;
- 2 LEDs;
- RUB 2,531
Powered by mains, saves money on batteries. Adjustable legs - can be installed on any uneven surface. The measurement accuracy is superior to Bosch levels.
Advantages and disadvantages
tripod for installation
there is a bubble level
eye protection glasses
hard to see in daylight
weight up to two kg
What is the most accurate building level
The most accurate is a laser level, which is also called a level. It will help to build horizontal and vertical guidelines, as well as an inclined surface. Every year, laser models are improved, functionality and equipment are expanded, and auxiliary modes are added.
Laser tools are widely used in professional construction and home renovation. The levels operate in three planes at once, which simplifies the work of the technician and makes the measurement results as accurate as possible.
Construction level better video
Stanley FatMax XL 0-43-672
This is one of the best bubble building levels in its price segment. The device does an excellent job of measuring deviations in three main planes - horizontal, vertical and angles. 180 centimeters in length is enough for almost any type of work, from domestic work to professional measurements.
The design has a box-shaped section, which significantly increases the reliability of the level. Judging by user reviews, it can be safely dropped onto concrete. He will survive all physical impacts with dignity. Naturally, without fanaticism, and it’s not worth hammering nails into them.
The device received a pair of vertical and one horizontal capsule. They are securely fixed in acrylic blocks. Rubberized handles and a magnetized base add ergonomics to the device. The cost of a building level fluctuates around 4,000 rubles.
Advantages of the model:
- the highest (for a bubble instrument) measurement accuracy;
- durable and reliable design resistant to physical impacts;
- reinforced acrylic blocks for flasks;
- convenient design;
- clearly visible scales.
No deficiencies were identified.
How to check a tool
How to check the construction bubble level? Ask if the building materials store has a special stand for checking levels? If not, you will have to check on a horizontal plane. You need to place the device on the surface and press firmly. It is important that there is no gap between the level and the support. Carefully remember where the air bubble is located.
On a note! The buyer has the right to request a level check for measurement accuracy.
Now you need to turn the device 180 degrees, wait a little and check the location of the bubble. The previous and new positions of the air bubble must match. If this does not happen, then the device is defective.
Stabila 02290 (type 70) 150 cm
This is one of the most popular levels in the domestic market. They buy it mainly for amateur needs, but professionals also do not disdain it. The 150-centimeter device is made of high-quality aluminum alloy, so it boasts high reliability. You can drop it without danger, but you should not hit it with a hammer.
For additional protection, the design is treated with a high-tech powder coating. The latter allows you to avoid abrasion and also protects the case from scratches and other environmental influences.
The level received two flasks for measuring the horizon and vertical. They are securely fixed in the body without a hint of play. The only thing that users sometimes complain about in their reviews is the lack of calibration screws. The device is a frequent guest in Russian stores, where you can buy it for fifteen hundred thousand.
Advantages of the model:
- good measurement accuracy;
- high-quality powder coating;
- reliability of design;
- rubberized sides.
Flaws:
- no screws for calibration;
- light weight.
