Is your home in need of a new kitchen cabinet? The need to keep the cabinet level and straight might overwhelm you. But with laser levels, getting the job done will be much easier.
A laser level is essential for larger projects like cabinetry and shelving installations. They don’t need to be kept in place when installing the cabinet so that you can operate both hands-free—thanks to the brightly colored beam lines projected by these valuable gadgets. So, if you are looking for the best one, this article will take you through the best laser level for cabinets!
Why Is a Laser Level Necessary When Mounting Cabinets?
Nobody likes improperly fitted furniture or sloped surfaces. And the ideal tool for the best layout is a laser level. A laser level gives users a faster and easier time mounting cabinets while giving the house an excellent and professional finish by providing reference points using laser beams.
Highly Recommended Laser Levels Easily Used For Mounting Cabinets
It would be best if you bought a good laser level for your do-it-yourself home projects now that you know the benefits. Here are our recommendations for the top laser levels for hanging cabinets.
1. The GLL3-330CG Bosch 360-Degree Green line Laser [Most Cutting-Edge Laser Level]
If you want a laser level that can be operated by itself and manually but costs more than similar designs from other top brands, go for the GLL3-330CG Bosch laser level. This auto-leveling model provides a level point of reference for any job using two 360-degree perpendicular plane lasers and one 360-degree parallel plane laser. The green laser can be seen from up to 340 feet away.
The top-notch features of the GLL3-330CG can not be overlooked. The level keeps track of its battery capacity and modifies the beam for the best visibility and usage time. Furthermore, it contains built-in sensors that detect drops and bumps and warn the user of calibration problems.
During leveling testing, the GLL3-330CG Bosch was proven to be a reliable piece of equipment. There is no way to compare its accuracy to other laser levels. However, it has a 3/32 inch at about 30 feet (a 1/8-inch). It is simple to observe and operate the three 360-degree planes.
The GLL3-330CG may detect some calibration issues after falling off about three times, which can only be fixed by logging into the app. However, it is simple to remove from the mount and is a shockproof laser device, a more significant advantage than a problem. It is nice to know that this laser-level model provides various power sources—including rechargeable lithium batteries that can be easily replaced—the sole issue for other models. Despite being the top 360-degree laser level on this list, the tool is somewhat pricey.
Pros
- It’s a laser model with many projection angles.
- It supports Bluetooth interfacing for calibration monitoring.
- It uses both replaceable and rechargeable batteries.
Cons
- It is pricey.
- The battery’s promised lifespan is not met.
2. The DW088K DEWALT Line Laser Level [The Most Economical Laser Level On The Market]
This sturdy DeWALT model, created with optimum sturdiness in mind, has an over-molded casing that safeguards against the abrasions of a regular construction site and can even endure crashes or drops of up to one meter.
The DeWALT DW088K laser type is a self-leveling cross-line laser with a leveling application accuracy range of 0.3 mm per meter. It marks a leveled line in a matter of seconds and employs up to 4 degrees of surface angle with an automated out-of-level alert. This laser type provides a two-button operation and low battery notification for ease of use.
Its hard-sided case keeps your device clean, dry, and shielded when not in use. It also makes storing the laser device on a shelf easier than on a soft-sided one. Because of its IP54 rating and DeWALT’s ninety-day money-back warranty, protect it against water damage from all directions.
Pros
- It has a LED indicator that indicates when a surface is leveled.
- It has a 50-foot visibility range, and a magnetic pivoting base is included.
Cons
- There is no pendulum lock.
3. The 40-6603 Johnson Level & Tool [Better and Cheap Laser Level For Mounting Cabinets]
Most indoor applications, including installing cabinets, are perfect for this Johnson self-leveling laser level since it can produce a cross-sectional line beam laser with two laser beams in both parallel and perpendicular directions. Additionally, this Johnson’s laser model has a tilt mechanism for manual leveling that enables users to lock the gadget at any angle.
The laser model has an improved adjusting system to level surfaces using an inbuilt rotary system (pendulum). Still, it also has a visible indicator that flashes to let users know when the device is not level. This device also has a pendulum locking mechanism for accuracy and precision that makes it simple.
Finally, water and debris resistance in this Johnson Level model’s construction ensures its durability over time.
Pros
- Its cross-sectional line laser beams provide precise and exactness for layouts.
- It has a high level of accuracy.
- It has a compensation system for stabilizing a pendulum.
Cons
- Under harsh daylight, its red laser beams are not clearly seen.
4. The Huepar 3D Green Beam 360 Laser [A High Laser Level For Complete Room Layout]
This Huepar 3D GF360G laser model will be the best option for your needs if you’re working on mounting cabinets for your kitchen. This laser level can concurrently project three 360-degree beam lines on the target wall surface area for a rapid and precise whole room layout. Alternatively, you can use it to launch X and Y axis lines separately.
It has a rotary system that uses a pendulum. When the pendulum system is unlocked, the Huepar laser smart pendulum technology enables it to auto-level and signal when it is out of level. On the other hand, the device will immediately transition to manual mode after the pendulum is locked, enabling users to set the laser lines at any specific angle.
Not to mention that the Huepar tool has a USB charging port, allowing you to charge without taking out the battery conveniently.
Pros
- It supports 360 degrees rotation on three planes.
- A compact and robust design with USB charging capability.
Cons
- Its projected green laser beams are not as powerful as claimed when used for outdoor tasks.
5. The 93LCLS Klein Laser Level [The Most Reliable Laser Level For Daily Construction Use]
The 93LCLS Klein Tools Laser Level is best recommended for expert leveling tasks. This Klein tool laser model includes several features that the other models don’t. When installing conduits, cabinets, plumbing, or hang pictures, the 93LCLS Klein laser has parallel and perpendicular line beams and a plumb-spot finder that projects above and below the level.
The mounting compatibility for this laser model includes a magnetic installation with a 360-degree rotation and a mount designed specifically for drop ceiling rails. The 93LCLS lacks a steady 360-degree laser, but its ability to swivel on the mount while staying level helps to make up for this drawback. It is highly adaptable due to the multitude of mounting choices.
This Klein laser model was found to be durable and dependable laser level when tested. Its plumb spot is far quicker to use than a real plumb bob or level, and its capability on numerous recent leveling jobs is top-notch because the beamline is so simple to see. The laser device was also straightforward to set up. The only drawback to this specific level is that comparing the price with other brand models, a 360-degree 3 or 4-plane beamline should be included.
Pros
- It has a quick plumb-spot finder.
- It’s durable and long-lasting.
- Its setup is quick and easy.
Cons
- It is not equipped with a 360-degree plane.
- There is no manually operated locking mechanism for adjustable angles.
What To Look Out for in a Laser Level
Here are seven things to take into account when selecting a laser level:
1. Precision and Visual Range
If a laser level is precise, it can accurately measure the level of a wide range of workpiece surfaces. A laser level with a ±5/16 inch precision rating is less precise than one with a ±1/8 inch precision grade. The better the laser level, the more accurate and effective it will be. The visibility range describes the distance the laser is visible to the unaided eye. The more extensive workpiece surfaces one can use, the greater the visibility range.
The majority of Class 2 laser diode beam lines projected on indoor surfaces may be seen for up to 50 feet. A fifty-foot range should be adequate for working on modest to medium-sized building sites. Nevertheless, you will need a laser level with better and stronger visibility power for wider-scale construction.
2. Self-leveling Vs. Automatic Leveling Lasers Vs. Manual Leveling Lasers
Some inexpensive laser levels require manual leveling, requiring the operator to inspect a bubble vial to determine whether the projected beam line is leveled or not. An inbuilt pendulum in self-leveling lasers gives the stability for precision leveling. While most manual leveling lasers require almost no maintenance, it may be challenging to determine their leveling calibration. However, this is easily achieved with a self-leveling laser that has been calibrated.
3. Horizontal Lasers Or Double Beam Line Laser Level
Horizontal laser levels are excellent for determining the level of floors because they only emit horizontal laser beams. Most dual-beam laser levels include customized buttons for each beam, allowing for independent use of each. This type of laser can serve as both level and plumb reference lines at the same time. It works well for projecting lines at a 90-degree angle onto walls and floors to ensure that a surface is square.
Instead of separate horizontal and vertical lines, some dual-beam lasers project a cross-sectional line. These dual-beam lasers are ideal for installing partitions, cabinets, ceilings, and larger wall tilings.
However, rotary laser levels project two beamlines, one of which is a horizontal line circling the room and the other of which is a point on the ceiling.
4. Detectors of lasers (Laser Transceivers)
The main uses of laser detectors or transceivers are to increase the operating range of a laser level and make it possible to use laser levels outside. If you plan to purchase laser detectors, review the specs of your laser level because not all laser levels support detectors. Most detectors have sounds you can hear to assist you in leveling: a quick tone to move the sensor down, a leisurely tone to move it up, and a continuous tone to indicate level.
5. The IP Rating
The term “Ingress Protection” (abbreviated “IP”) refers to how well a product’s sealing keeps dirt and water from getting into the core of the product. The second number in the IP rating tells you how well the product repels or protects against moisture. The first number in the IP rating reveals the protection level against a solid object.
6. Installing Threads
Mounting choices are crucial because there are some situations where we need the laser projected beamlines to be reliable. While most laser levels may be installed on a standard tripod, several others need a unique mounting system. The mounting threads on a laser level should be as common as possible, so you can use a camera tripod to mount it.
7. How Will You Use A Laser Level?
Depending on what you plan to use the laser level for, your intended use is the most crucial factor. In this manner, the Dewalt laser levels of the aforementioned line laser brand assessments do not contradict one another.
Each has a specific set of uses, with newer models having more benefits than older ones. Before installing tiles or heating vents, single-beam lasers work best to keep walls and floors level.
Dual-beam lasers (simple horizontal and vertical beam lines) provide the advantages of single-beam lasers plus the ability to transmit points from the floor to the ceiling and make lighting installation straightforward.
Dual-beam lasers (cross-sectional beam line lasers) are most effective when used to lay out and assemble walls, doors, plumbing, and electrical systems. They can also be used to set tiles on walls. It is accurate for constructing a long row of cabinets and wall fixtures.
Three-beam lasers, also known as layout laser levels, offer all the advantages of horizontal and vertical beam lines and a third plumb line that verifies that walls and floors are square. It works well for cabinetry and projects requiring many measurements at 90 and 45 degrees.
Rotary and line lasers with laser detectors are the best options for working locations that are more than 50 feet long and well lit.
Tips on How To Operate a Laser Level
1. Install and calibrate the Laser Level
2. Place your laser level on a flat surface before using it. This is best done with a tripod.
3. For a manual level to function correctly, the plumb bubbles must be in the center. If the vial isn’t level, turn the screws on the side of the vial until it is. Use the laser level when it’s turned on.
4. You’ll need a few seconds to get it leveled out for an auto-leveling laser. The device may emit a blinking notification light if it is out of level. Adjusting the laser device is the only option in this situation. It’s time to put the level to work.
5. For outdoor tasks, use a laser detector to detect the beamlines if there’s no wall or surfaces where the laser beam can reflect. To learn how each laser device will indicate “leveling,” consult their user’s handbook.
The Use of a Laser Level For Hanging Cabinets
Step 1: Decide on the cabinet height you want to hang.
Step 2: Make a small identification mark on the wall to function as your point of reference for the topmost portion of the frame.
Step 3: Grab the cabinet and measure its size using a measuring tape. Adjust the mark position to include the external hangers if it contains a hanging mechanism.
Step 4: Set the laser level to horizontal alignment with the wall mark. Ensure that all marked points are uniformly level.
Step 5: Quantify the laser’s downward direction using the measurement you obtained in step three.
Step 6: Make a mark on the wall of the exact number of nails you want to install. (The number of nails is dependent on the size of the cabinet).
Step 7: Drive nails into the marks you’ve made.
Step 8: Placing the cabinet and using the laser to verify alignment at the top on solid ground, mount the laser level on a tripod.
Conclusion
Any construction toolkit must include a laser level. They are ideal for tasks that call for accuracy and preciseness. With the push of a button, you can now easily verify the alignment of furniture and cabinets or make your vacation side table.
If you’re an outstanding building expert, laser levels are an excellent long-term asset because you’ll often utilize them for various tasks. You may choose the best laser level for your cabinet using the advice in this article!
