Are you a professional looking for a laser level that can spin 360 degrees for your next indoor and outdoor project? Then, a rotary laser level is what you need! Rotary laser level produces high levels of precision measurements 1/8th of an inch at 100ft or 1/16th of an inch at 100 ft.
Today, the rotary laser level is one of the most preferred choices among home builders and professional contractors. They make single dots instead of lines and spin at more than a thousand rotations per minute.
Getting the best might be challenging. So, we’ve written this guide to present you with the best rotary laser level for your next project!
Rotary Laser Level Buying Guide
Rotary laser levels are excellent for indoor projects. They shoot a 360 degrees beam either horizontally or vertically. A rotary laser level can also be used outdoors with a laser detector or a grde rod. The laser detector and grade rod make the rotary laser level great for excavation projects. Below is a complete guide on the rotary laser level:
1. Rotary Laser Level Rotation
When using a rotary level, you can establish a horizontal or vertical plane because the beams shoot in a 360 degrees direction. The beam of light is a single dot that rotates between 100rpm to 1000rpm per minute. This gives the appearance of a 360 chalk line when the rotary laser level is done. The light beam is created from the diode. In the case of a rotary laser level, the diode is a semiconductor that gives light when current goes through it.
2. Leveling Method of the Rotary Laser Level
There are three unique ways the rotary laser levels.
Manual Leveling
The operator levels the laser by adjusting the laser to bubble vials with manual leveling. The bubble vials are built into the laser. The problem with manual leveling is that the accuracy will be dependent on the quality of the level and the eye of the operator. Nevertheless, this is the least expensive laser level available.
Self Leveling
The self-leveling laser level means that the laser levels itself. It balances itself through the use of a pendulum and magnets. The accuracy of a self-leveling rotary laser is about an inch per 100 feet which is far better than a manual.
Electronic Self Leveling
Electronic self-leveling is also known as automatic self-leveling. Automatic self-leveling works by using a series of servo-motors. It used the servo motors to lift itself to a high level of accuracy. The accuracy level when the rotary laser level is used in this method is about 1/16th inch per 100 feet.
3. Rotary Laser Level Color Wavelength
The wavelength determines the color of the rotary level laser. The wavelength is determined by the diode, which is measured in nanometers. The green rotary level laser is brighter than the red laser. The green beam laser system is called the GreenBrite technology, and is about four hundred times brighter than the red laser. However, whether you choose red or green, you won’t be able to see the color of a rotary laser level outdoors. If you use the rotary laser level outside, you will need to use a laser detector.
4. The Intensity of the Rotary Laser Level
The level of laser light power determines the intensity of the laser level. The laser light power is measured in milliwatts. Usually, class one and class two are classified as low power, and they are in the range of 0.4mw to 1mw. The average laser level should be a classIIIA. The ClassIIIA has power between 1mw to 5mw. At the levels of 1mw and 5mw, your eyes are safe if it hits a laser. If you are purchasing a laser closer to 5mw, it will be bright and expensive. Lasers from 5mw to 500mw require control. ClassIV lasers have a power higher than 500mw and are very hazardous.
5. Working Range Of the Rotary Laser Level
The distance a rotary laser can go is often within a specified diameter, measured in feet. The rotary laser level is usually the center of the range. It can also be the distance in any direction, the radius, and half of the specified diameter. The range of the rotary level laser can be up to 2000 ft in diameter. This is achieved when a detector is outdoor. However, when used indoors, you can see the laser, and the distance can be more significant.
Guide on How to Calibrate a Rotary Laser Level
Step 1
Start by placing your manual rotary laser level on a flat surface. You can also use a tripod and put it in a room with two opposing walls.
Step 2
Put your rotary laser level about one inch from one of the walls and at least twenty inches from the other.
Step 3
Orient the laser along the axis of the vial. This should be the vial that you wish to level. The vial must be pointing to both walls.
Step 4
Check your unit, and you’ll see two screws. The screws correspond to each vial. You should turn the screws until the beam is level along both the axes. You will know its level when the two vials show bubbles resting between two black lines.
Step 5
The next step is to turn on the lasers. Then, mark where the lasers hit the closer and far wall.
Step 6
Then, move the laser about one inch from the far wall.
Step 7
Then, level the laser and proceed to adjust the height. Adjust the height till it hits the mark on the wall.
Step 8
Go to the near wall and check the difference between the first mark and the laser line. If the difference is less than or equal to your level of accuracy, then the rotary laser is appropriately calibrated. However, if the difference is significant, your unit needs further calibration, which will lead you to step 9.
Step 9
Go back to your unit and adjust the laser. Adjust the laser till it hits halfway between the two marks you made. The mark made between the two marks is called the true level.
Step 10
Remove the screw cap made for the vial. Then, adjust the vial to its level.
Step 11
After you have leveled your unit using the vial, you can then conclude that your unit is appropriately calibrated.
How to Utilize a Rotary Laser Level
Step 1
Now that you have calibrated your rotary laser level, the next step is to set it up for use. Set it up on an elevated flat surface. It is best to use a tripod for best results.
Step 2
Place the level on your chosen surface and then turn it on.
Step 3
If you are using a self-leveling device, you should give it some time to find a level. The process of finding a level will take your unit about a minute. However, if your unit is the type that uses manual leveling, refer to the user guide for more information.
Step 5
Keep a keen ear for the beep, which usually indicates a connection with the laser. The laser cannot be seen in broad daylight.
Step 6
Proceed to aim the rotary laser level at the wall or any other surface you want to find a level. Then, make the marks that will guide your installation.
Using a Receiver With the Rotary Laser Level
If you are working outdoors, you may need to use a receiver. This is because the beam cannot be seen outdoors. However, if you are working indoors, you may not need to use a receiver. But two factors will determine if you’ll need a receiver or not. These are the size of the room and the brightness.
If the distance is up to 20 meters, you should be able to see the laser lines. However, you will need a laser detector if the space is more than 20 meters. For the most part, rotary laser levels are used outdoors, so they’d usually come with laser receivers in their boxes.
How Does a Rotary Laser Level Work With a Receiver?
The workings of a rotary laser level along with a receiver are simple. The rotary level releases a beam that the receiver can detect. It is important to note that not all receivers are the same. So, before using a receiver, you should check if it’s compatible with your unit. The receivers are usually mounted on a stick and have indicators indicating the center of the laser line. So, there are visual indicators and sounds that a single operator will achieve.
Rotary Laser With Vertical or Horizontal Leveling
Most of the reputable rotary laser levels use horizontal leveling. When the laser starts up, it would by itself find a true level. It will also stop if it is disturbed or knocked during the process. This means that you won’t be getting any inaccurate readings. The expensive rotary laser levels use the vertical function for tasks such as frame leveling. It can also be used for plumb work and steel work.
The Difference Between Red and Green Rotary Laser Levels
The last few years have seen more people use the green beam lasers. Regarding accuracy, there isn’t much difference between the red and green beams. However, the green beam is preferred because of its high visibility. The human eye can see the green beam better and it is usually brighter. The downside to the green beam is that they cost more because the components of a green diode are traditionally more expensive.
If the laser you choose is for internal projects, then you should select a green beam. However, if the leveling jobs are going to be done outside, you should save costs and go for the red beam. This is because neither red nor green will be visible to your eyes outside.
Rotary Laser Levels and the Grading Function
A high-end rotary laser level will most likely enable grading. Both single and dual will be available on high-end rotary levels. This makes them excellent for water drainage. Single grades allow for slopes on one side of the axis, and the dual allows for two slopes. If you are required to do compound grades, invest in a dual-grade rotary laser level.
Rotary Laser Levels With Scan Modes
The scan mode is one of the best features found on a premium rotary laser level. This allows for the beam to rotate in the selected working area. When you narrow the angle of the laser, the beam will become more visible because it is more concentrated. It is also great for busy work sites. This would limit laser exposure to the area you are working on.
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Rotary Laser Level
1. Leveling
Before you choose a rotary laser level, you should first determine if you want a self-leveling or manual leveling rotary laser level. However, you should select a self-leveling rotary laser. Self-leveling units use the pendulum and magnets to determine the level. When the laser level is placed on a flat surface, the pendulum helps find the leveling level.
2. Mounting
When choosing a rotary laser level, it is best to choose the one that lets you work hands-free. Many of the best rotary laser levels use different amounts to achieve a hands-free position. If your budget can’t afford one with a tripod, you can poke holes into the drywall to stabilize your unit.
3. Accuracy
An excellent rotary laser level should have a high accuracy level. Accuracy is essential for you to carry out your work in an effective manner. A good model should have ½ deviation at thirty feet. The right deviation will give you outstanding results. A suitable self-leveling laser will provide the best laser line.
The 9 Best Rotary Laser Level
1. Johnson Level And Tool 99-006k Self Leveling Rotary
The Johnson Level comes with a turnkey solution. It comes with a soft carrying case and a LED one-side detector. It also has a thirteen-inch grade rod, a freestanding target, and a drop ceiling bracket. The Johnson Level is great for leveling platforms and for aligning fence posts. It has different rotation speeds such as 200, 400, and 600rpm. It is perfect for vertical and horizontal usage. It can be used vertically for the layout of walls or floors and for installing dry tracks. On the other hand, it can be used horizontally for wainscoting installation, leveling cabinets, and drop ceiling installation.
2. Huepar Electronic Self-Leveling Rotary Laser Level Kit -360 Horizontal Laser Beam Interior
The heupar rotary laser level has wide applications. It features self-leveling, and it projects a 360 Horizontal laser beam. The horizontal can be used to install wainscoting or leveling cabinets. The horizontal laser beam also works both for indoor and outdoor usage. It is a great laser tool both for DIYers and those working on large construction projects. The electronic horizontal self-leveling increases the heupar level to 5° in five seconds.
When the heupar is turned on vibrate mode, it can ignore windy or other conditions that cause it to vibrate.
3. DeWALT Laser Level Kit, Rotary With Laser Detector
The Dewalt laser level kit comes with horizontal self-leveling. The flat self-level automatically aligns itself with the Dewalt laser level. This allows the Dewalt laser level to center automatically. It is equipped with a leveling vial which can be used for manual leveling in the vertical mode. The rotary head is protected, and it comes with a weatherproof design. The laser level delivers interior and exterior durability when the Dewalt is used on a job site. It comes with a digital laser detector which extends its range to 600 feet.
4. Spectra Precision LL300N-2 Laser Level
The spectra precision is high-speed and easy to set up. It has few mechanical parts, and its automatic leveling is a plus. There is an easy, one-push button. The ease of using the control means that anyone can easily use the unit without formal training. It comes with a complete leveling crew and a tripod. The accessories come in a hard-shelled carrying case. The design of the spectra is very rugged with hard hat rotary protection. The durability means that the unit can survive drops and has IP66 water and dust resistance.
5. Topcon RL-H5A Horizontal Self Leveling Rotary Laser with LX80 Detector
The Topcon RL-H5A rotary laser is a multi-purpose rotary laser. It can be used for grading, excavation, and general construction. It comes with IP66 water and dust resistance. It can withstand dust, small rainfalls, and even torrential downpour. It is straightforward to use and comes with electronic self-leveling. The button is simply a push and start. Once the button is pushed, the unit will immediately start working. When the unit is disturbed while it is working, the RL-H5A will automatically relevel itself. The Topcon RL-H5A is long-range with high accuracy. It can shoot up to elevations of 800m.
6. Spectra Precision LL500 Self-Leveling Laser Level with HL700 Receiver
The spectra precision LL500 has a laser transmitter. It also has a digital head-out receiver and a C70 rod clamp. The unit is self-leveling, and it comes with a level shut-off. This maintains a high level of accuracy and also minimizes the errors. The accuracy is very high. The accuracy is 1/16 per 100 ft (1.5 mm per 30 m). It also has a temperature compensation that helps the unit provide accuracy even in bad conditions. It has an extended range of over 500m and works over a large diameter. This reduces the need for multiple setups on a large job site.
7. Johnson Level & Tool 99-028K Electronic Self-Leveling Dual Slope Horizontal
The Johnson rotary Level is very accurate and designed for indoor and outdoor usage. It comes with vertical leveling, which makes it perfect for aligning posts. It can also be used indoors to lay out walls and floors. The unit comes with a programmable design. This means that the self-level digital laser comes with a programmable dual-slope function. The laser kit comes with a visual and audible security alarm, making the unit secure and accurate.
8. BOSCH REVOLVE900 GRL900-20HVK Exterior 1000ft Range Horizontal/Vertical Self-Leveling
When you purchase the Bosch revolve900, you get a complete kit. The kit includes a GRL900-20HVK rotary laser, a receiver, a head unit case, and remote control. It can be used for multiple horizontal applications. The numerous horizontal applications include site preparation, staking out for concrete pouring, and residential projects. While it can be used for horizontal applications, it can also be used for vertical applications. It provides a 90 degrees point for wall layout, framing windows, and door installation.
9. Iglobalbuy Automatic Electronic Self-Leveling Rotary Rotating Red Laser Level Kit 500M
The Iglobalbuy is a very durable rotary laser level. It also has a 500m beam visibility. It can be rotated 360 degrees even while stable. It has four rotational speeds of 60,120,300 and 600rpm. It has a high-impact composite housing that protects it from dust and water. The Iglobalbuy is widely used indoors and outdoors for cutting and filling, leveling, and settling foundations. All the functions of the Iglobalbuy can be controlled using a remote control. The unit comes in a super-strong black carry case with buffer material which stops the unit from bumping while being carried.
Accuracy Level
The accuracy level of the rotary level laser is highly dependent on the unit’s leveling. The self-leveling is the most accurate. The accuracy of a self-leveling rotary laser is about an inch per 100 feet which is better than the accuracy of manual leveling.
Ease of Use
The rotary laser level is easy to use if you buy high-end units. For example, the Topcon RL-H5A Horizontal Self-Leveling Rotary Laser with LX80 Detector operates at the push of a button. Once the button is pushed, the unit automatically begins to check the level.
Mounting Capability
A rotary laser level can either be mounted on a flat slope or on a tripod stand. It is usually advisable to mount with a tripod because it provides more stability. However, good models of the rotary level laser come with features that allow them to stop leveling even when disturbed.
Final Verdict
Your construction project will go so much faster with the rotary laser level. There are many models of rotary level laser, and you can choose based on your budget. If you want a model with very high rotational speeds, go for the Iglobalbuy Automatic Electronic Self-Leveling Rotary Rotating Red Laser Level Kit 500M. We hope this guide makes your next buy much easier!
