Bosch Bluetooth Enabled Laser Measuring Tool
URCERI Laser Measure
Fluke Laser Distance Measure II Class
Accuracy is a necessary aspect of any construction work, but we all remember how much our parents (and their parents before them) struggled – often futilely – with the haphazard, didgeridoo twang of the tape measure. While they’re fun to play with, to extend and then snap back and whip your fingers with clumsily they aren’t as accurate as many tradesmen and home improvement hobbyists would like. The solution to this, it the best laser measuring tools, which provide all the accuracy you need in a compact, reliable, and totally-21st-Century way.
An electronic tape measure is one of the best tools you need for small jobs, big jobs, and jobs that fall somewhere in between. They’re versatile, durable, reliable, and so efficient they transform long dull jobs into ones you can complete in seconds. We’ve bigged them up a lot, so let’s see which ones measure up to your high expectations.
Best Laser Measuring Tool
1Bosch Bluetooth Enabled Laser Measuring Tool
Far range and better-than-your-eye accuracy is just part of what makes the Bosch Bluetooth Enabled Laser Distance Measure our top pick for the most awesome laser measuring tools. It’s cool, compact, and easy to use, while delivering a level of connectivity you’ll never get with even the most high-tech standard tape measure around.
Along with Bluetooth, you’ll find it packed full of other useful features. This includes convenient real-time measurement adjustment the closer or further you get, and an inclinometer to provide a variety of readings in different situations. The screen is bright and easy to read even in low light, which further solidifies it as an ideal tool for any project great or small. Keep it always handy in your tool box.
Long range measuring up to 165 feet
Accurate to 1/8-inch
Built-in inclinometer allows for advanced angles, mix/max, stake-out, and double indirect
Real-time measuring adjusts as you move closer or farther
- BrandBosch
- ModelGLM 50 C
- Weight3.52 ounces
Compact design fits in pocket
Durable casing and construction
Vibrant and easy to read colored screen
Short battery life
2 Leica DISTO D2 Bluetooth Laser Distance Measuring Tool
The Leica DISTO D2 Bluetooth Laser Distance Measure is another upper-range option ideal for serious contractors needing unlimited synchronization between their devices. The class II laser is strong, with optimum performance indoors, while the long distance means there are very few (if any) areas you can’t measure.
It’s comfortable to hold – if a little too small – with a rubber casing that protects you from corners while also making it resistant to drops and knocks, which is always likely in construction environments. The available apps – including Leica’s Disto Sketch or Magic Plan are intuitive and straightforward to bring your projects comfortably into the modern world. It is small enough so you can carry it in your tool belt.
Class II laser with 1mW output
Accurate to 1/16-inch
Measures up to 100 meter (330 feet)
Bluetooth capability allows easy data and measurement transfer
- BrandLeica
- Model838725
- Weight4 ounces
Pythagoras function for indirect height and width measurements
Intelligent automatic end piece for hard-to-reach corners
Multiple unit options for different measurements
Maybe too small for simple, one-handed use
3Tacklife Classic Laser Measuring Tool
If you’re after a laser distance measurer that’s no-nonsense and gets the job done with no hassle, the Tacklife Classic Laser Measure is something to look into. While there’s not the range of other options, you’ll still get a respectable 196 feet, and the 1/16-inch accuracy also ensures is one of the best you’ll find for such a price.
It also allows you to pick the ideal measurements to suit your project and it will remember this unit for next time to save you strolling through. It stores the previous 4 measurements for fast access, and does so with a variety of applications including distance, volume, area, and through everyone’s best friend from school: Pythagoras. Make sure you also check our guide to the best stud finders.
Measures up to 196 feet
Accurate to 1/16-inch
Various settings including automatic area/volume calculation and 30 groups data memory
Compact design fits comfortably in hand and pocket
- BrandTacklife
- ModelHD60
- Weight7.4 ounces
Durable carrying pouch ensures protection when on the move
Large LCD screen with backlight
Fast acting and intuitive
Sometimes tricky to switch to desired mode
4DeWalt Laser Measure Tool and Distance Meter
The DeWalt Laser Measure Tool and Distance Meter offers an excellent memory function capable of storing your previous 5 measurements which is just one aspect that makes it ideal for increasing productivity and efficiency whether on the job site or making home improvements.
The laser is clear when indoors, but you may struggle to see it over long distances when outside (unless in low-light), but the back-lit screen provides an ample data display with two line readings. Like all DeWalt products, it’s durable and boasts an IP65 casing to protect from dust and water, making it a laser distance meter that is built to perform. Hobbyists may be reluctant to pay the price, but the guaranteed performance is more than worth it. Our handy guide to the best magnetic wristband features more great products like this.
Measures up to 165 feet
Accurate to 1/16-inch
Memory function stores the last 5 measurements taken
Indirect height measurement with Pythagoras operation
- BrandDeWalt
- ModelDW03050
- Weight1.6 ounces
2-line back-lit display is easy to read
Durable and water-resistant IP65 casing
Improves efficiency for home improvements and large projects
Cannot change from feet to inches during measurement
5Bosch Compact Laser Distance Measure
Although not as advanced of a laser ruler than our best choice Bosch, this Bosch Compact Laser Distance Measure is easy to use but still provides high performance needed for accurate results. Like other Bosch options, it delivers real-time measuring that changes as you move to provide precise updates.
Its operation makes it perfect for simplifying large projects and is an ideal option if you don’t need Bluetooth connectivity or other fancy features. You can scroll through 4 measuring units (meters, feet, inches, and feet and inches). The back-lit screen is also useful in dark environments, but the numbers may be too small to read at a glance. Love this product? Check out our review of the best circular saw for our top picks.
Measures up to 120 feet
Accurate to 1/16-inch
Live measuring adjusts as you move closer or further
Backlight display is clear and easy to read even in low-light
- BrandBosch
- ModelGLM 35
- Weight4.8 ounces
6Fluke Laser Distance Measure II Class
With incredible accuracy and superbly versatile range, the Fluke Laser Distance Measure II Class is an easy decision for our premium pick. It’s easy to read, and easy to use, with a 4-line display giving you a generous amount of data at a glance. To ensure stability, you can fit it to a tripod to be absolutely sure you’ve gotten the correct reading.
What’s most special, though, is the inclination sensor, which provides height tracking and also indirect horizontal distance that works even when your line of sight is blocked, making it easier than ever to get accurate and reliable measurements even in hazardous and potentially dangerous areas. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best wood axes.
Measures up to 330 feet
Accurate to 1/25-inch
4-line display provides more data at a glance
Inclination sensor assists with leveling and obstructed distances
- BrandFluke
- Model424D
- Weight5.6 ounces
Tripod mode for hands-free setup and stable readings
Stores up to 20 complete displays
Backlight is ideal for low-light environments
Not as reliable when used outside
7DBPower Digital Laser Measure
The DBPower Digital Laser Measure boasts a massive battery life capable of taking up to 5,000 before the battery (which is included) needs replacing. It’s suitable for a variety of applications, boasting the features to measure distance, area, volume, and indirect Pythagoras (yeah, him again) with intuitive ease.
While you won’t get the accuracy of other (more expensive) options, this is still a convenient choice that’s compact enough to fit comfortably in your pocket. If you’re not concerned with paying for the most featureful and fancy device, this is a laser measure that comes at an excellent price perfect for hobbyists and those who work in small areas around the house. If you are a passionate DIYer check out our guide to the best band saws.
Measures up to 197 feet
Accurate to 1/13-inch
Additional features include area, volume, and continuous measurement
Multiple measurements offer versatility
- BrandDBPower
- ModelTD0425
- Weight5.6 ounces
8Stanley Laser Distance Measure
No Best list would be complete without a shoutout to one of the most iconic brands in tools and construction. The Stanley Laser Distance Measure. This durable and robust device is intuitive and easy to use, offering superb accuracy wherever you place it. Its 100 feet range is more than enough to handle a variety of environments and projects while the continuous measurement tracking delivers accurate data readings.
These data readings are fast and efficient, shaving precious seconds off your jobs to keep your productivity at a high level. You can use it to measure distance, area, and volume, but take care when pressing the buttons, as there is no haptic feedback, which is something to think about when first using it. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best safety glasses.
Measures up to 100 feet
Accurate to 3/32-inch
Continuous measurement tracking
Addition and subtraction is a convenient way to calculate the field
- BrandStanley
- ModelSTHT77138X
- Weight1.7 pounds
Intuitive design is easy and straightforward
Fast acting for speedy readings and efficiency
Lightweight for simple carrying in pocket
No haptic feedback when pressing a button
9Bosch Compact Blaze Laser Distance Measure
The Bosch Compact Blaze Laser Distance Measure is a lightweight and convenient solution for small jobs and measurements up to 65 feet. This range is useful for projects inside the home with a clear laser that delivers accuracy within 1/8-inch with real-time measurements to provide precise readings on every project.
Like any convenient laser tape measure, the back-lit display makes it easy to read in low-light, and it’s comfortable for one-handed and one-button operation to ensure controlled, stable measurements. You can use it for a variety of applications although it’s not ideal for outdoor use. If you’re planning renovations in the home and need reliable measurements without the hassle of a tape measure, this is something to consider. You may also like to check our guide to the best work lights.
Measures up to 65 feet
Accurate to 1/8-inch
Real-time measurement mode for walk-off and others
Backlit display for clear viewing even in low-light
- BrandBosch
- ModelGLM 20
- Weight4.8 ounces
Simple one-button operation
Versatile measurements for a variety of applications
Compact design fits in pocket
No area or volume calculation capability
10URCERI Laser Measure
Our final pick for the best laser measuring tools is the URCERI Laser Measure which isn’t just our final selection, it’s also our recommendation for the best value option. It’s 131 feet laser range is perfect for interior works, while the 5/64-inch accuracy ensure correct readings and successful DIY projects.
To make your life easier, it automatically calculate the area and volume of any room, and its self calibration means set up is straightforward and simple. The built-in spirit level helps guarantee a stable reading, while the clear screen makes it easy to read at a glance. While it doesn’t boast the myriad of features other options do, for the price, it performs marvelously. If you are looking to upgrade your tools, check out our guide to the best portable workbenches.
Measures up to 131 feet
Accurate to 5/64-inch
Automatically calculates area and volume
Self calibration, 30 units of history data, and addition and subtraction functions
- BrandURCERI
- Model0BD3E8ED-QJJUS-M
- Weight5.6 ounces
Compact and portable size
Multiple measuring units
Automatic laser power-off after 30 seconds
Only suitable for interior use
Laser Measuring Tool Buying Guide & FAQ
Features To Look For In Laser Measuring Tools
Before you make you decision on the best laser measuring tool, check out these special features to help you find the best option for you.
Range - The best laser tape measure will have a large range allowing you to measure any distance you want (within reason, anyway). However, this long range isn’t always necessary, and if you’re only doing indoor work, then there’s no need to spend the money on an option with a large distance when shorter ones would suffice.
Accuracy - Accuracy is perhaps the most important feature when doing an electronic distance measurement. The accuracies range from as minute as 1/16-inch to 5/64-inch (which even though it’s not as accurate as others is still very, very accurate.
If you work in construction or an industry where accuracy is paramount, it pays to invest in the most accurate laser measure around, but if you’re doing simple home projects, you can afford to be off by a few fractions of an inch, you can look into ‘less accurate’ options.
Measurement Modes - All laser measuring devices come with multiple measuring modes including distance and area, but the more advanced laser measures provide more measuring modes than your standard sub-$40 options.
These include continuous measuring, Pythagorean measurements, and also allow you to add or subtract readings to find the total distance or the distance in between two targets. If you need substantial features for large projects, having more modes will be very beneficial for you.
Ease of Use - A laser meter is not too difficult to use, but it’s advised you practice with it before taking it to the job. Most devices work with simple one-button operation and allow you to scroll through different modes and measuring units easily.
Battery Life - As with any electronic device, you must consider the battery life, and laser measures are energy efficient enough to ensure long-lasting performance over what is potentially years. Top quality products boast up to 10,000 readings in a single pack even with a bright back-lit screen. You’ll find they include batteries with your laser measure, and they are easy to change when they run down.
Display - A clear display on your digital laser measure is ideal as it is easy to read, even at a glance and in differently lit environments. Also consider the size of the screen as this can also affect how easy it is to read when in a hurry. Most laser measures will provide a 2-line display, but more advanced options have a 4-line for more data reading.
Protection Rating - As laser measures are typically used in construction environments, they need to be durable. The casing protects the parts from dust and water and are rated at IP65 usually, so while you can’t submerge them for long periods (and why would you?) they can survive splashes of water and still work correctly.
Memory - A memory function is perfect for speeding up your projects and makes it easy to reference previous measurements. While not all laser measures boast a memory function, those that do are ideal for saving you time on the job. You can find devices that store up to 10 previous measurements, but others will only hold 4 or 5.
Bluetooth Compatibility - Bluetooth compatibility is not essential in your electronic measuring device but like a large memory it is useful when working on large projects. You can sync the device with your smartphone or tablet to store data without writing it down.
Inside vs Outside Use - The best laser measuring tools deliver excellent performance both inside and outside, although if you’re working outside more often an outdoor laser measure is more appropriate. Not all laser measures are reliable when outside, especially over long distances as the brightness makes the laser difficult to see.
Consider what environment you’ll likely work in and make your laser measuring tool decision based on that to ensure you don’t struggle when faced with different locations.
Laser Measure Tips
To get the most from your laser measuring endeavors, we’ve put compiled a list of tips to ensure you’re the most accurate guy in the room.
- Get used to the functions before using it on the job
- Keep the laser area clean from dust
- Hold it steady or use a stable platform when measuring
- Use a viewfinder for long-distance measurements to ensure accuracy
- Always have a target for distances over 100 feet
Benefits Of Using Laser Distance Measurer
There are a variety of benefits when using the best laser measure which include:
- Accuracy
- Easy to use
- Compact design
- Durability
Laser Measuring Tool FAQ
Q: How does laser measure work?
A: Also known as a digital tape measure, laser measures work by emitting a laser pointed at the target and calculating the distance between said target and the device. As they operate with a single button push, they are faster than using a tape measure and a lot quieter, too.
Top quality laser measures provide a variety of modes for you to explore besides the standard area, distance, and volume. They also provide multiple measuring units and have memory functions for easy access and reference.
Q: Is the laser beam harmful to our eyes?
A: Because your digital laser measuring tape (typically) uses a Class II laser, you can be confident it is not harmful to your eyes. That being said, it’s still not advised to point the laser directly into your eye, and also to wear safety goggles to be sure.
Q: What are the best target surfaces for laser measuring tools?
A: The best target surfaces are those where you can clearly see the laser when pointed at it. This means using a solid target, not one that is transparent or see-through. Some laser measures are sold with targets, which are typically a white target on a red background. However, if you don’t have a supplied target, you can easily make one or trust your own.
While you don’t always need a target, they are useful to ensure you are measuring your room or area correctly.
Q: Can I measure a moving target with a laser measuring tools?
A: You can, but only if the target is moving slowly enough to keep the accuracy consistent, and the reading you get may not be the actual distance, but instead a mean calculation.
Q: Does the accuracy of the laser measuring tools remain constant over the distance?
A: Your laser measuring instrument will remain accurate only up to its set range. While you may still get a reading for measurements further than this range, you cannot rely on them to be accurate and if you take such readings, it could cause mistakes in your measurements.
Sources:
- 5 Tips for Using a Laser Tape Measure - DoItYourself
- A Buyers Guide to Laser Distance Measures - One Point Survey Equipment
- Top FAQs About Laser Tape Measure - Laser Level Hub