It’s time to say goodbye to inaccurate measurements, eye-straining lasers, and low-end construction when you’ll work with a laser level for your ceiling.
When we say we bring you the best laser level for ceiling, we mean you can get your hands on something that has a self-leveling feature, fills up the entire room, has a great magnetic base, and a lot more.
But when it comes to paying the price, that’s where everyone halts. Guess what? We did all our homework to make sure you could find some of the top-rated products at an affordable price. Most importantly, they have every feature you need for your ultimate convenience.
It’s too bad that we couldn’t find more than 5 products, though. Now, we wanted to keep it real and didn’t want to mention the ones that have a high price tag. But hope the article helps you anyway.
Comparison Chart For Best Selling Laser Level for Ceiling
We have arrived at the main section of our post, where we are going to suggest our top 5 picks for the laser levels. So, follow this post as we are giving a brief and to-the-point review of these 5 products.
5 Best Drop Ceiling Installation Laser Level
DEWALT 12V MAX Line Laser, 360 Degree Line Laser
If you regularly work on professional projects, you may want something that will be longer-lasting and accurate, like this product. The DEWALT DW089LG is a top-tier choice for commercial-grade leveling.
For the price, there are three individual lasers with 360-degrees of angle that can fill up an entire room with lines of guides. You won’t have to worry the slightest for any flaws in measurements. This type of beam orientation is essential when it comes to installing a drop ceiling too.
The laser level boasts an IP65 rated water resistance along with a debris resistance feature. As a result, you can work with it on the toughest situations without batting an eye.
Thanks to the green beam laser technology that works with a rechargeable 12V battery. The green laser is up to four times brighter than the average red laser found in mid to budget range options.
The power tool can withstand extended usage, thanks to the over-molded casing that can take the abuse of a construction environment. Also, its locking pendulum can help to prevent damages to the internal components of this device.
Full-time pulse mode will ensure high visibility, and the range can be extended with a detector (sold separately). You can use an interchangeable 12V li-ion rechargeable battery from the same brand on the power tool.
Pros
- 360-degree angle fills up the entire room
- Water and debris resistant features ensure durability
- Rechargeable 12V battery gives you efficient performance
- Green laser means brighter light than red lasers
- 360-degree line lasers can fill up the entire room
- Great for outdoor visibility and extended usage
Cons
- Lasers sometimes struggle to hold levels
Short Verdict
If you are willing to invest in a reliable and long-lasting laser level, the DeWalt DW089LG is a solid contender. Although it’s costlier than many other options, it will be worth every penny!
Huepar 5011GPro – Self-leveling Laser Level with Rechargeable Li-ion Battery
The Huepar 5011G is a viable option for those who want to get the best performance at an affordable price. This laser level for ceiling is compact and portable, plus has mind-boggling features to mention.
Firstly, the battery on the Huepar can last up to ten hours of continuous operations. On top of that, this beast right here is completely dust and waterproof. To give you peace of mind, it comes with IP54 certification. As a result, you can use this level in hazardous work environments.
Let’s not forget the self-leveling mode, though. With this feature in its arsenal, the device can automatically level the light beams according to the surface. You can mount the device at a convenient angle for flexible operation.
The level is battery-friendly, thanks to the pulse mode included. The laser unit features an Osram green beam which ranges up to 85 feet of accuracy within ±1/9 Inches at 33 Feet. Pulse mode will make the laser beam dimmer to extend the battery life and reduce eye strain.
A magnetic base for pivoting attaches to the metal swinging base, which comes with the package. You can articulate the device around 360 degrees for more effortless operation. It will adjust front and back within 3.5cm to fit different angles.
Pros
- Bright green light for better visibility outdoors
- Pulse mode can extend battery life beyond usual
- Magnetic base allows precise attachment positioning
- Battery allows you to work up to 10 hours continuously
- Type-C charging port to allow ease of use
Cons
- Not rugged enough for heavy construction work
Short Verdict
Under $100, you are getting a sweet deal if you buy the Huepar 5011G. The Type-C connection, self-leveling feature, metal pivoting tripod, and powerful green lasers are everything you need in a 2021 laser level.
DEWALT Level, Cross Line Laser, Green (DW088CG)
Laser levels from Dewalt have become an industry standard for leveling on ceilings. They give more accurate information about the level surface and are less prone to errors than the competitors.
We’ve reviewed a DeWalt laser level before, and it has all the bells and whistles that make it a great choice. However, it had a high price point. So, if you want a budget-friendly option from the same manufacturer, the DeWalt DW088CG can be an excellent option.
It has a crosshair type laser that can cover a vast space. The device is IP54 certified. Meaning, it can withstand water and dust as you keep on working.
What makes it durable, you might want to ask. Well, thanks to the sturdy build with over-molded housing, the laser level talks sturdiness to the fullest. Besides, its 1-meter drop protection ensures that even if it falls from higher ground, it will survive a beating.
The patented magnetic bracket, on the other hand, makes sure that you can attach it to a metal surface. Full-time pulse mode allows a longer working time and reduces eye strain.
Also, it has a fantastic reach of up to 165 ft if used with a detector. The green laser technology gives you better visibility. You can even use it on a tripod, thanks to the ¼ inch thread mount.
With the self-leveling feature, the laser level adjusts the measurement all by itself without you doing a thing.
Pros
- Precisely accurate for distinct measurements
- IP54 rated for water and debris protection
- 100ft range for visibility in large-scale projects
- Integrated magnetic bracket for easy mounting
- Pulse mode for battery saving performance
Cons
- The lines are less clean than some of the other competitors
Short Verdict
DeWalt DW088CG is an excellent choice that doesn’t cost a fortune and will last for a very long time. With its long-range accuracy and IP rating, this power tool is one heck of a deal!
Firecore F113-XG – Self-leveling Laser Level, 65ft Green Beam Rechargeable Cross-Line Laser Tool
Here’s another budget-friendly option for the people who don’t want to spend a fortune on a laser level for ceiling. It has the features of an expensive laser level but won’t break the bank in terms of price.
The device comes with green laser technology, and the beam can reach up to 65ft. This laser level even has two cross lines of lasers that are highly accurate.
There is a self-leveling mode that can automatically micro-adjust the laser level with the surface. Also, type-C charging has made this level very versatile as you can directly plug it into a laptop or power bank and use it on the go.
The power source is a dual 1000mAh rechargeable battery so that you can use it for more than 5 hours at a stretch. You won’t have to worry about losing power while working between long sessions.
Since the product is IP55 certified, you won’t have any problem working in places with lots of dust. It’s completely dust and waterproof. This allows you to get the most out of it throughout the harsh conditions. The nylon pouch that it comes with can also provide a fair amount of safety during storage and transportation.
Pros
- IP55 rated with water and dust protection
- Rechargeable battery with type-C connectivity
- 3 ways mounting mechanism allows extreme flexibility
- Self-leveling mode for precise measurements
- Highly visible and accurate green laser for outdoors
Cons
- Battery life could be better
Short Verdict
This product has a versatile mounting mechanism, and the USB-C can come in handy in many situations. The self-leveling mode can adjust human errors of measurements and make your project perfect.
SKIL LL932201 360 degree Self-Leveling Crosshair Level 65ft
This ceiling laser level uses red lasers that can emit 360-degree lights that have the self-leveling feature. It’s a cheap option for 360-degree lines on both the X and Y-axis. If you get this laser level for your projects, you won’t have to worry about fatal flaws or breaking your bank.
Also, it has a rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which is a friendly alternative to loose pencil batteries. They don’t have to be replaced frequently. Micro USB charging ports ensure that you can charge it anytime.
The build of this laser level is pretty lightweight, which ensures portability. Red lasers are less harmful to the eyes, so you can consider this excellent tool for your work if you have problems using green lasers.
A tripod is included with the package, which is a great thing. And another great thing is you can select multiple angles and lock onto them if your project demands it. It lets you position the lines at any angle you want.
The device features a self-leveling mode which can make you leave the guesswork to it. It comes with a carry pouch which is pretty good and can protect your device on the go.
Pros
- Self-leveling feature for ultra-precise measurements
- Lightweight build for easy portability and convenience
- Rechargeable battery allowing long hours of working
- 360-degree vertical and horizontal lines for easy flexibility
Cons
- Red laser might not be preferable for outdoors
- Included tripod doesn’t get much height
Short Verdict
If you are a beginner DIY-er, you can do almost any moderate project with ease. The lines are accurate for at least 50ft, and the visibility is 65ft. So, this will suffice on regular worksites.
Buying Guide of Best Laser Level for Drop Ceiling
Before you go on to buy a laser level for your work, there are some specific features to know about. Hence, this section of the article will help you choose the right kind of laser level for your job.
When shopping for a laser level, you should consider these pointers. Let’s dive into the details.
Accuracy
A critical point of using the laser levels is the accuracy that comes with them. Even then, some laser levels are more accurate than others.
For professional-grade accuracy, you need the best leveling tools. A slight mistake can lead to an uneven surface, and this can make the overall ceiling unleveled. So, don’t think of money if you are considering accuracy first.
Mounting
The mounting mechanism is also essential when considering buying laser levels. Most laser levels have a magnetic mounting system and clamped mounting system. You should check the type that suits your line of work the most.
You can place most laser levels on a tripod that has the ¼” thread mount. The magnets can also help it get mounted on measurement rods and other metal surfaces. Most laser levels have a self-leveling mode so that they can micro-adjust the beams accurately up to a certain extent.
Laser Types
You can find two types of laser sensors being used in laser levels. The red lasers are the most common ones. These need less power to operate. But the main problem is with their lower visibility which is challenging for any outdoor project.
On many higher price variants of laser levels, green lasers are used. Although green lasers take more power to operate and are harmful to the eyes, they are more visible than red ones and can be easily used on outdoor projects.
Durability
If you are willing to buy any kind of tool with your hard-earned money, you should be concerned about its durability. Before purchasing a random laser level, check the reviews and the specifications first. Many power tools have an IP rating which determines the water and dust protection of that device.
If you use the laser level in various environmental conditions and want it to last through harsh worksites, check the product’s durability first.
Battery Life
Lasers need electric power to function, and that power comes from batteries. If you use the laser levels often, then battery life should be a concern for you.
Most laser levels function with AA or AAA batteries. Some laser levels have proprietary batteries which are rechargeable. Before buying a laser level, check the battery rating and the backup it can give in one go.
Newer laser levels have a USB Type-C port for charging so that it is convenient to charge at any time with any outlets. Even if your battery runs out, you can keep using the level by connecting it to a power bank or laptop via USB Type-C.
So, if you worry about the battery dying out, you may want to buy one with a USB Type-C connection.
How to Use a Laser Level on a Ceiling?
So, you have no idea how to use your new laser level on the ceiling, eh? Well, here are some steps you can follow.
- You need to set up the laser level onto some mounts like a tripod or magnetic mounts. The ground should be stable as well.
- Start the laser level and let it self-level if your device has the feature. You can also adjust the level manually.
- Identify a point on the room’s wall that you want to be the height of the ceiling. Now, place a measuring rod on that point and attach the laser level to it. You can install an L-channel and stick the laser level to it as well.
- Fourthly, adjust the laser up and down accordingly to get the perfect parallel line with the wall and mark up the line with chalk or ink.
- Finally, do the same procedure for other walls as well. If you have a 360-degree laser level, you can point the laser from the measuring rod on one wall to the other three walls. This will reduce the time and extra work.
You should remember something as you work with any kind of laser. These beams are harmful to the eyes. So, we suggest that you don’t look directly at the light source and use safety goggles to protect your eyes from prolonged laser exposure.
How to Install Drop Ceiling?
Installing a drop ceiling can be time-consuming but not that hard if you plan it beforehand. We will provide you with some major takeaways on installing a drop ceiling.
First, you’ll need L-channels, T-channels for the main structure. Then, you need drop ceiling tiles which are essential parts of your project. They will go over the T-channels. You are also going to need tin snips to cut the L-channels and T-channels whenever necessary.
Now, let’s point down the steps to install a drop ceiling.
Step-1: Design the Ceiling Grid First
You should whip up the graph paper to lay out the plans of the grids. Make a scale of conversion of your room’s perimeter and plot it on graph paper. Trust us; it will make your job a lot easier!
Step-2: Measure the Height to Install the L-channel
Adjust the L-channels’ height from the floor by using a laser level. We’ve reviewed some of the best laser levels for drop ceiling installation. Use any one of them and find the level at which you are going to install the L-channels.
Step 3: Install the T-channel
Now, you have to install the T-channels. Wires are needed for hanging the T-channels. To support the cables, wire-hanging eyelets are required. Keep an eye for the level when doing the job, as the wires hanging from the joists to support the T-channels might not be all the same length.
Step 4: Install Cross T-channels for the Tiles
Now you have to install the cross T- channels to make squares so that you can fit the tiles.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you level a drop ceiling grid?
The easiest way to level a drop ceiling grid is to use a laser level to establish a level ceiling plane.
What is the average cost to install a drop ceiling?
The average cost of drop ceiling installation is around $5 per square foot. That means for a 500 sqft space, the price will be about $2500 or more. Note that this amount is taken, including the labor cost, and it can vary from place to place.
What is the standard depth of a drop ceiling?
Drop ceiling’s height from the floor should be at least 7.5 feet, and the depth should be 3 inches beneath any plumbing line and 5 inches below any lighting.
What is the minimum clearance for a drop ceiling?
The minimum clearance for the drop ceiling grid should be 4 inches below the lowest joists. Note that it is a generalized measurement.
How much does it cost to install a drop ceiling?
If you plan to install a drop ceiling, the cost per square foot will be around $5.50 to up to $20, including the labor and material costs.
Final Words
All of the products in this article have been used by numerous users and are a good fit for any kind of leveling-related task. Our best pick would be the Huepar 5011GPro as it has all the best features and modern technology. However, if you like other products from the list, go for it as all of them are top-notch.
We hope that you will be able to make the best decision when you are in the market to buy a laser level for your drop ceiling installation project after reading this article. Remember to be safe while handling power tools!
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