By Timothy Dale and Tom Scalisi | Updated Dec 17, 2023 4:47 PM
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Laser distance measures use a laser and an optical sensor to determine the distance between two surfaces to find the height of a room, the length of a stairway, or other helpful measurements. With this tool, you won’t have to rely on a flexible metal tape measure. We put some of the best laser distance measures through the paces to test how accurately they measure, noting their features, to compile this list of the best laser measures for both DIYers and pros.
After lining up the laser distance measure with the surface on the other end of the room, this tool calculates the measurement almost instantly. Many laser measuring tools also provide area or volume measurements, as well as an impressive accuracy range that can measure to within ⅛, 1/16, or even 1/32 inch.
To help you find the best laser tape measure, our hands-on testing of some of the top models on the market included putting each of the following through a series of measures. We evaluated other features like display, ease of use, and included apps to come up with this list of top picks by category.
The number of measurements we pulled during testing numbered well into the hundreds. We tested length, area, volume, level, and every other function we could—many times.
The first test included taking a measurement across three rooms, from the front door to the back of the house. Next, we used the laser measures to calculate the square footage of a room. We pulled each measurement from the exact same spots to ensure the laser measures were given a fair chance. Each measure from the laser measures that made our list proved to be accurate. After testing area measurements, we went with the volume test, which these models also passed.
For laser measures with extra features like Bluetooth or an extended range, we waited until the end of the test to dig in and see how they worked. We downloaded apps, connected our phones, and used the long-range features on nearby buildings to get a full scope of what these models could do.
There are a lot of details to consider when selecting the right laser measure for the job. To help shoppers find their best option in a laser distance measure, below are some of the best product picks based on quality, price, and the considerations outlined above. We performed hands-on testing with these models to ensure they met our expectations, and eliminated those that did not.
This compact laser distance measure from Bosch travels in a pocket or bag and gathers measurements at distances of up to 165 feet. The device automatically takes measurements as the user moves it around, accurately measuring to within 1/16 inch while providing information for length, area, and volume. It has an easy-to-use control keypad and a bold color display with large backlit text for easy reading in dim or lightless conditions.
With its Bluetooth connectivity, this laser distance measurer shares information wirelessly with a phone, while the free Bosch app gives users the ability to document measurements and create floor plans. This device also has a soft slip-resistant grip on its body to help protect it from drops and impact damage.
The Bosch was an absolute joy to use during testing. First, it was the most compact of all the models in the test, yet it offered more features than almost any of them. All of the functions, including the built-in level, were accurate. It took a few minutes to understand how it integrates with the MeasureOn app, but transferring measurements was very easy. Also, the bottom of the GLM50C is completely flat, which made it easier to line up measurements. The only complaint we had is that the holster the GLM50C comes with has a very small belt loop that won’t fit comfortably over tool belts or wider leather belts.
Get the Bosch GLM50C laser measure at Amazon.
Portability and affordability are important considerations for some folks, and this model offers both. The Atolla device is compact enough to fit comfortably in a pocket, a tool box, or a bag, and is affordable enough that nearly any DIYer will want to consider it. Its adjustable wrist strap can be set to the ideal size to ensure that it doesn’t slip off the user’s wrist.
The Atolla water-resistant laser distance meter can measure accurately to within 1/16 inch up to a maximum distance of 196 feet. It features several measurement modes, including single measurement, continuous measurement, area, distance, volume, and Pythagorean mode. The backlit LCD screen is easy to see, and the built-in level helps properly align the laser with the targeted point in the distance.
The Atolla laser distance meter isn’t perfect by any stretch of the imagination, but it proved to be an excellent value during testing. First, the bottom isn’t completely flat, so it does rock a bit when trying to get a measurement. Also, the laser wasn’t straight. But compared to the other models, neither issue affected its accuracy. It offers most of the same calculations, including length, area, and volume. We also liked that it’s relatively compact for such a budget-minded laser measure.
Get the Atolla laser measure at Amazon.
This outdoor laser measure from Bosch has a robust, reinforced glass screen that’s anti-scratch, glare-resistant, and shatter-resistant, which protects it and makes it easier to read the measurement results in bright light. It has several measurement options as well as built-in data storage capable of keeping the last 50 measurements and more than 600 images.
Bluetooth connectivity allows users to transmit collected measurements wirelessly through the free Bosch app, which can also create custom blueprints. This device can measure accurately to within 1/16 inch with a maximum distance of up to 400 feet. It also has a built-in camera with an adjustable zoom so users can locate the laser at a long distance when outdoors, despite the light from the sun.
During testing, the GLM400CL appeared to have everything one could want from a laser measure. For one, the 400-foot range is excellent for outdoor calculations. The menu is fully digital, so swapping between area, volume, distance, stakeout, and other settings is simple. Also, the video viewfinder is incredibly useful in pulling measurements from long distances. Unfortunately, every button press emits a beep, and this model’s beep drove my dog (who often works with me) up a wall. Fortunately, for both my pooch and myself, I was able to turn it off (30 beeps later).
Get the Bosch Blaze laser measure at Amazon, DK Hardware, or Ace Tool.
Anyone looking for a compact laser measure that they can keep in a pocket or a tool belt will want to give the Leica Disto E7100i some serious consideration. This model has a measuring range of up to 200 feet (with a claim of 1/16-inch accuracy at that distance). It comes with a detachable pocket clip as well as Bluetooth connectivity.
Also, the Disto E7100i features a min/max function that allows the user to sweep the laser measure across a corner while it records only the longest measurement, offering extreme accuracy. It also has length and area measurements.
Testing proved that the Leica is clearly a precise machine; its compact design does not affect its accuracy. We liked the pocket clip that can grip onto the lip of a tool bag, and it detaches easily. The bottom of this model is dead flat, so placing it against a surface and getting a quick, accurate measurement was a breeze. The only cons were that, despite the product description, we could not find a “volume” mode on this laser. Also, the Disto Plan app was a little frustrating to use; it wasn’t as easy to swap between metric and imperial measurements as it was on the actual laser.
Get the Leica Disto E7100i laser measure at Amazon or The Home Depot.
This DeWaltlaser measuring tool is an option for professionals who need an easy-to-use device to take quick measurements of 100 feet or less. It has only five buttons to learn, and the entire device is covered in a thick, durable protective cover to help keep the laser measure safe from scratches and impact damage if it’s dropped.
The device can take and send measurement data through an active Bluetooth connection. The brand’s Tool Connect app collects and stores data for use in creating new projects like flooring or painting. It also can be used to export the project, saving pros time and effort that might otherwise include drawing a plan by hand.
The reason why the DeWalt laser distance meter is the best for pros truly boils down to its app. Pros who use the DeWalt Tool Connect app won’t have to add an additional app or confuse matters with another interface, and that’s a real “pro.” It was also the best app in the test, as it was the easiest to use once it was set up. The laser was simple to use, with very few buttons and easy functionality (despite having more functions than some more expensive models). We also like that it’s yellow, so it is harder to misplace. The only issue we had is that the bottom is not flat, so it wobbles quite a bit when held against a surface.
Read our full review: DeWalt Tool Connect 100-Foot Laser Distance Measurer
Get the DeWalt laser measure at Amazon or Acme Tools.
When it comes to convenient design, it’s hard to beat the Lexivon 2-in-1 digital laser tape measure. This model has a built-in tape measure, allowing the user to pull measurements up to 16 feet. But, should the user want a faster method or a longer measurement, the laser measure can handle them up to 130 feet.
There aren’t many other bells and whistles to the Lexivon tape measure, but that’s part of its beauty. Its one-button design makes it easy to use, and it was just as accurate as other models. The digital display was very easy to read as well, despite this being a relatively affordable and simple tool. Our only complaint about this distance and tape measure is that it doesn’t have any function other than length, so volume, area, and angled measurements require old-school paper-and-pencil calculations.
Get the Lexivon laser measure at Amazon.
When it comes to long measurements, Leica’s Disto D2 laser distance measure might be the tool for the job. This laser measure features a maximum measuring range of 330 feet, so it is as suitable for outdoors as it is for indoor work.
The Leica Disto D2 has plenty of functionality as well, offering length, area, volume, and Pythagorean functions. It also connects to the Leica Disto Plan app through Bluetooth. The backlit LED display is easy to read.
During testing, the Leica Disto D2 was accurate and easy to use. We did struggle with a few of the settings (the Pythagorean theory setting, specifically), but the instructions cleared up the questions. Also, the backlit display on this Leica Disto D2 was very clear, and the dead-flat bottom made grabbing a quick measurement a breeze. Again, the Leica Disto Plan app was a little more difficult to use than the actual laser, but connecting the laser measure to a phone was very easy.
Get the Leica Disto D2 laser measure at Amazon or The Home Depot.
The Bosch GLM165-25G Blaze Green-Beam laser measure has what it takes to replace any other outdoor laser level. It has a green laser beam that’s easy to see in daylight (something red lasers don’t always excel at) as well as a weather-, water-, and dust-resistant exterior to protect it from tough jobsite conditions.
The Bosch has a number of features and functions that make it a solid choice. First, it has a maximum range of 165 feet, making it useful for most outdoor projects. It also has an audible beep, auto shutoff, a backlit display, and battery-save mode. It’s compatible with a tripod and its functions include distance, continuous measure, area, volume, Pythagorean theorem, wall area, stakeout, and leveling. It even allows the user to choose if they want to round and what fraction they’d like to round to for faster measurements: ½, ¼, ⅛, 1/16, or 1/32 of an inch.
While the Bosch was great indoors, we found the bright green laser was an excellent touch for outdoor projects. It’s easier to see in daylight, which allowed us to get measurements faster and ultimately helped us save more battery life. It was very easy to use, though we did think the digits on the screen were a little difficult to see. It also has a huge memory, storing so many measurements that we couldn’t even remember what they were. Our only complaint, and we had to dig for one here, is that it doesn’t have rechargeable batteries, but that’s the case for several other laser levels in this list as well.
Get the Bosch Green-Beam laser measure at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Ace Tool.
The Klein Tools compact laser distance measure is worth considering for anyone looking for a lightweight, pocket-ready laser measure. This tool weighs just 2.3 ounces, so it can sit easily in a shirt or vest pocket, or it can be clipped to a pants pocket without weighing the user down. And despite its size, it has a range of up to 100 feet.
This laser measure is simple to use. It has one button that toggles through the different settings: beep or silent, auto shutoff, measure, or continuous measure. It doesn’t do any complicated functions like Pythagorean calculations, however, but it does store the last three measurements right on the backlit screen.
We found the beauty of the Klein Tools compact laser distance measure in its simplicity. It doesn’t have a bunch of buttons or complicated functions, so we could simply take it out, grab a measurement, and move on. It’s also weather- and dust-resistant, so it should hold up to some basic outdoor hazards. We found the small backlit screen was actually quite easy to see as well. But if users need area or volume numbers, they’ll want to bring a pen and paper as this laser measure doesn’t offer anything but distance measuring.
Get the Klein Tools laser measure at Amazon, Lowe’s, or The Home Depot.
Best Function10 Mileseey Outdoor Laser Distance Meter With Camera Photo: amazon.com SEE IT Product Specs Range: 330 feetDisplay: Backlit LED and picture displayConnectivity: Bluetooth ProsIt has an incredible number of functions and measurements to useThe built-in camera helps keep track of what each measurement representsIncludes carrying case and recharging cord ConsThe functions are great but their labeling doesn’t make senseWe weren’t able to get it to link to our Bluetooth When it comes to functions, the Mileseey 330-foot laser might take the cake. This model’s functions include distance, volume, area, several Pythagorean theorem calculations, angles, round area and volume, stakeout, and more. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in camera, and an auto-rotate display. The Mileseey comes with a carrying case as well as a recharging cord. It’s weather- and dust-resistant, features tripod compatibility, and has a large picture display that functions with the camera. One of us tested a Mileseey laser measure in the past, and to be honest, we hated it. It was inaccurate and clunky. Luckily, Mileseey solved the accuracy problem, because this model is excellent. We found the sheer number of calculations available meant we’d probably never need a pen and paper or calculator to measure large objects of all shapes and sizes again. Also, the camera helped us keep track of what each measurement represents. But, it’s still a little clunky. None of the icons make sense, so cycling through them is somewhat hit or miss. Also, we could not get the Bluetooth to connect to our phone, and even the Mileseey product videos hint that it might not work with all devices. Get the Mileseey laser measure at Amazon.
When it comes to functions, the Mileseey 330-foot laser might take the cake. This model’s functions include distance, volume, area, several Pythagorean theorem calculations, angles, round area and volume, stakeout, and more. It also features Bluetooth connectivity, a built-in camera, and an auto-rotate display.
The Mileseey comes with a carrying case as well as a recharging cord. It’s weather- and dust-resistant, features tripod compatibility, and has a large picture display that functions with the camera.
One of us tested a Mileseey laser measure in the past, and to be honest, we hated it. It was inaccurate and clunky. Luckily, Mileseey solved the accuracy problem, because this model is excellent. We found the sheer number of calculations available meant we’d probably never need a pen and paper or calculator to measure large objects of all shapes and sizes again. Also, the camera helped us keep track of what each measurement represents.
But, it’s still a little clunky. None of the icons make sense, so cycling through them is somewhat hit or miss. Also, we could not get the Bluetooth to connect to our phone, and even the Mileseey product videos hint that it might not work with all devices.
Get the Mileseey laser measure at Amazon.
There are many choices when it comes to laser distance measures for DIYers and professionals. To help weed through the options, consider a few key features when comparing laser measuring devices since different characteristics are important for different types of projects. The following factors may help you find the right tool for the job.
While most laser tape measures are only suited for measuring distance indoors, there are some products that are specifically for outdoor use. Most outdoor models can measure longer distances, but the laser light of the measure doesn’t change in any way. However, the bodies of outdoor models need to be able to stand up to rain, snow, and fluctuating temperature extremes.
This weather resistance helps prevent the interior of the tool from becoming damaged by moisture buildup, and the tightly sealed case helps keep out dust. However, the upgraded case comes at a cost, so users can expect to pay more for an outdoor laser measure.
The accuracy and measurement range are typically listed together, with most products claiming an average accuracy rating to within ⅛ inch at a distance of 50 feet. However, some laser distance measures can accurately measure much longer distances, up to 320 feet. Just remember that as the distance increases, accuracy can begin to falter.
Laser measures rated for use at long distances often have a higher degree of accuracy, with many products capable of accurately measuring to within 1.6 millimeters or 1/16 inch. This increase in accuracy is often due to a stronger laser, which usually comes with a higher price tag.
When selecting a laser distance measurer, consider the tool’s various functions that may help make a project as efficient and successful as possible. Those who have no experience using a laser distance measure might want to consider a model with detailed operating instructions or one with very basic functionality.
A laser measure’s basic job is to simply measure the distance between two points, but some measurers can perform additional specialized functions:
Most laser measuring tools operate with the push of a button, though some provide a continuous or an automatic measurement while the operator moves around to find the ideal angle without needing to take multiple measurements. This is useful for quickly measuring the length, width, and height of a room.
A bright display with text that’s easy to read in dim lighting is an integral feature of a laser distance measurer. If the display is backlit, the text is easier to see in both direct sunlight and low-light conditions.
Laser measuring devices may display only a few numbers to indicate the distance and the unit of measurement. Or, the displays may be more complex, featuring multiple menus, functionalities, and accuracy settings. Some even have rotating screens to make it easier to see the readings from any position.
The best laser tape measure is often equipped with a continuous measure feature and the ability to transfer data from the device to a computer; this is handy for multiple measurements like stairway length and riser heights, for example. Upgraded models have an extended measuring range, and they may be capable of indirect measurement with the Pythagorean measurement function, keeping all information stored safely on the device.
Laser measuring tools might also come with Bluetooth connectivity, which allows the stored measurements to be transferred wirelessly to a smartphone or tablet, saving time and effort. Just make sure to follow the manufacturer’s directions to properly connect the device.
The best laser measuring tools aren’t just about the basics. They can include a range of additional features to help make the laser measure easier to use and more convenient for users, including a battery life indicator, sound alerts, automatic shutoff, and holsters.
Adding a laser distance measure to your tool box or workshop helps make many home renovation projects easier to complete. A laser measurer can produce an accurate measurement at long distances, unlike a metal tape measure that may slip or sag if not properly supported at both ends.
Not only do these devices deliver better accuracy than regular tape measures, but they also can be recalibrated. Many laser distance measures provide the ability to measure area, volume, or even triangular shapes. Plus, their compact size makes them easy to carry, store, and use.
Laser measuring tools are impressive tools that can make it easier to take long measurements. However, as the distance between objects increases, any slight alteration to the laser measure can change the measurement. To help ensure that the laser measure is lined up properly, use a piece of painter’s tape or a sticky note as a target.
Outdoor measurements with a laser measure can also be difficult because the laser can get lost in bright sunlight, making it hard to see if it’s properly aligned. Some laser measures have a built-in viewfinder or an external viewfinder to help users locate the laser and line it up.
After using the laser measure, make sure to properly clean it. These tools rely on the uninterrupted beam of light, so any dirt or debris on the tool can block a portion of the laser, reducing the accuracy of the tool.
Before deciding on a new laser distance measure, you may have a few lingering questions. The following answers to some frequently asked questions may help you make a more informed decision about which model is right for you.
A laser measure essentially emits light in a concentrated beam, then measures the time it takes for the light to hit an object and reflect back to the laser measure. Through this process, it is able to determine the distance between the laser measure and the object it’s pointed toward.
A traditional tape measure is a better option for short measurements because it takes less time to set up, but there are hybrid laser measures that incorporate a traditional tape measure into the laser measure, providing users with both tools.
An average laser distance measurer is capable of accurately measuring a distance to within ⅛ inch or even 1/16 inch at a distance of 50 feet.
Yes, laser measuring tools can be used outside, but bright sunlight can impair the ability to see the laser dot. Moreover, other factors can interfere with the reading, such as falling leaves or blowing dust and debris. Consider using a telescopic optical viewfinder, a tripod, or a targeting camera for better results outdoors.
To calibrate a laser distance measurer, refer to the manufacturer’s guidelines. Each model may have a different calibration method, such as a detailed manual process or an automatic process. Some laser measures may require professional calibration.
Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.
Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.
Tom Scalisi is a full-time DIY and construction writer for many of the largest websites in the industry, including BobVila.com, This Old House, Family Handyman, and Forbes. He also owns and operates a pest control blog, RiddaBugs.com.
Additional research provided by Timothy Dale.
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