When carrying out repairs, a laser rangefinder is often used. It allows you to remotely measure the exact distance between all kinds of objects and calculate various room parameters. With such a device, there is no need to use an outdated tape measure, which produces a significant error during use. To purchase a high-quality, high-precision device for your own needs, you need to familiarize yourself with its most popular models and carefully study their characteristics.
Laser rangefinder is a high-precision device designed for measuring linear distances, volumes and areas Source 220-volt.ru
Types and purpose
All existing laser rangefinders are divided into ordinary household and professional ones. Simple ones are used for short- and medium-range measurements (within 50 m) and are equipped with limited functionality. The latter are designed for distances of up to two hundred meters and have a huge number of functions that make it easy to cope with many difficult tasks. When choosing a laser rangefinder, it is extremely important to take into account the area of its future use and design features.
According to the scope of application, laser roulettes are:
- industrial;
- sports;
- military;
- construction;
- for fishing and hunting;
- geodetic.
According to the method of operation, such measuring instruments are divided into pulse (have a powerful laser, built-in timer) and phase (less accurate, but cheaper).
The principle of operation of the rangefinder: the emitter releases a pulse of light, which reaches the surface, is reflected and returns, the distance is determined by the time of passage of the light and its speed. Source mebpilot.ru
The best professional laser rangefinders
Models of this type are capable of such complex mathematical calculations as calculating the height of an inaccessible segment, the length of a curved line, the area of a triangle, etc.
They are the most expensive, equipped with lasers of the first power class, sights with a magnification factor of more than 10, and take measurements at a distance of 80 meters.
Control XP3 Pro
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
93%
buyers recommend this product
The main features of the model include a wide range of functions and resistance to damage.
The laser roulette has built-in memory and Bluetooth support, which allows you to transfer the received data to a PC or smartphone.
The device complies with IP54 protection class, has a shock-resistant housing and can be stored at temperatures down to -20 ° C.
The measurement range is up to 120 m. The device also has the functions of measuring angles, slopes, and can find the area of a triangle and trapezoid.
Advantages:
- long operating range;
- protection from external influences;
- Bluetooth support;
- 4 reference points;
- convenient control.
Flaws:
- energy-intensive.
Condtrol XP3 Pro is useful when constructing large-scale projects and for accurately calculating slopes. The wide screen and intuitive interface guarantee ease of use even for an inexperienced worker.
Leica Disto X310
5.0
★★★★★
editorial assessment
100%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The model is equipped with an informative four-line screen and offers convenient control. Each measuring function has its own button. This allows you to quickly switch between modes to solve different problems.
The maximum measurement range is 120 meters, the error is no more than 1 mm. The device is capable of measuring internal corners, crevices, edges, determining the area and volume of a room, and indirect heights.
Advantages:
- economical energy consumption;
- information screen;
- convenient control;
- high measurement accuracy;
- long operating range.
Flaws:
- high price.
Leica Disto is resistant to extreme temperatures, dirt and immersion in water. An excellent choice for efficient work in the most difficult conditions.
Gross Kompakt 70
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
88%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The model has the function of measuring length at two points. This allows you to quickly make accurate calculations at a large distance from the object.
Additional features of the device include delayed measurement modes, conversion of the obtained values to other SI units, and memory for the last 20 measurements.
Ease of use of the device is ensured by its small dimensions, display backlighting in the dark, auto-shutdown, and the ability to mount the rangefinder on a tripod.
Advantages:
- compactness;
- ample opportunities;
- error - up to 1.5 mm;
- battery saving.
Flaws:
- poor visibility of the laser at long distances.
Gross Kompakt 70 will be useful in roofing or installation work, geodetic research. Multifunctionality and measurement accuracy will significantly increase the efficiency of problem solving.
Metabo LD 60
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
92%
buyers recommend this product
Ease of use of the device is ensured by its light weight, wide screen, as well as the ability to change the measurement frequency and switch the reference point to the front or back side of the case.
On one battery charge, the device produces up to 5000 measurements. In addition to determining the distance to a point, the laser tape measure performs functions such as calculating area and volume, object length, Pythagoras mode and tracking.
Advantages:
- multifunctionality;
- accuracy of measurements;
- light weight;
- simple controls.
Flaws:
- instability to moisture and dust.
Metabo LD 60 is a universal device. Its capabilities allow it to solve the most complex measurement tasks, and its affordable price sets it apart from its analogues.
Which laser rangefinder is better to buy?
Laser tape measures are used outdoors, inside buildings. When purchasing such devices, it is important to consider the permissible areas of their application. The required power characteristics and the length of the laser beam depend on them.
Working within a confined space requires a rangefinder with a beam of up to 650 nm and a power of no more than 1 mW. If you need to use the device outdoors, you should choose a model capable of measuring distances greater than 60 m. If you use the device at home (in small rooms), you will not need a measurement range of more than 30 meters.
It is extremely important to focus on the accuracy of the measuring device: it is determined by the magnitude of the maximum error. Modern high-quality models give a deviation of less than 3 mm.
The effectiveness of the measurements taken is sometimes influenced by the structure and shade of the reflective base. A darkened or uneven surface partially absorbs radiation, increasing the error in determining the distance. In order to eliminate such factors, a “target” is used, which is a smooth plate.
The efficiency of laser roulette is increased by:
- optical sight;
- anti-fog lens;
- high-strength body;
- inclinometer;
- option to calculate volume, area.
Advice! To avoid errors resulting from hand shake, you must purchase a measuring device along with a tripod.
For construction and engineering measurements, rangefinders with a bubble level are useful; for working in open spaces, it is better to purchase models with a sighting device Source instrumentoria.ru
How to choose a laser rangefinder
To figure out which rangefinder is best for you, decide what features you'll need. Household and professional models have different functionality, which also affects prices.
Selection for the use of laser rangefinders
An electronic tape measure is a useful tool for measuring work. Which one should you choose according to your tasks? First, let’s look at the areas in which electronic roulettes are used.
- Construction and finishing works.
- Landscape and interior design.
- Design of air conditioning and ventilation systems.
- Installation of communications and structures.
- Excavation.
- Carrying out inspections.
- Hunting.
For a construction electronic tape measure, the measuring range will not be the only important indicator. If you are choosing which laser tape measure is best to buy for repairs, pay attention to additional functionality: calculating area and volume, thread for a tripod, storing the latest data and synchronization with a smartphone. Next we will look at these options in more detail.
The best laser rangefinder for hunters differs from a construction one: it is designed for a long measuring distance, which is found in overly expensive professional models, has a good sight, and is protected from moisture and mechanical damage.
Selection by characteristics of laser rangefinders
Next, let's look at the technical specifications. Having an idea about them, we can answer the question of how to choose a rangefinder.
Device types
Let's look at the principles of operation of laser rangefinders and their analogs that operate using ultrasound. We will also touch on the advantages and disadvantages of each of these types of power tools.
Laser . On the top of the device there is a laser beam source and a photodetector. At the moment of measurement, the beam is projected in a straight line until it touches an obstacle. The laser is then reflected and captured by a photodetector. Processing this data provides information about the distance to the object.
The advantage of models with laser is high measurement accuracy. The minimum error is 2 mm/m in the cheapest devices. Disadvantages: the devices do not react well to bright sunlight and do not function correctly when you need to get a distance from a transparent material (for example, glass). You have to resort to tricks: placing thick cardboard or other non-transparent material close to the glass.
Ultrasonic . We will not further touch on the topic of such tools, but we will talk about them for general development. The principle of echolocation is used to determine distance. The sound wave that is generated by the speaker is repelled from the surface and returns, after which it is read by the microphone. The laser is also present, but is intended for more convenient pointing: it is not involved in the measurement.
The main advantage of ultrasonic: the ability to carry out work in bright natural light. The disadvantage is the following: the sound wave is distorted, seriously affecting accuracy. This occurs when there are other objects near the target. The sound beam is also affected by the weather.
Maximum measuring distance
The beam's range is limited. To understand which laser rangefinder is best suited for your tasks, consider 3 basic gradations of measurement distance:
- Up to 20 meters. It will be sufficient for use in residential premises: apartments, rooms of private houses.
- Up to 40 meters. Relevant for work in administrative buildings: small trading floors, offices, small warehouses.
- 40-100 meters or more. Devices with a long range are used in large warehouses, production workshops, construction sites, and in open spaces.
Keep in mind that from 20 meters the laser becomes barely noticeable, and the accuracy of hand-held aiming decreases. The best laser tape measure for long distances will have a tripod thread and a good viewfinder.
Minimum measuring distance
If you plan to work not only with large, but also with short distances, pay attention to this parameter. Accuracy when measuring short distances is affected by the fact that the laser source and receiver are located at a distance. The beam reflected from the material may not reach the receiver.
Error
The indicator is taken into account for each meter of distance. If the instrument's accuracy is 1.5 mm/m and you measure a distance of 20 meters, the error will be approximately 30 mm. When choosing a laser tape measure, keep in mind that the error is on average 1-3 mm/m (the smaller the better).
Laser wavelength
The beam of laser roulettes in the ranking of the best ones is green or red. Wavelength is an indicator that affects color. Green - 550 nm (nanometers), red - 650 nm. These colors are used because they are the most contrasting and visible to humans. Green is more visible, but keep in mind that it blends with nature.
Measurement delay
Determining the distance does not happen instantly. Latency is often not taken into account in technical specifications. When wondering which laser rangefinder you should choose, look at reviews and top 10 videos that show how the gadget works.
Number of reference points
The electronic tape measure starts reporting from the rear end, which increases accuracy at short distances. The front wall can be another point of reference - sometimes this is convenient.
Power supply
Many, including the best rangefinders for construction, use the following power sources:
- AA (finger).
- AAA (little finger).
- The battery can be proprietary (branded), lithium-ion, built-in (not replaceable).
- CR2.
Weight
When wondering which rangefinder is best to buy, you should not pay much attention to weight. On average, an electric tape measure weighs 0.11 kg, and there is no critical difference between different models. It’s better to take a closer look at the form factor: how the device fits in your hand, whether there are rubber pads, etc.
Selecting a laser roulette based on capabilities
According to reviews on the topic of which laser rangefinder is better to choose, in addition to simple measurements from the reporting point to the target, builders, surveyors, finishing craftsmen and other specialists use additional functions. They allow calculations to be made based on measurements taken.
Addition and subtraction
Carrying out simple mathematical operations when you need to sum several lengths or subtract one from another.
Automatic calculation of area and volume
Thanks to this ability, the user does not need to perform simple calculations manually. Data is available based on measured sides (length and width for area, height also required for volume).
Pythagorean function
Calculation of the size of an unknown segment based on two or more measurements. It is useful when for some reason it is not possible to obtain suitable conditions for measurement.
Painter function
Allows you to sum the area of several surfaces. This will be useful, for example, to determine the floor area in a room with a complex layout. Also useful for calculating the amount of material needed for repair or construction work.
Determination of minimum and maximum (tracking)
This feature compares the results of several recent measurements, producing the largest or smallest. Useful when you need to determine the length of a diagonal or perpendicular.
Trapezoid measurement
Provides calculation of the side length from the remaining three segments. It is convenient if some of the areas are located out of reach and it is impossible to measure it manually.
Marking equal segments
The function is useful for marking when any monotonous objects (trees, columns) need to be placed at the same distance. Thanks to the ability, the selected segment will be divided into several equally spaced segments.
Calculation of area from several points
A feature that is relevant for identifying the area of hard-to-reach areas.
Calculation of inclination angles of lines and planes from several measured points
An attempt to implement the level functionality as a separate option. Useful for interior and exterior work by surveyors, builders, and landscape designers.
Creating photographs of objects with overlaid measurement results
Will save time on visualizing the result.
Ballistic calculator
A specific function that is found only in hunting models. Calculates the change in the trajectory of a bullet over a measured distance. Allows you to make range corrections to shoot more accurately.
Selection by additional functions and equipment
Don’t know how to choose a laser tape measure, even though you’ve already decided on its purpose and the required technical characteristics? Pay attention to optional amenities that will increase your comfort of use.
Waterproof and dustproof
The level of protection of the product body from the ingress of small particles and liquids is indicated by the IP rating (Ingress Protection Rating). Which laser rangefinder is better to buy if you plan to take measurements in aggressive conditions? IP54 implies protection from dust (penetration is possible, but will not damage performance), splashes.
Built-in sight (visor)
Option for measuring over long distances. Allows you to target an object from afar. It also makes hunting easier, as it involves tracking a target from a long distance.
Tripod mount
To avoid aiming at a distant target while holding the gadget in shaking hands, attach it to a tripod. This is relevant when there is nowhere to fix the device (lean it against a wall/column).
Maximum measurement time
Some models are equipped with a continuous measurement mode. Data is not collected after pressing a button, but continuously as the device position changes. In this mode, the charge is consumed much faster.
Display and automatic backlight
To understand how to choose a laser rangefinder for comfortable work in the dark and in bright light, look at the screen. High brightness will allow you to read information from the display, even if you measure in low light or on a sunny day.
Ignoring foliage
This feature is convenient for use in open spaces. The device will learn to filter out reflections of vegetation (grass or leaves) so that they do not distort the data.
Storing measurements in the built-in memory
In some cases, it is inconvenient to record measurement results directly after each measurement. To achieve this, a fixed number of recent readings can remain in the device's memory.
Automatic shutdown function
To use the charge more economically and replace batteries less frequently, take a closer look at models that turn off after idle time. When you take the necessary measurements and leave the device, forgetting to turn it off, it will do this automatically.
Bubble level
If the task requires measurements with minimal deviations, use the bubble on the body. It will also save you if you don’t have a building level at hand.
Stop brackets or pins
Needed to place the device in specific hard-to-reach places, which periodically serve as a reference point. The bracket hooks onto the desired object or is used as a support.
Strap hole
The buttonhole can be placed around your wrist to prevent the device from falling if you drop it. This is especially true for measurements at height.
Continuous measurement
Data is displayed in real time. No need to press the button every time. Useful if you need to measure a specific distance.
Measurement system
Switch between displaying measurements in meters, millimeters, inches, feet, etc. Depending on the country, some use the metric system of measures, and some use the English system, so different units of measurement are required.
Display indicators
Indicators by which it is more convenient to determine the status of a device. There are indicators of operating mode or battery charge.
Bluetooth
Synchronization with a smartphone will allow you to transfer measurements to a special application on iOS or Android, carry out area/volume calculations, and create digital plans based on the data received.
Touch screen
Slightly simplifies navigation through the interface. Measuring work is carried out as part of construction and repair work, which requires wearing personal protective equipment, including gloves. Under this condition, touch control is a dubious advantage.
Adapter screw
Useful if your model has the ability to mount it on a tripod, but the thread is not suitable. Tighten the screw and use the gadget with the required fastening.
Laser glasses
Even if you use the best laser rangefinder for home, some conditions make it difficult to see the beam. For example, at a long distance or in bright light. The glasses do not perform a protective function, they are needed to improve the visibility of the beam, and the color of the glasses corresponds to the color of the laser, with which it will simplify the work (red glasses - for the red beam).
Case
A means for comfortable storage and transportation. Protects against damage if dropped.
Laser target
Device for measuring long distances. Red, so that it can be seen from afar and the beam of the corresponding color can be clearly distinguished. For additional convenience, they are equipped with a magnet for attaching to metal surfaces, a ring for hanging, markings, etc.
Selection by availability in the State Register
The results obtained from devices included in the State Register can be legally included in official documents. This is necessary if you take measurements professionally, since the readings can be considered reliable.
Rating of the best laser roulettes
When selecting a device with a laser, it is recommended to carefully study the most popular models of measuring instruments among users, consider their main characteristics, positive and negative aspects.
Leica DISTO D2 New
The top of the list of laser rangefinders is a high-precision device with action within 100 m. The memory located inside the meter stores the values of the last ten measurements. Numerous valuable options make the device multifunctional. It works great in hard-to-reach places and difficult conditions (in the cold). The auto shut-off feature significantly saves battery power. The error of such a device is only 1.5 mm.
Pros:
- huge range of measurements;
- protection from outside influence;
- ease of setup;
- attractive design;
- the display contains a lot of information;
- high accuracy;
- Bluetooth available.
Based on user reviews, this rangefinder has no disadvantages.
Leica DISTO D2 NEW laser rangefinder is a compact, multifunctional, easy-to-use device suitable for professional and personal use Source cdn.vseinstrumenti.ru
PECAHTA DL-40
The Russian-made laser tape measure is compact and quickly calculates the required values. This allows builders to significantly save working time. Measurement range – maximum 40 m, deviation – no more than 2 mm. The measurement results are stored in the device’s memory. This model is quite reliable, has a convenient shape, and is small in size.
Pros:
- the screen displays all the necessary information;
- presence of bright lighting;
- ergonomics;
- measurements can be taken in hard-to-reach places;
- convenient functionality of the device;
- relatively low cost;
- simple settings.
Multiple users did not find any significant disadvantages when using the above-described budget measuring device.
The best household laser rangefinders
Such models have only basic functions and are capable of taking measurements at a distance of no more than 50 meters.
Household laser rangefinders can have an error of about 3 mm and have low power. They are inexpensive and designed for small household tasks.
Bosch Zamo II
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
95%
buyers recommend this product
See review▶
The model features compact dimensions and convenient control with one button.
The length of the device body is 10 cm, weight - 80 g. The measurement error does not exceed 3 mm, which guarantees accuracy at a distance of up to 20 meters.
The device has the function of saving the results obtained for maintaining statistics or calculations.
The device can be used outdoors at temperatures from -10 to +40 °C and air humidity no more than 90%.
Advantages:
- saving measurements;
- backlit display;
- frost resistance;
- small dimensions;
- accuracy of measurements.
Flaws:
- no cover included.
Bosch Zamo II will be an excellent assistant in repairs or solving everyday tasks at a construction site.
Resistance to negative temperatures and humidity allows the tape measure to be used in difficult conditions.
Practice DL-20 241-192
4.9
★★★★★
editorial assessment
94%
buyers recommend this product
Features of the model include the presence of a keyboard and economical energy consumption. It is provided by the function of automatically turning off the device after five minutes of inactivity, as well as self-deactivation of the laser 20 seconds after taking the measurement.
The device error is 1.5 mm, the maximum range is 20 m. The rangefinder is capable of working with SI units such as meters, feet, inches. The display backlight makes it easy to use the tape measure even in the dark.
Advantages:
- fast work;
- Ease of use;
- battery saving;
- compactness.
Flaws:
- no tripod thread.
Practice DL-20 241-192 is purchased for the effective performance of construction and installation or planning work. High speed of pointing and measurement guarantees accurate readings at various distances.
Special DL-30
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
88%
buyers recommend this product
The main features of the model are ease of operation and long service life. The body of the device is equipped with rubber inserts that soften the impact when falling from a small height. The maximum measurement range is 30 meters, the error is no more than 2 mm.
The tape measure can take up to 5000 measurements on one battery charge. Additional features include: determining the area of a rectangle, calculating the volume, calculating the length of the sides and storing measurement results in the rangefinder memory.
Advantages:
- frost resistance;
- light weight;
- memory function;
- extensive additional capabilities;
- durable body.
Flaws:
- complex controls.
The DL-30 specialist will be an excellent assistant in construction and repair work. The reliability and performance of the device allows you to use it in any conditions.
Megeon 06042
4.8
★★★★★
editorial assessment
88%
buyers recommend this product
Ease of use of the model is ensured by an informative four-line display, protection of the keyboard from moisture and dust, and storage of measured values.
Precise positioning of the device is achieved by mounting it on a tripod; you can check its correctness using a bubble level.
The measurement range is 40 meters, the error does not exceed 1.5 mm. The device has the function of taking diagonal and angular measurements, adding and subtracting the obtained values.
Advantages:
- durable body;
- archive of measurements;
- accuracy of work;
- tripod thread.
Flaws:
- high energy consumption.
Megeon 06042 will be useful in the construction of any structures. The versatility and portability of the tape measure allows it to be successfully used at various sites.
RGK D50
4.7
★★★★★
editorial assessment
86%
buyers recommend this product
The main feature of the model is its good measurement range - 50 meters. The kit includes a laser target, which allows you to reduce the operating error to 2 mm even at long distances.
Protection class IP54 guarantees the device's resistance to moisture and dust. The device's display is turned to its side, which results in a compact body size along with excellent information content of the screen.
Advantages:
- long operating range;
- moisture resistance;
- wide screen;
- small dimensions.
Flaws:
- poor visibility on the street.
The RGK D50 is a must-have for DIYers, designers and engineers. The rangefinder will be an excellent assistant when calculating the distance to a point, the area of a room or the volume of a ventilation hole.
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Rating of the TOP 15 best laser rangefinders for 2021-2022
This rating includes the best laser rangefinders, marked by a large number of positive reviews from both users and experts. These models are perfect for household needs, for repairs, and for hunting.
| Place | Name | Price |
| TOP 5 best laser rangefinders by price/quality for 2021-2022 | ||
| 1 | BOSCH GLM 500 | Find out the price |
| 2 | Xiaomi Duka LS-P Laser Range Finder | Find out the price |
| 3 | BOSCH GLM 20 Professional | Find out the price |
| 4 | BOSCH PLR 25 | Find out the price |
| 5 | RGK DL50 | Find out the price |
| TOP 5 best inexpensive laser rangefinders | ||
| 1 | SNDWAY SW-T4S | Find out the price |
| 2 | DEKO LRD110-40m | Find out the price |
| 3 | DEKO LRD110-50m | Find out the price |
| 4 | ELITECH LD 40M | Find out the price |
| 5 | SNDWAY SW-T40 | Find out the price |
| TOP 5 best professional laser rangefinders | ||
| 1 | BOSCH GLM 50 C Professional | Find out the price |
| 2 | BOSCH GLM 40 Professional | Find out the price |
| 3 | BOSCH GLM 80 Professional | Find out the price |
| 4 | RGK D120 | Find out the price |
| 5 | BOSCH Zamo III Set | Find out the price |
