Working without the right tools is like working with one hand tied behind your back. Now take the case of laser level, which is a cool gadget that has made construction easy.
However, it has certain limitations regarding the conditions it can operate in. Sometimes the distance and lighting conditions make it difficult to see the laser beam. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t use the laser level in such situations.
All you need is a laser detector (or laser receiver) to locate the laser beam.
The best laser level detector will make it very easy for you to use the laser level even in the murkiest or brightest of lighting conditions.
Some of the best laser detectors available in the market are:
| Top Rated Laser Level Detectors | ||
|---|---|---|
For Green Lasers | Dewalt DW0892G
| Read My Review |
Best Quality | Leica RE 160 Rod Eye
| Read My Review |
Good Value | DEWALT DW0772
| Read My Review |
Rugged Design | Spectra Precision CR600
| Read My Review |
Best Budget | AdirPro LD-8
| Read My Review |
Best Laser Level Detectors to Buy in 2024
#1 - Dewalt DW0892G Laser Detector For Green Line Lasers
Compatible with Line laser levels, green beam only.
- Long detecting range up to 165 feet
- Automatic shut-off helps to save battery
- Easy to read LCD displays
- Only compatible with Dewalt green line laser levels
Dewalt DW0892G Laser Detector Review
Dewalt DW0892G laser detector for green beam laser is another excellent product from Dewalt, which has been a worldwide brand of power tools and hand tools since 1924.
The detecting range for interior as well as exterior applications is up to 165 feet, which makes it very handy when you want to measure long distances.
Coupled with the loud and clear audible signal, which comes with an adjustable volume control, it is a perfect device for those working on large construction projects. Also, the accuracy and precision of Dewalt DW0892G enable it to detect laser beam from laser level in bright sunny conditions as well.
It has front and rear back-lit LCD displays that make it easy to read results and figures. Plus, it has very selectable narrow and wide accuracy settings for your convenience. The detector has an automatic shut off that turns it off after being inactive for five minutes, which helps conserve battery life when not in use.
Another great feature is that it has top mounted magnets, which help in securing it to ceiling track or steel studs. The Dewalt DW0892G Line Laser Detector also has quick release clamp to go with it.
However, there has been one widely reported drawback – compatibility issues. Although it works perfectly with Dewalt green laser levels, some problems do crop up when used with devices of other brands.
Like other products by this brand, the Dewalt DW0892G laser detector delivers on its promise of quality and precision. It can deliver precise results for all your horizontal and vertical applications.
#2 - Best Quality: Leica Rod Eye 160 Rotary Laser Receiver
Compatible with Rotary laser levels only.
- Long detecting range of about 4430 feet
- Quick to detect the laser beam
- Visual and audio indicator with a dual digital display that is easy to read
- A bit pricey.
Leica Rod Eye 160 Rotary Laser Receiver Review
The Leica Rod Eye 160 is a professional-grade digital laser detector that can detect laser signal from a rotary laser at a longer distance up to a range of 4430 feet (laser dependent) even in difficult lighting condition.
It delivers on its promise of accuracy as it is capable taking readings at a high precision level up to 0.5 millimeters. Leica Rod Eye 160 features a digital display on the front and back of the detector that is ergonomically designed to provide you clear and accurate readings on either side.
It features a digital readout, strobe rejection. The digital Liquid Crystal Display produces measurement values in millimeters, centimeters, fractions, inches, or 100ths of a foot, according to the user’s preferences.
Another great feature is the strobe rejection and the 5” laser detection window. This extremely large reception window allows a very fast detection of the laser beam by the device making it fast and reliable.
The audio indication helps in the detection of the laser plane and can be set to high and low according to your needs.
The Leica Rod Eye 160 comes with a robust housing with rubber over-mold on its corners and edges. This provides protection against damages as it reduces the shock it receives when it drops on the job site.
The device also comes with a grade rod bracket and bubble level to provide an additional level of precision. The five detection precision level of ±0.02", ±0.04", ±0.08", ±0.12", and ±0.20" offered by this device can be utilized to suit your application needs.
It comes with 3-year warranty out of the box against manufacturer defects and uses 2 AA batteries at an average battery life of 50 hours.
For a fast, accurate and long distance applications, the Leica Rod Eye 160 will not let you down. It is a durable and reliable companion for an enhanced productivity.
#3 - Great Value: DEWALT DW0772 Digital Laser Detector
Compatible with Rotary laser levels only.
- Compatible with all rotary laser levels
- Impressive detecting range up to 1000 feet
- High accuracy within 1/25-inch
- Robust and waterproof design
- Cannot be used with line laser levels
Dewalt DW0772 Laser Detector Review
This is another versatile tool from DeWalt on our list. The Dewalt DW0772 can detect laser beams over the distance of more than 1000 feet. And, the accuracy is also impressive. In readings, it can deliver the accuracy within 1/25-inch (1 mm).
The Dewalt DW0772 Laser Detector has a dual LCD display, which means you can read results from both sides of the detector. This feature is very handy when you are standing behind the detector.
Also, it has a heavy-duty clamp that can be easily mounted on a grade rod or site staff and is very durable to last the rigors of the construction site.
Another feature that makes it well suited for the rough and tough conditions of the construction site is that it is 100% waterproof. Also, the Dewalt DW0772 has durable windows that are immune to nail and screw puncture.
Plus, it has three volume settings for the detection signal, which you can set according to the noise level at the site.
The Dewalt DW0772 Laser Detector works smoothly with rotary laser beams only. The users have complained that it is next to useless when it comes to line laser levels. And, it is a bit expensive as well. But wonderful features make it worth it.
#4 - Most Advanced: Spectra Precision Laser CR600 Combination Laser Receiver
Compatible with Rotary laser levels only.
- Comes with audio indicator and visual display that is easy to read
- Long detecting range of about 350 feet
- Shock and water resistant
- Approx 100 hours of use
- A little bit pricey
Spectra Precision Laser CR600 Laser Receiver Review
The Spectra Precision Laser CR600 receiver is a versatile, accurate, and highly durable laser detector most suitable for use with the LL500 transmitter.
It can also detect red rotary laser beam up to the range of 350 feet irrespective of the lighting conditions. It comes loaded with many exciting features and also with a 3-year warranty.
Spectra CR600 is designed for use by contractors for concrete and site preparation. It is very easy to use for precise measurement of elevations across the site. It features a tough, water-resistant, lightweight magnesium casing that can withstand being dropped at 3m (10-foot) onto concrete.
This ability to withstand harshest construction site’s conditions makes it the choice of most contractors. You can use this device as a handheld receiver or even mount it on a rod for a wide range of applications, like the setting of grades, leveling forms and footers, basement excavation, measuring elevation changes and measuring cut and fill.
You can also mount and use this device on machines like a backhoe, skid steer loader or small excavator. The CR600 is a perfect economical entry to machine control efficiency.
It comes with a magnetic strip feature that allows a magnetic mount onto any metallic surface and has a user-friendly interface. It comes with 3 AA batteries and boasts an amazing battery life of 100 working hours.
It also has an automatic power-off feature that shuts down the device when it is idle for about 30 minutes. This amazing feature saves the battery life to provide you an extended amount of usage without having to replace the battery.
Another exciting feature is the 15-channel linear display. This allows you to take accurate measurements without having to be on-grade since its high and low indicators allow the measurement of the offset to the on-grade position without wasting time.
The Spectra CR600 also offers an Out-of-level warning to notify you when you are moving out of the on-grade position. It also comes with a compatible rod clamp. Its red and green LED elevation indicators are very bright, this ensures high visibility even in poor light conditions.
You can switch through its 7 on-grade sensitivity for a more precise measurement. The reception angle of 270 degrees means fewer setups and increases the contractor’s productivity, particularly for machine applications.
The Spectra CR600 laser receiver is an excellent choice for contractors who do not joke with precision and quality. With its high durability, water and shock resistance on top of other exciting features, you would agree that this device is one of the best laser detectors for the money.
#5 - Best Budget: AdirPro LD-8 Universal Rotary Laser Receiver Detector
Compatible with Rotary laser levels only.
- Comes with audio indicator and dual LCD displays that are easy to read
- Auto shut-off to save battery
- Approx 40 hours of use
- Great price
- Some user complained about the clamp not staying tight
- Transit grade rod, cannot withstand much abuse.
AdirPro LD-8 Rotary Laser Receiver Detector Review
AdirPro LD-8 is a quick and reliable rotary laser detector that delivers on its promise of accuracy and quality. It produces excellent results you can bank on for your vertical and horizontal applications and works with most red rotary laser levels(except Topcon models) in all lighting conditions.
This device can reliably detect laser signals up to the range of 160 feet even when the beam cannot be seen. Its compatibility with red rotary lasers regardless of the lighting condition makes it suitable for use both indoors and outdoors.
AdirPro LD-8 laser detector can be employed in projects that require a fast and accurate grading or leveling such as trenching, setting concrete forms, laying of pipes, leveling of driveways, installation of ceiling tiles, aligning shelves, and the installation of power receptacles in a home.
With this device, the amount of time spent on finding the beam and getting on the level is reduced, allowing you to make accurate readings without wasting much time.
It comes with a magnetic strip feature that makes it easy to fix the device onto any metallic surface. This laser detector is smart, easy to use, and comes in a simple design with a limited lifetime warranty.
Another great feature is the dual-sided LCD display that clearly displays grade sensitivity, elevation readings, audio volume and battery status. The included bubble level offers an added measure of leveling precision.
It also has the accuracy mode that allows you to switch between ultrafine (±1 mm) and very coarse (±2.5 mm). Its user-friendly interface and its accurate and crystal clear readouts give it a real value for money.
This detector also features a robust plastic housing and rubber casing which offers strong protection against weather conditions as well as long-term durability and usage. The volume and backlight of the device's LCD screen can be regulated with the simple touch of a button.
It also has an automatic power-off feature that shuts down the device when it is left idle for about 10 minutes. This amazing feature helps to save battery life and provide you an extended amount of usage without having to replace the battery.
AdirPro LD-8 rotary laser detector is available with acompatible rod clamp. This allows you to secure the laser detector to the clamp using the 0.25” thread screw and then fasten the detector to a grade rod or wooden pole.
It comes with 2 AA batteries and boasts a long battery life of 40 working hours.
If you are looking for an affordable, reliable, and precise laser detector for efficient horizontal and vertical applications, the AdirPro LD-8 rotary laser detector is your best bet.
#6 - Leica RVL100 Receiver LINO Laser Receiver
Compatible with red pulsed laser lines only.
- Audio indicator and dual visual display that are clear and easy to read
- Water and dust resistant
- Battery life offers an average of 40 hours of usage
- Not compatible for use with rotary lasers
Leica RVL100 LINO Laser Receiver Review
The Leica RVL100 is compatible with the Leica LINO series of line lasers and accurately detects red pulsed laser signals at longer distances up to the range of 200 feet or when the beam is invisible to the eyes.
This device only detects pulsed laser lines and not the laser dots.
It features a 42 mm (1.65") reception window. This large reception window allows the device to detect laser signals promptly, while the visual and audio signals help in the detection of laser plane.
It also comes with a receiver holder, a quick adjustment feature and bubble level that allows you to mount, adjust, and use the product easily.
Another exciting feature is the dual display on the front and back of the detector that is ergonomically designed to provide you clear and accurate readings.
The Leica RVL100 receiver has a magnetic strip that allows you to fix the receiver onto any metal surface easily. It is available in red or black colors and comes with 2-year warranty out of the box.
It uses a standard 9V battery and has an average battery life of 40 hours.
The Leica RVL100 receiver is a fast and reliable laser detector. It is water and dust resistant, makes it suitable for use in harsh site conditions.
#7 - PLS-SLD Laser Detector, PLS-60533
Compatible with laser levels of Pacific Laser Systems only.
- Include both audio and visual indicators
- Easy to operate with large buttons
- Long battery life up to 30 hours
PLS-60533 Laser Detector Review
This device detects the pulsed lines emitted by the PLS laser levels quickly and accurately when the PLS pulse tools are put on the "exterior" mode.
The detection range of this Pacific Laser System device is up to 200 feet. Also, it is very easy to operate with large buttons of the specific operations lined up by the side of the display.
On detecting the lines from the laser level, it gives both visible and audible signal that allows the contractor to make accurate markings. It also has a bracket to attach to grade rods, making it even more convenient for outdoor use.
Like most of the laser level receivers on this list, it has LED front and back display, which makes it easier to see findings with the sun glare beating on the device.
The PLS-SLD Laser Detector runs on a 9-volt battery and has a low battery indicator as well.
However, it isn’t compatible with laser levels of any brand apart from the Pacific Laser Systems. And, the accuracy of the measurements isn’t as precise as of products of other brands available in the same price range.
The PLS-60533 is a well-built detector for PLS laser levels. And, the small size makes it convenient to carry around.
#8 - Johnson Level and Tool 40-6720 (Universal Detector Kit)
Compatible with rotary lasers, red beams only.
Johnson Level & Tool Laser Detector Kit- Can be used with most types of rotating laser levels
- Long detecting range up to 300 feet
- Include both audio and visual indicators for precise leveling
- Dust and water resistant (IP67)
- Lack of magnet mounting for indoor use
Johnson 40-6720 Universal Laser Detector Review
Johnson Level is another heavyweight in manufacturing construction measurement tools. And, this laser detector from the well-established brand is a great product to use in conjunction with any rotary laser levels.
The Johnson Laser Detector can easily and quickly detect laser beams from any rotary laser level. The detection range of this laser detector stretched up to 300 feet which is more than twice offered by the previous product in our list.
It has a clamp that can be attached to the leveling staff or grade rods. Also, it has front and back back-lit displays. These features make this Johnson Laser Detector a great product to use in outdoor construction projects.
It has both types of detection indicators – audio and visual, which makes precise leveling a fairly simple job.
Also, the Johnson Laser Detector has fine and course (wide and narrow) detection settings, which helps to take down even more precise and accurate readings. Plus, it has auto shutdown feature that helps in conserving battery life.
However, the bulky size and lack of magnets make it unsuitable for indoor use. Also, you don’t need a large number of detection settings (which makes it a bit expensive) for indoor use.
It is only wise to splurge money on this Johnson 40-6720 laser detector if you are handling a large construction or outdoor project.
How To Choose The Right Laser Detector Receiver?
You have to consider some key factors to find the right laser detector that suits your work as well as your laser level perfectly.
- The foremost of these factors is compatibility. Although there are few that work with all wavelengths, most of the laser detectors work with a particular wavelength.
- Another factor is the detecting range of the laser detector, which itself is self-explanatory.
- Then, there are types of indicators that tell you when the right grade has been reached. These indicators are divided into two – audio and visual.
- Lastly, we have specific settings that allow you to get precise results. The settings and the price are linearly related, the higher the number of settings, more expensive your laser detector would be.
