Laser measuring instruments: classification, scope, use

Editor's Choice

BOSCH PLR 25 (from 3.2 thousand rubles)

BOSCH PLR 25. Photo: market.yandex
A well-known German brand offers its solution in the category of the best rangefinders of 2022. Surprisingly, unlike most modern instruments, it is assembled not in China, but in Malaysia. Without a special reflector, it measures up to 25 meters. The readings are instantly projected onto the color display. This one consumes more battery than economical LCDs. Therefore, the factory thought of an auto-shutoff function if no one used the device for five minutes. The device has, although small, a memory for 10 measurements. Convenient if you have nowhere to write down values ​​or don’t want to be distracted. You can then calmly calculate everything. Due to the built-in functions, it calculates not only the length, but also the area and volume. There is one mode selection button. This may seem inconvenient to some, that you need to constantly switch, instead of just pressing the desired button, which is responsible for a specific function. Can measure from the leading or trailing edge of an object. Simple mathematical operations are available - adding and subtracting values.

Characteristics

Additional information: laser, two reference points, color display, built-in memory, battery powered, 90 g.

Case included and intuitive interface

Tight buttons

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DEKO LRD110 (from 1.6 thousand rubles)

DEKO LRD110.
Photo: market.yandex Repair equipment from this brand is sold in large quantities on Asian Internet sites. But some successful examples also end up in our stores, such as this rangefinder. Due to its price segment and abundance of functions, it is in demand in 2022. The device is capable of measuring not only in linear perspective. It gives the area of ​​the room, volume, and uses the Pythagorean theorem to measure the height and vertical angle. The user can add the resulting values ​​to get the desired result. The device has moisture protection according to the IP54 standard. This is not a very high figure. For comparison, it is higher in modern iPhones. That is, the rangefinder will probably break if it falls into the water. But raindrops and a dusty room will do him no harm. To level the device horizontally, a bubble level is installed. The only complaint that ordinary users have is the speed of operation. If you need to measure a lot and often, you will have to wait - the device needs time to calculate.

Characteristics

Additional information: laser, two reference points, built-in memory, battery powered, 76 g.

Rich functionality for such a price

Slow to do calculations

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Condtrol SMART 60 (from 3.5 thousand rubles)

Condtrol SMART 60. Photo: market.yandex
Among the best rangefinders of 2022, this one stands out for its characteristics at a price that is relatively typical for the market. The measurement range here is 60 meters, versus the standard 50 or even 25. The accuracy is higher. Its functionality is standard for modern devices: area, volume, addition or subtraction of values. But there is a feature that for some reason others forget about - tracking. This is a dynamic or continuous measurement. It is not used so often in repairs, but it is nice to know that the device can display changes in distance online. To measure vertical structures, such as windows, doorways, columns, the device must be held strictly horizontally. A bubble level helps with this. The display is backlit, all indicators are quite large. Each function here has a separate button, so you can figure it out even without instructions. The case is covered with a rubber seal: shock protection and anti-slip function.

Characteristics

Additional information: laser, two reference points, built-in memory, battery powered, 83 g.

Rubberized body

The screen glares in the sun

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The best professional models

These models are worth paying attention to if ideal measurement accuracy, long range and maximum functionality of the device are important.

Review of the best professional construction rangefinders.

BOSCH GLM 120 C 120 m

The BOSCH GLM 120 C rangefinder with a maximum measurement of up to 120 meters is a compact and incredibly useful device that allows you to quickly and accurately determine the distance to an object using a laser.

The error of the presented device is only 1.5 mm. The built-in memory allows you to store up to 50 values.

The equipment is equipped with a class 2 laser with a wavelength of 650 nm. Measurements in meters, feet and inches are available to the user.

The device is complemented by bright lighting and a clearly visible sound alarm.

The device is powered by a Li-Ion battery supplied along with a USB cable and charging unit.

Specifications:

• range (max) - 120 m;
• error - 1.5 mm;
• memory - 50 measurements;
• power supply - battery;
• features - IP54 protection, USB port, 650 nm laser, Bluetooth;
• functionality - screen backlight, sound signal, auto power off, area calculation, angle calculation.

Advantages

• high accuracy;
• speed of work;
• convenient side button;
• capacious battery;
• nice design.

Flaws

• weak magnet on the case;
• The display is not protected from scratches.

BOSCH GLM 80 + R 60 Professional 80 m

This is a universal device for determining range, slope, volume, area and other parameters.

The professional rangefinder BOSCH GLM 80 with inclinometer R 60, allowing measurements at a distance of up to 80 meters, is assembled in a compact stylish case, manufactured in accordance with the requirements for protection class IP54.

The equipment boasts a low error and has its own memory for 20 measurements.

The device receives power from a capacious rechargeable battery. The rotating automatic display is backlit for optimal data readability.

Specifications:

• range (max) - 80 m;
• error - 1.5 mm;
• memory - 20 measurements;
• power supply - battery;
• features - IP54 protection, USB port, 635 nm laser;
• functionality - rotating backlit screen, auto-off, addition/subtraction, volume calculation, continuous measurement, area calculation, Pythagorean function, angle calculation, max./min determination. values.

Advantages

• measuring range;
• low error;
• battery power;
• modern design.

Flaws

• high price;
• small own memory;
• Dim screen backlight.

Leica Camera DISTO X4 150 m

Professional equipment Leica Camera DISTO X4 with a beam range of up to 150 meters is adapted for use outdoors, in conditions of bright lighting, high humidity and dust.

The body of the device is equipped with a rubber coating, which allows you to protect the device from shocks and falls from low heights.

The device is equipped with a digital visor, a multifunctional bracket, a camera with zoom, Bluetooth technology, and other functions and capabilities.

The device allows measurements in the vertical plane with high accuracy.

Point-to-point (P2P) technology makes it possible to measure distances to inaccessible objects with subsequent export to CAD.

Specifications:

• range (max) - 150 m;
• error - 1.5 mm;
• memory - 20 measurements;
• power supply: 2 AAA batteries;
• features - IP54 protection, Bluetooth;
• functionality - screen backlight, auto-off, addition/subtraction, volume calculation, continuous measurement, area calculation, Pythagorean function, angle calculation, max./min determination. values, shockproof housing.

Advantages

• excellent design;
• good accuracy;
• quick start;
• compact sizes.

Flaws

• not the best quality build;
• poor autonomy;
• not bright display.

BOSCH GLM 250 VF + BS 150 Professional 250 m

The professional rangefinder BOSCH GLM 250 VF with a high-quality BS 150 tripod included is an ultra-precise device that allows you to take measurements at a distance of up to 250 meters.

The minimum measurement value is 5 cm, the error does not exceed 1 mm. The ability to store up to 30 readings in the built-in memory increases the convenience and efficiency of using the equipment.

The device is powered by four AAA batteries. Batteries are included in the kit along with a convenient carrying case.

The body of the device is equipped with a loop for a strap. The device is compact in size and weighs 240 grams. The included tripod greatly simplifies the operation of the rangefinder.

Specifications:

• range (max) - 250 m;
• error - 1 mm;
• memory - 30 measurements;
• power supply: 4 AAA batteries;
• features - IP54 protection, 635 nm laser, tripod included;
• functionality - screen backlight, sound signal, auto power off, addition/subtraction, volume calculation, continuous measurement, area calculation, Pythagorean function, determination of max./min. values, marking.

Advantages

• measurement range;
• a large number of useful functions;
• powerful and bright laser;
• quick startup and operation.

Flaws

• high price tag;
• not the best autonomy.

What other rangefinders are worth paying attention to?

ADA instruments COSMO MINI (from 2.5 thousand rubles)

ADA instruments COSMO MINI.
Photo: market.yandex Laser roulette with a minimum set of functions for the home user. Performs measurements up to 30 meters. Can work indoors and outdoors. Although on a sunny day the laser pointer is not so visible. However, this is the specificity of all analogues. The measurement error here is slightly higher than competitors at 3 mm, but again, when used for routine repairs, this is not critical. There are only three buttons on the case. The main one turns on the device, the second is responsible for changing functions, and the third turns off the power. If you do not use the device for a minute, the backlight will go off, and after another two it will turn itself off. The display is contrasting, all indicators are displayed on two lines: the current result and the previous one. The case has rubber protectors to protect against falls. Also, the device is not afraid of splashes of water and raindrops. Models available for purchase in 2022 have a choice of units of measurement. This device did not have this before. However, the relevance of the new product for the Russian market is debatable: we always use the metric, not the foot, system.

Characteristics

Additional information: laser, two reference points, shockproof housing, built-in memory, battery powered, 120 g.

Ergonomic

Consumes batteries quickly

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5.RESANTA DL-30 (from 2.2 thousand rubles)

RESANTA DL-30.
Photo: market.yandex This is the youngest model in the line of the Russian brand. If you want a more powerful device, then pay attention to the DL-40 or DL-60 models - they have a longer range - 40 and 60 meters, respectively. A top-end device is approximately 1000 rubles more expensive. But we still recognize the younger device as the best rangefinder for 2022. True, it does not have a backlight, which complicates work in the dark. But the advantage over competitors is the ability to choose not two, but three reference points: at the bottom, top of the device, or in the middle - if placed on a tripod. The thread here is 1/4 - the same on all modern devices for cameras and cameras. Information can be displayed on the screen in meters, feet, inches. There are 20 cells in memory - a good indicator. It’s a pity that you can’t make any notes on them and will have to remember them.

Characteristics

Additional information: laser, three reference points, built-in memory, battery powered, 76 g.

Convenient button placement

No backlight

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SNDWAY SW-T40 (from 2 thousand rubles)

SNDWAY SW-T40.
Photo: market.yandex Chinese device, the company specializes in producing various rangefinders. This model is the most affordable in the line. If you order it from China, it will be 500 rubles cheaper than buying it in our stores. But you will have to wait for delivery. Due to their availability, such devices are often purchased by construction teams. In reviews, buyers praise the build quality: there are no backlashes, the parts are firmly adjacent to each other. The device runs on standard AAA “little finger” batteries. When you first take one in your hand, you are alarmed by the abundance of keys. There are seven of them here. Located at a decent distance to prevent accidental pressing. An interesting feature is a click after pressing - so that a person wearing work gloves can understand that the device has worked. True, there are complaints about the quality of the coating and paint - there is a high risk that the marking will come off with intensive use. One of the main quality criteria for the best rangefinders 2022 is speed. This one performs calculations quickly.

Characteristics

Additional information: laser, two reference points, built-in memory, battery powered, 110 g.

Speed ​​metering

Doesn't measure from corners

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INSTRUMAX SNIPER 30 (from 2 thousand rubles)

INSTRUMAX SNIPER 30. Photo: market.yandex
The manufacturing company is from Russia, but orders its products from China. The device is not particularly notable for its characteristics. But it is easy to use. The housing is protected from dust and splashes. If you do not press anything for three minutes, the laser roulette will turn off. According to the instructions, one battery charge is enough for five thousand measurements. There is a battery status indicator. We recommend this rangefinder primarily not for professional teams, but for private use: housework, repairs. From older devices, the functions of tracking and measuring the volume of a room have migrated here. The backlight is constantly on, and since the display is liquid crystal - like on electronic bowls - it does not waste a lot of energy.

Characteristics

Additional information: laser, two reference points, shockproof housing, built-in memory, battery powered, 100 g.

Bright laser

Judging by the reviews, it often fails after the warranty expires.

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ELITECH LD 80Prof (from 3.8 thousand rubles)

ELITECH LD 80Prof.
Photo: market.yandex Among other rangefinders in the brand’s line, this is the most expensive. All because of the record range of 80 meters. Analogues of famous brands charge one and a half to two times higher prices for this opportunity. Although the device is budget, its characteristics are at the same level. The same measurement error is only 1.5 mm. The device is capable of performing 8,000 operations on one set of batteries. The representative of the best rangefinders of 2022 is able to take continuous measurements, and is equipped with a folding bracket to place it on corners. The display has a backlight. It’s great that the numbers themselves light up in blue, which, unlike standard black, is much better when it comes to measurements in bright daylight. The manufacturer puts the bag with a cover in the box. The weight of the device is slightly higher than its competitors, but not critical. Clear menu and the entire interface as a whole.

Characteristics

Additional information: laser, two reference points, built-in memory, battery powered, 139 g.

Top performance at a low price

Inconvenient battery compartment

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Leica DISTO D510 (from 46.2 thousand rubles)

Leica DISTO D510.
Photo: market.yandex When we prepare our reviews, we try to give readers not just a list of the most preferred models, but also introduce them to all the diversity of the device market. When working on material about the best rangefinders of 2022, we could not help but talk about a professional device. There is no point in buying one for household use. But if, in your line of work, maximum accuracy, convenience and speed of measurements are important to you, then you should take a closer look at this Leika. It has 14 measurement modes, and the error does not exceed 1 mm. Serious protection against moisture and dirt. Built-in digital camera and Bluetooth module to synchronize with the application. Maximum distance up to 200 meters. Smart Horizontal mode allows measurements over obstacles. The only complaints from users are about the convenience of the case and the tight buttons.

Characteristics

Additional information: laser, four reference points, built-in memory, shockproof housing, battery powered, 198 g.

The most powerful device among all rangefinders

High price

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Nikon Forestry Pro (from 23 thousand rubles)

Nikon Forestry Pro.
Photo: market.yandex A rare representative of an optical rangefinder today. You can read about their advantages below in the section where we will talk about how to choose a device. This device is intended primarily for use in forestry, for example to determine the height of a tree. One of the newest models as of 2022. Capable of measuring at three points: corners and horizon. There is a target priority system: you select one of the farthest points that the device has captured. The result is shown on both the internal and external LCD monitor. The internal one is less informative, but allows you to read all the indicators without taking your eyes off. The monocular has a six-fold magnification and consists of several layers of optics so that the brightness does not drop. You can also work with it wearing glasses. The design is waterproof. At a depth of one meter, the device can withstand up to 10 minutes. Although it is not intended for use underwater.

Characteristics

Additional information: optical, single reference point, battery powered, 210 g.

High-end optics

Too complex for home use

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Laser levels

Laser technologies have widely and powerfully entered human life, initially as military developments, but over time they have become available to peaceful professions, industries, and areas:

• medicine;
• mechanical engineering;
• rocket science and beyond almost everywhere.

One of the many advantages that the laser has provided to builders is the ability to quickly measure quantities and construct vertical and horizontal reference points, which are necessary for the production of smooth surfaces that correspond to these same vertical and horizontal parameters.

I would like to note that manufacturers of laser equipment, to put it mildly, do not suffer from monotony and offer to the market many models with various characteristics and parameters.

Laser rangefinders (laser tape measure), laser levels (laser level), crossliners (static plotter) or multiprism plotter, static axis plotter (pointer or point laser), rotary plotter (plane plotter) or multiprism plotter or level, etc.

How wonderful it was before. What did the builders use, the result of whose work we still admire: a thread plumb, a hydraulic level, some kind of mensula, alidade or kipregel (these are censored words, if that).

Sophisticated and high-tech laser devices are designed to facilitate the processes of measurement and marking:

• using a laser level saves time (those who have used a hydraulic level, especially with walls of complex geometry, will appreciate this);
• manufacturers claim accuracy of a few tenths of a millimeter per meter;
• modern devices are self-adjusting using servos and inclinometers-slope sensors (this is already high technology);
• the projected laser lines are clearly distinguishable and visible;
• possibility of operation by one person (the classic level and hydraulic level are serviced by two specialists);
• Using a laser level does not require special knowledge or long training.

The use of a laser level is intended to simplify measurement processes and replace such classical devices as an optical level, tape measure, hydraulic level, theodolite, plumb line, etc.

Leveling mechanism for laser levels

Laser level ELITECH LN 15.4x1.5V (AA), 30\55m, ±1\5m, 1.2kg, horizontal/vertical beam, 2 plumb points, universal bracket, box, case
Laser levels are divided into two groups according to the type of leveling:

• with manual leveling;
• self-leveling.

Laser levels with manual leveling

Laser levels (levels) with manual leveling, in this part, are similar to classic optical levels and their leveling mechanism is based on the use of a bubble level built into their body.

In the presence of a tribrach (a rotating stand-plate with three lifting screws) equipped with a bubble level, we obtain (after alignment in two perpendicular planes) a horizontal plane. A laser level placed on a horizontal plane will project a horizontal beam in the form of a point onto vertical surfaces.

All laser points will, naturally, lie in the same horizontal plane and make it possible to mark it (to hit the level).

Self-leveling laser levels (levels)

In turn, self-leveling laser levels are divided into:

• pendulum (with a self-leveling pendulum mechanism);
• electronic (with an electronic self-leveling mechanism).

To bring the pendulum self-leveling level into working condition, it is necessary to unlock the pendulum mechanism, which (to avoid damage) is fixed in a stationary state during transportation.

A few seconds after unlocking the pendulum mechanism, the laser level is ready for use and projects the horizontal and vertical axes onto the wall.

The fundamental self-leveling mechanism of this type is based on the property of the pendulum to occupy a strictly vertical position after the vibrations have damped.

Naturally, the mechanisms of this design have self-alignment limits and they are within angular limits of 3-6 degrees (the more the better).

To speed up the damping of vibrations, magnets are placed at the base of the pendulum mechanism.

The pendulum with attached and adjusted laser emitters aligns itself under its own weight.

In order to give the laser level the correct spatial position (within the boundaries of self-leveling), simple bubble levels are installed on the device body.

Self-leveling laser levels with electronic self-leveling mechanism

Laser levels with an electronic self-leveling mechanism are entire processor systems, high-tech and expensive.

After preliminary installation of the laser device, within the boundaries of self-leveling, the processor of the electronic compensation system, in relation to the received data from inclinometers (slope sensors), controls the servomotors that drive the self-leveling mechanism.

After a few seconds, the device is ready for use and projects strictly vertical and horizontal rays onto the surface.

How to choose a rangefinder

We talked about the best rangefinders that will be presented on the Russian market in 2022. Vsevolod Zaitsev, an employee of the online hypermarket VseInstrumenty.ru , to advise readers on how to choose a device

Optical rangefinder

Areas of application : sports, hunting, tourism, construction.

Prices : from 7500 rub. up to 20,000 rub.

It is also called light. The principle of measurement is visual guidance to the object. Depending on the speed at which light travels to the object and back, the distance is determined. Inside there is a photoreceiving element and a time determination device. The user sees the final distance in the eyepiece.

The optical rangefinder is capable of operating at long distances, for example, on the RGK D600 model it reaches 600 m with a reflector. Also, some instruments are capable of measuring the distance to a moving target.

Laser rangefinder

Areas of application : construction, renovation, interior decoration, installation work.

Prices : from 2,000 rub. up to 100,000 rub.

Also refers to the light type. However, it also emits visible radiation. Due to this, it is much more convenient to “catch” the measurement point, since there is a target indicator. The laser rangefinder also functions as a calculator and data storage. The user can calculate the area or volume of an object. The values ​​are displayed on the display, and the battery charge is enough for 5000 measurements.

The measurement range can be from 20 to 100 m. Larger values ​​are needed for outdoor work. It is important to pay attention to the error. For example, for the ADA Cosmo MINI it is 3 mm, which is quite acceptable for home repairs. If you need a more accurate rangefinder, consider the CONDTROL Smart 60 with 1.5mm accuracy. It’s good if the device has several measurement points - from the front or rear edge of the case, or also from the remote heel for hard-to-reach places and corners.

What features to look for when buying a rangefinder

• The number of modes depends on your tasks.
• Maximum distance: if you work only indoors, then a minimum of 30 meters will be enough.
• Rubberized body to protect against drops and splashes.
• Convenience of the battery compartment - for many devices it is difficult to open.
• Number of buttons and ease of pressing. Decide how comfortable you will be: switch everything with one key or have a separate one for each mode.
• A sound signal indicates the end of the measurement, because the display is not always in front of your eyes.
• The device's memory, so as not to rewrite the values ​​immediately, but to enter them later.
• The backlight of the display and the size of the numbers are important for people with poor vision and for those who will work outdoors.

This is interesting
The best laser levels

Combined laser levels

Linear laser level SLL-2, STAYER 34960-H2

Combined models, when installed horizontally, are leveled by an electronic or pendulum system, and when installed vertically, alignment occurs manually, according to a level built into the housing.

The most affordable and simple laser levels are devices that require manual leveling. They have a minimum of electronics and mechanics, therefore they are the most unpretentious to handle and store.

Self-leveling pendulum levels are more expensive than laser levels with manual leveling, but, naturally, cheaper than professional, high-tech levels with an electronic leveling system.

Self-leveling laser levels are manufactured in sealed housings that prevent moisture and dust from entering.

Classification of laser levels according to the characteristics of laser beams

Laser levels are also divided by type of beam into:

• point;
• linear (plane builders);
• rotary;
• combined.

The simplest and most affordable, point laser levels are equipped with one or more laser diodes that emit laser beams.

When laser beams hit an obstacle, they form a laser mark with which measurements can be taken (at reasonable distances).

Linear laser levels (plane builders) are also equipped with one or more laser diodes that emit vertical and horizontal laser planes. When projected onto obstacles, laser planes create visible horizontal and vertical lines that can be used at varying distances from the plane builder.

When working over long distances and in sunlight, where the laser beam may not be visible, a laser beam receiver can be used to make the laser mark easier to detect.

Laser glasses, contrary to popular belief, do not protect the eyes from laser exposure, but by transmitting only red light they make it possible to clearly see the projections of laser beams in bright light.

Rotary laser levels

Laser level ELITECH LN 3.2x1.5V (AA), 20m, ±1.5\5m, 0.25kg, horizontal/vertical beam, core, case

After the horizontal alignment of the laser level, the rotation mode is activated and the head of the laser level begins to rotate at high speed, turning the projection of the horizontal beam from a point into a pulsating line on the obstacle.

The rotation of the laser emitter head gives the family of rotary laser levels its name.

A glass prism divides one beam from a laser diode into two mutually perpendicular ones (one produces a horizontal beam, which when rotated turns into a horizontal plane, the other produces a vertical beam, with a point on the ceiling (plumb line)).

If necessary, rotary levels can not build the entire circular horizontal plane, but only a directed horizontal sector, which will be projected on the wall in the form of a horizontal line.

This mode is called scanning and is used when using a laser receiver over long distances, in order to increase the power of laser radiation for reliable reception by the laser receiver.

Also, the rotary level can be switched to operating mode with a stationary laser beam (a point in the projection).

Combined linear-rotary laser levels

The use of linear-rotating laser levels allows you to simultaneously build a whole combination of planes using static and rotating lasers. Linear - point constructs, respectively, static lines and points.