Laser Tape Measures are great tools for quickly and accurately measuring distances. With laser tape measures getting cheaper all the time they are getting more popular. Deciding to buy a laser tape measure can be a tricky decision to make. Choosing which one to buy can be even more daunting.
Through this article I hope to make your decision a whole lot easier. I am going to recommend 5 of the best laser tape measures available to buy today.
A Laser Tape Measure does the same job as a standard Tape Measure, but it uses a laser to measure the distance instead of the physical steel or fibre of a traditional graduated tape measure. They use the same technology found in reflectorless total stations. By emitting a beam of laser light and measuring the time it takes to be reflected back off a surface the Laser Tape Measure can work out the distance accurately.
Why should you believe the recommendations that I am about to give? I have owned and used laser tape measures for well over 16 years now.
What considerations should be made before buying a laser tape measure?
First you must decide if a laser tape measure is worth it. There is no point in buying a laser tape measure unless it is going to make your job/life easier. To help answer that question there is a useful article on this website to help you. Is buying a laser tape measure worth it?
Now that you have decided that you need a laser tape measure your next decision will be what kind of laser tape measure you want.
Factors worth considering when choosing a laser tape measure.
- Will the laser tape measure be used outside?
- What is the maximum distance to be measured?
- What accuracy do the measurements need to be?
- Are any special functions needed?
- Does it need to connect to any mobile apps?
5 of the Best Laser Tape Measures of 2022.
Leica Disto D510 – The Best Laser Tape Measure
Leica Disto X3 – Best All-Round Laser Tape Measure
Mileseey S2 – Best Budget Laser Tape Measure
Huepar T7 – Best Value Laser Tape Measure
Bosch GLM 50 C – Best Lightweight Laser Tape Measure
Best Budget Laser Tape Measure. Mileseey S2.
The Mileseey S2 has to be the best budget laser tape measure of these 5. I was impressed by just how good this laser tape measure was for the price.
I actually bought this laser tape measure from Amazon to see if cheap laser tape measures were any good. In fact I bought 3, brand new cheap laser tape measures. I tested them against each other and against a reference laser tape measure, my Leica Disto A5.
For me, accuracy is one of the biggest selection criteria. I found the Mileseey S2 to be just as accurate as my Leica Disto A5.I compared it against my Leica Disto A5 and found that it gave the same distance. This test was done straight out of the box. No adjustment to the Mileseey S2 laser tape measure was required.
For me, accuracy is the most important feature of any laser tape measure. If the measurements it is providing aren’t correct, then whatever you are trying to fit or make or cut just won’t work. And that will be highly frustrating. It will most certainly be costly.
The accuracy quoted for the Mileseey S2 laser tape measure is plus or minus 2mm. I found it to be well within that range with the measurements I have been taking over the last couple of weeks.
The quoted measurement range for the Mileseey S2 50m/165ft laser tape measure is 50m or 165ft. When I tested it against a cream-coloured brick wall I could only achieve a distance of 48.728m. This is a little bit short of the quoted range. While disappointing, I am not unduly concerned at this short fall in range.
Most laser tape manufacturers will quote the maximum range in favourable conditions. These will be low light and a good reflective surface. The test I did was during the day and on to a surface that would be measured against in the real world.
Of the three cheap laser tape measures I bought, the Mileseey S2 is my favourite. It is the one I would buy again if I was wanting a budget laser tape measure.
- ✦ PRACTICAL FUNCTION & HIGHER ACCURACY - Measuring range 50m/165ft,accuracy: ±1/16 inch,unit:m / in / ft / ft + in,and distance, area, volume, Pythagoras (indirect measurement), continuous measurement, addition and subtraction, maximum values and minimum, can meet your different needs.With unique 2 Bubble Levels, providing more precise measurement compared to one bubble.
- ✦ LARGE LCD BACKLIGHT SCREEN & Mute Setting - Large backlight screen provides users with a better visibility.Mute setting allows your different needs .With accuracy up to ±1/16inch, the portable laser measure can perfectly finish a measure task ranging from 0.16 to 165 feet. Also 4 interchangeable units among m / in / ft/ ft+in are designed for people with different reading habits.
- ✦ EASY TO USE - Handy and compact mode provide good operating feeling; IP54 waterproof level and dust-proof function protect the laser distance measure to the maximum extent,It's suitable to use everywhere.
- ✦ WIDE APPLICATION - With multiple measurement modes like distance, volume, area measurement, continuous measurement and measurement by Pythagoras, the laser level is ideal for home, construction and industries, especially in large areas such as rooms, apartments, buildings, real estates, factories, warehouses, etc.
- ✦ Package Contents & Warranty - 1*S2 50m/165ft Laser Distance Meter; 2 AAA Batteries; Package Box; User Manual; 30-Day RETURN refund guarantee.
Three Cheap Laser Tape Measures Tested.
Best All-Round Laser Tape Measure. Leica Disto X3.
The best all-round laser tape measure is the Leica Disto X3. Recently released by Leica the disto X3 is a rugged site tough laser tape measure. New features for the Leica Disto X3 include a display that rotates, and it can withstand a drop of 2m.
I think the Leica Disto X3 offers an excellent combination of features at an affordable price. Suitable for both the enthusiastic DIYer and the professional person too.
I must admit that I am a fan of Leica. And my bias comes from using Leica products for many many years without trouble. The Leica Disto in my opinion is the best laser tape measure available today. The Leica Disto was the one of the first laser tape measures to come to the market and is still the best one today. I have had a Leica Disto since 2007 and never had any trouble with it.
The Leica Disto X3 can measure up to 150m. This is in favourable conditions and to surfaces that reflect the laser beam well. Favourable conditions are most likely to be indoors. This is also where surfaces will be easy to measure to.
The quoted accuracy for the Leica Disto X3 is plus or minus 1.0mm. This is class leading accuracy.
The Leica Disto X has an IP65 Rating. This means that all the Leica Disto D2 dust tight and protected from water from water jets. Leica say that the Disto X3 is an indoor laser tape measure, but with an IP65 rating I would say that it competent outdoors too. Just do not store it in a wet condition. Always dry of the Disto before putting away.
The standout feature of all Leica Disto’s is the flip out end piece. This allows you to measure from both internal and external corners easily and accurately. And for the new X3 this end piece has been made longer. This makes corner measurements easier. When the end piece is being used the Leica Disto automatically incorporates the additional length into the measurement.
There is also the Leica Sketch App that is available on both apple and android smart phones.
With all these extra features and being site tough, the Leica Disto X3 deserves to be the best all-round laser tape measure.
Recently released by Leica the disto X3 is a rugged site tough laser tape measure. New features for the Leica Disto X3 include a display that rotates, and it can withstand a drop of 2m.
The quoted accuracy for the Leica Disto X3 is plus or minus 1.0mm. This is class leading accuracy.
The Leica Disto X3 can measure up to 150m.
With all these extra features and being site tough, the Leica Disto X3 deserves to be the best all-round laser tape measure.
The Best Laser Tape Measure. Leica Disto D510.
For me, the best laser tape measure would be the Leica Disto D510. When I buy a new laser tape measure it will be this one. I use laser tape measures nearly everyday in my job, along with total stations and gps surveying equipment.
The best feature of the Leica Disto D510 must be the camera and screen. Being able to see what you are measuring to can be a big help. When measuring long distances outside it can be difficult to see the red laser dot from the tape measure. Unless the surface being measured is very reflective it is almost impossible to see the laser dot over 20m away.
The Leica Disto D510 can measure up to 200m. This is in favourable conditions and to surfaces that reflect the laser beam well. Favourable conditions are most likely to be indoors. This is also where surfaces will be easy to measure to.
The quoted accuracy for the Leica Disto D510 is plus or minus 1.0mm. This is for measurements in a range from 0.050m to 200m.
The Leica Disto D510 is significantly more expensive. But for the increased range, accuracy and features I think it is a must for anyone that must take accurate measurements. This is one is the one if you are serious about your measurements.
The standout feature of all Leica Disto’s is the flip out end piece. This allows you to measure from both internal and external corners easily and accurately. When the end piece is being used the Leica Disto automatically incorporates the additional length into the measurement.
There is also the Leica Sketch App that is available on both apple and android smart phones.
- Precise distance measurement - quicker than using a measuring tape
- You can set it to use different tilt units. Select in the settings “Units inclination” and choose between ° , %, in/ft and mm/m
- Full colour screen and digital Pointfinder with 4x zoom - perfect for outdoor use
- Extremely robust, designed for use on construction sites. IP65 Rating
- Bluetooth Smart Ready so it easily transfers measuring information to other devices such as the iPad and iPhone simply and can be used with the Leica Disto Sketch app
Best Value Laser Tape Measure. Huepar T7.
I think the Huepar T7 is the best value laser tape measure of these 5. Due to the many features and the companion app that is available. It is also the cheapest laser tape measure that I know of that has a camera and screen like the Leica Disto D510 has.
The Huepar T7 can measure up to 90m (295ft). This is in favourable conditions and to surfaces that reflect the laser beam well. Favourable conditions are most likely to be indoors. This is also where surfaces will be easy to measure to.
The quoted accuracy for the Huepar T7 is plus or minus 2.0mm. This is comparable to the Mileseey S2 but is less accurate than the Leica Distos.
The best feature on this laser tape measure is the camera and screen that allows you to see what you are aiming at. This is a massive plus point for anyone taking longer measurements. The screen has two magnification modes, 2x and 4x.
This laser tape measure has a whopping 1000-point memory. This is a very handy feature for checking back over all your measurements. But if you can remember where you took all those 1000 measurements you will be doing very well…
The associated app is called Joyplan and is available for apple and android smartphones. I have not used the Joyplan app and therefore cannot recommend or comment on its usefulness or usability.
- CAMERA WITH 2X/4X ZOOM: This laser measure adopted a point finder camera with 2X/4X adjustable zoom, allowing you to target the destination point precisely with the crosshair in the display, even when working in areas with restricted visibility. It also has IP65 water protection with a dust tight design that can withstand the harsh working environment. (The LM90C is mainly designed for indoor use. To use it outdoors, please make sure it is not under direct sunlight)
- TRIPLE POWER TECHNOLOGY: The laser distance measure can be powered by the included 3 rechargeable Ni-MH batteries(can be replaced by other types of rechargeable batteries) or 3 AAA alkaline batteries. Similar to your mobile phone, the USB port ensures the fast charging of the rechargeable batteries. In addition, the laser tool can be directly connected to the power supply for use. Triple power technology delivers remarkable runtime for all-day jobs.
- WIDE APPLICATIONS: The laser distance meter measures long range up to 656Ft with 1/13-inch accuracy. It provides 17 measurement modes, including length, area (square/triangle/circular), volume (cuboid/cylinder), 3 Pythagoras, indirect length/height, 3D point to point, 2 trapezium, Stake Out, add/subtract and continuous measurement. The distance measure is ideal for home, construction and industries, especially in large areas such as rooms, apartments, buildings, factories, warehouses, etc.
- MULTIPLE PRACTICAL FUNCTIONS: The laser measure features a handy pocket-size design to fit in any pocket. A built-in inclinometer determines the angle of pitch and a digital bubble level to confirm if the tool is level. Up to 1000 historical records can be stored. It also has more practical features like rotating backlit colour display, 180s auto switch-off, m/ft/in/ft+in unit, time delay measurement, self-calibration, 3 reference point and 1/4 inch tripod mounting thread.
- VALUE-ADDED FEATURES: Stake Out feature helps you save time and boost accuracy when setting out and marking positions for stud framing or other stake-outs. All the six surfaces of the meter can be laid flat on the surface plus the digital horizontal bubble makes the meter have the simple function of a level ruler. 3D Measuring (Point to Point) can indirectly measure the distance between any two points. This is a revolutionary feature, which is effective and optimizes your workflow.
Best Lightweight Laser Tape Measure. Bosch GLM 50 C.
The best lightweight laser tape measure is the Bosch GLM 50 C. It weighs just 100g (3.5oz). This laser tape measure is so light you barely notice the weight in your hand. But being lightweight shouldn’t impact on accuracy or quality.
There are laser tape measures that weigh less, like the Atolla T201. It weighs just 85g, but it is now way near as competent as the Bosch GLM 50 C. I was not impressed with the Atolla T201 and you can read my thoughts on it in the Atolla T201 Review.
Not only is the Bosch GLM 50 C a lightweight laser tape measure it also boasts a colour screen and an inclinometer. If you need an inclinometer as well as a laser tape measure, then this device is for you.
It also has Bluetooth communication available. This works with the MeasureOn app that is available free for apple and android smartphones. It does have in app purchases though.
The Bosch GLM 50 C can measure up to 50m (150ft). This is in favourable conditions and to surfaces that reflect the laser beam well. Favourable conditions are most likely to be indoors. This is also where surfaces will be easy to measure to.
The quoted accuracy for the Bosch GLM 50 C is plus or minus 1.5mm. This is better than the Mileseey and the Huepar laser tape measures and equivalent to the Leica Disto D2.
- CONNECTIVITY: Bosch laser measure GLM 50 C with Bluetooth, stake-out function and 360° inclination sensor for easy angle measurement
- CONNECTIVITY + MEASUREON APP: Easy on-site documentation of floor plans, measurements, photos, and notes with cloud-based project access anywhere on all devices.
- INTUITIVE DISPLAY: Illuminated colour display with automatic alignment and overview of all functions of the rangefinder
- TECHNICAL DATA: IP 54, measuring range up to 50 m, laser class 2, measuring accuracy ± 1.5 mm and ± 0.2°, data transfer via Bluetooth
- ITEMS INCLUDED: Bosch Professional laser measure GLM 50 C, 2 x 1.5 V LR03 (AAA) batteries, protective bag
Verdict.
All of these laser tape measures are great devices and will be a benefit to you. They are great for measuring distances by yourself. And you will get better results from longer measurements than you would from a standard tape measure.
If you will be measuring from corners or from wall edges a lot, then I would highly recommend the Leica Disto models. These have the adjustable end piece that allows easy measurement from internal or external corners. What’s more is that the Leica Distos automatically adjust the measurement to suit the position of the end adapter.
Worth Considering. Leica Disto D2.
I think the Leica Disto D2 is still worth considering, if you can get it. I think it will be phased out soon. Leica are the class leaders when it comes to laser tape measures. The Leica Disto in my opinion is the best laser tape measure available today. The Leica Disto was the one of the first laser tape measures to come to the market and is still the best one today. I have had a Leica Disto since 2007 and never had any trouble with it.
I think the Leica Disto D2 offers an excellent combination of features at an affordable price. Suitable for both the enthusiastic DIYer and the professional person too.
The Leica Disto D2 can measure up to 100m. This is in favourable conditions and to surfaces that reflect the laser beam well. Favourable conditions are most likely to be indoors. This is also where surfaces will be easy to measure to.
The quoted accuracy for the Leica Disto D2 is plus or minus 1.5mm. This is for measurements in a range from 0.050m to 100m.
The Leica Disto D2 has an IP54 Rating. This means that all the Leica Disto D2 offers partial protection from dust that might harm the level and protected from water splashes with limited ingress and no harmful effects. The Leica Disto D2 is construction site tough. Just do not store it in a wet condition. Always dry of the Disto before putting away.
The standout feature of all Leica Disto’s is the flip out end piece. This allows you to measure from both internal and external corners easily and accurately. When the end piece is being used the Leica Disto automatically incorporates the additional length into the measurement.
There is also the Leica Sketch App that is available on both apple and android smart phones.
- Bluetooth Smart (4.0)
- Measure areas and volumes
- Flip-out end-piece – For measuring from edges or corners
- Pythagorean functions - Indirect width and height measurements for inaccessible positions
- Leica Disto Sketch
Related Articles
Are Cheap Laser Tape Measures any Good?
Beginners guide to laser tape measures
Review of the Mileseey S2 laser tape measure
The purpose and importance of laser tape measures
