Self-Leveling
Affiliate link — we may earn a commissionA self-leveling laser uses an internal pendulum or gimbal to automatically find true level within a range of about 4 degrees. Set the tool on a surface that's roughly level, and it adjusts itself. If the surface is too far off (beyond the self-leveling range), the laser blinks or shuts off to warn you. Manual-leveling lasers require you to adjust bubble vials by hand. Self-leveling saves setup time and eliminates human error on the bubble vial. Most construction-grade lasers are self-leveling now.
Why It Matters
A manual level requires you to check the bubble, adjust, recheck, and lock. Every time you move the tool, you do it again. Self-leveling does this automatically in 2 to 3 seconds. On a job where you're repositioning the laser dozens of times, the time savings are substantial.