How Well Do Laser Measure Apps Work

Laser measuring tools: Like normal measuring tools, but way more convenient. If you're tired of dragging your old tape measure from point A to point B every time you need a simple measurement, you really should consider getting the laser variety for yourself.

laser measuring tool

First of all, a laser measuring tool makes quick—and accurate—work of a task that's traditionally laborious and prone to human error. In addition, there are some laser measuring tools out there that can take other measurements (such as area and volume), which would be a pain in the behind to find using just a tape measure.

This article will discuss the different aspects you need to consider when shopping for such a tool and cover our top picks. By the time you're done reading, you'll be much better equipped to make an informed purchase!

Our Top Picks

Best For: Accurate small-scale measurements – Bosch GLM 20 Blaze 65' Laser Distance Measure

What it lacks in bells and whistles, this laser measuring tool from Bosch makes up for in accuracy and affordability.

Best For: Diverse features at a low price – POPOMAN 196Ft USB Rechargeable Laser Measure

Compared to others on our list, this measure from POPOMAN provides the best accuracy and set of features for the lowest price.

Best For: DIYers and amateur professionals – Tacklife 196Ft Classic Laser Measure

This laser measure from Tacklife provides fairly accurate readings for daily measurement tasks, as well as a variety of practical features.

Best For: Long-term durability – Atolla 196Ft Laser Measure

Its PC and ABS construction combine with an IP54 rating to create a durable and reasonably accurate laser measure.

Best For: Longer measurements – Leica DISTO D2 New 330ft Laser Distance Measure with Bluetooth

This laser distance measure from Leica provides not only a longer range than the others on our list, but also incorporates modern features such as Bluetooth.

Best For: Simple measurements – DEWALT 100-Feet Laser Measure Tool with Bluetooth

This laser measurement tool from DEWALT may be simple in design, but it provides accurate measurements and is built to last.

Best For: Getting the best of both worlds – TOOLTOO 2-in-1 Laser Tape Measure

In addition to fantastic accuracy and a user-friendly design, this dream team of a tool houses both a laser measure and a tape measure.

Best For: Attractive design coupled with great accuracy – Tavool 196Ft Laser Tape Measure

Beneath its iPod-esque appearance, this laser tape measure from Tavool has all the works you need to get the job done.

Best For: Huge memory storage – TECCPO 196ft Rechargeable Laser Measure

This laser measure from TECCPO combines a range of essential features with a ginormous 99-set memory capacity—yes, we're serious!

Best For: Taking traditionally difficult measurements – MOTORHEAD 196Ft Laser Measure

This laser measure from MOTORHEAD turns difficult measurements into child's play with its "nano measurement point" and additional user-oriented features.

How to Choose a Laser Measuring Tool for Your Needs

Accuracy

The number-one thing to consider when shopping for a laser measuring tool is how accurate it is. As mentioned earlier, the average laser measuring tool is accurate to an eighth of an inch. If you require better accuracy for a project and have a little more cash to spend, you can opt for ones that measure to one-sixteenth of an inch.

Range

The range of a laser measuring tool is how far the laser can measure while still providing accurate results. Most of the time, you will see laser measuring tools marketed as having a certain accuracy per range. Fifty feet is the standard range, though you can also find laser measuring tools that are capable of measuring much greater distances (with 196- and 320-foot ranges being common); those that are designed to measure these longer distances tend to be more accurate overall.

Functionality

Functionality refers to any additional functions of the measuring unit, as well as any features that add to its functionality. In today's world, there are quite a few functionality options you should look for in a laser measuring tool depending on your needs:

Pythagorean Mode

Units with a Pythagorean Mode option allow you to quickly take measurements that would otherwise be much more difficult. Laser measuring tools are designed to measure a straight line, from one point to another—but sometimes, the straight-line measurement you need to take is not ideal for "bouncing" the laser.

Imagine needing to measure the height of a three-story house. Without the Pythagorean Mode, you would need to climb onto the roof and shoot the laser down toward the ground—both inconvenient and dangerous. But with the Pythagorean Mode, you can simply input the angle and the distance of another straight line (remember that the Pythagorean Theorem deals with triangles) in order to get the height measurement.

Memory

You shouldn't have to stop every few seconds to write down measurements—or, God forbid, try to memorize them. This is 2021, gosh darn it!

Do yourself a favor and purchase a laser measuring tool with memory capabilities. This will give you the option to store measurement numbers on the device itself, meaning less paper and fewer hand cramps from writing—and a lot less frustration.

Calculator

You can find laser measuring tools with inbuilt calculators that measure the area of a room based on the height and width measurements. This is a handy feature to have, but not always necessary.

Bluetooth

No, Bluetooth functionality will not allow you to talk with your grandmother while you're on the job (you'll have to do that later, bless your heart). Laser measuring tools that feature Bluetooth functionality allow you to transfer measurement data from the measuring device to any other device of your choosing. Super-convenient, especially if you need to report these numbers to a teammate!

Additional Measurements

As mentioned, some units feature an inbuilt calculator for taking additional measurements. These calculators can most often measure area as well as volume.

Battery

Before making your purchase, ensure the unit's battery life and battery type are suitable for your needs. While some units run on AA or AAA batteries that need to be replaced, others are rechargeable. Depending on how and how often you'll be using your laser measuring tool, the rechargeable option may be more convenient for you and—though more expensive—save you money in the long run. Different models feature different battery life estimates, though you can normally expect around four or five hours of runtime for rechargeable units.

Display

The display is something you may not pay much attention to when you start shopping around, but trust us when we say a good display screen is essential when taking measurements. The most important thing is that the screen is easy for you to read; the specifics are less important. That said, most people prefer larger-sized, backlit LCD screens which are notoriously easy to read.

The type of display you opt for should also be dictated by the environment you intend to use the product. For example, if you know you'll be doing lots of outdoor work with the laser measuring tool, try to find one with a nonglare screen that's easy to read in bright lighting.

Protection Rating

The protection rating is most important if you plan on using the tool outdoors a lot. You will find the protection rating listed in the following format: IP**. The asterisks will be replaced by one number each, with the first number representing the unit's protection against solids and the second number representing its protection against liquids. The higher the better.

You should look for a laser measuring tool with an IP54 rating or higher, which ensures the unit is adequately dust- and water-resistant.

Budget

Of course, when it comes to buying tools, you can't overlook your budget. Try to find a product that meets all of your needs and most of your preferences, at a price you can afford.

Prices vary greatly depending on factors such as brand, additional features, and overall quality. You can purchase a decent unit at anywhere from $40 to $100, though prices can skyrocket to the hundreds and even thousands for top-notch units.

The Best Laser Measuring Tools

Bosch GLM 20 Blaze 65′ Laser Distance Measure

The GLM 20 Blaze 65' Laser Distance Measure from Bosch is ideal for the professional or hobbyist who needs accurate measurements at an affordable price. This tool has an accuracy of 1/8-inch for 65' and offers three different measure reading options—meters, feet + inches, and only inches—so you can get the most convenient measurement format for your project. In addition, you're assured measurements in real time and will be able to read them easily from the unit's backlit display. Regardless of how experienced you are with measuring tools, you'll appreciate how straightforward its one-button operation makes the entire process. We think you'll love this tool, but if not, it does come with a 90-day warranty. What are you waiting for?

Pros:

3 measurement reading options
One-button operation
Extremely portable
Measures in real time
Backlit display

Cons:

Button in less-than-ideal location
Not great for larger measuring jobs

196Ft USB Rechargeable POPOMAN Laser

Let's set the scene: You need a laser measure that will provide accurate measurements and last for the long haul. But your bank account is looking a little…empty. Should you resort to a normal tape measure until the goose is hanging high once again?

No, friend. You should consider purchasing this super-affordable yet surprisingly high-quality rechargeable laser measure from POPOMAN.

This unit can make measurements up to 196 feet with an accuracy of 1/16 of an inch, offers four measurement reading options (meters, inches, feet, and feet + inches), and can take additional measurements (including Pythagoras and angle measurements). It also boasts several useful features, including a mute function for quiet operation and a fast-charging lithium battery. For functionality you can depend on at a steal of a price, look no further.

Pros:

Fast-charging lithium battery
1/16-inch accuracy
Measures in real time
4 measurement reading options
Can take additional measurements
Mute function
Very affordable

Cons:

Not great for outdoor use
Some functions are hard to utilize

Tacklife HD60 Classic Laser Measure

Tacklife has done it again: created a practical tool with quality features at an affordable price. This is one of the best laser measuring tools out there for the avid DIYer or amateur professional, using two bubble levels to give you 1/16-inch accuracy up to 196 feet. You can set the device to read these measurements in one of three units—meters, feet, or inches—and the backlit LCD screen makes them easy to read even in limited lighting. The device also takes area, volume, and Pythagoras measurements.

As for features, you can look forward to great memory (up to 30 measurement groups), an IP54 protection rating, and 150-second auto shutoff to save battery power.

This little laser-powered machine has everything you could possibly need for basic day-to-day measurements!

Pros:

1/16-inch accuracy
2 bubble levels
3 measurement reading options
IP54 protection rating
Backlit LCD screen
Can store 30 measurement groups
Can take additional measurements
150-second auto shutoff

Cons:

Measurements are sometimes inconsistent with each other
Not ideal for larger-scale projects

Atolla Laser Distance Meter

The 196Ft Laser Measure from Atolla gets the job done with precision and offers several practical features for your convenience. Two bubble levels, three measurement reading options, multiple measurement capabilities, and backlit LCD screen add up to a laser measure you can rely on for basic day-to-day measuring needs. Boasting an IP54 protection rating, this little guy can be used both indoors and outdoors—a huge plus! In addition, the unit has the memory capacity to store twenty different measurement records, features a mute function for quiet operation, and has 3-minute auto shutoff. Though not quite a perfect device (it comes close), this is a must-have tool for anyone in need of diverse measurements from a hardy device that will last.

Pros:

3 measurement reading options
2 bubble levels
Can take multiple measurements
Good for indoor and outdoor use
Backlit LCD screen
IP54 protection rating
Can save 20 records
Mute function
3-minute auto shutoff

Cons:

Difficult to use
Design flaw makes measurements inconsistent

Leica DISTO D2 New 330ft

Alright, the price on this one is a little steeper than what we've covered so far. But it also provides accurate measurements for a much longer distance and comes with commendable features such as Bluetooth and multiple measurement capabilities. The device can store up to ten measurement records at a time, has a protection rating of IP54, has long-lasting batteries, and—wait for it—connects to a downloadable app! While this measure from Leica possesses many of the same features as the others we've covered, it certainly takes them up a notch!

Pros:

1/16-inch accuracy
Can take multiple measurements
Measures up to 330 feet
Comes with Bluetooth 4.0
Can store 10 records
Long-lasting batteries
IP54 protection rating
Device connects to app

Cons:

Buttons are uncomfortable to use
App lacks certain key features
Included manual not very informative

DEWALT Laser Measure Tool/Distance Meter

This laser measure tool from trusted brand DEWALT features a simplistic design that gets the job done, at the same time incorporating more advanced functionalities such as Bluetooth and app connectivity. In addition to taking multiple measurements (sadly, no Pythagorean though), this device can add and subtract fractions for your convenience. And let us tell you: this device is built to last! Though lacking in some of the bells and whistles its counterparts boast, this device does feature a hardy construction and comes with a 3-year limited warranty for your peace of mind.

Pros:

Can take multiple measurements
Can add and subtract fractions
Comes with Bluetooth
Connects with downloadable app
3-year limited warranty

Cons:

Some units arrived with dead batteries
No Pythagorean Mode
Less accuracy than comparable models

Laser Tape Measure 2-in-1

Pining for the convenience of a laser measure but aren't quite ready to give up using a good ol' tape measure? *Enters the 2-in-1 Laser Tape Measure from TOOLTOO Let me introduce you to your new best friend.

This laser measure/tape measure combo gives you the best of both worlds: the convenience and accuracy (up to 1/16-inch) of a quality laser measure and the hands-on, just-to-be-sure approach of a quality tape measure. The two measures are housed in a durable IP54-rated construction that features a backlit LCD display for easy reading. You can set the device to give you the measurements in feet, inches, or meters, and you can opt to do single or continuous measurements—whichever best suits your needs! Throw in its rechargeable lithium battery and 1-year warranty, and you have a long-lasting product with a lot to offer.

Pros:

1/16-inch accuracy
Inbuilt tape measure
3 measurement reading options
Can do both single and continuous measurements
Rechargeable lithium battery
Backlit LCD display
IP54 protection rating
1-year manufacturer's warranty

Cons:

Not for outdoor use
Included instructions are unclear

Laser Measure 196 Ft/60M Tavool Laser Tape Measure

There are two things you'll notice right away when you first lay eyes on this beauty: 1) It looks almost exactly like an iPod—how cool is that? 2) Its construction is high-quality aluminum alloy (as opposed to plastic). Dig deeper, and you'll find a convenient angle sensor, decent memory size, great 1/16-inch accuracy, and a design that makes it perfect for both indoor and outdoor use. Its backlit LCD screen is the cherry on the cake, and the rechargeable lithium battery the frosting. In short, underneath that cool and unassuming appearance, there are tons of user-oriented features that you'll come to love and appreciate.

Pros:

1/16-inch accuracy
Can take multiple measurements
3 measurement reading options
Angle sensor
Good for indoors and outdoors
Can store 20 measurement groups
Backlit LCD screen
Rechargeable lithium battery
15-second auto shutoff
Aluminum alloy construction

Cons:

Some battery issues
Instructions not very helpful

TECCPO Laser Distance Meter

It's green. And for some reason, it kind of reminds me of a LeapFrog device. But don't let its unassuming appearance fool you—under the hood, this 196Ft Rechargeable Laser Measure from TECCPO possesses some serious measuring skills!

This device features many of the same features and attributes as the others on our list, such as 1/16-inch accuracy and multiple measurement options. In addition to these basic essentials, it also incorporates versatile measurement-taking options that allow you to measure from more than one location—perfect for spur-of-the-moment measurements or awkward measurement locations. If you plan on using this device often, you'll appreciate its large memory capacity of up to 99 sets, as well as its tripod compatibility. To top it all off, it comes with a trusty 2-year quality promise you can feel good about.

Pros:

1/16-inch accuracy
Can take multiple measurements
Versatile measurement-taking options
Angle sensor
Fast-charging lithium battery
Backlit LCD screen
IP54 protection rating
Can hold 99 measurement sets
Mute function
Can be used with tripod
2-year quality promise

Cons:

Not great for outdoor use
Instructions not very helpful
Some buttons are hard to read

MOTORHEAD 196Ft/60M Laser Measure

By now, you already know the drill: multiple measurements and reading options, adding, subtracting, durability, and so on and so forth. Let's get to the meat.

This device from MOTORHEAD is just so user-friendly. Its angle finder & gauge make it a lot easier for users at all experience levels to make accurate measurements, it has a pretty large memory capacity at 50 sets, and—perhaps best of all—it also comes with a "nano measurement point" that helps you get good measurements from traditionally hard-to-reach areas (why aren't more brands doing this?). Add to that its 2-year warranty, and it looks like a quite a deal, doesn't it?

Pros:

Can take multiple measurements
Can find area of many different shapes
Angle sensor
Angle finder + gauge
Can add and subtract fractions
Nano measurement point
Can store 50 measurement sets
Water- and dust-resistant
2-year warranty

Cons:

Directions not very helpful
Some faulty units were sent

Frequently Asked Questions

If you're unfamiliar with the concept of a laser measuring tool, no need to fear. In this section, we'll briefly answer some of the most common questions people ask about laser measuring tools.

What are laser measuring tools?

A laser measuring tool is a device equipped with a laser, an optical sensor, and a computer. The computer takes information from the laser and optical sensor to provide the user with an accurate distance reading.

This type of tool is most often used to measure the distance between two points, especially when those points are relatively far away. Common applications include wall-to-wall measurements and floor-to-ceiling measurements.

You can find some laser measuring tools that also provide volume and/or area readings, though these are more expensive.

How accurate are laser measuring tools?

The average laser measuring tool can provide distance measurements accurate to one-eighth of an inch, though more expensive models can measure to one-sixteenth of an inch. Regardless of the marketed accuracy rating, laser measurement tools tend to be most accurate over shorter distances and less accurate the farther the distance.

How are laser distances measured?

As mentioned, laser measuring tools use a laser-optical sensor combination to give accurate measurements. Here is a quick breakdown of how this actually works:

Lasers are known to have stabler "flight speeds" than other types of light.
For this reason, distance can be measured according to the laser's flight speed from point A to point B (how long it takes to hit point B from point A and then bounce back).
The device's computer determines the distance based on this flight speed (the longer it takes, the farther away point B is).

Conclusion

We hope this little guide gave you the valuable information you need to make the best purchase for you and your intended uses. The world of laser measuring tools can be intimidating, but equipped with the right knowledge—and a little trial and error—it's totally possible to find a great product that works for you. Until next time, wishing you luck in all your endeavors!