Electronic levels: pros and cons, varieties, brands, choices

When carrying out construction and repair work, you cannot do without a level. This is a versatile tool that can be used to solve any problem related to drawing a flat plane or line (both horizontal and vertical). Regular bubble levels or more modern electronic levels are used depending on accuracy requirements and individual preference.

The digital level is very similar to the bubble level - the methods of application are practically the same. It often has several vials along with a digital display. This element is used to display data on the deviation (in degrees or percent).

The scope of this type of building levels includes checking vertical, horizontal and inclined planes, as well as marking at different angles. Note that the bubble level allows you to establish with good accuracy the fact of deviation from the horizontal or vertical axis, but it cannot be used to find out what is the angle of inclination. An electronic device shows a specific angle value, and this is one of its advantages (accuracy depends on the model).

This property of these levels can be very useful when performing work related to marking lines at any given angle, for example, laying paving slabs or certain types of roofing. The installation of rafters, beams, complex types of supporting structures (such as arches) also requires accurate determination of angles.

Other obvious pluses of e-type levels include usability, accuracy, and advanced functionality. Working with the digital display is much more convenient than using the bubble level.

There are electronic levels with a protractor function and a laser. Thus, an impressive set of useful functions is another significant plus of such tools. However, they also have their drawbacks.

A level is a tool that is prone to damage. A slight deformation of the rail is enough for the readings to be violated. And in the process of work, the rail, usually made of aluminum, often receives accidental blows. For the usual level, this is not particularly important - its cost is low, since the service life of the device is short. But digital counterparts are more expensive because they use microcircuits.

This category of instruments is often equipped with a protractor function (it has an additional rail, movably fastened to the main bolt), which allows you to measure the angles between two planes. There are also many models of electronic levels with a laser. They have a laser point that is projected in any direction (360 degrees) relative to the device, that is, they operate on the principle of a laser level.

Those electronic levels that have the function of calculating angles differ in the measuring range (in degrees). There are models that allow you to define angles up to 180 degrees. But if you need to work with flattened angles, then you need a tool with a measuring range of up to 360 degrees. Limitations are always indicated in the specifications for each model.

Laser levels are also very popular with builders and homeowners. With their help, it is very convenient to make markup. In addition to the display, such a device has an LED that emits a controlled laser beam. There are all sorts of modifications that differ in range, accuracy (deviation), light intensity.

Finally, a very important parameter of the level in practice is its length (base). The longer the tool staff, the more accurate the reading will be, and vice versa. Usually, devices with a base from 60 to 80 cm are used, there are also longer ones. At the same time, there are pocket-type devices on sale with a short rail of 20-30 cm. They are not very accurate, but they are convenient and compact.

Magnitude can be distinguished from additional criteria. Magnetic levels are a useful variation, and many models have multiple magnets along the work plane. If the surface to which you press the level during operation is metal, the device will become magnetically attached to it. This will prevent it from accidentally falling, and will also make it possible to attach the tool both from above and below, at any angle and not to support it.

When buying a level with indication on an electronic display, it is recommended to focus only on well-established manufacturers and their authorized dealers. All their products undergo special tests for compliance with technical standards (for example, in our country, GOST 9416-83 is valid for building levels).

Several well-known brands on the market are listed below:

• Kapro;

• Stanley;

• Stabila;

• "Bison".

Kapro levels manufactured in Israel. They are distinguished by modern technologies and quality. The company is also engaged in the production of laser, measuring and marking tools, so the technical level of its products is really serious. Kapro tools also have a convenient, functional design and are produced for both domestic needs and professional use.

Stanley has an advantage due to the fact that it was known in the American market at the beginning of the last century. Now she is one of the world leaders in the production of measuring instruments.

A distinctive feature of Stanley products is quality, the level of which is carefully controlled by production tests. The company also pays great attention to the implementation of innovations. Buyers in their reviews note the accuracy and ergonomics of the Stanley levels, the optimal weight and a convenient display from which it is easy to read the readings.

Milwaukee Is another major American manufacturer. Previously, the company specialized in power tools, but now its range includes more than 500 different types of products, including construction levels. Among them there are bubble levels and laser levels, with a mount that allows you to mark in any plane.

German firm Stabila produces levels of exceptional quality. They are more expensive than many other manufacturers' products, but their unique strengths are recognized by most experienced builders. The Stabila tool has a long service life - the powder-coated body, impact-resistant ampoules and the display make them reliable and unpretentious. Stabila levels are highly accurate and professional grade.

Measuring instruments from the firm "Zubr" are well known in the domestic market. There are digital magnetic models and protractors from this brand.

When choosing a device we advise you to pay attention to the following criteria:

• ergonomics - the tool should be comfortable to use;

• accuracy - it must correspond to the declared one and in any case should not exceed 0.2 degrees;

• additional functions - do not neglect convenient functions such as a magnet, protractor or laser if you purchase a device for permanent use;

• reliability of the tool and the reputation of the manufacturer.

It is quite easy to check these parameters. The device must be lightweight so that it can be held in weight for a long time while performing a plane check. To check the accuracy and calibration, you can use the following simple technique: place the level on a plane, then turn it 180 degrees and apply it again. If the readings differ, the instrument needs to be calibrated.

For an overview of the electronic level, protractor, inclinometer ADA Pro-Digit MICRO, see the following video.