The 10 Best Digital Levels

Editor's Notes

December 15, 2020:

We replaced the Digi-Pas DWL80E with the Klein Tools 935DAG, a superior handheld model backed by Klein’s dedication to high-quality performance. This new addition also has an auto-rotating screen, making it easy to read even when inverted.

We also removed the Digi-Pas Waterproof due to its quality control issues, and added the 2PM Tools Torpedo, a 24-inch model that is designed with an easy to read green backlit LCD readout. It’s also much cheaper than similar models of this length, making it a great choice for a tradesman that needs a high-quality tool that won't break the bank.

If you’re looking for a tool with a bit more versatility than the options here, this collection of builders levels should provide you with a good variety to choose from. You’ll find typical bubble-style models here, as well as laser-sight tools, and even high-end rotary levels.

If you’re solely interested in the convenience of laser models, these line lasers might be what you’re looking for. Most of these include handy magnets to secure them in place while you work.

December 19, 2019:

Removed the General Tools ToolSmart because it is merely an angle finder with traditional bubble vials. Added the Empire 105.48. It's accurate to plus or minus 500th of a degree at 0 and 90 degrees. At 48 inches, it will come in handy to contractors who need to level out across long surfaces such as frames and floors - a shorter model won't detect slopes caused by warped or uneven stock. As with many Empire levels, the I-frame design is quite robust but lightweight enough to be used overhead comfortably for long periods of time.

September 12, 2019:

Ultimately, the main advantage that a digital level has over the classic bubble level is to make readouts easier and faster to understand, eliminating much of the guesswork. This is especially valuable for those who have impaired vision, but also for anyone who uses a level day-to-day and wants to speed up their workflow. In fact, many of the digital levels on the market have retained the spirit vials of old, in case you want a backup way to check the alignment of a surface.

Since most digital levels operate at about the same margin of error, our ranking was influenced not so much by claims of accuracy but more so by a model's durability and features that improve the user interface -- such as a backlit display and audible indicator.

Having an audible indicator, which alerts you when you've achieved a target angle, can be crucial when working in situations that require you to face away from your level.

Our top pick, the Calculated Industries AccuMASTER PRO, has all the aforementioned features, plus a display that flips automatically when the tool is inverted, giving you a lot of flexibility with how you use it.

Also worth spotlighting is the General Tools ToolSmart, which takes the leap from digital level to smart level, and can save data to your phone or tablet via a Bluetooth connection.