We tested 16 laser rangefinders.The Bosch PLR 50 C receives our top recommendation because it offers the best operation and a suitable app.However, professionals on the construction site should prefer the Leica Disto D2 or the Bosch GLM 50-22, which are designed for this thanks to their IP protection class.Luxury comes with the Bosch Professional GLM 100-25 C, which even uses a camera to aim.
We have reviewed the test and updated the availability of individual products.Our recommendations remain current. Laser Level Measure Tool
We tested four other laser rangefinders.We were particularly impressed by the Bosch Professional GLM 100-25 C, which uses not only a laser but also a camera to target the measuring point.
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Regardless of whether you are renovating, moving, remodeling the bathroom or buying new furniture - measuring equipment is always needed.When folded out, the folding rule also offers the option of visualizing dimensions - but the laser range finder is the better choice for quickly measuring or processing the dimensions.
Click here for our cross line laser test.
No measuring device makes it easier to measure longer distances and offers the possibility of processing the measurements to calculate area or volume.
We tested 16 laser rangefinders.We can particularly recommend five of them.
A one-button rangefinder?Is this supposed to work?It works!And with a colored touch display it's extremely good.No other rangefinder is as easy to use as the Bosch PLR 50 C - and only a few offer such a range of functions.
The connection to the app, which evaluates the measured values and sends the drawing to the printer in the home network, is particularly practical.
In terms of quality, the Leica Disto D2 is clearly at the top, but it is quite expensive.No other manufacturer in the test includes a test report with their rangefinder and thus confirms the accuracy of just ± 1.5 millimeters.On top of that, the Disto D2 promises protection class IP54 and offers an enormous range of functions.Even the app for processing the data is not missing.
Of course, this has its price and private users have to weigh up whether it is worth digging so deep into their pockets.Because the D2 has to give up the point for the best ease of use to our test winner despite being twice the price.
The Bosch GLM 50-22 also clearly belongs to the professional range, as evidenced by its superior features and, above all, its robust construction.The protection class IP65 also confirms that the GLM 50-22 feels most comfortable on the construction site.There his powerful laser can show what he can do.
Only the display isn't quite convinced by this.Although it looks very clear in color, the dark background makes it difficult to read in sunlight.
Are you looking for something cheap?The first impression is convincing here - and the Hanmatek LM50 appears to be well made, has built-in spirit levels and is really well equipped.It later turns out that the spirit levels are crooked and therefore unusable and the laser does not shine nearly as brightly as in more expensive models.
Nevertheless, the Hanmatek offers a really great overall package considering the price.The display is clear and easy to read even in direct sunlight and the operation is extremely easy despite the many functions.Only the laser is really a bit weak on the chest.
Can the features of a rangefinder be bettered based on area, volume and angle calculations?Yes that works.This is when you no longer have to look for the laser point on the wall, but rather simply aim at your measuring point on the display and through the camera.
The measurement data is then transferred to the app and the floor plan of the room is printed out.But you have to be able to afford a luxury like the Bosch Professional GLM 100-25 C.
All information on the topic
The name already says what rangefinders do.The distance is measured with a laser.However, that's not entirely true, because the time that the laser needs to travel there and back is actually stopped and the distance is then determined from this.
This means that the small parts can achieve a lot, because as we all know, light moves at the speed of light.Therefore, you can imagine how precisely laser measuring devices have to work in order to deliver exact measurement results.
Yes, they still exist – the ultrasonic rangefinders.They work like bats and emit ultrasonic waves instead of a laser beam.Here too, the time that the sound needs to travel there and back is stopped and the distance is then calculated from this.
Ultrasonic range finders are less accurate than laser devices
However, ultrasonic rangefinders have one major disadvantage.Unlike the precise laser beam, the ultrasound spreads like a cone.The greater the distance, the larger the diameter of the cone, which leads to deviations in measurement accuracy.
When buying a rangefinder, the first thing you should consider is the range.If you just want to measure your living room, you can use almost any device.In the test, the Bosch Zamo was the rangefinder with the shortest range and it also reached 20 meters.
However, this could be a bit tight when working outdoors.Because a short range often means a weaker laser.When the sun is shining, it becomes difficult to find the light point.
The second important point would be the accuracy specification.Like every measuring device, the distance meter is subject to a certain tolerance specified by the manufacturer.However, the best in the rangefinder test were ± 1.5 millimeters and the “worst” were ± 3.0 millimeters.Everyone has to decide for themselves whether this is really relevant in the private sector.
The protection class can also be found under the characteristics.This means that this is only actually stated for the better and usually more expensive devices.It tells you what dust and water the rangefinder can tolerate.
The IP protection classes consist of two numbers.The first indicates the class for protection against dust and the second against water.The higher the number, the better.
The protection classes IP indicate protection against dust and water.The higher the numbers, the better.
But the same applies to the protection class: Do I really need it?There is always work to be done on the construction site, regardless of whether it is raining, snowing or the sun is shining.Nothing works here without a rangefinder with the appropriate IP class.In the private area you have the choice and can adapt to the weather.
Switch on the device, press the buttons and read the value - that's what a rangefinder has to make possible.But very few people are satisfied with that, and most devices can do a lot more.
Any range finder can measure the distance at the push of a button.In addition, continuous measurement can be activated for everyone in the test.This determines the distance with short interruptions and reports changes immediately.
During continuous measurement, the measured values are only displayed and cannot be saved.However, the longest and shortest distances can be saved using the minimum/maximum function.
If you want to calculate several sections, for example because there are obstacles in between, you can do this using the plus/minus function, which can also be used to deduct sections.
Calculating the rectangular area or the volume of a cuboid from two or three measured values are the simplest functions and every rangefinder with laser should have these.In the test 06/2022 there is only one who can neither calculate area nor volume, and two others who are content with calculating area.
Indirect measurements can be carried out using the Pythagoras measurement.To do this, a rectangular triangle is formed and the distance to the wall is aimed horizontally and the top point of the wall diagonally.
The rangefinder then calculates the distance between the two measuring points.The top or bottom point must therefore always be aimed horizontally and provide a clear view.
With the double Pythagoras measurement, the top, a horizontal and the bottom point of the wall are targeted and the height of the wall is calculated from two triangles.This means that only one point in between needs to be aimed horizontally.The top and bottom of the wall may be behind an obstacle.
Two of the rangefinders tested have one or two built-in spirit levels.These are great for simply painting over with a black marker.Unfortunately, they can't be used for anything more.
Things look different with an integrated, digital version.This can be “zeroed” by reversing it and is then perfect.But it's even better if a protractor is integrated.It shows slopes even better than a graphically displayed air bubble.
With the stakeout function, the value to be measured is entered in advance. When this value (or a multiple thereof) is reached by moving the rangefinder, a signal sounds and the distance to the next point is permanently displayed.This makes sense, for example, if several pillars are to be marked at equal distances.
Rangefinders come with few or no accessories.Basically, they hardly need anything.But what is very practical and should always be included is a belt bag for the rangefinder.There is no more sensible means of transport on the construction site.
So that you don't accidentally drop the rangefinder, many of them come with a hand strap in addition to the belt bag.
A fold-out stop is less of an accessory and more of a feature.This makes it possible to place the rangefinder precisely on outside corners.
The devices measure distance - and many are even able to calculate angles, areas and volumes.An app is therefore not actually necessary for this task.
If there is a special app for the rangefinder, it has a different background.The app processes the measured values and transfers them to a scaled drawing.This allows for easier visualization and, depending on the app's capabilities, the drawings can be archived, further edited or printed out.
Rangefinders are made to work!That's not entirely the case with the Bosch PLR 50 C, because it's a little fun to tap through the functions and play with them.The PLR 50 C is somehow more than just a rangefinder with a laser.
At first glance, the Bosch PLR 50 C doesn't look like a rangefinder at all and you're not entirely sure what you're actually holding in your hand if it weren't for the two openings on the head for the laser and receiver.
The included belt bag and the fold-out stop also speak for the device.This makes it easy to measure external edges, which we of course tried out.
After switching on and starting the software, which takes about two seconds, the very clear screen appears.It is now clear why the Bosch rangefinder only needs one button - it is a touch display.
The menu is very clearly structured.At the top left there is a field with which you can select the type of measurement, at the top right the reference edge is set and at the bottom there is the Bluetooth button, a small submenu for calibration and data storage and a delete button.
When you select the measurement type, a two-page submenu opens, which offers a total of twelve different measurement types.Nobody is missing there.In addition to the double Pythagoras function, it is even possible to add and subtract areas and volumes.But the most interesting thing is probably the inclination measurement, which can itself be calibrated beforehand by reversing it.
If you don't understand what a symbol means or how the measurements are carried out, just click on the question mark at the bottom right and images will show the relevant instructions.In the end, it wasn't even necessary to seek help or the operating instructions.Everything is easy to understand and intuitive to use.
In the practical test, the Bosch PLR 50 C performed very well, but not perfectly.Since the Bosch was the first to go through the practical test, the laser point it created was used as a comparison for all other distance meters.Therefore, two laser points can usually be seen in the images.The one on the right comes from the Bosch PLR 50 C and the one on the left (always marked with an arrow) comes from the respective test candidate.
This is also how the power of the Bosch laser can be assessed.Some candidates, such as Bosch Professional, Leica Geosystems or DeWalt, were slightly stronger.All others are weaker or similarly strong.This puts the PLR 50 C in the upper midfield and the laser strength is sufficient to detect the point quite well at a distance of nine meters, even in sunshine.
We were able to test the range up to a distance of 42 meters.The Bosch made no weaknesses when measuring and the repeat measurement accuracy was almost perfect.
The readability of the display suffers in direct sunlight
Therefore, we have little doubt that it measures accurately up to the maximum specified range of 50 meters.
Unfortunately, the display doesn't come off quite as well.The dark background in the building is very pleasant and certainly protects the batteries.However, in direct sunlight you have problems seeing everything clearly.But it is still possible.The Einhell TC-LD 25 and the Bosch Zamo failed completely here.
Thanks to Bluetooth, the Bosch PLR 50 C can be connected to your smartphone and the MeasureOn app, which has its advantages.
All dimensions are quickly adopted and can be subsequently edited, saved and even printed out.Even the room height can be integrated and, for example, the need for wallpaper can be precisely calculated.
Willy Matthews from Laser Rangefinder Test particularly praises the extensive functions:
»We like the Bosch PLR 50 C because of its easy operation via the touchscreen and the options offered by the PLR measure&go app.You won't find this much pioneering technology in any other rangefinder in this price segment on the market.«
If you look at the display of the Leica Disto D2, you could almost compare it with cheap rangefinders.But there is much more to the D2 than meets the eye.
The Leica Disto D2 is extremely slim compared to other extensively equipped devices and, at 104 grams, is also incredibly light.Nevertheless, it looks extremely high-quality and sits comfortably in the hand with its rubberized surfaces.
Like some other higher-quality devices, it also has a fold-out stop.But the Leica is very stable and significantly longer.This means it can be positioned more precisely and can still be used even with small heels.
But what is certainly more interesting is that the Disto D2 comes with a calibration certificate.This luxury can really only be found at Leica Geosystems among the test candidates.The relatively low tolerance of ± 1.5 millimeters characterizes the D2 for professional use.The price is also appropriate.However, it matches the characteristics and functions.
The operation is very similar to the cheaper devices.You can use the function key to select the type of measurement, which is shown above with a small graphic.In addition to area and volume calculations, there is also the double Pythagoras function and also a staking function.
What is unique, however, is a timer like those found on digital cameras.This can be set for up to 60 seconds and only then triggers the measurement.However, we cannot think of a suitable situation in which this function is needed.
This is different with the staking function, which not so many offer.Here the measurement is first set, then the rangefinder is moved and when the correct distance is reached, an acoustic and visual message is given.
In the practical test, the Leica Disto D2 shows what it can do.The laser dot is strong and clearly visible.Even at a distance of nine meters and in sunshine, you have no problem finding it on a light surface.
No one in the 06/22 test mastered the repeat measurement accuracy test, in which the distance meter is placed at a fixed angle three times and a measurement is started, as well as the Leica Disto D2.All three measurements show exactly the same value.It doesn't get any better.
The DISTO Plan app is quite similar to the one from Bosch, but offers a few more functions.However, not all of them are free.You don't have to pay for the three-dimensional representation of the measured space, which is a great visualization.
The Leica Disto D2 works very precisely, offers an enormous range of functions and yet remains easy to use.However, this higher standard has its price and is more likely to find its fans in the professional sector.
Like our test winner from Bosch, the Bosch GLM 50-22 also offers a color display.However, the operation is not quite as convenient.But the robust blue one has other advantages.
As soon as you unpack it, it becomes obvious what the Bosch GLM 50-22 is made for.Visible screws, clearly protruding buttons and a thick rubber coating stand for tough use on the construction site.This is even guaranteed with the protection class IP65.
It's almost astonishing that a colored display appears when you start it.You would usually do without such advantages on the construction site, but if they are available, you are of course happy because it simplifies the presentation.
If several measurements are necessary for functions, the distance currently being measured lights up blue.This is important, for example, in the Pythagoras measurement, where it is crucial which distance is measured first.
Unfortunately, the Bosch GLM 50-22 only has the simple Pythagoras function, which calculates the third length from two measurements.When measuring a wall, the rangefinder must lie flat on the floor when taking a measurement.If there are obstacles, the measurement will not work.
Otherwise, the Bosch is well equipped and in addition to the typical area or volume calculation, there is also the option to save minimum and maximum values or add and subtract measurements.
In practice, the Bosch GLM 50-22 can show what it is capable of.First and foremost, this is a pretty powerful laser that can still be seen clearly even in sunlight.
This only applies to a limited extent for the display.Fortunately, the brightness can be adjusted in three levels and the measured values are still visible.A slight shadow is enough and the colors can be recognized again.
Bosch does not allow for measurement errors and the repeat measurements fit within a millimeter.What is practical is that the GLM 50-22 has a threaded mount for tripods.In this case, the measuring edge is placed at the center of the thread and the rangefinder can be swiveled in a circle with precise precision.
You have to do without angle measurements or the double Pythagoras function, but otherwise the Bosch GLM 50-22 is quite well equipped.However, its advantages clearly lie in its robust use on the construction site.It is well rubberized and, with protection class IP65, even promises protection against jets of water from all directions.
In the rangefinder test, expensive and inexpensive devices had to compete against each other.It became clear that no one really fails and fulfills their tasks.Cheap devices also have their place and the Hanmatek LM50 stood out with a minimal advantage.
In terms of price, the inexpensive rangefinders only differ minimally and their functions are almost identical.And if you look closely, the DTape DT 50 even comes from the same company as the Mileseey S6-100.
The fact that the Hanmatek LM50 has become our price tip is due to very small and subtle differences.The first impression can be decisive here and the Hanmatek simply seems a little more high-quality.
The second point concerns the scope of delivery and unfortunately Mileseey does not include the really practical belt bag.That costs bonus points and makes the Hanmatek look a little better.DTape has to deliver the dot due to a marginally weaker laser.
Otherwise, the Hanmatek doesn't stand out clearly from its cheaper competitors.Not even because it has two built-in spirit levels.They can safely be ignored because they are obviously just for decoration and don't work.
However, all measuring options work very well and there are plenty of them.Everything is included, from area and volume calculations to addition/subtraction and min/max functions.Even the double Pythagoras measurement is not missing.
The practical test was good, but also mixed.This includes, among other things, the spirit levels not working.Both simply show nonsensical measurement results when reversed.
The laser wasn't quite as convincing either.In the shade and at a distance of five meters it was still quite easy to see.In the sun, at a distance of nine meters, it was quite difficult to find the small dot on the light wood.However, the repeated measurements at this distance were almost identical.
However, there must be a small deduction for the manufacturer's information.They promise a range of 50 meters, which could not be confirmed.Although the red dot was still clearly visible at night even at over 60 meters, the Hanmatek LM50 only gave errors from 43 meters onwards.But we don't want to be too petty when it comes to price tips.
The Hanmatek LM50 does not stand out clearly among the inexpensive rangefinders, but it does stand out in small ways.It offers a very good range of functions and a great display.Only the laser is a bit weak.
There is always a model that can do more than others and, in addition to the sophisticated range of functions, also packs the icing on the cake.In our case this is the Bosch Professional GLM 100-25 C, which not only provides a laser point but also a camera image of the targeted measuring point.
The first impression can be crucial and when the Bosch Professional GLM 100-25 C rangefinder comes with a hand strap and a belt bag with a magnetic closure, it has already gained its first plus point.
The second comes when you switch it on - a high-contrast color display that shows a lot, but which you quickly get used to and understand quickly.You may not need the date and time, but it makes it easier to find one of the 50 possible stored values later.
There are also indicators at the top for reference edge, Bluetooth connection and battery status.By the way, after all the tests, it still shows three bars despite the display.
At the very bottom of the display, the current assignment of the two function keys is shown on the left and right.In start mode you can use them to call up the saved values or the rangefinder settings.The current measurement variant is displayed in the middle.
There are more than enough settings on the Bosch Professional GLM 100-25 C and it will be difficult to go into every single point.For example, there is the option of selecting a total of four different reference edges.The three typical ones would be the front edge, the back edge and the tripod mount.
But with the GLM 100-25 C there is another one.The fold-out stop for the rear reference edge can also be folded out 180° and then offers a 2.5 centimeter long measuring tip that can also be used as a stop in grooves or narrow cracks.
When it comes to measuring functions, there is nothing that the Bosch Professional GLM 100-25 C cannot do.Whether area/volume calculation, Pythagoras function, staking or the calibratable spirit level, it's all there and no rangefinder offers more.
And then there is a very special option – the camera.It shows on the display what the laser is currently targeting and also marks the laser point.If that's not quite right, you can readjust it yourself.
In the practical test, the Bosch Professional GLM 100-25 C performed fairly well, but not quite perfectly.The laser could be a little more powerful and also more precise.It clearly has to admit defeat to the Makita LD080P.But if you can no longer see the laser dot, the camera image is still there.
The display looks surprisingly good in comparison.Displays with a dark background in particular often fail outdoors and the values are hardly visible.With the GLM 100-25 C this works perfectly under the parasol and still works quite well even in direct sunlight.
The associated “MeasureOn” app from Bosch is extremely practical.This connects to the device and the measured values can be used to create rooms.This works including windows, doors and the room height.The drawing can then be shared, printed or stored in a project.
The Bosch Professional GLM 100-25 C is perfectly equipped and with the camera function it packs something special on top.The laser could be a little more powerful and the color display no longer shines as brightly in direct sunlight, but it is still easy to read.Bosch could have gotten an extra point with a calibration certificate, but unfortunately this is not available.
There is absolutely nothing wrong with the Makita LD080P rangefinder and it is at the same test-winning level as our Bosch Home and Garden PLR 50 C. Its display is even much easier to see in sunshine.The laser dot is also first-class and can be easily seen even in bright daylight.
Apart from a (digital) spirit level or angle measurement, there is nothing that could be missing in terms of functionality.Or maybe the app and Bluetooth connection that can be used to convert dimensions into images?Our current test winner can do that and it only costs around half as much.
Of course, Makita has different standards and relies on different users than Bosch green.And the Makita LD080P is 100% worth every penny.As a private user, you simply have more and invest less compared to our current test winner.
The Trotec BD22 is in the good midfield in terms of price.It's not one of the cheap ones, but it can't keep up with the slightly more expensive devices either.If you keep an eye on that, there isn't that much to complain about.
It's a shame, of course, that there's no bag for it.You don't take a rangefinder out of the drawer, measure with it and put it away again.Most of the time you're planning or working and he stays on his toes.Therefore, the belt bag should be part of the basic equipment.
The small plastic wheel at the bottom, which can be used to trace distances and therefore measure, goes well beyond the basic equipment.But it would have been nicer if it were made of rubber or had a rubber coating.Without a coating, it quickly slips over smooth surfaces, which distorts the measurement result.
There is basically nothing to complain about in terms of equipment.Sure, the built-in spirit level isn't usable, but otherwise everything from area volume calculation to Pythagoras is there.However, it is incomprehensible why this is shown on a black display that is barely visible in sunshine.This significantly limits the outdoor options.
Why are “spirit levels” built into a range finder?The only sensible idea might be that this would allow the rangefinder to be kept fairly straight when measuring.But the horizontal spirit level above shows that this was obviously not the manufacturer's idea.
The next question mark is the dark display.It's easy on the eyes, but how long do you look at the measurements for?Otherwise, it unfortunately has a major disadvantage: the measured values are difficult to see in bright surroundings.Unfortunately, with the Ogeto LDM 50 it is so bad that even under the parasol the measured values can only be guessed at.
However, it also makes little sense to use the rangefinder in bright daylight.In comparison, the laser is a bit weak on the chest and can only be seen at a distance of 9 meters even with shadows.
Otherwise there is nothing to criticize about the basic equipment.Min/Max, add/subtract, volume calculation, Pythagorean function... everything you could need is there.But you should stay indoors to take measurements.
Unfortunately, there was some disappointment with the Bosch Zamo.Admittedly, it is small and handy, which certainly has its advantages, but other than that you can't expect much.
The main area of application of the Zamos is definitely the interior.With a range of just 20 meters and a not-so-bright laser, it will be difficult to measure long distances in daylight.
But the daylight also makes it difficult for the display.In direct sunlight you can't really see anything on it.
Functionally, the Bosch Zamo has little to offer and the display and range relegate it to the interior.Only the attachments (tape, wheel and line adapters) could make it more interesting for some people.
If you rely on Makita tools, you can also use the Makita LD30P.With a stated measuring accuracy of ± 2.0 millimeters and protection class IP54, it is also intended for professional use.
Otherwise, despite the decent price, you shouldn't expect too much.The laser is slightly weaker than the Bosch from the DIY series, the maximum range is only 33 meters and the only functions available are area calculation.Not even the reference edge can be moved from back to front.
With high measuring accuracy and protection class IP54, the Makita LD30P belongs in the professional sector.Otherwise, unfortunately, it doesn't have much to offer.
The Einhell TC-LD 25 is a simple rangefinder that has at least the basic functions of continuous and individual measurement as well as area and volume calculation.Then the comfort is over again.
Unfortunately, there are generally no points that make the Einhell stand out in a particularly positive way.The display is too dark and can no longer be read in sunlight, the laser dot is quite weak and can no longer be seen at nine meters in sunshine.But that doesn't matter, because the technology is overwhelmed by the bright environment and responds with an error message.
The Einhell TC-LD 25 is not really convincing in comparison.The range of functions covers the basic requirements, but the display and laser are overwhelmed in bright sunshine.
Sometimes it's just a matter of quickly measuring simple dimensions and implementing them in a drawing.That's exactly what the Leica Disto D1 is made for.It is proven to work precisely with a calibration certificate and offers protection class IP54.Thanks to Bluetooth, the dimensions are sent to the app and output as a drawing.
If you want to use your rangefinder for other purposes, you shouldn't use the D1.Because with its very targeted and otherwise limited range of functions, it is only made for that purpose and is also too expensive.
360 Degree Laser Level The Leica Disto D1 works professionally, precisely but also very specifically.Only those who are looking for an easy-to-use device that can primarily be used to take simple measurements and send them to the app can invest in this device, which is not exactly cheap.