Which laser to choose: cross or rotating?
Choosing the right construction or rotary laser can be quite a challenge, especially when the range of products on offer is as wide as it is at Nivel System.
With everyone looking for reliable equipment for precise measurements in mind, we have prepared a practical guide: ‘Construction cross and rotary lasers – which one to choose and what to look for?’. In it, you will learn which device is best suited to specific working conditions, how the different models differ, and what features are worth considering when making a purchase.
Construction lasers are now essential measuring tools on every construction site. They enable quick and precise determination of levels, verticals and slopes, replacing traditional methods such as string, spirit level or plumb bob. Thanks to their intuitive operation and high precision, they are becoming increasingly popular among professionals and ambitious DIY enthusiasts.
A properly selected crossline or rotary laser not only speeds up work, but also increases its accuracy, minimises corrections and reduces material consumption. In this guide, we present the key aspects to consider when choosing a construction laser.
Types of construction lasers – cross or rotary?
Crossline laser – ideal for interiors and finishing work
Crossline lasers emit beams of light that form horizontal and vertical cross lines. They are ideal for indoor work such as:
- tile laying,
installation of suspended ceilings,
installation of furniture and woodwork,
construction and general building work over short distances.
Range: up to 140 m (with receiver)
Best choice: 360° crossline laser – generates full planes around the device, allowing you to work from any side without having to reposition the equipment.
Crossline laser for indoor and outdoor work
If you plan to use the laser outdoors as well, choose a model with:
- electronic compensator – vibration resistant, stable line,
- pulse function – enables operation with a laser receiver,
- full 360° planes – maximum convenience and efficiency.
To increase functionality, it is worth purchasing a laser staff, which will improve levelling in the field.
Rotary laser – for long distances and outdoor work
Rotary lasers are devices designed for outdoor work and large areas. Their head rotates, generating a horizontal or vertical plane within a range of 360°.
Application:
- ground levelling,
- earthworks and installation works,
- paving,
- road works.
Range: up to 500–700 m.
More advanced versions offer a slope function, which allows you to set the inclination of one or two axes – e.g. when laying sewage systems or road surfaces.
Laser planes – how many do you need?
Angle-limited crossline lasers (90–120°)
These are the simplest and cheapest solutions, generating lines only in front of the device. They require frequent repositioning, which is why they are mainly suitable for simple assembly work.
360° multi-plane cross lasers
Configurations available in Nivel System lasers:
1 plane – CL1 (horizontal)
2 planes – CL2 (horizontal + vertical)
3 planes – CL3, CLx3 (1 horizontal + 2 vertical)
4 planes – CL4 (2 horizontal + 2 vertical)
4 planes with slopes – CL5 (full functionality)
The lower laser head allows you to set the level from ‘zero’ – particularly useful when laying tiles from the first row.
Rotating lasers
1 horizontal plane – NL300/320
2 planes (horizontal or vertical) – NL600/700
Compensator – magnetic or electronic?
There are two types of laser sensors:
- manual sensor
manual indications – 3 positions: raise the sensor, lower the sensor, zero indication (level). The sensor assists in finding the laser beam at long distances, When combined with a laser levelling stave, it enables the performance of classic levelling. - digital sensor
digital indications – the differences in heights are shown as numbers on the display, the readings are in millimetres. When combined with a laser levelling stave, it enables the performance of classic levelling.
- manual sensor
Laser beam colour – visibility and working comfort
The colour of a laser beam is of great significance. It influences – among others – the visibility of the laser beam. The following chart perfectly shows the differences.
- red beam – performs well for works in dark rooms, with poor light, over smaller distances. The lasers offering this beam colour are an economic option as they are the cheapest ones.
- green beam – the visibility of this beam is 4 times better than that of the red one. It is perfect for works in bright and sunlit rooms, over long distances. In such conditions, the visibility of the red beam is low or none.
- blue beam – in terms of visibility, it is similar to the green one. However, its advantage is such that its light is more clear, which means that laser lines are not overexposed. It is significant in small rooms or when working with light-reflecting materials, such as polished tiles. Reflection of the blue beam does not strain your eyes, and the long hours of works with the laser become more comfortable. Blue beam is also slightly narrower than red or green beams. It is a perfect choice for those who require the utmost accuracy. At present, it is the best option guaranteeing the works in both well-lit and sun-lit rooms and works over longer distances.
The selection of the beam colour is important only for works inside the buildings. For the works outside, neither of the laser beams is visible and therefore it is necessary to use the laser sensor. It results from the safety requirements. For the laser light has to be weaker than the natural light. Otherwise, it may damage the eyesight. The cooperation of the sensor with a laser crossliner requires that the latter has the PULSE mode.
Laser receivers – for outdoor use and long distances
There are two types of laser receivers available on the market:
Manual
3 positions: raise receiver, lower receiver, zero indication (level). The receiver allows you to find the laser beam over long distances outdoors. When used with a laser target, it allows you to perform classic levelling.
Digital
Height differences are shown numerically on the display, with readings in millimetres. When used with a laser patch, it allows for classic levelling.
Power supply
The power supply of a crossline laser is another important factor to consider when choosing measuring equipment. There are two types of power supply:
– battery-powered – often found in cheaper models; inexpensive to purchase, but expensive to operate and not environmentally friendly
– Li-ion batteries – the most efficient, no memory effect, can be charged during operation.
Nivel System offers independent charging and the possibility of replacing the battery without exposing the laser.
Price
Our decision is often influenced by the price. However, in the case of measuring instruments, the most important criterion should be the measurement accuracy. It often happens that cheap equipment is characterised with low quality, low-level accuracy of measurements. When the decision is based only on offered low prices, we need to consider the risk of interruptions in works, costly corrections, damage to materials, or simply a poor opinion or loss of reliability in the market.
Therefore, we advise that you make reasonable decisions, especially in the scope of measuring instruments. When you make a decision about the purchase:
- Do not be influenced by a low price – select a proven and safe brand and gain competitive advantage
- Select a reliable and proven equipment – read opinions, verify the supplier
- Remember about maintenance service – as the equipment may be damaged. Regardless of the type, brand, price or design of a laser, it is necessary to check, calibrate and service it regularly. Select a supplier with national, local service centre. Do not invest in equipment from uncertain sources, even if the price is low. Such suppliers probably do not offer maintenance services. It may also turn out that calibration or even a simple repair is not possible due to the laser design. In addition, there is no certainty that the offered parameters are kept as such products do not have the required certificates.
Why is 3D calibration so important and why is it worth paying for such a service?
Incorrect readings and indications of measuring instruments expose their users to costly corrections and the loss of investors’ trust. Therefore, when the equipment is used, it should be regularly inspected, checked for correct measurements, regularly calibrated, and in the event of any problems – serviced. Full calibration is required especially for multi-plane lasers. It consists not only in setting the horizontal and vertical lines but – first of all – in positioning the planes in relation to each other, It is a complex process which requires specialist equipment, such as Octopus Prime 3D collimator, know-how and experience. It is also recommended to verify whether the equipment supplier offers maintenance services including full 3D - 360° laser calibration.
Accessories
We often do not pay any attention to standard accessories provided with the equipment but it is one of the most important arguments when deciding on a laser crossliner. It happens very often that the laser alone, without basic accessories, is just useless. Additional accessories effectively expand the range of functions offered by the equipment. Therefore, it is worth taking care that the standard accessories of a laser crossliner include the following:
- A safe carrying case to ensure safety and facilitate mobility
- A laser is mounted at different heights and therefore it is recommended to have a multi-adapter which makes it possible to mount the equipment on a profile, hook or with the use of the magnet
- While working with the lower plane, it is important to have floor targets to level the floors. The laser beam projected on the targets indicates the assumed level.
- While working with the lower beam to accurately set the first row of tiles on the wall (the so-called “zero” line), a laser lift is irreplaceable.
- All types of structures are installed according to laser lines. The problem appears when there is no possibility of projecting such lines on the wall, for example. In such a case, it is necessary to have the construction target with a scale. It allows quick adjustment and installation of a construction element in compliance with the design.
- The laser functions can be managed from one device – choose the proven Bluetooth wireless communication. In comparison with infrared remote controllers, Bluetooth performs better on construction sites. It allows the work over longer distances, and the obstacles do not limit the communication. The operation of a laser crossliner with the use of a mobile application facilitates and simplifies the works.
- Select the devices powered by rechargeable (Li-ion) battery with the possibility of laser-independent charging. It guarantees that the laser is not damaged during its charging, e.g. through using the wrong charger. Such power supply ensures that there are no interruptions in the operation and if there are any problems with the battery, it can be easily replaced.
- A laser should have built-in (1/4”) thread to mount it on a tripod or an extension pole. For the works which require frequent changes of settings and a spot from which measurements are made, e.g. levelling up to 1.8 m, a tripod is a recommended accessory. In the case of static works, inside a building, when the measurements at heights exceeding 1.8 m are required, use a pole. In both situations, it is possible to accurately and precisely set the height and direction of laser beams.
- A laser sensor – used to work over longer distances (exceeding 30 m). It is also necessary for outside works where the laser beam is not visible.
- A laser levelling stave – very useful for classic levelling, i.e. setting the differences at heights.
Deciding on the producer. Why is it worth choosing the Nivel System brand?
Nivel System is a Polish brand that stands for high quality of measuring instruments and accessories. Our business activity was set up in 2003 and ever since has been driven by the experience we gained through the development, manufacture, supply and service of equipment.
Thanks to an extensive network of distributors throughout Europe, Nivel System products are recognized and available in numerous hardware stores and specialist measurement equipment shops.
Customers can test and choose from a wide range of equipment, up to their needs and possibilities.
We provide support through our regional dealers and have one of the most modern diagnostic platforms for construction lasers- Octopus Prime 3D. Nivel System instruments are checked and calibrated before sale as well as provided with a reliable and quick service while in operation.