Popular models
Levels from the professional segment allow you to survey and mark out with great accuracy. For example, the Xliner Duo 360 model supports projecting two light planes at 90 degrees to each other. It is suitable for both indoor and outdoor use. Since this model provides a 360-degree view, it is very convenient to work with it. When operating in the field, it is unnecessary to worry about the safety of the device - its case has an IP54 protection class. A special function of the level is the ability to build inclined planes. The device is equipped with a self-leveling function with a maximum deviation of 4 degrees and an accuracy of 0.2 mm / m.
If, on the contrary, you need a cheap, functional and convenient level, QB Promo from 2500 rubles may be suitable for you. It is also equipped with a compensator for automatic leveling and an increased degree of protection. The level is easy to operate, all the necessary actions are performed with one button. The maximum deviation during auto-leveling is 5 degrees, the accuracy is 0.5 mm / m. This is quite enough for household and construction needs. You can purchase the level from an authorized supplier with a 2-year warranty.
The middle price category includes the Neo G200 level. At the same time, it is unique in its functions. This device uses green laser light, which makes its lines easily visible even at great distances and in bright light. Like other levels in the Neo series, it has a modern, original design. This level has an increased operating range - 50 m, a fairly high accuracy - 0.3 mm / m. Its light planes have a maximum scanning angle of 140 degrees and support the ability to create oblique lines.
Another popular model from the same series is the Neo X200 Set. Like other levels from this range, this device has a powerful laser with an increased range. There is also a pulse function. Its body is designed to provide reliable shockproof protection, and its light planes support tilt projection. The radius of action is 20 m, it can be increased to 60 due to the pulse mode. Self-leveling provides a high accuracy of 0.2 mm / m and a deviation from the horizon no more than 5 degrees.
Another similar model, Neo X1-360, has a horizontal plane of 360 degrees. In combination with the vertical and the ability to draw inclined lines, this makes this tool very convenient for construction markings. Finally, it also supports extended range up to 60m with a multi-frequency laser reflector. Self-leveling accuracy is 0.3 mm / m.
The Neo range has a professional grade model suitable for challenging construction site markings. This is the Neo X2-360. This level has two light planes, one horizontal and one vertical, and both have a 360 degree sweep angle. Thus, it is enough to set the device once at the desired point in the room, and after that its lines will be visible along the entire perimeter. Its range is 30 m, and using the detector, you can draw lines at a distance of 60 m. The device provides an accuracy of up to 0.3 mm / m.
One of the leaders in convenience and accuracy in this review is the Xliner Combo 360 for professional builders. It is also one of the most expensive. Its horizontal plane is projected at 360 degrees and supports a pulse mode that increases the range up to 60 m. The accuracy of the device is very high - 0.2 mm / m. There is an auto-leveling and a plumb line function.
Even more possibilities can be provided by the UniX 360 Green model, which, in addition to the circular horizontal plane of 360 degrees, has a vertical with a scanning angle of 140 degrees. A distinctive feature of this level is a high-precision pendulum compensator, which makes it possible to self-level with a deviation of no more than 0.2 mm / m. The LEDs of this level emit a uniform green light that is clearly visible even in bright sunlight. The working range is 50 m, when using the receiver, you can work in the 100 m range.
The last model reviewed has an improved version - UniX 360 Green Pro. Such a level, in addition to a circular horizontal plane, has two vertical ones and provides high accuracy (up to 0.2 mm / m) in the range up to 100 m.
Advantages and disadvantages
Laser levels, unlike traditional optical ones, require a power source in the form of batteries or rechargeable batteries. But they are compact, working with them is convenient, visual and does not require special skills. Therefore, current market trends are such that laser models are successfully used for household and construction purposes, while optical models are used for professional photography in the field.
As already mentioned, prismatic levels have a short range. But they also have an advantage over rotary models that can be used over long distances. Prismatic levels are reliable because there are no moving parts in their design. The advantages of Condtrol products include simplicity, resistance to various operating conditions and a long service life. Many models, not only rotary ones, even prismatic ones, provide a 360-degree scanning angle of the light plane.
Operating tips
When making a survey of the terrain, assessing the height difference and measuring it, marking with the help of all the above models of levels, certain rules and safety precautions must be observed. To ensure that the laser beam is not interrupted, there must be a line of sight between the level and the object. Although all models of Condtrol levels have a high degree of protection against dust, moisture and mechanical stress (mainly IP54 class), it should be remembered that their microcircuits are not designed to operate at temperatures below 0 ° C and above 50 ° C.
Be aware that eye contact with the laser can injure a person or animal. Warn everyone on site before taking measurements. Wear protective goggles. To perform correct shooting, measurement and marking, you need to install the device on a flat surface or on a tripod. In this case, the built-in compensator is of great benefit. When the deviation from the horizon begins to exceed the permissible threshold, for some models, a sound signal is triggered, and for others, LEDs flash.
Peculiarities
The main distinguishing features of Condtrol products are the use of innovative technologies, quality and availability of products. The company is serious about the development and implementation of modern technical solutions, cooperates with Asian manufacturers of elements of measuring devices. The production is organized in such a way that a high-quality measuring instrument has become available at a relatively low price and has won a leading position not only in the domestic market, but also in other CIS countries. When buying a Condtrol laser from an authorized supplier, you get a 2-year warranty.
Package contents and characteristics
The main working function of a laser level is to project the light emitted from the LED into a plane to determine the height difference between two points. In most Condtrol models, this projection is done using a multi-prism optical system. The LED laser beam is collected in a plane, passing through a special prism. There are several such prisms in the device, depending on how many planes it can project. The simplest models of levels have two planes: horizontal and vertical. The standard equipment includes a tripod with a universal mount, which is necessary for level setting of the level during shooting.
Multiprism levels have one drawback - they do not allow you to build planes at a great distance. Typically, such devices are used in closed rooms, their range does not exceed 20 m, unless a special radiation receiver is used. To overcome this problem, some of the laser models discussed here use a rotary projection system. The planes of light in them are built by rotating the LEDs.The range of these devices is much higher, it can reach 200-500 m. If you use a radiation receiver when shooting, then the range can reach 1 km.
Dimensions and ergonomics
Developers strive to design levels to be compact and lightweight without sacrificing functionality. The dimensions of most models do not exceed 120-130 mm. For the convenience of the user, a tripod is attached to the levels, which allows you to set the device exactly on the horizon. Many models have a compensator - an automatic leveling system by correcting the tilt angle of the instrument axis. This way, you don't even have to worry about manually setting the horizon.
Design
The plastic case of the models produced to date is made with the expectation of maximum functionality and comfort. To protect it from shocks and drops, it is covered with a silicone bumper. The inside of the case usually has a metal frame, which gives it additional rigidity. The element of the level, for which it is held during operation, is made with a special ribbed surface. You can choose a model whose LEDs emit red or green light, which is projected onto the surface of the object in the form of bright, clearly visible lines.