Level is a measuring device, without which it is simply impossible to imagine carrying out any geodetic work. The tool used to determine the difference in heights of two points is also widely used by builders and installers in the construction of buildings, finishers - when carrying out repairs and assemblers of furniture and various structures. It is customary to distinguish between several types of devices used for completely different purposes - from professional to ordinary household use. Our rating will help a potential buyer to answer the question - which ADA Instruments level is better to buy?
What levels are there?
First of all, it is customary to divide levels according to the principle of operation into optical and laser ones. This classification can be supplemented with digital instruments that display the measured data on the display, and are also capable of storing and analyzing the information received.
Optical devices have been known for a long time, while retaining their importance to this day. With this method, the parameters of the points are determined using a light beam and a specially marked scale with divisions. Such an instrument is equipped with a telescope with an eyepiece and sight, as well as special devices for precise alignment of the system in a certain plane. The use of optical levels to take measurements requires special knowledge and skills. At the same time, this device allows to achieve good measurement accuracy, is reliable in operation and is not susceptible to environmental conditions.
Laser devices project directional lines or points onto virtually any surface. These devices are more often called "laser levels". They appeared relatively recently, but gained wide popularity, especially in the domestic sphere of use. A universal laser level is capable of replacing several devices at once: an ordinary level, as a rule, a square and a plumb line. These devices are comparatively easy to use and allow you to work in confined spaces. Of the minuses, it is worth noting the sensitivity of the laser to the environment. Most of these devices are designed for stable operation only indoors.
It is necessary to highlight the following types of laser levels:
- point;
- linear;
- combined;
- rotary.
When using point lasers, the beam on the surface is projected as a point indicating the desired direction. This type of levels can emit from three to five rays, thanks to which it is possible to build lines perpendicular to each other. Using point levels, it is convenient to mark walls and partitions for finishing work.
Linear instruments are equipped with prisms that display the laser beam as a horizontal or vertical line. As a rule, such a tool has at least two beams in the horizontal and vertical directions, which makes it possible to obtain a cross of two lines when projecting. The use of these devices is usually limited in length from the source and environmental conditions (more often they are used only indoors). This type is perfect for laying tiles or curbs.
Combo fixtures combine point and line functionality. These devices are usually used for works of increased complexity and responsibility, are extremely rarely used in everyday life, therefore they are distinguished by a high price.
The laser radiation of the rotary levels is carried out by a special rotating head located on top of the device. This allows the laser to cover an area of 360 degrees, which makes projection easier by eliminating the need to move instruments during operation. Such devices are used mainly on large construction sites - industrial facilities, stadiums, etc.
How to choose the best level?
The choice of a level for domestic or professional construction purposes is a very responsible and complex process. When buying, it is necessary to take into account a number of selection criteria that determine which particular instrument will become desirable, and more importantly, the most applicable. You should not pay attention only to the price and popularity of the models; to purchase the best levels, you should focus on the following:
- Purpose of the level
Of course, the initial choice of the principle of operation of the device and its price category depends on this criterion. It is important not to make a mistake at this stage. Complex landscaping, building a house, minor household repairs - what you need a level for will determine the next steps for the optimal selection of the required tool.
- Measurement accuracy
This is one of the defining characteristics of levels and laser levels. For household work, the error is not so critical and the required accuracy can be up to 1 mm per 1 m. In the case of professional devices used for construction and geodetic work, the error should not exceed 0.2-0.3 mm per 1 m.
- Measurement range
Among laser devices, rotary devices have the maximum measurement range - up to 500-600 meters. A common point or line tool used, for example, for indoor work, has a range of up to 50 meters. Moreover, this indicator can be increased using a special receiver. For optical levels, the maximum distance is determined using the magnification factor. For a range of no more than 50 meters, it is sufficient to use a multiplicity of 20-24x. In the case of a longer range (for example, when landscaping or repairing a roadway), it is necessary to increase the multiplicity to 28-32x.
- Alignment type
The simplest type is manual alignment, in which the position of the device is controlled by a bubble level built into the housing.
More advanced devices are equipped with a self-leveling function, which is carried out using a pendulum or electronics. The wrong position of the level is signaled by a special sound or light signal. Despite some rise in price, such devices are very convenient to use because of the significantly less time to prepare for marking. In addition, there are models with a function to disable self-leveling, for example, when you need to mark at an angle.
- Additional functions
Among the most necessary is the presence of a thread for a stationary mount on a tripod. This is an extremely important point for professional leveling options.Some models (notably rotary lasers) are equipped with an optional remote control for remote use.
Another significant factor is the protection of the level from external factors and damage during operation and transportation. It is recommended to have a degree of protection of the device against contamination not lower than IP54 for devices operating in open areas and not lower than IP21 for household appliances intended for indoor use.
- Equipment
The purchase of the level will slightly increase the cost, while making its use as convenient as possible, the presence of a tripod, case or cover for the safety of the device, additional batteries, a measuring rod and a laser receiver.
In case you opted for an optical device, you need to know that all modern levels have a direct image and an automatic compensator (air or magnetic).
When choosing a laser level, you also need to determine the required number and direction of the beams, as well as their color. Due to the strong dependence of such devices on power sources, it is necessary to take care of the energy efficiency of the tool in advance.
Thus, the determining factor when choosing a level should not be the fact how much it costs, but the compliance of a set of factors with the buyer's requirements. Do not repeat the typical mistakes of users' choice, as a result of which the purchased level turned out to be of little use for work. It is more important to weigh all the advantages and disadvantages and choose the right solution.
ADA instruments is a brand of quality measuring equipment
Which level is better to choose? This question arises when choosing a suitable device one of the very first. According to buyers, ADA Instruments is one of the best manufacturers of optical and laser instruments for measuring and marking. The popular ADA models are considered one of the best selling construction levels and levels on the market.
Founded just ten years ago, the company is one of the leaders in the production of high-quality equipment for measurement and diagnostics during construction and geodetic works. ADA is short for Additional Accuracy, which means additional accuracy. This phrase is the real watchword in the production of ADA equipment.
The firm is a multinational brand that has absorbed skills, achievements and opportunities from all over the world. ADA is strong with a team of engineering and manufacturing professionals. The tool released by the company passes all the necessary tests and control operations. Thus, only high-quality products fall into the hands of the owner of ADA Instruments devices.
The company offers a huge selection of levels with different principles of operation: both a professional optical instrument and inexpensive laser options for the home. Below is a ranking of the top quality ADA Instruments devices that are the most popular in 2024, with an overview of the technical specifications, as well as a description of the advantages and disadvantages of each model.
Top Best ADA Instruments Optical Levels in 2024
| ADA Instruments Basis | ADA Instruments RUBER-X32 | ADA Instruments PROF X32 with verification |
Accuracy, mm / m | 2.5 | 0.3 | 1.5 |
Objective diameter, mm | 38 | 36 | 32 |
Magnification factor | x20 | x32 | x32 |
Weight, kg | 1.65 | 2.1 | 1.8 |
Average price, p | 8000-11000 | 10200-15000 | 14400-20000 |
ADA Instruments Basis (А00117)
Inexpensive popular option. Suitable for solving any tasks in the field of construction and geodesy. Has a built-in bubble level for presetting and an air expansion joint for final installation in the horizon. The level is equipped with a swivel base with light indication and a 5/8 ″ tripod thread.
ADA Instruments Basis (А00117)
Advantages:
- Convenient ergonomic model;
- Inexpensive price;
- Good optics, clearly visible staff;
- Set of adjustment tools, plumb bob and case included.
Disadvantages:
- Low accuracy;
- Long-term initial tool setting;
- The need for a separate purchase of verification;
- No tripod as standard.
ADA Instruments RUBER-X32 (А001)
A good optical instrument with a rubberized housing for use in all climates. Equipped with reinforced threads to reduce damage from falls. The package includes a special cover screw for fixing the expansion joint during transportation. Precise aiming and built-in reticle for pre-aiming.
ADA Instruments RUBER-X32 (А001)
Advantages:
- High accuracy;
- Excellent resistance to environmental conditions (vibration, temperature, etc.);
- Air-magnetic compensator of a new type to ensure measurement reliability;
- Two-year manufacturer's warranty.
Disadvantages:
- Fragile case;
- Lack of verification.
ADA Instruments PROF X32 with verification (А00199)
Professional model, upon purchase of which you will receive a state-recognized verification certificate. Equipped with a swivel base with a spherical part in the center for attachment to a tripod with a round head, which is simply necessary for quick set-up with a large number of measurements. The coated optics allows the device to be used when shooting at long distances.
ADA Instruments PROF X32 with verification (А00199)
Advantages:
- The ability to take measurements at a distance of up to 120 meters;
- Sound and light indication during alignment;
- Auto-off function;
- Verification certificate included;
- Low cost in comparison with analogues.
Disadvantages:
- Lack of a tripod and rail included;
- Certain knowledge is required to use.
Best ADA Instruments line laser levels in 2024
| ADA instruments CUBE Home Edition (А00342) | ADA instruments 2D Basic Level (А00239) | ADA Instruments 3D Liner 4V (A00133) |
Accuracy, mm / m | 0.2 | 0.3 | 0.2 |
Maximum measurement range (without receiver), m | 20 | 20 | 40 |
Number of vertical / horizontal lines | 1/1 | 1/1 | 4/1 |
Number of crosshairs | 1 | 1 | 2 |
Vertical / horizontal angle, º | 100/100 | 160/180 | 120/360 |
Weight, kg | 0.24 | 0.25 | 0.9 |
Average price, p | 3100-4500 | 4800-7000 | 10100-15000 |
ADA Instruments CUBE Home Edition (A00342)
Simple budget model of the Cube series with a heavy-duty case. Very small and extremely comfortable. It only requires two batteries to function. Simple operation - start and stop by pressing one button. The device is equipped with automatic leveling, a change in position is indicated by an audible signal. The device is equipped with a universal mount for fixing the level on any plane.
ADA Instruments CUBE Home Edition (A00342)
Advantages:
- Lightweight and small;
- Inexpensive cost and availability;
- Good accuracy for its segment;
- Displays bright and clear lines.
Disadvantages:
- Lack of operation mode with the receiver;
- There is no possibility of separate switching of horizontal and vertical lines;
- The inability to function with the compensator turned off.
ADA Instruments 2D Basic Level (A00239)
An affordable option for a wide variety of marking tasks. Beam sweep up to 180º in the horizontal and 160º in the vertical plane. The compensator has a special lock to prevent damage during storage and transportation. The vertical beam is guided to the surface using a convenient micrometer screw. The time of continuous work without recharging can be up to 15 hours. The device has a low battery indicator, as well as a magnetic target and glasses included.
ADA Instruments 2D Basic Level (A00239)
Advantages:
- Wide sweep of laser beams;
- The ability to work with the receiver;
- Bubble level for presetting;
- Compensator with fast response.
Disadvantages:
- Not the brightest line;
- Short range in receiver mode (only 30 meters)
ADA Instruments 3D Liner 4V (A00133)
Professional multifunctional tool that draws four vertical and one horizontal planes and plumb points up and down. The device is used to draw lines both in a building and in open areas. The device has a compensator for self-leveling, an indicator light for displacement and an impeccably precise rotation mechanism. A real find for both "amateurs" and experienced builders.
ADA Instruments 3D Liner 4V (A00133)
Advantages:
- Huge functionality;
- Smooth rotary limb;
- Possibility of separate switching of lines;
- The kit includes an extension cord;
- Creates clear lines.
Disadvantages:
- There is no option to work with compensator blocking;
- There is no wall mount.
Popular ADA Instruments Combo Lasers in 2024
| ADA Instruments PROLiner 4V (A00474) | ADA Instruments ULTRALiner 360 4V Set (A00477) | ADA Instruments 6D SERVOLINER (A00139) |
Accuracy, mm / m | 0.2 | 0.2 | 0.1 |
Maximum measurement range (without receiver), m | 20 | 20 | 10 |
Number of vertical / horizontal lines | 4/1 | 4/1 | 4/4 |
Number of crosshairs | 2 | 5 | 5 |
Number of projected points | 1 | 1 | 1 |
Vertical / horizontal angle, º | -/140 | -/360 | 270/360 |
Weight, kg | 0.9 | 0.9 | 3.4 |
Average price, p | 7800-9900 | 18700-21900 | 23900-36900 |
ADA Instruments PROLiner 4V (A00474)
A laser level ideal for all finishing jobs on all surfaces. Designed to build four vertical and one horizontal planes, and is also equipped with a full plumb line. Bright laser beams are used for projection (laser class 2 with a wavelength of 635 nm). The mechanism of the device is specially designed for use in harsh conditions - the swivel base and other mechanisms are made of high-strength material, the case is equipped with a special rubber shockproof protection and protection from dust and dirt. The PROLiner 4V can be mounted on a tripod of any height or wall bracket.
ADA Instruments PROLiner 4V (A00474)
Advantages
- Simple and easy to use;
- The ability to build four verticals and a plumb line;
- Bright and clear laser beam;
- The ability to build planes at an angle;
- Great price for its class.
Disadvantages:
- Relatively small horizontal angle.
ADA Instruments ULTRALiner 360 4V Set (A00477)
A combined level with well thought-out functionality at a relatively inexpensive price. Suitable for various types of work, including outdoors in sunny weather. Projects a clear circular horizontal plane plus four vertical planes plus a laser plummet. Powered by four AA batteries at a temperature range of -10 to + 40 ° C. It is worth noting the almost perfect accuracy (error no more than 0.1 mm / m) with a good optical line system.
ADA Instruments ULTRALiner 360 4V Set (A00477)
Advantages:
- The ability to build a closed horizon 360º;
- Leveling off function;
- Convenient control of switching modes and planes;
- Ability to work outdoors with the receiver at a distance of up to 70 meters
- Tripod up to 3.4 meters high included.
Disadvantages:
- Microscrew with insufficiently clear response.
ADA Instruments 6D SERVOLINER (A00139)
A true flagship among ADA Instruments laser products. A real dream for many professionals. Constructs five crosshairs and one plumb point - an indispensable item on any construction site. A unique system for controlling servo drives makes it possible to achieve the highest marking accuracy. The device uses an electronic compensator that reliably monitors deviations in position during use. Ultra-high reliability and dust protection, stylish design, maximum operating temperature up to + 40 ° C and advanced functionality make 6D SERVOLINER a real leader among competitors.
ADA Instruments 6D SERVOLINER (A00139)
Advantages:
- Accuracy and reliability;
- Ability to control six directions at once;
- Work from an outlet;
- Self-leveling angle up to 3.5º;
- Smooth dial with graduated scale.
Disadvantages:
- Limited range without a dedicated receiver;
- Large overall dimensions.
The most popular rotary lasers from ADA Instruments
| ADA Instruments ROTARY 400 HV Servo (A00458) | ADA Instruments ROTARY 500 H Servo (A00338) |
Accuracy, mm / m | 0.15 | 0.15 |
Maximum measurement range (with receiver), m | 400 | 500 |
Number of vertical / horizontal lines | 1/1 | 1/- |
Number of crosshairs | 2 | |
Vertical / horizontal angle, º | -/360 | -/360 |
Weight, kg | 1.5 | 1.2 |
Average price, p | 25500-29900 | 25500-29900 |
ADA Instruments ROTARY 400 HV Servo (A00458)
Rotary level, equipped with a modern electronic compensator, controlled by servo drives. Provides the construction of two perpendicular planes at a distance of up to 400 meters. The device has an adjustable speed of the emitter in the range of up to 600 rpm. The level has convenient control and is equipped with a universal mount for a tripod or any surface (the bracket is included in the kit).It is widely used in construction and finishing works, as well as in terrain and road planning.
ADA Instruments ROTARY 400 HV Servo (A00458)
Advantages:
- High accuracy and compensation of deviations up to 5º;
- Servo alignment using special deflection sensors;
- The ability to adjust the speed of movement;
- Possibility of constructing a plumb line.
Disadvantages:
- Maximum length limitation;
- The battery life is shorter than other similar models.
ADA Instruments ROTARY 500 H Servo (A00338)
Laser level with rotary mechanism with maximum range of marking actions. Short and extremely reliable installation of the device at specified points. Able to work continuously for at least 30 hours at a minimum temperature of -10 ° C. The use of the device can often be found when laying various lines of communication, installing ceilings, marking curved planes, etc.
ADA Instruments ROTARY 500 H Servo (A00338)
Advantages:
- Maximum range - up to 500 meters;
- The ability to use the remote control;
- The function of changing the angle of inclination of the device, thanks to which you can plan slopes in the horizontal plane;
- A rechargeable battery or 4 AA batteries is used for power supply.
Disadvantages:
- Bulky;
- Lack of a plumb line.
Brief summary
ADA Instruments manufactures a wide range of optical and laser levels for a variety of applications. The devices of this company are distinguished by special accuracy and reliability, are not afraid of environmental influences and are multifunctional. Modern alignment and control systems virtually eliminate the possibility of errors in measurements and markings.
When choosing the right tool from ADA Instruments, a number of criteria must be followed to help you select the best model for use. Devices of this brand are inexpensive compared to similar offers from other manufacturers, and they are hardly inferior in quality to competitors, therefore, purchasing the best levels and laser levels listed in this rating is a very worthy option for novice builders and experienced professionals.