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How Does a Laser Tape Measure Work?
Laser tape measures are an alternative form of measurement to traditional tape measures.
They can be used to calculate lengths, widths, and heights up to a maximum of 650 feet or 198 meters.
Laser tape measures are considered accurate to within an eighth of an inch when measuring distances up to 300 feet.
That’s why laser measures are typically the tool of choice for contractors, homeowners, architects, flooring professionals, and insurance adjusters.
Laser tape measures work in a similar fashion as a traditional tape measure.
However, rather than utilizing a physical tape, the laser tape measure beams a laser from one point to another to measure the total length, width, or height.
To use a laser measure, simply place the device on the end of where you would like to measure and beam the laser to the other end.
However, be sure that there is an object at the other end so that the laser measure knows where the end point is.
If there is no physical demarcation indicating the end point, you can simply place a target there so that the laser beam ends.
Once you have the laser tape measure at the correct spot, press the button to indicate correct measurement and the laser tape measure will calculate the distance on the screen.
The laser tape measure works through precision optics and laser physics, in which the calculation is done by determining the length of time it takes the laser to reach the end point and back.
Why Opt for a Laser Tape Measure?
While a traditional tape measure can complete the job, the sheer efficiency and ease-of-use that comes with a laser tape measure makes the investment well worth it.
Whereas traditional tape measures can sag, twist, or knot, you won’t have that issue with a laser tape measure.
In addition, traditional tape measures are difficult to use vertically, particularly with high doors, ceilings, or walls.
Lastly, traditional tape measures are simply hard to read.
With a laser tape measure, the digits are prominently shown on the display and can be recorded and referenced.
- Efficient and easy to use
- Doesn’t snag, twist, knot, or fray
- Easy to read and record the digits
- Easy to use for tall or high areas
Disclaimer
Below, we are going to take a look at the best laser measures under $100 which can be purchased on Amazon.
Please note, the product links below include links from an Amazon Associates account.
This means that we at The Corporate Connoisseur receive a small commission on any purchases made from those links.
This is at no additional cost to you and helps to keep our site free, honest, and without bias or prejudice.
Bosch GLM 50 Laser Distance Measurer
The Bosch GLM 50 Laser Distance Measurer is our editor’s best choice for an all-around laser tape measure.
It is a precise laser measurer and can measure up to 165 feet and maintain accuracy within 1/16-inch.
The Bosch GLM 50 includes five different measurement modes, including length, area, volume, continuous measurement, and indirect length measurements.
When utilizing this tool, you can reference three different points, including from the front, from the back, or from the center when used with a tripod.
The automatic backlight display makes viewing the measurements easy and convenient.
Overall, this tool was extremely easy to use and work with.
It is compact in design and weight, making it ideal for bringing on projects.
As this unit is a bit cheaper than other Bosch models, again trying to stay under the $100 mark, it does not have an auto or self-leveling feature.
However, for the price it does a phenomenal job and works extremely well.
Green Beam Laser Measure by Acegmet
In terms of best bang for your buck, you cannot go wrong with the Green Beam Laser Measure by Acegmet.
We were a bit hesitant to try this product due to the relative obscurity of the brand, however, we found that this laser tape measure worked extremely well.
The biggest differentiating factor between this laser tape measure and others that we tested is that the laser beam is green in color, as compared to the traditional red.
This is definitely a huge upgrade as green tends to be more visible, particularly in sunlit conditions.
In terms of measurement, this laser tape measure can measure up to 196 feet.
That’s nearly 40 more feet from the Bosch GLM 50.
It also completes the measurements relatively quickly, typically only needing a fraction of a second to calculate.
Laser Tape Measure 2-in-1
While the above two options were superior in laser strength and distance, we wanted to review a laser tape measure which was a bit more affordable while maintaining the level of accuracy needed.
That’s why we went with the Laser Tape Measure 2-in-1.
This laser tape measure combines the functionality of a laser measure with a traditional tape measure for additional convenience.
The laser tape measure can measure up to 131 feet, with the traditional measure measuring at 16 feet.
While this is a great purchase for everyday use, it may not be the best laser tape measure for professionals.
While accurate, it does not feature a very strong or easily readable LCD screen.
In addition, the laser tape measure is missing a few convenient functionalities which other laser tape measures include.
While great and handy for small, DIY projects, it may be ill suited for larger, more professional ones.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best laser measures under $100 you really can’t go wrong with any of the options we’ve listed.
The Bosch GLM 50 laser tape measure is definitely our editor’s pick and the one with the highest accuracy and functionalities.
However, we highly enjoyed the Green Beam Laser Measure and believe that a laser tape measure which accommodates both colors would be a fun, cool feature.
Lastly, the 2-in-1 laser tape measure did provide both a laser and traditional tape measure, allowing us to switch use depending on our need.
