Dumpy Levels vs Laser Levels: Which Do You Need for Your Job?

When you work in construction, getting the right level or grade is essential to getting the job done right. With a wide range of options available when it comes to getting accurate levels, how do you know which tool is right for your job?

Dumpy Levels

Dumpy levels, also known as surveyor’s levels, builder’s levels or auto levels, are optical measurement tools that are highly accurate in determining height, distance and levels on sites. 

Dumpy levels maintain their accuracy over long distances and use a built-in telescope and bubble along with a measuring staff at the location where the measurement must be taken to establish a reading.

The Topcon AT-B series dumpy levels are durable and dependable. These dumpy levels feature a small, lightweight design and use a finely tuned magnetic dampening system to provide unmatched durability and accuracy. The Topcon AT-B series dumpy levels are suitable for site preparation, earthworks, concreting, drainage and site set-out.

Laser Levels

Laser levels are easily the most versatile tool for modern construction sites. Laser levels send out a precise beam of light that can be detected by a laser receiver or the human eye depending on the model you use.

The Topcon RL-H5A and RL-H5B self-levelling rotating laser levels are easy-to-use, long-range high accuracy laser levels.

The Topcon RL-SV2S dual grade laser level can be used for horizontal, slope and vertical laser applications. Add a Topcon machine laser receiver for a hard-working, accurate grade management tool on earthmoving equipment.

Which should you choose?

Dumpy levels and laser levers are both accurate instruments that can help you complete your jobs faster and with more efficiency, but if you’re trying to choose between the two, here are some things to consider:

• Dumpy levels require two people to operate (one to look through the lens and one to hold the staff), whereas a laser level can be used by one person (holding the staff or operating the machine).
• Dumpy levels are highly accurate even over long distances, whereas laser level accuracy does decrease over distance.
• Laser levels can measure horizontal and vertical angles, dumpy levels only measure on a horizontal plane.
• Dumpy levels tend to be less expensive to purchase than laser levels.
• To maintain accuracy, it is important that dumpy levels are setup level and not disturbed during use. Applying pressure to the tripod or accidentally kicking the leg, even with minor disturbance to the bubble level, can lead to inaccurate measurements.
• Laser levels do not require the same level of manual calculations that are required with a dumpy level (a lot of calculations are required to check the levels and it is easy for human error to cause mistakes).
• Dumpy levels require good light conditions, laser levels can work in a variety of light conditions.
• Laser levels are more versatile than dumpy levels. Laser levels can be used with machine receivers for earthmoving applications. 
  
  

SHOP TOPCON