The Best Transit Levels on the Market
You might know about transit levels if you are a builder, civil engineer, construction professional, or DIYer. These levels help find the contours in the land so that the ground can be leveled for building projects like houses, bridges, or wells.
If you’re looking for one, we’ve compiled a list of the best transit levels. These are the best levels for transit.
8 Best Transit Level Reviews
1.DEWALT DW090PK 20X
It is an excellent tool for people who need to measure things for agricultural, construction, or civil projects. The 20x zoom on the Dewalt DW090PK builders level toolbox allows you to view objects from afar. It is precise to 1/4 in for every 100 feet of distance.
You can get a tripod that makes it easy to level your house. The legs are adjustable, so you can make it fit well, and the plumb bob helps ensure everything is straight. You also get an 8-foot aluminum-grade stick and a durable case to keep your laser safe.
This builder’s level can measure both vertical and horizontal lines. It is accurate to a ¼” per every 100 feet. The 360-degree horizontal circle with the Vernier scale can help you measure horizontal or level angles precisely.
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2.SitePro 25–TL20X
This transit level is easy to use and perfect for leveling and vertical applications. It comes with clamps and tangents, so you can quickly get your level up. The 20x magnification ensures you can see as far downfield as 200 feet. The three-screw leveling base provides a quick and easy setup.
A handy feature of this level is that it has a built-in sunshade with a rubber eyepiece. It ensures you can complete your surveys accurately, even when the sun is high in the sky. It also includes a rugged carry bag to keep your level safe when not in use and a user manual.
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3. NWI NSLP500B Siteline
This category of siteline transit is intended for large construction and agricultural jobs. It features a 20x magnification, allowing you to see well from a distance of up to 200 feet.
This model is accurate, with a precision of 1/4″ for every 100 feet of range. It also has a very lightweight design, weighing only 13 pounds. It makes it highly portable. This model measures 11′′ x 5.5′′ x 7.5′′.
It is a basic transit level kit that will meet most of your needs. It is why many builders consider it to be the all-in-one transit level.
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4.DEWALT DW092PK 20X
This DeWalt transit level is known for being a quality tool. It can be used for various projects, including DIY, construction, civil, and agricultural labor. It has many features, like a 20x magnification so you can see over 200 feet away and accuracy of 1/4″ for every 100 feet of range. A 360-degree graduated circle with a Vernier scale lets you measure horizontal and vertical angles.
This transit level is an excellent choice because a well-known brand makes it. It comes with a rugged aluminum tripod and a heavy-duty leveling base, making it easy to set up quickly.
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5.CST/Berger 54-200B
This transit level is popular with builders and civil engineers because it is versatile. It can produce horizontal and vertical measurements, which is why it is so helpful when leveling the ground or establishing pitch. It also has an effective range of 200 feet and an accuracy of ¼” for every 100 feet, making it a valuable tool for construction professionals.
This brass level has screws that will help you set it up quickly and easily. It is also built to last so you can use it for many years.
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6. Meridian 22X Transit Level David White LT6-900
This precision tool is perfect for both home improvement and large-scale surveyor jobs. It has a 22x optical magnification, so you can see things clearly up to 60 meters away. It is also accurate to ¼” every 100 feet.
This transit level can measure horizontal angles with great accuracy. The horizontal circle has single-degree gradients to help precision, and the horizontal lock and tangent screw keep everything in place.
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7. BOSCH GOL 32CK
This Bosch transit level has an optical zoom of up to 32x, meaning you can see a clear image up to 400 feet away. It is incredibly accurate, with a ± 1/16 for every 100 ft. This transit level is self-leveling and has a self-leveling compensator, vertical and horizontal Stadia lines, and crosshairs.
You get an aluminum leveling row, an aluminum tripod, a plumb bob, a lens cap, and a sturdy travel case to assist you in calibrating your camera. In this manner, you can keep your camera safe and level when not in use.
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8. JOHNSON LEVEL & TOOL 40-6912 22X
The Johnson level is an excellent builders level mentioned on this site multiple times. It is versatile and perfect for DIYers who need to level floors, patios, driveways, and foundations.
This tool helps grade ditches, curbs, and streets. You can also use it to level fences and for other construction activities. The leveling screws are large and easy to turn. The tool includes a horizontal circle plus a vernier that reads straight to 15 minutes.
The sunshade on this spotting scope ensures excellent visibility, even in direct sunlight. The vertical arc also reads 45-0-45 degrees, so you can use it however you need to. You also get an aluminum tripod, hard-shell transport case, instruction guidebook with warranty card, and a 13′ aluminum ranks shaft with a carrying bag.
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Buyers Guide
What is a Transit Level?
If you need to level the ground, you will need a transit level. It is a tool that builders, architects, civil engineers, and everyday homeowners use to measure their work. The transit level can help identify contours in the land and the surface area that will be used for construction.
A transit level is a type of telescope with a built-in leveling tool and base. Construction workers often use it to survey and finalize their construction and engineering plans.
Why You Need a Transit Level
You can use a transit level if you need to ensure your land is level before starting a construction project. This tool will help identify any areas on the land that need to be made level.
This tool is used to check the grading, leveling, and turning angles. You might need a transit level to take vertical measurements (plumbing or plumb measurements). A standard builder’s level usually takes flat or horizontal measures.
Benefits of Transit Levels
The main advantage of using lasers to build is that it prevents measurement errors. It means construction workers don’t have to worry about mistakes that could lead to long-term problems, such as foundation damage. This way, you won’t have any unexpected bills in the long run stemming from foundation problems.
- Other benefits include:
- Optimal magnification helps you to see the necessary grading and vertical angles in greater detail.
- Ensure turning angle correctness
- Allows you to select your working range.
- Aids in alignment and plumb checking during construction projects.
Different Types of Transit Levels
Automatic
A self-leveling transit level is used to keep things accurate and level, even if the ground shakes or moves. Automatic transit levels can stay accurate in different environments and are tough enough to handle moving around a lot.
The traditional model of a graduated leveling vial produces slightly inaccurate results due to outside factors such as ground vibration and temperature changes. Automatic levels use compensators to stabilize the line of sight, making them much more accurate. Therefore, they are the perfect choice for large-scale projects or rugged terrain.
Speed Line
It is a transit level good for making rough angles and fine-tuning measurements. The level will include clamps or tangents that stabilize the tool, making it easy to set up.
Some models also incorporate vertical arcs that work in conjunction with horizontal circles to measure angles precisely.
Universal
It is a transit level that you will see often. It is designed for use on any horizontal and vertical angles. It can be used for many purposes, such as localized building projects, extensive surveying, or agricultural jobs.
When to Use Transit Levels
Transit levels help determine straight lines and accurate measurements at the start of a construction or surveying project. It is essential for projects that need to be very precise, like when you are trying to measure the height of a surface or target. Some people believe you can use global positioning systems (GPS) for these tasks. Still, transit levels are necessary to get an accurate grade or slope in any hands-on construction or engineering project.
How to Use Transit Levels
To start, you need to make sure that your base is set up on a stable surface. Then, use the transit level’s telescope to find your base positioning. Then, turn the telescope 90 degrees until the Instrument reads center. After establishing a baseline, rotate the Instrument 360 degrees (in 90-degree increments) to start leveling. Different brands have different functions, so see the user manual for specifics.
Best Practices for Transit Levels
- Operation – The use of a transit level is simple and safe. Before using it, you should put on gloves to protect your hands and find a sturdy surface to work on.
- Safety – Make sure to keep your transit in a case, so it doesn’t get damaged on a construction site.
- Storage – Most transit levels come with a hard carry case that will protect the Instrument from damage. It is required, especially if you intend to use your transit level on a construction site. When not in use, keep the tool in an excellent, dry location.
Builder’s Level versus Transit Level
How do you know what type of builders levels vs. transit levels to get for your needs?
A transit level is a telescope with an integrated level used to survey structures or construction sites.
Transit levels differ from builders because they help you accurately measure things vertically. Builder’s levels are suitable for taking horizontal measurements, which is why they’re perfect for many large and small construction projects.
Many similarities exist between constructors and transit tiers. The main difference is that a builder’s level can be used to establish horizontal angles in a 360-degree circle. In contrast, a transit level can only provide vertical or plumb angles. However, the builder’s level is less flexible and portable than the transit level.
You’ve got two levels to choose from–vertical or horizontal. After you decide which one you need, you can pick the right level for the job.
Which is better: Builder’s Level or Transit Level?
You need to think about the question of “Do you need a Builder’s Level or a Transit Level?” carefully. Each has limitations, so you should decide based on your specific needs.
A transit level is required when establishing plumb or verticle angles.
Best Transit Levels Reviews
People are not just using transit to get to work anymore. They are using it to build their dream homes. It means that you must be careful and ensure everything is perfect. You don’t want your home to be like everyone else’s.
Transit levels are beneficial when you need to make calculations or measurements for your construction project. You can use them to measure horizontal and vertical angles. But selecting the appropriate transit level for you can be challenging. Many different types can take care of both big and small needs. So it is essential to think carefully about what you want before you make a decision.
We have compiled a list of the five best transit levels. They are all excellent options, and we have made it easy to understand the specifications so that you can save time and effort.
1. Leica Geosystems 840383 NA332 360 Degree Auto Optical Level
If you are looking for an easy-to-use optical transit level, look at the Leica Geosystems NA332 360 Degree Auto Optical Level. This level is perfect for professional land surveying and construction tasks. It is said to be very accurate and easy to set up.
This transit level is easy to use and comfortable, making it less tiring to use for long periods. It also has a strong enclosure that protects it from water and dust, which can handle the most challenging job site.
The transit level is accurate and easy to use because of its internal compensator mechanism and 32x magnification. These features help the transit level provide precise levels and measurements over long distances.
This package includes a Leica transit level, tripod, mounting bracket, grade rod, carrying case, alkaline battery, magnetic target, and protective glasses. When you purchase this package, you will have everything you need to complete the leveling or grading task.
2. Johnson Level 40-0921 Self-Leveling Cross Line Laser Level Kit
This Johnson Level kit is an excellent value for anyone who needs to do horizontal and vertical leveling simultaneously. It includes everything you need for the job, including a cross-line laser level, an elevating tripod, tinted glasses, and a hard-shell carrying case.
With or without a tripod, you can use the self-leveling laser level. It is helpful for small to large indoor projects because it has a range of up to 100 feet. Some users say the light intensity from the laser is suitable for outdoor projects. If not, the tinted glasses should help you see the laser lines more clearly.
This Johnson Level instrument is easy to use. It only takes a few steps to set it up:
- Turn the power knob.
- Mount the laser on the tripod.
- Set the angles using the protractor scale on the laser’s base.
The angle can be set anywhere from zero to 360 degrees, depending on what a task requires.
The level is excellent for harsh working conditions. Its IP54 enclosure protects it from dirt, oil, moisture, and other corrosive materials that could be present in one’s work area.
3. NWI NSLP100B Siteline Level Package
The NWI NSLP100B Siteline Level Package is a great way to achieve high leveling accuracy without spending too much money. This model is affordable and still has excellent quality.
This product is said to be useful for various construction and surveying tasks. It has a transit level, carrying case, tripod, 9-foot grade rod, and plumb bob. It allows for great precision, as it has 1/4-inch accuracy at 100 feet and horizontal crosshair with 1:100 stadia lines. It can also magnify target points 20 times over a 200-foot range.
Not only is this optical transit level accurate, but it is also challenging. It has a housing that is IP54-rated, and the lens has a rubber jacket. It makes it perfect for use on the field, even in harsh conditions.
4. AdirPro 22X Automatic Speed Line Optical Transit Level
The AdirPro Automatic Optical Transit Level is a high-quality product with good reviews. Some people might not have heard of this brand, but users say they are happy with their purchase. This product has many useful features and deserves to be placed on the same list as other better-known brands.
This optical transit level comes with a 1-degree vertical arc and a 15-minute horizontal circle. It is also made with durable aircraft aluminum telescopes with sliding locks. The achromatic-coated objective lens has a built-in sunshade. Additionally, it has a non-strip focus knob and dust-protected eyepiece with crosshairs.
The optical transit level has top-of-the-line components that can resist harsh field conditions. It also reduces glare, lets users see reference points quickly, and provides them with sharp images.
This optical transit level is easy to use because it has a plumb bob, brass screws that help you level it, and a high-precision glass level. It is also suitable for making setups easier. But it can be a little complicated for first-time users. Professionals or people who have used transit levels will find this one helpful on the job site.
5. NWI NSLP500B Siteline Transit Level Package
The Northwest Instrument Siteline Transit Level has entered this list of 2022’s best transit levels because it is a great tool. It is a little more expensive than the first transit level on the list. Still, it offers an additional feature the other one does not have: +/- 45-degree transit capability. This feature makes the NSLP500B transit level ideal for accurate vertical angles.
This transit level can measure both vertical and horizontal angles. It has a horizontal circle with a vernier scale that is accurate to 1/4 inches over 100 feet. It means that it can give exact measurements for both angles and distances.
This transit level is perfect for hobbyists and land surveyors. It has a multi-layer coated lens protected by a rubber lens jacket. Plus, it has 20x magnification and stadia lines, making it easy to view readings up to 200 feet away. It is also water-resistant and dust-resistant because it has an IP54 housing. It operates smoothly and quickly because of its continuous tangent drive.
Final Thoughts
Every constructor and transportation level is simple to set up, read, and utilize. So choose one that meets all of your requirements. Hopefully, my unbiased reviews have assisted you in selecting the optimal transit level for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions About Best Transit Level
A transit level is a type of telescope that has a spirit level attached to it. This Instrument is used mainly for surveying and construction. Still, it can also measure the relative position of lines and objects. Transit levels are very accurate.
A transit level is one of the best optical instrument types commonly used in surveying. This Instrument can help measure distances, angles, and coordinates. It is usually rotated to point toward the target.
The builder’s level is very accurate. It has a measurement precision of 14 inches per 100 feet. It also includes a 20x magnification, allowing you to see clearly from a distance of 200 feet. Plus, it is easy to set up and comes with a measuring rod for your partner.
Find the spot on the ground that you want your laser detector to be. Position the measuring rod there. Please activate the laser detector and move it up and down. When you hear a beep, you’ve discovered the level.
A clinometer is an instrument for measuring vertical angles. It usually has a graduated arc similar to a protractor. You hold it in your palm and read the slope against the arc to use it.
The Instrument can be slowly moved around the circle using the upper horizontal tangent screw. The upper clamp and tangent screw are used to take a sequence of measurements of horizontal angles.
