Ryobi Multi Surface Laser Level

The Ryobi Multi Surface Laser Level, model ELL1750, has been a surprisingly versatile addition to my toolkit. As someone who frequently undertakes various DIY projects around the house, I found the features of this laser level both practical and innovative.

Design and Build Quality

The design of this laser level is compact and user-friendly. It includes three different mounting options: push pins for surfaces like drywall and wood, suction cups for smooth surfaces such as glass and tile, and magnets for metal surfaces. The inclusion of these options makes it adaptable to a wide range of tasks, from hanging pictures on the living room wall to installing shelves in the kitchen.

However, the suction cups could use some improvement. While they work well on perfectly smooth surfaces, they struggle on slightly textured or painted walls. This limitation can be frustrating, especially if you’re trying to avoid leaving marks on your walls with the push pins. The magnets, on the other hand, hold well on metal surfaces and add a layer of convenience.

Functionality and Features

One of the standout features is the 90-degree protractor, which allows for precise angular leveling. This is particularly useful for projects that require more than just horizontal or vertical alignment. I found this feature invaluable when installing a series of floating shelves in my study, as it ensured each shelf was perfectly aligned with the others.

The laser range of up to 20 feet is more than adequate for most household tasks. In reasonably lit conditions, the laser line is visible and clear across a typical room. However, it does struggle in very bright environments. If you’re working in a well-lit space, you might need to dim the lights slightly to see the laser line clearly.

Ease of Use

Setting up the laser level is straightforward. The controls are intuitive, and the bubble vials for leveling are easy to read. However, precision can be an issue. The bubble vials are small, and even a slight deviation can result in a misaligned laser line over longer distances. This means you need to be meticulous when setting it up to ensure accuracy.

One minor annoyance is that you cannot operate the laser without engaging the vacuum/suction mechanism, which can make initial alignment a bit tricky. This is something to keep in mind if you’re working alone and need to make frequent adjustments.

Practical Applications

In practice, the Ryobi laser level excels in a variety of tasks. For instance, I used it to install a TV wall mount in the living room. The laser made it easy to ensure the mount was level, resulting in a perfectly aligned TV. The multiple mounting options also came in handy when I needed to switch between different surfaces.

Another project where this tool proved its worth was laying laminate flooring. The laser helped me maintain a straight line across the room, ensuring the planks were laid evenly. This saved me a considerable amount of time and effort compared to using a traditional level.

Limitations

Despite its many strengths, the Ryobi laser level does have some drawbacks. The suction cups, as mentioned earlier, are not very effective on painted or slightly textured surfaces. This means you might have to resort to using the push pins, which can leave small holes in your walls.

Additionally, the laser line is not as bright as some high-end models. While it’s sufficient for most indoor tasks, it may not be ideal for outdoor projects or very bright indoor environments. If you’re planning to use it in such conditions, you might need to find ways to improve visibility, such as working during dusk or dimming the lights.

Another issue is the lack of a continuous laser line. The laser projects a series of dots rather than a solid line, which can make it difficult to achieve precise alignment over longer distances. This is a significant drawback if you need a continuous line for tasks like tiling or installing long shelves.

Value for Money

Considering its price, the Ryobi Multi Surface Laser Level offers good value. It’s not a professional-grade tool, but it’s more than adequate for most household tasks. The range of features, including the multiple mounting options and the 90-degree protractor, make it a versatile tool that can handle a variety of projects.

Final Recommendation

Would I recommend the Ryobi Multi Surface Laser Level? Yes, but with some reservations. It’s a great tool for DIY enthusiasts and homeowners who need a versatile and easy-to-use laser level for occasional projects. Its adaptability and range of features make it a useful addition to any toolkit.

However, if you’re a professional contractor or someone who frequently works in very bright environments, you might want to consider a more robust model with a brighter laser and more reliable mounting options. The suction cups and the precision of the bubble vials are areas that could use improvement.

In conclusion, the Ryobi Multi Surface Laser Level is a solid choice for everyday household tasks. Its versatility and ease of use outweigh its minor drawbacks, making it a valuable tool for anyone looking to tackle DIY projects with greater accuracy and efficiency.