Bosch is always the first name to come to mind when I think of Lasers. Sure there are other power tool companies that make them out there, and maybe Bosch wasn’t the first, but they are the best today. Bosch has released numerous versions of their Laser Levels, some I felt were geared towards the professional while some models could easily be justified by a homeowner. Their latest model offers new features we haven’t seen from Bosch Lasers before, including three separate lasers with 360-degree planes, Bluetooth capability and offers the advantage of one person setup. Does the Bosch 360 Degree 3-Plane Leveling and Alignment Laser live up to the predecessors Bosch is so well known for? Only one way to find out, let’s put it to the test and check out the Bosch 360 Laser Review.
Bosch 360 Laser Review Overview
Bosch tools are no newbie, founded in 1886 they are a German company that has had their hands in a lot of different pots. They have outlived virtually all other tool companies today and have built their reputation as a leader in reliability and innovation, especially with technology. For me, one of the first things that come to mind when I think of Bosch is their lasers. Simply put, their laser levels are the best in the business.
The Bosch 360 Laser, model number GLL3-330C comes packaged in the standard Bosch hard case and includes the laser, soft case, manuals and several accessories including the battery and charger combo, the AA battery adaptor and the laser stand.
Bosch 360 Laser Review Features
The Bosch 360 Degree 3 Plane Laser level is technology heavy and impeccably designed. Possessing CAL Guard technology which alerts audibly when there is a concern for the laser either dropping or in extreme conditions and ensures optimum calibration. It also possesses Bosch’s VisiMax™ technology which monitors power to extend battery life and keep line visibility at its peak.
The Bosch laser and its counterparts come packaged neatly in a large padded Bosch case.
The Dual power technology allows the laser to be powered using either the included 12V battery or an adaptor and 4 standard AA batteries. Bosch estimates the 12V battery to have a life expectancy of 8 hours, and the battery adaptor to have 6 hours.
The included battery adaptor allows for alternate power when a charger isn’t available and is designed to encase 4 AA batteries.
The included soft case also further prevents damage to the laser during transportation or on busy job sites.
The Laser itself is constructed of hard plastic, with steel enclosures protecting the lasers and rubber over-molding to protect against drops. As well this protects against environmental conditions having maximum operating ratings from 14 to 104 degrees and storage ratings from -4 to 158 degrees Fahrenheit.
There are three power modes controlled by the side mounted power switch. Off for when the laser is not in use, Along with a locked indicator when self-leveling isn’t desired or On with an unlocked icon for automatic self-leveling.
The Bosch laser has three separate lasers allowing ultimate customization and diverse uses.
Bosch designed this laser using a unique pendulum style self-leveling feature. Upon inspection, you will notice the actual lasers virtually float within their encasement. This smart pendulum system allows Bosch to achieve +/- 4 degrees window of adjustment.
Typical leveling period is less than 4 seconds and achieves leveling accuracy of +/- 3/32 inch at 30 feet.
The Bosch 360 Laser Level is designed to project up to 200 feet, using an upgraded Diode to allow maximum visibility. This is about a 30-foot projection, and the lines remain crisp and clear.
There is an option to add a receiver with optional pulse mode to deliver an extended range of 330 feet in diameter or increase visibility in bright lighting.
The laser itself features easy to use controls and seamless setup.
The Bluetooth connection allows a simple set up to your phone using the Bosch Leveling Remote app. This app is a simple set up and user-friendly which allows you to control the laser remotely. The app is free and provides the user options to control power, planes and adjust visibility, as well as receive level and battery alerts.
The manual mode allows the user to set the lines and manually adjust to any angle needed.
The Bosch laser easily mounts on the included BM 1 stand using a secure screw set up.
The included positioning device comes in handy to allow the laser to be attached to multiple surfaces using the clip or using screws for drywall or wood attachment. The laser also has retractable feet for surface mounting.
The BM1 Positioning device also has a knob for micro adjustments as well as a lock feature for stability.
Included was also a Laser Target Plate which is said to increase the visibility of the laser beam when conditions are unfavorable.
Bosch 360 Laser Review Performance
The Bosch 360 Laser is easy to operate, a simple touch of a button allows you to switch between planes or combinations of planes. The line is crisp, clear and bright which is key to the purpose of a laser level. The self-leveling feature on this laser blew my mind in its simplicity but effectiveness. The Bosch Laser feels solid and rugged, leaving little doubt that it would hold up to the day to day wear and tear. The Bosch App was easy to use and navigate, keeping controls simple and streamlined much like the Laser itself. The Bluetooth sync remained consistent, which is always a concern with Bluetooth connectivity.
Bosch 360 Laser Review Value
The Bosch 360 Laser retails at $399.00 at The Home Depot. They are also offering a green version, which has some decided advantages over the red but also increases the price point. For me, this Laser is the Maserati of Lasers. It is an investment, and by no means is it an entry level laser level, but its price point is competitive with other lasers on the market considering the features. I think this laser appeals more to a professional because of the price point. As a Homeowner though, I could see a variety of applications that this Laser Level could save a ton of headaches by ensuring accuracy the first time. Often times when you are investing in your home, sometimes these types of tools get overlooked but I consider them valuable insurance. From cabinet or tile installs to things like Board and Batten or fence construction, pretty much everyone can find a slew of ways to use a reliable Laser Level.
Bosch 360 Laser Review Final Thoughts
There are some tools out there that you just can’t take a shortcut with and Laser Levels are one of them. I have used Laser Levels from other brands with fairly mixed results. Factor in the hassle, cost, and time spent trying to achieve accuracy it was pretty glib. When precision matters, Bosch is the leader in Lasers and this model specifically has every feature you could ask for. Its rugged design and one person set up engineering lend itself to be a professional’s best friend. Its accuracy and user-friendly design make the Bosch 360 Laser Level a hole in one, especially for a do it yourselfer who wants to avoid costly mistakes.
