Let’s be honest, when you search for a Laser Distance Measurer (LDM), you can find hundreds to pick from. Anything from a no-name $5 tool to a brand name tool that cost well above $500. So which is the best one to go with? Who makes one that is right for you? Today we are going to cover a higher end model from a well-known company to help you make an informed decision. Let’s jump into the Bosch GLM 50 C Review.
Bosch GLM 50 C Review Overview
When it comes to measuring tools, it’s true you have a vast array of products and power tool manufacturers to choose from. However, for me, I think there is really only one option and that is Bosch.
Bosch is known for a wide range of power tools such as concrete tools, cordless tools, oscillating tools and more. But one major tool they are well known for across the industry is their LDM’s.
The Bosch LDM are known for their accuracy, their simplicity of using them, their wide range of options and their job site toughness. This is the reason that more professional tradesman has relied on them over the years.
Bosch GLM 50 C Review Features
The Bosch GLM 50 C is their mid-range LDM, well at least that is my take on it. Anyone looking for an LDM that does all the major applications of an LDM and has Bluetooth, this is the LDM to own. This LDM has a range of up to 165′.
The Bosch GLM 50 C can take a wide range of measurements including real-time length, length, area, volume and indirect. There is also a digital level and more. The built-in inclinometer allows for advanced features like angles, min/max, stake out and double indirect.
Bosch uses a backlit color screen that will auto rotate base on how you are using the LDM.
The keypad is simple to operate and will allow you to control a multitude of functions such as on/off, measuring, menu, Bluetooth connectivity and the location of measurement.
The tool has a soft grip all around the unit for protection and to improve grip.
On the back of the tool, there is a place for tripod mounting.
The Bosch GLM 50 C is powered by two included AAA batteries that will take up to 10,000 measurements before they need to be changed.
When you buy this LDM, you also get a nylon carrying pouch.
Bosch GLM 50 C Review Performance
As with the other Bosch LDM we have tested over the years, the GLM 50 C is so easy to use, set up and navigate.
Even telling the unit where you want the measurement from is simple. I love being able to change it from a single button and not having to go into a complicated menu to make the adjustment.
Speaking of complicated menus. Bosch did an awesome job making this menu simple to use and easy to navigate. Seriously, you can’t make it any easier to navigate a full line menu than Bosch did for this tool.
Setting up the LDM to the phone is easy. Just download the app, turn the Bluetooth on your phone and hit the connect button on the app. Even for the people that are not tech savvy, this is very simple.
While I am not going to use the Bluetooth and app much, Bosch did an awesome job at keeping it simple and easy to navigate. For those who want full control, this app will let you do things to make your life much easier.
Bosch GLM 50 C Review Value
You can pick this up on Amazon for about $130. As I stated earlier, you can find ones for less money but it’s also less quality, less reliable and not as easy to use. I think for the reliability and accuracy, not to mention the ease of use, the Bosch GLM 50 C is a great buy. Sure you have to fork out some extra cash at the front, but in the end, it will be worth every penny.
Bosch GLM 50 C Review Final Thoughts
There are certain things in life you shouldn’t cut corners. For me, an LDM is one of them. I love the ease of use of this tool, the accuracy, and the size. While I am not much about the Bluetooth feature, there are a bunch of people who will love this option, especially because it’s so easy to use. Bosch has so many LDMs to fit your need so if this isn’t it, check out one of there others that is right for you. If you want an all-around great LDM with plenty of features but not too many where you get lost, I would suggest taking a look at the Bosch GLM 50 C.
I’ve heard a lot of complaints about extremely short battery life with the Bosch units, what has been your experience? I know they say 10,000 measurements in their advertising but in reality I’m hearing the batteries don’t last a week on the job, being used regularly. Seems to be unique to Bosch thus far, I would love to hear some feedback.
In our testing, we haven’t experienced any battery issues. I have heard some rumblings about this but we’ve used them in varying environments without any trouble. I hope this gets resolved soon though, I hate to hear anyone having issues with such a great tool!
I’m a kitchen and remodel designer and after umpteen years I bought this device. Sad to say, I was on a job measuring a whole house and it doesn’t operate for any length of time ( 15-30 minutes) before it fails. Brand new batteries start to show charge draining visibly until in this short a time it shows dead. Then if I leave it off for a while it will work again, but not for long. After resting it shows full charge again!?!? The only work-around is to constantly turn it off after measuring. I’m wondering if it’s a dud as I can’t imagine this is normal.
At this price, I expect a tool that can be used without showing drained.
Other than that I love it and can’t imagine not having one.
It sounds like a defective unit. When I was doing my house, I had mine on all the time. Never had a problem, so it has to be the unit.