Spinning Laser vs. Crosshair Laser: Can I Use a Spinning Laser Indoors?
Visibility
When it comes to visibility, crosshair lasers have the upper hand. They use a prism to deflect the laser light vertically, horizontally, or both, creating a bright and steady beam that is incredibly easy to see.
On the other hand, rotary lasers emit a laser beam through a single point diode. While they offer greater range (often over 10 times the range of crosshair lasers), the fact that they rotate means that the laser is only in your target area for part of the time.
From a visibility standpoint, the crosshair laser appears brighter due to its steady state. Although spinning the laser can come close to a steady state by increasing the spin rate, the brightness diminishes as the rotation speed changes. Some rotation lasers, like our DeWalt model, allow you to confine the beam to specific angles (such as 15, 45, or 90 degrees), ensuring that the beam covers more of your work area for a larger percentage of the time.
Range
It’s true that spinning lasers have a much greater range because the beam doesn’t spread out. For instance, our DeWalt 20V Max Green Tough Laser can work up to 2000 feet, while our DeWalt 12V Max Green Cross Line Laser has a range of 160 feet.
However, we must consider the BVR (beyond visible range) of spinning lasers. The beam gradually weakens closer to its maximum range, but it can still be used in conjunction with a receiver to handle tasks that are not visible to the naked eye.
So, while the crosshair laser offers better visibility, the spinning laser outperforms it in terms of overall range. Nevertheless, when it comes to mounting cabinets or working with barely visible wires, the longer visible line provided by crosshair lasers is more suitable for these applications.
Rotation and Crosshair Laser Precision
Our DeWalt crosshair lasers are accurate to 1/8 inch, while our rotary lasers have an accuracy of 1/16 inch. However, this is not the entire story. The accuracy of the crosshair laser is based on a 33-foot range, while the accuracy of the rotation laser is based on a 100-foot range. This means that at 100 feet, the crosshair laser has an error level of 3/8 inch, whereas the rotation laser maintains an error level of only 1/8 inch. This represents a 200% increase in error compared to the rotating model.
While rotating lasers have their advantages in terms of precision, you can minimize installation errors with a crosshair laser by keeping it as close as possible to your work area. Most installations can tolerate a 1/8 inch error over a 33-foot span.
Price
There is a significant price gap between rotary lasers and crosshair lasers, especially if you opt for the green laser option. Our DeWalt DW088LG, a crosshair laser, is priced at $349. However, the DeWalt DW079LG, a rotating laser, comes at a higher price of $1299.
The Bottom Line: Rotary Laser vs. Crosshair Laser for Indoor Use – Yes or No?
There is no doubt that a crosshair laser is the better choice for most interior applications, whether you are installing cabinets, stairs, tile, or anything else that requires straight lines. The visibility is much better, especially if you opt for a green laser.
Although rotating lasers offer greater accuracy, placing the crosshair laser close to your work area ensures that you stay within 1/8 inch of error, which is acceptable for most installation tasks. If absolute perfection is required, you can always double-check with a digital level.
Crosshair lasers are also much more affordable if you haven’t already made a purchase.
However, a rotating laser can still be used for the same installations. Keep the laser as close to the work area as possible for comfortable use, and maintain a low RPM to achieve the brightest beam. Limiting the beam to a 45-degree angle will also enhance visibility. Even if the brightness is slightly reduced, increasing the RPM will bring you closer to a steady beam.
It’s worth noting that most professionals turn to indoor spinning lasers during the construction of large buildings rather than for the completion of new or remodeled structures.
Advantages of Using Rotary Lasers for Indoor Work
- Greater overall reach for open spaces
- Receiver required for BVR (Beyond Visible Range) work
- Higher accuracy (usually)
Disadvantages of Using Rotary Lasers for Indoor Work
- Expensive
- More cumbersome to move, install, and position
Advantages of Using a Crosshair Laser for Indoor Work
- Excellent visibility range
- Lower cost
- Steady-state beams are easy to see
Cons of Using a Crosshair Laser for Indoor Work
- Shorter overall range
- Lower output and accuracy compared to high-end rotary laser models