Bosch GPL5 Review | Professional 5 Point Laser Level

Hello ninjas, pros and DIYers … Today I want to share with you a few things about the Bosch professional GPL 5, which is a 5 points laser level. I’ve put together this Bosch GPL5 review article to help you out a bit in case you’re looking to upgrade your laser leveling tool.

From what I know by working in the construction industry, when someone is looking to change, to update or simply buy a new self leveling laser level … one of the most important questions (especially for pros) is this …

Is this a durable tool? Is this Bosch laser level going to last me a few good years?

Well, I guess I don’t really need to tell this, but Bosch has been around for some time now and they do make some badass tools.

Bosch, is a huge household and commercial name specializing in making reliable laser levels, powerful and robust tools to the highest German standards.

So, don’t worry, in terms of durability, Bosch GPL 5 IS a good laser leveling tool to look at.

Bosch GPL 5 Point Laser Level

How To Use A 5 Point Laser Level?

It's extremely easy.

The point laser level is used primarily to transfer points from the floor to the ceiling, as well for transferring heights.

ceiling works installing spotlights using a laser level for electricians

A point or dot laser leveling tool is great for electricians and it's probably the best laser level for plumbing as well. An electrician could use it to layout ceiling lights. Like downlights for example.

Here's a quick how-to install downlights guide with the help of  5 point laser level:

How-to install downlights in 6 steps

  • Step 1 - Align your spotlights or do your measurements on the floor for the position of where your lights will be installed
  • Step 2 - Mark the reference points on the floor
  • Step 3 - Now, switch on your 5 point laser level and place it on top of the first point that you've marked on the floor
  • Step 4 - The laser level will project a perpendicular beam and it will show you on the ceiling the same point that you marked on the floor. Mark that point on the ceiling with your pencil
  • Step 5 - Start drilling your holes with the right drill accessory
  • Step 6 - Repeat the process for the other spotlights that you want to install

5 Point Laser Level Comparison Table - Bosch VS Stabila VS PLS

ImageLaser Level BrandDetailsPrice
★ TOP CHOICE! ★ 1. Bosch GPL 5
  • Accuracy: ±1/8" @ 50Ft
  • Power: 3 AA Battery
  • Beam Color: Red
See More On Amazon
★ Professional ★ 2. Stabila LA-5P
  • Accuracy:±3/16" @ 30Ft
  • Power: 3 AA Battery
  • Beam Color: Red
See More On Amazon
★ Great Price ★3.PLS Laser PLS-60541
  • Accuracy: ±1/8" @ 100Ft
  • Power: 3 AA Battery
  • Beam Color: Red
See More On Amazon

Things You Want To Know About The Bosch GPL 5

The GPL5 is a self-leveling laser projecting 5 horizontal and plumb points. It is able to self-level from up to 3 degrees and is visible up to 30 meters. The points cover the forward, up, down, left and right make the transfer of right-angles exceptionally easy and precise.

Made from a high quality plastic the GPL 5 is also dust and splash resistant making it robust and durable. The GPL 5 is extremely compact with a weight of just 250g and its dimensions are 4 x 8 x 10.4 cm. That’s pocket-sized! It runs on 3AA batteries and has a continuous use life of 24 hours.

This Laser has a huge variety of fixing possibilities due to its universal multi-functional mount. The warranty is also a full 2 year Bosch warranty with the option to extend to 3 years. The protective back also keeps the laser level safe during storage.

Bosch GPL5 Manual

I know that many people are looking sometimes for more in-depth information about a tool. If you are one of those guys that want to know everything about his tool :) click here to download the Bosch GPL5 manual from Bosch website.

What I Like & Don't Like About The Bosch GPL 5 Professional Laser Level

PROS
  • This laser level is pocket-sized for your convenience. This means it's easy to transport, handle and store in your toolbox.
  • It has the Smart pendulum level system which enables the tool to self-level and will tell you when is out of level. It locks into position when the laser level is not being used.
  • One of the most robust laser levels out there so it can be used on heavy-duty projects easily.
  • It resistant to water so it can be used when working outside.
  • 5 point laser level which project points up and down front and sides for all the plumbing, leveling and the alignments tasks that you might have. As well as 90 degrees tasks.
  • You can mount this tool on almost anything having a mount with magnets, strap or threaded mounts (5/8 inch-11, 1/4 inch -20)
CONS
  • Being a RED beam laser level it will be not very good for outside jobs, especially if it's sunny.

Specs And Features Table Of The Bosch GPL 5 Point Laser Level

Item DimensionsPower SourceWeightSpecial features
12.6 x 11.4 x 5 inches
or
32 x 29 x 13cm
3 AA batteries required
(included)
3.7 pounds
or
1.4 Kg
-Dust and splash protection
-Project 5 points
WarrantyAccuracyVisibility
Self leveling

Three-years

Best In Class Warranty

±1/4-inch up to 100-ft
or
±6mm up to 30 m
Good for inside
Not recommended
for outside use
-Longitudinal axis Up to ± 5°
-Lateral axis Up to ± 3°

Conclusion

Overall, if you’re looking for a compact, powerful and multifunctional plumb laser, with more points than the traditional point laser level, like the Bosch GPL3, then this is the one for you.

I don't recommend the GPL 5 for DIYers.

And the reason is that it will be not very useful for other jobs. If you are a DIYer, you don't want to have a lot of different tools for different specific jobs ...

... ideally, you want one that will serve you for many other tasks around the house when you do home improvement and DIY.

A better laser level for a ninja DIYer would one that project dots and cross-line as well like the DeWalt DW089K for example, or the Bosch GCL25 (check out what people are saying about this tool on Amazon)

Was this Bosch GPL 5 review article helpful?

Please let me know in the comments what would you add to this review or what would you like me to cover?

I can update it at any time.

In the meantime...

... Stay Safe Ninjas And Happy DIYing :)

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