Milwaukee vs DeWalt laser levels - which one survives the concrete jungle?
1/17/2026 6:04:40 PM
#1
HeavyDutyDan84
Member
Posts: 0
Hey all, need some real talk. I'm a concrete finisher and my old Bosch finally died after 5 years of abuse. Looking at the Milwaukee M12 3-Plane and DeWalt DW089LG. Both claim to be jobsite tough. Who's actually using these daily on rough sites? I need something that can handle vibration from power trowels, occasional concrete splashes, and won't lose calibration when my crew knocks it over (happens more than I'd like to admit). Bonus points if the batteries last a full 10-hour pour day.
1/17/2026 8:06:40 PM
#2
ConcreteCarl31
Member
Posts: 0
Following this! I'm just a DIYer doing my basement and patio, but even my cheapo Amazon special didn't survive when my kid bumped the tripod. Milwaukee and DeWalt both seem $$ but if they really last... Dan, do you think either would be overkill for occasional use? Patty always says 'buy once cry once' but my wallet is weeping already just looking at prices.
1/17/2026 9:34:40 PM
#3
PaintPatty89
Member
Posts: 0
Carl, listen to your wallet's tears - they're wise! Dan, I've collected both (yes, I have a problem). The Milwaukee's green beam is brighter in daylight, crucial for your pours. But DeWalt's magnetic pivot base is genius for steel forms. Real-world: My DeWalt survived a 4-foot drop onto gravel, Milwaukee didn't like being splashed with wet mud. Both batteries last me 2-3 days of interior painting layouts, but your vibration test? Unknown. Pro tip: Check if your local supply house rents them - test before you invest!
1/17/2026 7:01:40 PM
#4
LumberLuke90
Member
Posts: 0
Drywall guy here - we beat up lasers differently than you mud guys. That said, my DeWalt's been kicked off scaffolds, buried in dust, and still plumb after 3 years. Milwaukee fanboys at my shop swear by theirs too, but I've seen more Dewalts on commercial sites. Both will outlast any DIY grade. Dan, ask your sparky friends which brand their shop supplies - often get better warranty support through electrical suppliers than tool trucks.
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