Best Clinometers of 2025

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Clinometers are essential tools for outdoor enthusiasts who want to measure angles and slopes accurately. These devices are commonly used in hiking, mountaineering, skiing, and other outdoor activities where precise measurements are required. Clinometers come in various designs, including handheld models and those that can be attached to a tripod. They are typically made of durable materials that can withstand harsh outdoor conditions. With a clinometer, hikers and climbers can determine the steepness of a slope, which is crucial for planning a safe and successful ascent or descent.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks
Top 10 Clinometers
Sun Company Lev-o-gage Heel-Angle Sailing Clinometer
The Lev-o-gage Heel-Angle Sailing Clinometer by Sun Company is a marine model that easily mounts on the bulkhead of a boat with 3M VHB tape. It has an ideal tilt reading that monitors tilt from -45 to 45 degrees, and a brass ball riding in special damping fluid for smooth, accurate readings. The easy-to-read display has engraved and hand painted numbers and a bright Saturn yellow tube assembly with a brass ball instead of a bubble. The tube assembly is made of a rugged copolymer "flex tube" for durability, and the housing is constructed of durable ABS plastic. Made in the USA from high-quality materials.
Marine Clinometer
This clinometer is perfect for outdoor and indoor use as it is crafted from the highest quality material. Made in China, it is durable and reliable for measuring angles of slope or inclination. It is a useful tool for sailors, builders, and engineers to determine the angle of deviation from the vertical or horizontal plane.
SUUNTO PM-5 Cinometer: Professional Inclination Tool
The SUUNTO PM-5 Cinometer is a reliable tool for measuring heights and slopes accurately. Its scales for slope in degrees and %, and optical reading of the card, provide higher accuracy. Encased in a durable aluminum housing, it resists water, impact, and corrosion. Additionally, it doesn't require batteries. Suunto mechanical compasses are ideal for navigating the great outdoors, including alpine skiing, hiking, trekking, mountain biking, trail running, and more. Suunto has over 80 years of high-quality heritage craftsmanship and pioneering innovation, making their products trustworthy and durable.
SUUNTO PM-5 Clinometer
The SUUNTO Clinometer PM-5 is an essential tool for accurately measuring heights, slopes, and vertical angles. With its optical reading feature, you can achieve precise measurements, which is especially useful for outdoor activities like hiking or skiing. The durable aluminum housing ensures that it withstands harsh conditions, making it reliable in any environment. Plus, because it doesn’t require batteries, you can focus on your adventure without worrying about power sources. Its thoughtful design and advanced engineering make it easy to use, allowing you to navigate confidently in the great outdoors.
Sun Company Lev-o-Gage II - Marine Clinometer
The Sun Company Lev-o-Gage II is a marine clinometer that monitors tilt from -10 to 10 degrees with an easy-to-read display. The brass ball rides in special damping fluid for smooth, accurate readings. The tube assembly is made out of a rugged copolymer "flex tube" for ultimate durability and the housing is constructed of durable ABS plastic. It mounts with 3M VHB tape, and its convenient size allows mounting on almost any surface. Made in the USA with durable, high-quality materials, it is an ideal fore and aft trim aid for boats.
Sun Company Lev-o-gage Sr. Clinometer
The Sun Company Clinometer is designed to help you monitor the tilt of your boat accurately, measuring angles from -50 to 50 degrees. Its brass ball, floating in special damping fluid, ensures smooth and precise readings, which is essential for maintaining your vessel's stability. The large display features bright yellow colors and easy-to-read engraved numbers, making it user-friendly even in challenging conditions. Built with a shatterproof design, this inclinometer is durable and can withstand the rigors of marine environments. Plus, it includes 3M VHB tape for simple mounting, allowing you to set it up quickly and efficiently.
Silva Clinometer
The Silva Clinometer is a versatile outdoor recreation product that helps you measure angles with ease. With its compact size and lightweight design, it is easy to carry and use on your outdoor adventures. The clinometer comes in a package with dimensions of 4" L X 1.5" W X 6.5" H and weighs only 0.231 pounds, making it convenient to pack and transport. Whether you're hiking, camping, or doing fieldwork, this clinometer is a reliable tool to have. Made in China, it offers accurate measurements and is perfect for determining slopes, heights, and angles. With the Silva Clinometer, you can navigate your surroundings with confidence and precision.
AOKWIT Professional Aluminum Clinometer
The AOKWIT Clinometer is designed for accurate and quick measurements, making it perfect for outdoor enthusiasts like hikers and skiers. With its high-definition azimuth disc and clear dials, you can easily measure height and slope angles. This lightweight and compact tool fits comfortably in your hand and can be stored easily, thanks to its handy rope loop. Plus, it’s built to withstand harsh weather conditions, being both waterproof and durable. This means you can rely on it for consistent performance, no matter where your adventures take you.
Slope Meter by Tbest
The Tbest Clinometer is designed to enhance your driving experience with its high-quality construction and advanced features. Made from durable ABS material, this inclinometer allows you to adjust the viewing angle for maximum convenience. You can rely on its precise sensitivity to measure slopes accurately, which is essential for safe navigation on both uphill and downhill terrains. Its ergonomic design helps you understand road conditions better, increasing your traffic safety. Additionally, the adjustable stand makes installation easy, ensuring that you can place it wherever you need for optimal balance and usability.
Garosa Clinometer -10° to 10°
The Garosa Clinometer is designed for precision and ease of use. Made from high-quality ABS material, it offers durability against impacts and scratches, ensuring it stands up to regular use. The display features clear markings, making it straightforward for you to read measurements quickly. Additionally, the clear labeling enhances functionality, allowing for convenient readings in various settings. Whether you are measuring slopes or angles, this clinometer provides reliable results with a user-friendly design.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What are clinometers used for?
Clinometers are used to measure the angle of elevation or the angle from the ground in a right-angled triangle. They are commonly used to measure the height of tall objects such as flagpoles, buildings, and trees.
2. How do sailors use clinometers?
Sailors use clinometers, also known as inclinometers, to measure the angle at which a vessel slants on still water and in choppy water. This helps them understand the vessel's tilt and maintain stability while at sea.
3. What is the difference between a theodolite and a clinometer?
Theodolites can measure angles in both the horizontal and vertical planes, while clinometers specifically measure vertical angles. Inclinometers are also used in aircraft to determine the aircraft's position relative to the horizon.
4. What is a clinometer most commonly used for measuring?
A clinometer, or inclinometer, is commonly used for measuring angles of slope, elevation, or depression of an object with respect to gravity's direction.
5. What are the different types of clinometers?
There are various types of clinometers, including angular clinometers, horizontal clinometers, protractor spirit inclinometers, protractor square inclinometers, and mechanical spirit levels. Each type has its specific uses and applications.
6. What are the disadvantages of a clinometer?
One disadvantage of portable inclinometers is that they do not provide instant information. In-place inclinometers need to be installed to record instant information. Additionally, the accuracy of clinometers may vary depending on the user's experience and the specific model being used.
7. How accurate is a clinometer?
Experienced users of handheld compass-clinometers can achieve measurement accuracy within 1° on compass bearings and 2° on dip measurements. However, the accuracy may vary depending on the user's skills and the specific model being used.
During our clinometer research, we found 24 clinometer products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 7,328 customer reviews through our big data system to write the clinometers list. We found that most customers choose clinometers with an average price of $23.23.
The clinometers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of clinometers, including Sun Company, Silva, SUUNTO, AOKWIT, Tbest. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 317 consumers with an average rating of 4.8.

Jason Kiser is an editor who lives in California, he previously worked in a travel agency for ten years, which enabled him to travel a number of interesting countries and experience several different cultures along the way. His range of job and travel experiences grant him expertise in hiking, camping, outdoors and fitness.