Best Torpedo Levels of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 8, 2025

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Torpedo levels are an essential tool for anyone who needs precise and accurate leveling. These levels are small and compact, making them easy to carry around in a toolbox or pocket. They are named after their torpedo-like shape, which allows them to fit easily into tight spaces. Torpedo levels typically have three vials, one for vertical leveling, one for horizontal leveling, and one for angled leveling. They are used in a variety of industries, including construction, woodworking, and metalworking. With their durability and accuracy, torpedo levels are a must-have for any handyman or professional tradesperson.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Empire Level EM81.9G 9 Inch Magnetic Torpedo Level Cover #TOP 1
Empire Level EM81.9G 9 Inch Magnetic Torpedo Level
ftb score rating icon 9.9
WORKPRO 12 Inch Torpedo Level Cover #TOP 2
WORKPRO 12 Inch Torpedo Level
ftb score rating icon 9.8
DURATECH 3-Piece Level Tool Set Cover #TOP 3
DURATECH 3-Piece Level Tool Set
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Torpedo Levels

#TOP 1

Empire Level EM81.9G 9 Inch Magnetic Torpedo Level

Empire
EM81.9
Silver/White/Blue
Empire Level EM81.9G 9 Inch Magnetic Torpedo Level Cover
Empire Level EM81.9G 9 Inch Magnetic Torpedo Level w/Overhead Viewing Slot (Made in USA), Silver/White/Blue

The Empire Level EM81.9G 9 Inch Magnetic Torpedo Level is a great tool for any job. It features an overhead viewing slot, a magnetic edge, a pipe groove, and a high contrast vial surrounding for easy reading. It reads plumb, level, and 45 degrees, making it a versatile tool. Customers love the blue liquid and the magnet, but some have noted that the accuracy can be off and the liquid can be hard to see.

What We Like
Overhead viewing slot
Magnetic edge
Pipe groove
High contrast vial surrounding
Reads plumb, level, and 45 degrees

WORKPRO 12 Inch Torpedo Level

W062071AE
12 Inch
WORKPRO 12 Inch Torpedo Level Cover
WORKPRO 12 Inch Torpedo Level, Magnetic Small Leveler Tool, Plumbing Level with Pitch Vial, Aluminum Reinforced, 4 Bubbles, V-Groove for Conduit Bending

WORKPRO Torpedo Level is a small but powerful leveler tool designed for heavy use. Its shock-absorbing rubber end caps and durable aluminum body construction make it perfect for any job site. The leveler tool comes with 3 bubble vials and provides maximum accuracy of 0.0005-inch/ft. (0.5mm/M), making it perfect for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. The V-groove bottom fits the contour of curved workpieces, and the milled bottom increases friction. The hanging holes provide easy reach and storage. The mirrored vertical bubble offers a verti.site view and enables easy readability from multiple angles, while the magnified center block vial provides a high visibility magnification of the bubble for better reading.

What We Like
Durable
Accurate
Versatile
#TOP 3

DURATECH 3-Piece Level Tool Set

001087
DURATECH 3-Piece Level Tool Set Cover
DURATECH 3-Piece Level Tool Set, Magnetic Torpedo Level Included 2.5", 6.25", 8" Level with 0°/30°/45°/90° Bubbles, V-Groove, Large Viewing Window, Aluminium Alloy Construction, SAE and Metric Scale

The DURATECH Level Tool Set includes three levels designed for accuracy and ease of use. The high-visibility bubbles make it simple for you to read measurements from multiple angles, ensuring you get precise results every time. Its durable aluminum alloy construction provides strength for everyday tasks, while the powerful rare-earth magnets keep the tools securely in place during use. With both SAE and metric scales, this set helps you tackle a variety of projects with confidence and accuracy, making it ideal for home improvement and carpentry work.

What We Like
High-visibility bubbles
Durable aluminum construction
Powerful rare-earth magnets
Accurate SAE and metric scales

Swanson Tool Co TLL049M Savage Lightning Aluminum Torpedo Magnetic Illuminated Levels

TLL049M
Orange Aluminum
Swanson Tool Co TLL049M Savage Lightning Aluminum Torpedo Magnetic Illuminated Levels Cover
Swanson Tool Co TLL049M Savage Lightning Aluminum Torpedo Magnetic Illuminated Levels, 9", 3 Vials

Swanson Lightning Torpedo Level by Swanson Tool Co. features 4 strong neodymium magnets that provide a secure grip, a vial lighted system for enhanced visibility, solid billet construction making it 3 times stronger, and brightview vial surrounds for easy reading. The magnets help you attach the level to metal surfaces, the lighted system aids in working in low-light conditions, the solid billet ensures durability, and the brightview vials make reading measurements effortless.

What We Like
Neodymium Magnets
Vial Lighted System
Solid Billet Construction

Klein Tools 935RB Level

935RB
Orange
Klein Tools 935RB Level Cover
Klein Tools 935RB Torpedo Level, 8-Inch Billet Magnetic Level, 0/30/45/90 Degree Vials, V-Groove, Tapered Nose, High-Visibility Vial and Body

The Klein Tools 935RB Level is an 8-inch torpedo level with a rare earth magnet and tapered nose, designed for high-visibility. It features a patented magnet track to prevent powerful rare-earth magnets from falling out, and large, easy-to-read high-visibility vials at 4 angles: level, 90, 45, and 30 degrees. The level is made from durable aluminum and the V-Groove fits the contour of conduit and pipe. Customers praise its strong magnets and accuracy, though some note the plastic battery cover may break with time.

What We Like
Patented magnet track prevents powerful rare-earth magnets from falling out
Large, easy-to-read high-visibility vials at 4 angles
High-visibility orange body is easy to see on conduit and at the jobsite

IRWIN 150 Magnetic Torpedo Level

1794155
Blue
9-inch
IRWIN 150 Magnetic Torpedo Level Cover
Irwin Tools 1794155 150 Magnetic Torpedo Level, 9-Inch, Blue

The IRWIN Tools 150 Magnetic Torpedo Level is a heavy-duty aluminum frame with a composite body for durability. It features a V-groove edge for leveling pipe, making the job easier and quicker. The rare earth magnets are 5 times stronger than strip magnets and allow for easy, hands-free steel construction work. Customers have praised the level for its accuracy and lightweight design, but have noted that the magnet is on the weaker side.

What We Like
Heavy duty aluminum frame with composite body
V-groove edge for leveling pipe
Rare earth magnets are 5 times stronger than strip magnets
#TOP 7

Klein Tools 935AB4V Magnetic Torpedo Level

935AB4V
Original Version
Klein Tools 935AB4V Magnetic Torpedo Level Cover
Klein Tools 935AB4V Level, 6-Inch Magnetic Torpedo and Conduit Level with 0/30/45/90 Degree Vials, V-Groove and Magnet Track, High Visibility Orange

The Klein Tools 935AB4V Magnetic Torpedo Level is an essential tool for professional-grade bendings. The level features a patented magnet track that prevents powerful Rare-Earth magnets from falling out, making it easy to secure the level to any metal surface. The thumb screw attaches level to conduit to measure angles while bending, and the large top-view vial windows enable easy readability from multiple angles. The V-Groove fits the contour of conduit and pipe, and the high-visibility orange professional-grade billet aluminum body is easy to see on conduit and at the job site. With Klein Tools' expertise, this product is manufactured with high-quality materials, superior workmanship, and is made in America.

What We Like
Patented magnet track prevents magnets from falling out.
Thumb screw attaches level to conduit to measure angles while bending.
Large top-view vial windows enable easy readability from multiple angles.
V-Groove fits the contour of conduit and pipe.
High-visibility orange professional-grade billet aluminum body is easy to see on conduit and at the job site.
#TOP 8

Swanson Tool Co TL041M Magnetic Torpedo Level

TL041M
Orange
6" (inches)
Swanson Tool Co TL041M Magnetic Torpedo Level Cover
Swanson Tool Co TL041M 6 Inch Savage Magnetic Billet Torpedo Level with Brass Pipe Clamp, 6 Inches and 15 Centimeters Orange

The Swanson Magnetic Torpedo Level is designed to provide users with exceptional accuracy and convenience. With its four powerful rare earth magnets, you can securely attach the level to metal surfaces, ensuring it stays in place while you work. The durable anodized aluminum frame and acrylic vials are built to withstand tough conditions, making it a reliable tool for any job. Featuring multiple vials set at various angles, this level allows for easy readings at 0º, 30º, 45º, and 90º. Additionally, the patented Brightview Vial Surrounds enhance visibility, ensuring you can check your measurements even in challenging lighting.

What We Like
Strong magnet grip
Durable aluminum frame
Multiple angle vials
Enhanced visibility
#TOP 9

CRAFTSMAN 9" Magnetic Torpedo Level

CMHT43191
CRAFTSMAN 9" Magnetic Torpedo Level Cover
CRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level, Magnetic, 9 inch (CMHT43191)

The CRAFTSMAN 9" Magnetic Torpedo Level is a great tool for small jobs. Made from aluminum, it features a manual operation mode and two magnetic strips for easy use. It is lightweight and accurate, making it perfect for checking levels on the go. Customers have praised its durability and size, making it a great addition to any toolbox.

What We Like
Compact and versatile
Great accuracy
Affordable price

CRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level CMHT82390

CMHT82390
Red and Black
9-Inch
CRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level CMHT82390 Cover
CRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level, 9 Inch, With Shock Absorbing End Caps (CMHT82390)

The CRAFTSMAN Torpedo Level CMHT82390 is a high-precision level tool with block vials that provide maximum accuracy of 0.0005-inch/ ft (0.5mm/M). The shock-absorbing end caps hold up to heavy use, ensuring the level tool's durability. The over-molded rubber end caps prevent marring, making it a non-marring leveling and shock-resistant tool. The torpedo level's compact size makes it easy to carry around and use in tight spaces. The level tool's accuracy, durability, and non-marring features make it an ideal tool for professional craftsmen and DIYers.

What We Like
High-precision
Durable
Non-marring
Buying Guide Image

How to Choose the Best Torpedo Levels

Introduction

A torpedo level, also known as a spirit level, is a valuable tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional. Whether you are hanging a painting or installing a bookshelf, a torpedo level is a must-have for ensuring accurate results. But with so many models on the market, how do you choose the right one? In this article, we’ll help you figure out which torpedo level is best for your needs.

Considerations

When selecting a torpedo level, you should consider a few key features. First, look at the length of the level. It should be long enough to span the length of the surface you plan to use it on. If you are working with large objects, you should look for a longer level.

You should also consider the accuracy of the level. The most accurate models are typically vials filled with a liquid, such as alcohol or kerosene. These models are usually more expensive than plastic bubble levels, but they are more accurate and longer lasting.

Finally, consider the construction of the level. The body should be made of durable materials, such as aluminum or stainless steel, and should have a non-slip grip so that it stays put while you work.

Types

There are several types of torpedo levels on the market. The most common type is the bubble level, which is a tube filled with a liquid and a bubble inside. As you rotate the level, the bubble moves up or down, indicating whether the surface is level. Bubble levels are usually more affordable than vial levels, but they are less accurate and less durable.

Vial levels are the most accurate type of torpedo level. These models use a liquid, such as kerosene or alcohol, and a glass tube filled with air. As you rotate the level, the air in the vial bubble moves up or down, indicating whether the surface is level. Vial levels are typically more expensive than bubble levels, but they are more accurate and longer lasting.

Magnetic Levels

If you work with metal surfaces, you may want to consider a magnetic torpedo level. These models have magnets in the body that allow them to attach to metal surfaces. This makes them ideal for working on metal pipes, beams, and other surfaces. Magnetic torpedo levels are usually more expensive than bubble and vial levels, but they are extremely convenient.

Digital Levels

Digital levels are the newest type of torpedo level on the market. These models use a digital display to display the reading in degrees or percentages. This makes them ideal for precise measurements. Digital torpedo levels are usually more expensive than bubble, vial, and magnetic models, but they are the most accurate and provide the most features.

Conclusion

Choosing the right torpedo level depends on your needs and budget. If you are looking for accuracy and durability, you should consider a vial level. If you work with metal surfaces, you may want to consider a magnetic level. Finally, if you need extreme accuracy and lots of features, you should look for a digital level. No matter which model you choose, make sure to select one with a long enough body to span the length of the surface you plan to use it on.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a torpedo level used for?

A torpedo level is a versatile tool used for various purposes. It is commonly used for leveling pictures, determining the slope of pipes, and leveling over short distances. It is compact and fits nicely in a tool belt or junk drawer, making it a convenient tool to have.

2. What is the difference between a regular level and a torpedo level?

The main difference between a regular level and a torpedo level is their size and versatility. A torpedo level is smaller and more compact, making it suitable for use in tight quarters and cramped spaces where longer levels cannot fit. It is also designed to fit comfortably into a pants pocket, adding to its convenience and portability.

Editor's Notes

During our torpedo level research, we found 24 torpedo level products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 110,870 customer reviews through our big data system to write the torpedo levels list. We found that most customers choose torpedo levels with an average price of $18.36.

The torpedo levels are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of torpedo levels, including Empire, WORKPRO, DURATECH, Swanson Tool Co., Inc, Klein Tools. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.