What Is a Digital Angle Meter? Types and Selection Criteria
A digital angle meter is an electronic measuring instrument that shows the slope of a surface relative to horizontal, or the angle between two surfaces, in degrees.
A digital angle meter (digital inclinometer) is an electronic measuring instrument that shows the slope of a surface relative to horizontal, or the angle between two surfaces, in degrees on its display. It is used for setting saws and benches, bending pipes and trunking, setting up machines, mounting panels and rails, and checking slopes inside buildings. Unlike a spirit level, it reads the angle as a number and relative to a reference you set.
Types
| Model | Distinguishing feature |
|---|---|
| Unit LM320D | Magnetic base on two faces (bottom and back) |
| Unit LM320E | Magnetic base on two faces and a 2-line laser indicator |
| Unit LM320F | Magnetic base on four faces (bottom, back, left, right) and a 3-line laser |
The product data of all three gives a 4 × 90° measuring range, ±0.2° accuracy, an aluminium alloy and ABS housing and a weight of about 180 g.
Selection criteria
- Accuracy: ±0.2° corresponds to about 3.5 mm of deviation over 1 m. More precise work needs an instrument with higher accuracy.
- Number of magnetic faces: On metal surfaces such as saw blades, machine housings and steel profiles, the instrument sticks without being held. For work where it must also stick sideways, the four-face LM320F is easier to use.
- Laser line: The laser models (LM320E, LM320F) transfer the angle not only on the surface the instrument sits on but also to a distant point with the beam, which helps alignment during installation.
- Reference setting: For relative measurement the instrument is zeroed on one surface and the next angle is read against it; for absolute slope it is used against the horizontal reference. Check the setting method in the user manual.
Common mistakes
- Placing it on a dirty or burred surface: The instrument does not sit flat and the angle shifts.
- Forgetting the relative zero: If the reference zeroed on a previous job is not cleared, the angle read is wrong.
- Looking into the laser beam: On laser models, never point the beam at the eyes.
Angle meters at Welibaba
The Angle Measuring Instruments category has 3 active products from Unit: LM320D, LM320E and LM320F, sold on quotation. For distance and line lasers, see the laser measuring devices guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a digital angle meter and a spirit level?
A spirit level shows whether a surface is horizontal or vertical. A digital angle meter gives the slope in degrees and makes it easier to set a required angle.
What does 4 × 90° mean?
It means the instrument measures 0–90° in four quadrants, so it can read angles all the way round.
Should I choose a laser or a non-laser model?
If you only need the angle of the surface the instrument sits on, the non-laser LM320D is enough. If you need to carry the angle to a distant point or align a line, choose the laser LM320E or LM320F.