When Klein I got my hands on the Klein Tools 935 DAG digital level, I was eager to put it through its paces and see how it stacked up. In this review, I’ll provide my honest feedback on the features, performance, and durability of the Klein digital level.
Contents
Overview of the Klein Tools Digital Angle Gauge And Level
The Klein 935 DAG is packed with features for taking angle measurements and levelling objects precisely:
- LCD display – It has a backlit LCD display that rotates automatically when you change orientation from horizontal to vertical. This makes it easy to read measurements in any position.
- Angle range – The level can measure angles from 0 to 90 degrees or 0 to 180 degrees. This covers most measurement ranges that you will find on the job site.
- Magnetic base – There is a strong magnet on the base so you can attach the level securely to metal surfaces. The magnet holds very firmly.
- Grooved edges – The v-groove edges are perfect for getting level on pipes, conduit, or round surfaces.
- Zero function – With the zero function you can calibrate the level to any surface. This is extremely helpful for levelling tools like a table saw on uneven ground.
The digital level is compact and lightweight making it easy to use one-handed and carry in your tool belt. The sample Klein sent me also included a soft case and two AA batteries.
Using the Digital Level on the Job Site
To test the Klein digital level, I used it for various projects around my home workshop and on client job sites:
- Levelling shelves and pictures
- Measuring angles on trim and moulding
- Calibrating table saws and miter saws
- Checking level on handrails and stairs
- Measuring angles on conduit runs
Here were some of my key findings from using the level extensively:
Accuracy
First and foremost, the Klein level provided consistently accurate measurements in my testing. To evaluate the accuracy, I compared it against a top brand spirit level on a known flat surface:
| Level | Measurement |
|---|---|
| Top Brand | Level |
| Klein 935 DAG | 0.02 degrees off level |
The Klein was only 0.02 degrees off from the spirit level, which is extremely precise in my book. Throughout my use, I found the angle measurements to be highly accurate for carpentry, electrical, and plumbing tasks.
Easy to Read Display
The LCD display on the Klein level is crisp and very easy to read. I like that the display rotates when you change orientation, making for easy viewing all the time. Even in dim workshop lighting, the backlight illumination made the display visible. Outside on sunny days, the contrasting display also made readings clear.
The readout showing two angled lines pivoting at the measured angle provides a helpful visual indicator. This gives you an intuitive sense of whether you are off-level and which direction you need to adjust.
Handy Features
There are a few features built into the digital level that proved handy for my work:
- Zero function – Being able to calibrate the level to any surface with the zero button was extremely useful. For example, when using a miter saw outside on uneven ground, I could zero the level on the saw table first, then precisely set the blade angle I needed relative to the table.
- Grooved edges – The V grooves on the edges fit nicely on 1/2″ and 3/4″ pipes and conduit. This allowed me to dial in the precise angle I needed when bending connections.
- Magnet – The strong magnet gives you hands-free operation. I found the magnet perfect for attaching to table saws, levels, metal studs, or any other metal surface firmly.
While the level doesn’t have Bluetooth connectivity or the ability to save measurements like some models, it provides all the key features I need for daily use.
Build Quality
In evaluating any tool, durability and longevity are top concerns for me. Especially with a level that constantly gets banged around, structural integrity matters.
Here is an assessment of the build quality on the Klein digital level:
- Housing – The plastic housing feels thick and sturdy. I don’t have any worries about it cracking or breaking under normal job site conditions as it seems to have enough protection.
- Magnet – The rare earth magnet is strong and well-seated in the housing. It shouldn’t be falling out anytime soon.
- Electronics – The circuit boards and connections are neatly integrated in the housing. Nothing jiggles loose inside.
- Buttons – The rubberized buttons have a satisfying click when pressed. The zero button sits recessed to prevent accidental activation.
My only complaint with the build quality is the thin plastic film covering the LCD display. It’s so thin that I worry the edge of a pipe or rough handle could put a scratch across the display. I would have preferred a thicker acrylic or polycarbonate lens to protect the screen better.
Pros
To summarize, here are the standout pros I found using the Klein digital level:
- Extremely accurate angle measurements
- Easy to read LCD display with backlight
- Helpful zero calibration function
- Grooved edges perfect for pipes and conduit
- Sturdy magnetic base for hands-free use
- Durable housing and overall construction
- Compact size and lightweight
Cons
The Klein Electronic level is a great product overall, but I did note a few downsides:
- Thin plastic film covering display instead of a robust lens
- Lacks Bluetooth connectivity or data storage
- Only measures in degree scale, not percent or rise/run
While minor quibbles, these cons could be improved in a future model.
Here is a video by WorkshopAddict reviewing the Klein Tools DAG 935 with programmable angles.
Conclusion
After thoroughly testing the Klein 935 DAG digital level, I can confidently recommend it for electrical, plumbing, framing, and general construction applications. The level provides extremely precise angle measurements in an easy-to-use package.
This device is just better than any bubble level, it has never been easier to check relative angles. Convenient features like the zero function, grooved edges, magnetic base, and rotating display make the level versatile for many trade skills.
While I wish the screen was better protected, the overall durability is excellent. For anyone looking to ditch the spirit level for an advanced digital option, the Klein 935 DAG is an accurate, high-performing choice.
Frequently Asked Questions:
A: In my testing, it was accurate to 0.02 degrees compared to a spirit level. It provides reliable, precise angle measurements for carpentry, electrical, plumbing, and other applications.
A: No, the level can give angle measurements even if it is not perfectly flat on the surface. The readings are accurate as long as the level itself is not tilted sideways or at an angle.
A: Yes, the display automatically rotates so you can use the level vertically or horizontally. The magnet also keeps it fixed in place when used vertically.
A: Klein rates the 935 DAG for use in temperatures from 14°F to 122°F. The LCD screen may become sluggish in very cold temperatures.
A: With intermittent use, the battery should last around 100 hours. For consistent daily use, plan on replacing the AA batteries every 1-2 months. An indicator appears when the battery gets low.
