Bosch GLM165-27CG Laser Measure Reaches New Heights
Bosch is definitely no stranger to the laser measure scene and they’ve recently introduced a few newcomers to their Blaze lineup. Bosch’s 165-foot laser measures have come a long way since the GLM165-40 we reviewed back in 2018. Today, the Bosch GLM165-27CG 165-foot laser measure boasts impressive technology upgrades for Pros who want more than the basics.
Bosch GLM165-27CG Laser Measure Performance
Accuracy
The Bosch GLM165-27CG has a remarkable degree of long-range accuracy and offers measurement increments of 1/32 of an inch. Even at its max measuring distance of 165 feet, your accuracy can be as good as 1/16 of an inch. That primarily depends on the material you’re bouncing the laser off of, but it’s darn good and matches up with some of Bosch’s top laser measures.
Bosch includes an inclinometer in the design and it shows up while you’re taking measurements. When you need accuracy beyond simple estimates, it helps ensure you’re measuring as straight horizontal or vertical as possible.
A Note About Stakeout Accuracy: Units with date codes from 3/21 and earlier have a 1/2-inch stakeout accuracy deviation instead of 1/16-inch. That has been corrected in model manufactured from 4/21 on.
Green Laser
Bosch equipped this model with a vibrant green-beam Class II laser and it’s all about visibility. The major benefit is that it’s 4x brighter to your eyes than standard red beams and produces a highly visible dot on most surfaces.
Bluetooth Connectivity
This compact laser measure has integrated Bluetooth Smart 4.2 technology that can automatically transfer measurements to your smartphone or tablet using the free Bosch MeasureOn app. If you’re the type of Pro that wants to integrate more technology into your data collection, reports, and estimates, it’s an easy way to put those measurements to digital paper.
Expanded Measurement Set
The Bosch Blaze Laser Measure has a slew of features along with what you have come to expect. It obviously takes standard measurements, including real-time distance, but it also takes adds and subtracts measurements, calculates area and volume, and takes indirect measurements using its 360° inclinometer.
Standard and real-time measurements are displayed in traditional fractions for folks who prefer tape measure style readings.
A non-standard feature that’s worth noting is a built-in level function. By setting the laser measure on any of its sides, it displays an angle in degrees. Set it with the display facing up and you get a bullseye-style level.
Switching between modes is simple and they’re easy to read on the backlit color LCD screen. With the power on, simply press the function button in the center, then hit the left or right buttons until you get to the mode you want.
Haptic Feedback
One great feature we certainly didn’t have back at the beginning of our laser measure use is haptic feedback. As you make each part of your measurement, the unit vibrates to confirm it has recorded it.
Bosch GLM165-27CG Laser Measure Design
Size and Weight
As with most laser measures, this model has a light weight and compact profile, though it’s a little bulkier than more basic options. From end to end it measures just over 4.5 inches and weighs just 6.37 ounces. It’s easy to carry in a toolbox and there’s a metal clip to keep it close at hand on your belt.
Dual Power Options
The Bosch Blaze Laser Measures can run off of either standard AAs or the rechargeable Bosch GLM-BAT lithium-ion battery pack. Having two available power sources is very convenient but keep in mind that the rechargeable battery is sold separately from the GLM165-27GC.
The lithium-ion battery option not only increases the runtime of the laser measure but also gives you better performance in colder weather over AA batteries. Plus, you can charge and operate the laser measure at the same time.
If your work calls for a lot of measuring, do yourself a favor and go with the lithium-ion pack and just keep a set of AA’s on hand as a backup. With the green laser and Bluetooth functions, this model uses energy more quickly than some of the basic lasers you may be used to.
One minor negative if you’re using the belt clip is that you have to remove it to access the battery. If you’re using the lithium-ion pack, the charging port sits just out of the way, so you don’t have to take the clip off with the rechargeable pack.
Improved Durability
Compared to past models, this laser measure generation broke the mold concerning durability. The updated models in the lineup feature a full rubber overmold housing to better withstand drops from ladders, counters… you name it. Additionally, these laser measures now also come with an IP65 rating against water and dust ingress, further extending their useful life.
Additional Features
- Battery save mode
- Onboard data storage retains measurements during intermittent work
- Rounding to 1/32, 1/16, 1/8, 1/4, and 1/2-inch increments
- Selectable and standard and metric units
- Nylon carrying pouch and wrist strap included
Bosch GLM165-27 Series Comparison
There are actually three members of the GLM165-27 series and they share most of the same functions. Here’s a quick look at how they compare to one another.
| GLM165-27C | GLM165-27CG | GLM165-27CGL | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Accuracy | ±1/16 in. | ±1/16 in. | ±1/16 in. |
| Range | Up to 165 ft. | Up to 165 ft. | Up to 165 ft. |
| Bluetooth | No | Yes | Yes |
| Beam | Red | Green | Green |
| Rating | IP65 | IP65 | IP65 |
| Inclinometer | No | Yes | Yes |
| Included Batteries | 2 x AA | 2 x AA | 1 x Lithium-ion |
| Dimensions (HxL) | 4.7 x 2.1 in. | 4.7 x 2.1 in. | 4.7 x 2.1 in. |
| Price | $149 | $169 | $199 |
Basically, you’re choosing between red and green beams, and at the highest price the green laser gets includes the lithium-ion battery pack. The other functions and features are exactly the same.
Bosch GLM165-27CG Laser Measure Price
With a pair of AA batteries in the package, this laser measure runs $169. We recommend going ahead and stepping up to the GLM165-27CGL package that includes the lithium-ion battery pack for $199.
If you prefer the red laser instead, it’s $149.
No matter which way you go, Bosch warranties its lasers for 2 years if you register after your purchase.
The Bottom Line
If you’re looking for a combination of accuracy and simplicity in a 165-foot laser, Bosch has other options you should consider. The Bosch GLM165-27CG is a full-featured, connected laser for Pros who want more versatility from their laser
See more Bosch laser measures by clicking here.
Bosch GLM165-27GC Laser Measure Specifications
- Model: Bosch GLM165-27CG
- Power Source: 2x AA batteries or GLM-BAT lithium-ion battery
- IP 65 Rated
- Laser Color: Green
- Laser Type: Class 2
- Dimensions (LxWxH): 4.5 x 2 x 1 in.
- Measuring Accuracy: +/- 1/16 in.
- Measuring Range: 6 in. – 165 ft.
- Weight: 6.37 oz.
- Warranty: 2-year
- Price: $169
