Stabila Type 70 vs 70-2 40cm spirit level is not a choice between two different lengths or two different accuracy classes. Both are compact 40cm aluminium levels built around the same straightforward job: checking horizontal level and vertical plumb. The useful difference is vial layout. Type 70 has one horizontal and one vertical vial; Type 70-2 adds a second vertical vial so a plumb reading is available from either end of the profile.
The leaner layout: one horizontal vial and one vertical vial in a 40cm profile. It suits routine level and plumb checks where you can place and read the tool from the required side without obstruction.
The extra-access layout: one horizontal vial and two vertical vials. The second plumb vial gives another reading position when a corner, pipe, frame or nearby surface makes one end awkward to see.
Start with what stays the same. STABILA lists both Type 70 families with a light aluminium rectangular profile, one coated measuring surface and normal-position accuracy of ±0.5mm/m. Both 40cm models are compact enough for cabinet runs, short frames, socket and accessory lines, radiator brackets, sanitaryware and other work where a longer level can be inconvenient. The profiles are not magnetic, digital or slope-reading specialist tools; they are conventional site levels for direct level and plumb checks.
| Point to check | Type 70 40cm | Type 70-2 40cm |
|---|---|---|
| Horizontal vials | One | One |
| Vertical vials | One | Two |
| Measuring surface | One coated surface | One coated surface |
| Normal-position accuracy | ±0.5mm/m | ±0.5mm/m |
| Main selection reason | Simple two-vial layout | Second plumb reading position |
The distinction is therefore access, not a claim that one gives a finer horizontal reading. The Stabila Type 70 40cm spirit level covers horizontal and vertical work with two vials. The Stabila Type 70-2 40cm spirit level keeps the same core format but places a vertical vial at each end. That can reduce the need to turn the level around purely to bring a plumb vial into view.
Type 70 is the direct option for repeatable work on open faces. If you are setting a short run of boxes, checking a visible frame, aligning a bracket or plumbing a surface where both ends of the level remain accessible, one vertical vial does the job. You still get a dedicated horizontal vial for level and a dedicated vertical vial for plumb; “single” in the APM product title does not mean a one-vial tool.
That last point matters when comparing product listings. Count the vial functions shown in the specification rather than relying on a shortened title. The official STABILA Type 70 specification states one horizontal vial and one vertical vial. It also identifies electrical installation, tiling and heating installation among the intended measuring fields, which fits the kind of short, close-working checks common on West London refurbishment work.
Type 70-2 earns its place when the work regularly puts one end of the level against an obstruction. Think inside a shallow service area, beside a soil or heating pipe, against a return wall, around a cabinet carcass or on a frame where your line of sight changes as the job progresses. With a vertical vial at each end, you can use the end that remains readable instead of rotating the tool solely to find the only plumb vial.
The official STABILA Type 70-2 specification describes two vertical vials for quick readings in different positions. That is the practical reason to step up to the 70-2 layout. It is not a substitute for choosing the right length, checking the measuring face is clean, or confirming that the profile sits squarely on the surface being tested.
A compact level is useful because it fits the work, not because short tools remove the need for good technique. Wipe dust, adhesive, plaster and swarf from the coated measuring surface before each check. Seat the same measuring face firmly against the work and look squarely at the vial rather than from a sharp angle. On a questionable reading, turn the level end-for-end on the same reference surface and compare the result. If the readings do not agree, stop and inspect the surface, the tool and the way it is being held.
Do not bridge a span that is longer than the profile and assume the two endpoints represent everything between them. For longer walls, pipe runs or repeated bracket centres, choose a longer level or establish a suitable reference line. The 40cm format is strongest where its full measuring surface can contact the item being checked.
Protect the vials and profile in the van and tool bag. A spirit level is a measuring tool, not a straightedge for cutting, a lever or a striking tool. Check it after a drop or impact before relying on it for finish-critical work. These simple habits matter more than adding features that the job does not use.
Browse APM’s levels collection when the working length or layout needs to change, or the wider hand tools collection when you are completing a job list. The sensible kit may include more than one level length: a compact 40cm model for close work and a longer profile for wider references.
For a final choice, compare the two exact product pages above and decide whether the second plumb vial will save useful handling on your regular work. APM Electricals is at 24 Western Avenue, Acton, W3 7TZ. Call 020 8702 8080 if you want the counter team to check the current product details before you travel.
{"one"=>"Select 2 or 3 items to compare", "other"=>"{{ count }} of 3 items selected"}
Leave a comment