Which STABILA Magnetic or Torpedo Level Do You Need?
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A magnetic level helps hold itself against a suitable steel surface. A torpedo level is a compact level for short checks and restricted spaces. The descriptions are not interchangeable: some torpedo levels are magnetic and others are not.
Choose by the surface you work on, the space available and the readings you need. This guide compares selected STABILA models sold by GSD, rather than treating every yellow level as the same tool.
Start with the surface
Magnetic holding can be useful when positioning a level on steel while you adjust a component. It offers no holding advantage on timber, uPVC or aluminium. A magnetic model can still take a reading on those materials, but you must support it. Surface shape, coatings and contact area affect how securely it sits.
Choose a short or long reference
A torpedo level fits where a full-length tool may be awkward. For alignment across a larger frame, door or long component, choose a level with a suitable measuring length. A short level gives a local reading; it does not check the whole length of a bowed component in a single placement.
| Model | What distinguishes it | Consider it when |
|---|---|---|
| 80 ASM | Rare-earth magnetic holding; two vials on individual models | You need a longer level for steelwork |
| 96-2 M | Rare-earth magnets; two vertical vials; removable end caps | You want magnetic holding and a second plumb vial |
| 70 TM | 22cm magnetic torpedo level | The space is short and the surface is suitable for a magnetic strip |
| 70 TMW | 26cm magnetic torpedo with rotating angle vial | You also need to read or transfer an angle |
| 81 S torpedo | 25cm cast aluminium body; standard non-magnetic version | You need a compact level without magnetic holding |
Read the model suffix, not just “STABILA level”
The 80 AS, 80 AS-2 and 80 ASM are distinct choices. The 80 AS has two vials; the 80 AS-2 adds a second vertical vial; the 80 ASM adds magnetic holding. Similarly, a standard 81 S torpedo should not be ordered on the assumption that it has magnets. Check the complete name and product code.
70 TM or 70 TMW?
The 70 TM is the shorter 22cm option. The 70 TMW is 26cm and adds a rotating angle vial. Choose the latter when that extra reading is useful, while checking it will fit the available space. A rotating angle vial has its own accuracy specification; it should not be treated as a digital angle meter.
Check what the selected option includes
- Length: individual length choices normally supply one level, not the full range.
- Set: the explicitly labelled 80 ASM three-piece option is different from an individual level. Check the listed contents for the selected set.
- Holster: the 81 S torpedo has with-holster and without-holster options.
- Product code: use it to match a replacement or compare a supplier quotation.
Before taking a reading
Clean the measuring face and contact area, position the tool on the intended reference surface and follow the model’s instructions. Do not assume the normal-position accuracy also applies upside down. Magnetic holding is a positioning aid, not proof that the surface itself is straight or correctly aligned.
Need adjustable reach instead?
If the main problem is varying widths or long spans, read our 80 T versus 106 T extendable-level comparison. Match the tool’s range to the job before choosing a brand or price point.
Manufacturer references
See STABILA’s specifications for the 80 ASM, 96-2 M, 70 TM and torpedo range. Product options checked 26 October 2026.