How to Use the Vertical Level

This shows the same left–right tilt as the horizontal level, but displayed in a vertical tube — just like a physical spirit level where the vertical vial sits alongside the horizontal one. It's great when a vertical display is easier to read — like when checking a surface while crouching or holding the phone against a wall.

Hold your phone upright against a wall or door frame. The bubble moves up and down. When it's centered, the surface you're checking is perfectly vertical. The degree reading tells you how far off you are.

This is different from the Horizontal Level, which measures left-right tilt. If you're laying something flat (like a shelf), use horizontal. If you're checking something upright (like a fence post), use this one.

Calibrate sets the current tilt as your new zero point. Useful if you're comparing two surfaces rather than checking absolute level.

Frequently Asked Questions

When would I use vertical instead of horizontal?

Use vertical when you're checking things that stand upright — walls, door frames, fence posts, shelving uprights. Horizontal is for flat surfaces like tables and countertops. Think of it this way: if you'd hold a traditional spirit level sideways against it, use vertical here.

Can I check if a wall is plumb with this?

Yes. Hold your phone flat against the wall and tap Check Level. If the bubble sits in the middle, the wall is plumb. If it drifts up or down, the wall leans in that direction. Just keep in mind phone sensors are accurate to about ±0.2°, which is fine for DIY but not survey-grade.

The reading seems off compared to my physical level

Phone sensors have a small manufacturing offset — every phone is slightly different. Tap Calibrate on a surface you trust, and that becomes your new zero. Also make sure your phone case isn't warped, since even a slight bend can throw off readings.

How is this different from the horizontal level?

They measure the same thing — left-right tilt. The difference is the display. The horizontal page shows a sideways tube with the bubble sliding left and right. This page shows a tall tube with the bubble moving up and down. Some people find one easier to read than the other depending on how they're holding the phone or what they're checking.

Does it work in landscape mode?

It's designed for portrait mode. If you rotate your phone to landscape, the axes swap and the reading won't be correct. Keep your phone in portrait orientation for accurate results. For landscape tilt, the Horizontal Level is more appropriate.