Handgun laser sights are popular because they offer critical support for home defense, concealed carry, and range shooting. However, one of the greatest challenges a sidearm owner faces is which laser sight to buy. There’s no shortage of companies in this space. So, we’ve compiled this ArmaLaser vs. Crimson Trace vs. LaserMax comparison to walk you through the options among these leading brands. Keep reading this laser sight comparison as we explore the differences to help you identify your best option.
Meet the Brands — An Overview
ArmaLaser: Touch-Activated Precision
ArmaLaser’s dedication to simplicity, ruggedness, and affordability has helped it become the go-to choice for handgun owners wanting a no-brainer laser sight that’s easy to install and works when it matters. The company’s GripTouch system activates instantly when the pistol is gripped—there’s no button to worry about. This seamless and intuitive approach can make a difference in a high-pressure situation. Unlike competitors, ArmaLaser’s focus only on handguns enables the firm to concentrate its efforts and resources on delivering superior products.
Much of ArmaLaser’s success is due to its offering of model-specific laser sights. These precision-engineered components provide a cleaner look and a secure fit. The TR Series, available for 20 brands, is a trigger guard-based unit that looks factory-installed, while the GTO Series provides similar instant-on functionality with a rail-based system.
Crimson Trace: Industry Veteran
Crimson Trace is a legacy player in the laser sight industry. Now owned by a conglomerate comprising 20 brands in the outdoor category, the company has been around for decades. Its extensive catalog covers a broad range of sight and scope products for enthusiasts and hunters. Crimson Trace firearms solutions cover handguns, rifles, and shotguns.
While the firm offers some universal rail-based laser sights, its signature product is Laser Grip, a model-specific handgun grip replacement or attachment with an integrated laser sight. In addition, the Laser Guard uses a trigger guard method to add a laser sight. Both platforms use an Instinctive Activation system to automatically engage the laser when the handgun is securely gripped.
LaserMax: Innovative Approaches
LaserMax’s background includes supplying manufacturers and retailers with laser sighting and scope systems. The company is well-known for its integrated laser sight system, which replaces the recoil spring guide rod in select semi-automatic pistols. The system delivers a stealthy, factory-like installation with no external bulk.
The firm also offers a line of GripSense laser sights, which use a trigger guard-based system with a proximity sensor to activate. However, availability is limited to a few models. In addition, LaserMax has generic laser sights that connect to the Picatinny rail with options for simple button activation or automatic engagement via a proximity sensor. LaserMax’s portfolio also includes an optics line with rifle scopes and binoculars.
Feature Comparison
Activation Method and Ergonomics
Each brand approaches laser activation differently, impacting usability in some situations:
The ArmaLaser TR Series uses pressure sensors mounted where the trigger guard meets the grip—the laser activates instantly when you place your finger in a natural position along the frame (not on the trigger). This setup enables immediate illumination while maintaining proper trigger discipline. The rail-based GTO Series employs a similar setup using the FLX strip applied to the trigger guard exterior. Alternatively, the GTO laser housing has an integrated touch sensor with a glove sensor option for one-finger activation.
The Crimson Trace Laser Grip uses integrated pressure sensors in the replacement (or add-on) grip panels. A user grips the sidearm normally to activate the laser without requiring any unique manipulation. This technique is intuitive but requires using specific after-market grips, which may affect the feel of the handgun. The Laser Guard system employs an arrangement similar to ArmaLaser’s technology, with a touch-activated sensor installed at the base of the trigger guard.
Some LaserMax rail-based systems use manual switches with activation support on either side, while others add motion detection capability for automatic laser engagement. Devices with the newer GripSense platform activate the laser using capacitive sensors on the bottom of a small frame that covers the trigger guard.
Laser Output and Options
All three brands offer red and green laser options, with availability varying slightly by product. Buyers looking for affordability and longer battery life will favor a red laser, while those wanting better daylight functionality will want a green laser. Keep in mind that a green laser requires more complex circuitry, sometimes requiring larger cases (and limiting usage with some handguns).
- ArmaLaser: Both ArmaLaser product lines (the TR and GTO Series) are generally available in either laser color.
- Crimson Trace: Crimson Trace’s Laser Grip line is dominated by red laser offerings, with a handful of green laser options for compact and full-size 1911 models and a few Smith & Wesson, Ruger, and Kimber styles. While green laser availability expands with its Laser Guard range, two-thirds of this lineup comprises red laser units.
- LaserMax: Like ArmaLaser, most of LaserMax’s laser sights are available in either red or green.
Installation & Fit
ArmaLaser’s model-specific designs are engineered for simple installation without any permanent modification to the firearm. Depending on the type, the laser sight attaches via a custom-molded housing (TR Series) or the Picatinny rail (GTO Series). Installation takes under five minutes and requires no technical expertise or special tools.
Crimson Trace’s grip-integrated systems require replacing the factory grips or adding an overlay grip, which is straightforward for most users but alters the handgun’s feel. Depending on the gun model, the grip material is either wood or composite. Its rail-mounted systems attach easily to standardized accessory rails. Installation time averages 10-15 minutes for grip systems and under five minutes for rail-mounted options.
LaserMax’s guide rod lasers involve the most complex installation, requiring the disassembly of the slide and the replacement of internal components. The process isn’t overwhelming if you know how to field-strip your handgun. Otherwise, having a gunsmith handle the installation is best. Like the other manufacturers, the company’s external units mount more easily via a trigger guard housing or the rail system.
Price and Warranty
Cost Range of Each Brand’s Laser Units
Prices will vary based on laser color (green being more expensive) and the type (external units costing less than internal guide rod units).
| Brand | Price Range |
| ArmaLaser |
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| Crimson Trace |
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| LaserMax |
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Warranty and Support
All three manufacturers offer a limited warranty that covers defects in materials and workmanship. ArmaLaser and LaserMax offer coverage for five years. Meanwhile, Crimson Trace provides lifetime protection, but electronic components are only warrantied for three years. Crimson Trace’s protection is appealing, but the restricted coverage for electronics, the essential element of a laser sight, makes the warranty from ArmaLaser and LaserMax potentially more valuable.
Each company offers phone and email support and online resources for installation and product use. In addition, ArmaLaser and Crimson Trace provide live agent chat during business hours.
Which One is Right for You?
We’ve covered a lot of information about ArmaLaser, Crimson Trace, and LaserMax—here’s our breakdown of what matters most.
Best for Concealed Carry
ArmaLaser’s slim, frame-hugging designs are well-suited for concealed carry. The trigger guard placement avoids bulk, and the instinctive touch activation means no wasted time fumbling for a button. If you carry daily, especially with compact models like the Ruger LCP, SIG P365, or Taurus G2C, ArmaLaser is ideal. In addition, ArmaLaser offers custom-crafted, laser-compatible holsters for select models, completing the CC equation.
Crimson Trace also performs well for carry applications, particularly its Laser Grip units, which add virtually no width to the firearm. However, the altered grip feel may require adjustment for some users. LaserMax’s guide rod systems offer the cleanest external profile but typically come with higher price points and more complex installation.
Best for Range/Home Defense
For home defense or range shooting, each brand has unique strengths:
- ArmaLaser: While built for concealed carry, the company’s instant touch activation makes them fast and effective for close-quarters situations. The ample availability of a green laser option is ideal for outdoor range use or daylight defense encounters.
- Crimson Trace: The company’s grip-activated laser is unique and well-suited for home defense. This setup is also suitable for range sessions.
- LaserMax: Known primarily for its guide rod lasers, LaserMax provides a discreet, factory-like integration with zero external bulk. The main drawbacks are limited model availability and manual activation.
Our Verdict
We’ll be upfront in saying that all three companies offer very good products. So, whether you’re exploring an ArmaLaser and Crimson Trace comparison or an ArmaLaser vs. LaserMax review, it’s essential to understand how ArmaLaser stands out.
We’ll also add that there’s no substitute for Crimson Trace’s Laser Grip system or LaserMax’s internal guide rod laser sight. However, each has significant drawbacks that are unsuited to many handgun owners. And these laser sights are expensive.
Meanwhile, ArmaLaser concentrates on what we do best: laser sights that are easy to install and use. Plus, our products are reasonably priced. Combine these factors with well-made laser sights custom-designed for dozens of handgun models for a winning formula. It all adds to the best handgun laser brand,
The Right Choice for a Handgun Laser Sight
Discover why handgun owners across the country are choosing an ArmaLaser laser sight. Visit the ArmaLaser store to find a custom-fit solution for your sidearm. Still have questions? Contact customer service or call (800) 680-5020 for personalized help.
DISCLAIMER: This article is for educational purposes only and is based on correct firearm handling and lawful use. This information is not a substitute for proper training.
