Engine Oil: what's best?

[KWAWD]

Question about the level shown on the dipstick, how critical is that?
Currently when cold it shows my oil level as a little high, about a cm over the max mark.

[Dave]

Question about the level shown on the dipstick, how critical is that?
Currently when cold it shows my oil level as a little high, about a cm over the max mark.

Drain a bit off. There is a reason the top mark is called 'MAX'.

Too much oil and the crank will turn it into froth, making your oil the equivalent of using washing up bubbles to lube the engine

[Victa Twin]

Question about the level shown on the dipstick, how critical is that?
Currently when cold it shows my oil level as a little high, about a cm over the max mark.

When left standing overnight, ensure that you remove and wipe the dipstick then reinsert it again to check the level. Obviously the car must be on a level surface.
Just removing it in the morning and checking the level is not accurate.
If it is still 1cm too high perhaps you could drain some out or if it is less than 1cm just change the oil filter without priming it.