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We independently research, test, review, and recommend the best products-learn more about our process. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.The Best Wire Crimping Tools for Electricians and Homeowners
Whether you’re an electrician or mechanic by profession, or simply a homeowner with a knack for DIY, a toolkit will be your friend in need. While the exact tools in this kit will vary from job to job, one apparatus that’s a must is a wire crimper. This tool is essential for working with any type of electrical wiring since it helps you bind two pieces of wires together and create a bond.
Not having a wire crimper in your arsenal can lead to delayed work at best and botched jobs at worst. Regardless, frustration will be your companion in both cases. Since all crimpers are designed differently, choosing a good one is not necessarily a walk in the park. To that end, we’ve created this detailed guide, reviewing some of the top wire crimping tools of 2023 to help you find a reliable tool for your electrical endeavors.
Show contentsComparing Our Favorite Wire Crimping Tools of 2023- Fstop Labs KOTTO Wire Crimping Tool - Best Overall
- TICONN Wire Crimping Tool - Sturdiest Construction
- Haisstronica Wire Crimping Tool - Ergonomic Grip
- Wirefy Wire Crimping Tool - Versatile Choice
- Qibaok Wire Crimping Tool - Budget-Friendly Pick
- Klein Tools Wire Crimping Tool - Premium Pick
Buying Guide to Finding a Wire Crimping ToolBuying Guide to Finding a Wire Crimping Tool
Wire crimpers are essential for anyone involved in electrical projects. This tool makes the job easier and provides safe and secure results. Sadly, the market for this apparatus is saturated. So, join us as we take you through everything you should look for in a wire crimping tool.
What To Look for When Buying Wire Crimping Tools
Build quality
A strong and sturdy build is crucial for a wire crimper; after all, nobody wants to keep replacing flimsy crimpers that break after a single job. So, look for one with a durable construction quality that can withstand excessive wear and tear.
Supported wire sizes
You should also consider the size of the wire you’ll be working with. The gauge will determine the size of the wire — the larger the number, the smaller the diameter of the wire. Check the supported wire sizes on the crimper to get one that fulfills your requirements.
Number of crimping cavities
If you want to crimp differently sized wires, you should look for a crimping tool with multiple cavities. Such tools have different cavities in the head that allow you to crimp various wire sizes. The most common is a tool with three cavities.
What Else Should You Know About Wire Crimping Tools?
Etched markings
Some crimping tools also have metrics etched onto their jaws. This keeps everything in front of your eyes while you’re working, ultimately saving time and improving productivity.
Ergonomic handles
Getting a wire crimping tool with a comfortable handle is crucial. The absence of a soft-padded handle can lead to hand fatigue and tire you out quickly. No one wants that, right? That’s why you should look for ones with an ergonomic handle and some sort of padded grip.
Types of Crimp Tools
Handheld
The handheld crimping tool looks like a regular pair of pliers but has a die on the inside jaws which is used to crimp the wire into the connector. These dies come in different shapes and sizes, depending on the size and type of connector used.
Bench-mounted
Bench-mounted wire crimpers are used for larger, heavier gauge wires. They have a much more robust mechanism than handheld crimpers and can apply more pressure to the wire and connector. The dies for these crimpers are also much larger and more heavy-duty.
Hydraulic
These crimping tools use hydraulic pressure to compress the connector onto the wire, making it suitable for very large, heavy gauge wires and connectors. These crimpers are commonly used for industrial applications and require hydraulic fluid to function.
Hammer
This kind of manual crimper uses a hammer to compress the connector onto the wire. It’s not as common as other types but can be used for some specific applications. While these crimping tools can handle much thicker wires than all other types, they’re not portable enough to bring to a job site.
Benefits of Wire Crimping Tools
Makes the job easier
The most apparent benefit of crimping tools is they make it much easier to connect two wires. This is especially true if the cables are of different gauges or sizes.
Prevents electrical shorts
Crimpers can also help prevent electrical shorts by providing a secure connection between the wires. This is possible because crimping tools help make secure and reliable wire connections.
Provides insulation
Using a wire crimping tool can also help ensure the wires are properly insulated and protected from damage. This leads to a safe and solid connection that won’t loosen due to damage.
Comparing Our Favorite Wire Crimping Tools of 2023
1Fstop Labs KOTTO Wire Crimping Tool
– Best OverallThe Fstop Labs KOTTO Wire Crimping Tool is an indispensable tool for anyone who needs to install or repair a coaxial cable system. Its adjustable F-screw head and compression tool can crimp RG6, RG59, and RG11, as well as compress 75-5-7 kinds of Metric and Imperial F-Head. The adjustable stripping blade can prevent damage to shielding and conductors for different insulation thicknesses.
The included F connectors are perfect for RG6 coaxial cable, providing a secure connection with their anti-corrosion nickel plating. They are designed to be used indoors, but the overall lightweight nature of the KOTTO Coax Cable Crimper Kit makes it suitable for indoor or outdoor use. In addition to the coax cable crimper and stripper, the kit also comes with 20 premium quality F compression connectors and a convenient storage bag. With this comprehensive set of tools, one can confidently install or repair satellite TV dish or CCTV systems to ensure that the cables remain secure and connected. With all these features and more, this wire crimping tool is our top pick on this list.
Pros- Provides a secure connection
- Suitable for outdoor use
- Comes with convenient storage bag
Cons- Not for professionals
2TICONN Wire Crimping Tool
– Sturdiest ConstructionIf you need a feature-rich crimper, the TICONN Wire Crimping Tool deserves your attention. It is a professional-grade crimper with a precise ratcheting system to provide uniform crimps. Even more, it includes crimping dies to create single and double crimps between the terminal and the wire.
Depending on the project, you can also adjust the height of the crimps with its star wheel to apply the right force. And for added convenience, this crimper features a designated quick-release lever that allows opening its jaws. Best of all, the non-slip handles provide an ergonomic grip that doesn’t put stress on your hand.
Pros- Works well with heat-shrink connector terminals
- The adjustable crimping force allows precise crimps
- Non-slippery handles for a firm grip
Cons- Heavy to hold for long durations
3Haisstronica Wire Crimping Tool
– Ergonomic GripThe Haisstronica Wire Crimping Tool is an all-rounder when it comes to crimping wires. This crimper comes with three crimping cavities that are easy to use and can be adjustable according to your requirements. Due to these crimping cavities, this product allows you to crimp multiple wire sizes.
This crimping tool also has a solid construction, making it durable but heavyweight at the same time. Although it is not a lightweight option, it allows an ergonomic grip with its non-slip nylon handle, which ensures a swift and comfortable operation. Even more, the built-in ratcheting system adjusts automatically to help you achieve uniform crimps every time.
Pros- A sturdy build ensures durability
- Suitable for multiple wire sizes
- Easy to use crimping cavities
Cons- Slightly on the heavier side
4Wirefy Wire Crimping Tool
– Versatile ChoiceThe Wirefy Wire Crimping Tool Set boasts a practical design with an ingenious ratcheting system. It has an efficient mechanism that enhances crimping efficiency and ensures you get a solid crimp within a single try. This particular crimper is perfect for working with nylon insulated and heat shrink connectors.
The well-built ratcheting system allows this crimper to create uniform, consistent crimps. You can even adjust the crimp force with its dial. It also features a quick-release lever between handles to resolve the occasional jaw jamming. Meanwhile, the non-slip grips prevent hand fatigue even after long hours of working.
Pros- Snap-ins can be effortlessly crimped
- Locks in connectors safely
- Provides strong, uniform crimps
Cons- A bit pricey
5Qibaok Wire Crimping Tool
– Budget-Friendly PickThe Qibaok Wire Crimping Tool has an excellent design for getting precise crimps without applying excessive pressure. With the help of its adjustable crimping force, you can save 50% hand pressure and still get the job done. It also features a quick-release lever to relieve the tool if it gets stuck.
Even better, this tool is made with high-quality alloy steel that ensures its durability. And for added utility, its ergonomically designed, non-slip handle provides a more comfortable grip and makes it easier to hold onto the crimper while doing heavy-duty work.
Pros- Features color-coded wire size markings
- Quick-release lever feature ensures safety
- Comfortable and secure grip for heavy-duty crimping
Cons- Does not come with a double crimper die
6Klein Tools Wire Crimping Tool
– Premium PickFor performing heavy-duty tasks, the Klein Tools Wire Crimping Tool is a suitable option. It comes with three crimping cavities with color-coded markings, making it a user-friendly tool. It also has a built-in ratcheting system that ensures full-cycle crimping for consistent results.
Besides the multiple cavities, this tool has an adjustable design that boosts crimping power. This feature is ideal for those working long hours as it allows them to use less pressure and prevents hand fatigue. To give you more control, this crimper features a dial to adjust the amount of pressure applied to the crimp as well.
Pros- Three crimping cavities in one die head
- Compatible with different wires sizes
- Durable construction and ergonomic grip
Cons- Not the most portable option
People Also Asked
Q: What is the most important thing to look for in a wire crimping tool?A: There are different aspects to consider in wire crimping tools, but the most crucial factor is to keep your requirements in mind. The right crimper should be able to handle the size of wires you need to crimp and the type of terminal you need to attach with it.
Q: Can you crimp cables with anything other than wire crimping tools?A: You may be able to do a temporary or botched job with a tool not explicitly designed for crimping. A wire crimping tool is your only option if you want to get solid, uniform crimps.
Q: Why is a wire crimping tool important?A: A wire crimping tool is essential for electrical operations as it helps secure the wire firmly within the terminal. If a joint is insufficiently compressed, it won’t retain the wire with enough force. As a result, the wire will fall out, leaving an open circuit.
