10 Best Wire Crimping Tools for Wiring Project [ Reviews & Buying Guide]
Published on November 7, 2021
If you often work on electrical or networking projects where you have to connect wires to terminals, solder wires, or make cable connections, then you need a good wire crimping tools.
A crimper allows you to quickly connect or fuse metal wires. These tools are versatile and easy to use. Whether you are a professional or a DIYer, you must have a good quality crimper in your toolkit.
You will come across many different brands of crimpers in the market. But not all wire crimpers are made equal. A good crimper should have better functionality, ergonomic features, and durability.
If you are looking for the best crimping tools, you have come to the right place. In this post, we will give you an overview of some of the best-selling cable crimpers that you may find useful. So without wasting time, let’s get into the details.
Choose the Right Wire Crimping Tools for Your Project
We have reviewed 10 of the top cable crimping tools in the market. It is our attempt to veer you in the right direction, so you can find the right crimper to meet your requirements. Go through the details and choose the one that is most appropriate for you.
1. Titan 11477 Ratcheting Wire Terminal Crimper Tool for Fixed Jaw Crimper: Our Top Pick
Our top pick is Titan 1147 Ratcheting Wire Terminal Crimper Tool. It is a piece of high-quality equipment that is built to last for years.
Why is it Unique?
This crimping tool is suitable for both professionals and non-professionals. It can be used to crimp insulated terminals gauge up to 22-10, while the dual crimp enhances wire retention.
It features a high-quality built and has 3 crimping cavities to make your work easier. The ratcheting mechanism coupled with adjustable clamping force allows for repeatable and precise crimps.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers have voted highly for this product because of its high-quality construction. It is compatible with a wide range of wire sizes, which makes it an ideal choice for users.
According to buyers, it makes their work easier. Plus, it has 3 crimping cavities.
Pros
- It has high-quality construction.
- It comes with ergonomic bi-material handles.
- It is quite affordable.
Cons
- It does not include a warranty.
Best Fit For
This ergonomic tool is best suited for nylon insulated solderless terminals. It should not be used with heat-shrink connectors.
- Ratcheting mechanism with adjustable clamping force allows for precise, repeatable crimps | Compound...
- Double crimping die creates a secure crimp that resists pull-out | Ratcheting function allows you to...
- Quick release lever frees the crimper jaws in any position and when double crimp is complete, acts...
Last update on 2021-11-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
2. Klein Tools 3005CR Wire Crimper Tool for 10 to 22 AWG Wire: Best Selling
With a full five-star rating, this is one of the best crimper tools you will find in the market. Klein Tools 3005CR Wire Crimper Tool is a highly effective device that is great for heavy-duty purposes.
Why is it Unique?
With this crimper tool, you can crimp insulated wire terminals of up to 10-22 AWG. Like the previous tool, this one also has 3 crimping cavities with color-coded wire markings.
It is a user-friendly tool that requires low effort to crimp. Due to the 3 crimping cavities, you can use this tool with most wires.
Buyer’s Experience
This tool provides value for money. It can be used with a wide range of wires, which is one of the biggest reasons behind its popularity.
Buyers get the confidence to buy this tool because it comes with a 1-year warranty. Plus, it has a sturdy and durable build which ensures long years of service.
Pros
- It is compatible with a wide range of wires.
- It comes with 3 crimping cavities.
- It is backed by a 1-year warranty.
Cons
- It is not very portable.
Best Fit For
This is an efficient wire crimper tool that can be used with insulated terminals of sizes up to 10-22 AWG.
- Crimps insulated terminals onto 10-22 AWG stranded copper wire
- Adjustable compound action design puts more crimping power into each squeeze
- Three crimping cavities in one tool: 22–16 AWG (Red), 16–14 AWG (Blue) and 12–10 AWG (Yellow)...
Last update on 2021-11-23 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
3. Hilitchi Professional Crimper Tool: Best For Professionals
If you are looking for a crimping tool for professional use, then Hilitchi Professional Crimper Tool could be the best choice for you. This is a self-adjustable crimping device carved out of special steel.
Why it is Unique?
This is a high-quality ratchet crimping tool that is built to perfection. It is made of special steel and can be used for a wide variety of wires.
The handle grasping position and the compact structure of the tool are what make it more effective. This tool is ideal for those looking for a budget-friendly option. Despite the low price tag, it comes with 3 crimping cavities.
Buyer’s Experience
The high-quality built and self-adjustable ratchet mechanism is the two things that buyers like the most about this tool. Compared to other crimpers, this is easy to operate.
Buyers go for this tool because it applies to most types of fully-insulated and semi-insulated terminal connectors.
Pros
- It is compatible with wire sizes of up to 10-22 AWG 10.
- It is a budget-friendly tool.
- It has a total of 3 crimping cavities.
Cons
- It doesn’t have any manufacturer warranty.
Best Fit For
This is a user-friendly crimping tool that is suitable for a wide range of semi-insulated and fully insulated crimp terminals and butt terminal connectors.
- High quality professional crimping pliers tool with self adjustable ratchet mechanism, for easy...
- Ratcheting action ensures a perfect crimp every time
- Applicable to most types of semi-insulated and fully insulated butt terminals connectors
Last update on 2021-11-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
4. Wirefy Crimping Tool Set 5 PCS – Ratcheting Wire Crimper: Best Versatile
Wirefy Crimping Tool Set 5 PCS is a versatile device that makes a great option for professionals. Even though it is a bit expensive, the price is worth paying for.
Why is it Unique?
This crimper tool is built for heavy-duty usage. It comes with 4 die sets which give you a total of 16 crimping cavities. This enables you to work with a large variety of wire sizes, ranging from 8-22 AWG.
It features a sturdy build quality that will last you for years. Due to the precise ratcheting mechanism, it gives you uniform crimps every time.
Buyer’s Experience
This tool can be used with a large variety of wire sizes. Besides that, it has 4 die sets with 16 crimping cavities. It is because of these reasons that customers often prefer this product over other options.
It is also backed by a lifetime warranty which gives additional confidence to buyers to invest in this product.
Pros
- It has 4 die sets in total.
- It is a versatile tool.
- It is quite durable.
Cons
- It is a bit on the expensive side.
Best Fit For
This is a highly versatile tool that works great with nylon, heat shrink connectors, non-insulated, and ferrule terminals.
- VERSATILE CRIMP TOOL - Works with heat shrink connectors, nylon, non-insulated, ferrule terminals
- PERFECT CRIMPS EVERY TIME - Precise ratcheting mechanism makes proper uniform crimps every time
- EFFORTLESS CRIMPING - Professional grade crimping mechanism for all day crimping without sore hands
Last update on 2021-11-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
5. Haisstronica Crimping Tool For Heat Shrink Connectors-AWG 22-10 Ratchet Wire Terminal Crimper: Best For Performance
Haisstronica Crimping Tool is popular for its performance. It is a durable device that facilitates a smooth operation. This tool is best suited for DIYers.
Why is it Unique?
To start with, it gives you a total of 3 crimping cavities. You can use this tool with wire sizes of up to AWG 10 and AWG 22. Besides that, you are provided with a 1-year warranty.
If you want a durable crimper that will last you for years, this could be the best choice for you.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers love the sturdy build quality of the tool. This is a long-lasting device that gives you good crimps every time.
Many buyers have claimed it to have an ergonomic design. It comes with a nylon, non-slip handle that ensures swift and comfortable operation. The quick-release lever on the inside of the handle helps open the jaws easily.
Pros
- It is sturdy and durable built.
- It is compatible with multiple wire sizes.
- It comes with a 1-year warranty.
Cons
- It is a bit heavy.
Best Fit For
This tool can be used to crimp products of different sizes. But it is best suited for heat shrink connectors. With the help of this tool, you can meet your different work needs.
- Crimper Tool-A perfect fit for Haisstronica's heat shrink connectors. The professional jaw can...
- Precise Ratchet Structure- According to the pressure needed to crimp products of different sizes,...
- Ergonomic Design- The nylon, non-slip handle ensures comfortable and swift operation. There is a...
Last update on 2021-11-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
6. Qibaok Crimping Tool Ratcheting Wire Crimper for Heat Shrink Connectors: Best For Heat Shrink Connectors
This crimping tool from Qibaok works great with heat shrink connectors. Even though Qibaok is a small company, it makes quality products like this one.
Why is it Unique?
This wire crimper comes with a large accessory kit consisting of 200 heat shrink connectors. The tool itself has a total of 3 crimping cavities which makes it convenient to use.
The best thing about this crimping tool is that it can be used with a wide variety of wire sizes. Plus, it has sturdy built, so you need not worry about the tool breaking easily.
Another great feature is the star wheel that allows you to adjust the crimping height to ensure the right amount of crimping force.
Buyer’s Experience
This is a durable and compact tool that is easy to operate. Due to the ergonomic design of the device, it is suitable for both professionals and DIYers.
Buyers opt for this product because it comes with a large accessory kit. With this tool, you can get full value for your money.
Pros
- It comes with an accessory kit.
- It is a highly versatile tool.
- It is compact and easy to use.
Cons
- It doesn’t have a warranty.
Best Fit For
This tool works best with heat shrink connectors. It can be used to repair a variety of home appliances, vehicle circuit connections, and home circuits.
- PROFESSIONAL CRIMPING TOOL-This wire crimper tool works best with heat shrink connectors.this hand...
- PRECISE RATCHETING MECHANISM-Wire connectors are crimped by squeezing the handle through a complete...
- ADJUSTABLE CRIMPING FORCE-The tool has a star wheel that allows to adjust crimping height to ensure...
Last update on 2021-11-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
7. Knoweasy Wire Crimping Tool of AWG22-10 and Electrical Connectors Kit: Best Budget
If you are looking for a budget-friendly crimping tool, then Knoweasy Wire Crimping Tool Kit could be the best choice for you. With the help of this tool, you can meet all your work needs.
Why is it Unique?
This is a compact tool that is comparatively easier to use. It also comes with a full accessory kit consisting of 27 types of wire terminal connectors.
It features a ratcheting design that allows you to use it with just one hand. Also, you don’t need to use a lot of strength while crimping. With this tool, you can get your work done quickly and easily.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers like a durable hand tool. This tool is great for your home improvement. Plus, it is provided with 12 months warranty to make your purchase risk-free.
You can use this tool with wire sizes of AWG 10 to AWG 22.
Pros
- It comes with 12 months warranty.
- It has a great build quality.
- It offers a total of 3 crimping cavities.
Cons
- It could have been more sturdy and durable.
Best Fit For
This tool is suitable for wiring. Besides that, you can also use it for all kinds of equipment batteries, switches, households, cars, and electronic components with pins.
- ✅【What you get:】A box of 700pcs- 27 types of wire terminals connectors. RED for (0.5-1.5mm²...
- ✅【Ratcheting Design:】For this Insulated terminals crimping tool, one-hand operation could make...
- ✅【Application:】Connectors Crimping Tool Kit could help you quickly complete the wiring,...
Last update on 2021-11-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
8. IWISS Open Barrel Crimping Tools: Best Precision
IWISS Open Barrel Crimping Tools is designed for accuracy and precision. This is one of the best crimping tools you will find in the market.
Why it is Unique?
This is a versatile tool with great build quality. Given the construction of the device, it is ideal for harnessing wires and cables.
It has a crimping range of AWG 24-12. Unlike many other tools, it is ultra-precise and ensures accurate crimps every time. The double-hinge mechanism helps keep the jaws parallel to allow for a straight crimping engagement.
Buyer’s Experience
This tool has specially designed jaws to provide accurate crimps. With the help of this tool, you can work on wires ranging between 2.2 to 3.4mm.
Buyers also claimed that the tool is durable and easy to use. Plus, it is lighter than other crimping tools in the market.
Pros
- It delivers great precision.
- It is easy to use.
- It has a great build quality.
Cons
- It does not include a warranty.
Best Fit For
This is a user-friendly crimping device that can be used with a large variety of wires. It can be used to repair electronic appliances and electric circuits.
- 1. Crimping Range: AWG 24-12(0.21-3.31mm2).
- 2. Ultra-precise crimper ensures excellent and accurate crimps.
- 3. Double-hinge mechanism that keeps the jaws parallel for a straight crimping engagement.
Last update on 2021-11-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
9. IWISS SN-01BM Micro Connector Crimping Tools: Best Design
We have yet another crimping tool from IWISS. This one is equally efficient as the previous one. Also, it features a great design that makes it easier to use.
Why is it Unique?
First of all, this tool is compatible with various types of connectors like Molex, JST, ATX, and IDE. Just like the previous device, this one also delivers high precision. This is made possible with the wire-electrode cutting jaw.
The ergonomic design of the tool makes it comfortable to use. Not just that, but it also offers a solid grip, so you can work with ease.
Buyer’s Experience
Buyers are fond of this tool because of its high-quality build and ergonomic design. This tool is designed to deliver outstanding performance. Also, it works well with a variety of wire sizes.
If you want accurate results, this tool could be the best choice for you. Unlike other crimpers, it makes very few errors. Last but not the least, the jaws of this tool feature three different sizes of crimpers built into them.
Pros
- It has steel-made ratchet crimping components.
- It comes with multiple sizes of crimpers.
- It is a well-functioning crimper tool.
Cons
- It requires constant maintenance.
Best Fit For
This tool has a self-releasing mechanism that allows you to work with ease. You can use this device to work on various wire sizes.
10. Spark Plug Wire Crimper Tool: Best Multifunction
Lastly, we have the Spark Plug Wire Crimper, which is a high-quality multifunctional device. This is an efficient and versatile tool that is designed to meet your work needs.
Why is it Unique?
This crimping tool works on spark plug wire with a diameter of 8.5 to 8mm. With the help of this device, you can quickly and effectively cut, strip, and crimp.
To make this tool more efficient, it is coated with light rust preventative oil. This helps prevent the tool from rust or corrosion and thus, keeps the part moving freely.
Buyer’s Experience
Users have claimed that the tool has a polished jaw and ratchet mechanism to deliver a high-quality crimping effect.
They also voted highly for the ergonomic lever structure design that helps them to crimp with less effort.
Pros
- It puts less stress on your hands.
- It comes with a 1-year warranty.
- It is a durable tool.
Cons
- Not as versatile as other crimping tools.
Best Fit For
You can use this tool to repair home appliances, electronic circuits, and anything related to circuits. Since this is a durable device, you don’t have to worry about breaking it.
- 【MULTI-FUNCTION 3 IN 1】The wire crimping tool works on spark plug wire diameter is 8.5-8mm. Use...
- 【HIGH QUALITY 】Ratchet Spark Plug Wire Crimper already been applied with some light rust...
- 【PRECISE JAWS】 Well polished jaw and ratchet mechanism ensure high-quality crimping effect after...
Last update on 2021-11-24 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
What to Look for When Buying Wire Crimping Tools??
There are certain important things you need to look into when buying a quality crimping tool. If you are buying a crimping device for the first time, you must go through the details given below. This will help you find the right crimper for your work.
1. Crimp Size
The first thing you need to consider is the crimp size. The good thing is that crimpers are available in different sizes. For light-duty purposes, a unit capable of crimping 4-8 position modular connectors should be fine. But if you need a tool for covering heavy-duty tasks, then you must choose between RJ45, RJ12, and RJ11.
2. Ease of Use
Cutting, stripping, and crimping wires are time-consuming tasks. Therefore, you need a crimping tool that is user-friendly and has an ergonomic design. Look for the tools that come with textured and soft handles. This will allow you to work comfortably while reducing the stress on your hands. Besides that, you must make sure that the tool is safe to use. In this case, you must look for a crimper that comes with a blade guard.
3. Ratchet System
The next important thing is the ratchet system. Before you buy a crimper tool, you should know that some devices have a full cycle ratchet system, while others don’t. If you want the best results, then it’s better to opt for a full cycle ratchet system. This ensures that the handle will not release before you are done crimping.
4. Material
All crimping tools are invariably made of steel. But if you want the most durable ones, then you should go for a tool that is made of carbon steel as it is regarded to have the highest durability. In this case, you will find two options, high carbon steel, and hardened steel. The latter makes a more appropriate choice for obvious reasons. You will find hardened steel in the most hammer and hydraulic crimping tools. That’s because it has high resilience to impact and pressure.
Most handheld crimpers come with rubber or plastic grips for added comfort. If you buy a cheap crimper, you will find the grip to be thin, which is more prone to splitting. This is why you are advised to opt for a better quality tool as they have thicker padding. This ensures a better and solid grip.
5. Connector Types
You must also consider the connector types and the materials they are made with. Some crimping tools work best with nylon, while others are more suitable for PVC. This is why it is crucial for you to understand the specs of a connector so that you can choose the right crimper. Sometimes, the manufacturer makes your selection easier by providing clear definitions. Some crimpers also feature color-coding jaws, so it’s easier for you to identify.
6. Warranty
Lastly, you must also consider the warranty period offered with the tool. Usually, crimpers come with a 1-year warranty. Almost all reputable brands provide a warranty with their products. You should avoid buying a device that has no warranty. A warranty gives you the confidence to invest in a product.
Types of Crimping Tools
Before you set out to buy the best crimping tool, you must know the types of crimping tools that exist in the market. We have outlined the different types of crimping tools for your convenience.
1. Handheld
A handheld crimping tool is the most basic crimping tool out there. This type of crimpers is controlled manually and is highly portable. It is mainly used for small-sized items. In terms of looks, they look more like pliers with clamps.
2. Benchtop
These types of crimpers are comparatively bulkier, but they are capable of heavy-duty tasks. They are designed to be mounted on workbenches to perform demanding crimping tasks. These crimpers are usually operated by hand, but some of them are also powered by electric motors.
3. Electrical
These types of crimping tools are powered by batteries. Unlike manual crimpers, it doesn’t require much effort. Battery-operated crimpers are also lightweight and portable. It can be used to meet varying requirements and has ergonomic ratchets and fittings.
4. Hydraulic
Hydraulic crimpers are easy to use and don’t require much effort to function properly. It derives compression power from the hydraulic fluid. These tools are used for maintenance requirements and in several industrial applications.
5. Pneumatic
Pneumatic crimping tools are based on compressed air which makes them more efficient than other types. They are used for serious and heavy-duty crimping tasks that require sufficient power. Pneumatic models have both manual and workbench models.
Popular Brands 🏆
There are several different brands offering crimping tools. But only a handful of them is worth buying. Some of the most popular options are:
1. Titan
Titan is also a well-known brand. They have been offering quality tools and devices for years. If you want high-quality crimpers that are suitable for heavy-duty tasks, then Titan could be a good choice for you.
2. Klein Tools
Klein Tools is a reputed brand that specializes in handheld tools and equipment. They manufacture a wide range of high-quality tools that are trusted by both professionals and DIYers. Buying a wire crimper from a brand like Klein Tools ensures performance, quality, and durability.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. What exactly wire crimping is?
Ans: Crimping is the process that is used to securely connect electrical connectors to the required cables. You need a good crimping tool to crimp wires.
Q2. What is the most important thing to look for in a crimping tool?
Ans: When buying a crimping tool, you must make sure that it can handle the type of terminal you will attach it with. Besides that, you also need to consider the size of the wires.
Q3. Crimping or soldering? Which is better?
Ans: Crimping offers a more reliable and stronger connection than soldering. Soldering uses heated metal to join the connector to the cable. The metal filler will degrade over time which in return causes the connection to fail. This is why most electricians agree that crimping is better than soldering.
Q4. Can you crimp wires and cables with pliers?
Ans: Without a crimping tool, you cannot achieve the necessary compressive force. This is why it is best to use a crimper to attach connectors to wires. Pliers on the other hand can result in a loose connection which will eventually lead to an open circuit.
Q5. What are the types of crimping?
Ans: The different types of crimping are Hexagonal crimping, Indent crimping, quad-point crimp, and notch crimp.
Final Words
Having a high-quality crimper tool makes your work easier. It saves you a lot of time and effort. You can pick any of the mentioned tools to meet your work needs. These are high-quality crimping tools from reputed brands. These tools are trusted and used by many users. To make the most out of your crimping device, you should choose the one that is best suited for you.
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