A hot glue gun is a versatile tool that dispenses melted glue for a strong, long-lasting adhesive bond. It can bind almost any object like fabrics, glass, plastic, wood, foam, metal, paper, and stone. Thus, it is useful for various purposes like repairs, crafting, creativity, or DIY projects. Choosing the right one as per your work requirement is a bit difficult task. A glue gun with a thinner glue stick is perfect to deal with some precise projects, while a gun with higher wattage and temperature control features is perfect for more experienced crafters. Before investing in a hot glue gun, we suggest considering the following factors to get the best one. Types – Low temperature, high temperature and dual temperature glue guns are three main types of hot glue guns based on their temperature range.
A low temperature glue gun will heat up the glue around 250°F that is suitable for light-duty projects or child-friendly crafts. It is less prone to cause accidental burns and safe to use. High temperature glue gun heats up the glue around 380°F to create a strong bond on wood, plastic, and metal. It is suits better for hobbyists and adult crafters. Since it is hot that may cause skin burns when touched. Dual temperature glue guns offer adjustable controls that let you switch easily from high and low temperatures (as per your need). It is an ideal option while dealing with a wide variety of craft projects.
Wattage – A glue gun with more wattage will quickly heat the gun, and its hotness will stay longer when working. The wattage rating of 10 – 20 watts is enough for low temperature glue guns, while a wattage rating of 20W to 100+ W is common for high temperature guns. Most glue gun models can heat up within 3 – 5 minutes, whereas higher wattage models heat up in less than 90 seconds. Stick Size – Based on the type of glue stick, the glue guns come in various sizes, like mini or full size. A minigun is small, compact and lightweight that uses a mini stick having a 0.27-inch diameter. It dispenses less amount of glue that makes it ideal to wrap gifts or make delicate craft objects with precision. A full-size gun is larger that uses larger glue sticks of 0.44-inch diameter. It dispenses a higher volume of glue that suits for home repairs and large decorations. To help you in picking the right model, we tested various products and enlisted the top 10 best-selling hot glue guns in this article. Also, we have mentioned everything in our detailed “Buying Guide” that let you know how to select the best and most suited one.
Best Hot Glue Guns Chart
10 Best Hot Glue Guns Reviews
1. Sergia Hot Glue Gun
Sergia is a highly reliable and durable brand of hot glue guns whose products have a high user rating due to the various features that you get along with it.
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Seriga’s hot glue gun is one of the most durable and reliable options mentioned here. This electric-corded full-size set will fulfill every DIY intention in your home, office & factory. Within 60/100W dual power switch and ergonomic design (internal safety fuse & nozzle with pressure valve) will offer the effective usage of glue, and prevent the glue from constant running. Apart from having a high user rating due to its reliability, you also get a 3-year long warranty and a 60-day refund guarantee with it which is much higher than other options out there. You also get great build quality in this hot glue gun with a 100-watt heating element. While the power rating could have been higher, its dual temperature trigger offers good adjustability to the user. You get the support for 7/16 inch glue sticks while using this 20-pieces hot glue stick for the gun. Best Features:
Power rating of 100 watts Heavy-duty full-size with high-temperature resistance Backed by a 3-year long warranty Dual power rating adjustable control Excellent build quality for reliability
Pros:
Most reliable and durable hot glue gun Suitable for DIY craft or industrial use purposes. Comes with a dual power rating mode for precision Offers decent glue melting performance
Cons:
Power rating could have been slightly high A bit on the larger size.
2. AdTech Pro 200 Glue Gun
You can find a wide range of hot glue gun model offerings form AdTech that are generally quite powerful as well as reliable at the same time. The AdTech Pro200 hot glue gun is the most powerful option present in this article. This is due to the reason that apart from offering a highly 200-watt heating element, it also uses a larger ½ inch glue stick size that makes it better than other options. Despite its lower price tag, you get a 2-year long warranty that is always great to have. While the build quality could have been slightly better, you cannot expect more at the given budget price tag that offers a high value for money. Best Features:
Power rating of 200 watts Glue stick size of ½ inch 2-year long warranty Excellent performance numbers Easy to use controls for new users
Pros:
Best performing hot glue gun mentioned in this article Offers a larger glue stick size support for more glue output 2-year long warranty for peace of mind
Cons:
Build quality could have been slightly better
3. Ryobi P305 Lithium Ion Cordless Hot Glue Gun
If you are looking for a durable hot glue gun at an affordable price range, then Ryobi brand is the right choice. This hot glue gun is cordless, you can use it anywhere you want without worrying about the electrical outlet connection. This hot glue gun comes with a 4-amp hour battery which runs up to 3 to 4 hours continuously. This duration is enough to carry the task without any interruptions. It is compatible with 18V lithium ion and NiCad batteries. Its trigger is large enough to support two fingers. This gives total control over the glue stream so that you can use it as per the requirement. It also comes with a safety LED light indicator. Best Features:
Comfortable and ergonomic grip Safety indicator Long run time Maximum control Cordless 3 to 4 hours of run time
Pros:
Easy to use Heats up pretty quickly Worth the money Light in weight
Cons:
Sometimes the gun gets overheated
4. AdTech 0453 Dual Temperature Hot Glue Gun
If you are looking for a simple and budget-friendly hot glue gun, then this product from AsTech is the perfect investment. This is one of the reasons why it has made to our list of best hot glue guns. This hot glue gun is equipped with two different temperatures. For delicate materials like papers, Styrofoam and fabrics, you can use the low temperature mode. The high temperature mode can be used for projects that need strongest bond. It comes with a 5 foot cord which makes it long enough to use freely. It uses 40 watts power for melting thick glue sticks. It comes with 2-years long warranty duration. Best Features:
Good build quality Reliable brand 2 temperature settings 5 foot cord length Lays longer lines Long-lasting bond
Pros:
Budget-friendly price Decent melting performance 2-year warranty duration
Cons:
40 watts power rating could have better
5. Gluerious Mini Hot Glue Gun
Gluerious is another brand of craft glue guns that is quite popular among consumers and offers a high user rating with this model due to the multiple things that you get along with it. This Gluerious hot glue gun is an ideal tool for arts, crafts, and household repairs. This adhesive dries out quickly and gives a strong bond for various applications like crafting, woodworking, school projects, packaging, repairing, and recreational décor for DIYers, artists, or crafters. With its PTC ceramic heating system with a 20-watt power rating, the gun heats up faster and thereby releases glue within 3 – 5 minutes. The anti-drip and precise nozzle with rubber protector of the gun are designed to enhance productivity, while its built-in retractable metal stand-up base will stabilize the gun and prevent it from tipping. Thus, you can operate the gun quickly, safely, flexibly, efficiently, and comfortably with utmost precision in any position. Its robust build quality can withstand up to 500°F that allows you to fix wood, ceramic, glass, paper, metal, plastic, shell, lace, wicker, or fabric. It has sturdy 55 inches long cord making it accessible to use from different locations upon convenient plug-in. It is equipped with a power switch with an LED indicator allowing you to turn on/off and pause the gun easily. Apart from a compact body, the gun has smooth trigger propulsion for a convenient grip and well-controlled flow without mess or waste. There are 30-piece strong adhesive hot glue sticks with a standard size of 7/25 inch in thickness included in the pack along with the corded-electric glue gun. Yet the warranty information is not disclosed on the site. Best Features:
Power rating of 20 watts Glue stick size of 7/25 inch Affordable price tag for budget users Includes 30 glue sticks in the pack 55-inch long accessible cord length PTC ceramic heating system for quick release of hot glue Comfortable metal stand-up base and anti-drip nozzle
Pros:
Decent performance for the given price Offers a high value for money to the user Convenient power switch for turning on/off and flow control Silicone nozzle burn prevention Safe, efficient, stable, versatile, and reliable hot glue gun Instantly dries out and ensures a strong bond.
Cons:
The power rating could have been better Lacks warranty information.
6. Kelde Dual Temperature Hot Glue Gun
KeLDE is a smaller brand of hot glue guns when compared with other brands present in this article, with its model offering a low price tag. The KeLDE hot glue gun is the cheapest option present in this article that has a highly affordable price tag that results in a high value for money. As per its name, it offers two temperature modes for precision and control while using its 20-watt heating element. As for its glue stick support, it uses slightly smaller 7/25 inch glue sticks. A great thing about this hot glue gun is that it offers a 1-year long warranty along with a great build quality. Since you get 25 glue sticks along with it, you can start using it right away. Best Features:
Power rating of 20 watts Glue stick size of 7/25 inch 1-year long warranty Highly affordable price tag Made for simpler home applications and usage
Pros:
Offers high value for money with included glue sticks Comes with a 1-year long warranty and great build quality Small and compact design for ease of use
Cons:
Low power rating of 20 watts Glue stick size could have been higher
7. Surebonder Hot Glue Gun
Surebonder is one of the most popular brands of glue and related tools that makes a wide range of hot glue gun models out there, including this one. The Surebonder PRO2-220 hot glue gun is present in the 1st position in this article as it is one of the most powerful options out there. As per its name, it uses a 220-watt heating element that offers a wide range of adjustable temperature range. It allows you to easily change this temperature using its lighted on and off adjustment switch. As for its glue stick size support, it uses 7/16 inch thick glue sticks that is quite common when compared with other options. While the build quality offered by it is quite good, you only get a 90-day long warranty with it. Best Features:
Power rating of 220 watts Glue stick size of 7/16 inch 90-day long warranty Adjustable temperature range for ease of use Great build quality
Pros:
Offers high-end performance due to powerful heating element Easy to use controls for adjustment and precision Large inbuilt metal stand for ease of use
Cons:
Only a 90-day long warranty Expensive price tag
8. Pam Fastening Technology Glue Gun
Pam is known for making high power hot glue guns that offer high performance to the user with the given numbers and ratings. This Pam HB220 hot glue gun is present in the 3rd position in this article as it can be another great pick if you are looking for a powerful model. Just per its name, it uses a 220-watt heating element that is more than enough for most users. It reaches its maximum temperature of 140°C to 220°C within 5 minutes. Unfortunately, you only get a 30-day long warranty with it that can be an issue for a lot of users out there. The build quality of this hot glue gun is also on the average side and leaves the user wanting for more while using this 7/16 inch hot glue gun. Best Features:
Power rating of 220 watts Glue stick size of 7/16 inch 30-day long warranty Temperature range of 140°C to 220°C Reaches maximum temperature in 5 minutes
Pros:
Highly powerful hot glue gun with high temperature Achieves maximum temperature quickly Large temperature range for flexibility and ease of use
Cons:
Only a 30-day long warranty Average build quality
9. Surebonder Pro 2 Glue Gun
We are here with another hot glue gun from Surebonder that is quite affordable than the previous model mentioned in this article. Surebonder’s PRO2-100 hot glue gun is its affordable and value for money option due to its ideal power rating of 100 watts. Despite the lower power rating, it can achieve high temperatures and easily melt its 7/16 inch glue sticks. Although the build quality offered by it is quite good, you only get a 90-day long warranty with it that can be an issue for a lot of users out there. As for its body, you get a high grip and ergonomic design that allows you to easily use it for a long time. Best Features:
Power rating of 100 watts Glue stick size of 7/16 inch 90-day long warranty Great build quality for the given price tag Comfortable and ergonomic body design
Pros:
Affordable and value for money hot glue gun Decent performance from the 100-watt heating element Ergonomic design for prolonged usage
Cons:
Only a 90-day long warranty Stand could have been better
10. Surebonder Cl-195F Mini Glue Gun
Coming to the last option in this article, we have yet another hot glue gun model from Surebonder that is its cheapest option available out there. The Surebonder CL-195F hot glue gun is not made for heavy-duty applications at all. Instead, it is oriented towards simpler art and craft jobs with its small 20-watt heating element. This is also true for its glue stick size support of 5/16 inch that is smaller than other models. Since Surebonder is a reputable brand of hot glue guns, it offers a great build quality. But just like any other hot glue gun from Surebonder, this one also has just a 90-day long warranty that is a downside of this model. Best Features:
Power rating of 20 watts Glue stick size of 5/16 inch 90-day long warranty Budget oriented price tag Made for simpler home applications and usage
Pros:
Decent build quality for peace of mind Small size for ease of use Ideal for home usage
Cons:
Only a 90-day long warranty Poor power rating of 20 watts Small glue stick size of 5/16 inch
How to Choose the Best Hot Glue Gun:
We are here with a detailed buyer’s guide, where one can find the glue gun types, factors to consider before shopping, safety tips, and some frequently asked questions to get a clear idea of these hot glue guns. Let’s take a closer look into the details of factors to be taken into account while shopping for a hot glue gun.
1. Types:
Based on the temperature range, hot glue guns are categorized into three main types – high temperature, low temperature, and dual temperature. Each type has its set of pros and cons.
Low Temperature –
This low temperature glue gun will heat the glue around 250° Fahrenheit. However, the glue gun is hot at the tip, yet it is completely safe to use and less prone to trigger any accidental burns like a high-temperature glue gun. These glue guns are mostly preferred for light-duty projects (like scrapbooking or making paper chains) and a perfect choice for doing children friendly crafts, but it is a must to have adult supervision while using any type of glue gun. Ensure to use only low temperature glue sticks in these guns, which are made with a silicone base and easily melts at low temperatures.
High-Temperature Glue Gun –
This glue gun can reach a temperature of around 380° Fahrenheit that allows it to melt various types of glue sticks containing polymers, thermoplastic compounds, and acrylic ingredients. These are mostly used to generate strong bonding on wood, plastic and metals. Its main drawback is that the super-hot glue is more prone to burn the skin or cause blisters when touched. So, this gun is most suitable to use by hobbyists, adult crafters, or professionals.
Dual Temperature –
Most glue gun models offer a single temperature, while a few models come with adjustable controls, which let you switch between low and high temperatures as per your project requirement. For instance, a gun having an adjustable temperature option is perfect to use for a wide range of craft projects. A few heavy-duty hot glue guns can go higher as 120W, 125W, or even 220W. In case, if your task/project, like creating a heavy wreath by using pine cones will need a lot of glue, then you have less downtime while using a high-temperature glue gun having 60+ watts. Although, you can use a low-temperature gun to create this wreath, but have to wait a minute after fixing every cone to let the gun heat up again. Most models get warm up within 3 – 5 minutes, while a few higher wattage models heat up in lesser than 1 ½ minute.
3. Gun Size:
The glue guns are available in various sizes, like mini or full sizes. The type of glue stick you use will relate to gun size. Narrow mini sticks with 0.27 inches in diameter are used in a mini glue gun type, while larger sticks with 0.44 inches in diameter are used by full-size glue guns. Usually, the full-size guns distribute a larger amount of hot glue upon every squeeze, while mini guns distribute a smaller volume that makes it perfect to wrap gifts, and make delicate DIY or craft items like Christmas ornaments. Here, the minigun is lighter and compact, which makes it ideal for detailed work, where one has to apply glue with precision. So, the craftsmen making intricate items such as jewelry prefer to use a mini glue gun. Full-size glue guns are larger and can deliver higher amounts of glue, which is perfect for home repairs and large decorations, where you have to do lots of work. But these full-size guns are not meant for precise working.
4. Tip Size:
A glue gun with multiple tips is quite useful while dealing with a project/task that needs to work with different materials. So, you can easily set the suitable tip size based on your project requirement without using multiple guns with fixed tips. Large tips are ideal for projects requiring a lot of glue, whereas smaller tips are great for detailed work. If using a new hot glue gun for a specific type of application, then go with the model that particularly suits your needs. But if looking to use the gun on a different application, where flexibility plays a key role, then choose a model with interchangeable tips.
5. Glue Stick Size:
We know that a glue gun is made to operate with a particular glue stick size, ranging from smaller/thinner 7mm glue sticks to larger/thicker 15mm glue sticks. So, irrespective of using any glue gun, go for a compatible glue stick size, to ensure not to end up with mismatched materials and invalid use of glue stick.
6. Power Source:
We all are aware that glue gun operates by using either corded or cordless power sources. The corded ones are conventional and the most popular glue gun that works by plugging into a wall outlet. While cordless ones are getting popular these days due to their portability, which works on either a rechargeable lithium-ion battery or disposable butane cartridges. Corded Hot Glue Gun – If looking to purchase a corded model, then ensure that it has adequate cord length to work freely without moving a heavy desk around the room. Or you can use an extension cord when you found that the cord of the gun is short to use comfortably. Apart from this limited cord length, it works powerful and is perfect to do even heavy-duty tasks. Cordless Hot Glue Gun – If portability is your main concern, then go with this cordless model, as it allows you to reach spots like gluing loose shingle on garden shed, where an outlet power source is not available. It uses a fully charged 18-volt battery or a butane cartridge to power the gun for 2 – 3 hours.
7. Temperature Control:
The hotter the glue gun, the quicker it produces adhesive. Few glue gun models won’t offer any temperature control, except an on/off switch, while other gun models allow you to turn the temperature down or up to generate glue at a slower or faster rate. This feature is crucial for projects requiring more adhesive faster or slows down the adhesive flow while dealing with intricate projects.
8. Feed Type:
Manual and trigger feeds are two main feed types available to make glue sticks get into a heating barrel for proper usage of the hot glue gun. In manual feed, the user has to push the glue stick to heat the glue. This makes it less popular due to its uneven pushing of glue. Also, it results in not fully melting of glue sticks. In trigger feed, the user has to hold down a trigger pushing the glue, which regulates the flow of glue and makes it work perfect. However, choosing a feed type depends on personal preference. Manual feed is an ideal option for those having low hand strength who are unable to use trigger feed glue guns.
9. Additional Features:
However, the design of these glue guns is straightforward, yet finding a few features will allow you to use them with ease and make crafting effortlessly. Here are some of the features to check while buying a hot glue gun. On/Off Switch – Most gun models turn on by default whenever they are plugged in and turns off till unplug. Yet only a few models offer off/on switches that let you turn off even when the gun is plugged in. This provides you with the convenience to use the gun without turning on/off the main switch. Stand – When you want to set the gun down, then use a flip-down tripod to balance the glue gun. A few models have a separate stand to rest the gun till you use it for next time. So, this stand will prevent the hot tip from getting into your surface contact while not holding it. Yet others have an upright design that stands on their base. Sleeved Tip – A glue gun featuring a heat-resistant sleeve is considered the safest one to use, why because, they cover most of this metal dispensing tip and thereby makes you less prone to burn your skin or fingers.
10. Price:
The price range of most basic hot glue guns will be from $10 – $30, depending on their temperature range, size, and other features. While models offering extra features/parts will have to pay a few more dollars. For instance, a few hot glue gun models come in kits that include a gun, different nozzles, and glue sticks. If you are a budget freak, then prefer to purchase an off-brand model offering the same functionality and features just as branded one at an affordable price. Yet, check out its durability, reliability, and warranty on the product before making its purchase.
11. Build Quality and Warranty:
If you are looking for a hot glue gun that lasts for a longer time, then purchase a model that is built properly and offers sturdy construction. A few models use cheaper plastics, while other use high-quality plastic and metal pieces for their construction. Apart from its build quality, one has to check the warranty duration offered by a particular hot glue gun. Generally, hot glue guns come with a 1-year long warranty for peace of mind. Some reliable and durable options may come with a 3-year long warranty.
Safety Tips to Use Glue Guns:
Here are some safety tips that you have to follow while using a glue gun.
Ensure that the nozzle cooled properly before touching them. Place a sheet of silicone or paper under the hot glue gun to protect the workplace from its melted glue. It is a must to wear protective gear while working with this hot glue gun. So, wear an apron (to protect yourself), goggles (to protect the eyes), and heat-proof gloves (to protect hands safe). Never allow kids to use this hot glue gun without adult supervision. Also, don’t let them play with this gun. One can find some hot glue guns offering some safety features like silicone tips, timed automatic shutoff, and overheating prevention that helps to use them safely.
Conclusion:
Even though hot glue guns are so simple and straight handy, they can be highly handy for various kinds of uses. As a result, there are a wide range of hot glue guns; choosing one of them can be a bit difficult. Therefore, we have mentioned some of the best hot glue guns, along with their major features and options. You can even find a detailed buying guide in this article, along with the important factors and aspects related to such hot glue guns. But if you want, you can also consider one of the following recommendations before buying one:
If you want a highly powerful hot glue gun that goes up to high temperatures, then you can go with the AdTech Pro200 glue gun. This is due to the reason that it offers a high 200-watt power heating element along with a ½ inch stick thickness support. But if you are on a budget, you can go with the Kelde hot glue gun. While it has a power rating of just 20 watts with a stick size of 7/25 inch, you cannot expect more at the given price tag. You should also consider the Sergia Hot Glue Gun as it is the most reliable and durable option present in this article. Its 100-watt heating element comes with a 3-year long warranty along with the great build quality of this glue gun.
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