We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post.
| Preview | Name | Awards | Purchase |
|---|---|---|---|
  | Apollo PEX | Best Overall | |
  | Klein Tools | Best for the Money | |
  | Etekcity | Best on a Budget |
When you need to crimp two pieces of material like metal together, you will find yourself in need of a crimping tool. The tool creates a deformity or bends the material which is why it’s referred to as a crimp. Electrical technicians, network administrators and LAN operators find they need a crimping tool often to perform their jobs. But, they aren’t the only people who need the use of this tool. Homeowners and plumbers should always have the best crimping tool inside a toolbox just in case.
This handheld tool needs to be able to conjoin items together, so it must be heavy-duty. That isn’t all they are useful for. In fact, crimping tools are also helpful for stripping wires. You might have a use for this when you are hooking up your electronic systems, installing fixtures or upgrading your electrical outlets in the home.
To remove some of the confusion regarding the wide array of crimping tools on the market, we do a thorough investigation into them all. What we came up with was a list of 10 that are worthy choices for the best crimping tool. Read each of the reviews carefully so you can find the one which suits your needs.
Crimping Tool Reviews
Top of the Line Crimping Tools (Priced Over $50)
When you use your crimping tools on a regular basis or you need a professional job done, it’s best to invest in the best crimping tool priced over $50. These offer more versatility than a budget version and will have superior durability for maximum life.
1. Apollo PEX 69PTKH0015K 3/8-inch – 1-inch Multi-Head Crimp Tool Kit
Wrench changes jaws and adjusts crimping force.
If you are working on plumbing, you have just as many needs for a quality crimp tool kit as the next guy. That’s why this crimp tool kit is quite handy to have around. It features a Go/No-Go crimp gauge so you know the job is done right. You can easily check the crimps after compression for additional assurances.
In addition, it has an open end wrench and jaw that measure in 3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″ and 1″ sizes. It also allows the wrench to change jaws for adjustments to the crimping force.
What’s important to note is that it can be difficult to get into cramped corners with this tool. That’s because the arms require almost a 180-degree opening to fit around the pex with a crimp ring. To alleviate this issue, simply use a slip fitting instead.
If you want to line the crimp ring, it helps to rest one of the Apollo’s jaws on the ring itself while you close the arms. Once the arms have the right amount of tension on them, the ring won’t move.
For more information on the Apollo line of crimping tools, there is a handy video to watch:
What Customers Say:
Many customers exclaimed about the versatility of this unit when working with pipes. They all agree, for the price, it was a well-stocked kit. One user said, “I have to say this is one of the most useful tools in my arsenal.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 2.1 lbs.
- Crimp sizes: 3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″ and 1″
- Warranty: No information given
- Go/No-Go crimp gauge
- Adjustable to work with measures in 3/8″, 1/2″, 3/4″ and 1″ sizes
- Easily change jaws for adjustments
- Complete kit
- Durable
- Hard to get into tight places
- Heavy
2. SharkBite 23251 PEX Crimping Tool, 1/2-Inch and 3/4-Inch for PEX Pipe, PEX Fittings and Copper Crimp Rings
Go/No-Go Gauge and instructions included to ensure proper connection
When you need the best crimping tool for plumbing applications, it’s wise to take a look at this option from SharkBite. What is great about this option is that there are no tools required when you need to make a size change. That means you can get your work done quicker than ever before.
This set is factory calibrated to ASTM F1807 and it is to be used with all PEX fittings, brass or poly. Just like the previous option, you have the Go-No-Go Gauge to make sure that the job was done right. There are also instructions available to ensure that you have a proper connection between the pipes.
This crimper has a rugged steel construction to ensure maximum durability. There are also no loose components, so you never have to worry about losing anything. It’s also important to note that this tool comes with a limited 2-year warranty. It’s nice to see companies offer such long warranties, which offers some additional peace of mind.
This is one of the best options if you are using it in conjunction with PEX tubing and copper crimp rings. If you want to see a video review of this crimping tool instead, check out this video:
What Customers Say:
The applications with this crimping tool are endless, in fact, one customer stated, “Used this for the first time today, and for RVing for over 20 years now and being a DIY guy, I wish I had this long ago. Installed a new toilet in the RV and instead of adding pieces to make up measurement distance, I installed a new length of PEX and no leaks.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 3 lbs.
- Crimp sizes: 1/2″, 3/4
- Warranty: 2-year limited
- No tools for size change
- Adjustable to work 1/2″, 3/4” sizes
- Rugged steel construction
- 2-year warranty
- Has a Go-No-Go Gauge
- Comes loose easily
- Heavy
3. Astro 9477 Professional Quick Interchangeable Ratchet Crimping Tool Set, 7-Piece
Time saving tools allows faster crimping of terminals and wire. Crimper is easily operated by either left or right hand
This complete tool set comes with the F and C jaw types. These automotive-focused wide jaw variety set also comes with ergonomically designed steel frame handles. With the contoured rubber grips, you’ll find that your hands don’t get tired, even after hours of automotive repair.
They are also helpful in the aftermarket wiring industry. With the interchangeable jaws being precisely designed in Germany, you know they are of top-notch quality. In addition, the produce a consistent, reliable grip use after use.
You can use this set of crimpers for Molex connectors, insulated terminals, barrel connectors, butt-splices and non-insulated terminals as well. It also works with a wide range of connections of AWG. In one easy movement, you can achieve a double crimp. Choose either to use it for a single crimp or crimp both the insulation and wire contact at the same time.
If all the other features aren’t enough, this crimping tool also has an adjustable ratcheting tension design. You simply ratchet it to the desired tension and then release. If the crimp is too tight or loose, just customize with the adjustment cog. It also doesn’t matter if you are right handed or left handed, this tool will work just as well.
If you would like to see an unboxing of this crimping tool, be sure to check this video:
What Customers Say:
Many customers found the quality to be exceptional with this kit. One user wrote, “Works great and is well built. I’ve used it to crimp all sorts of things without any issues at all. Although not mentioned in the ad, the A Jaw works with both standard and double crimp connectors. I use it a lot with 22 AWG double crimp connectors.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 2.9 lbs.
- Crimp sizes: various
- Warranty: 1 year
- Complete set
- Contoured rubber grips
- Easily achieve a double crimp
- Features adjustable ratcheting tension design
- Works right or left-handed
- Not enough information for the beginner user
- Heavy
4. Platinum Tools 100054C Clamshell EZ-RJ PRO HD Crimp Tool
Ratcheted, high leverage and stable platform for consistent, repeatable terminations
This crimp tool from Platinum Tools was designed for a professional installer. It provides a high-leverage ratcheting movement on a stable platform to deliver the most consistent repeatable terminations possible.
This heavy-duty tool is a great solution when you are working with the larger, high-performance OD cables. These are normally tough to terminate because of the thicker, harder insulation, larger gauges and pair separating splines. Each termination you make with this set will meet FCC specifications.
This tool is compatible with all EZ-RJ45 and EZ-RJ12/11 connectors plus standard modular plugs other than AMP. The zero flex frame prevents unnecessary torque loss while crimping. In addition, the tool steel die head assembly offers a 360-degree support for the connector during the crimping action.
It is easy to create flush, clean trim on your conductors with this tool. The built-in cutter and stripper is geared for use with flat and round cables, so you don’t need to purchase additional tools. Platinum Tools also offers a patented crimp and trim system that no one else has.
On top of that, there is a laser marked with wiring guide to offer proper wire sequence. You can also add on strain relief for an additional charge. This helps to maintain bend radiuses which are required for standards compliance. They also create a professional termination that prolongs the life of the patch cord.
In comparison to some other crimpers on the market, this one is lightweight at just one pound. That makes it easy to hold, even after a full day’s work.
We encourage you to check out this crimper in action:
What Customers Say:
Many people were leery about the price at first but realized what a fabulous decision they made. Check out what one customer thought, “Amazing!!!! I have a Klein crimper which I have been using and getting mixed results. I was trying to finish a video surveillance installation with cat six cable and could not get a good signal, I switched to the platinum crimper with the pass-through platinum crimp plugs, and every single crimp was a successful one!!!!”
Specifications:
- Weight: 1 lb.
- Crimp sizes: EZ-RJ45 and EZ-RJ12/11 connectors
- Warranty: unknown
- Provides a high-leverage ratcheting movement
- Heavy-duty materials
- Offers 360-degree support
- Built-in cutter and splitter
- Lightweight
- Adjustability can be troublesome
- Expensive
Moderately Priced Crimping Tools (Priced Between $20 and $50)
For the average home user, the top of the line tools aren’t always needed. With that said, it’s still important to get the best crimping tool that your budget will allow for. That’s why we picked out these moderately-priced options for your review.
1. Klein Tools VDV226-011-SEN Ratcheting Modular Crimper/Stripper/Cutter
Fast, reliable crimp tool with steel body for durability with ergonomic comfort grips
This crimper is made from a steel construction with a black oxide finish. This provides the end user with maximum durability and high performance feel. With this crimper, you can expect a fast and accurate crimping action. You can use this for both data and voice applications.
It’s equipped for 4, 6, and 8 position modular connectors that use the RJ22, RJ11/12 and RJ45 connectors. This makes it quite versatile and meets all your needs with one tool.
In addition, the ratcheting design keeps the connector from getting released prior to full compression, so you have greater control over your job. This full-cycle ratchet mechanism creates a non-slip environment while crimping your materials.
It also has a comfortable grip designed to reduce fatigue when working on multiple tasks back to back. Unlike many other tools, this crimper is compact, measuring just 7.5-inches long plus 4-inches wide. This helps you to reach those tight areas when you need to.
It’s also lightweight making it easier to hold and store when it’s not in use. You can easily cut and strip your wires with this tool, so it’s like having two for the price of one.
The ratchet safety release and blade guard work together to keep you protected at all times. You’ll find it useful for preparation, connection and testing of network, CATV, phone, satellite, home theater, and security applications.
Klein Tools published a video that shows this crimper in action:
What Customers Say:
The majority of people felt this was a top of the line crimper at a reasonable price point. Read what one customer says, “This tool does an excellent job of crimping 4, 6, or 8 pin modular connectors. It provides good leverage, and the ratchet feature prevents the connector from slipping out until the crimp is complete.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 11.4 ounces
- Crimp sizes: 4, 6, and 8 position modular connectors
- Warranty: unknown
- Steel construction for durability
- Fast and accurate crimping action
- Compact
- Comfortable
- Lightweight
- Striping can be difficult
- Ratcheting action is tricky
2. Fluke Networks 11212530 Modular Crimper
Crimps 8-position RJ-45 connectors and 4- and 6-position RJ-11 and RJ-12 connectors
For another mid-range option as the best crimping tool, we have this version from Fluke Networks. In comparison to the Klein Tools model, this one seems to work better with the heavier and thinner cables. It crimps 8 positions for the RJ45 connectors, 6 positions with an RJ12 connector and 4 positions for RJ11 connections.
Included with this is an embedded flat cable stripper and cutter to make wire processing even easier without switching tools. Since the connectors slide in and out with ease, you have an efficient and fast method of crimping both cables and connectors.
With this ratchet system, you have extra protection from wire slippage while crimping. Just like many of the other options, this crimper also features a steel construction which is essential if you want the tool to have a long life. If you want to reach into tight places, this is a great tool for you considering it’s only 11.8-inches long and smaller than 6-inches wide.
What we aren’t so fond of is that the tool only comes with a 30-day warranty. This is quite minimal considering it is on the higher end of the price range. We wish the company would’ve extended a longer warranty because overall the tool is top-notch.
What Customers Say:
People can’t seem to get enough of this crimping tool. Check out what one user wrote. “The connectors slide in and out easily, the operation is smooth, and I haven’t had a single connection that needed to be re-crimped. This thing does exactly what you need it to, nothing more and nothing less.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 12.8 ounces
- Crimp sizes: 4, 6, and 8 position modular connectors
- Warranty: 30-day
- Works great with heavy and thin cable
- Easy to use ratchet system
- Steel construction for durability
- Lightweight
- Compact, easy to hold design
- Only has a 30-day warranty
- The locking mechanism can be tricky
Budget-Friendly Crimping Tools (Priced Under $20)
Let’s be honest; sometimes you need the best crimping tool but you can’t afford to pay top dollar. This list of budget-friendly options is great in their own way and will certainly suffice for the occasional project. Why spend more when you don’t have to?
1. Etekcity Multifunctional Coax Compression Connector Adjustable Tool
Rugged design and anti-rust coating for years of heavy use
Heading up our best crimping tool list under $20 is this popular option from Etekcity. It’s the perfect choice for customizing coax cables to the length you need without investing a lot of money. It also saves you time from researching countless brands to find a reliable model.
This crimping tool offers three different adapters to help you get the job right. In addition, there is a built-in cable cutter so you don’t need to purchase multiple tools. You’ll find this crimper is compatible with most connectors because it crimps F, BNC and RCA connectors with no issue.
If you’ve never used a crimping tool before, the company even put a handy diagram on the back of the package showing you how to use it. The design is rugged, so you know it will be durable. It also features an anti-rust coating so it can stand up to heavy use.
The double spring design on this crimper gives it additional elasticity while the ease of adjustability makes it a breeze for anyone to use. The only downside to this model is the short, three-month warranty, but for the price, we couldn’t have expected much more.
Learn more about Etekcity’s locking mechanism with their helpful video:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C–36F5iuNs&feature=youtu.be
What Customers Say:
When looking for a budget-friendly crimping tool, this one seems to be a solid choice. Many people find it’s perfect for the occasional project. In fact, one user wrote, “it’s the least expensive coax compression tool I could find. If you’re only going to use it occasionally, then it’s a fine tool.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 15.8 ounces
- Crimp sizes: F, BNC, RCA for RG 58, RG 59, RG6
- Warranty: 90-day
- Low cost
- Rust-proof coating
- Rugged design
- Double spring design
- Built-in cable cutter
- Only has a 90-day warranty
- Not designed for ongoing, professional use
2. New RJ45 CAT5 Network Lan Cable Crimper Pliers Tools
For network installations
No one said finding the best crimping tool at the lowest price was going to be glamorous and it couldn’t be any truer with this pair. You are going to get the bare-bones basic model of crimping tools out there, but it will get the job done and keep some cash in your pocket. When you are operating on a budget, that’s what’s most important anyway.
This crimping tool does maintain a solid reputation with its users, so well-worth the tiny investment if you have a small project to complete. This set will only handle CAT5 cable, so unless you are an IT professional or doing something with your home network, this set won’t help you much.
In all honesty, if you are working with the CAT-5 cables in your home, you probably won’t need to do it again for a while, so this is probably all you’ll need. It just doesn’t make sense to pay more for something you might only use once or twice.
With that said, if you need something for regular, ongoing use, this probably won’t be the pair that’s right for you. They don’t feature the durability and additional comforts that the higher priced models do.
The item description does note that this crimper weighs four pounds, so it is also much heavier than anything else previously reviewed.
What Customers Say:
What can people really say when it comes to such a low-price tool? Most people are quite pleased that they saved money. In fact, one user wrote, “Home Depot wanted $30-$40 for their equivalent and I only plan on using them a few times, so this is perfect.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 4 lbs
- Crimp sizes: CAT-5
- Warranty: none
- Low cost
- Has a strong reputation with customers
- Geared toward CAT-5 cables
- Ideal for occasional usage
- Not designed for heavy usage
- Heavier than most options
3. Dual-Modular Network Crimping Tool – RJ45/RJ12/RJ11 – Cutter/Stripper
Built in wire cutter and stripper with safety bar - see images
Here’s another option to consider when you are looking for the best crimping tool on a budget. This set of crimpers is great for the home do-it-yourselfer or a beginning professional. They even have strippers and cutters built right into the tool.
Of course, they do lack the build quality of a more expensive pair of crimpers, but for the price, you really can’t beat them. They are set up to handle most any network cable, which is different from a majority of lower priced models.
This set of crimpers is capable of handling RJ45, RJ11 and RJ12 plugs. They even offer some comfortable contour grips to keep your hands relaxed during use. The lightweight steel construction means you never get tired, even after crimping numerous wires.
As with the other low-cost options, there is no warranty to speak of. For the price, I am not sure it would be worth the hassle of having them warrantied anyway.
What Customers Say:
Most people have been blown away by the quality of this crimper for the price. Read what one customer had to say. “Given the price, was pleasantly surprised to find this item to be much better than I expected. I tried it out by repairing two telephone cords. Although I’ve used a modular crimper at work, I read the instructions on the back of the package, and found them to be straight-forward. I had used a ratcheting crimper for RS232, and thought I’d try it for this, and it worked really well.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 9.9 ounces
- Crimp sizes: network cables with RJ45, RJ11 and RJ12 plugs
- Warranty: none
- Low cost
- Stripper and cutter built-in
- Handles most network cables
- Lightweight steel construction
- Comfortable contour grips
- Not designed for heavy usage
- No warranty
4. TRENDnet 8P/RJ-45 and 6P/RJ-12, RJ-11 Crimp, Cut, and Strip Tool, TC-CT68
For Any Ethernet or Telephone Cable
This TRENDnet option is clearly the winner when it comes to the best crimping tool under $20. The ratings far surpass any of the other budget options, so you know it’s a good pick. They are simple enough for even a beginner to use.
With that said, they can still handle quite a few connections, despite their low cost. It works well for Ethernet or telephone cables so that you can tackle most any home improvement project.
In addition, the easy-to-use handles are comfortable, even if you have to run lots of cables in a day. They are also constructed from steel which gives them superior durability to some of the other low-cost options.
If you are working in tight areas, you’ll especially love the compact design. They aren’t just for the home user, but also the new professional who plans to crimp for their job. Instead of investing a lot of money, it makes sense to try this brand first.
Not only are they capable of crimping, but they also cut and strip the cable. You can easily create cable for both 6 and 8-position modular plugs. If all of that isn’t enough, how about the 1-year warranty and toll-free tech support for customers. If you run into a jam, it’s nice to know you have somebody willing to help you out – all for a super low price.
If you want to see a complete unboxing of this crimping tool, watch this YouTube video:
What Customers Say:
Many people are amazed that you can purchase a tool which works flawlessly without spending a lot of money. Listen to this one review, “I was adding network jacks throughout my house and needed this to punch down the Cat 6 cable in the jacks and the patch panel. It worked great and only took a few minutes to get comfortable using. It held up fine and did its job perfectly, considering I had to use it more than 100 times.”
Specifications:
- Weight: 11.2 ounces
- Crimp sizes: 6 and 8-position modular plugs
- Warranty: 1-year plus toll-free tech support
- Budget-friendly option
- Stripper and cutter built-in
- Compact design for tight areas
- Lightweight steel construction
- Exceptional 1-year warranty plus toll-free tech support
- Instructions included are vague
- The locking mechanism isn’t as good as an expensive model
Best Crimping Tool Buying Guide
Before you can find the best crimping tool, you need to know what you’re looking for. There are several components which make a decent crimper. Let’s look at each a little bit closer.
Crimp Size
In most cases, crimping tools offer several slot sizes. This gives you the chance to perform numerous crimping tasks. Common crimping positions service sizes 4, 6 and 8 position modular connectors. Some of the more common crimpers that cover larger ranges of sizes include the RJ11, RJ12 and also the RJ45.
Wire gauges go up to 50. That’s a tiny wire size. The lower the numbers get, the larger the wires are. When you use a crimper that works on a range, you have more versatility than if you purchase a single-size crimping tool.
It’s important to note that there are also specific crimping tools designed just for plumbing applications. If this is what you need, you’ll want to be careful not to get a tool that’s designed for wiring.
Full Cycle Ratchet Mechanism
This feature prevents you from releasing the connector before a full compression occurred. This ensures that your wires never slip from their place or end up crimped partially while in place. With the ratchet mechanism, there is also normally a safety release to keep your handles locked in place until you release the safety. This ensures your crimp was completed fully before the handle is released. This feature becomes most valuable and useful as your wire sizes get larger.
Ergonomic Design
When you use handheld crimpers, you want an ergonomic design for the tool. The handle should provide you with a comfortable grip to ensure your hands never tire. With the best crimping tool, you’ll be able to maintain a firm grip without adding additional stress to your hand.
Blade Guard
With a proper blade guard, you protect yourself from accidental injury. It’s the safest and most secure way to strip wires, so it’s worth the investment.
Warranty
Always keep your eye on the warranty information when looking for the best crimping tool. If the company does offer a warranty, you’ll want to know the terms and conditions. While you might never need to use it, there is peace of mind knowing a company offers some sort of guarantee.
Price
Various crimpers are all going to come with a different price tag. Normally, the more you are willing to invest in a good pair of crimpers, the better the performance will be. Choosing a well-known brand is often your best bet if you want the tool to last for many years.
In my opinion, crimpers aren’t generally expensive to begin with, so why not invest a few extra dollars and get the best.
Volume
When choosing the best crimping tool, it’s important to consider the volume of your tasks. If you are consistently using a crimper, then you’ll want to look for automatic tooling like a pneumatic press or hydraulic model.
If you are occasionally performing crimping duties such as in a repair shop, then a multi-purpose unit with affordable pricing is your best option.
Purpose of Using a Crimping Tool
Before you decide to purchase the best crimping tool, it makes sense to understand why you would need one in the first place. What does a crimping tool do? It can strip, cut plus join connectors to various cables. They are also used in plumbing applications for connecting pipes.
If you work with computers, plumbing, electronics or network cables, you’ll most likely need the best crimping tool at some point in your career. They are also helpful for homeowners to keep on hand for a variety of household tasks.
How to Use Crimpers
Some people assert that you should only use factory cables. Maybe it’s because CAT-5 and CAT-6 cables often get pulled in and out. Over time, it leads to mechanical wear on the wires and you will probably have something break. When using handmade cables, this tends to happen more frequently.
With that said, having the best crimping tool helps you to ensure a job well done. Yes, it’s a larger investment up front, but little errors often lead to bigger, more expensive issues, especially when working in the commercial setting. You don’t want more problems to arise later down the road.
It’s often recommended that you also invest in a good cable tester to ensure the job is done professionally.
Here are the steps to using your crimpers for wiring applications:
- Strip back the outer layer of your cable from its spool. You should see four different sets of wires that are twisted inside.
- Straighten them out and untwist the ends.
- Moving from the right to the left, place them into pairs or orange, green, blue and brown. The extra wire in each pair should be placed directly next to the others.
- Strip your wires in short increments so they are as long as the connector you wish to install.
- Put them in the connector, ensuring that they reach the end.
- Close off the crimp around them.
- You now have a working, functional cable!
As a beginner, you’ll want to read through your operating manual. It’s imperative that you have the skills to do proper crimping, but it’s even more important to use the best crimping tool you can.
If you learn easier from watching videos, you might find this one is helpful – https://youtu.be/z-YCFIhGhHs
Best Crimping Tool Care and Safety
Before you start using your best crimping tool, it’s important that you understand how to care for it and maintain it for a long life. In addition, you want to remain safe at all times.
Here are a few safety precautions to start you off and protect you from harm:
- Perform all of your work on a stable surface.
- Never work in areas with poor lighting. You need a clear line of sight between the material to crimp and your tool.
- Keep your fingers clear from the top of your crimper whenever you apply pressure to a material.
- Consider wearing a pair of gloves for additional protection.
- Don’t use the crimping tool for a job it’s not intended for.
Here are a few maintenance tips to keep your tool in optimal shape for many years of use:
- Don’t allow your tool to remain outside where it’s subject to weather damage.
- If the crimping tool sticks or becomes rusted, discontinue using it.
- After each use, clean the tool thoroughly to eliminate any moisture and prevent future rust.
Conclusion
Now that you understand the importance of investing in the best crimping tool, it’s time for you to get working. Strip and connect wires together with ease as you learn the ins and outs of this handy contraption. You are sure to find plenty of things that need to be crimped once you get your hands on a new pair of tools. Thankfully, you’ll be able to do it all with more efficiency than ever before. Remember to invest in a high-quality pair to ensure that your jobs are all well done.
