Best Crimpers of 2025

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack
Last Updated: Jan 14, 2025

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Crimpers are an essential tool for any DIY enthusiast or professional electrician. These tools are designed to crimp wires and connectors together, ensuring a secure and reliable connection. They come in a variety of sizes and styles, from handheld models to larger, more industrial-grade machines. Some crimpers are designed specifically for certain types of connectors, while others are more versatile and can be used for a range of applications. Whether you're working on a small home project or a large-scale construction job, a good set of crimpers is a must-have in your toolbox.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Klein Tools Ratcheting Wire Crimper Tool Cover #TOP 1
Klein Tools Ratcheting Wire Crimper Tool
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Klein Tools Cutting/Crimping Tool for Insulated and Non-Insulated Terminals Cover #TOP 2
Klein Tools Cutting/Crimping Tool for Insulated and Non-Insulated Terminals
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Klein Tools Modular Data Cable Crimper and Stripper Cover #TOP 3
Klein Tools Modular Data Cable Crimper and Stripper
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Crimpers

Klein Tools Ratcheting Wire Crimper Tool

3005CR
Red and Black
One Size
Klein Tools Ratcheting Wire Crimper Tool Cover
Klein Tools 3005CR Wire Crimper Tool, Ratcheting Insulated Terminal Crimper for 10 to 22 AWG Wire

The Klein Tools Ratcheting Wire Crimper Tool is a versatile tool that can crimp insulated terminals onto 10-22 AWG stranded copper wire. The adjustable compound action design puts more crimping power into each squeeze, while the built-in ratchet ensures a uniform crimp every time. With three crimping cavities in one tool, the color-coded markings make it easy to crimp different size ranges of insulated terminals. The unique cavity design provides consistent crimp from either side of the tool, and the comfort grips help reduce hand fatigue.

What We Like
Ergonomic handle design
Reliable crimping performance
Comfortable and easy to use
Durable construction
Variety of connector compatibility
What We Don't Like
Can be bulky in tight spaces
#TOP 2

Klein Tools Cutting/Crimping Tool for Insulated and Non-Insulated Terminals

1005
One Size
Klein Tools Cutting/Crimping Tool for Insulated and Non-Insulated Terminals Cover
Klein Tools 1005 Cutting / Crimping Tool for 10-22 AWG Terminals and Connectors, Made in USA, Terminal Crimper for Insulated and Non-Insulated Terminals

The Klein Tools Crimping and Cutting Tool is an essential tool for professionals who work with insulated and non-insulated terminals and connectors. It has a specially hardened wire cutter in the nose, which provides long life. The tapered nose design of this tool also makes it great for working in tight spaces. The crimping die is marked for insulated and non-insulated solderless terminals and connectors. The plastic-dipped, cushioned handles provide comfort and reduce hand fatigue. This tool is made in the USA by Klein Tools, a family-owned company with a long-standing reputation for producing quality, professional-grade hand tools.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Durable and long-lasting
Effective for cutting and crimping
Made in the USA
Value for money
What We Don't Like
Handle thickness personal preference

Klein Tools Modular Data Cable Crimper and Stripper

VDV226-110
Yellow/Black
Pack of 1
Klein Tools Modular Data Cable Crimper and Stripper Cover
Klein Tools VDV226-110 Ratcheting Modular Data Cable Crimper / Wire Stripper / Wire Cutter for RJ11/RJ12 Standard, RJ45 Pass-Thru Connectors

The Klein Tools VDV226-110 Ratcheting Modular Data Cable Crimper / Wire Stripper / Wire Cutter is an all-in-one tool for voice and data applications with Pass-Thru RJ45 connector plugs. It has a full-cycle ratchet mechanism ensuring complete connector termination and an on-tool wiring guide that helps minimize wiring errors. The versatile design cuts, strips and crimps paired-conductor cables, and it is compact and easy to use with a non-slip comfort grip. The tool is designed for use with Klein Tools pass-thru connectors and is compatible with 4, 6, and 8 position modular connectors (RJ11/RJ12 standard and RJ45 Klein Tools Pass-Thru).

What We Like
High-quality tool
Easy to use
Accurate crimping
Durable and solid feel
Includes wiring diagrams
What We Don't Like
RJ-12 feature limited
Labeling could be clearer

haisstronica 6PCS Crimping Tool Set

Silver
haisstronica 6PCS Crimping Tool Set Cover
haisstronica 6PCS Crimping Tool Set - Ratchet Wire Crimping Tool for Heat Shrink,Insulated Nylon,Non-Insulated,Ferrule Wire End,Open Barrel Terminals,Solar Connectors

The haisstronica Crimping Tool Set offers strong crimps that ensure secure connections. With six different chrome dies, you can handle various wire connectors effortlessly. The precise ratchet structure provides a comfortable grip and smooth crimping action, making your equipment more secure. The tool set includes all you need for wiring projects, eliminating the hassle of searching for separate tools. Moreover, the buyer confidence guarantee ensures your satisfaction with a money-back option and a replacement warranty.

What We Like
Low power consumption
Sturdy construction
Adjustable crimping pressure
Easy die change
Comes with extra screws
What We Don't Like
Case snaps may wear out
#TOP 5

NEIKO 02037A Compact Wire Stripper and Crimper

02037A
NEIKO 02037A Compact Wire Stripper and Crimper Cover
NEIKO 02037A Compact Wire Stripper | 4-in-1 Multi Purpose Electricians Pliers | Wire Crimper, Cutter and Gripper | 12-20 AWG Wire Service Tool | Crimps Insulated & Non-Insulated | Electrical Stripping

The NEIKO 02037A Compact Wire Stripper and Crimper is a versatile tool that combines four separate functions into one compact design. With this tool, you can strip and remove insulation, crimp insulated and bare wires, grip wire ends, and cut and twist wires. The thin cable cutter design is perfect for common wire connectors and repairs, and the solid forged alloy steel construction ensures durability. The blades and teeth are heat treated CNC machined for precision accurate and clean smooth cuts on a variety of wires and cables. This tool can handle gauges from 12 to 20 AWG, making it an excellent choice for electricians and DIY enthusiasts alike.

What We Like
Sharp and easy to use
Durable construction
Effective wire stripping
Good for automotive tasks
Versatile tool features
What We Don't Like
Can be uncomfortable during extended use
Wire cutter placement is awkward
#TOP 6

Gardner Bender Electrical Pliers, Crimper & Cutter

GS-388
1 Pack
Gardner Bender Electrical Pliers, Crimper & Cutter Cover
Gardner Bender GS-388 Electrical Pliers, Crimper & Cutter, Comfort Grip, Aluminum & Copper Wire, Hand Tool, 8 in. , Red

The Gardner Bender Electrical Pliers, Crimper & Cutter is an essential tool for every toolbox. With a high leverage design and non-slip comfort grip handle, it crimps 22-10 AWG non-insulated terminals and cuts copper and aluminum wire with ease. The tapered nose also allows for cutting in tight locations. Made with drop forged steel, this tool ensures longevity and durability. The built-in crimper eliminates the need for multiple tools, making it a must-have for making electrical wire connections.

What We Like
High-quality construction
Good value for money
Effective crimping performance
Durable and long-lasting
Comfortable grip
What We Don't Like
Wide head makes alignment difficult
#TOP 7

iWISS AP-50BI Battery Cable Crimper

AP-50BI-US
Clear
iWISS AP-50BI Battery Cable Crimper Cover
iCrimp AP-50BI Battery Cable Ring Terminal Crimper for 8, 6, 4, 2AWG Copper Cable Lugs, Heavy Duty Wire Lugs and Battery Cable Ends

The iWISS Battery Terminal Crimper is a reliable tool designed for crimping various sizes of copper and tinned eyelets. Its rotating jaw allows for easy identification of the correct die, making one-handed changes simple and efficient. You can count on the ratchet mechanism to ensure a complete crimp every time, which enhances the stability of your connections. Additionally, the comfort grip handles reduce fatigue during extended use, allowing you to work longer without discomfort. With an eccentric adjustment button, you can easily set the tool to achieve the right force for your specific needs.

What We Like
Sturdy construction
Easy to use
Professional-grade performance
Effective for battery connections
What We Don't Like
Shifting jaws under pressure
Potential deformation of terminals
#TOP 8

Thomas & Betts TBM45S Crimping Tool with Shure Stake Mechanism

TBM45S
Orange
Thomas & Betts TBM45S Crimping Tool with Shure Stake Mechanism Cover
Thomas & Betts TBM45S Crimping Tool with Shure Stake Mechanism for 8 through 2 Copper and 10 through 6 Aluminum Lugs

The Thomas & Betts TBM45S Crimping Tool is a mechanical compression tool with a Shure Stake mechanism that ensures a properly completed crimp every time. It has a color-coded die wheel that rotates into position for a proper die nest while creating a diamond-style crimp. The tool is equipped with a crimp assist foot, and its overloaded soft grip forms to any hand comfortably, creating little to no slip while creating a crimp.

What We Like
Industry standard for professionals
Easy to use
Great value for money
Comfortable handle design
Compact for tool bag
What We Don't Like
Plastic elements feel softer
#TOP 9

IRWIN VISE-GRIP Forged Crimper

2078310
Blue
IRWIN VISE-GRIP Forged Crimper Cover
IRWIN 2078310 Vise-Grip forged Wire Crimper with ProTouch Grips, 10-Inch

The IRWIN VISE-GRIP Forged Crimper, also known as the IRWIN Crimper, is a versatile tool designed for crimping insulated and non-insulated connections and terminals on 10-22 AWG wire. With its ProTouch grips, this crimper provides extra comfort and reduces hand fatigue, making it easier for you to work for extended periods of time. The durable construction of this tool, achieved using a Metal Injection Molding (MIM) process, ensures exceptional strength and performance. This IRWIN crimper meets or exceeds ANSI specifications, guaranteeing its quality and reliability. Whether you're a professional electrician or a DIY enthusiast, the IRWIN VISE-GRIP Forged Crimper is a must-have tool for your wiring projects.

What We Like
Fast delivery
Excellent crimping performance
Comfortable rubber grips
Great value for price
High build quality
What We Don't Like
Occasional uneven crimping
Somewhat awkward head design
#TOP 10

IWISS Ratchet Wire Crimping Tool Set

‎IWS-30J-Tool-Set
Orange
IWISS Ratchet Wire Crimping Tool Set Cover
iCrimp Ratchet Wire Crimping Tool Set w/ 5 Interchangeable Jaws for Insulated and Non-Insulated Terminals AWG20-2, Wire Stripper included

The IWISS Ratchet Wire Crimping Tool Set is a versatile and must-have tool for electricians and DIYers. This set includes a ratchet crimper frame with 5 interchangeable jaws, a wire stripper, and a cross screwdriver. The precision full-cycle ratchet ensures accurate and repeatable crimps, while the adjustable compound action design provides enough power for each squeeze. The casting jaws are engineered for solid crimps on insulated terminals, non-insulated terminals, and non-insulated tabs & receptacles. Additionally, the multifunctional stripper & cutter has a precisely machined stripping hole for removing AWG 20-10 wire insulation without damage. With its efficient ratchet mechanism and precise engineering, the IWISS Ratchet Wire Crimping Tool Set offers convenience and reliability for all your crimping needs.

What We Like
Easy to use ratchet mechanism
Interchangeable jaw sizes
Quality construction
Effective for various connectors
Good for DIY projects
What We Don't Like
Die identification can be difficult
No manual included
Buying Guide Image

Get the Best Crimpers

Usage

This is always the first step that you have to take to acquire an item, you have to be clear about what use you are going to give it if you are going to use it professionally or for your hobbies. This will determine what type of materials, price and quality you should have in the account.

Budget

You should spend what you really need, and with this, we mean that they don’t give dollars hard, if you want quality and a great life in a crimper, you will have to invest money, from $20 you already have very good models to consider. If, on the other hand, you only want to have a crimper for domestic or punctual use, it is not necessary to invest so much, and for $10 you have interesting alternatives.

Material

Most crimpers are made of steel since their use is not very demanding and with this material they fulfill their function, if you find carbon steel, this alloy will give you greater resistance to corrosion.

Size

The normal thing in this type of tool is that they move in size between 150-200 mm. Although we can find larger crimpers, you have to take into account what type and size of terminals you are going to regularly crimp.

Style

Crimpers generally come with a jaw with recesses of different sizes for different types of terminals, only the highest quality crimpers have interchangeable adapters.

Maintenance

Some tools need a series of care to extend their useful life and the crimpers are one of them, first, you have to follow the instructions indicated by the manufacturer but if you do not have them, here are some tips:

  • Clean it after each use.
  • Periodically check that the edge is not damaged, if it is removed, remove burrs or deformations with a file.
  • Grease the joint periodically.

There is a wide variety of pliers, designed for all types of uses, we show you the classification of the large families of pliers. The crimpers are very common tools in any toolbox of a professional, increasingly widespread among people who like to make their own repairs.

To buy this tool, you must go to an industrial hardware store specialized in supplies to large companies. Our suggestion is that if you don’t want to waste your time looking for options, buy your crimper online.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How do I know what crimper to use?

To determine the appropriate crimper to use, consider factors such as wire gauge, terminal material, and crimp profile. Crimping tools are sized based on the wire gauge they can accept, typically using American Wire Gauge (AWG). Additionally, the type of terminal being crimped is crucial, as different terminals require specific crimp profiles. Taking these factors into account will help ensure a proper and secure crimping connection.

2. Can I just use pliers to crimp?

No, pliers are not suitable for crimping wires. Pliers do not create the proper cold weld connection that a dedicated crimping tool can achieve. Using pliers for crimping may result in a poor connection, allowing air and moisture to enter and potentially causing the connection to fail. It's recommended to invest in a specialized crimping tool to achieve reliable and secure crimped connections.

Editor's Notes

During our crimper research, we found 24 crimper products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 183,814 customer reviews through our big data system to write the crimpers list. We found that most customers choose crimpers with an average price of $29.49.

The crimpers are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of crimpers, including Klein Tools, haisstronica, NEIKO, Gardner Bender, IWISS. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack owns a small hardware store, his career landed him a depth of knowledge in categories such as tools, equipment, machinery and hardware. In his spare time, he usually repairs furniture, safes and appliances, and he knows how to make simple repairs to plumbing or electrical fixtures. His hobbies also include woodworking and fishing.

Crimpers Comparison Table

#TOP1
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#TOP3
#TOP4
#TOP5
#TOP6
#TOP7
#TOP8
#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand Klein Tools Klein Tools Klein Tools haisstronica NEIKO Gardner Bender IWISS Thomas & Betts IRWIN IWISS
Color Red and Black Red Yellow/Black Silver, Blue, Yellow, Black - Red Clear Black, Orange Blue Orange, Grey
Item Weight 1.3 Pounds 12.8 Ounces 14.4 Ounces 1.17 Kilograms 0.07 Kilograms 0.65 Pounds 580 Grams - 0.32 Pounds 2.2 Pounds
Handle Material Plastic Plastic comfort grip Nylon - Aluminum, Vinyl blue, black Aluminum Metal Alloy Steel
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.1
ftb score rating icon 8.9
ftb score rating icon 8.7
ftb score rating icon 8.5
ftb score rating icon 8.4
Where to Buy