Skip to content

Best Hole Punches of 2026

Harry Stack Avatar
Harry Stack

Last Updated:

Save
Share

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Hole punches are an essential tool for any office or classroom. These handy devices allow users to easily create holes in paper, making it easier to organize and store documents in binders or folders. Hole punches come in various sizes and shapes, from basic single-hole punches to more advanced models that can punch multiple holes at once. They are also available in manual and electric versions, depending on the user's needs. With their ease of use and versatility, hole punches are a must-have for any organization or individual looking to keep their paperwork in order.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Hole Punches

#TOP 1

Bostitch Office EZ Squeeze 3-Hole Punch

Bostitch Office EZ Squeeze 3-Hole Punch Cover

Bostitch Office EZ Squeeze 3-Hole Punch, 20 Sheet Capacity, Reduced Effort, No Jam Technology , Silver

The Bostitch EZ Squeeze Punch is a high-performance hole punch that requires 50% less force than traditional hole punches, thanks to its EZ Squeeze technology. This technology makes punching smooth and hassle-free, with no jams. The metal construction ensures superior durability and performance, while the integrated ruler and paper guide help with hole placement accuracy. The easy-clean chip tray makes it easy to dispose of paper scraps, and the handle lock makes storage simple. With the Bostitch EZ Squeeze Punch, you can quickly and easily punch up to 20 sheets of paper with ease and precision.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Effortless punching
  • Sturdy build quality
  • Easy-to-empty chip tray
  • Compact, space-saving design
  • Consistent, clean holes

What We Don't Like

  • Possible jamming if overloaded

What Customers Say

"I was honestly surprised by how smooth and simple it is to use this hole punch—no more struggling with stiff handles or uneven holes. The sleek design and the easy-to-empty tray make organizing papers almost fun. I love that it doesn't require much effort, even with multiple sheets. Definitely a step up from single-hole punches!"

"After using this for months, I can say it's the best hole punch I've owned. It always delivers clean, reliable results, and the EZ Squeeze feature really makes a difference—no jams, no strain. The compact size lets me store it easily, and I've had no mess thanks to the secure chip tray."

"I needed something uncomplicated for home use, and this 3-hole punch exceeded expectations. It's compact but sturdy, and the built-in ruler and paper guide help me get perfect, even holes every time. The handle lock and chip tray are thoughtful touches that keep my workspace tidy."

#TOP 2

UNCO Leather Hole Punch Tool

UNCO Leather Hole Punch Tool Cover

UNCO- Leather Hole Punch Tool, 6 Different Hole Sizes (5/64", 3/32", 7/64", 1/8", 5/32", 3/16"), Durable Hole Punch for Watch Bands, Straps, Dog Collars, Saddles, Shoes, Fabric, DIY Craft Projects

The UNCO Hole Punch Tool is an essential device for adjusting belts to your perfect fit. Crafted from durable plated steel, its sharp edge ensures clean and strong punches every time. With six different hole sizes, this tool is ideal for both home projects and commercial use. The self-opening design and rotating wheel make it easy for you to select the desired hole size, so you can quickly tackle tasks involving leather, plastic, rubber, and more. This tool combines practicality with user-friendly features, making it a great addition to any toolkit.

9.7
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy to use
  • Multiple hole sizes
  • Sturdy build quality
  • Works on thick leather
  • Cost-effective solution

What We Don't Like

  • Occasional alignment issues
  • Not sharpest for thick belts

What Customers Say

"After losing some weight, I needed to add extra holes to my belts. This punch made the job simple, with a variety of hole sizes to choose from and smooth, professional-looking results. It's definitely a money-saver compared to buying new belts, and I highly recommend it."

"I was impressed by how well this tool handled both my belts and leather straps. It's heavy-duty, the rotating wheel locks securely, and it punches clean holes without slipping. Just a heads up, you'll need a bit of hand strength for thicker leather, but overall, it's a solid, dependable product."

"I've tried other hole punches before, but this one stands out for its ease of use and sharp cutting edges. It worked perfectly on my synthetic belt, and switching between hole sizes is straightforward. For anyone needing to adjust belts or straps at home, this is a great purchase."

#TOP 3

General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool

General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool Cover

General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool - 6 Multi-Hole Sizes for Leather, Rubber, & Plastic - Hobbies & Crafts 8.5 inches

The General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool is a versatile plier-like gadget made of plated steel with 6 sharp and hollow hardened steel punches. It is designed for making holes in leather and can also be used for making round holes in canvas, denim, cloth, and cardboard. The non-clogging punch sizes range from 5/64", 3/32", 7/64", 1/8", 5/32", and 3/16", making it perfect for a home hobby or commercial use. The hand tool is self-opening, revolving, and strong yet accessible and convenient for unisex use.

9.5
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Sturdy construction
  • Easy to use
  • Works on thick leather
  • Clean hole punching
  • Versatile applications

What We Don't Like

  • Minor wheel stiffness
  • May require extra effort on thick leather

What Customers Say

"I was able to punch a new hole in my full grain leather belt with minimal effort. The tool feels very sturdy and well-made. Definitely satisfied with how it performed."

"I have arthritis in my hands and rarely use tools, but after watching the provided video, I found this punch super easy to use. It helped me add a hole to my crossbody strap without any trouble."

"Initially, I struggled with a thick leather belt, but once I started with a small punch and worked up in size, it became really quick and easy. The tool makes clean punches and is very practical."

#TOP 4

Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch

  • Amazon Basics
  • KK0330
  • Black
  • 2/3 Hole
Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch Cover

Amazon Basics 2/3 Hole Punch, Semi-Adjustable, 30 Sheet Capacity, Black

The Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch is a high-volume punching tool that can punch up to 30 sheets of standard weight paper at a time. It is ideal for pre-punching letter-size paper before adding to 3-ring binders, creating 3 perfectly spaced round-shaped holes. The punch head can be adjusted to reduce the number of punching holes as per needs, and the easy-access tray allows for conveniently removing paper confetti remnants. The handle locks in the down position for compact storage when not in use.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Heavy duty build
  • Adjustable hole placement
  • Punches through thick paper
  • Easy to use
  • Great value for price

What We Don't Like

  • Bulky size
  • Limited adjustability for some needs

What Customers Say

"I was amazed by the solid, heavy-duty construction of this hole punch. It handled multiple sheets of thick paper without any issues, and the adjustable settings made it easy to get exactly what I needed. I feel confident this will last a long time and was definitely a great investment."

"As a teacher, I find this hole punch indispensable for organizing lesson plans. It’s easy to operate, with good quality and adjustable for two or three holes. I’m glad I bought it and would recommend it to anyone needing reliable office supplies."

"I honestly didn’t expect this level of quality at such a low price. It reminds me of the well-made office tools from decades ago—sturdy, substantial, and not flimsy. After using it for a big project, I’m even more impressed by its smooth operation and durability."

#TOP 5

Bostitch EZ Squeeze Heavy Duty Hole Punch

Bostitch EZ Squeeze Heavy Duty Hole Punch Cover

Bostitch Office EZ Squeeze Heavy Duty 3 Hole Punch, 40-Sheet Capacity, Use Less Force, Perfect for Home Office School Supplies, Sleek Design, Silver

The Bostitch EZ Squeeze Punch is designed to make your hole punching tasks easier and more efficient. With its innovative EZ Squeeze technology, you’ll find that it requires 50% less force to operate, saving you energy during use. The all-metal construction ensures durability, so you can count on it for long-lasting performance. An integrated paper guide helps you achieve consistent hole placement, making your work look neat and professional. Plus, the easy-clean chip tray and rubber base pad offer stability and convenience, ensuring a tidy workspace. This punch can handle between 1 to 40 sheets, accommodating various project needs.

9.3
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Effortless punching of thick stacks
  • EZ Squeeze lever action
  • Consistent hole alignment
  • Sturdy and reliable design

What We Don't Like

  • Not adjustable for A4 paper
  • Larger than standard hole punch

What Customers Say

"I've used plenty of hole punches during my years in administration, but this is by far the sturdiest and most reliable one I've owned. The screws stay tight even when I punch through multiple sheets, and it always performs smoothly. I absolutely recommend it to anyone needing a dependable office tool."

"This puncher is a real upgrade from my old one. Punching through 40 pages is effortless, and the action feels smooth and easy on my hands. I’m genuinely impressed with the quality and how much time and frustration it saves me during busy days."

"I bought this hole punch to help organize my college binders, and it has been a game changer thanks to its heavy-duty build and comfortable squeeze mechanism. It tackles thick stacks of paper with ease and feels like it will last for years. It’s definitely worth every penny!"

#TOP 6

Officemate 2 Hole Paper Punch 90079

Officemate 2 Hole Paper Punch 90079 Cover

Standard 2 Hole Paper Punch, 30 Sheets Capacity, Black (90079)

The Officemate Paper Punch is designed for precise hole punching, making it perfect for securing documents with prong fasteners. It creates 1/4" holes in up to 30 sheets at once, which saves you time and effort when organizing paperwork. The adjustable centering gauge ensures your holes are perfectly placed every time, providing you with consistent results. Plus, the easy-to-empty chip tray allows for hassle-free cleanup, so you can focus on your work without worrying about mess.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Durable construction
  • Accurate hole alignment
  • Easy to use
  • Handles multiple sheets
  • Great value

What We Don't Like

  • Hole size not adjustable
  • Ruler guide slightly unstable

What Customers Say

"I've tried a lot of 2-hole punches in healthcare offices, and most leave a lot to be desired. With this one, I was impressed by the sturdy punching mechanism and accurate ruler guide. It easily punches a stack of pages, and for the price, it’s a solid deal. The only minor issue I noticed was the ruler guide can tilt a bit, but overall, so glad I picked this over a bigger brand."

"For my home office, I often need to punch just a few sheets at a time and this punch is simple, reliable, and gets the job done. No fuss, no frills, just practicality—exactly what I needed!"

"I bought this for organizing legal and genealogy papers and am impressed by how smoothly it works. The metal guide keeps my papers centered, and the punch seems built to last. For the cost, it’s definitely a great value."

#TOP 7

Adorox Heavy Duty Leather Hole Puncher

Adorox Heavy Duty Leather Hole Puncher Cover

Adorox Heavy Duty Belt Hole Puncher for Leather – 6 Size Revolving Leather Hole Punch Tool with Ruler & Deburring File, Perfect for Straps, Belts, DIY Leathercraft, and Repair

The Adorox Leather Hole Puncher offers six adjustable hole sizes, giving you the flexibility to create perfect holes for belts, straps, and various DIY projects. Its punch heads are made from durable high-carbon steel, ensuring they stay sharp and can easily handle thick leather and other tough materials. The ergonomic handle is designed to fit comfortably in your hand, reducing fatigue and making it easier to punch holes even during long crafting sessions. Additionally, the tool includes a built-in ruler and a deburring file, which help you measure accurately and smooth out rough edges for a clean, professional finish every time.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy to use
  • Multiple hole sizes
  • Affordable price
  • Clean hole cutting
  • Comes with ruler and rasp

What We Don't Like

  • Instructions not always included
  • Somewhat tough to punch

What Customers Say

"I've been losing weight and needed more notches in my belts. This tool was very affordable—cheaper than a single trip to the shoe store to have holes punched. It's extremely easy to use and offers multiple size options for holes."

"This isn't the absolute best leather punch I've tried, but it's a close second, especially for the price. The grip feels comfortable, and the scissor-action is stable with no wobbling. The included round file does a great job cleaning up the holes. Overall, I would recommend this tool."

"The hole puncher does exactly what it's supposed to—makes a clean hole in your belt if you use it properly. The included ruler helps with alignment, which is very handy."

#TOP 8

Swingline 2 Hole Punch (74050)

Swingline 2 Hole Punch (74050) Cover

Swingline 2 Hole Punch, 28 Sheet Capacity Hole Puncher, Paper Punch, Low Effort Comfort Handle, Alignment Guide, Black (74050)

The Swingline Comfort Handle Punch is a durable metal 2-hole punch that provides long-lasting use. Its wide, padded handle adds comfort and convenience, and can lock in a closed position for easy storage. With a powerful punch, it can cut through up to 28 sheets of paper with reduced effort required by the user. The specially engineered design requires 50% less manual force than traditional hole punches. The punch also comes with a removable non-skid tray on the base to ensure it stays in place, and an adjustable paper guide for accurate punching. This reliable and easy-to-use hole punch is a great addition to any office or workspace.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Sturdy construction
  • Clean, aligned holes
  • Comfortable handle
  • Easy paper guide
  • Effortless punching

What We Don't Like

  • Not suitable for A4 binders
  • Edge-aligner may shift

What Customers Say

"I've made this two-hole puncher a permanent fixture on my desk. The build quality is solid, and it stays stable even under pressure. I love how little effort it takes to punch through a good stack of paper, and the holes always come out perfectly aligned. The paper guide and chip tray are really convenient for keeping things neat and organized."

"For my small law office, this punch is just right. It doesn't take up much space, and the sharp mechanism makes it easy to use. Although it isn't meant for heavy-duty stacks and the edge-aligner sometimes moves, it's perfect for occasional daily use and stores away easily. The price makes it a great value for a solo office."

"I use this Swingline punch almost every day for my daycare paperwork. It never jams, and the adjustable guide keeps everything straight. The handle is super comfortable, even when I'm punching through a big stack of sheets. Definitely a smart choice for any home office."

#TOP 9

Diyife Leather Hole Puncher Set

Diyife Leather Hole Puncher Set Cover

Diyife Professional Leather Hole Puncher, Full Set Punch Tool Kits for Belt, Watch Band, Shoe, Crafting, Handbag Straps, Fabric, with Extra Punch Plates and Ruler, Multi Hole Sizes Make - Blue

The Diyife Leather Puncher offers six rotating hole sizes from 2mm to 4.5mm, letting you easily create perfect holes in materials like leather, belts, fabric, and more. This means you can quickly adjust belts or craft projects to fit just right. The ergonomic double-lever design reduces hand strain, making it comfortable to use even if you have hand issues like arthritis. You'll appreciate the complete set that includes spare punch plates, a screwdriver, and a ruler to ensure precise measurements and easy maintenance. Plus, its durable steel construction with protective coating ensures long-lasting performance and resistance to rust.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Clean hole punching
  • Multiple hole sizes
  • Easy to use
  • Heavy-duty construction
  • Includes metal ruler

What We Don't Like

  • Stiff rotating wheel

What Customers Say

"I decided to give this hole punch a try when I needed to resize several Apple Watch bands that were too big. The tool felt much sturdier than I expected for the price, and it cut through the bands like butter. The included micro ruler made it easy to mark the spot for new holes. I haven’t tried it on a leather belt yet, but I’m already thrilled to have saved four bands from being tossed out. The only tiny downside is that the wheel for changing hole sizes is a bit stiff, but that might be intentional."

"This leather hole punch was exactly what I needed to add new holes to my belt. It went through the leather effortlessly and left a clean, professional-looking result. I was worried about making a mess if I tried to do it by hand, but this tool made it look like it was done by a pro, and at a fraction of the cost."

"For the price, you just can’t beat this tool. It’s so much safer and easier than trying to punch a hole in leather with a knife or sharp object. It only takes seconds to use, and I’m glad to have it on hand for any future projects."

#TOP 10

Spurtar Steel Hollow Leather Punch Set

  • Spurtar
  • THP025412
  • Silver
  • 12 Pieces
Spurtar Steel Hollow Leather Punch Set Cover

Spurtar 12 PCS Steel Hollow Leather Punch Set 1/8''-3/4''(3-19mm) Heavy Duty Round Hole Punch Set Leather Hole Tool for Watch Cloth Belt Gaskets w/Storage Bag

Introducing the Spurtar Leather Punch Set, a versatile and durable tool designed for punching holes in various soft materials. Made of heat treated carbon steel, this punch set ensures long-life sharpness and durability. With 12 different punch sizes ranging from 1/8'' to 3/4'', you can easily create holes on gaskets, leather, canvas, plastic, vinyl, rubber, and more. The knurled bodies provide a secure grip, while the precision ground flutes and cutting edge deliver clean and precise punches. The Spurtar Leather Punch Set comes with a canvas roll pouch for easy storage and transportation, making it convenient to bring wherever you go. Upgrade your DIY projects and enjoy the convenience of this high-quality punch set.

9.0
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Affordable price
  • Wide range of sizes
  • Good for soft materials
  • Durable storage pouch
  • Clearly marked sizes

What We Don't Like

  • Requires sharpening before use
  • May not suit beginners

What Customers Say

"I was pleasantly surprised by the quality of this punch set for the price. Even though the punches weren't very sharp out of the box, after a quick sharpening with my drill and some sandpaper, they worked much better than expected for my projects."

"The set offers a great variety of sizes and comes organized in a handy pouch. I found the punches worked well for my needs, especially with soft materials. For the price, it's a solid value."

"While the punches needed some initial sharpening, I managed to get a sharp edge with a little effort. The price and quantity made this a worthwhile purchase, though I think someone without sharpening experience might find it a bit challenging."

Hole Punches Comparison Table

#TOP 1 Bostitch Office EZ Squeeze 3-Hole Punch Cover

Bostitch Office EZ Squeeze 3-Hole Punch

#TOP 2 UNCO Leather Hole Punch Tool Cover

UNCO Leather Hole Punch Tool

#TOP 3 General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool Cover

General Tools Leather Hole Punch Tool

#TOP 4 Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch Cover

Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch

#TOP 5 Bostitch EZ Squeeze Heavy Duty Hole Punch Cover

Bostitch EZ Squeeze Heavy Duty Hole Punch

#TOP 6 Officemate 2 Hole Paper Punch 90079 Cover

Officemate 2 Hole Paper Punch 90079

#TOP 7 Adorox Heavy Duty Leather Hole Puncher Cover

Adorox Heavy Duty Leather Hole Puncher

#TOP 8 Swingline 2 Hole Punch (74050) Cover

Swingline 2 Hole Punch (74050)

#TOP 9 Diyife Leather Hole Puncher Set Cover

Diyife Leather Hole Puncher Set

#TOP 10 Spurtar Steel Hollow Leather Punch Set Cover

Spurtar Steel Hollow Leather Punch Set

Brand PaperPro UNCO General Tools Amazon Basics Bostitch Officemate Adorox Swingline Diyife Spurtar
Material Paper,Metal Alloy Steel Plastic Paper Metal, Rubber Metal Electroplating Chromium Metal Plated Steel Alloy Steel
Color Gray Black Stainless Steel With Rubber Grip Black Silver Black Red+Sliver Black/Gray Blue Silver
Item Weight 1.3 Pounds 0.31 Kilograms 0.4 Pounds 3.8 Pounds 3.4 Pounds 0.52 Kilograms 0.27 Kilograms 1.3 Pounds 0.48 Kilograms 340 Grams
FTB Score
9.8
9.7
9.5
9.4
9.3
9.2
9.0
9.0
9.0
9.0
Where to Buy

Selecting the Right Hole Punches

1. The capacity of punching

This is an important factor to look out when you tend to buy any type of hole punch. Simply put, the capacity for punching means the number of sheets the puncher can use and accommodate at one time. There are some models, which can only accommodate a couple of sheets while there are others, which have the capacity to hold many papers.

If you need to process many papers at once, it is better to get a paper drill. More interestingly, you can just look for a tool, which has the ability to punch multiple sheets at one time. Also, if you are looking for high-quality, the get ready to pay for a heavy price for that specific tool.

2. Type of Punch – Manual vs. Electric

Usually, there are two types of punches, which you will find on the market. They are manual and electric. Most users these days prefer electric models because they have the ability to process many sheets in one go.

However, electric punches are pricier as compared to their counterpart “Manual” punches. In addition, electric punches are not that durable, which means that they are frustrating if you want to punch different or multiple documents most of the time. In contrast, manual punches are durable and affordable. You can also operate them easily but they have lower punching capacities.

3. Replaceable Dies

If you do not want to keep purchasing new punches every 2 or 4 months, it is important that you consider choosing the one whose dies can be replaced easily. Particularly, this is required if you are punching regularly. When the punch processes more sheets, the dies become weak and likewise worn out. However, if the punch has replaceable dies, it can save you a lot of time and money – especially in the long run.

4. Adjustable punching or cutting head

The majority of punches available on the market today have adjustable punching or cutting head. This feature is considered crucial for any modern-era hole punches. An adjustable head is a key component because it enables the user to punch different size papers.

For example, a punch can help you carry out half-letter size binders. So much so, if you are pursuing something versatile, make sure that the punch you buy has an adjustable cutting or punching head.

5. Durable Build

When it comes to the top-quality hole punch, another thing to consider is the “build” of the product. Experts say that it must be durable and strong. You need to ensure that the product works for many years so that it is a good value for your money in the long run.

The ideal punch has metallic parts as well as replaceable dies. Lastly, punches that come with plastic constructions are usually less durable than those that have metallic constructions.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What are hole punches called?

A hole punch, also known as hole puncher, or paper puncher, is an office tool that is used to create holes in sheets of paper, often for the purpose of collecting the sheets in a binder or folder.

2. What is hole punched?

Hole punching (or sometimes punch-through) is a technique in computer networking for establishing a direct connection between two parties in which one or both are behind firewalls or behind routers that use network address translation (NAT).

3. What tool is used to punch holes?

Use. Punches are used to drive fasteners such as nails and dowels, making a hole, or forming an indentation/impression of the tip on a workpiece.

4. What is a 3 hole punch?

A 3 hole punch is an office must-have and a simple way to keep all your documents organized and stable within a binder. The patent for the first hole punch dates back all the way to late 1800s, making it a classic.

Editor's Notes

During our hole punch research, we found 24 hole punch products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 252,414 customer reviews through our big data system to write the hole punches list. We found that most customers choose hole punches with an average price of $11.95.

The hole punches are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of hole punches, including PaperPro, UNCO, General Tools, Bostitch, Officemate. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Harry Stack Avatar

Harry Stack

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.