The Best Stapler

Buying Guide

Whether you need to attach a couple of pages of documents together or want to join papers together for a craft project, using a stapler offers a faster and more secure way to do the job than using paper clips. This standard home and office tool allows you to punch one staple at a time, is easy to reload and works well with a staple remover in case you need to disconnect the papers later. You can also use a stapler for tacking items.

When shopping for a stapler, you’ll need to decide whether you want a manual or electric version. A manual stapler will require some effort to press down but is often lightweight and portable, plus it gives you the flexibility to use it even without power. On the other hand, an electric stapler gets rid of the effort required and can often handle larger paper qualities, but you’ll need to be near an outlet or have batteries handy to use it.

While electric staplers often can handle heavy-duty jobs with little effort, results will vary with manual staplers. Some can handle as little as 10 pages, while others may support 50 or more. So you’ll need to think about your intended use. Heavy-duty manual staplers do exist for tougher jobs when you need the flexibility of not needing power.

Many electric staplers are larger models designed to sit on a desk, but you can find manual staplers in a wider variety of sizes and use styles. Larger desktop staplers also have tiny cousins: mini staplers that can fit in a pencil pouch, as well as handheld staplers with a special grip.

When buying a manual stapler, you’ll particularly want to pay attention to how ergonomic the tool is so that you don’t strain your hand. Since electric staplers tend to jam less, you might opt for that type, or at least seek a manual stapler with anti-jam technology for better results. You can find other stapler features like a built-in stapler remover or effortless technology as well.

• To prevent damaging your stapler or dealing with a jam, always check the maximum number of papers your stapler can handle. You’ll also want to make sure you have them all in order and in the right orientation to avoid needing to remove the staples and redo the process later.
• If you do end up with a staple jammed, you can use tweezers or scissors to pull the stuck staple out of your stapler.
• While you can check your stapler’s instructions for certainty, refilling the staples often just requires opening the top of the device, pushing back a spring and then inserting the staples.
• When shopping for replacement staples, always check for the right size. Most desktop staplers will use standard-sized staples that you’ll find widely available in different quantities. However, mini staplers often use a smaller version that may be harder to find.
• If your stapler seems stuck, the problem can range from having inserted the wrong type of staples to having something stuck inside the device.
• Be very careful and keep your fingers away from the part where the staples come out. If you need to work on unjamming an electric stapler, you’ll also want to disconnect the power.
• Unless your stapler’s instructions describe a capability for handling heavier materials, avoid using it to stapler anything heavier than standard paper.
• Alongside standalone staplers, you can find stapler kits that come with handy accessories like staple removers and extra staples. Purchasing one of these packages might help you save money versus buying the items separately and can offer the convenience of having everything you might need at once.