On the modern market, brad nailers are one of the most popular and most purchased tools for various DIY projects. They are durable, small, precise, and versatile tools that are used in crafts, like for example, woodworking, arts, decoration, repairs, and other projects.
Most often, the best brad nailer is used for temporary material attachment. This is a very functional gadget to work with both light and solid materials without spending a lot of energy. Unlike other types of nailers with larger nails, brad nailers cope with different types of designs and materials (from fabric to wood). The most important thing is to follow instructions to ensure correct and safe operation.
Since today there is a wide range of brad nailers, I decided to help you in choosing such an electrical appliance by providing a useful guide and detailed brad nailer reviews.
Below, you will find out the latest information about the use of brad nailers and their best models of 2024.
A Quick Overview of The Best Nail Guns
No matter why you want to buy the top rated brad nailer, you will always be satisfied with the purchase. Many people buy brad nailers for decoration, repair and other home affairs. Others prefer to use brad nailers for their professional goals or hobbies. In the following piece of information, you will encounter our brief conclusions about which products are better for particular types of projects.
And the first model I pay attention to is PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA the best cordless brad nailer in 2018. This powerful, portable and multi-functional brad nail gun will provide you with high-quality work. PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA includes battery and charger, this is a wireless device that does not require additional compressors and chargers.
Speaking of the best pneumatic brad nailer, I should recommend DEWALT DWFP12231. It is one of the most convenient and budget brad nailers for today and at the same time a very powerful and productive electric tool for various purposes. Dewalt has a lot of fans because their devices are very accurate, compact and provide a long service life.
Best Pneumatic Brad Nailer Reviews
In this part of the article, I meet you with reviews of decent models of brad nailers that deserve the most attention in 2018. I have carefully studied and tested them so, that you can learn everything about their main features and functions and also choose the best 18 gauge brad nailer for your needs.
Best Overall: DEWALT DWFP12231 Pneumatic Brad Nailer Kit
DEWALT DWFP12231 is one of the best pneumatic brad nailers that I have ever had to test. This is a super-powerful, durable and high-quality power tool to realize your most desired projects. Products from Dewalt are known for their low cost, and at the same time, high performance.
In this case, DEWALT DWFP12231 is a budget, precise and convenient device that includes 500 nails and a carrying bag.
Pros
- Strong magnesium body with a convenient design.
- Durable maintenance-free motor.
- A rear exhaust to avoid pollution.
- Has an anti-slip rubber grip for a comfortable use.
- Small nose and compact size.
- Includes a tool-free adjustment for driving depth.
- Equipped with an adjustable belt hook.
- Comes with 500 1.25” nails, carrying case and manual.
- Easy to handle and simple to work with.
Cons
- You should buy an air compressor separately.
- The tool cannot be used for large projects.
Best Design: WEN 61720 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
The next brad nail is worth considering WEN 61720 18-Gauge Brad Nailer. It is a reliable and compact tool for various projects and at an affordable price, so feel free to choose this product from WEN.
This device deserves to be called best brad nailers has an excellent design to provide easy and comfortable handling. The weight of this device is only 3 pounds, it is made of a cast-aluminum material, has a nail adjustment wheel, a rubber-grip handle, and a mechanism to prevent accidental misfires.
In addition, WEN 61720 comes with a pneumatic oil, two wrenches, and a custom carrying bag at a ridiculously cheap price! So, this is perhaps one of the most balanced brad nailers I’ve ever tested.
Pros
- A light, compact and user-friendly device.
- Available at an affordable price.
- Has a depth of drive adjustment.
- Includes a rubber-grip handle.
- Shoots brads from 3/4 to 2 inches.
- Equipped with a jam clearing mechanism.
- Comes with some good accessories.
Cons
- Needs an anti-dry fire mechanism.
- Lacks a non-marring nose tip.
Best Precise Brad Nailer: BOSTITCH BTFP12233 Brad Nailer Kit
The next best brad nailer that deserves your attention is BOSTITCH BTFP12233. The first thing you want to emphasize is the high accuracy and delicacy of the work of this electric tool.
It has the narrowest nose gun, which will be useful if you planning to work with small details. In addition, it is equipped with a Smart Point technology, Dial-A-Depth control feature, a rear exhaust, and some other beneficial features.
Also, BOSTITCH BTFP12233 has a selectable trigger system to activate either a sequential or contact operation, a rear air exhaust, and a tool-free release system, which increases the comfort in working with this device.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy-to-use pneumatic brad nailer.
- Smart Point Technology for precise nailing.
- An oil-free operation.
- Smaller nose than in similar models.
- A convenient design.
- Tool-free jam release mechanism.
- Includes a belt hook, case, a manual, and sample fasteners.
- This brad nailer has a seven-year warranty and some safety features.
Cons
- Needs a bit more mobility.
- Doesn’t have any inbuilt lights.
Best Budget Brad Nailer: 18-Gauge Brad Nailer 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
Hitachi NT50AE2 is the most inexpensive brad nailer, not lagging behind in performance and efficiency from other reviewed models. It is also the most lightweight brad nail gun presented on this list with the ergonomic and safe design. Features that also worth attention are a reload indicator, a convenient elastomer grip, a bottom-loading mechanism, and a tool-free depth adjustment.
Hitachi NT50AE2 is a perfect solution when you need an affordable and powerful brad nailer at the same time. Now check out its main advantages and disadvantages below.
Pros
- Fair price and decent quality.
- A variety of applications.
- Balanced weight and convenient design.
- Accurate and compact brad nailer.
- An adjustment for continuous or intermittent firing.
- A user-friendly depth-of-drive handle.
- 360° adjustable exhaust port.
Cons
- A bit noisy.
- Does not support angle brad nailing.
Maximum Power: PORTER-CABLE BN200C Brad Nailer Kit
Another best brad nailer is PORTER-CABLE BN200C, one of the most powerful pneumatic brad nail guns in this list. This is a powerful and so easy air brad nailer that even a beginner can cope with it. PORTER-CABLE BN200C has a depth-of-drive adjustment, a decent nail magazine of 100 nails, and a rear exhaust mechanism. The kit contains, besides the device itself, 1000 nails, safety goggles, and a storage case.
What else I liked about this model, the PORTER-CABLE BN200C accepts standard 18 gauge brad 5/8 “- 2” nails, it’s very light, fast, and maintenance-free, which means it will be pleasant to work with.
Pros
- Durable die-cast aluminum body.
- Lightweight and user-friendly brad nailer.
- Has a rear exhaust.
- Tool-free jam-clearing mechanism.
- Provides oil-free operations to avoid stains.
- Comes at a reasonable price.
- Includes 1000 18-gauge 1.25 brad nails, safety glasses, and a storage case.
- Provides a satisfaction guarantee, 3-year warranty, and a free service contract.
Cons
- Not suitable for professionals.
Best Convenient Brad Nailer: Makita AF505N Brad Nailer
The last best pneumatic brad nailer on this list is Makita AF505N, one of the handiest brad nail guns for different projects. It is very easy to use, and at the same time very powerful and effective, and also has a relatively narrow nose. If you need a lightweight and easy-to-use brad nailer for your home affairs, feel free to choose Makita AF505N and I promise that you won’t regret it.
Possessing high accuracy and good performance, Makita AF505N is also equipped with a compact and wonderful design. It is convenient to hold in your hand, and it does not take up much space.
Pros
- Comfort design and lightweight.
- Effective and accurate.
- Beneficial tool-less depth adjustment.
- Simple jam-clearing mechanism.
- A rotatable tool hook.
- An extra-narrow nose to work with small details.
- Multi-directional exhaust.
Cons
- This brad nailer is a bit expensive.
- Not for private use.
Pros
- Comfort design and lightweight.
- Effective and accurate.
- Beneficial tool-less depth adjustment.
- Simple jam-clearing mechanism.
- A rotatable tool hook.
- An extra-narrow nose to work with small details.
- Multi-directional exhaust.
Cons
- This brad nailer is a bit expensive.
- Not for private use.
Best Cordless Brad Nailer Reviews
Now let’s get down to cordless brad nailer reviews. Cordless devices are easy to use and versatile thanks to the built-in battery, and they don’t need an air compressor, unlike the pneumatic brad nailers. They are already an appealing alternative to pneumatic nail guns, although they are not as powerful and reliable as pneumatic types.
Best Powerful Brad Nailer: PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA
The first and best cordless brad nail gun that I would recommend is Porter-Cable PCC790LA. If you decide that pneumatic tools are not for you, then Porter-Cable PCC790LA will become your favorite.
It’s a portable, powerful, and effective cordless brad nailer, which can compete with the popular brands of pneumatic brad nailers. Its attractive design and a durable battery make it a beneficial purchase for any projects.
PORTER-CABLE PCC790LA has all the functions necessary for high-quality, easy and safe operation. The kit includes a battery and a charger, which eliminates the need to buy any compressors, gas cartridges or hoses.
Pros
- Powerful Lithium-Ion battery provides long service life.
- Precise, effective, and compact brad nailer.
- Includes a depth adjustment.
- Inbuilt multifunctional LED lights.
- A tool-free release lever and jam release.
- Comes with the battery and charger.
Cons
- Might be quite heavy.
- Has only a sequential firing mode.
- Lacks a bump operation mode.
- Is not suitable for tight spaces.
Best Innovative Brad Nailer: Ryobi ZRP320 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
Another way to eliminate the need to use an air hose or compressor is to purchase a cordless brad nailer from Ryobi. Ryobi ZRP320 18-gauge brad nailer will be the right option when choosing between various cordless brad nail guns. It’s convenient, potent, and has many beneficial features including an Airstrike technology, the Grip-Light technology, a dry-fire lockout feature, and some actuation modes. This particular tool is best 18 gauge brad nailer thanks to its well-made design and user-friendliness too.
Pros
- The Airstrike technology, the Grip-Light technology.
- A selectable drive shift to switch different modes.
- A depth-of-drive adjustment system to protect the surface.
- Two non-marring pads.
- Includes LED lighting.
- Features a low-nail indicator to avoid dry firing.
- A belt hook.
Cons
- The tool is a bit bulky.
- Doesn’t work on every surface.
- Battery and charger are sold separately.
Best Multi-Purpose: DEWALT DCN680B 18 Gauge Brad Nailer
The DEWALT DCN680B is a popular, powerful and multifunctional brad nailer, which allows working on any surface. This battery-operated brad nailer has some necessary features and a reliable design, ideal for decorative molding, shoe molding, kitchen crown, and casing.
While testing the DEWALT DCN680B brad nailer, I’ve come to the decision that it works like professional pneumatic power tools but does not require gas, compressor, cords, and hose at the same time.
Pros
- A 20V Lithium-Ion battery.
- For small and large projects.
- Multi-purpose and portable brad nailer.
- A brushless motor for maximum durability.
- Extra small nose for accurate and precise operation.
- Equipped with LED lights.
- Has a tool-free stall release lever.
- Includes an adjustable belt hook.
Cons
- Can be quite complex for beginners.
Powerful and Expensive: DEWALT DC608K 18-Gauge Brad Nailer Kit
Another power instrument that provides effective nail placement is DEWALT DC608K 18-Gauge brad nailer. Among all the models in the presented list, this brad nailer takes an honorable first place. But do not rush to choose the cheaper options – sometimes a high price is equal to high quality, which is very important for safe operation and work with such tools.
DEWALT DC608K has such significant features as a convenient and reliable design, simple nosepiece access, and a sequential operating mode. Its main characteristics justify its price, but you should take into account its main pros and cons placed below.
Pros
- Durable and high-quality design.
- Sequential and contact operating modes.
- A contact trip lock-off.
- No jamming issues thanks to a jam-clearing mechanism.
- Inbuilt LED lights for better overall visibility.
- Includes some safety features.
- Available with a solid case, safety glasses, and one-hour charger.
Cons
- Is quite expensive
- A bit heavy brad nailer.
- Used mostly by professionals.
Best Maneuverable: Ryobi P320 Airstrike
The last cordless brad nail gun for today is Ryobi P320 or your future irreplaceable assistant in arts and crafts. I’ve analyzed the customer reviews and discovered that this powerful brad nailer comes from the future.
Ryobi P320 is compact, convenient, fast and maneuverable cordless nail gun that drives 18-gauge nails from 5/8 in. to 2 in. length. What is essential, this brad nailer lacks an integrated battery.
Pros
- Super comfort and effective brad nailer.
- Fast setup and easy maneuvering.
- A selectable drive shift for choosing the operating mode.
- Drives 60 nails per minute.
- Work surface protection adjustment.
- A dry-fire lockout feature.
- A low nail indicator.
Cons
- Battery and charger are sold separately.
Best Corded Brad Nailer Review
Corded brad nailers are almost identical to cordless nail guns, except for the obvious – the presence of wires. Both of these power instruments do not require air compressors for different operations but use an integrated battery instead. To this day, one of the best-corded brad nailers is Stanley TRE550Z, which will be discussed below.
Best Brad Nailer for woodworking: Stanley TRE550Z
Stanley TRE550Z is a unique power tool, combining functions of both electric staple and brad nailer. This multifunction little guy has an impressive driving power, a quick anti-jam mechanism, a low-brad indicator window, and a dual power lever to switch between soft and hard materials.
In addition, Stanley TRE550Z has a soft contoured grip handle for maximum convenience.
Stanley TRE550Z is the best brad nailer for woodworking because it works well on plywood, softwood, MDF, and fabrics.
Pros
- A variety of applications due to Hi/Lo adjustment.
- Accepts heavy-duty stables and brads.
- Powerful and easy-to-use brad nailer.
- A jam-clearing system.
- An ergonomic soft grip.
- An extra-long cord attached.
- Easy braid access and insertion for quick loading.
Cons
- Does not include a case/storage bag.
- A relatively short service life.
Buyers Guide
In this buyer’s guide, you will learn more about brad nailers, their main types and characteristics, functions, and usage. You will understand the basic principles of working with brad nailers and be able to make the right purchase. I advise you to discover more about their main features in order to find the right tool for yourself.
What Is Brad Nailer
Brad nailers are those durable devices that have excellent power, design, and feature set. All of them differ in design and technical characteristics, but all their features are aimed to make appropriate working conditions for the user.
Actually, brad nailers drive nails into various types of materials and can be used in special projects. These are some kinds of arts and crafts, woodworking, house decoration, repair and interior decoration, and also they are used in the workplace. Brad nailers have many applications so that they are universal and multi-purpose.
Pneumatic vs Cordless Brad Nailer
There is one classification that divides all groups of brad nailers into three separate groups. There are pneumatic nail guns, cordless, and corded brad nailers, differing from each other with certain functions. When you choose the top-quality brad nailer for yourself, you should be aware of the difference between pneumatic and cordless brad nailers.
The pneumatic brad nailer is the most powerful brad nailer, delivering only excellent results, but it won’t start working unless you purchase an air compressor to launch it. They are cheaper than electric cordless brad nailers, but you won’t regret about the purchase.
Although electric or cordless brad nailer is less powerful, it is a multifunction and maneuvering instrument that you can use for various projects of your choice. Their feature is a powerful built-in battery. They will be slightly more expensive than their pneumatic comrades, and accordingly heavier.
The Difference between Brad Nailer and Finish Nailer
As you may have guessed, there are not only different models of brad nailers, but there are also different types of those nailers. Here I will answer the main questions about the difference between brad nailers and finish nailers and provide a comparison.
The most important thing when choosing an electric tool is that the user should carefully study the instruction and the main principles of operation of a particular device. The first question that you should solve when deciding to purchase a nailer is to find out which of the two main kinds of nailers is more beneficial.
Brad nailers, first of all, are multi-functional instruments with sophisticated design and exciting features. They have thin gauge nails which make small nails holes and are useful in working with various materials. Brad nailers are so precise and accurate that they exclude the possibility to damage the materials.
Most of all, brad nailers are suitable for small projects because they have thin nails and not as much power as finish nailers.
Finish nailers drive nails of 1 to 2.5 in. long, they are often bigger than those on the brad nailers and thus leave larger holes in the wood. This means you should be very careful and concentrate when working with finish nails to properly carry out your own affairs.
Finish nailers will be more useful in large projects rather than in small ones. They hold large pieces of materials together and attach them while brad nailers cannot cope with this task.
But of course, a lot of people started to choose the best nailer for delicate work, so finish nailers will not be exactly useful for them. It is best to use this type of nailer with large pieces of material and on large working surfaces.
2” vs 2 1/8” in.: What is The Optimal Nail Length
All models of brad nailers have a nail length of either 2 “or 2 1/8” inches. It is important to understand what length of a nail is more suitable for you since there might be an inconvenient situation. For instance, 2 1/8 “in. nails are a bit longer than 2 “in. nails, and so cannot be used in many brad nailers that support the length of 2 “. Therefore, carefully consider everything in advance and then make a decision, it all depends on you.
The Right Nose Size
Another important feature of brad nailers is that each model has a different nose. If you know your purpose of buying a brad nail gun, you can decide what will be the length and thickness of the nose. Suppose you are going to do a small decoration – choose a nose thinner, and if you have a repair in the apartment or other hard work, take a brad nailer with a bigger nose.
Using Brad Nailer for Framing
The last important issue about the use of brad nailers for today is to find out whether one can use a brad nailer for framing. The answer is, of course, it’s possible. The framing nailers are the heaviest and very powerful kinds of nailers. They are commonly used for wood framing and heavy construction. All of them come well-designed, with a switchable sequential or contact trip, and a tool-free depth-drive adjustment.
Conclusion
Summarizing all of the above, I come to the conclusion that brad nailers are very worthwhile electric instruments having a wide range of applications. This is all due to their characteristics and features like compactness, durability, accuracy, precision, user-friendliness, and safety options. There are several types of brad nailers – pneumatic nailers, cordless and corded nailers.
My detailed description and comparison of these types are based on reliable and up-to-date sources of information and user feedback and are confirmed by many tests.
So, let’s once again understand which of the presented types of brad nailers are the best in their category and offer high-quality working performance.
The best pneumatic brad nailer on my list is DEWALT DWFP12231. This is a lightweight, portable, and convenient brad nailer that will definitely suit your budget and make you satisfied. They have enough power to work for various purposes.
DEWALT DWFP12231 is a durable power appliance that will help you manage all your projects. It has a strong magnesium body, a powerful motor, and includes features like a rear exhaust, an anti-slip rubber grip, and an adjustable belt hook. It’s easy to handle and work with, so you may select this particular brad nailer with no doubt.
The best cordless brad nailer that I’ve ever tested in my life was PORTER-CABLE BN200C. This multi-purpose and super-powerful brad nailer won’t leave you indifferent since it has a friendly design and some beneficial accessories. Those include 1000 nails, safety glasses, and a case.
PORTER-CABLE BN200C is very simple to launch and work with since it has an integrated battery, which does not require an air compressor or charger. This means a comfort and safe operation without any pollution and inconveniences. BN200C is made of die-cast aluminum, has a lightweight body and appealing design. It also comes at an affordable price, which is certainly great for all customers.
In the end, whatever you decide to purchase for your home or job affairs, carefully read everything in advance and take your time.