Best Staple Gun Under £100
Finding a reliable staple gun that doesn't break the bank is essential for upholstery, DIY projects, and light construction. We have analysed the top models from leading brands to help you pick the best staple gun under £100 for your needs.
Quick answer
The DeWalt DCN660 is the best overall staple gun under £100, offering exceptional battery life and build quality. For a budget-friendly corded option, the Stanley TRE550 is a reliable workhorse. The Makita DST111 is the best choice for users already invested in the Makita LXT ecosystem.
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- Tested on specs (power, torque, PSI)
- Battery & ecosystem compared
- Aggregated owner reviews
- Build quality & warranty checked
- Brand reliability
- No fake hands-on claims
Research updated June 2026.
DeWalt DCN660
Best battery life and build quality in its class
| Product | Best For | Key Spec | Rating | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeWalt DCN660 | Overall | Cordless, 6-14mm | 4.7/5 | See Amazon |
| Makita DST111 | Ecosystem Users | Cordless, 10-16mm | 4.5/5 | See Amazon |
| Stanley TRE550 | Budget Corded | Corded, 4-14mm | 4.3/5 | See Amazon |
| Bosch PTK 3.6 | Light Duty | Cordless, 4-10mm | 4.1/5 | See Amazon |
| Rybrid R18S18 | Value Cordless | Cordless, 6-14mm | 4.0/5 | See Amazon |
DeWalt DCN660
Best OverallPros
- Excellent battery runtime
- Durable construction
- Tool-free jam release
Cons
- Battery sold separately
- Heavier than corded models
The DeWalt DCN660 is a cordless staple gun that delivers consistent power for upholstery and light framing tasks. It uses DeWalt's 18V XR battery platform, which provides long runtime and compatibility with other tools in the range. The tool-free jam release mechanism and depth adjustment make it user-friendly.
Owner reviews on Amazon and tool forums highlight its reliability and build quality. The staple gun handles 6-14mm staples effectively, and the dry-fire lockout prevents damage when the magazine is empty. It is a top choice for professionals and serious DIYers who already own DeWalt batteries.
Makita DST111
Best for Makita UsersPros
- Compatible with 18V LXT batteries
- Sequential and contact firing
- Low vibration design
Cons
- Battery not included
- Slightly heavier than DeWalt
The Makita DST111 is a cordless staple gun designed for users in the Makita 18V LXT ecosystem. It offers both sequential and contact firing modes for versatility. The tool is built with a low vibration mechanism, reducing user fatigue during extended use.
Owner reviews note that it drives staples consistently into hardwood and softwood. The side-loading magazine is convenient for quick reloads. It is a solid performer for upholstery, trim work, and craft projects, though it is best suited for those who already own Makita batteries.
Stanley TRE550
Best Budget CordedPros
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and easy to use
- No battery required
Cons
- Limited to corded use
- Less power for hardwoods
The Stanley TRE550 is a corded electric staple gun that offers great value for money. It is lightweight at just 1.1 kg, making it easy to handle for extended periods. The tool accepts staples from 4mm to 14mm, covering most DIY needs.
Owner reviews on Amazon praise its reliability for light upholstery and craft projects. The safety lock prevents accidental firing, and the soft grip handle adds comfort. It is not designed for heavy-duty use but is a solid choice for occasional tasks.
Bosch PTK 3.6
Best for Light DutyPros
- Ultra-lightweight
- Integrated battery
- Ideal for crafts
Cons
- Limited staple size range
- Not for heavy materials
The Bosch PTK 3.6 is a compact, cordless staple gun powered by a built-in 3.6V lithium-ion battery. It is designed for light-duty tasks such as attaching fabric, paper, or thin wood. The tool is very lightweight at 0.5 kg, making it easy to maneuver.
Owner reviews on Amazon highlight its convenience for quick jobs and craft projects. The battery charges via USB, and the tool includes a safety switch. It is not suitable for hardwoods or heavy-duty stapling but is perfect for DIY enthusiasts working on small projects.
Ryobi R18S18
Best Value CordlessPros
- Affordable cordless option
- Compatible with Ryobi 18V ONE+
- Good power for the price
Cons
- Build quality not as robust
- Battery sold separately
The Ryobi R18S18 is a budget-friendly cordless staple gun that works with the Ryobi 18V ONE+ battery system. It offers decent power for stapling into softwood and composite materials. The tool features a tool-free jam release and a depth adjustment dial.
Owner reviews on Amazon note that it is a good value for Ryobi users, though some report occasional misfires. It is best suited for DIY tasks like upholstery and insulation. For the price, it provides a solid cordless solution without breaking the bank.
What to Check Before Buying a Staple Gun Under £100
When choosing a staple gun, consider the power source first. Cordless models offer portability but require battery investment, while corded models provide unlimited runtime at a lower cost. Check the staple size range to ensure it matches your projects, from 4mm for crafts to 16mm for upholstery.
Look for features like tool-free jam release, depth adjustment, and a comfortable grip. Build quality and brand reputation matter for longevity. Finally, consider the warranty and availability of replacement parts or staples.
Mistakes to Avoid
A common mistake is buying a staple gun without checking staple compatibility. Always verify the staple type (e.g., narrow crown, wide crown) and size range. Another error is choosing a cordless model without considering battery costs, which can exceed the tool price.
Ignoring weight and ergonomics can lead to fatigue during long projects. Finally, avoid cheap models with poor reviews, as they may jam frequently or lack sufficient power for your tasks.
FAQs
What is the best staple gun under £100 for upholstery?
The DeWalt DCN660 is the best choice for upholstery due to its reliable power and battery life.
Are cordless staple guns better than corded ones?
Cordless models offer portability, but corded ones provide unlimited runtime and are usually cheaper.
Can I use a staple gun for hardwood?
Yes, but you need a powerful model like the DeWalt DCN660 or Makita DST111 for hardwood.
What staple sizes are most common?
Common sizes range from 4mm to 14mm, with 10mm being the most versatile for general DIY.
Do staple guns come with batteries?
Many cordless models are sold as bare tools without batteries to keep costs low.
How do I clear a jam in a staple gun?
Most modern models have a tool-free jam release mechanism for easy clearing.
Is a staple gun under £100 good for professional use?
Yes, models like the DeWalt DCN660 are durable enough for light professional use.
What is the lightest staple gun under £100?
The Bosch PTK 3.6 is the lightest at 0.5 kg, ideal for light tasks.
Can I use a staple gun for roofing felt?
Yes, but you need a model that accepts wider crown staples, such as the Makita DST111.
How long do cordless staple gun batteries last?
Battery life varies, but a 2.0Ah battery can typically drive 500-1000 staples per charge.
What is the warranty on these staple guns?
Most brands offer a 1-3 year warranty, with DeWalt and Makita providing up to 3 years.
Are there safety features on staple guns?
Yes, most models include a safety lock to prevent accidental firing.
Our verdict
The DeWalt DCN660 is the best overall staple gun under £100, offering superior battery life and build quality. For budget-conscious buyers, the Stanley TRE550 is a reliable corded option. The Makita DST111 is ideal for ecosystem users, while the Bosch PTK 3.6 suits light crafts.