Buying Guide for the Best Electric Staplers
When choosing an electric stapler, it's important to think about where and how you'll use it. Different staplers are designed for different kinds of stapling jobs, from handling occasional paperwork at home to heavy-duty binding in an office or workshop. Considering your typical usage, the types of documents you need to staple, and desired features will help you find a model that works smoothly and saves you time.Sheet CapacitySheet capacity refers to the maximum number of paper sheets that the stapler can staple together in one go. This spec is important because it ensures the stapler can handle your typical workload. Smaller capacities (up to 20 sheets) are suitable for home or occasional use, medium (20-40 sheets) for regular office tasks, and higher capacities (above 40 sheets) for heavy-duty or professional applications. Consider the volume and thickness of the documents you often staple to choose the right capacity—overestimating can save frustration if you occasionally need to staple thick stacks.
Staple Type and SizeThe staple type and size tells you what kind of staples the device requires. This is important because using the wrong staples can cause jams or weak binding. Narrow staples are enough for everyday papers, while wider, heavier-duty staples are for bigger stacks. Check if your documents are usually light or heavy—choose a stapler that supports the staple sizes that fit your needs, and ensure that compatible staples are easy to find.
Stapling SpeedStapling speed refers to how quickly the machine cycles between each staple. It's important if you expect to staple lots of items quickly or in bursts. Lower speeds are fine for personal use, but higher speeds make a real difference in busy office settings. If you'll often be stapling many documents in sequence, look for a faster machine to keep workflows efficient.
Paper Entry Depth (Throat Depth)Paper entry depth, or throat depth, is how far into the page you can insert your document before stapling. This decides how close to the edge or deep into the stack you can staple. Most standard jobs need only shallow entry, but if you want to staple booklets or need variable stapling positions, look for a model with adjustable or greater depth. Match this depth to your document requirements.
Jam Prevention and Clearing FeaturesJam prevention and easy clearing features help you avoid frustration and wasted time. Some models have anti-jam technology, while others make it simple to clear staples if a jam does occur. If frequent stapling is part of your routine, these features can save you hassle and keep your work moving smoothly. If reliability is high on your list (e.g., in a busy office), prioritize models that highlight this benefit.
Power SourceElectric staplers can be powered by batteries, plug-in AC power, or both. Battery-powered options offer portability and convenience for moving between rooms, while AC models provide continuous use without worrying about battery life. Think about where and how you'll use your stapler—if it's mostly at a desk, AC power is fine; if you need to move around or want flexibility, battery operation is useful.
Automatic vs. Manual TriggeringSome electric staplers work automatically when you insert paper, while others require you to press a button. Automatic models are faster for straight-through workflows, while manual ones let you control exactly when stapling happens. For repetitive tasks or if you're in a hurry, automatic might be preferable. If you value precise control or want to avoid accidental stapling, manual may suit you better.