The Best Crimping Tools For Every Job, Tested and Reviewed

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A good crimping tool can help a variety of wiring projects go smoothly. That’s why we performed hours of hands-on testing with some of the top products on the market. From crimpers meant for installing nylon terminals on small cables and wires to those designed for heavy-duty battery lugs and aluminum terminals, we collected tools to fit every need and then put them to the test.

Our favorite model was the Iwiss Kit-0535 Ratcheting Crimper Tool, thanks to its versatility and ease of use. It comes with a ratcheting crimper, six swappable jaws, and a wire cutter, providing crimping, cutting, and stripping capabilities.

We spent 8 hours testing all of the following models on six different sizes of wire with a variety of terminals. Use this guide to understand the types available, which models performed well, and the factors and features to keep in mind when shopping for the best crimping tool.

1. BEST OVERALL: Iwiss Kit-0535 Ratcheting Crimper Tool
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2. RUNNER-UP: Wirefy Wire Crimper for Insulated Nylon Connectors
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3. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Titan 11477 Ratcheting Wire Terminal Crimper Tool
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4. BEST AUTOMOTIVE: TemCo Hammer Lug Crimping Tool
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5. BEST HYDRAULIC: TemCo TH0006 Hydraulic Cable Lug Crimper
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6. BEST LIGHT-DUTY: Irwin 2078309 Wire Stripper/Crimper/Cutter
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7. BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Iwiss HX-50BI Single Cable Lug Crimping Tool 
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8. ALSO CONSIDER: Klein Tools 3005CR Ratcheting Crimper Tool
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Our Top Picks

With precision and durability in mind, we researched a wide variety of wire-crimping tools before landing on these products. We then tested these top-rated tools to ensure we had the best products on the list.

Best Overall

Iwiss Kit-0535 Ratcheting Crimper Tool

See It

What We Like

• Includes a range of swappable jaws
• Features ratcheting action and a quick-release handle 
• Comes with wire strippers and a case

What We Don’t Like

• Too large to fit in tool boxes

Specs 

• Type: Handheld
• Range: 22 AWG to 2 AWG
• Terminal type: Nylon, wire ferrules, high-temperature, aluminum, and copper terminals

Anyone hunting for a do-all crimping solution will want to check out this Iwiss tool kit. It comes with a ratcheting crimper, six sets of jaws for a variety of terminal connections and wire gauges, and a set of wire strippers with cutters, allowing users to tackle just about anything.

The Iwiss crimping tools in this set feature a crimper with a ratcheting mechanism that creates double crimps in certain types of terminals, ranging from 22 AWG to 2 AWG. Once the crimpers finish the double crimp, the quick-release handle opens automatically. Also, swapping the wire-crimper jaws is simple, requiring the user to simply press the spring-loaded pins to swap them out. 

The Iwiss wire-crimping tool was our favorite during the test. It provided plenty of leverage to make crimping down on tough terminals easy. We also liked the quick-release jaws, as they easily slide in and out but stay securely in place. The grips were also comfortable in hand and nonslip, which can be a big benefit when trying to hold a wire into a connection while crimping. 

It also comes with its own case to keep things organized, which is great, as it’s too big for a tool box. (It’s 11 inches long by 8 inches wide by 2.5 inches thick.) Otherwise, it was durable, comfortable, and easy to use. We really enjoyed working with it, which easily made it our favorite pick. 

What our tester says: “The Iwiss was extremely comfortable to use. My hands never hurt during the tests, and I could apply enough force with one hand for all but the largest terminals (the 4-gauge wire required some effort).” –Tom Scalisi, Product Reviews tester and writer

Read our full review: Iwiss Kit-0535 Ratcheting Crimper Tool Review

Get the Iwiss ratcheting crimping tool at Amazon.

Runner-up

Wirefy Wire Crimper for Insulated Nylon Connectors

See It

What We Like

• Easily fits into a tool belt or box 
• Easy to apply pressure and ratchets smoothly
• Features color-coded jaws 

What We Don’t Like

• Jaws are made of multiple plates

Specs 

• Type: Handheld
• Range: 22 AWG to 10 AWG
• Terminal type: Nylon terminals

This wire-crimping tool from Wirefy has been specifically designed for rapid productivity when working with common nylon electrical terminals. The color-coded die allows for quick positioning of the crimp, and double jaws create a high-strength connection. Light pressure holds the terminal in place without the operator needing to maintain grip. A star wheel sets precise crimping pressure, while the ratchet action applies double crimps quickly and with repeatable precision. The finished crimp is then auto released once it’s double crimped.

The Wirefy crimping tool handles sizes from 22 AWG to 10 AWG. Well-cushioned, nonslip handles add comfort through long work periods. The tool also features a compact profile of 11.42 inches long by 4.69 inches wide, so users can easily store it in a tool belt or box.

Our tests showed us that the Wirefy crimp tool has a lot going for it. We liked its relatively compact size, and despite a shorter grip than some of the competitors, it was easy to apply pressure and crimp terminals. The grip was also fairly comfortable, and size identification (it’s color-coded) was a breeze. It also has one of the smoothest ratcheting motions in the test. 

We’re not huge fans of the jaws being made of multiple plates, as they’re far more likely to bend than solid jaws, but it did produce solid connections regardless. 

Get the Wirefy wire-crimping tool at Amazon or Wirefy.

Best Bang for the Buck

Titan 11477 Ratcheting Wire Terminal Crimper Tool

See It

What We Like

• Double-crimp dies make secure connections with nylon terminals
• Light action and ergonomic handles preserve hand strength
• Quick-release lever activates after double crimp is complete 
• Quick-release lever easy to operate for occasional jams 

What We Don’t Like

• Jaws are made of individual plates

Specs 

• Type: Handheld
• Range: 22 AWG to 10 AWG
• Terminal type: Nylon terminals

Folks looking to crimp on a budget will appreciate the ease of use, repeatable performance, and value of this Titan crimping tool for wire. It’s designed to handle the common insulated nylon terminal type with cable diameters from 22 AWG up to 10 AWG. The double-crimp die provides extra cable security. Jaws are color-coded for rapid identification and high productivity.

The ratcheting action provides control when tightening and can generate plenty of power, yet the action is light so hands won’t tire quickly. That’s because the ergonomic handles incorporate a quick-release lever for those occasional jams. Also, one of the handles features a quick-release mechanism that activates after double-crimping. The only drawback of this wire crimper is that the jaws are made of individual plates rather than being solid jaws, which means they’re more likely to bend or deform.

For the money, we really like Titan’s electrical crimping tool. The ratcheting action is smooth, the quick-release lever is easy to operate, and it made secure connections. The action was light enough, too, that we were able to make multiple crimps in a row without fatiguing. Also, the ease of use of the quick-release lever is a plus when the terminal needs to be reset or realigned. 

Get the Titan wire-crimping tool at Amazon, Titan, or Walmart.

Best Automotive

TemCo Hammer Lug Crimping Tool

See It

What We Like

• Can be mounted to a workbench 
• Makes it easy to handle very large wires 
• Features a universal die 

What We Don’t Like

• Not specifically designed for use with small wires

Specs 

• Type: Hammer
• Range: 8 AWG to 4/0 AWG
• Terminal type: Non-insulated battery and welding terminals

Modern automotive circuitry allows for little intervention by mechanics or engineers—mostly it’s a question of identifying the fault and replacing the board. However, battery terminals still get damaged or frayed. The TemCo hammer crimper mounts to a workbench and provides an easy-to-use, highly durable solution and a straightforward, cost-effective method for low-volume situations.

There’s no need to worry about dies fitting incorrectly since terminals simply rest in the V-shaped jaw. The crimping ram is then struck with a hammer or tightened in a bench vise. The ram is designed to accommodate wire sizes from 8 AWG up to 4/0 AWG, making the TemCo hammer lug crimper suitable for attaching heavy-duty terminals to welding equipment cables, but not small wires and terminals.

Although it’s specifically designed for use with larger wires, we tested this automotive wire crimper with terminals much smaller than suggested, and it actually did great. It was the fastest method for securing a terminal in the test, but it does need a solid work surface to operate, so it’s definitely better for a shop than a tool belt. However, it made excellent crimp connections, and it’s also fun to use as a battery cable crimper. 

What our tester says: “The TemCo hammer lug crimping tool was truly one of my favorites. I used it for battery lugs and heavy-gauge wire.” –Tom Scalisi, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the TemCo hammer lug crimping tool at Amazon or TemCo Industrial.

Best Hydraulic

TemCo TH0006 Hydraulic Cable Lug Crimper

See It

What We Like

• Features a hydraulic piston 
• Comes with 18 easy to swap dies
• Wide range with half sizes

What We Don’t Like

• Heavier than standard models

Specs 

• Type: Hydraulic
• Range: 12 AWG to 2/0 AWG
• Terminal type: Non-insulated terminals

When it comes to installing wire crimps, it doesn’t get much easier than a hydraulic model like this one from TemCo. This hydraulic cable lug crimper installs a range of terminal types on wires ranging from 12 AWG all the way to 2/0 AWG. This kit even comes with dies in half sizes for terminals that are difficult to fit. 

The TemCo tool kit can handle building wires, battery and welding cables, and smaller wires. The hydraulic piston easily closes the dies, while the spring-loaded handle returns the handle to its open position naturally. And because it’s so easy to squeeze with one hand, the user is able to hold the wire steadily in the free hand for perfectly aligned terminal connections. At 9 pounds, this crimper is heavier than most other models.

We had to break out some serious cable to test the TemCo TH0006 hydraulic cable lug crimper. We found that its dies were very easy to change and that it had plenty of power for crimping down on heavy-duty terminals. It was a little heavy in hand, which did make wire and terminal alignment a bit awkward, but the resulting connections were extremely strong. We even used it for lighter wires, like 10 wire gauge, and found the same results. Also, it comes with 18 different dies, and the dies themselves are very easy to swap.

Get the TemCo TH0006 crimping tool at Amazon or TemCo Industrial.

Best Light-Duty

Irwin 2078309 Wire Stripper/Crimper/Cutter

See It

What We Like

• Lightweight tool at 0.19 pounds
• Has several built-in capabilities
• Nonslip, comfortable grips allow for better control 

What We Don’t Like

• May not crimp heavier lugs and wires

Specs 

• Type: Handheld
• Range: 22 AWG to 10 AWG
• Terminal type: Insulated and non-insulated terminals

Folks looking for a light-duty crimper they can easily keep in their tool belt while on the job will want to consider Irwin’s wire-stripping tool. This good crimping tool has several built-in capabilities, including stripping wires between 22 AWG and 10 AWG, wire cutters, pliers, bolt cutters, and crimping tools for terminals between 22 AWG and 10 AWG.

This is a light-duty tool, as it performs single-indent, single-crimp connections. It also has thick, textured grips for nonslip control and cushioning. 

We used the Irwin crimping pliers for the entire test. We cut and stripped all of our wires with it, allowing us to assess its multifunction capabilities. It cut well (even our thick 4-gauge wire), and stripping was sufficient. It also made solid connections, but we did have to make two crimps for the best connection. However, for a tool weighing under a quarter of a pound, it had no problem crimping down on the terminals despite not having a ratcheting function. We also like the control that the nonslip grips offer.

Get the Irwin crimping tool at Amazon, Ace Hardware, Menards, or Acme Tools.

Best Heavy-Duty

Iwiss HX-50BI Single Cable Lug Crimping Tool

See It

What We Like

• Long handles apply plenty of leverage 
• Features textured, nonslip grips 
• Dies are built into the crimper 

What We Don’t Like

• Small imprinted die sizes are difficult to read

Specs 

• Type: Handheld
• Range: 8 AWG to 1/0 AWG
• Terminal type: Non-insulated copper and aluminum lugs; nonwelding terminals

Thick cables and heavy-duty lugs require more leverage and force. The Iwiss single cable lug crimping tool has what it takes, with its extended handles for leverage and nonslip grips for a sure hold while bearing down. It also comes with rotating dies for six different wire gauges: 8, 6, 4, 2, 1, and 1/0. This heavy-duty lug crimper from Iwiss is made from high-quality steel and is compatible with copper and aluminum non-insulated lugs as well as nonwelding, standard electrical wire connectors. 

It isn’t often that we’d use a cable crimper like the Iwiss single cable lug crimping tool, but we found that it made crimping heavy lugs a breeze. It has long handles that apply plenty of force to the jaws, ensuring strong connections. And despite the weight and front heaviness, the textured grips make controlling the crimper easy. 

The dies are also easy to swap, as the user simply presses down on the retaining button, spins the wheel to the correct size, and releases the button. The one issue we had with this electric cable crimping tool was identifying the different die sizes in anything less than the midday sun—the labels are hard to see.

Get the Iwiss HX-50BI crimping tool at Amazon.

Also Consider

Klein Tools 3005CR Ratcheting Crimper Tool

See It

What We Like

• Made of steel for greater durability
• Double-crimp jaws are made from solid dies 
• Features color-coded jaws 

What We Don’t Like

• Ratcheting function isn’t as smooth as other models
• Triggering the quick release takes effort

Specs 

• Type: Handheld
• Range: 22 AWG to 10 AWG
• Terminal type: Insulated terminals

The Klein Tools 3005CR is another reliable crimping option that shoppers will want to consider. This tool features steel construction, solid double-crimp jaws, and a ratcheting function that allows users to hold the terminal in place, apply pressure, readjust their hands, and continue crimping. It has three terminal bays, including 22-16 AWG, 16-14 AWG, and 12-10 AWG, which are easy to identify with the color-coded jaws.

This is a well-built tool; it felt like one of the sturdiest in the bunch with its solid double-crimp jaws that are unlikely to deform. However, we felt that the ratcheting function wasn’t as smooth as it could be, especially compared to other models. Also, toward the end of the crimping motion, we felt it needed more pressure to trigger the quick release than the other models. However, the grips were extremely comfortable (the best in the test by far), and the heavy-duty construction felt like it would last for years.

Get the Klein Tools 3005CR crimping tool at Amazon, The Home Depot, Lowes, or Acme Tools.

Jump to Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Crimping Tools

We wanted to ensure that we were suggesting only the best crimping tools. To do so, we drew upon our experience in DIY and electrical work to pick out the most important features a wire crimper tool should offer.

Once we knew what to look for, we rounded up a selection of wire-crimping tools we felt would meet our needs and tested them. We used them to install terminals on a variety of wires ranging in thickness, also known as American Wire Gauge (AWG), or simply “gauge,” for the best crimping power.

These included 18-gauge, 12-gauge, 10-gauge, and 4-gauge wires to accommodate crimping capacity. We tested the ratcheting functions, assessed how easy the tools were to manipulate, and ultimately how well they secured the wires, then tested the finished connections with a multimeter. We then compared prices, features, and accessories to determine whether they offered enough value.

What to Consider When Choosing a Crimping Tool

The mechanical actions mentioned should play a role in the choice, but several other factors must be taken into account as well. Read on for details about materials, applications, and more to help with choosing the best crimping tool for your home tool kit.

Types of Crimping Tools

Many electrical connections rely on a terminal (a bolt-down or push-fit connector) with an open end crimped onto the bare end of a wire or cable. The terminals, often simply called crimps, are made of metal and are usually shrouded in PVC or nylon. A crimping tool squeezes the crimp shut, forming a secure join between the terminal and cable to protect any electrical connection. Most crimping tools are squeezed like a pair of pliers, though they are larger and their mechanisms and jaws vary considerably. 

Cable (or wire) thickness is usually given in AWG or gauge. The crimp needs to be a corresponding size for the connection to work properly. At its thinnest, gauge can be around 0.01 inch in diameter, though 18 gauge (0.04 inch) is the thinnest in common use. By contrast, the maximum AWG, 4/0, is almost 0.5 inches across. Larger cable diameters are generally given as MCM, which is an abbreviation for “thousands of circular mils,” and can exceed 1.5 inches.

As each cable size can be connected to a variety of different terminals, no single crimping tool can handle every job. There are three basic types of crimping tools: handheld, hydraulic, and hammer.

Handheld 

Handheld crimping tools are the most common electrician’s tools. They’re usually very affordable and offer considerable versatility. These crimpers range in size; some sit easily in the palm of a hand and are designed for high-precision work (like small terminals and wire splices), and there are models more than a foot long that offer the leverage required for heavy-duty crimping.

Although many use a simple squeezing action like the best pliers do, a ratchet is often employed to provide consistent, repeatable pressure application. Jaws vary to accommodate different types and sizes of terminals. To offer increased range, some handheld crimping tools have interchangeable jaw sets. They may also incorporate wire strippers and/or small bolt cutters, making the tool multipurpose. 

Hydraulic 

While mechanized hydraulic wire-crimping tools are available for production lines, most of this type are still manually operated. They use an oil-filled cylinder actuated by a lever, thus dramatically increasing output pressure. Hydraulic crimpers are usually rated by the crimping force they can apply. This is measured in tons per square inch (anywhere from 8 to 16), underlining the terrific power they can generate.

Although frequently used in heavy-duty applications, a hydraulic crimper can handle medium-size terminals thanks to interchangeable crimping dies; these steel jaws are specially shaped to close the crimp firmly. The tools are usually supplied with a selection of these—a typical example might contain from 8 AWG (0.12 inch) to 0-250 MCM (0.68 inch).

Hydraulic crimping tools are easy to use but do require occasional maintenance. If air gets into the cylinder, for instance, it will reduce performance, so purging may be necessary. Oil seals also need to be changed periodically.

Hammer 

A hammer crimping tool is a basic, low-cost device, often making it best for those who only need a crimper occasionally. However, it is also a robust and compact tool that can put up with tough environments and is often found in automotive shops and wherever else heavy-duty crimping is required. 

A hammer crimper doesn’t use dies but instead consists of a height-adjustable, wedge-shaped ram on a sliding carriage with a V-shaped groove at the base. The crimp and cable to be connected are simply placed in this groove. 

As the name of this crimper suggests, closing the terminal is a matter of hitting the wedge with a hammer. A 2- to 4-pound sledgehammer is recommended, though any heavy hammer will do. A bench vise could also be used to press the ram onto the crimp.

Material

Crimping tools of all types are invariably made of steel. Carbon steel is often cited as offering high durability, but this can be a bit misleading. All steel is a mixture of iron and carbon, so the term “carbon steel” can apply to any of these metals. 

For increased toughness, look for high-carbon steel (a small but important difference) or hardened steel. The latter is especially appropriate in hydraulic and hammer crimping tools because of its resilience to high pressure and repeated impact.

Handheld crimping pliers usually have plastic or rubber grips on the handles for added comfort. On cheap crimping tools, these can be quite thin and prone to splitting. Better-quality models frequently have thicker padding and better ergonomics, offering a more secure grip.

Application

DIY and hobby users will often try to find a single tool for multiple applications like crimping wire connectors of all sizes. It’s perfectly understandable as it helps reduce expense, but improper fit or pressure often results in faults. There really are no “jack-of-all-trades” solutions when it comes to crimping tools, so it’s often best to be specific.

This is particularly true when dealing with specialist connectors. Fortunately, it’s not difficult to find a variety of alternatives for every application that include choices ranging from decent budget-friendly tools, like a crimper for ethernet cables, to professional options like a power crimping tool. Contractors often buy several different crimping tools, finding that the efficiency and reliability of having the right tool for the job more than makes up for the extra expense.

Crimping tool product descriptions usually offer good guidance, but those who are unsure of which one they need will want to do further research. Using the wrong type can result in poor connections that eventually lead to a breakdown.

Volume of Operation

In factories and other high-productivity situations, automated machinery is used. Such tooling isn’t typically necessary in most general electrical projects, but volume of operation (or frequency of use) is still an important consideration.

For example, a hammer crimping tool is often found in auto shops for refitting battery cables. If it’s only needed as occasionally as once a month, an inexpensive tool may offer adequate performance and good value. If the same task had to be undertaken several times a day, a hydraulic crimping tool would make more sense. These cost more, but they’re faster and require less effort.

Similarly, a basic handheld terminal crimping tool might suffice for folks who tinker with electrical devices as a hobby. A pro who does the same types of repairs on a daily basis would choose a ratcheting model so every crimp had the same pressure applied, every time. These also release automatically, increasing productivity.

Wire Gauge and Crimp Profile

Hydraulic and hammer crimpers are heavy-duty tools that can handle the largest of wire gauges. The former is limited by the die sizes available, and the latter by how much physical force can be applied. Crimp profile—the shape of the crimp before it’s compressed, which varies according to connector type—is unimportant with these tools because a limited variety is used.

With more general electrical projects, such as repairing household appliances or electronics, there are a number of different profiles. These include hex, indented, circular, B crimp, and others. The profile defines how the crimp closes around the cable, so choosing the right type of jaw is vital in providing safe and secure electrical connections. 

Most handheld crimping tools will offer a range of cable gauges and should make clear the type of profile they provide. However, that’s not always the case, so it’s always a good idea to check the specification provided by the manufacturer.

Connector Types 

Electrical crimp connectors come in dozens of different materials and styles: nylon, PVC, non-insulated, insulated, heat shrinkable, ring, spade, Faston, Lucar, Shur-Plug—the list is extensive.

Many of these descriptions have little impact on the type of crimping tool used, as they define the type of connection being made between two components. However, some types of crimping tools work better with nylon wire connectors than PVC, for example, making it important to understand the specification of the connector to select a suitable crimper. Often the manufacturer makes this easy, not just by giving clear definitions but also by color-coding the jaws for rapid visual identification.

Versatility

Although it’s a good policy to buy a crimping tool that’s as closely matched as possible to the specification of the cable size and crimps being used, these tools are not without versatility. Even basic models will handle a variety of cable and connector diameters. Better-quality tools may offer replaceable jaw sets, which allow the user to handle three or four times as many sizes and potentially different types of connectors and may also feature extras like built-in bolt cutters and wire cutters.

Wire stripping is a necessary part of any crimping operation, and some tools incorporate blades for this purpose. Crimping tool kits may extend this further with the addition of cable testers or the terminals themselves.

FAQs

Those new to crimping tools may still want more info on how to shop for and use them. Check out the answers to commonly asked questions below.

Q. What is wire crimping? 

Crimping securely attaches electrical connectors to the relevant cable. Types and sizes can vary enormously, from those on computer circuit boards to mains (the high-voltage cables that bring power to your home).

Q. Is soldering better than crimping? 

It’s not a matter of better; it’s about doing what’s appropriate for the project. Soldering is largely used for attaching wires permanently, whereas crimping is common for connections that can be disassembled. Learning how to crimp wires as well as solder is important for well-rounded DIYers and technicians.

Q. Is a specialized tool required for crimping wires?

A specialized crimping tool is required to create a secure electrical connection. Electrical wire crimpers come in many sizes and types, and the one you’ll need depends on the job.

Q. Are all wire crimping tools the same?

Not every wire crimping tool is the same. They vary by the wire gauge size they can crimp and come in three different types: handheld, hydraulic, and hammer.

Q. What are the disadvantages of crimping tools?

Aside from the cost of specialized crimping tools, the main disadvantage is potential user error. If a connection is not crimped tightly enough, it can become loose and create shorts, but if connections are crimped too tightly, the wires may become damaged.

Q. How tight should a crimp be?

You should be able to gently pull on a crimp without it coming loose. The connection should be tight but have a slight give.

Q. Do crimping tools need calibration?

Check the manufacturer’s instructions to determine if your crimping tool needs calibration. Some tools, especially professional and industrial tools that contractors use daily, must be calibrated after a certain number of crimps. 

Why Trust Bob Vila

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Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

 

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