10 Best Electric Nail Guns in 2021

Hitachi NT1850DE 18V Cordless Brad Nailer

PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Cordless Brad Nailer Kit, 18GA (PCC790LA)

DEWALT DC618K XRP 18-Volt Cordless 20 Degree Angled Finish Nailer

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Electric nail guns are alternatives to pneumatic or fuel-powered nail guns. They weigh less than a pneumatic nail gun and come with or without a cord. They make use of electric current to trigger the firing pin and release the nail or staple.

Also, see:

Best Roofing Nailers in 2020

Best Cordless Framing Nailers in 2020

Best Staple Gun For Upholstery in 2020

Best Brad Nailers in 2020

TYPES OF ELECTRIC NAIL GUNS

There are two types of electric nail guns; corded and cordless electric nail guns.

Corded Electric Nail Guns

The corded electric nail guns have cords that are plugged directly to a 120-volt power outlet. They get power directly from a power source and are much lighter than other nail guns and hold smaller nails.

Cordless Electric Nail Guns

The cordless electric guns run on a lithium-ion battery that needs to be charged before it works. Although, using a battery might affect your work time, but a lot of these nail guns have batteries that can last for a very long time. They may even include a backup battery to help you save time.

BENEFITS OF AN ELECTRIC NAIL GUN

  • They weigh less than pneumatic nail guns making them easier to use and control
  • They operate quietly unlike air-powered guns which are noisy
  • They are affordable
  • They require little maintenance. Most of them are designed to be oil-free

HOW TO CHOOSE AN ELECTRIC NAIL GUN

We have listed some factors to consider when buying an electric nail gun.

CORDED OR CORDLESS: This is one very important factor to look out for when buying an electric nail gun. The corded electric nail gun is lightweight, but the cord may limit your mobility; it’s advisable to get an extension cord. On the other hand, the cordless electric nail gun provides great mobility and portability, but the battery needs to be charged. You can get a backup battery to save time.

MATERIAL AND COMFORT: Most electric nail guns are built with aluminum or galvanized steel. These materials provide durability and make the nail gun easy to handle. It is important to get a nail gun that is lightweight and has a comfortable grip so you can use it for a long time without getting strains in your hand or fatigue.

MAGAZINE STYLES: There are two types of magazine styles for an electric nail gun. There’s the straight and the coil magazine. The straight is lightweight while the coil holds more nails. It’s important to look out for the type of magazine styles you’ll need when searching for an electric nail gun. Also, make sure the angle of the magazine is the same as the nail gun.

DEPTH ADJUSTMENT: This is a very important factor to consider when choosing an electric nail gun. Different materials require different nailing depth depending on the thickness of the material. It is important to get one with an adjustable depth drive; most of them come with a dial that makes it easy to adjust the depth drive.

TRIGGER TYPE: There are two types of trigger types; the sequential and contact trigger. The sequential firing mode is much safer; it works with a finger trigger that needs to be pressed with your index finger to fire a nail. You have to be very skilled to operate this type of nail gun.

The contact firing mode, on the other hand, fires the nail as soon as the nail gun comes in contact with the wood. This mode of firing can be very unsafe as the nail gun can accidentally shoot a nail in the direction you don’t want and may cause an accident.

Most electric nail guns come with a switch that allows you to transition between the two types of trigger.

SAFETY TIPS WHEN USING AN ELECTRIC NAIL GUN

Your safety is quite important, and it should be a priority when using an electric nail gun. We’ve provided you with our top safety tips to guide and prevent injuries.

  • Go through the instructions in the manual before using the nail gun
  • It’s much safer to use the sequential trigger to avoid accidental firing
  • Wear safety gear like safety goggles that come with a side shield and a face mask to protect you from splinters
  • Keep your fingers away from the trigger when you are not driving nails
  • Make sure to place the gun firmly against the workpiece
  • Ensure that the nail gun is unplugged or switched off before clearing jams or cleaning it
  • Never assume the nail gun is empty or point it at someone

In this review, we have put together a comprehensive list of the best electric nail guns available on the market along with their key features, to guide and help you confidently pick the most suitable electric nail gun for your projects.

The Best Electric Nail Guns Are Reviewed Below

Below is a review of our top ten best electric nail gun available on the market along with their key features and Specifications.

1

Hitachi NT1850DE 18V Cordless Brad Nailer

The Hitachi NT1850DE 18V Cordless Brad Nailer is a top-quality brad nail gun. The Hitachi brand is widely known for producing quality power tools for professionals and homeowners. This brad nailer is powered by a Compact 3.0Ah Lithium-ion battery that allows the nail gun to be used for a long time in a single charge.

With a powerful 18V punch, this nailer can drive about 1,650 per battery charge using an air spring drive system. It is quite lightweight and easy to handle with one hand for a long time without getting tired. It features a brushless motor technology that improves its efficiency and durability. Its selective actuation switch transitions its firing mode between sequential mode and bump firing mode.

This nail gun is easy to handle, and it comes with safety glasses to improve safety. It has a tool-less depth of drive adjustment to control the depth of the nails driven into the material. This nail gun is well designed to suit professionals and DIY lovers.

Key Features:

  • Selective actuation switch
  • Adjustable tool-less depth of drive
  • Brushless motor technology
  • 3.0Ah Lithium-Ion battery
  • Sequential firing mode and bump fire mode

Specification:

  • Brand: Hitachi
  • Model: Hitachi NT1850DE 18V Cordless Brad Nailer
  • Dimension: 12 x 2 x 12 inches
  • Weight: 7.3 pounds
  • Power Source: Battery Powered
  • Voltage: 18 volts
Pros
  • Includes safety glasses and contractor bag
  • Easy to handle
  • Has two firing mode
  • Lightweight and portable
Cons
  • Jams occasionally

2

PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Cordless Brad Nailer Kit, 18GA (PCC790LA)

The PORTER-CABLE (PCC790LA) 20V MAX Cordless Brad Nailer is a cordless brad nail gun powered by a 1.5 Ah 20Volt MAX Lithium-ion battery. With a weight of 5.9 pounds, this nail gun is quite lightweight and easy to use. Its MAX Lithium battery lasts longer than most batteries and can drive up to 1300 nails in a single charge.

It features a tool-free release lever and a jam release to improve its efficiency and make it easy to operate. Its depth drive can be adjusted to allowing you to drive nails into your material consistently. The entire kit includes the nailer, battery, a battery charge and an integrated belt hook making it portable and easy to carry around.

This cordless brad nailer doesn’t require a compressor, hose or gas cartridges making your work stress-free. It is durable and can last for a long time with proper maintenance.

Key Features:

  • Tool-free release lever
  • Jam release
  • Depth adjustment wheel
  • 1.5 Ah 20Volt MAX Lithium-ion battery
  • Integrated belt hook

Specification:

  • Brand: PORTER-CABLE
  • Model: PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Cordless Brad Nailer Kit, 18GA (PCC790LA)
  • Dimension: 13.88 x 5 x 12 inches
  • Weight: 5.9 pounds
  • Power Source: Battery-Powered
  • Voltage: 20 volts
Pros
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Well balanced
  • Easy to use
  • Lasts long with proper maintenance
Cons
  • Recoils slightly when firing
  • Only one battery included

3

DEWALT DC618K XRP 18-Volt Cordless 20 Degree Angled Finish Nailer

The DEWALT DC618K XRP 18-Volt Cordless 20 Degree Angled Finish Nailer runs on a powerful 18V engine that allows it to work at a fast speed and produce consistent nail penetration in both soft and hard joints. It features two firing modes; a sequential firing mode that allows for precision nail placement and a bump operating firing mode that provides production speed when working on your furniture.

This nail gun is dependable and can be used on many different projects; it is made with high-quality material that preserves its durability and efficiency. It features a contact tip lock-off system that disables its trigger when it is not being used and an accessible nose piece that allows easy removal of jammed nails.

The DEWALT DC618K XRP Finish Nailer has a nail capacity magazine of about 120 nails, and its magazine us angled at 20 degrees to ensure accurate nail placement. Its top cap is impact resistant and can be removed easily for troubleshooting; it also features an LED light to improve performance when working in the dark.

Key Features:

  • Easy access nose tip
  • Sequential and bump operating mode
  • Contact trip lock-off
  • Integrated LED light
  • Impact-resistant top cap

Specification:

  • Brand: DEWALT
  • Model: DEWALT DC618K XRP 18-Volt Cordless 20 Degree Angled Finish Nailer
  • Dimension: 12.5 x 4.18 x 12.8 inches
  • Weight: 8.5 pounds
  • Power Source: Battery Powered
  • Voltage: 18 volts
Pros
  • Very powerful
  • Provides precise nail placements
  • Easy to use
  • Its nose tip makes it easy to clear jammed nails
Cons
  • Battery is heavy
  • Expensive

4

NuMax SFR2190 Pneumatic Full Round Head Framing Nailer

The NuMax SFR2190 Pneumatic Nailer is a lightweight and durable framing nail gun with a magnesium body. It features a user-friendly handle making it comfortable to hold and control.

It also features an interchangeable trigger that allows you to switch between quick-fire and single-shot function. It has an adjustable depth adjustment to drive nails into the material at the desired depth accurately.

This Nail gun is durable and ideal for both DIY lovers and professionals. Its magnesium body makes it lightweight and long lasting, making it easy to handle and control. It can be used for framing, to install subfloors, roof decking, wood fencing and sheathing.

Key Features:

  • 21 degree pneumatic framing nailer
  • Durable magnesium body
  • Interchangeable trigger
  • Depth adjustment system
  • No-mar tip

Specification:

  • Brand: NuMax
  • Model: NuMax SFR2190 Pneumatic Full Round Head Framing Nailer
  • Dimension: 5.51 x 14.17 x 20.08 inches
  • Weight: 8.58 pounds
  • Power Source: Air Powered
Pros
  • Easy to use
  • Ergonomic handle makes it comfortable to hold
  • Has interchangeable trigger
  • Multipurpose
Cons
  • Heavy
  • Jams occasionally

5

BOSTITCH 20V MAX Finish Nailer Kit, Straight, 16GA (BCN662D1)

The BOSTITCH BCN662D1 20V MAX Finish Nailer is a durable finish nail gun that drives 16 gauge finish nails with length ranging from a minimum1 1/4 inch to 2 1/2 inch maximum. It is a cordless nail gun that saves time and works to provide maximum efficiency. It is made from durable materials, making it sure to last for a long time.

It has a brushless motor design that improves its efficiency and performance. Its narrow nose is designed for a clear line of accurate nail placement and a multifunctional LED light that improves visibility when working in the dark.

This cordless finish nailer also features a tool-free jam control system that makes it easy to remove jammed nails in a short time. Its tool-free selector switch makes it easy to choose between its sequential and contact auction mode of firing to ensure faster nail firing speed.

Key Features:

  • Brushless motor and engine design
  • Drives 16 gauge finish nails
  • Narrow nose
  • Tool-free jam release
  • Tool-free selector switch

Specification:

  • Brand: BOSTITCH
  • Model: BOSTITCH 20V MAX Finish Nailer Kit, Straight, 16GA (BCN662D1)
  • Dimension: 12.3 x 11.8 x 3.7 inches
  • Weight: 5.6 pounds
  • Power Source: Battery Powered
  • Voltage: 20V
Pros
  • Lightweight and balanced
  • Easy to handle and control
  • Good battery life
  • Has multifunctional LED light to improve visibility
Cons
  • Safety switch takes time to get used to

6

Ryobi 3 Piece 18V One+ Airstrike Brad Nailer Kit

The Ryobi 3 Piece 18V One+ Airstrike Brad Nailer operates on a strong 18V lithium-ion battery and can drive 18 gauge nails with length ranging from 5/8 and 2 inches. It is a durable nail gun that features an adjustable knob on the back to adjust the air pressure. Its handle is made with a rubber over-mould making it easy to handle and convenient.

This brad nailer features a selectable nail drive system; a contact-actuated mode that allows you to drive about 60 nails in one minute and a single sequential mode that allows for precise nail placements. It also a belt clip and LED light that helps to improve visibility when working in dark corners.

Its 18V battery comes with a P117 charger that fully charges the battery in thirty minutes, delivering up to 700 nails within a single charge and an intelliport system that indicates when the battery is fully charged so you can save power. The kit features a brad nail gun, battery and charger.

Key Features:

  • Adjustable knob for air pressure control
  • Drives 18 gauge nails
  • Contact-actuated and single sequential firing mode
  • Ryobi 18V P102 battery
  • P117 charger

Specification:

  • Brand: Ryobi
  • Model: Ryobi 3 Piece 18V One+ Airstrike Brad Nailer Kit
  • Dimension: 15.8 x 12.8 x 6.9 inches
  • Weight: 9.78 pounds
  • Power Source: 18 Volt One+ Batteries
  • Voltage: 18V
Pros
  • Very powerful
  • Battery charges fast
  • The rubber handle makes it comfortable to grip and easy to handle
  • Features an adjustable knob to adjust air pressure
Cons
  • Heavy
  • Warranty may not be valid

7

Stanley TRE550Z Electric Staple/Brad Nail Gun

The Stanley TRE550Z Electric Staple/Brad Nail Gun is a heavy-duty, corded electric staple/brad nail gun powered by an 8-foot power cord. It has a unique dual power lever that is used to switch between high and low pressure for hard or soft material. It has an incredible driving power, and its cord allows for an uninterrupted supply of power while working. This nail gun is very lightweight, making it easy to use and control; it can be used for smaller furnishing or stapling projects in a short time with little or no effort.

This corded nail gun uses Stanley sharpshooter staples or brad nails of length ranging between ½ to 5/8 inches, and this means it can only handle materials with soft surfaces. Compared to other nail guns, this Stanley electric nail gun is the lightest you can find on the market.

With a weight of 1.41 pounds, it can be used strain or fatigue-free for a long time. Removing jammed nails is quite easy and saves time because of its quick jam-clear mechanism.

Key Features:

  • Heavy-duty electric staple/brad nail gun
  • Dual power lever
  • 8-foot power cord
  • Quick jam-clear mechanism

Specification:

  • Brand: Stanley
  • Model: Stanley TRE550Z Electric Staple/Brad Nail Gun
  • Dimension: 5.9 x 3 x 3.6 inches
  • Weight: 1.41 pounds
  • Power Source: Corded Electric
  • Voltage: 120 volts
Pros
  • Very lightweight and easy to control
  • Pocket friendly
  • Has two power options for soft and hard materials
  • Its flush nose tip makes it easy to use in tight corners
Cons
  • Cord may limit your mobility, especially without an extension cord
  • Prone to jams

8

Makita XNB01Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 2

The Makita XNB01Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Brad Nailer is a high-quality nail gun that runs on a powerful 5.0Ah 18V LXT Battery that drives up to 1,660 nails in a single charge. Its battery gauge indicates the battery charge level to help conserve power. You would have to purchase the battery separately as it doesn’t come with the nailer.

This brad nail gun has rubber handle making it comfortable and convenient to use for a long time. It drives 18 gauge brad nails with length ranging from 5/8 inch to 2 inches and has a magazine capacity of 110 nails. It features a switch that can be used to transition its firing mode between the sequential and contact nailing mode of operation.

It has an easy to use tool-less depth adjustment dial to regulate the depth at which the nail is fired into the material. It also features an anti-dry drive mechanism that stops the nail gun from firing blanks and damaging the material.

Key Features:

  • Dual-mode selector switch
  • Capacity magazine up to 110 nails
  • The tool-less depth adjustment dial
  • Anti-dry drive mechanism
  • Battery gauge

Specification:

  • Brand: Makita
  • Model: Makita XNB01Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless 2″ Brad Nailer
  • Dimension: 4.4 x 14.5 x 11.7 inches
  • Weight: 7.54 pounds
  • Power Source: Battery Powered
  • Voltage: 18 volts
Pros
  • Safe and easy to use
  • Has a battery gauge that indicates battery level
  • Has an extended battery life
  • Affordable
Cons
  • The battery is not included
  • Heavy

9

SENCO FinishPro 18MG 18-Gauge Brad Nailer

The SENCO FinishPro 18MG Brad Nailer is a highly durable and easy to use brad nailer. It drives 18 gauge brad nails of length ranging from 1/8 inch to 2 inches. It has a selective trigger that helps select between sequential firing for precision nailing or contact actuation firing mode. It also features an adjustable depth drive system that allows you to regulate the depth at which you fire each nail into the material.

This ultra-light brad nail gun is made with a durable material making it efficient. Its ergonomic grip design makes it easy to handle for a very long time without feeling strains or fatigue in your hands. It features a rear exhaust and is designed in a way that it doesn’t need to be oiled.

Key Features:

  • Oil-free design
  • Selective trigger
  • Adjustable depth of drive system
  • Rear exhaust

Specification:

  • Brand: SENCO
  • Model: SENCO FinishPro 18MG 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
  • Dimension: 10 x 4 x 1 inches
  • Weight: 4 pounds
  • Power Source: Corded Electric
Pros
  • Rear-end is protected to avoid damage
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight
  • Comfortable grip
Cons
  • Prone to jamming

10

CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Brad Nailer Kit, 18GA (CMCN618C1)

The CRAFTSMAN CMCN618C1 V20 Cordless Brad Nailer is a cordless brad nail gun that operates on a powerful 20V max battery that fires up to 420 nails in a single charge. It drives 18 gauge brad needles with a maximum length of 2 inches. Its fully cordless design removes the need for compressors, hose or expensive gas cartridges.

This highly durable nail gun provides precision firing and consistent firing power irrespective of the weather condition. It features a tool-free depth adjustment drive system that allows you to regulate the depth at which each nail is fired to provide a consistent result. Its tool-free jam system makes it easy to remove jammed nails quickly.

This CRAFTSMAN cordless brad nail gun also features a stall setting that improves its efficiency and makes it easy to use. It is lightweight, well balanced and comfortable to use one-handedly for a long time. It features a belt hook for easy access and storage.

Key Features:

  • V20 20V MAX Battery
  • 18 gauge brad nails
  • Tool-free depth settings
  • Tool-free jam and stall setting
  • Contoured over-molder handle

Specification:

  • Brand: CRAFTSMAN
  • Model: CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Brad Nailer Kit, 18GA (CMCN618C1)
  • Dimension: 13.37 x 4.49 x 11.49 inches
  • Weight: 7.64 pounds
  • Power Source: Cordless
  • Voltage: 20 volts
Pros
  • Has a contoured over-molder handle for a comfortable grip
  • Easy to use
  • Lightweight and well balanced
  • Has a tool-free jam system that prevents jamming
Cons
  • Does not last long

Buying Guide Questions

Below are some of the most asked questions about the use and benefits of nail guns.

Are electric nail guns any good?

Electric nail guns are very useful, especially when working with tight corners. They work on a powerful engine and fire a minimum of 400 nails when there’s a constant power supply. Most of them are lightweight and have an ergonomic design that makes them easy to control and handle.

Electric nail guns are of two types; there’s the corded electric nail gun that needs to be plugged to a power outlet, and there’s also the cordless electric nail gun that runs on a battery that needs to be charged before it can operate.

They come with incredible features like LED lights that improve visibility, a tool-free depth adjustment setting that allows you to adjust the depth at which the nails are driven into the material and a switch that allows you to regulate air pressure or change the trigger mode.

What kind of nail gun do I need for molding?

The finishing nail gun is the best nail gun for molding. It is used for finishing projects like molding, paneling and installing trims. They use shorter and lighter gauge nails ranging from 14 to 16 gauges and are not used for heavy work. They are used for moldings around windows and doors as well as cabinet making.

What is the best electric brad nailer?

The best brad nailer is the Hitachi NT1850DE 18V Cordless Brad Nailer. It is a top-quality brad nail gun that is powered by a Compact 3.0Ah Lithium-ion battery allowing the nail gun to be used for a long time in a single charge. It can drive about 1,650 per battery charge using an air spring drive system.

It is also lightweight and easy to handle. It features a brushless motor technology that improves its efficiency and durability and a selective actuation switch that transitions its firing mode between sequential mode and bump firing mode.

Should I get a 16 or 18 gauge nailer?

The 16 gauge nailer fires thick 16 gauge nails. These 16 gauge nails are very versatile nails that penetrate and support thick boards holding them firmly in position. They increase precision and prevent damage to your material.

The 18-gauge nailer, on the other hand, can be referred to as the perfect trim gun—the shoot 18-gauge nails which are smaller and are used in fine detail work. Most Brad nailers fire 18 gauge nails which may be as much as 2 inches in length; these are capable of holding thick boards in place.

Can I use a finish nailer for framing?

A framing nailer is the best nail to use for framing. A finish nailer cannot be interchanged with a framing nailer because they have features that serve different purposes.

A finish nail gun was designed for less complex projects like molding, paneling, installing trims or making cabinets. They are used to add finishing touches to projects.

The framing nail gun is ideal for large scale projects that require extra power; projects like framing a building, room construction or building decks. They are heavier and very durable. These two nail guns can, therefore, not be interchanged.

How does an electric nail gun work?

Electric nail guns work by using a rotating electric motor that compresses a powerful spring to generate rather than compressed air used by pneumatic nail guns. When the trigger is pulled, the spring is released, creating the force used to drive the nail into the material.

The electric nail gun is of two types; the corded and cordless nail gun. The corded nail gun, as the name suggests, comes with a cord that is plugged directly to a power outlet while the cordless electric nail gun runs on a battery that needs to be charged before use.

Who sells electric nail guns?

You can get your electric nail guns at amazon.com; they have a wide variety of nail guns ranging from roofing nail guns to electric nail guns. In the review above, we have provided URLs that direct you to the site where you can purchase your choice of electric nail gun right away.

Conclusion

There are various features you should look out for when buying an electric nail gun, and we have narrowed down each of these features in our review. Features like the air pressure dial, depth control, comfortable handling have been explained in the review and are very important.

We hope this review on the 10 best electric nail guns has provided you with clarity and information on how to choose the most suitable electric nail guns for your projects.