Types of Hot Glue Guns
Depending on the size of your project, there are three types of glue guns to choose from– low temp, high temp, and dual temperature. We have reviewed our top five choices below.Full-size Hot Glue Guns
Full-size guns are optimal for heavy-duty projects. They are larger and less easy to store than a mini hot glue gun, but they are a must-have for heavy-duty crafts. Like mini hot glue guns, a full-sized glue gun can include adjustable temperature control such as dual temperature. Another plus about buying a full-size gun is that some are available with a copper tip or copper nozzle that holds heat better.Mini Hot Glue Gun
A mini glue gun is the best hot glue gun for smaller crafting projects. The more expensive ones come with adjustable temperature control with dual temperature.Low-Temperature Hot Glue Gun
Note that low temp glue guns are best as entry-level glue guns as they are less likely to cause burns. In addition, a low-temp glue gun usually reaches up to 250°F and is better when working with children. This hot glue gun works for small projects with more delicate materials such as thin fabric, ribbon, or foam or working with paper and sequins. This hot glue gun doesn’t have various temperature control options, so adults should still supervise kids.High-Temperature Hot Glue Gun
A high-temperature gun can reach extremely high temperatures at 380°F. Many hot glue guns can melt most glue sticks made from thermoplastics, acrylic additives, or polymers, making them the best glue gun for heavy-duty projects. Heavy-duty jobs include working with wood, glass, or thick fabrics.Dual-Temperature Hot Glue Gun
A dual temp hot glue gun has different heat settings that allow users to switch between low and hot temperatures. While more expensive than other glue guns, this might be the best mini glue gun to choose for its versatility in various projects.Hot Glue Sticks
Buying the right glue sticks for the right glue gun is essential. Full-size glue guns require thicker sticks, and each manufacturer will suggest longer or shorter sticks, depending on the temperature of the glue gun. Mini guns use thinner glue sticks. Keep in mind that a low temp hot glue gun can only use silicone-based glue sticks.Our Product Recommendations
- Best Mini Hot Glue Gun Overall:
- Best Cordless Glue Gun:
- Best Corded Hot Glue Guns:
- Best High-Temperature Glue Guns:
- Best Low-Temperature Glue Gun:
1. Best Hot Glue Gun Overall – Gorilla Mini Glue Gun
- Price – ~$12.49 – Our score: 9/10
- Wire Stand – Plastic Stand – Our score: 10/10
- On/Off Switch – No – Our score: 8/10
- Trigger Type – Easy – Our score: 9/10
- Nozzle – Precision – Our score: 10/10
- Auto-Off – No – Our score: 7/10
Pros
- Quick heating glue gun
- Thick and durable stand
- Glue sticks are water-resistant
- Has both low and high temperatures
Cons
- No safety fuse auto-off switch
- No on/off switch
2. Best Cordless Glue Gun – WORKPRO Mini Glue Gun
- Price – ~$31.99 – Our score: 7/10
- Wire Stand – Yes – Our score: 10/10
- On/Off Switch – Yes – Our score: 10/10
- Trigger Type – Easy – Our score:8/10
- Nozzle – Thin – Our score: 8/10
- Auto-Off – Yes – Our score: 10/10
Pros
- Auto-off feature
- Cordless
- Ergonomic handle
Cons
- Battery life could be better
3. Best Corded Glue Gun – Gluerious Hot Glue Gun
- Price – ~$12.79 (Was $16.99) – Our score: 9/10
- Wire Stand – Yes – Our score: 8/10
- On/Off Switch – Yes – Our score: 10/10
- Trigger Type – Easy – Our score: 8/10
- Nozzle – Precision – Our score: 10/10
- Auto-Off – No – Our score: 7/10
Pros
- Has a silicone nozzle that reduces burns
- Includes a rubber protector cover to reduce burning
- Designed with a ceramic heating system to release hot glue easier
- Long cord
- Hot enough for heavy-duty projects, such as gluing ceramic, glass, or wood together
Cons
- No auto-off
- Could be heavier
4. Best High-Temperature Glue Gun – AdTech Hot Glue Gun
- Price – ~$13.99 – Our score: 8/10
- Wire Stand – Yes – Our score: 10/10
- On/Off Switch – No – Our score: 7/10
- Trigger Type – Medium – Our score: 7/10
- Nozzle – Thick – Our score: 7/10
- Auto-Off – No – Our score: 8/10
Pros
- Has a five-foot cord
- Does not drip
- Heats up quickly
- Includes 10 glue sticks
Cons
- Uses a lot of glue
- Is very hot, so caution must be exercised when using
5. Best Low-Temperature Glue Gun – AdTech Mini Glue Gun
- Price – ~$5.92 – Our score: 10/10
- Wire Stand – Yes – Our score: 10/10
- On/Off Switch – No – Our score: 8/10
- Trigger Type – Easy – Our score: 8/10
- Nozzle – Not exposed – Our score: 7/10
- Auto-Off – No – Our score: 7/10
Pros
- Includes 10 hot melt glue gun sticks
- Can safely be used by children
- Ideal for small projects
Cons
- Doesn’t have an auto-off feature