introduction
There are more types of staplers out there than most people realize, and each one serves a unique purpose. Whether you’re putting together a simple document at your desk, binding a booklet, or tackling a DIY upholstery project, the right stapler makes all the difference.
In this 2025 guide, we’ll break down 10 of the most useful and interesting stapler types so you can finally stop jamming your documents, and maybe even have a little fun while you’re at it.
10 Must-Have Types of Staplers
When it comes to getting the job done right, having the right types of staplers makes all the difference. These 10 must-have types of staplers cover everything from everyday paperwork to heavy-duty tasks, creative projects.
Whether you need something compact for your desk, powerful for packaging, or precise for making booklets, there’s a stapler designed to fit you.
1. Standard Desktop Stapler
The standard desktop stapler is one of the most common types of staplers that almost everyone has used at some point. It’s simple, reliable, and does exactly what you need, fastening a handful of papers together without any fuss.
Whether you’re in school organizing assignments or in the office sorting daily documents, this type of stapler quietly gets the job done. It may not look fancy, but it’s the classic tool that proves sometimes the simplest things are the most useful.
Let’s take a look at these 10 amazing staplers！
An in-depth look
Material: Durable metal mechanism with a plastic or metal body
Color: Available in classic black, gray, blue, or assorted office colors
Size: Usually 5–7 inches long
Number of Fasteners: Holds a half-strip (105) or full-strip (210) of staples
Features: Lightweight, easy to reload, non-slip base, smooth stapling action
Use: Ideal for everyday office, school, or home use; staples 10–25 sheets at a time
Pros
Affordable and widely available
Compact and lightweight; easy to keep on any desk
Simple to use, no power source required
Reliable for everyday paperwork
Compatible with standard staple sizes
Cons
Limited stapling capacity
Not suitable for binding large documents or thick stacks
May jam if overloaded
Requires manual pressure
Product Recommendation: Swingline Stapler
The Swingline Light Duty Standard Stapler is one of those reliable office tools you can always count on. Built with a sturdy all-metal frame, it feels solid in your hand and is made to last through years of daily use.
It can hold a full strip of staples, secure up to 20 sheets at a time, and even has a handy low-staple indicator so you’re never caught off guard.
Features:
Durable all-metal construction for long-lasting performance.
Desktop design with full-strip capacity (210 staples).
Fastens up to 20 sheets using standard 1/4″ Swingline S.F. 4 Premium Staples.
Versatile use with stapling, tacking, and pinning functions.
Low-staple indicator to prevent running out unexpectedly.
Easy reloading with spring-loaded top for quick staple replacement.
2. Heavy-Duty Stapler
Among the many types of staplers, the heavy-duty stapler stands out as the powerhouse of the group. Unlike a standard desktop stapler, this one is built for big jobs; it can fasten thick stacks of 60, 100, or even 200+ sheets together with ease.
It’s the kind of tool that saves time, making it an essential choice for offices, copy centers, and anyone who deals with high-volume paperwork.
An in-depth look
Material: Reinforced metal frame with durable plastic or rubberized handle
Color: Commonly black, gray, or silver
Size: Larger than a standard stapler; typically 10–15 inches long
Number of Fasteners: Holds a full strip (210) or extended-capacity staples designed for thick stacks
Features: High-capacity stapling (60–200+ sheets), long lever handle for reduced effort, anti-jam mechanism
Use: Ideal for large reports, booklets, or stacks of paper that need to be securely bound
Pros
Saves time and effort for high-volume paperwork
Sturdy, durable build designed for long-term use
Long lever handle reduces strain on hands
Essential for offices, schools, and print shops handling reports
Anti-jam mechanisms make stapling smoother
Cons
Bulkier and heavier than standard staplers
More expensive than regular types of staplers
Not practical for everyday light stapling
Requires more desk space
Product Recommendation: Blue Summit Supplies Heavy Duty Stapler
The Blue summit supplies heavy-duty stapler, your unstoppable Work companion! Tackle any stapling job, from a few sheets to a 200-page stack, with effortless power.
Built tough with all-metal strength, it staples smoothly every time, thanks to its wide, easy-press lever. Switch between standard and flat clinch for neat or secure binding.
No jams, no fuss, just rock-solid reliability for your busiest days.
Features:
Stapling capacity: from just a few sheets up to 200–240 sheets.
All-metal design for long-lasting strength in busy offices.
Large handle provides extra leverage and less effort when stapling thick stacks.
Versatile use with support for multiple staple sizes (8mm–24mm).
Easy rear-loading slot with smooth, jam-resistant mechanics.
Non-skid base keeps the stapler steady during use.
3. Long-Reach Stapler
When it comes to specialty types of staplers, the long-reach stapler is a must-have for anyone who works with booklets, brochures, or center-stapled documents.
What makes this stapler stand out is its extended arm, which lets you staple deep into the center of a page, something standard staplers just can’t do.
Whether you’re a teacher making classroom packets or a designer preparing a zine, this type of stapler gives you the reach and precision you need.
An in-depth look
Material: Metal frame with plastic or rubber handle/grip
Color: Commonly black, gray, or silver
Size: Extended length (typically 12–20 inches) with adjustable paper guide
Number of Fasteners: Holds a full strip (210) of standard staples
Features: Extra-long reach for center stapling, smooth, manual operation, Non-slip base for stability
Use: Ideal for creating booklets, brochures, newsletters, and center-fold documents
Pros
Can staple in the center of large sheets
Adjustable depth guide ensures precise staple placement
Works with standard staples
Great for classrooms, offices, and creative projects
Cons
Limited to thin to medium page stacks
A longer body takes up more desk or storage space
Not ideal for heavy-duty stapling
Product Recommendation: Sparco Long Reach Stapler
The Sparco Long Reach Stapler is a great tool when you need to go beyond the limits of a regular stapler. Whether you’re making booklets, brochures, or mounting cards, these types of staplers give you the flexibility and reach to place staples exactly where you need them.
It’s easy to use, works with standard staples, and helps you give your work a clean, professional finish without complicated equipment.
Features:
Stapling capacity: Up to 20 sheets
Adjustable throat depth up to 12″ for precise staple placement
Uses standard staples—no need for special refills
Ideal for binding books, brochures, pamphlets, and mounting cards
Perfect for school, office, or creative DIY use
4. Plier Stapler
Among the more versatile types of staplers, the plier stapler stands out for its handheld design and strong stapling power. What makes it special is how easy it is to grip and squeeze, just like a pair of pliers—making it perfect for stapling thicker materials like receipts, cardboard, or small bags.
Whether you’re sealing shipping envelopes or attaching labels, this stapler feels comfortable, efficient, and surprisingly powerful for its size.
An in-depth look
Material: All-metal body with ergonomic plastic or rubber grip handles
Color: Typically silver, black, or chrome
Size: Compact handheld size, usually 6–8 inches in length
Number of Fasteners: Holds a half-strip (105) or full-strip (210)
Features: Handheld design with strong grip and smooth stapling action.
Use: Perfect for stapling tags, receipts, or packaging in retail and mailroom settings.
Pros
Comfortable, ergonomic grip for one-hand use
Strong stapling power for thicker materials
Compact and portable
Great for tagging, packaging, and retail use
Often jam-resistant and easy to reload
Cons
Not ideal for high-volume stapling
Limited sheet capacity
Requires more hand pressure
Less precise for center or edge stapling on large sheets
Product Recommendation: Bostitch Office B8 Plier Stapler
The Heavy Duty Plier Stapler is built to take on just about anything your busy day throws at it. Whether you’re stapling just a handful of pages or a massive 200+ sheet report, this stapler delivers the strength and reliability you need.
Its sturdy all-metal design, frustration-free mechanics, and large lever handle make stapling smoother and easier, while the reversible anvil and included staple sizes give you flexibility for every task.
Features:
Stapling capacity: from just a few sheets up to 200–240 sheets.
All-metal design for long-lasting strength in busy offices.
Large handle provides extra leverage and less effort when stapling thick stacks.
Versatile use with support for multiple staple sizes (8mm–24mm).
Easy rear-loading slot with smooth, jam-resistant mechanics.
5. Electric Stapler
Among the more modern types of staplers, the electric stapler is a real time-saver—especially if you handle a lot of paperwork every day. With just a gentle push or automatic trigger, it staples your documents cleanly and effortlessly, no squeezing or jamming to worry about.
It’s perfect for busy office settings where speed and convenience matter. Once you try one, it’s hard to go back to manual stapling. It’s fast, smooth, and makes your workflow feel just a little more efficient.
An in-depth look
Material: Durable plastic housing with internal metal stapling mechanism
Color: Typically black, white, or gray; some models in modern finishes
Size: Medium desktop size (around 6–10 inches in length)
Number of Fasteners: Holds a full strip (210 staples); high-capacity models may hold more
Features: Automatic stapling, adjustable stapling depth, jam-resistant, fast and quiet operation
Use: Ideal for high-volume stapling in offices, schools, and shared workstations
Pros
Fast and effortless stapling, great for high-volume tasks
Consistent and clean staple placement
Reduces hand strain compared to manual staplers
Adjustable depth for precise stapling
Some models are battery-powered for portability
Cons
Requires a power source
More expensive than manual types of staplers
Can jam if overloaded or used with the wrong staples
Bulkier and takes up more desk space
Product Recommendation: EcoElectronix Portable Automatic Electric Stapler
The EcoElectronix Portable Automatic Electric Stapler makes stapling fast, effortless, and even a little fun. Whether you’re in a busy office or working from home, these smart, jam-free types of staplers take the pressure off your hands by detecting your paper and stapling it automatically.
No pushing or squeezing needed. It can handle up to 30 sheets at once and runs on either batteries or an AC adapter, giving you flexibility wherever you work.
Features:
Automatic sensor stapling, no manual pressure needed.
Staples up to 30 sheets at a time.
Jam-free design for smooth, reliable use.
Dual power options: use with an AC adapter or 6 AA batteries.
Sleek, modern look fits perfectly on any desk.
6. Staple Gun (Tacker)
When it comes to heavy-duty types of staplers, the staple gun, also known as a tacker, is in a league of its own. Unlike your typical office stapler, this one is built for tougher materials like wood, fabric, plastic, or even wire mesh.
Whether you’re hanging decorations, upholstering furniture, or doing light carpentry, a staple gun gives you the strength and control you need to get the job done. It’s a favorite among DIYers and professionals alike.
Once you’ve used one, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.
An in-depth look
Material: Heavy-duty steel or aluminum body, often with a rubberized grip
Color: Commonly metallic silver, black, or red
Size: Handheld, typically 5–8 inches in length
Number of Fasteners: Usually holds 80–150 heavy-duty staples
Features: Manual or electric operation, strong driving force, jam-resistant, ergonomic handle
Use: Ideal for upholstery, carpentry, crafts, insulation, posters, and general DIY projects
Pros
Strong stapling power
Great for crafts, upholstery, DIY, and construction tasks
Available in manual, electric, and pneumatic versions
Durable build designed for rugged use
Cons
Not suitable for standard paper stapling
Requires more force
Needs caution during use
Product Recommendation: Bielmeier Electric Staple Gun
The Bielmeier Electric Staple Gun is a compact and cordless tool that makes everyday fixing, crafting, and decorating easy and fun.
Whether you’re upholstering a chair, attaching fabric, or doing small repairs around the house, these lightweight types of staplers are ready to go right out of the box, with 1,200 staples and 400 nails included.
It’s built with safety in mind, super easy to use, and can be charged quickly with a USB-C cable. No wires, no air compressors, just grab it and get the job done wherever you are.
Features:
2-in-1 design, works with both staples and brad nails.
Cordless and lightweight, easy to carry and use.
Up to 850 staples per charge, 50 shots per minute.
Triple safety system: Power switch, contact striker, and trigger lock.
USB Type-C charging with LED indicator (fully charges in 2 hours).
Perfect for home DIY tasks: Upholstery, canvas, light repairs, and more.
7. Mini Stapler
Among the most portable types of staplers, the mini stapler is small but surprisingly handy. It fits easily in your pencil case, pocket, or desk drawer and is perfect for quick fixes on the go. Whether you’re a student organizing class notes or someone who likes to stay prepared.
Despite its compact size, it can staple a few sheets cleanly and comes in fun colors and designs that make it more personal than your average office tool.
An in-depth look
Material: Plastic body with internal metal mechanism
Color: Available in a wide range of colors and fun designs
Size: Compact and portable (typically 2–4 inches long)
Number of Fasteners: Holds a half-strip (up to 105 staples)
Features: Lightweight, portable, easy to carry, often includes a built-in staple remover
Use: Ideal for students, travel, personal planners, and light everyday stapling (up to 10–12 sheets)
Pros
Ultra-portable and lightweight, fits in pockets or pencil cases
Great for quick, light-duty stapling
Often comes in fun, colorful designs
Inexpensive and easy to find
Cons
Limited stapling capacity
Needs frequent reloading due to smaller staple capacity
Less comfortable for repeated use
Product Recommendation: Knamoda Pink Color Mini Stapler
The Knamoda Pink Mini Stapler is as cute as it is practical, perfect for anyone who loves stylish, space-saving stationery. Don’t let its small size fool you; these tiny types of staplers can handle up to 20 sheets at once, making it a great everyday tool for the office, home, or classroom.
It fits comfortably in your hand, comes in three fun colors, and adds a pop of charm to any workspace. Whether you’re keeping one for yourself or sharing with coworkers or family, it’s a little tool that brings a lot of joy to your desk.
Features:
Stapling capacity: Up to 20 sheets.
Compact and handheld: Fits in the palm of your hand.
Durable build: Made from high-impact plastic.
Cute design: Available in 3 colors for a touch of fun.
Perfect for tight spaces: Great for desks, pouches, or travel.
8. Stapleless Stapler
Among the most innovative types of staplers, the stapleless stapler is perfect for those who want a cleaner, safer, and more eco-friendly way to bind papers.
Instead of using metal staples, it cleverly cuts and folds the paper to secure your documents, no refills, no jams, and no risk of poking your fingers.It’s especially great for kids, classrooms, and anyone who wants to reduce waste.
Once you try this simple tool, you’ll be surprised by how effective it is and never worry about running out of staples again.
An in-depth look
Material: Durable plastic with an internal metal blade mechanism
Color: Often available in white, black, pastel, or bright colors
Size: Compact handheld size (typically 2–4 inches wide)
Number of Fasteners: Not applicable (staple-free design)
Features: Uses a paper-folding mechanism to bind sheets, no staples required, eco-friendly
Use: Ideal for classrooms, home, and eco-conscious offices; binds 2–10 sheets
Pros
Eco-friendly, no metal staples needed
Safe for children
No need to refill or buy staples
Great for schools, home offices, and paper recycling
Compact and lightweight for easy storage and portability
Cons
Limited capacity
Not suitable for binding thick documents
Folded paper joints may come loose over time
Product Recommendation: Plus Paper Clinch Compact Staple-Free Stapler
The Plus Paper Clinch Compact Staple-Free Stapler is a smart, eco-friendly solution for anyone looking to simplify their paper organizing without using traditional staples.
This compact, needleless stapler neatly fastens 2 to 6 sheets of paper without leaving any metal behind, perfect for classrooms, home offices, or anywhere safety and cleanliness matter.
These types of staplers are lightweight, easy to grip, and powered by a clever assist mechanism that makes punching through paper effortless. Best of all, it’s made with recycled materials, so it’s gentle on the planet too.
Features:
Staple-free design: Binds 2–6 sheets without using metal staples.
Power assist mechanism for smooth and easy use.
Compact and lightweight: Only 2.8 oz (80g).
Includes hole clips: For extra convenience.
Eco-conscious build: Made with 50% recycled resin.
Safe and clean: Ideal for schools, offices, or home use where staples aren’t needed.
9. Pneumatic Stapler
When talking about industrial-grade types of staplers, the pneumatic stapler is the go-to tool for speed, power, and efficiency. Powered by compressed air, it makes light work of heavy-duty tasks like furniture assembly, wood framing, and packaging.
If you’ve ever done repetitive stapling by hand, you’ll instantly appreciate how effortless it feels with one of these in hand. It’s the kind of stapler that professionals rely on every day, strong, reliable, and built to keep up with demanding jobs without wearing you out.
An in-depth look
Material: Heavy-duty aluminum or steel housing with rubber or plastic grip
Color: Typically industrial tones like gray, black, red, or blue
Size: Medium to large handheld tool (usually 7–12 inches long)
Number of Fasteners: Typically holds 100–150 industrial staples
Features: Air-powered for high-speed stapling, strong driving force, low recoil, quick reloading, jam-resistant design
Use: Ideal for construction, woodworking, furniture manufacturing, and high-volume packaging tasks
Pros
Powerful and fast, perfect for heavy-duty, repetitive tasks
Reduces hand fatigue compared to manual staplers
Delivers consistent, deep stapling into tough materials
Ideal for industrial and professional use
Works smoothly with large staple volumes
Cons
Requires an air compressor to operate
Not suitable for small or everyday office tasks
Bulkier and heavier than standard staplers
Higher cost compared to manual or electric models
Product Recommendation: Arrow PT50 Oil-Free Pneumatic Staple Gun
The Arrow PT50 Pneumatic Staple Gun is a powerful and user-friendly tool that’s built for serious DIYers and professionals alike. Whether you’re working on insulation, upholstery, or flooring, this oil-free stapler delivers speed, comfort, and safety in one compact design.
Its bump-fire feature lets you staple quickly without stopping, while the overmolded grip and adjustable exhaust keep you comfortable and in control.
With no oiling required and a dual-trigger safety system, these types of staplers are a worry-free workhorse ready for any big job around the house or workshop.
Features:
Oil-free operation, no maintenance or messy lubrication needed.
Bump fire mode for fast, continuous stapling.
Dual safety trigger prevents accidental firing.
Lightweight, compact design with rubber comfort-grip.
Compatible with T50 staples (1/4″ to 9/16″).
10. Booklet Stapler
Among the more specialized types of staplers, the booklet stapler is a favorite for anyone who regularly creates booklets, catalogs, or event programs. It is designed with a saddle-shaped base.
If you’ve ever wanted to create your booklets or pamphlets, the booklet stapler makes the process simple and satisfying. Just fold your pages, line them up, and staple right down the center.
It works great with a variety of types of paper, whether you’re printing a school newsletter or a handmade journal.
An in-depth look
Material: Metal frame with plastic or rubber grip components
Color: Commonly black, gray, or metallic finishes
Size: Medium to large size with a saddle-shaped base (8–15 inches long)
Number of Fasteners: Holds a full strip (210) of standard staples
Features: Saddle design for center-fold stapling, adjustable paper guide, smooth manual operation
Use: Ideal for stapling booklets, catalogs, newsletters, event programs, and other folded paper materials
Pros
Perfect for center-fold stapling (booklets, programs, newsletters)
Saddle design ensures accurate staple placement along folds
Clean, professional results for multi-page folded documents
Compatible with standard staples
Adjustable paper guides for alignment and consistency
Cons
Limited to stapling along folds, less versatile than standard staplers
Typically handles fewer sheets
Bulkier than regular desktop staplers
Not ideal for flat or edge stapling
Product Recommendation: Bostitch Office No-Jam Booklet Stapler
The Bostitch Office No-Jam Booklet Stapler is a dependable tool designed to make stapling booklets, brochures, and craft projects easy and frustration-free.
With its sturdy all-metal build and built-in No-Jam technology, you can staple up to 20 sheets without worrying about annoying misfires.
It even opens flat for tacking projects and features a dual clinch system, letting you choose between permanent or temporary stapling with a quick twist.
These types of staplers are smart, reliable, and built to last, backed by a 7-year limited warranty for extra peace of mind.
Features:
Staples up to 20 sheets with ease.
No-Jam technology prevents staple jams.
Dual clinch system for permanent or temporary stapling.
Opens flat for tacking to bulletin boards or crafts.
All-metal construction ensures long-term durability.
Staple reload window alerts you before running out.
FAQ
Can I use any staples in any stapler?
Not all staples are suitable for all types of staplers. Each stapler is designed for a specific size and type of staple, and using the wrong type of staple can cause paper jams or damage the stapler.
If you are using a custom stapler designed for a specific task or branding, be sure to use the correct staple size recommended by the manufacturer.
What’s the difference between a standard stapler and a heavy-duty stapler?
A standard stapler is great for everyday use and handles up to 20 sheets. A heavy-duty stapler is built for large stacks—up to 200+ sheets—and is used for reports, manuals, or office binders.
Why do staplers jam, and how can I prevent it?
Jams happen due to misaligned staples, overloading, or using the wrong staple size. To prevent this, use high-quality staples, don’t overload the stapler, and clear old staples before refilling.
How do I know when to replace or refill staples?
Many staplers include a low-staple indicator. Otherwise, check the magazine manually—if it’s near empty, it’s time to refill!
How do I load staples into my stapler?
It depends on the model. Most desktop staplers lift from the top or back. For heavy-duty and tackers, there’s often a rear-loading slot. Always follow your product’s instructions for safe reloading.
Can electric staplers be used without power?
No, electric staplers require batteries or an AC adapter. Some models offer both for flexibility.
Conclusion
As you can see, understanding the different types of staplers can help you choose the best tool for any task. Whether it’s for home, school, the office, or heavy-duty industrial work.
From compact mini staplers to powerful pneumatic models, each type has its strengths. We hope this guide helps you feel more confident in selecting the right types of staplers for your needs in 2025 and beyond.
