When it comes to choosing a glue gun, a lot of people do not know what to look for. This is why so many people end up choosing products that might not suit their needs. However, our guide compiles the best mini hot glue gun reviews, trusted information, and genuine FAQs to make the search easier for you every step of the way. This way, you can be sure that you are getting a product that will suit your needs perfectly.
11 best mini glue guns reviewed for you
Hot glue guns are essential tools for arts and crafts projects. A mini hot glue gun is perfect for small projects like DIY crafts. They are also great for making picture frames, Christmas or other holiday decorations, and different home projects.
One of the benefits of using a hot glue gun is that the glue dries quickly, in contrast to other types of glue that could take several hours to dry. Additionally, hot glue guns are usually non-toxic, making them a good option for home crafts.
When searching for the best glue gun for your next DIY project, it is important to consider factors such as the gun’s temperature (dual or controlled), the presence of a built-in stand or stand-up base, an on/off switch, an ergonomic trigger, a narrow nozzle, and automatic shut off. The following five glue guns are among the best on the market and would be ideal for your next project.
How we tested the best mini hot glue gun
We analyzed the performance of a number of mini hot glue guns by testing their ability to glue together different materials such as poster board, cardboard, wood, Foamiran, polyester, muslin, plastic beads, and glass. For each test, we used the same brand of glue stick, but we also took into account the coloration.
We initially believed that a shorter heat time would be a key factor in performance. However, we found that faster was not always better. The guns that heated fastest actually performed worst because they had more glue bubbles at the start of usage.
The glue bubbles caused the glue lines to be uneven and the glue flow from the gun to be disrupted. However, when we gave the glue gun five minutes to heat up, the glue flow was consistent.
Our Top Picks
We tested a variety of glue guns and found the following models to be the best on the market. One of these is likely to work well for your crafts and DIY projects.
Types of the best mini hot glue gun
Depending on the scope and size of your project, we have compiled a list of our top choices below.
Full-size Hot Glue Guns
Full-size glue guns are ideal for heavy-duty projects. They are larger and more difficult to store than mini hot glue guns, but they are essential for large crafts. Like mini hot glue guns, full-sized glue guns often have adjustable temperature control. Some full-size guns come with a copper tip or copper nozzle that helps to retain heat better.
Mini Hot Glue Gun
A mini glue gun is an excellent choice for smaller crafting projects. The more expensive models come with adjustable temperature control, which is ideal for dual temperature projects.
Low-Temperature Hot Glue Gun
Note that low-temp glue guns are ideal as entry-level glue guns, as they are less likely to cause burns. Furthermore, a low-temp glue gun typically reaches up to 250°F, making it ideal for use with children.
This hot glue gun is suitable for small projects using delicate materials such as thin fabric, ribbon, or foam. It is also suitable for working with paper and sequins. While this hot glue gun does not have various temperature control options, adults should still supervise kids.
Dual-Temperature Hot Glue Gun
Dual temperature guns are the perfect tool for more complex projects that require both a quick bond and a delicate touch. With two different temperature settings, you can use the high setting for tasks that need a strong bond, and the low setting for tasks that require more delicate work.
When choosing a glue gun, it is important to consider what types of projects it will be used for. Dual-temperature glue guns are a good option for those who want a versatile tool for a variety of purposes. If you are unsure of what temperature glue gun you need, a dual-temperature model is a good choice that can be used for many different projects.
High-Temperature Hot Glue Gun
A high-temperature glue gun can reach extremely high temperatures, making it ideal for heavy-duty projects that require a strong bond. Hot glue guns can melt most glue sticks made from thermoplastics, acrylic additives, or polymers, making them the best glue gun for a variety of applications.
Best Hot Glue Sticks
When using a glue gun, it is important to use the right type and size of glue stick for the gun. Full-size glue guns require thicker sticks, while mini guns use thinner sticks. The temperature of the glue gun will also dictate the length of the stick that is needed.
A detailed review of our top picks for hot glue guns.
As crafting enthusiasts, we know that glue guns are an essential tool. We’ve put together a list of our favorite glue guns to help you find the perfect one for your needs. Whether you’re looking for a powerful adhesive for heavy-duty projects or a versatile gun for a variety of materials, we’ve got you covered.
No #01: Gorilla Dual Temp Mini Hot Glue Gun Kit with 30 Hot Glue Sticks
This mini glue gun is only 12 ounces and has an ergonomic trigger that makes it easy to use. The nozzle is designed for precise placement of glue, and because it has two heat settings, it can be used with both low- and high-temp glue sticks.
The Gorilla comes with a pack of 30 glue sticks included. In testing, we found that the mini glue gun’s grip is comfortable in the hand, the nozzle doesn’t leak or drip glue while positioned upright, and the built-in stand holds the tool securely in place when not in use.
Gorilla Hot Glue Sticks offer a long-term hold on even the most difficult surfaces. The clear adhesive works with high and low-temperature glue guns, and provides extended working time for added convenience on all types of projects. Gorilla Hot Glue is also weather-resistant and incredibly durable.
We were impressed with the quick 45-second heat-up time. Keep in mind that the tool is on the smaller side, so it might not be as comfortable for people with larger hands. Here are the product specs: Type: Dual temp, Power: 12W, Size: Mini.
Pros
This glue gun has a durable flip-down stand that makes it easy to use. The ergonomic trigger is comfortable to use, and the two heat settings make it easy to control the amount of glue being applied. This glue gun also doesn’t leak or drip, so you can be sure that your projects will turn out looking neat and professional.
Cons
Some people may find that this product is too small to comfortably use. If you have large hands, you may want to consider a different product.
No #02: Elmer’s Craft Bond High-Temp Mini Hot Glue Gun, 10W (E6048)
Elmer’s Craft Bond glue gun is a great option for users looking for a safe and affordable option. The glue gun features a heat-insulated nozzle and an emergency automatic shut-off feature, making it a great choice for use around children.
We were initially skeptical of the gun’s small overall size and tiny trigger, but we found the slightly curved handle to be comfortable in the palm of the hand.
This high-temp glue gun has just 10 watts of power, so it takes several minutes to reach the high melting point. However, once it’s raring to go, it should be perfectly capable of handling most crafting and home repair adhesive needs.
A high-temperature hot glue gun with precision features is ideal for crafting and home projects. Advanced safety features such as an insulated nozzle, safety fuse, and built-in side lifts provide reliable protection.
Product Specifications:
Type: HighTemperature
Power: 10 Watts
Size: Mini
Pros
This glue gun is an inexpensive tool that is built with side lifts to allow it to rest safely on its side. It also has a durable flip-down kickstand.
Cons
One potential drawback of this device is that it may be too small for those with larger hands.
No #03: Full-Size Hot Glue Gun for Crafts, 60W Large Glue Gun with 12 Glue Sticks and Stand
If you need a versatile and powerful glue gun for a variety of crafts or household repairs, the Chandler Tool Hot Glue Gun is a great option. It has 60 watts of heating power, so it can melt a variety of full-size glue sticks.
The no-drip tip on this glue gun prevents excess glue from getting on surfaces when the gun is set down. The built-in kickstand and base keep the tool securely in an upright position.
Our testing found that the flip-down kickstand was its standout feature, as models with this feature have a frustrating tendency to fall over. We found this full-size glue gun to be comfortable to hold, especially for those with larger hands.
We also found the safety feature of its well-insulated sleeved tip to be very beneficial. However, we did not appreciate the thin and flimsy feel of the plastic body.
Stand up Base
The hot glue gun features a patented removable stand that prevents tipping. This means your hot glue gun won’t fall over and stick to your work surface.
Accessories
This bundle includes an electric-powered adhesive gun and 12 full-size clear glue gun sticks (7/16”). It also comes with a wire kickstand and a removable stand-up base.
No drip hot glue gun
This glue gun is perfect for all types of crafts, from professional detailed work to fun art projects with the kids. Its drip-free design makes it ideal for a variety of applications.
Product Specifications:
Type: High temperature power supply
Power: 60 watts
Size: Full size
Pros
The built-in stand-up base and optional kickstand make this dispenser extremely versatile and easy to use. The minimal drips from the nozzle are an added bonus!
Cons
One potential downside of this product is that its plastic body may feel flimsy to some users.
No #04: WORKPRO Cordless Hot Glue Gun
A cordless glue gun can provide a level of convenience not possible with a corded model, and the WORKPRO Cordless Hot Glue Gun is an excellent choice.
This product is equipped with a 2600mAh rechargeable lithium-ion battery, providing 30 minutes of continuous cordless operation time and up to 110 minutes of total runtime on a full charge.
The glue gun can be preheated in 2 minutes and charged in 2 hours using the USB data cable. It also has advanced safety features.
This glue gun features an auto shutdown after 15 minutes of inactivity and separate LED indicators for the battery level and working status.
We found this high-temp mini glue gun easy and comfortable to use, thanks to a trigger that has enough room for both the index and middle finger; most mini models only have space for an index finger.
The LED indicators on this gun show when it is powered on and ready to dispense, making it very user-friendly. It also has 2600 mAh of rechargeable lithium-ion battery power, meaning it won’t run out of power quickly. Plus, its cordless flexibility makes it easy to use virtually anywhere.
Pros
-LED indicators for battery level and charging status
-Drip-proof nozzle for easy cleaning
-Included charging cable for added convenience
-30 minutes of cordless operation for extended use
Cons
The battery didn’t last the full 110 minutes as advertised.
No #05: AdTech Ultra Low-Temp Cool Tool
The AdTech Ultra Low-Temp glue gun is an excellent choice for delicate tasks, and its low temperature makes it a great option for introducing children to crafting.
This glue gun has a single setting that runs 75 degrees cooler than a standard glue gun. It is also well-insulated, so it is cool to the touch even when it is on. The tool is lightweight and petite, making it perfect for little hands.
The AdTech glue gun is a handy tool that does exactly what it says. With only 10 watts of power, it took a few minutes to heat up in our test, but it worked well.
The AdTech glue gun is best suited for simple crafting tasks and would be an excellent addition to a school, camp, or other location where young crafters can safely use it with supervision.
Pros
The insulation on these gloves is top-notch, making them perfect for delicate tasks. They’re also cool to the touch, which makes them safe for kids to use. Highly recommend!
Cons
The only downside to this product is that it is not suitable for more robust projects.
No #06: Surebonder PRO2-220 220 Watt Adjustable Temperature Professional Heavy Duty Hot Glue Gun
The Surebonder Pro2 is a high-powered glue gun, perfect for heavy-duty applications. With 220 watts of power and an adjustable temperature knob that goes from 220 to 420 degrees Fahrenheit, it can handle even the toughest jobs.
The tool has a toggle switch near the handle base that lights up bright red to indicate when it is on. It also has a rubber tip that reduces the risk of burns and automatically shuts off after 30 minutes of inactivity.
This glue gun is best for serious DIY projects and repairs, such as fixing the siding on a home and installing ceramic tile or baseboards. It is not suitable for casual crafting.
We were pleased with the temperature control and the removable stand that kept the tool stable. The optional kickstand was also a nice touch. The storage case and extra nozzle were both very durable and much appreciated.
Although the tool can accommodate any full-size glue stick, Surebonder’s industrial-strength glue sticks are designed for heavy-duty adhesion and are therefore the manufacturer’s recommended choice for optimal results.
In general, we were pleased with the Surebonder Pro2, although it is relatively expensive and probably more suitable for professional or intensive use. Product Specifications: Type: High temperature. Power: 220W. Size: Full.
Pros
The temperature control on this glue gun is adjustable, so you can find the perfect setting for your project. An extra nozzle is included, and the gun comes in a sturdy storage case. There’s also a glue flow adjustment screw, so you can get just the right amount of glue for your needs.
Cons
If you want the best results, Surebonder glue sticks are recommended. However, they can be expensive.
No #07: Ryobi Glue Gun P305 with Charger & Lithium-ion battery P128
The Ryobi Glue Gun can help streamline woodworking projects such as baseboard installation or construction of a custom frame that requires bonding wood pieces together.
This 18-volt lithium-ion battery powered glue gun can generate as much heat as a 100-watt corded glue gun, making it ideal for use in the wood workshop or craft room with a variety of glue sticks.
It is designed to stand upright on its base and comes with a battery charger. In our testing, we found the Ryobi to be a powerful tool that heats up quickly, but the battery makes it rather bulky and heavy to use.
Although this model is one of the more expensive glue guns on the market, those who already own Ryobi ONE+ cordless tools may wish to purchase the Ryobi One+ glue gun separately at a lower price and use the interchangeable 18V batteries from the other tools. Product Specs: High temp.18V. Full Size.
Pros
The LED indicator on this device lets you know when it’s ready to use, so you can avoid any delays in your woodworking projects. With a runtime of up to 4 hours, this device is great for long-term projects.
Cons
The main downside of this product is its cost. Additionally, it is quite heavy when the battery is attached.
No #08: 60/100W Full-Size Hot Glue Gun with Carrying Box and 20 Pcs Glue Sticks
Do you like to keep your crafting tools and supplies organized and stored away neatly, with everything having its own place? Then you would probably love a good quality, full-sized glue gun that comes with its own carrying case!
Even if you’re not carrying your glue gun around with you, a case can still make it easier to store by keeping the cord contained and making the tool easier to stack on a shelf.
This glue gun comes with 20 hot glue sticks and a case for storing them. It heats quickly and has an on and off switch. Some people prefer this type of glue gun because it is easier to control.
Pros
Comes with 20 glue sticks. Heats up in a couple of minutes.
Cons
One potential downside of this product is that the stand is not too large, which could cause the glue to leak.
No #09: Hot Glue Gun Kit- 60/100W Dual Power Glue Gun Full Size
Do you have an interest in getting a full-sized glue gun with a carrying case? If you find that your auto-plug models get too hot for some of your crafts, then you might prefer this model.
This glue gun has two heat settings, so you can either heat it up to melt the adhesive, or cool it down so that it doesn’t melt the material you’re working with.
This case also features pockets for hot glue sticks and a zipper, rather than just being a hard plastic craft case, which is a great feature.
SAFETY DESIGN
This UL-certified large hot glue gun has smart temperature control to keep the constant temperature. The internal fuse helps for auto cut-off when the hot glue gun is overheated. The unique hot melt glue design avoids glue leakage and backflow to protect your hands and save your hot glue sticks. Nylon-coated metal nozzle is heat resistant and durable for long time using.
FAST HEATING+DUAL POWER 60/100W:
This hot glue gun features a German electronic ceramic PTC thermal heating system for fast, uniform preheating in 1.5-3 minutes. Its dual power design makes it versatile for arts, crafts, and repairs.
TRIGGER PROPULSION DEVICE＆SUPERIOR NOZZLE
This hot glue gun’s trigger propulsion can help you control the glue flow, saving you a lot of glue sticks. Squeezing the trigger will cause the glue to flow toward your target. With a superior and insulated industrial POM material nozzle, it will help produce a consistent strong-adhesive glue stream evenly.
Pros
The kit comes with a case and 10 glue sticks. It only takes a couple of minutes to heat up, making it a great choice for quick repairs.
Cons
One downside of this product is that the glue can sometimes get clogged, so be sure to clean it out.
No #10: Sergia Hot Glue Gun with Glue Sticks 20 Pcs – High Temp Glue Guns kit
Do you often craft on the go, either at friends’ houses or in a studio? If so, you might prefer a glue gun that comes with a carrying case and handle, like this model from Sergia.
This particular glue gun comes as part of a kit with additional features, as opposed to just a carrying case. The kit includes a heat mat for setting the glue on between applications, a pair of heat-resistant gloves to avoid burning your fingers while you work, and three little metal tools.
If you’re a handyman, technician, or DIY lover, the Sergia hot glue gun full-size set is perfect for you. It will fulfill all your DIY needs.
One-stop shopping for your Serge Heat Glue Gun needs! This package includes 20 hot glue sticks for use with the glue gun, 1 portable plastic case, 1 mouse pad, 1 pair of tweezers, 10 finger caps, 1 replacement Copper Nozzle, and 1 user manual.
Pros
This product comes with 20 glue sticks and a great case. It features a power switch between 60 and 100W, making it a great choice for your needs.
Cons
Small projects are great for this tool.
No #11: Liumai Hot Glue Gun Kit with 30pcs Glue Sticks
Are you still considering purchasing a glue gun with hot glue sticks and a base? You may be torn between wanting something that looks more appealing, versus something that is more functional. Keep in mind that if you craft often, you may need something that can withstand more wear and tear.
Liumai has both a full-sized and easy-to-hold glue gun in one place! This product comes in an exciting pink color that makes crafting more enjoyable.
This model is also made from a very durable plastic that is resistant to external damage and heat, preventing it from wearing out as fast as some other designs.
SAFETY CERTIFICATE
The RoHS and CE certificate means that this product is user-friendly and has an inside design that can effectively prevent overheating. The security fuse would prevent leakage, making it extremely safe to use.
WIDELY APPLICABLE
This glue gun is perfect for home, office, school, and crafting projects using various materials such as wood, plastic, glass, stone, ceramic, paper, wicker, lace, cloth, etc. You and your child can also use it to recycle materials like mineral water bottles and express packaging.
Pros
This product comes with a large case and 30 glue sticks, making it ideal for use with a variety of materials, including wood, plastic, and carton.
Cons
One downside of the kickstand is that it isn’t always level.
Buying Guide: Picking the best mini hot glue gun
When choosing a glue gun, keep in mind how often you will be using it. If you plan on using it frequently, it would be wise to invest in a high-quality model.
Cheap glue guns may not be the best option for your needs. There are a few different types of glue guns available on the market, so read our buying guide and get some assistance deciding which is the right option for you.
The wattage of the best mini hot glue gun
In terms of glue guns, more power generally means more heat. A glue gun with a higher wattage will heat up faster and stay hot for longer periods of time. most low-temperature glue guns have a wattage rating of 10 to 20.
High-temperature glue guns are available in a range of wattages, from 20 watts to 100 watts or more. For projects requiring a large amount of glue, such as creating a heavy wreath from pine cones, a high-temperature gun with a wattage of 60 or more will minimize downtime.
A low-temperature gun can be used to create such a wreath, but it might take a minute or more to attach pine cones, allowing the gun to heat up again.
Choose a glue gun with the appropriate wattage for your needs. If you plan on using your glue gun frequently, you may want to select a model with a higher wattage.
Hot and Hotter
There are both low-temperature and high-temperature hot glue guns, each with benefits for specific applications.
Low temperature:
A low-temperature glue gun heats glue to a temperature of approximately 250 degrees Fahrenheit. The glue gun gets very hot at the tip, however it is safer to use than a high-temperature tool and there is less risk of accidental burns. Low-temperature glue guns can only be used with low-temperature glue sticks.
This glue gun is best suited for light-duty projects, such as paper chains and scrapbooking. It is also the ideal tool for child-friendly crafts; however, children must always be supervised by an adult when using any glue gun.
High temperature:
The high-temperature glue gun can melt many different types of glue sticks at around 380 degrees Fahrenheit. This includes sticks with thermoplastic compounds, polymers, and acrylic ingredients that create a strong bond on plastic, wood, and even metal.
The downside of using a high-temperature glue gun is that it is more likely to burn or blister skin if touched while still hot. For this reason, it is ideal for bonding materials such as metal, rocks, wood, and plastics together, and should only be used by adults.
Best mini hot glue gun size
When purchasing a glue gun, another factor to consider is size. Some glue guns are small and compact, while others are larger. If you foresee using your glue gun often, it would be beneficial to select a model that is comfortable and easy to hold, regardless of size. However, the size may be a determining factor in the application.
Nozzles of the best mini hot glue gun
When purchasing a glue gun, you should definitely consider the type of nozzle it has. Some nozzles are better for precision work, while others are better for larger projects.
When selecting a glue gun for delicate tasks, choose a model with a precision nozzle. For larger projects, make sure to select a model with a wider nozzle.
Corded vs. Cordless hot glue gun
Corded or cordless? That is the question when it comes to glue guns. Corded glue guns are plugged into an outlet, while cordless models rely on batteries. Both have their pros and cons, so it is important to weigh your options before making a purchase.
When deciding between a corded and cordless glue gun, consider how often you plan to use the gun. If you anticipate using it frequently, a corded model will be more powerful and a better choice. If you only need it occasionally or if you need a more mobile option, a cordless glue gun is a way to go.
Manual Feed or Trigger Feed
When selecting a glue gun, you may also want to consider the type of feed. Glue guns can have either a manual or trigger feed; a manual feed requires you to manually insert the glue stick into the gun before each use.
With a trigger feed glue gun, you can simply pull the trigger and the glue stick will be fed automatically into the gun. This is a more convenient option if you plan on using your glue gun frequently.
Design of the best mini hot glue gun
When making your purchase, you should also consider the design of the glue gun. Some glue guns have a more aggressive look, while others are designed to be more ergonomic and comfortable. Choose a design that you like and feel comfortable using.
Additional Features
Some models come with a built-in stand, making it easy to keep your glue gun organized and safe. Others come with a light that helps you see what you’re doing, especially in low light conditions. Consider the must-have features and choose a model that offers them. A few of the most important features are:
Variable temperature control
The temperature adjustment feature on this glue gun allows you to use it with a variety of materials, making it a more versatile and flexible option than other models.
On/Off switch
An on/off switch is an important feature for a glue gun as it helps to conserve battery life and can prevent the gun from overheating.
LED light
This glue gun has a light on it so you can see what you are doing, especially in low-light conditions. While not essential, it’s a great add-on that provides some more function to your glue gun.
Stand of the best mini hot glue gun
A stand is an excellent way to keep your glue gun organized and safe. It is perfect for when you need to put it away for the day or just keep it on standby.
Nozzle removal
The removable nozzle feature on a glue gun is helpful primarily because it allows you to easily clean the gun’s nozzle. Cleaning a glue gun can be quite a hassle, so a removable nozzle may really come in handy.
Sleeved tip
One of the key safety features of a glue gun is a heat-resistant sleeve that covers most of the metal dispensing tip. This reduces the risk of burnt fingers and other injuries.
Our verdict on choosing the best mini hot glue gun
We suggest the Gorilla Dual Temp Mini Hot Glue Gun Kit or the Chandler Tool Hot Glue Gun Kit for most of your glue gun needs. The Gorilla Dual Temp mini glue gun’s ability to operate in high- and low-temp modes makes it appropriate for both heavy-duty and delicate craft or repair tasks.
People Also Asked
If you would like more information on choosing and using hot glue guns, please read on for answers to some of the most common questions about these handy tools.
What is the strongest hot glue?
If you need to bond substrates such as wood, metal, and cardboard, use a high-temperature glue gun and glue sticks.
What is the difference between corded and cordless glue guns?
A corded glue gun is plugged into an outlet for power, while a cordless model uses batteries. Corded models typically have more power than cordless varieties.
How many watts is best for a glue gun?
If you plan on using your glue gun frequently, you may want to choose a model with a higher wattage. However, if you only plan on using it occasionally, a lower wattage model will be just as effective.
What is the recommended temperature for a hot glue gun?
To ensure optimal performance, a glue gun should be set to the recommended temperature for the type of adhesive sticks being used. High-temperature glue sticks typically melt within a range of 375 to 450 degrees Fahrenheit, while low-temperature glue sticks melt at temperatures between 200 and 250 degrees Fahrenheit. The wattage of the glue gun plays a role in how quickly the tool heats up.
How do I know if my glue gun is hot enough to use?
The glue gun will have a red light when it is first turned on. Once the glue gun is heated, the light will turn green. If the light is still red, this means that the glue gun is not heated enough and you should wait until the light turns green before using it.
What kind of glue sticks should I use in my glue gun?
The best way to determine which type of glue stick to use is to consult the specifications of your glue gun. Different glue guns will require different types of glue sticks, so it is important to check this before beginning any project. Additionally, the size of the glue stick may also vary depending on the gun being used.
Conclusion of best mini hot glue gun review
If you know someone who is interested in purchasing a glue gun but could use some help making a decision, share this list of information with them. It will provide them with guidance on what to look for in a glue gun, so they can make an informed decision.
