Overview
PROS
CONS
SPECS
Type
Size
Gauge
Driving Depth
Capacity
Our Top Choice
Bostitch Smart Point 18 GA Brad Nailer
When you need tools and accessories to get the job done, trust Bostitch. This company has years of experience tucked under its belt, having been in existence since 1896.
Smart Point technology. Smaller nose. Precise brad placement. Dial-a-depth mechanism.
Noisy compressor.
Air-powered
12.2 x 11.7 x 4.5” / 3.1 lbs
18-gauge
Depth adjustment
100
Best Value
Hitachi 18-Gauge Brad Nailer
Hitachi, whose headquarters is in Japan manufactures and distributes a range of power tools and life-science instruments.
Gives a brad range from 5/8” to 2”. Narrow nosepiece. Short center height to easily work tight corners.
Costs more since compressor is sold separately.
Air-powered
10 x 9.25 x 2.4” / 2.2 lbs
18-gauge
Depth adjustment
100
Makita 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Brad Nailer
Makita began in 1915 as a motor repair and sales company. It has since grown and expanded its business to more than 40 countries.
Gives a brad range from 5/8” to 2”. 2-mode selector switch. Easy-to-use "tool-less" depth adjustment dial. Anti-dry drive mechanism. Magazine capacity of up to 110 nails. Battery gauge.
Not ideal for prolonged projects.
Battery-powered
14.5 x 11.7 x 4.4” / 7.5 lbs
18-gauge
Depth adjustment
110
Porter-Cable 20V MAX Lithium Brad Nailer
Having been in existence since 1906, Porter Cable boasts of more than 100 years of experience in manufacturing and servicing a variety of power tools.
Better runtime with1.5 Ah 20V lithium battery. Consistent driving depth. Lightweight. Multiple tool free settings.
There were incidents of faulty workmanship after a year’s usage.
Battery-powered
12.5 x 11 x 3.9” / 5.9 lbs
18-gauge
Depth adjustment
100
Dewalt Heavy Duty Staple and Brad Tacker
Dewalt, founded in 1924 by Raymond Dewalt, has grown in leaps and bounds and is now a multinational company producing highly effective and efficient power tools and accessories.
The Dewalt brad nailer uses heavy duty staples and 18-gauge brads and also features an anti-jam mechanism that prevents misfiring.
Nails did jam in some isolated cases
Battery-powered
10.5 x 7 x 1.7” / 1.9 lbs
18-gauge
No depth adjustment
100