10Best.Guide

Heat Gun

Top Picks

Last Updated: April, 2023
Pros
  • Heats up quickly and does the job fast
  • Solid and durable
  • Good quality for the price
  • Can handle most DIY projects
  • Helpful for cleaning old glass jars
Cons
  • Loud
  • Takes a while to cool down
Bottom Line
The Black & Decker heat gun is a solid and reliable tool that can handle most DIY projects. It heats up quickly and does the job fast, but can be loud and emit smoke for the first couple of minutes. It is a good quality tool for the price and holds up well to heavy use.
Pros
  • Adjustable temperature control
  • Comes with a 3-year warranty
  • Good value for the price
  • Useful for a wide range of projects
  • Saves time and effort in removing paint
Cons
  • Fan motor may break easily
  • May not last long with consistent use
Bottom Line
The Porter Cable Heat Gun PC1500HG is a good value for the price and useful for a wide range of projects. It has adjustable temperature control and is well-built, but may not last long with consistent use and does not come with accessories.
Pros
  • Nicely built with a wide range of temperature settings and two fan speeds.
  • Great for electronic applications like heat-shrink tubing and drying things.
  • Can get hot enough to strip paint.
  • Works well for removing PVC fittings.
  • Great for stripping paint from bathroom cabinets.
Cons
  • Slip fittings can get stuck after some heat cycles.
  • Mid-range temperatures are not very useful.
Bottom Line
This heat gun is a great tool for electronic applications, stripping paint, removing PVC fittings, restoring plastic cladding on vehicles, and melting plastic injected u-joints. It heats up quickly and puts out a lot of heat, but the slip fittings can get stuck and the mid-range temperatures are not very useful.
Pros
  • Temperature control with a wide range of settings
  • Includes attachments for concentrating heat stream
  • Lightweight and heats up quickly
  • Comes with a case and multiple nozzle options
  • Reliable and durable
Cons
  • Produces a strong burning-plastic smell
  • Bulky design
Bottom Line
The Dewalt D26960K heat gun is a reliable and durable option with a wide range of temperature settings and included attachments for concentrating heat. However, it is expensive compared to other options and produces a strong burning-plastic smell.
Pros
  • Two heat speeds for more control
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Durable and thick plastic housing
  • Great for removing sticky tiles and repairing electronics
  • Outstanding packaging and witty safety instructions
Cons
  • Power button position can be hard to control with one hand
  • May not be effective for removing bubbles from resin jewelry
Bottom Line
The Chandler Heat Gun is a versatile tool that is great for a variety of projects, from removing sticky tiles to repairing electronics. Its two heat speeds and durable plastic housing make it easy to use and handle. However, potential quality issues and the need to be careful with materials make it important to use with caution.

The Ultimate Buying Guide for Heat Guns: How to Choose the Best One for Your Needs

Overview

Heat guns are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, including stripping paint, thawing frozen pipes, and shaping plastic. However, with so many options available on the market, it can be challenging to know which one to choose. In this buying guide, we’ll provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision.

Types

1. There are two main types of heat guns: corded and cordless.

2. Corded heat guns are powered by electricity and are typically more powerful than cordless models. They are also more affordable and can be used for extended periods without the need for recharging.

3. Cordless heat guns, on the other hand, are powered by rechargeable batteries, which makes them more portable and convenient to use. However, they are typically less powerful than corded models and may require frequent recharging.

Key Considerations

When choosing a heat gun, there are several key factors to consider, including:

1. Temperature range: Look for a heat gun with a wide temperature range so that you can use it for a variety of tasks.

2. Airflow control: The ability to control the airflow will allow you to adjust the intensity of the heat gun, making it easier to work with different materials.

3. Nozzle attachments: Different nozzle attachments can be used for different tasks, so look for a heat gun that comes with a range of nozzles.

4. Ergonomics: Choose a heat gun that is comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.

Features

Here are some of the essential features to look for in a heat gun:

1. Temperature control: A heat gun with adjustable temperature control will allow you to work with a variety of materials.

2. LCD display: An LCD display will make it easier to monitor the temperature and settings of the heat gun.

3. Overheat protection: Look for a heat gun with overheat protection to prevent it from overheating and causing damage.

4. Dual fan speed: A heat gun with dual fan speed will allow you to adjust the airflow and intensity of the heat gun.

Prices

Heat guns can range in price from around $20 to over $100, depending on the features and brand. Corded models are typically more affordable than cordless models, but they may not be as portable or convenient to use.

Tips

Here are some tips to help you get the most out of your heat gun:

1. Always wear protective gear, such as gloves and goggles, when using a heat gun.

2. Start with a low temperature setting and work your way up to avoid damaging the material you are working with.

3. Keep the heat gun moving to prevent overheating and scorching the material.

4. Use the appropriate nozzle attachment for the task at hand.

FAQs

Q: Can a heat gun be used to remove wallpaper?

A: Yes, a heat gun can be used to soften and loosen wallpaper, making it easier to remove.

Q: Can a heat gun be used to thaw frozen pipes?

A: Yes, a heat gun can be used to thaw frozen pipes, but it should be done with caution to avoid damaging the pipes.

Q: Can a heat gun be used to shrink wrap?

A: Yes, a heat gun can be used to shrink wrap, but it should be done carefully to avoid overheating and damaging the wrap.

Q: How long does it take for a heat gun to heat up?

A: The time it takes for a heat gun to heat up will depend on the model and temperature setting. Typically, it takes a few minutes for a heat gun to reach the desired temperature.

Runner-Ups

Pros
  • Heats up quickly
  • Variable temperature control
  • Comes with different attachments/nozzles
  • Lightweight
  • Great value for the price
Cons
  • Inaccurate heat control
  • Short cord
Bottom Line
This heat gun is a great value for the price and works well for light use. It heats up quickly and has variable temperature control, but lacks accuracy and a temperature display. The attachments are useful, but the kickstand and heat shrinking attachment are inadequate.
Pros
  • Versatile with attachments
  • Good value for basic uses
  • Gets very hot quickly
  • Ergonomic grip
  • Comes with many attachments
Cons
  • Gets overly hot and can cause burns
  • Low volume of hot air
Bottom Line
This heat gun is a good value for basic uses and DIY projects. It gets very hot quickly and comes with many attachments. However, it can cause burns and has a low volume of hot air. The attachments have a loose fit and the power switch has a design flaw.
Pros
  • Cordless and convenient
  • Works great for a few jobs and heat shrinking
  • Portable and useful for car wiring
  • Easy to use with no instructions necessary
  • Perfect for smaller jobs and box offsets
Cons
  • Does not get as hot as corded heat guns
  • Disappointing heat output
Bottom Line
The Dewalt DCE530B 20V cordless heat gun is a convenient and portable tool that works great for smaller jobs and heat shrinking. However, it may not be suitable for larger jobs and has a short battery life. The heat output is not as high as corded heat guns, but it is a good option for those who want something portable and not fuel powered.
Pros
  • Adjustable heat level
  • Good price point
  • Lightweight and easy to handle
  • Comes with attachments to focus airflow
  • Heats up quickly
Cons
  • Overheats easily
  • Power cord is undersized
Bottom Line
This heat gun is a great value for the price, with adjustable heat levels, quick heating, and useful attachments. However, it may overheat easily and the power cord is undersized.
Pros
  • Variable temperature control
  • Comes with multiple attachments
  • Lightweight and easy to use
  • Gets hot quickly
  • Stable when placed down
Cons
  • Short cord
  • Inconsistent temperature control
Bottom Line
This heat gun is a great value for its variable temperature control and multiple attachments. However, it has some quality control issues and a short cord.
Please add more products to compare
You can compare up to four products at once
{{compareData.brand}}