A crimper is a piece of very handy equipment used to deform the ends of wires and connectors to make cold weld joints between them. Among different types of connectors, the RJ45 connectors are the most popular connectors used in internet cables and other networking cables.
The RJ45 crimper makes it easy to crimp the cables and ensures strong reliable joints. Before purchasing an RJ45 crimper, you have to check if it is compatible with the cables you want to crimp.
Also, if you are professional, you need to get a versatile crimper. The crimper must not only crimp, but also cut and strip the wires. It eliminates the need for purchasing multiple tools and getting maximum value for your money.
Below are the different features you need to check before purchasing the best RJ45 crimper.
- Supported Connectors: Apart from the RJ45 crimping, it is good to have a crimper that crimps other connectors. Especially, if you are buying a crimper for commercial purposes, getting a crimper that crimps RJ45, RJ11, and RJ12 can come in quite handy. RJ9, RJ10, and RJ22 are the other commonly used connectors.
- Supported Cable Types: Similar to the connectors, you should also check the cable type that you want to crimp. There are different standards of CAT cables used in computer networking. The latest standard CAT 8 supports speeds of up to 40Gbit/s. Sometimes, different cables are used in the same linear connection. So, it is important to get a crimper that can crimp different CAT cables.
- Positions: The modular connectors of the RJ45 crimper should be compatible with 4,6, and 8 positions, as these are the most common categories. If you are a professional worker, then you will need an RJ45 crimper that can work with more categories. 5 is another commonly used category.
Apart from these, there are several secondary features you need to check before purchasing the perfect RJ45 crimper. These features will give you maximum value for your money. You will find a complete list of such features in the “Buying Guide” section of this article. But before heading to that, please check out our curated list of the Best RJ45 Crimpers 2021.
Best RJ45 Crimper 2024
| Best RJ45 Crimper | Supported Wires | Supported Cable Type | Positions | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Klein Tools RJ45 Crimper | RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 | CAT3, CAT5e, and CAT6/6A | 4,6, and 8 | Check On Amazon |
| UbiGear RJ45 Crimper | RJ11, RJ12, RJ22, and RJ45 | CAT5 and CAT5e | 4,6, and 8 | Check On Amazon |
| Trendnet RJ45 Crimper | RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 | 6 and 8 | Check On Amazon | |
| Ywnegwe RJ45 Crimper | RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 | Cat5 and Cat5e | 6 and 8 | Check On Amazon |
| Hiija RJ45 Crimper | RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 | Cat5, Cat5e, and Cat6 | Pass through | Check On Amazon |
| VCE RJ45 Crimper | RJ45 | Cat7, Cat6a, Cat5, and Cat5e | 8 | Check On Amazon |
| Platinum RJ45 Crimper | RJ45 | CAT6 and CAT5e | Pass through | Check On Amazon |
| Ampcom RJ45 Crimper | RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 | Cat6, CAT5e, and CAT5 | 6 and 8 | Check On Amazon |
| PE Techtool RJ45 Crimper | RJ12 and RJ45 | CAT3, CAT5e, and CAT6 | 6 and 8 | Check On Amazon |
| Knoweasy RJ45 Crimper | RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 | CAT3, CAT5e, and CAT6 | Pass through | Check On Amazon |
| Klein Tools 005 RJ45 Crimper | RJ45 | CAT3, CAT5e, and CAT6/6A | Pass through | Check On Amazon |
| Cable Matters RJ45 Crimper | RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 | CAT6 and CAT5e | 6 and 8 | Check On Amazon |
Also Check:
Best RJ45 Crimper Reviews
1. Klein Tools RJ45 Crimper
Klein Tools is a reputed hand tools manufacturer that has been in production for around 160 years. It manufactures a wide range of hardware equipment including hand tools, electrical testers, measuring tools, fish tapes, portable power devices, and tool bags.
The Klein VDV266-110 is a premier modular crimper that efficiently cuts, strips and crimps. It can be used for CAT3, CAT5e, and CAT6/6A cables. Along with RJ45, it is also used for standard RJ11 and RJ12. It comes with a very helpful wiring diagram printed on its body for quick reference. The diagram lays out the sequence of wires once you’ve stripped the casing, untangled the wires, and are straightening them to align with the pin grooves of the RJ45. It almost eliminates wiring errors.
It is also equipped with pass-thru connectors that neatly separate the wire for it to be placed perfectly into the RJ45 pin slots. It eases prep work and reduces wasted work. The grip is designed to be non-slip and compact to minimize hand strain. To ensure full connector termination it also comes with a full-cycle ratchet mechanism. It is compatible with wire gauge 28-22 AWG both flat and round. The handles also have ratchet locking for safety and comfortable crimping.
Pros:
- Pass-thru Connectors
- Printed wiring diagram
Cons:
- Not insulated
2. UbiGear RJ45 Crimper
UbiGear uses forward-thinking tech solutions to develop networking cables and accessories for professionals and DIY users. The brand sells tools & tool kits, network patch cables, LED strips & signs, and other relevant accessories.
The UbiGearCable tester can be used with RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 connectors. Along with the regular crimper the kit includes a tester, a wire stripper, and 100 RJ45 CAT5 modular plugs. It includes a LED display to indicate if the wires are properly connected. It doesn’t come with any battery or charger. The tester is very specific and specialized. It can correspondingly test double twisted cables for all the 8 wires and ground. It can not only judge wrong connections but also short and open circuits.
It also comes with a separate wire stripper. Although the body of the stripper isn’t sturdy and might nick other wires while stripping. The crimpers are also equipped with blades and you can also use a pair of scissors to make a cut and then take off the casing. The kit contains 100 pieces of RJ45 CAT5 modular plugs as well. At this price to get plugs is a bargain and saves the hassle of buying them separately.
UbiGear has also included a limited 1-year warranty in case any of the equipment turns out to be faulty.
Pros:
- All-around tester to check each wire from 1 to G
- Comes with 100 pieces of RJ45 connectors
Cons:
- Not a very reliable option
3. Trendnet RJ45 Crimper
TRENDnet is a reliable manufacturer of hardware tools and networking accessories. The brand has a large product portfolio including switches, power supply equipment, splitters & extenders, powerlines, cameras, patch panels, and network tools.
TRENDnet’s crimper is a solid option to consider at a very competitive price range. This tool for professionals can cut, strip, and crimp for 6 and 8 pins modular plugs. The ergonomic design is compact and easy to handle. The tool comes with an all-steel construction which provides durability and can be used for years. It has a built-in stripper and cutter so that you won’t have to reach out to any other equipment while crimping. This all-in-one tool makes the job easy and light.
It includes a ratchet mechanism to keep the handles closed when not in use. These features make sure that the cutting blades are not exposed which is very prone to cutting and other injuries. It is very easy on the hand and makes ancillary activities like cutting and stripping very easy and simple.
Pros:
- Great product at this price range
- Easy to handle design
Cons:
- The ratchet mechanism can be a little difficult to handle
4. Ywnegwe RJ45 Crimper
YWNEGWE is a relatively small brand. Nevertheless, the brand manufactures premium-grade durable tools that are perfect for professionals and DIY users. The brand’s flagship products are the RJ45 crimp tool kits. It also sells relevant networking accessories.
YWNEGWE’s modular crimper is made up of durable high carbon steel and the finishing is of black oxide which gives high performance. This is another crimper kit on our list at a very economic price. The whole package includes 20 pieces of RJ45 connectors (Cat5), 20 pieces of covers, a wire stripper, and a tester. The inclusion of supporting equipment hasn’t made the manufacturers compromise on the quality of the crimper.
The blades come with protectors like those found in high-end crimpers. Ratchet safety release ensures that the handles don’t spring back leading to any injuries. The black and blue grip stands out in terms of visibility and gives enhanced comfort. Crimping can be done for 6 and 8 pin connectors.
The kit includes 20 Cat5 RJ45 connectors and covers. The connectors are both Code A and B standard and of high quality. The kit also includes a network cable tester that will require an additional 9V battery. A separate wire stripper to take the casing off is also included in the kit.
Pros:
- It comes with connectors, testers, and a stripper at a great price
- Blade guard and ratchet safety present
Cons:
- No pass-through connectors
5. Hiija RJ45 Crimper
Hiija is another small brand that manufactures reliable crimping tools and networking accessories at affordable prices. Although being a small brand, Hiija is regarded highly for its responsive customer service.
Hiija’s crimping tool kit comes with a crimper, 50 RJ45 connectors, 50 connector covers, and a wire stripper. The crimper can crimp RJ45, RJ11 and RJ12 connectors. The crimper gives solid torque without bending as the body is made up of steel. The blades on the crimper are replaceable. The handles have textured grips to reduce fatigue and slipping. The end-pass-through crimper can be used for multiple cables like ethernet, CCTV, and media appliances.
The kit also packs a handful of connectors and covers. Along with these, there’s also a separate dedicated stripper to get that smooth casing cut without nicking any of the inner wires.
Hiija backs this crimper with an 18-month warranty period from the original date of purchase.
Pros:
- Provides solid torque without bending
- Durable steel body
Cons:
- The wire cuts are sometimes not clean
6. VCE RJ45 Crimper
VCE sources premium quality components and employees carefully engineered methods to manufacture high-performing products. The brand sells audio and video cables and adapters, USB-C cables, hand tools, wall plates, and networking accessories.
VCE’s crimper is a dedicated tool for the RJ45 connectors. The durable material ensures swift cutting and precise crimping. It is compatible with 8 pin connectors for Cat6, Cat5, Cat7, Cat5e, Cat6a cables. The PVC non-slip handle is designed in a compact way to allow an ergonomic and comfortable grip through the squeeze action.
It’s two-thirds the size of most crimpers giving you that extra space in your tool case and easy to carry around. There’s a separate button to lock and unlock the crimper while using. This gives you extra control over your operation with extra safety. You can even get matched modular plugs. It has the standard T568A or T568B wiring rules. It is priced a little higher than other crimpers in the market but the quality speaks for itself. It is professional-grade at that little elevated price tag.
This crimper comes with an 18-month warranty and lifetime customer support.
Pros:
- Dedicated tool for crimping RJ45 connectors
- The on and off lock button
Cons:
- The wire cuts are rougher on the edge
7. Platinum RJ45 Crimper
Platinum Connector develops a wide range of networking tools and accessories including connectors, keystone jacks, patch panels, tools, couplers, faceplates/wallplates, and patch cables.
Platinum Connector’s mini crimper passes through CAT5, 6 & 7 connectors to give that perfect and error-free crimp. It is made up of professional-grade heavy-duty steel for durability that can go through years of wear and tear. It comes with a black oxide finish that prevents rusting and corrosion. As the name suggests it is compact in size and is super easy to carry around.
It has the option of replacing the blade if you want an even sharper razor to trim your connectors. This tool is compatible with RJ45 connectors and RJ11 and RJ12 connectors (not AMP). Platinum Connector offers a 30-day money-back guarantee on this crimper.
Pros:
- Replaceable Blades
- Anti-rust coating
Cons:
- The trimming is sometimes imperfect
8. Ampcom RJ45 Crimper
Established in 2009, AMPCOM has been developing structured wiring solutions by leveraging advanced technology for more than a decade. The Chinese brand sells RJ45 connectors, RJ45 couplers, network tools, keystone jacks, patch panels, patch cables, and cable management solutions.
AMPCOM’s RJ45 crimping tool is made up of a burnished carbon multifunctional tool that can be used for stripping, cutting, and crimping. Its preciseness will help better your efficiency and improve the pass rate of the connectors. The crimper is compatible with Ethernet 8P8C and telephones modular plugs 6P4C, 6P6C,6P4C, 6P2C.
The frame is made up of corrosion-resistant high-quality tool steel and is designed for heavy-duty work. The handle has an ergonomic design and is textured to give a non-slip grip and force saving. It also comes up with a ratchet safety release along with a guard that covers the blade so that there is no risk of any injury. The kit also comes with an extra blade and a mini wire stripper.
Pros:
- Corrosion-resistant high-quality steelhead.
- Comes with an extra blade
Cons:
- The cutting blade can be awkward to use
9. PE Techtool RJ45 Crimper
PETechTool specializes in developing RJ45 connectors, crimpers, and relevant tools. The brand has a global customer base and is committed to ensuring 100 percent customer satisfaction.
Petechtool crimping tool can be used for trimming 8P8C and 6P6C modular connectors along with RJ45 connector ends and RJ12 connector. It is perfect for trimming telephone cables and ethernet patch cables of different lengths. It has a die-set feature that facilitates precise crimping for the pins of the connector. It punctures the cable’s insulation and places the twisted wires into the gold pins ensuring a clean connection.
It is made up of thick rolled steel that makes the crimper stable and rugged by ensuring consistency in terminating and connecting wires making always clean and crisp cuts. The set also comes with a replaceable blade for your easy replacement once the old one has gotten blunt and doesn’t cut cleanly anymore. The kit also contains 20 pieces of RJ45 connectors.
Pros:
- Value for money
- Strong and sturdy build, made up of steel
Cons:
- Pass through connectors aren’t that sharp
10. Knoweasy RJ45 Crimper
Knoweasy is one of the leading manufacturers of reliable and premium quality crimping tools, tool kits, hydraulic tools, network tools, cable cutters, cable strippers, cable tie tools, and network tools.
Knoweasy’s crimping tool gives all-around connecting support with its steel body which is made for heavy-duty crimping. The blades are also wear-resistant with sharp blades which gives easy and sharp cuts and ensures longevity so that the wire cut formations are uniform. The handles are textured so that it doesn’t slip and is comfortable for you to work with while striping or crimping.
It comes with a precise bayonet die which is useful during one-time molding to press with a blade. The crimper gives an expanded surface area to give a full uniform crimp when in contact for optimum accuracy. The tool can be used for RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 connectors for CAT3/CAT5e/CAT6 applications with the pass-through feature.
This crimper is backed by a 12-month warranty from the original date of purchase.
Pros:
- Sharp blades for longevity
- Comfortable textured handles
Cons:
- Hassle to cut the outside of the table
11. Klein Tools 005 RJ45 Crimper
Klein Tools, known for their reliable hand tools, makes a second appearance on our list. Being one of the oldest hardware brands, it manufactures a versatile range of products that are perfect for professionals and DIY users.
This compact modular pass-thru crimper is ideal for crimp-connector installations. Paired-conductor cables can be easily crimped without any hassle owing to Pass-Thru connector plugs. The pass-thru connectors also help in prep work time with its technology. The crimper comes with a wiring diagram on the body that works as a quick reference point for wire arrangement while crimping. This also makes sure that there’s no wire-wastage or reworking.
The blades give the trims a flush finish so that there is no contact break between the conductor ends. The tool comes with replaceable blades so that in case of wearing out, you don’t have to rush to find another. It’s important to note that the crimper is not insulated and will not protect against electrical shock..
Pros:
- The Pass-Thru modular crimp connector
- Wiring guide on the tool
Cons:
- Blade connected to a plastic arm
- Not insulated
12. Cable Matters RJ45 Crimper
Cable Matters is a popular brand that develops innovative connectivity solutions for home and office setups. The brand has a comprehensive product lineup of cables, converters, adapters, docking stations, and network products.
Cable Matters’ RJ45 is an ideal crimper for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts alike. The tool cuts, strips, and crips proficiently to attach with cat5e, cat 5, cat6 connectors, or any other connector that supports ethernet. The metal body, sharp cutting blades, and precision crimping give longer durability for this crimping RJ45 tool. The tool comes with a soft plastic grip to support a comfortable grip in addition to a fatigue-free experience.
The crimper supports 6P4C/RJ11, 6P6C/RJ-12, and 8P8C/RJ-45 network cables. The kit also includes 10 packs of RJ45 modular plugs making it a complete package if you’re working on a DIY project and won’t have to go hunting for modular pins. The tool crimps Cat6 but also functions as a Cat5 crimper and can also be used as a Cat5e crimper when used backward.
Pros:
- Easy-grip handle and ratchet lock
- The cutting and stripping tool
Cons:
- Does not include an on-body wiring diagram
Features to Check Before Purchasing the Best RJ45 Crimper
Welcome to the Buying Guide section of the article. Apart from the intended primary purpose, you should also consider the durability, comfort, and safety of the crimper. The following passage contains a complete list of features you should consider before purchasing the perfect RJ45 crimper.
1. Handheld vs. Hydraulic vs. Hammer
As the name has it, handheld crimpers are compact and are ideal for small wires. However, some high-end handheld crimpers also do a good job in crimping thick wires. The hydraulic crimpers apply more pressure and can easily strip thick wires. But they are expensive. Also, they are difficult to maintain and incur maintenance costs. You will have to replace the oil and filter periodically and ensure there is no dust inside.
The hammer crimpers are versatile options that can crimp a wide range of wires with the help of the moveable wedge. They are affordable too. The downside is it is time consuming and you have to exert more energy to crimp thick wires.
2. Durability
The RJ45 should be able to withstand tough work conditions and be able to cut thick cables for a long time. RJ45 crimpers made from cold-rolled are considered to be the most durable options. The whole body should have a sturdy build quality including the connector die and the handle. Having a crimper that can crimp thick cables easily will help you to achieve high precision.
3. Comfort and Ease of Use
RJ45 crimpers with a sturdy build quality often tend to be on the heavier side. Handling heavy crimpers is not an easy task and it will lead to less precision, especially if you are a beginner. So, it is important to strike a balance between the durability and the weight of the crimper. Also, most crimpers have a large head with a relatively small handle that can make it difficult to handle. So, go with a small and compact RJ45 crimper that is also lightweight.
Apart from this, some crimpers feature a ratchet that gives better control over the knobs’ tension. This can be a great option for beginners.
4. Safety
RJ45 crimpers are used for cutting, crimping, and stripping different types of wires and cables. So, it is very important that the RJ45 crimpers feature safety functions to protect you from injuries. For starters, the crimpers should have a blade guard to prevent accidental cuts. Plus, it should have a ratchet safety release. The handgrip should have a textured grip. This will not only provide comfort but will also ensure that you don’t lose your grip.
5. Warranty
No matter how durable and rugged the crimpers maybe, they are still susceptible to damage. So, it is important to get an RJ crimper backed by a warranty. The crimpers come with a warranty period ranging between 1-2 years. The warranty will not only protect your money but will also give you some peace of mind.
Conclusion
Still unable to choose the best RJ45 crimper? Please check out our favorite picks
- Ampcom RJ45 Crimper is the most affordable option on our list. The crimper supports three different modular connectors including RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45. Plus, it can crimp Cat6, CAT5e, and CAT5. It has 2 positions 6 and 8 that will suit your basic requirements.
- Cable Matters RJ45 Crimper is the ideal option for professionals. With a rugged build quality, the crimping tool lasts for a long time. It offers a high precision along with a fatigue-free crimping experience with the help of a soft plastic grip. It supports RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45 modular connectors along with CAT6 and CAT5e cables.
- Klein Tools RJ45 Crimper is the most versatile option on our list. It is compatible with a wide range of modular connectors and cables. It supports RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45. Plus, it supports CAT3, CAT5e, and CAT6/6A cables. Adding to this, it features 4,6, and 8 positions.
