Herbert Miller
It is easy to accomplish our carpentry works with an innovative nailer. We do not like to use a hose and compressor for small nailing jobs. That is why both professionals and hobbyists prefer using the finish nailer to deal with their carpentry jobs smoothly. With this nail gun, you can ensure perfection in every nail job. The finish nailers are available in corded and cordless versions. Although the corded ones are highly effective, you will enjoy portability with your cordless finish nailers. There are cordless nailers of different brands and models. Thus, we have picked the best ones for our review.
We have picked the top-rated cordless finish nailers with a range of features. You can compare those features and price rates to buy the right one.
Disclaimer – This article may contain affiliate links, this means that at no cost to you, we may receive a small commission for qualifying purchases.
Best overall
PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Finish Nailer
- Battery-driven device
- Multiple tool-free settings
- Magazine capacity- 100 nails
Best budget
Ryobi P325 One+ 16 Gauge Finish Nailer
- Tool-free adjustments
- Low nail indicator
- A separate trigger for safety
1. PORTER-CABLE 20V MAX Finish Nailer
Porter-Cable finish nailer is one of the most reliable products for carpenters and other professionals. The battery-operated device eliminates the need for using a compressor. The cordless nailer provides you with a number of adjustable settings. It is easy to set up the finish nailer and increase your productivity. With a single charge, you can use up to 1000 nailers.
The nailer is capable of holding 100 nails in its magazine. That is why you do not need to refill your gun frequently. You can charge its 4.0 amp hour battery and continue using the device for long hours. In fact, the reduced recoil is one of the advantages of using the 16-gauge finish nailer. There is no risk of misfires and jams.
This Porter-Cable finish nailer has one firing mode. You need to pull the trigger and depress the tip every time you fire. The lockout switch below the trigger ensures your safety.
While analyzing the design, we have found that this nailer has a consistent design and a large profile. Although it has a top-heavy model, you will not feel inconvenience in carrying the device.
Pros
- Retains charge for a long period
- Tool-free settings
- Lightweight design
- High magazine capacity
Cons
- Not best for tight spaces
2. Ryobi P325 One+ 16 Gauge Finish Nailer
As one of the cordless finish nailers, this device can simplify your nail driving efforts. The durable device needs a quality 18V Lithium-Ion battery for its operation. To install trims, frame nails, reinforce joints and do several other nailing tasks, you can rely on this tool.
With a single charge of the battery-operated nail gun, you can shoot up to 800 nails. Thus, we think that you do not need to charge the device more than once a day. By adjusting the air pressure, you can place nails on the wooden boards and other objects with ease. The rear side of the tool has a sliding scale to control the air pressure using one finger.
The depth is also easily adjustable by turning a knob to the left and right direction. You do not need to use additional tools to manage the depths of every shot. Another unique feature of the tool is the low nail indicator that enables you to reload the system with nails at the right time.
Pros
- Easy jam clearing
- LED light indicator
- Easy depth adjustment
Cons
- Bulky design
3. BOSTITCH BCN650D1 Finish Nailer
BOSTITCH BCN650D1 is a high quality 15-gauge 20 V Max angled finish nailer.
With the lithium-ion battery and a plastic body, this nail gun is best for most of the DIY enthusiasts. Like most other nail guns, this device has brushless motors. Moreover, there is a flawless engine design to drive the finish nails of dimensions ranging from 1-1/4″ to 2-1/2″. You can choose this nail gun for a range of jobs.
The nose part is narrow to make sure that you can view the targeted part clearly. You can easily place the nail in the right spot.
BOSTITCH has tried to add the ultimate value to the device. The LED lights are multi-functional parts, as they can do something more than illuminating the workspace. You may use them for tool diagnostics. Besides, you will find a tool-free jam release with this device.
The package includes a battery, finish nailer, charger, adjustable belt hook, and kit bag. These features of BOSTITCH BCN650D1 have drawn the attention of several users.
Pros
- Easy to clear nail jams
- Accurate nail placement
- High longevity and durability
Cons
- No complaint
4. Makita XNB02Z 18V Cordless Finish Nailer
With a high-end motor design, this cordless finish nailer is best for working with wooden objects. The choice of the right tools helps in avoiding marks and dents, and thus, Makita cordless nailer is the perfect option for you. When you are using nails of 1” to 2-1/2”, you can shoot up to 1000 straight finish nails. The cordless design ensures high convenience, and you do not need a compressor to do it.
One of the unique features of this tool is that it has an anti-dry fire mechanism. This special feature prevents your nail guns from driving blanks. Moreover, while any damaged nails are in the way, the device will stop its functions. Thus, there will be no scratch marks on the surface, and you will not lose pins unnecessarily. The reversible belt clip is also a useful feature, which enables the device to remain close. The 16-gauge straight finish nailer needs a 5.0 AH lithium-ion battery for its performance. Another noticeable feature of the device is the compact center height that helps you to view the nose tips easily.
Pros
- No need to use fuel
- AH battery
- Portable and compact
- Works with straight nails
Cons
- Battery not included in the package
5. DEWALT 20V MAX Finish Nailer
DeWalt DCN660B is one of the uniquely designed nail guns with a lithium-ion battery and a brushless motor. This low-maintenance nailer works with high efficacy. The package includes an additional 12V battery with chargers for both batteries.
The 16-gauge angled finish nailer can deal with more than 2000 nails with a single charge. Use a powerful 5.0Ah lithium-ion battery to make your task easy with this nailer.
Moreover, multi-functional LED lights and an adjustable belt hook are the two most notable features of this nailer. LEDs enable you to check the battery status and recharge it at the right time. What’s more, you will receive an audible alert when you have not charged the battery.
DeWalt has designed an utterly tool-free system, as you do not need to use additional tools to set up the device. Its magazine can handle up to 110 nails. So, you will find it easy to load the magazine with nails.
There are two firing modes with this device- Bumping and sequential. Based on your preference, you may choose the right one.
Pros
- Easy angled operation
- Best battery life
- Multiple modes
- Compact design
Cons–
- Can stuck in some cases
6. Hitachi NT1865DM Cordless Finish Nailer
We have chosen this Hitachi cordless finish nailer for trim nailing and finish nailing needs. This compact nail gun needs 3.0 Ah Lithium-Ion Battery for its performance. As it has a brushless motor, it continues its function for a longer period and does not need much maintenance.
To make your nailer easier and effortless, you may choose between bump fire and sequential modes. The magazine has the capacity of holding up to 100 nails with a dimension of 1” to 2 1/2”. Without using any tool, you can adjust the depth of your drive. The manufacturer has claimed that you can drive more than 2 nails per second.
The power button is easily accessible, as it is present at the base of the handle. Press the button and activate the nailer.
Pros
- Highly durable design
- Small battery- High potential
- Easy depth adjustment
- Ergonomic soft grip
Cons
- Noising problem
7. DEWALT DC618K XRP Cordless Finish Nailer
DEWALT DC618K XRP is one of the cordless, lightweight finish nailers with a superb engine. By using this device, you can easily penetrate both soft and hard joints without any issue. While the sequential mode of operation ensures precision placement, the bump operating mode helps with a better production speed.
Another notable feature of the device is the integrated LED light. Although your workspace has very low light, you can continue doing your work. The 20-degree angled magazine also uses 20-degree angled nails. Moreover, one of the amazing features of the device is its contact trip lock-off that helps in disabling the trigger. While you are not using the product, you may use this lock system.
Manufacturers have designed the engine thoughtfully to ensure consistent and smooth nail penetration. The magazine can contain up to 120 nails of Dewalt and most other brands. What’s more, the rear-load magazine simplifies the loading process and makes the device highly versatile to users.
In terms of visibility and protection, this device has gained the attention of several professionals like carpenters and cabinetmakers. Due to the angled magazine and narrow nose, you can fit it into the tight space.
Pros
- Powerful engine
- Two operating modes
- Easy to maneuver
- Impact-resistant, easily removable top cap
Cons
- Slight durability issues
8. CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Finish Nailer Kit
We have chosen another 16-gauge cordless nailer kit with a cordless design. Regardless of materials and weather conditions, you can maintain consistency in firing power. The 20V max battery used in this device is compatible with the series of products from Craftsman. Thus, when you have other Craftsman V20 tools, you may use this battery with them.
Although it is a compact design, you will find amazing battery power in this device. Using this 20V battery, you can drive up to 375 nails (2 inches). Thus, with a single charge, you may shoot lots of nails and save your time. However, we think that this device is best for dealing with light nailing jobs in your home workshop.
For an easy setup, you can find tool-free depth settings and stall settings. Due to the tool-free jam settings, you can use the device without hassle. The integrated belt hook makes it convenient to store the storage at any place. To ensure ergonomics, manufacturers have used over-molded handles.
Pros
- Contoured handle
- High-performance batteries
- Drive several nails with every charge
Cons
- Not perfect for your professional use
9. Paslode, Cordless Finish Nailer
Paslode has offered a perfectly designed finish nailer to deal with the baseboard corners and other tight spaces. The special angled magazine enables you to reach the tightest spots and accomplish every task accurately. Thus, use this tool to minimize your efforts for nail placement.
Although this cordless finish nailer has a sturdy construction, it has a lightweight design. That is why you will feel better comfort and ultimate control of the device. With one charge of the 7V Li-ion battery, you can drive up to 12000 nails. Thus, as you do not need to charge your device frequently, you can reduce the risk of downtime.
Thus, the fuel cell-powered device has high maneuverability, and you may place the nail in any way you like. While working on ladders and any other risky site, you can choose this finish nailer. Non-stop accuracy is one of the major reasons for which we have chosen this device.
Pros
- No markings and scratches on the surface
- Easy to replace fuel cells
- No bulky design
Cons
- Slightly costly
10. Metabo HPT Cordless Framing Nailer Kit
Metabo HPT has made its product unique, as its nailer is both an air-operated and battery-operated device. There is a special air spring drive system to sink in your nails. The permanently trapped air has the potential of pushing out the nails. The cordless nailer is capable of driving plastic strip nails measuring 2” to 3 1/2”. You can drive 2 nails every second. With a single charge, you can use up to 400 nails.
There are two modes with this device- bump fire mode and sequential mode. You may switch between these modes based on your needs. Moreover, the cordless nailer has a brushless motor that lasts for hours with every charge. It does not need much maintenance and ensures high durability despite your regular use. Metabo HPT has made it easy for you to store the nailer due to the pivoting rafter hook.
Pros
- Zero ramp up time
- Easy to drive nails
- Tool-less adjustment
Cons
- Must have better ergonomics
Guide to buying a cordless finish nailer
Finish nailers are versatile tools useful for decorating, molding, roofing, and several other tasks. They help you in driving nails into thick concrete materials, wooden panels, and other materials.
Nowadays, most of the professionals use cordless finish nailers that do not need a hose, compressor, and wall outlet. Cordless nailers work in a way different from that of pneumatic nailers. However, some cordless nailers have both gas-powered and battery-powered options. We have reviewed battery-powered finish nailers for your needs.
Brad nailers are different from finish nailers
While searching for nailers, you may come across these two terms. Brad nailers deal with brad nails, whereas finish nailers are for placing finish nails. When you have not chosen the right nails, your system will have a blockage.
Brad nails have 18-gauge steel wires (representing the thickness of nails), and finish nails are 16-gauge wires. These nails are best for nailing baseboards and cabinets. Some finish nailers are also available for dealing with 15-gauge nails.
To buy the best finish nailer, you have to focus on a range of factors.
Angled and straight
While driving nails, you need to choose between the angled and straight techniques. To deal with corners, it is better to choose the angled nailer.
When you think of driving directly into the workpiece, you may prefer the straight nailer.
Nail depth and size adjustment
You have to check out these two factors while buying a finish nailer. The best device helps you in adjusting the nail depth without additional tools. Moreover, the nail size that works with the device is another relevant thing for buyers.
Magazine capacity
The higher capacity of the nail gun’s capacity eliminates the need for loading it with nails several times. Standard nail guns have a capacity of holding 300 nails, while premium models have a higher capacity.
Modes
The best cordless finish nailers are battery-driven devices. Their battery Volts and Amperage can make a difference in the result. These devices work in two modes- one mode is for shooting single nails, and the other one is the continuous mode for trimming. The continuous mode saves battery life and time.
Comfort and safety
Some tools have fans clearing away the workspace. You must also check the design of tips and the noise level at the time of operating the device. Moreover, the nailer has to be portable and lightweight in design.
Conclusion
We have taken the time to review the best quality cordless finish nailers from reliable brands. We have checked the quality and battery power of these devices. Read our reviews thoroughly and purchase the right product for your needs.
