An RJ45 crimping tool is a small handheld tool used to conjoin two pieces of metal by deforming them in a way that causes them to hold each other.
The best RJ45 crimpers provide fast and reliable crimps, can join CAT6 cables, and have a compact design with comfortable hand grips.
On the other hand, a lousy RJ45 crimper is just asking for a sore hand (and a headache). Unable to crimp even the weakest of ethernet cables, and fall apart within a month of buying them.
So to help you separate the good from the bad – we’ve reviewed the Top 6 RJ45 Crimpers of 2024.
Buy with the confidence that you’re buying one of the best RJ45 ethernet crimping tools on the market – easily able to slice through CAT5 and CAT6 cables. Let’s dive straight into the reviews.
Contents
Top 6 Best RJ45 Crimper (Ethernet Crimping)
| Preview | Product | Key Features | |
|---|---|---|---|
Best Overall  | TRENDnet Crimping Tool, Crimp, Cut, And Strip Tool, For Any Ethernet or... |
| CHECK PRICE |
Premium Choice  | Platinum Tools 100054C Clamshell EZ-Rjpro Hd Crimp Tool |
| CHECK PRICE |
Excellent Value  | Klein Tools VDV226-011-SEN Ratcheting Modular Crimper/Stripper |
| CHECK PRICE |
 | Fluke Networks 11212530 Modular Crimper |
| CHECK PRICE |
 | Epsilont EPS2000CRC 2-in-1 Crimping Tool and Cable Tester for 4P/6P/8P,... | CHECK PRICE | |
 | Gardner Bender GMC-1145D Premium Metal RG11 RJ45 Modular Plug Crimper , Red |
| CHECK PRICE |
1. TRENDnet RJ45 Crimper Tool
- Professional tool crimps, strips and cuts cable for 8 and 6 position modular plugs
- MANUFACTURER PROTECTION: We stand by the quality of our products.The TC-CT68 RJ-11/RJ-45 Crimp/Cut/Strip Tool is backed and supported with 1 year of TRENDnet Manufacturer Protection.
- NDAA + TAA COMPLIANT: With our NDAA and TAA compliant Crimping Tool, you can plan and install networking solutions that Government customers demand today (U.S. and Canada Only)
Explore the TRENDnet TC-CT68’s multifunctionality, expertly designed for crimping, cutting, and stripping tasks. Its durable steel construction ensures longevity and precise work with telephone and Ethernet cables. The integrated ratchet mechanism enhances safety by keeping the tool securely closed when not in use, combining practicality with peace of mind.
The design of this tool is compact, which offers ease of use and great hand grip of the tool. With its perfect style, it provides a professional approach and can be used to cut, strip, and crimp cables for 8- and 6-position modular plugs. In short, with this small compact tool, you can do a variety of your network-related tasks.
It can also be used for 8P/RJ-45, RJ-11, and 6P/RJ. As far as the price range of this tool is concerned, it is very low. You can easily afford the tool. It can be listed among the least expensive tools on our list of ethernet crimping tools.
Pros
- As it offers multiple functions such as stripping, cutting, and crimping, it may reduce the need for purchasing additional tools.
- Functions for 8P/RJ-45 and 6P/RJ-12, RJ-11.
- Compact size, easy to handle.
- With its compact size and user-friendly mechanism, it might be easy for newbies to work with this tool.
- Convenient ratchet mechanism.
- Great value for the money
Cons
- It may prove to be difficult releasing with its ratchet mechanism.
- Because of the alignment of its blades, you may have difficulty cutting and stripping.
Verdict
For all those people looking for a low-priced, high-quality crimping tool, this one should be their pick. It offers multiple functions, such as stripping, cutting, and crimping. Also, it is very easy to use and store, given its compact size.
2. Platinum Tools RJ45 Crimper
- Ratcheted, high leverage and stable platform for consistent, repeatable terminations
- Patented "crimp and trim system" delivers a clean, flush trim on the extended conductors for all EZ Connectors
- Tool steel die head assembly provides 360 degrees of connector support
Designed for the expert user, the Platinum Tools 100054C Crimp Tool is a pinnacle of quality, built from superior materials. It delivers consistent, dependable terminations, ideal for heavy-duty wire crimping, and ensures precision in every task, facilitating a smooth workflow.
This tool can be used on a wide variety of connectors. It is compatible with all EZ-RJ45 and EZ-RJ12/11 connectors, as well as with standard modular plugs. It can be operated on the mentioned connectors and plugs, however not on AMP. While crimping hard insulations and pairing separating splines, this tool offers terminations that fulfill FCC specifications.
This crimping tool comes with a ratcheted mechanism, a steady platform, and high leverage to provide consistent and repeatable terminations. The 100054C tool also comes with a built-in cutter and stripper for round and flat cables. It also contains a laser marked with a wiring guide to help the user with appropriate wire succession.
On the extensive conductors of all types of EZ connectors, this tool provides a clean and flush trim with its “crimp and trim system.” With its tight zero-flex frame, it avoids losing torque. The die head assembly of this crimping tool provides connector support of 360 degrees. It ensures uniform crimping force through its complete surface-to-surface contact.
Aside from having amazing features, the price range of this crimping tool is quite high. It can be listed in the category of the most expensive tools in our collection of ethernet crimping tools.
Pros
- Zero flex frame prevents torque loss during the crimping cycle.
- Tool steel die head assembly provides 360 degree of connector support during crimp.
- Best CAT6 Crimp tool (also works for CAT5e cables)
- Laser marked with wiring guide for proper wire sequence.
- Clean, ultra flush trim on the EZ-RJ45 extended conductors.
- Ratcheted, high leverage and stable platform for consistent, repeatable terminations.
- Full surface to surface contact delivers uniform crimp force.
Cons
- Slightly pricier than other options
Verdict
This crimping tool can crimp a large variety of connectors and plugs. While maintaining FCC specification, it can offer consistent, repeating, and neat terminations, along with the safe handling of the tool. The price range of this tool is also high, but its high quality and outstanding results are worth it.
3. Klein Tools RJ45 Crimper Tool
- Fast, reliable modular-crimp connector installation for voice and data applications.
- All-In-One Tool, cuts, strips and crimps paired-conductor cables (round STP/UTP and flat-satin phone cable).
- Crimps 4, 6, and 8 position modular connectors (RJ22, RJ11/RJ12, and RJ45).
Trust in the VDV226-011-SEN Ratcheting Modular Crimper’s dependability, a testament to Klein Tools’ commitment to quality. The tool’s durable steel and black oxide finish promise long-lasting performance, and its eye-catching black and yellow appearance ensures it’s easily spotted in your toolkit.
This tool offers quick and reliable modular-crimp connector installation for all voice and data apps. Besides crimping, it can also serve as a cutter and stripper that is able to crimp paired-conductor cables. It can function properly on round STP/UTP and flat-satin phone cables.
This tool can crimp modular connectors of 4-, 6- and 8-position, which includes RJ22, RJ11/RJ12, and RJ45 connectors. It is intended for the Western Electric/Stewart Stamping type of modular connectors. It also comes with ratchet release and blade-guard to keep the user safe from injuries.
The price range of this crimping tool is average. It can be listed among the middle-priced tools in our list of ethernet crimping tools.
Pros
- Fast, reliable modular-crimp connector installation for voice and data applications
- Great value for the money
- Steel body with black-oxide finish for excellent performance and durability
- Crimps 4, 6, and 8 position modular connectors (RJ22, RJ11/RJ12, and RJ45)
- Excellent CAT6 Crimper Tool (also works for CAT5e, CAT6, CAT6A)
Cons
- As it does not come with a cutter along with crimp, you may need to buy this separately.
- It may become difficult to turn its releasing knob due to its small size and increased tension.
Verdict
Manufactured from a trustworthy company, the VDV226-011-SEN crimper offers a durable body, along with high-quality crimping results and ease of use. It also offers safety to its users. If you are looking for high quality, average-priced crimping tool, then go for this tool.
4. Fluke Networks RJ45 Crimper Tool
- Crimps 8 position RJ 45 connectors and 4 and 6 position RJ 11 and RJ 12 connectors
- Embedded flat cable cutter and stripper
- Steel construction with ratchet mechanism
Fluke Networks’ 11212530 Modular Crimper exemplifies their reputation for high-quality toolmaking. It adeptly crimps 8-position RJ-45 connectors along with 4- and 6-position RJ-11 and RJ-12 connectors, showcasing its versatility and precision in every crimp.
Expand your toolkit’s capabilities with this multifunctional crimper, which not only crimps but also cuts and strips flat cables efficiently. Constructed from high-grade steel for longevity and featuring a practical ratchet mechanism, it promises durability along with effortless operation. The color of this crimper is black with a combination of bright yellow to make it stand out among other tools in a toolbox.
As far as the price range of this modular crimper is concerned, it is average. We can categorize this tool among the list of the middle-priced tools in our ethernet crimping tool collection.
Pros
- Easy to use because if its ratchet mechanism.
- It is easy for you to locate this tool due to its bright-yellow color.
- You may feel easy to carry this single tool, as it can also serve the purposes of cutting and stripping.
- It can be very durable due to its steel body.
Cons
- You may feel the tool is problematic because of its inappropriate locking mechanism.
Verdict
This modular crimper can offer you durability, ease-of-use, and it can serve multiple functions. The price range is also average. If you are looking for a crimping tool for your DIY projects, then you should go for this one.
5. Epsilon RJ45 Crimper Tool
Epsilon’s EPS2000CRC Crimping Tool stands out for its multifaceted functionality. It excels not just in crimping but also as a wire stripper, cutter, and network cable tester, offering comprehensive solutions for your cabling needs with a single tool.
It is made up of durable design and high-quality materials to produce a product that will offer a lifetime of adequate functioning. Its steel body, along with its black oxide finishing, offers a sturdy, rust-free tool. This crimping tool can terminate 4-wire RJ11, 6-wire RJ12, and 8-wire RJ45 Modular Plugs.
It offers convenience and fine results through its sharp blades. Its tester can test the cables of RJ11, RJ12, and RJ45. With the help of its ratchet mechanism and plastic sturdy handles, it offers great control on tension and ease of use. It can be operated easily without using extra force.
Despite having outstanding features, the price range of this crimping tool is very average. You can afford it without putting an extra burden on your finances. It can be listed among the average-priced tools in our list of ethernet crimping tools.
Pros
- It will give you very neat cuts due to its sharp blades.
- Highly convenient for you because of its all-in-one features.
- With this crimping tool, you would not need to buy a cable tester separately.
- It has the ability to resist rusting with its black oxide finishing.
Cons
- As it does not come with batteries, so you would need to insert batteries on your own.
- The absence of a switch on its tester might make testing cables slightly difficult for you.
Verdict
In an average price range, this crimping tool can give you four-in-one functioning, along with a sturdy body and ease of use. It also possesses a ratchet mechanism and handles to ensure easy operation for the user.
6. Gardner Bender RJ45 Crimper Tool
- The product is RJ11/RJ45 Crimping Tool
- Easy to use
- The product is manufactured in China
The Gardner Bender Modular Plug Crimper is used to crimp RJ11 and RJ45 connectors. This tool is made in China. With the help of its heat-treated steel frame, it offers durability.
This tool comes with comfortable handles, which offer great grip and ease of use. It can be used to crimp, cut, and strip patch and handset wires.
The price range of this tool is average. It can be listed among the average-priced tools in our ethernet crimping tool category.
Pros
- It is a durable tool for you because of its heat-treated steel body frame.
- Extremely comfortable handles
- Besides crimping, it can also assist you in cutting and stripping wires.
- Its bright red color may assist you in finding this tool easily among other tools.
Cons
- As it offers crimping for limited connectors, you may need to buy another tool for other connectors.
Verdict
This tool can offer reliable results and ease of use. Though it can be used on limited connectors, in this price range, it can be a good purchase.
Buying Guide
Our buying guide is designed to enlighten you with essential considerations and expert answers for selecting the ideal ethernet crimping tool, ensuring you make an informed decision tailored to your needs.
What are the basic attributes of a good crimping tool?
While purchasing a crimping tool, keep in mind that your tool should be consistent, repeatable, and reliable. These features mean that your tool should have the ability to perform its functions every time it is used or required.
If your tool is lacking consistency, your cable connections will be faulty, which will result in a poor signal. Repeatability means you should be able to perform terminations repeatedly before undergoing permanent change.
What should be the size of your crimping tool?
The size of your crimping tool should be such that it is able to crimp connectors of various sizes. Most importantly, your crimper should have the ability to crimp 4-, 6- and 8-position modular connectors.
What other features should be considered while purchasing a crimping tool?
Besides the basic attributes mentioned in the previous answer, your crimping tool should offer you the ease of use. It should have a ratchet mechanism to control the tension of its knob. Its handles should offer a great grip. It should have guards to protect any accidents or injuries. Above all, it needs to be affordable.
How do you keep your crimping tool maintained?
Like all other things, your crimping tool also needs maintenance and care. Still, it doesn’t require extensive care. You simply need to keep it in a safe place where its functioning parts never get deformed. You should also refrain from using your tool where it is not capable of performing a function. Use your tool according to its capability. This can not only increase the life of your tool but can also save you from many accidents.
Conclusion
We have discussed several crimping tools and other related things. If you were not familiar with crimping tools before, then after reading this article, you hopefully now have a clearer idea about crimping and ethernet crimping tools.
We have provided a list of a few ethernet crimping tools, along with their details. Each tool is suitable for the features that it offers. However, still, if we are asked to choose the best among all of these tools, then our pick would be the Epsilon EPS2000CRC Crimping Tool. The reasons for this choice are many. The main reason for our choice is due to its attribute of offering 4-in-one functioning, as well as the fact that it is in the average price range. Its other features include durability, reliability, and consistency.
