9 Best Wire Cutters (Review) In 2020

The IRWIN VISE-GRIP diagonal cutting pliers deliver a great combination of handling comfort, cutting ability, and pocket-friendly cost. They might not be the most powerful choice out there but are undeniably the best wire cutters for most users. Their main advantage is the unrivaled cutting ability delivered at a fraction of the cost of other famous brands. Padded handles enhance comfort, while the sharp jaws can slice through all kinds of wire, from electrical to hardware cloth. Sure, the IRWIN VISE-GRIP might not be the best choice for hard-duty jobs, such as cutting nails, nor for repetitive jobs, due to the shorter handles. They also tick points in the looks department and come in various sizes. Obviously, the tool meets or exceeds all ANSI standards, and comes with a lifetime warranty. More than enough reasons to convince us that this wire cutter is our best choice.

Ideal for hobbyists and professionals alike, the Klein Tools Wire Cutter and Stripper is one of the most versatile tools around. The spring-loaded handles deliver comfortable operation, while clearly marked wire-stripping holes make it a solid choice for electricians as well as AV hobbyists. It works brilliantly with 8-20 AWG solid and 10-22 AWG stranded wires. Either for cutting or stripping, all you have to do is squeeze the handle to get the job done. The wire cutter is made of cast alloy and boasts a heavy-duty Ecoat finish that provides resistance to corrosion while enhancing durability. So, if you’re looking for a wire stripper and cutter in one, this option from Klein Tools might be it.

The CRAFTSMAN diagonal wire cutter tool is a dependable choice for passionate hobbyists. It features a compound cutting mechanism designed to provide an increased cutting force with minimum effort. Made from drop forged steel, it guarantees strength and durability, even under heavy-duty usage. Another highlight is the induction-hardened cutting edges that maintain their sharpness over time. You can expect a powerful jaw capable of slicing through cables, nails, and bolts. The steel handle is as strong as the jaws and comes covered with thick rubber sleeves that improve comfort and grip. Besides diagonal, this wire cutter comes in a linesman model too. Regardless of your choice, you’ll get a convenient lifetime warranty, so you can invest in it without worries.

All it takes is a quick look to understand that the IRWIN VISE-GRIP Wire Stripping Tool / Wire Cutter is the apotheosis of wire cutting and stripping. The tool encompasses sophistication and efficiency, appealing above all to the pros. Deserving a special place on our list of best wire cutters, this versatile tool looks complicated, but it’s actually really easy to use. Its relatively complex look is not just a gimmick; the cable cutter really serves a multitude of purposes. Perhaps its greatest strength is the self-adjusting mechanism that adjusts the jaw automatically to fit the size of the wire being stripped or cut – safe to say we’re looking at an automatic wire stripper. Jaw self-adjusting apart, another highlight is the fact that you can control the length of its core strip thanks to an efficient stopper mechanism. Ideal for 10-22 AWG wires, it also impresses with a pliers style nose that allows for pulling and looping the wires. Furthermore, it can also cut nails or bolts. What else could you wish for?

Moving forward with our wire cutters list, the Klein Tools 11055 wire cutter, and wire stripper is an excellent choice for hobbyists. Coming at a price that won’t break the bank, it impresses with a strong-gripping serrated nose that allows for easy pulling, bending, and shaping. Dedicated holes make it easy to loop and bend the wire as needed, while the easy-to-read markings enhance operation. The tool is ideal for 10-18 AWG solid and 12-20 AWG stranded wires. Precision stripping holes bring further value, not to mention it can even cut cleanly a variety of screws. Technical details apart, we also like the design. Unlike other cable cutters that are awkward to use, this one stands out with its double-dipped comfort grips and ergonomic, curved handles. As you can expect, the tool comes in various sizes, including a model with handles that glow in the dark.

The Hakko Micro Cutter tops the charts as one of the best wire cutters on the market. A reliable tool for a variety of purposes, it’s praised by users across the globe, including ourselves. Its greatest feature is the slightly angled, 8mm long jaw designed for accurately cutting copper wires. Not only can it cut wires up to 16-gauge, but it’s particularly suitable for terminal wires, courtesy of its 21-degree reverse angled head, and cutting surface. Another great feature is the internal spring that quickly readjusts the cutter to the original position after use. The wire cutter is made of coated steel that prevents glare while also enhancing durability and corrosion resistance. No doubt, an excellent choice for pros and amateurs in need of a good microwire cutter.

Slim, slender, and made of chrome molybdenum alloy steel, the BOENFU is one of the best precision wire cutters on the market. What makes it stand out is the specially hardened edge that makes it easy to cut even the hardest wires, as well as nail, screws, and other items. A small yet powerful jaw can deal with materials up to 1.8mm thick, including eye pins, small chains, cords, beading, and so on. As a result, it’s more than a handy tool to have in your arsenal. It also appeals to DIYers and hobbyists, especially those involved in jewelry making. Easy to handle, this affordable wire cutter also boasts comfortable non-slip grips on the handles, that not only enhance ergonomics, but that also enhance safety. Besides wires, the tool can also cut through thin plastic, a feature that boosts its versatility.

Designed with hobbyists in mind, the Fiskars Crafts DIY Precision Wire Cutter is the ideal tool for your creative project needs. A slim profile and light weight make it super-easy to maneuver, even for smaller hands. Sharp, angled edges allow you to make precise cuts on thinner or thicker wires alike, and you can also use the tool for cutting other materials, including thin sheets of metal and plastic. Size apart, we also like the soft grip touch points designed to enhance comfort. Furthermore, a spring keeps the tool open when you’re not cutting, reducing hand fatigue. Backed by a lifetime warranty and coming at a price that won’t break the bank, this handy wire cutter is an excellent choice for all your DIY projects and small gadget repair chores.

The last entry on our list of best wire cutters comes from Klein Tools. These heavy-duty pliers were designed specifically for rebar work, helping you cut soft annealed rebar tie wire in the blink of an eye. Their greatest highlight is the 13-degree angled head that makes it very easy to use in confined spaces. Another great feature is the ergonomic grip, ensured by the hooked handle. Delivering high leverage power, it can slice even through the toughest wires without too much effort from your side. It misses a spring to keep it open, but the beveled jaws and hot rivet make up for the drawback. All in all, an excellent choice for contractors, homeowners, and anyone working with rebar.