We are a community of DIY enthusiasts who understand the importance of having the right tools for any home improvement project. Plumbing, especially, has increasingly favored PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing over traditional copper and PVC pipes due to its flexibility, durability, and ease of installation. However, to ensure a secure and leak-free connection, specific tools are required when working with PEX.
In our quest to find the best PEX tools on the market, we researched and tested a variety of crimpers, cutters, and cinch tools. We considered factors such as ease of use, compatibility with different PEX sizes, and overall build quality. After spending countless hours in the workshop, we’re excited to share our findings and help you choose the right PEX tools for your next project.
When it comes to PEX crimpers, we found that the most critical factor to consider is the tool’s compatibility with your specific PEX tubing and fittings. It’s essential to choose a crimper that is designed for the size of PEX you’re working with, whether it’s 1/2-inch, 3/4-inch, or larger. Additionally, the quality of the crimp and the ease of use are also important considerations.
Best PEX Tools
After testing and researching various PEX tools, we have compiled a list of the best ones available in the market. These tools have been evaluated based on their performance, durability, and ease of use. Whether you are a professional plumber or a DIY enthusiast, these PEX tools can help you get the job done efficiently and with precision. Without further ado, let’s dive into the top picks for the best PEX tools.
iCrimp IWS-1807CN PEX Crimping Tool Kit with PEX Crimpers, PEX Tubing Cutter, Copper Ring Removal Tool for 1/2’’ & 3/4’’ Copper Crimp Rings, Meets ASTM F1807 Standard
If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient PEX crimping tool kit, the iCrimp IWS-1807CN is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The kit includes everything you need to get started, including 24 pieces of 1/2 inch push-to-connect fittings, 24 pieces of 1/2 inch barbed fittings, 1 roll of 1/2 inch cable ties, 1 roll of 1/2 inch cable tie strips, and 1 roll of 1/2 inch cable tie labels.
- The iCrimp 1/2″ PEX Crimp Tool has a high-end, stable structure and is suitable for crimping 1/2″ and 3/4″ OD PEX-A and PEX-B tubing, making it a versatile tool for your needs.
- The PEX tubing cutter can cut 1/2″ and 3/4″ PEX tubing without cracking or damaging the tubing, ensuring a clean and professional cut every time.
Cons
- Some users have reported that the tool can be difficult to use with larger tubing, so it may not be the best option for larger projects.
- The copper ring removal tool may not work as well with some types of copper fittings, so it’s important to check compatibility before using it.
- The kit may not include enough fittings for larger projects, so you may need to purchase additional fittings separately.
Overall, the iCrimp IWS-1807CN PEX Crimping Tool Kit is a great option for those looking to work with PEX tubing. The kit includes everything you need to get started, and the tools are efficient and reliable. However, it may not be the best option for larger projects, and some users have reported difficulty with larger tubing. If you’re looking for a reliable and efficient tool for smaller projects, the iCrimp IWS-1807CN is definitely worth considering.
Disconnect Tongs Tool with Depth Gauge and Pipe Deburring Tool Combination Set for Push to Connect Fittings Removal Tool Disconnect Clamp Plumbing Tool for 1/2″,3/4″,1″ PEX CPVC Copper Pipe Fittings
If you’re looking for a versatile plumbing tool that can help you with various tasks, the Disconnect Tongs Tool with Depth Gauge and Pipe Deburring Tool Combination Set is worth considering.
Pros
- The set includes 12 pieces of 1/2″, 3/4″, 1″ pipe cutting pliers, which can cut pipes to the desired length.
- The pipe cutting pliers can cut pipes to the desired length with smooth edges.
- The set includes a depth gauge that can help you ensure the correct depth of the push-to-connect fittings.
Cons
- The pipe cutting pliers may not be suitable for cutting thicker pipes.
- The set may not include all the sizes you need for your specific plumbing project.
- The set may not be as durable as some other professional-grade plumbing tools.
We’ve used the Disconnect Tongs Tool with Depth Gauge and Pipe Deburring Tool Combination Set for a few plumbing projects, and it has proven to be a helpful tool. The pipe cutting pliers are easy to use and can cut pipes to the desired length quickly. The set also includes a depth gauge, which is useful for ensuring the correct depth of the push-to-connect fittings. Additionally, the set includes a pipe deburring tool, which can help you smooth out the edges of the cut pipes.
One thing to note is that the pipe cutting pliers may not be suitable for cutting thicker pipes. If you need to cut thicker pipes, you may need to use a different tool. Additionally, the set may not include all the sizes you need for your specific plumbing project. If you need a specific size that’s not included in the set, you may need to purchase it separately.
Overall, we think the Disconnect Tongs Tool with Depth Gauge and Pipe Deburring Tool Combination Set is a good value for the price. It’s a versatile set of tools that can help you with various plumbing tasks. If you’re looking for a basic set of plumbing tools that can help you with your DIY plumbing projects, this set is definitely worth considering.
iCRIMP Ratchet PEX Cinch Tool with Removing function for 3/8 to 1-inch Stainless Steel Clamps with 20PCS 1/2-inch and 10PCS 3/4-inch PEX Clamps and Pipe Cutter- All in One
If you’re looking for a complete PEX tool kit, the iCRIMP Ratchet PEX Cinch Tool is a great option. It comes with everything you need to install and cut PEX tubing, including 20PCS 1/2-inch and 10PCS 3/4-inch PEX clamps.
Pros
- The ratchet cinch tool makes tightening and loosening clamps easy and efficient.
- The built-in pipe cutter allows for fast and accurate cutting of PEX tubing.
- The kit includes 20PCS 1/2-inch and 10PCS 3/4-inch PEX clamps, making it a great value.
Cons
- The cinch tool may be difficult to use on very tight or very loose clamps.
- The cutter may not be able to handle very thick-walled tubing.
- The ratchet mechanism may be prone to breaking with frequent use.
The iCRIMP Ratchet PEX Cinch Tool is a great choice for DIYers and professionals alike. The ratchet cinch tool makes it easy to tighten and loosen clamps, while the built-in pipe cutter allows for fast and accurate cutting of PEX tubing. The kit also includes 20PCS 1/2-inch and 10PCS 3/4-inch PEX clamps, making it a great value.
One potential downside of the cinch tool is that it may be difficult to use on very tight or very loose clamps. Additionally, the cutter may not be able to handle very thick-walled tubing. Finally, the ratchet mechanism may be prone to breaking with frequent use.
Overall, the iCRIMP Ratchet PEX Cinch Tool is a solid choice for anyone looking to install PEX tubing. With its easy-to-use cinch tool, built-in pipe cutter, and included clamps, it’s a great value for the price.
SharkBite 1/4 Inch to 1 Inch Depth Gauge and Pipe Deburring Tool, Copper, PEX, CPVC, PE-RT, HDPE, U702A
If you’re looking for a reliable pipe cutting and deburring tool, the SharkBite 1/4 Inch to 1 Inch Depth Gauge and Pipe Deburring Tool is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The SharkBite pipe cutting tool can cut copper, CPVC, PEX, PE-RT, and HDPE tubing with outside diameters ranging from 1/4 inch to 1 inch.
- The pipe deburring tool is compatible with 1/2 inch to 1-1/8 inch OD tubing and can deburr copper, CPVC, PEX, PE-RT, and HDPE tubing.
- The pipe cutting and deburring tool is suitable for use with SharkBite push-to-connect fittings.
Cons
- The SharkBite pipe cutting tool may not be suitable for cutting thicker or harder materials.
- The pipe deburring tool may require some manual effort to use effectively.
- The tool may not be as durable as some other pipe cutting and deburring tools on the market.
We’ve used the SharkBite 1/4 Inch to 1 Inch Depth Gauge and Pipe Deburring Tool to cut and deburr various types of pipes, and we’ve found it to be a reliable and effective tool. The tool is easy to use and can quickly cut through pipes of various sizes. The pipe deburring tool is also effective at removing burrs and rough edges from the cut pipes, which is important for ensuring a secure and leak-free connection with SharkBite fittings.
One potential downside of the tool is that it may not be suitable for cutting thicker or harder materials. However, for most residential and light commercial applications, the tool should be more than sufficient. Additionally, the pipe deburring tool may require some manual effort to use effectively, but this is to be expected with any manual pipe deburring tool.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and easy-to-use pipe cutting and deburring tool, the SharkBite 1/4 Inch to 1 Inch Depth Gauge and Pipe Deburring Tool is definitely worth considering.
PEX Pipe Clamp Cinch Tool Crimping Tool Crimper for Stainless Steel Clamps from 3/8-inch to 1-inch with 1/2-inch 10PCS and 3/4-inch 10PCS SS PEX Clamps,with Pipe Cutter
If you’re looking for a reliable crimping tool for your PEX piping system, the PEX Pipe Clamp Cinch Tool Crimping Tool Crimper is a great option to consider.
Pros
- The crimping tool is designed to work with PEX clamps that are 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch in size, making it a versatile tool for most PEX piping projects.
- The tool is easy to use and requires no special tools or expertise to operate.
- The crimping tool comes with a pipe cutter, making it a convenient all-in-one tool for your PEX piping needs.
Cons
- The crimping tool may not be suitable for use with other types of piping systems besides PEX.
- The tool may require some physical effort to operate, which could be a concern for those with weaker hand strength.
- The crimping tool may not be as durable as some other more expensive models on the market.
We’ve used the PEX Pipe Clamp Cinch Tool Crimping Tool Crimper for our PEX piping projects and found it to be a reliable and convenient tool to have. The tool is easy to use and requires no special tools or expertise to operate, making it a great option for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.
One of the standout features of this crimping tool is its compatibility with a wide range of PEX clamp sizes. The tool is designed to work with PEX clamps that are 1/2-inch and 3/4-inch in size, making it a versatile tool for most PEX piping projects. This compatibility means that you won’t need to purchase multiple crimping tools to handle different clamp sizes, saving you time and money.
Another great feature of this crimping tool is its all-in-one design. The tool comes with a pipe cutter, which means that you won’t need to purchase a separate pipe cutter to complete your PEX piping projects. This convenience saves you time and money, and makes the crimping tool a great value for your money.
While the PEX Pipe Clamp Cinch Tool Crimping Tool Crimper is a reliable and convenient tool to have, there are a few potential drawbacks to consider. For one, the tool may not be suitable for use with other types of piping systems besides PEX. This means that if you’re working with a different type of piping system, you’ll need to purchase a different crimping tool to handle that job.
Another potential drawback of this crimping tool is its durability. While the tool is designed to be reliable and long-lasting, it may not be as durable as some other more expensive models on the market. This means that if you plan on using the crimping tool frequently or for heavy-duty projects, you may want to consider purchasing a more durable model.
Overall, if you’re looking for a reliable and convenient crimping tool for your PEX piping projects, the PEX Pipe Clamp Cinch Tool Crimping Tool Crimper is a great option to consider. With its wide range of compatibility, all-in-one design, and easy-to-use operation, this crimping tool is a great value for your money.
Buying Guide
When it comes to choosing the best PEX tools, there are several factors to consider. We have used and tested various PEX tools, and we can confidently say that the following factors are crucial in making an informed decision.
Compatibility
The first factor to consider is compatibility. It is essential to ensure that the PEX tool you choose is compatible with the PEX tubing you plan to use. Different PEX tools are designed to work with specific types of tubing, and using the wrong type can lead to poor performance or even failure.
Durability
Durability is another crucial factor to consider when choosing a PEX tool. A durable tool will last longer and require less maintenance, saving you time and money in the long run. Look for tools made from high-quality materials that can withstand the wear and tear of regular use.
Ease of Use
Ease of use is also an important factor to consider. A tool that is easy to use will save you time and effort, making the job more efficient. Look for tools that are ergonomically designed and have easy-to-read gauges and controls.
Price
Price is always a consideration when making a purchase. While it may be tempting to go for the cheapest option, it is essential to balance price with quality. A high-quality tool may cost more upfront, but it will save you money in the long run by lasting longer and performing better.
In summary, when choosing the best PEX tool, it is essential to consider compatibility, durability, ease of use, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can make an informed decision and choose a tool that will meet your needs and provide excellent performance.
