Cable Staples That Hold Fast Without Crushing Wires
The Gardner Bender 38-00417 is our top pick for most low voltage jobs. It uses rounded crowns that protect wire insulation while gripping firmly. Its main limitation is that it only fits Arrow T50 style staplers, not generic guns.
Running low voltage cable calls for staples that secure without slicing insulation. The wrong staple can short out a network or degrade a TV signal over time.
We compared top selling cable staples from trusted brands. Each product below is rated for specific wire types and stapler models.
The best picks, ranked
Gardner Bender 38-00417 Cable Staple, 1/2 Inch, 100 Pack
These staples feature a rounded crown that fits snugly over Romex and low voltage cable without crushing. Users report clean installation and strong holding power in wood. The 1/2 inch size suits 14/2 and 12/2 wire, and they work with standard T50 staplers.
Pros
- Rounded crown prevents wire damage
- Fits Arrow T50 and similar staplers
- Galvanized finish resists rust
Cons
- Not for very thick cables
- May require manual tapping on hardwoods
Arrow Fastener T59-1/2 Cable Staples, 1/2 Inch, 1000 Pack
Arrow T59 staples are designed for their T59 staple gun, but many users fire them with T50 guns. They have a rounded crown and a sharp point that penetrates wood cleanly. With 1000 staples per box, this pack suits large projects. They handle 14/2 and 12/2 cable effectively.
Pros
- Economical per staple
- Sharp points reduce splitting
- Consistent feed in Arrow guns
Cons
- Bulk pack may be too many for small jobs
- Less versatile for odd cable sizes
Commercial Electric CSB50-5 Cable Staple, 1/2 Inch, 100 Pack
Commercial Electric staples offer a rounded crown at a low price. They fit T50 staplers and hold 14/2 wire securely. Some users note the wire channel is slightly narrower than premium options, so they are best for standard low voltage cable.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Works with common staplers
- Rounded crown protects wire
Cons
- Thinner gauge steel
- Not ideal for thick jackets
Ideal Industries 35-0520 Cable Staple, 1/2 Inch, 100 Pack
Ideal’s staples are built to a high standard with a durable steel construction. The 1/2 inch crown fits NM cable and low voltage lines. They are known for holding tight without damaging insulation. They fit Ideal and many other staple guns.
Pros
- Reliable holding strength
- Consistent quality
- Rounded edges protect cable
Cons
- Pricier than some alternatives
- May not fit all staplers
Gardner Bender 38-00419 Cable Staple, 3/4 Inch, 50 Pack
This larger staple from Gardner Bender accommodates thicker cables up to 10/3. The 3/4 inch crown reduces the risk of crushing heavy jackets. Users appreciate the extra clearance. They still fit T50 type staplers.
Pros
- Handles thick cables
- Less compression on large wires
- Good for outdoor rated cable
Cons
- Fewer staples per pack
- May look bulky on small wires
Arrow Fastener T59-3/8 Cable Staples, 3/8 Inch, 500 Pack
For low voltage cables that are smaller than 14/2, the 3/8 inch crown is a better fit. These staples from Arrow secure Cat5e and Cat6 without over squeezing. They are designed for T59 staplers but work in many T50 guns. The 500 count is practical for network runs.
Pros
- Perfect for ethernet
- Less risk of crushing thin wires
- Good quantity
Cons
- Not for standard NM cable
- May require precise alignment
Southwire 57913301 Cable Staple, 1/2 Inch, 100 Pack
Southwire staples feature a sharp chisel point that bites into wood without splitting. They have a rounded crown and fit most T50 staplers. Users report excellent holding power even in dense materials. The 1/2 inch size handles 14/2 and 12/2 cables.
Pros
- Sharp points for easy penetration
- Strong hold in hardwood
- Rounded crown prevents wire damage
Cons
- Not as widely available
- Some users prefer insulated staples
The lineup, side by side
| # | Model | Crown Width | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Gardner Bender 38-00417 Cable Staple, 1/2 Inch, 100 Pack | 1/2 inch | Most low voltage wiring with Arrow T50 staplers | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | Arrow Fastener T59-1/2 Cable Staples, 1/2 Inch, 1000 Pack | 1/2 inch | High volume low voltage installations | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | Commercial Electric CSB50-5 Cable Staple, 1/2 Inch, 100 Pack | 1/2 inch | Budget friendly runs of ethernet and coax | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | Ideal Industries 35-0520 Cable Staple, 1/2 Inch, 100 Pack | 1/2 inch | Professional electricians needing consistent performance | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Gardner Bender 38-00419 Cable Staple, 3/4 Inch, 50 Pack | 3/4 inch | Securing larger cables like 10/3 and thick coax | 8.7 | Check price |
| 6 | Arrow Fastener T59-3/8 Cable Staples, 3/8 Inch, 500 Pack | 3/8 inch | Securing thin ethernet and thermostat wire | 8.5 | Check price |
| 7 | Southwire 57913301 Cable Staple, 1/2 Inch, 100 Pack | 1/2 inch | Secure holding in various wood types | 8.3 | Check price |
How to pick the right one
Good to know
Can I use regular staples on electrical wire?
No. Regular staples have sharp edges that can cut into the wire insulation. Cable staples have rounded crowns and are made to hold wires without damaging them.
What size cable staple do I need for Cat6 ethernet?
For Cat6, a 3/8 inch crown staple is usually ideal. Some installers prefer 1/2 inch if the cable is thick. Check the diameter of your specific cable.
Are insulated cable staples better than bare metal?
Insulated staples add a layer of protection and are required in some jurisdictions for metal surfaces. For wood, bare metal staples are acceptable if they have rounded crowns.
Can I use cable staples on Romex?
Yes, but only staples specifically rated for NM cable. They must have a rounded crown that fits over the cable without crushing it. Check local electrical codes.
How do I remove a cable staple without damaging the wire?
Use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry under the crown. Apply steady pressure to lift the staple out. For stubborn staples, use a staple remover tool.
What is the difference between T50 and T59 staples?
T50 staples have a wider crown and are more common. T59 staples are narrower and often used for low voltage wiring. Some T59 staples fit in T50 guns, but always verify.
How many cable staples come in a pack?
Packs range from 50 to 1000 staples. For small projects, a 100 count is typical. For large network installs, consider bulk packs.
Can I use cable staples outdoors?
Use galvanized or stainless steel staples for outdoor exposure. They resist rust. Also ensure the cable is rated for outdoor use.
Do cable staples work on drywall?
Staples are not recommended for drywall because they do not hold well and can damage the wall. Use cable clips or conduit instead.
Will cable staples split wood?
Sharp pointed staples reduce splitting, but driving them too close to the edge of a board can still cause splits. Pre-drill pilot holes in hardwood if needed.
The bottom line
For most low voltage and Romex jobs, choose the Gardner Bender 38-00417 for its perfect balance of protection and holding power. If you are running thin ethernet, the Arrow T59-3/8 staples are the better fit. For heavy cable, the Gardner Bender 3/4 inch size is your best bet.
