Best Cordless Finish Nailer to Nail the Finish
If you’re the type of DIYer, contractor, or weekend warrior who likes to leave a lasting impression with perfect finishes on your work – then investing in the best cordless finish nailer is an absolute must.
You don’t want to skimp out here – and thankfully you don’t have to!
We’ve broken down all the specs so that you can compare finish nailers on your own and find one that fits all of your needs.
Make sure things stay seamless until the end by following our tips for finding the right cordless finish nailer for you.
Need something that’ll handle bigger framing nails? Check out our picks for the best cordless framing nailer.
Looking for something a little more versatile? Check out our picks for the best cordless brad nailer.
How We Choose the Best Cordless Finish Nailers
It’s hard to know which cordless finish nailer is the best for your needs.
With all of the different brands and features, how can you make a decision?
You could spend hours reading reviews and comparing specs, or you could trust us to do the legwork for you.
After reading through thousands of reviews and comparing the features and specs of the top brands, we’ve narrowed it down to these choices for the best cordless finish nailer.
Not only are our picks some of the best-rated finish nailers on the market, but they’re also affordable.
So whether you’re a professional contractor or a DIY enthusiast, we have a perfect pick for you.
Overall Winner – Best Cordless Finish Nailer
DEWALT 20V MAX Finish Nailer Kit (DCN650D1)

Key Features
- Brushless motor uses 20V DEWALT batteries
- Micro nose for improved line of sight
- Tool-free depth adjustment and jam release
Why It’s a Great Choice
With the DEWALT Cordless Finish Nailer Kit, forget about having to haul around a compressor or costly gas cartridges; this tool is 100% battery-powered!
Its brushless motor ensures this 15 gauge finish nailer achieves maximum runtime and durability– so you can work effectively while also saving money in the long run.
You never have to worry about missing your mark either – thanks to its micro nose that improves line of sight as well as the accuracy of nail placement.
Installation is made easy with its various tool-free features including depth adjustment for precise countersinking, tool-less jam release for clearing jammed nails quickly, and selectable trigger modes for either sequential or contact actuation.
Plus, the multi-functional LED lights let you easily illuminate your workspace and check the health of your tool.
The DEWALT Cordless Nailer Kit gives DIYers and professionals alike a reason to get started on projects faster than ever before!
It’s everything you need for superior performance at an unbeatable price – so what are you waiting for?
Get creative and make every project count.
Best Cordless Nail Gun on a Budget
Ryobi One+ 18V Cordless 16 Gauge Finish Nailer (P325)

Key Features
- Uses RYOBI 18V Lithium Ion battery
- LED lighting at head
- Low nail indicator
Why It’s a Great Choice
Are you the type of DIYer who loves to start projects with a bang?
You’ll love the Ryobi Cordless Finish Nailer, which will start small jobs—and big ones too—with a bang.
No need for wires or an air compressor; just pop in your battery, get up close and personal with your nail gun, and you are ready to go!
And don’t worry about working in dim conditions—this little helper comes with LED lighting at the front, so you can see what you’re doing.
Plus, there is a Low Nail Indicator that will let you know when it’s time to replace the clip.
But most importantly, this tool packs serious power while still allowing cozy comfort during use.
Advanced technology helps with more precise depth adjustments, plus tool-free jam clearing right up front.
So why wait to make some noise?
The Ryobi One+ nailer gives power and convenience to your nails – get yours today!
Best Pneumatic Feel without the Air Hose
Metabo HPT 18V MultiVoltâ„¢ Cordless Finish Nailer Kit (NT1865DMS)

Key Features
- Uses Metabo HPT 18V Lithium Ion battery
- 1,500 nails per charge with a 3.0 Ah battery
- On-tool battery indicator
Why It’s a Great Choice
Metabo HPT’s 18V MultiVolt™ Cordless Nail Gun Kit provides the perfect blend of convenience, power, and performance.
Whether you’re a DIY-er or a professional, you can finally break free of your pneumatic hose and move to 18 volts of cordless freedom.
This finish nailer is ideal for installing chair rails, molding, cabinetry, and other finish applications – producing up to 1500 nails per charge with its new compact 3.0Ah Li-ion battery!
Plus, the unique air spring drive system offers a pneumatic-like feel – giving you the same results without any of the hassles.
And with its quick and easy switching between bump and sequential modes, plus a smooth and intuitive tool-less depth adjustment setting for flush drives into various materials, this nailer truly has it all.
So go ahead, forget about cords – Metabo HPT’s 18v Finish Nailer Kit gives you pneumatic power without any of the fuss!
Best Lightweight Cordless Finish Nail Gun
Paslode Cordless Finish Nailer (902400)

Key Features
- Uses included 7V Lithium-Ion battery
- Up to 12,000 nails per battery charge
- Only 4.5 lbs.
Why It’s a Great Choice
Do you need a tool that’s fast, powerful, and gentle?
Look no further than the Paslode Cordless Nail Gun.
This expertly designed nail gun is perfect for DIYers, professionals, and everyone in between.
It has an angled magazine for tight spots and precise nail placement – crown molding corners have never been easier!
The 7V Li-ion battery allows for up to 12,000 nails per charge, meaning your battery will last through even the longest of projects.
And at only 4.5 lbs., it’s lightweight enough to transition from job to job with ease.
But what really sets this product apart is its no-mar tip.
Now you can preserve smooth surfaces while preventing scratchings and markings on work surfaces, all while getting the job done quickly.
Say goodbye to uncomfortable tools that keep you up all night; with the Paslode Cordless Finish Nail Gun, nailing has never been faster or easier!
Best Cordless Nail Gun Tip for Accurate Shooting
Makita 18V LXT Straight Finish Nailer (XNB02Z)

Key Features
- Uses Makita 18V Lithium Ion Battery
- Drives up to 1,000 finishing nails on a single charge
- 110 nail magazine capacity
Why It’s a Great Choice
Say goodbye to rusty nails, tired arms, and scraped fingers; the Makita Cordless Finish Nailer is here to make your job easier!
This innovative nailer has a powerful motor that drives straight finish nails from 1″ to 2-1/2″ in length like a hot knife through butter.
Never worry about running out of nails either – the magazine capacity allows you to store up to 110 16 gauge straight finish nails at a time.
With the 5.0 Ah 18V LXT battery, you can drive up to a thousand finish nails with each charge.
Plus, the compact center height lets you view around the nose tip even when fastening in tight spots – no more hard-to-reach places!
And thanks to its anti-dry fire mechanism engineered design, you’ll never have to worry about driving blanks or damaging your work surface.
Get all of these features in one convenient package with the Makita 18V LXT Straight Finish Nailer: it’s like having an assistant on every job site!
Buyer’s Guide to the Best Cordless Finish Nailers
Cordless nail guns are becoming more and more popular, but they can be confusing to shop for.
With all of the different brands and models available, it can be hard to figure out which one is the best for you.
We’ve put together a list of the most commonly asked questions about cordless nailers so that you can make an informed decision before you buy.
What is a cordless finish nailer?
A cordless finish nailer is a type of power tool used to drive finishing nails into wood, trim, and other materials. Unlike traditional finish nailers that require an air compressor and hose, cordless nailers operate using a rechargeable battery, making them more portable and convenient to use. They are typically lighter and more maneuverable than corded models, making them a popular choice for carpenters, woodworkers, and DIY enthusiasts who need to move around job sites or work in tight spaces. Cordless finish nailers can be used for a variety of projects, such as installing baseboards, crown molding, and trim work.
How do cordless finish nailers work?
Cordless nail guns work by using a battery-powered motor to drive nails into wood, trim, or other materials. The nailer has a magazine that holds a strip of nails, and when the trigger is pulled, the nailer feeds a nail from the magazine into the chamber where it is fired with a burst of compressed air or gas. The motor then resets the piston, readying it for the next nail. The depth of the nail is controlled by the nailer’s depth adjustment wheel, which allows the user to set the nail to the desired depth. Cordless finish nailers typically come with a range of safety features, including a safety nose that prevents accidental firing, a jam release mechanism, and a lockout switch that prevents the nailer from firing when the magazine is empty.
What are cordless finish nailers used for?
Cordless finish nailers are primarily used for driving finishing nails into wood, trim, and other materials. They are commonly used in woodworking and carpentry projects, particularly for installing baseboards, crown molding, trim work, and other decorative elements. Cordless finish nail guns are also used for furniture making, cabinetry, and other woodworking applications where precision and accuracy are important. They are often used for DIY projects around the house, such as building shelves, installing cabinets, and hanging picture frames. Cordless finish nail guns are versatile tools that can be used for a wide range of projects, making them a popular choice among both professionals and DIY enthusiasts.
Are cordless finish nailers as powerful as corded or pneumatic nailers?
Cordless finish nailers have come a long way in recent years and have significantly improved in terms of power and performance. While they may not be quite as powerful as their corded or pneumatic counterparts, they are still capable of delivering sufficient force to drive nails into most materials, including hardwoods. Some of the latest cordless models are equipped with advanced lithium-ion battery technology that provides longer run times and faster recharge times, allowing them to operate more efficiently and effectively. However, corded or pneumatic finish nailers still have an advantage in terms of power and speed, making them better suited for heavy-duty or high-volume applications. Ultimately, the choice between a cordless, corded, or pneumatic finish nailer will depend on the specific needs of the user and the demands of the project.
What types of nails do cordless finish nailers use?
Cordless finish nail guns typically use 15- or 16-gauge straight or angled finish nails. These nails are usually between 1 and 2-1/2 inches in length, although some models can handle longer nails. The gauge of the nail refers to its thickness, with 16 gauge being thinner than 15 gauge. The angled nails are usually at a 20-degree or 16-degree angle, while the straight nails are at a 0-degree angle. The specific type and size of the nail that a cordless finish nailer can use will depend on the model of the nailer and the size of the magazine that holds the nails. It is important to use the correct size and type of nail for the job to ensure the best results and to avoid damaging the tool or the material being worked on.
How do I choose the right cordless finish nailer for my project?
When choosing a cordless finish nailer for your project, there are several factors to consider, including:
- Nail size and gauge: Ensure that the nailer you choose is capable of handling the size and gauge of nails you need for your project.
- Nail angle: If you need to use angled nails, make sure the nailer you choose can accommodate the specific angle you require.
- Magazine capacity: The size of the magazine will determine how many nails you can load at once, which can affect your productivity.
- Power source: Consider the type of battery and the runtime of the nailer to ensure that it can handle the demands of your project.
- Weight and ergonomics: Make sure the nailer is comfortable to hold and use for extended periods.
- Safety features: Look for nailers with safety features such as a jam release mechanism, a safety nose, and a lockout switch.
- Brand and reputation: Choose a well-known brand with a good reputation for quality and durability.
By considering these factors, you can select a cordless finish nailer that is well-suited for your project and provides reliable and efficient performance.
Can cordless finish nailers be used for outdoor projects?
Cordless finish nail guns can be used for outdoor projects, but it’s important to choose the right model and take precautions to protect the tool from the elements. Look for a cordless finish nailer that is designed for outdoor use and is built with weather-resistant materials. Additionally, be sure to use the correct type of nail for the job, such as stainless steel nails that are resistant to rust and corrosion. It’s also important to keep the tool clean and dry and to store it in a dry location when not in use. When working outdoors, make sure to wear appropriate safety gear and take precautions to avoid injury or damage to the tool. With proper care and use, a cordless finish nailer can be a versatile and useful tool for a wide range of outdoor projects.
Can cordless finish nailers be used for heavy-duty projects?
While cordless finish nail guns have significantly improved in terms of power and performance in recent years, they may not be as well-suited for heavy-duty projects as corded or pneumatic finish nailers. Corded or pneumatic finish nailers typically have more power and are better suited for driving nails into harder woods, thicker materials, or larger-scale projects that require a higher volume of nails. However, some cordless nail guns on the market are designed for heavy-duty use and can drive nails with enough force for most applications. These models typically have larger battery capacity, advanced motor technology, and other features that enable them to perform at a high level. If you’re planning to tackle a heavy-duty project, it’s important to choose a cordless nail gun that is up to the task and capable of delivering the power and performance you need.
Can cordless finish nailers be used for precision work?
Cordless nail guns can be used for precision work, although they may not be as well-suited for it as some other types of nailers, such as pin nailers or brad nailers. Cordless finish nail guns are typically designed for larger nails and may not be as precise when it comes to driving nails into delicate or small materials. However, some cordless finish nailers have features that make them better suited for precision work, such as a narrow nose that provides better visibility and control, or an adjustable depth control that allows for greater precision when setting nails. It’s also important to choose the right size and gauge of nails for the job, as well as the correct angle if using angled nails. With the right technique and attention to detail, a cordless nail gun can be a useful tool for precision work.
Choosing the Best Cordless Finish Nailer for You
Phew, what a journey!
By now you should have a great idea not only of which cordless finish nailers are available but also of the awesome features they all provide.
Every one of our top choices is worth considering, but your individual preferences and needs will ultimately guide you to the perfect selection for your workspace.
So what’s the next step?
You guessed it – click the links to check prices on Amazon, get yourself set up with an awesome cordless nail gun, and start nailing away!
After all that research and weighing of options, we’ve made it nice and easy for you.
All that’s left is to show off your skills with that shiny new nailer of yours!
Get hammering – you won’t regret it!