The 7 Best Gum Tape Dispensers

This wiki has been updated 24 times since it was first published in November of 2018. Water activated, or gum tape, dispensers offer all the packing benefits you've been looking for. They increase productivity, help curtail waste, and prevent repetitive strain injuries caused by standard guns. These machines fall into two main categories: manual and electric. You'll find both here, in a range that will accommodate a variety of volume requirements and budgets. When users buy our independently chosen editorial recommendations, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

This wiki has been updated 24 times since it was first published in November of 2018. Water activated, or gum tape, dispensers offer all the packing benefits you've been looking for. They increase productivity, help curtail waste, and prevent repetitive strain injuries caused by standard guns. These machines fall into two main categories: manual and electric. You'll find both here, in a range that will accommodate a variety of volume requirements and budgets. When users buy our independently chosen editorial selections, we may earn commissions to help fund the Wiki.

1. Better Packages 333 Plus

The favorite of many, this Better Packages 333 Plus (around $373) is built like a tank, with a sturdy steel frame that is made to go the distance. Not only that, but it doesn't have any unnecessary moving parts, so there is less to break down or go wrong.

1-year manufacturer's warranty
Uncomplicated operation
Simple to clean

2. Marsh Manual

With its guillotine-style cutter, the Marsh Manual (appx. $379) effortlessly snips pieces between 5 and 36 inches in length, and thanks to its beefy 70-ounce water bottle, you won't be running to refill it every other minute. It's even heated, so you can use it in a cold warehouse.

Not obnoxiously loud
Handles reinforced tape
No trouble to reload

3. Better Packages 555eSA

The Better Packages 555eSA (around $1050) was designed for high-volume shipping environments and puts both control and efficiency at your fingertips. For example, you can adjust the length in 1/2-inch increments to suit your needs, and it'll accept a large 1,000-foot roll.

Advances tape automatically
Cuts down on waste
Thermal cutoff prevents overheating

4. Better Packages Packer 3s

For users who want quality but not all the bells and whistles, the Better Packages Packer 3s (around $168) is a totally workable choice. It is sized to accept rolls between 1 and 3 inches wide and is strong enough to tackle both reinforced and non-reinforced.

For ebay sellers or home offices
Effortless pull and tear action
Pricier than similar units

5. Paper Mart Kraft

The Paper Mart Kraft (about $51) is perhaps best for only occasional use, as the roll sits atop the unit and is not secured in any meaningful way. Nevertheless, it isn't too expensive, so any minor annoyances could be worth dealing with for its lower price.

It moistens well
Feels sturdy at 3 pounds
Not for reinforced tapes

6. Aviditi BET755

Although it costs a pretty penny, the Aviditi BET755 (appx. $3255) does so much that, for fast-paced settings, it more than makes up for the investment. It can, for instance, store 20 preset lengths and provide a plentiful output of 32 inches per second.

Adjustable low-voltage heater
Not unnecessarily tall
Color-coded keypad

7. Chu's Packaging Supplies Dispenser

The Chu's Packaging Supplies Dispenser (appx. $340) has all the features you need for ease of use and none of the ones that would make it too complicated. Plus, the brush head can be cleaned with little trouble, so you don't have to worry about built-up adhesive gunk.

Tough and robust handle
Over 10 inches wide
On the bulkier side

Last updated by Melissa Harr

Melissa Harr is a language-obsessed writer from Chicagoland who holds both a bachelor of arts and master of arts in English. Although she began as a TEFL teacher, earning several teaching certificates and working in both Russia and Vietnam, she moved into freelance writing to satisfy her passion for the written word. She has published full-length courses and books in the realm of arts & crafts and DIY; in fact, most of her non-working time is spent knitting, cleaning, or committing acts of home improvement. Along with an extensive knowledge of tools, home goods, and crafts and organizational supplies, she has ample experience (okay, an obsession) with travel gear, luggage, and the electronics that make modern life more convenient.

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