The Best 3 Hole Punches
We analyzed five top-rated 3 hole punches on Amazon, examining over 150,000 owner ratings and reviews to identify the best options for capacity, durability, and price.
Updated
The bottom line
The Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch (B01GIJLSGG) is our top pick for its reliable performance, sturdy metal construction, and 12-sheet capacity, priced at $13.49 with consistently high owner ratings. The Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch (B0879YNTTP) is a close runner-up at $9.48, offering similar durability and a 10-sheet capacity. For those needing higher capacity, the Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch (B0C658ML5B) at $114.97 punches up to 30 sheets but is significantly more expensive.
Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch $13.49
Best balance of capacity and durability
The Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch has a 12-sheet capacity, sturdy metal construction, and a rubber base for stability, all for $13.49. Owners rate it 4.7/5 from 64,931 ratings, highlighting its reliability and smooth operation. The tradeoff is its higher price compared to the Amazon Basics model.
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Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch $9.48
Affordable and durable
The Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch has a 10-sheet capacity and durable metal construction for $9.48. It has a 4.7/5 rating from 12,351 owners, who praise its efficiency and value. The tradeoff is its slightly lower capacity compared to the Bostitch model.
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Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch $114.97
High-volume punching
The Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch has a 30-sheet capacity and adjustable punch head for $114.97. It has a 4.7/5 rating from 12,307 owners, who appreciate its durability and ease of use. The tradeoff is its much higher price and larger size.
Check price on AmazonThe field, ranked
- Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch Best for reliability and 12-sheet capacity 9.0/10 $13.49 Amazon
- Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch Affordable and durable with 10-sheet capacity 8.5/10 $9.48 Amazon
- Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch High-volume punching with 30-sheet capacity 7.0/10 $114.97 Amazon
- Bostitch Office Premium 3 Hole Punch Durable with 12-sheet capacity, but higher price 7.0/10 $9.51 Amazon
- Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch Reliable with 12-sheet capacity, but higher price 7.0/10 $10.38 Amazon
Who should buy which
If you need a reliable, everyday 3 hole punch with a good balance of capacity and price, the Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch (B01GIJLSGG) is your best bet. For those on a tighter budget, the Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch (B0879YNTTP) offers similar durability at a lower cost. If you frequently punch large volumes of paper, the Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch (B0C658ML5B) with its 30-sheet capacity is worth the higher investment.
Common complaints
Owners of the Amazon Basics 3 Hole Punch (B0879YNTTP) occasionally mention the need for moderate effort when punching larger stacks of paper. Some users also noted confusion about setup instructions. The Bostitch models, while highly rated, have a few complaints about the need for extra force when approaching their maximum sheet capacity.
Also-rans
The Bostitch Office Premium 3 Hole Punch (B0FT96ZFN5) and the Bostitch Office 3 Hole Punch (B07DPJB4VR) are both solid choices but are priced higher than the top picks without offering significant additional benefits. They are best for those who prioritize brand reputation and are willing to pay a premium.