Best 10 Book Binding Machines For Both Soft & Hardcover Projects

If you need to or love making your own books, this review is made for you!

Explore your options by reading about the best-rated book binding machines!

Check out our top picks below and read reviews. Also, it is important to know what kind of finished product you want, so read our guide that contains all relevant info and choose the best model that meets your needs.

Our Top Picks

What Is The Machine That Binds Books?

It’s a machine used to bind papers and covers into a single project, such as a book. There are many different types available on the market. Usually, they work to bind papers and covers together either with some kind of fastening (such as wires, combs, or coils) or by using adhesive glue to keep the book contents together.

What Kind Of Books Can You Bind With A Machine?

Depending on the type of machine you go for, there are many different book types you can bind and create. For example, you can bind notebooks, presentations, manuals, reports, school project books, scrapbooks, and much more.

Four Different Types

There is more than one type you can choose between. Learn about the common four types to see which one is suitable for the kind of project you want to create.

Coil

The first type of binding machine you can get is the one that binds by coils. It works by punching the holes on the spinal edge of the papers and then inserting and twisting the spiral coil through the holes, creating a bound book.

Wire

Another type is the one that uses a wire inserted into holes on the paper to create a bound book. It is a durable way to bind books together but is more expensive than a coil.

Comb

A machine with a comb style also works by first punching holes into the paper and then connecting them together and binding with the help of the plastic comb. This type of book binding is less durable than coils and wires, but also the cheapest option.

Thermal

A different kind of bookbinding from the above-mentioned three types is a thermal binder, called perfect-bound, too. It works without punching holes through the sheets. Instead, it uses an adhesive glue inside the thermal cover that glues the papers together once the glue is heated and liquified. The end project looks the closest to a standard book.

Is Coil Or Comb Better For Binding?

While coil and comb are similar ways to bind books, they are not the same. The coil is a bit more durable and more permanent, while the comb is a bit more budget-friendly and allows you to make revisions and edit the bound project. When it comes to their similarities, they both allow you to lay the pages flat. However, with the comb, you won’t be able to open the pages 360 degrees.

Hardcover & Softcover Book Binding

When binding books, you can choose to have a cover in soft or hard material. There are advantages and disadvantages to both. With hardcovers, your book will be more durable. However, you might have to lower the number of pages inside according to the maximum thickness your machine can take. This is not a problem with softcovers, but they might be less durable.

Is Hardcover Better Than Paperback?

The answer depends on what works better for you. On one side, a paperback, aka softcover, is easy to transport, as it is smaller and lightweight. Moreover, it is also more bendable. On the other side, the hardcover is the more durable option. It is also usually a more beautiful choice and holds its value for much longer.

How Do I Choose A Bookbinding Machine?

To pick the best model for your house, office, business, etc, here are which features and specifications you should focus on.

Punching Capacity For Binding

When punching holes for books, you need to be aware of the punching capacity of your machine. Some machines can punch holes through 15 sheets at once. On the other hand, some can even punch through more than 25 sheets at once. The first one is a good option for occasional and personal use, while the latter is a good choice if you bind regularly and in higher volumes.

Binding Capacity For Maximum Book Sheets

The binding capacity of a machine tells you how many sheets your bound book can have maximum. Choose a machine that binds even over 500 sheets into one book if you are going to use it often and for bigger projects. If you only want a book binder for occasional and light use, choose around a 250-sheet capacity.

Margin Adjustment

Adjusting the margin with the help of a knob is also important for creating books of different thicknesses. Choose a model that allows multiple margin sizes so that you can choose the proper margin for the book you want to create. For instance, some machines for binding books let you choose between 2.5 mm, 3.5 mm, and 4.5 mm. Some can even adjust the margin to 6.5 mm.

Manual Vs. Electric Binding Machine

A manual machine for book binding has a manual hole punch and inserter for wires, combs, or coils (depending on the model). It is a good choice if you want to bind books occasionally. But, if you are going to bind books all the time, you can save your arms by choosing a model with an electric punch (activated by a button or a foot pedal) or one that even has an electric roller/insert for coils, wires, and combs.

Which Binding Type Is Recommended For You?

If you cannot figure out which binding type is a better choice for you, think about what kinds of projects you are planning to make. If you want your book to look like typical books, a thermal binder will do the job. If you want to bind books the cheap way, go for a comb or a coil binder. Finally, a wire will be something in-between, as it is more durable than combs and coils but does not look like a standard perfect-bound book.

Size Of Book

Depending on the size of the book you want to make, you will have to think about the size of the binding machine. For standard book binding, you won’t need a model in a bigger size than 11 inches. For binding books of bigger sizes, it is the best option to look for a model that has an open throat so that it can accept extra-large documents.

Durability Of The Machine

A binding machine for books should be made of durable materials, especially if you are going to use it all the time. In that case, look for a binder with a unit that is completely made of metal. For occasional and light use, a plastic binding machine for books will suffice.

Ease Of Use

No matter what type of a machine you go for, make sure it is easy to use. However, binding machines can be quite confusing and difficult at first. Read through the manufacturer’s manual and make sure you understand how to use it.

What Glue Is Best For Bookbinding?

The best adhesive on the market for bookbinding, as well as any other gluing project, is PVA glue. This type of glue will be easy to buy as it is very popular. Its value is in its strength. Once you use it to glue pages and covers into a book, you won’t have to worry about it falling apart.

Best 10 Book Binding Machines

TruBind TB-W20A Binding Machine

Quality Construction
TruBind TB-W20A is a high-quality binding machine that binds your books and documents with ease. It is designed for small offices. It measures 17 x 4 x 14 inches and weighs 18 pounds. This is a user-friendly manually operated machine. While the exterior is made of heavy-duty plastic, the interior gear and mechanism are made of metal.

Full Handlebar
This wire binding machine utilizes a 3:1 pitch and twin loop wire O-binding spines, that provide a professional look for books. You can punch up to 20 sheets of paper at a time. The full handlebar is suitable for left- or right-handed operation. Open Punch throat allows standard and oversized documents.

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Marigold Glue Thermal Binder

For Hardcover
Marigold binding machine is designed in the USA. It is ideal for large offices and for frequent use. This machine is suitable for calendars, reports, brochures, schedules, notebooks and books. It binds up to 200 sheets for softcover and up to 160 sheets for hard cover.

Safety Features
This hardcover binder features a quick 1-minute thermal binding cycle with a short heat-up of 3 minutes. You’ll notice visual signals when Marigold is ready for use. Also, you’ll hear a beep signal when binding is complete. The auto-shutoff feature prevents overheating. The glue is inside the machine.

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Fellowes Galaxy Binding Machine

Frequently Use
Fellowes Galaxy is an electric binding machine designed for daily use in medium-sized offices. Its dimensions are 19.7 x 8.3 x 23 inches and it weighs 32 pounds. Touch the button and the machine will automatically punch up to 25 sheets. Moreover, it binds up to 500 sheets with a 2” comb.

Removable Binding Mechanism
The binding mechanism is removable and can be used separately for more productivity. Fellowes features vertical paper loading that provides more accurate punch alignment. Integrated document measurement device adds convenience. It is easy to select the right comb size for your book.

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GBC Multibind 230E Machine

High-quality Build
GBC Multibind 230E is a pricey binding machine measuring 21.4 x 19.3 x 9.2 inches. This heavy-duty coil book binder is made of high-quality materials and it’s suitable for demanding tasks. It features a 2-in-1 design, there is a standard plastic comb and a 2:1 loop wire. You can create wire or comb bound books.

Electronic Punching
Simply Click Comb Selector allow you to adjust the settings and choose the right comb size. This machine binds up to 125 sheets when using a wire and 450 sheets when using a comb spine. It punches 30 sheets electronically. Binds both A4 and A5 documents.

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GBC ProClick Electric Machine

Professional Binding
GBC ProClick machine is backed by a 1-year warranty, this machine is made of durable and quality materials. Its dimensions are 14 x 16 x 8 inches and weigh 22 pounds. This pricey model provides professional binding power. Use it with GBC ProClick Spines only.

Handy Guide Right Feature
Its binding capacity is 110 sheets of paper and it punches up to 15 sheets. This binding machine for books allows you to open the machine and remove or add pages. GBC ProClick binder is suitable for letter-size and oversized papers. The Handy Guide Right feature provides accurate punching and binding.

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Offnova Binder Machine

Low-force Handle
Offnova is an affordable comb binding machine suitable for home and recreational use. This binder measures 14.5 x 10.2 x 9.2 inches and weighs 6.4 pounds. Place it on your desk, workbench, table and store easily in your drawer or tray. It is equipped with a curved handle that required low force to pierce the paper.

Positioning Knob
You can punch up to 12 sheets of paper manually. Offnova paper binding machine works simultaneously, it allows punching and binding at the same time. Suitable for A4 and A5 paper sizes. Align the paper with a positioning knob and bind up to 450 sheets. Also, the margins are adjustable.

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Tianse Comb Binding Machine

2-inch Comb
Tianse is a practical machine with a user-friendly design. You need to insert the file, press the handle and place the comb ring. Then open the comb ring, place the paper and pull the handle back. Tianse binding machine is perfect for offices, schools, libraries and bookstores. Punch up to 15 sheets manually and bind up to 450 sheets with a 2” comb.

Open Throat Design
It is easy to create professional-looking books and notebooks. Because of the open throat design, you can insert letter size and even larger documents. This comb binding machine meets the specification of various requirements. There is a dual functional handle for punching and binding.

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Fellowes Helios 60 Machine

Modern Design
Fellowes Helios 60 is a thermal type that features a modern and sleek design. The item dimensions are 3.9 x 20.8 x 9.4 inches. This model is designed for large offices and heavy-duty tasks. Its thermal binding cycle lasts from 1-3 minutes with a heat-up time of 4 minutes.

Beep Sound
This thermal binding machine binds up to 600 sheets at a time. It is equipped with a HeatShield safety barrier to protect you from contact with a heated plate. Also, there is a manual document measurement for simple use. When the device starts/finish the binding, you’ll hear the sound signal.

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Akiles DuoMac C31 Binding Machine

2-in-1 Design
Akiles DuoMac C31 is a practical combo binding machine. Bind your books and notebooks with a plastic comb or 3:1 loop wire. The manufacturer ensures a 1-year warranty. Its heavy-duty design is provided by CAE (Computer-Aided Engineering) technology. This binding machine is suitable for print shops, bookstores.

Binds Up To 500 Sheets
All dies can be independently disengaged, so Akiles binder allows punching of any size document and book. It punches up to 20 sheets of paper at once. Also, it binds up to 500 sheets. The open throat design accepts a larger paper size. Akiles is a versatile binding machine that will last for years.

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TruBind Heavy Duty Machine

Professional Use
TruBind is a large and heavy-duty machine designed for professional use. It has a high price and comes equipped with a 1-year warranty. This model is equipped with an electric punch and electric coil inserter. The box contains a binding machine and coil cutter/crimping tool.

High Volume Requirements
It punches up to 25 sheets of paper and TruBind electric binding machine is designed for high volume binding requirements. The binder comes with disengaging pins that eliminate partially punched holes of your book. Electronically punch your book with the simple push of a button. Depth and side margin are adjustable.

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How To Use A Binding Machine For Books?

It does not have to be difficult to use. Check out the following steps to bind your book easily and properly.

1. Turn on your binder if it is electric or prepare it for use if it is manual.
2. Use a test paper of the same size as your book to adjust the margins and punch test holes. Make sure to disengage the punch pins if your paper is smaller so you do not get half-holes at the end of your paper.
3. Punch the holes into the test paper. If you are satisfied with it, you can start binding your book.
4. Punch holes in the covers separate from punching the holes in the papers.
5. Once that is done, you can start to assemble the covers and pages in the right order.
6. Then, open the wire or the comb and put the book inside to close the binding.
7. If you are going to coil bind it, put the coil through the holes.
8. If you have a thermal machine for binding books, simply put the papers into the thermal cover and heat them up so the adhesive glue can spread and glue the pages together and to the covers. Leave it in the cooling rack until the glue is cooled.

How Do You Bind A Thick Book At Home?

To make a thick book at home, especially one of hardcover, you should follow these steps that don’t require the use of a binder:

1. Stack your paper neatly into piles of up to 8 sheets.
2. Then fold each stack in half.
3. After, unfold it and turn it over.
4. Staple through the pages vertically down the middle of the fold. Each stack should have two staples through it, along the crease.
5. Use a giant paper clip to hold all the stacks of folded paper together.
6. Apply the glue to the spine of the stacks held together.
7. Then, glue the paper into the cover.

How Do You Do Bookbinding Without A Machine?

Some ways to create a book include using pre-punched paper and a coil. It is simple to put the paper and covers together if they are pre-punched by twisting the coils through the holes. Another way to do it is to glue papers together, create a book cover, and then glue the papers to the inside of the book cover’s spine.

How Do You Make Flour Paste For Bookbinding?

While there are many recipes for creating a flour paste for your bookbinding without machines, here is one that works well. First of all, you will need a bowl, water, and flour (either wheat or rice). For example, mix a quarter of a tablespoon of flour with two tablespoons of water in a glass bowl. Then, microwave it until it starts to thicken and look translucent. However, make sure to stop the microwave from time to time to mix it so it does not get lumpy. Then, you can use it for bookbinding at home.

What Is The Cheapest Way To Bind A Book?

There are a few ways you can bind a book an inexpensive way:

1. Stapling the pages – this won’t be very durable or work for thicker books, but all you need is a stapler and staples
2. Plastic coil – punch the papers and manually insert and twist the coil through the paper
3. Binding rings – put the rings through the holes of the punched paper

How Do You Book Bind DIY?

Learn how to bind a hardcover book by following the instructions from this video: