The 5 Best Cat6 Punchdown Tools (2023 reviews)

Not everyone likes to purchase tool for their regular usage, but the gaobige cat6 punchdown tool would be an anomoly. This ethernet crimper can crimp 6p6c, 6p4c telephone connectors. It is designed for use with network cable test, telephone lines test, alarm cables, computer cables, intercom lines and speaker wires functions. The tester works well, the crimpers do a decent job, and the cable strippers are easy to use. The kit has some strippers for cables too.

If you will be handling an occasional cable or two, this kit will provide everything you need. The tool case is rugged, and has a decent feel of quality to it. It tests each wire strand individually. It is great for minor network work around the house.

Why We Like This:

Useful tools for installing keystone connectors, too
Great for home use and cat
Great kit for hobbyist or professional
You will succeed in almost every operation as long as you master the skills

Best For keeping labor hours: Fluke Networks Cat6 Punchdown Tool

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If you are terminating a high number of jacks, this tool is worth its weight in gold. The Patented jack termination tool allows you to terminate jacks 8 times faster. It works (with cat 6e) to use a punch down tool to seat the wires in to the terminals (leviton extreme) and then use the rapidjack to cut the wires. Once that is terminated with the tool, the plastic piece that snaps over the termination that comes with the jack allows you to hold it coming out the side or straighten the cable out to come out the back depending on which way you snap it on.

It comes out perfect and in less time than punching the wires down one at a time. If you're doing 24 to 48 port patch panels or multiple postions for CAT5 or 6, you need this tool.

Why We Like This:

Makes punching down that much less of a pita
Improved termination time 10 times faster
Good brand reputation

Best With Cat: Fluke Networks regular IDC Tool

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The fluke networks regular idc tool is the best reliable tool on the market today. If you have a flat stable surface, sufficient cable length, and a steady hand, a regular punch down tool is more efficient. It works (with cat 6e) to use a punch down tool to seat the wires in to the terminals (leviton extreme) and then use the rapidjack to cut the wires. It makes terminating jacks much faster and easier on the hands.

This really is a GREAT tool and a huge time saver. The trim on the wires is really nice and clean. This saves so much time over a normal 110 punch.

Why We Like This:

Narrow choices on connectors but saves time
A fantastic option for any network tech
Makes punching down that much less of a pita
Improved termination time 10 times faster

Best For Ethernet: Necables Cat6 Punchdown Tool

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The features department is where necables cat6 punchdown tool truly manages to shine. The yellow wire stripper makes stripping cables easily with adjustable sizes. Not only does it hold the keystone in place, but can also help guide the Ethernet cable to lay flat. It includes the small punchdown/wire stripper tool, which is surprisingly sturdy. This prevents any tension in the cable from popping out the wires before you’re done.

This stand makes things much, much easier. It is compatible with most regular keystone jacks, rj11 / rj12 / rj45, 90 degree or 180 degree. It is easy to be scraped or cracked.

Why We Like This:

Great tool set if you're doing lots of receptacles
Makes punching down a keystone jack 100% easier
Delivers what they promise

Best For occasional Use: Cable Matters Cat6 Punchdown Tool

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We would, of course, be remiss if we didn't mention cable matters cat6 punchdown tool for daily purpose. This is a cheaply made tool that does the job if used carefully. The Spring-loaded reversible blade with scissors cuts excess wire automatically for a clean connection. It cuts fine as long as the end of your wire is poking straight out. The KRONE tools have a scissor type cutter, so trims wire accurately, the gap between insertion blades is smaller, so cable can't get wrapped around the connector and always gets punched down. It is perfect for the occasional use.

Why We Like This:

Integrated wire-stripper blade seated in the body of the tool with protective guide
Plastic handle feels a bit flimpsy, but holds up well
Handy tool for doing a lot of punch downs
Pop-out hook and extractor tool for removing old wires or pushing down wires