Best Mini Heat Gun — Buyers Guide, Review and Comparison

When your work demands precision and detail — you need a mini heat gun. These versatile power tools are as useful for the committed DIYer as the serious crafter. A concentrated hot air plume, lightweight, and pencil-grip manipulation allow for impressive control.

Top Mini Heat Guns 2024

IMAGE PRODUCT DETAILS
Engindot HGP35AC
  • Wattage: 350 watts
  • Temperature: 662 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Weight: 15.1 ounces.
  • Cord length: 6.25 feet.

Features

  • Rubberized handles.
  • Two-year warranty.
  • Delivers 300 liters per minute.

Product Rating: 4.8/5

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MLife HAG001
  • Wattage: 300 watts.
  • Temperature: 392/572 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Weight: 11.2 ounces.
  • Cord length: 6.5 feet.

Features

  • Choice of two temperatures.
  • Insulated shell for cool hands.
  • Integrated overheating protector.

Product Rating: 4.7/5

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Etepon Mini Gun
  • Wattage: 300 watts.
  • Temperature: 392 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Weight: 9.8 ounces.
  • Cord length: Three feet.

Features

  • Tough ABS casing.
  • Expansive knurling to elevate grip.
  • Distinctive nozzle protector.

Product Rating: 4.6/5

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Mofa D9
  • Wattage: 130 watts.
  • Temperature: 392 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Weight: 7.2 ounces.
  • Cord length: 3.3 feet.

Features

  • Integrated stand.
  • Narrow diameter nozzle for detailed work.
  • Lightweight.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

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Worx MAKERX WX743L.9
  • Voltage: 20 volts.
  • Temperature: 500 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Weight: 0.63 pounds.
  • Cord length: 4.4 feet connected to lithium cell.

Features

  • Lithium driven.
  • Narrow focus nozzle.
  • Rapid heat-up.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

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Seekone HG350
  • Wattage: 350 watts.
  • Temperature: 662 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Weight: 0.856 pounds.
  • Cord length: 4.9 feet.

Features

  • Nozzle shield.
  • Integrated stand.
  • Excellent ventilation.

Product Rating: 4.5/5

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Milwaukee 2688-20
  • Wattage: 360 watts.
  • Temperature: 875 degrees Fahrenheit.
  • Weight: 1.7 pounds.
  • Cord length: None.

Features

  • Excellent for DIY.
  • LED light to illuminate dimly-lit areas.
  • It can be used hands-free.

Product Rating: 4.3/5

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Mini Heat Gun Buying Guide

These hot air machines are the little brothers of the standard DIY units. Unlike their more substantial siblings — which tend to be about the size of an electric drill — mini heat guns are much more compact.

Firstly, this makes them ideal for in-house hot air tools — as opposed to the workshop or garage home for the standard DIY machine. Their small nature means you can store them in drawers, hobby boxes, or cupboards — without taking up excessive space.

Secondly, being lightweight and lacking in mass, they’re easier to manipulate and hold — making them ideal for projects that require precision and attention to detail. Whether you’re a crafter or a DIYer — a miniature heat gun can provide the accurate control you require for a perfect finish to your work.

When selecting your perfect small heat gun, consider:

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Temperature.
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Weight.
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Length of the cord.
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Inclusion of a stand.
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Rapid heat up.
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Nozzle protector.

Applications for a Miniature Heat Gun

Unlike other tools, such as screwdrivers, which, well, drive screws — you can utilize mini hot air machines to tackle an enormous range of projects.

Typically, they deliver a temperature output of around 370 degrees Fahrenheit — making them equally suited to the DIY enthusiast and arty hobbyist.

In the home, you can use a small heat gun for DIY applications, such as:

  • Shrink tubing.
  • Defrosting pipes.
  • Stripping small areas of paint.
  • Loosening rusted bolts.
  • Melting solder.
  • Removing broken smartphone screens.
  • Softening caulk.

Or, if you are more craft-minded, then the miniature heat gun is ideal for:

  • Melting embossing powder.
  • Removing stickers.
  • Making candles.
  • Shrink wrapping.
  • Drying acrylic paint.
  • Forming foam.
  • Softening clay.
  • Making soap.
  • Decorating cookies.

How to Choose the Best Small Heat Gun

With a broad range of mini heat guns on the market — selecting the ideal tool for your personal requirements can be a challenge. Hence, to guide you in the right direction, I’ve put together a useful buying guide — indicating some of the factors you should consider.
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Dual Temperature

Some higher-end mini hot air guns offer more than one temperature setting. This increases their versatility — enabling you to tackle a wider variety of projects.

If you’re a crafter who mainly completes small and intricate work, a single low heat level will probably be sufficient.

However, if you’re a DIY nut, you will no doubt appreciate being able to crank your unit up another notch — making it ideal for stripping paint or removing lacquer.

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Weight

The perfect weight of your heat gun comes down to individual preference.

Some users enjoy the feeling of a substantial tool in their hands — with many DIYers considering that a hefty hot air gun is easier to manipulate. That being said, some people may find that if they’re wielding a heavy machine, especially for extended periods, it can lead to hand and wrist fatigue or pain.

Hence, seniors — or those with existing joint issues such as arthritis — may find a lighter unit more comfortable to use.

Cord Icon

Cord Length

Personally, I would always opt for a longer mains cable.

This increases your freedom — enabling you to tackle larger projects without the use of an extension cord. Admittedly, some DIYers may consider that if the power lead is excessively lengthy, it may be akin to wielding a crazy eel.

However, my view on this is — you can always make a long cable shorter — but not vice versa.

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Integrated Stand

In my opinion, this is an essential feature — so always ensure your small heat gun possesses an integrated stand.

These supports enable you to safely put down your hot air machine — whether to adjust your material, nip to the bathroom, or have a cup of coffee — without risk of the hot nozzle burning or scorching your table or workbench.

Versatility icon

Rapid Heat Up

I’m incredibly impatient — especially when it comes to new power tools.

I’m like a child at Christmas — ripping open the box and wanting to play with my new toy as soon as possible.

So, if you’re like me, you may welcome a rapid heat-up feature. This enables the mini hot air heat gun to quickly achieve its operating temperature setting — allowing you to get to work as soon as possible.

Furthermore — if you’re tackling numerous projects in a single day — waiting for your unit to warm up wastes precious minutes, which can be an issue if time is limited.

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Nozzle Protector

I’m stating the obvious here — but these mini guns become very hot.

At the ‘business-end’ of the machine, the nozzle channels the heat onto your DIY project. Hence, touching this vital component will lead to scorches and burns.

So, seek out a miniature unit that possesses a substantial nozzle protector — keeping your — and your kids — fingers away from the high temperatures. Many are colored in a different tone to the rest of the machine, clearly demarking the hottest part of the gun.

ease of use

Textured Casing

Unlike the larger DIY guns — these mini versions don’t usually have a handle. Instead, you grasp the outer shell of the unit — very much as you would hold a pencil.

Many manufacturers have designed casings that are highly textured. Like the tread on a car tire — it increases traction, ensuring that the gun remains firmly between your fingers. By reducing the risk of slippage, you’re less likely to have ‘accidents’ that ruin your work. It also lowers the chance of unwanted burns to your precious skin.

Additionally, heavy knurling elevates airflow around your digits, reducing the likelihood of perspiration.

Best Mini Heat Gun — The Top Five

Down to the meat — the mini hot air guns themselves!

After researching customer opinion, checking the views of heat gun experts, and utilizing my own DIY knowledge and insight — I believe I’ve found the ultimate five miniature machines on the market.

Engindot HGP35AC

Best Single Temperature

Engindot HGP35AC

Our Rating: 4.8

In my opinion, this machine is the ultimate mini hot air gun currently available.

Designed with a strong DIY aesthetic — this single heat setting tool reaches a temperature of 662 degrees Fahrenheit in seconds — allowing you to crack on with your projects without wasting time.

This machine incorporates a nickel-chromium heating coil — a material that should provide hours of hot air use — increasing the lifespan of this hot air gun. Furthermore, a durable and insulated shell shields the delicate internal components from damage, while also remaining cool during use. Additionally, this casing boasts both upper and lower rubberized hand grips — elevating its stability in your hand.

The nozzle is encased by a translucent protector that should keep inquisitive fingers safe from harm. This part of the hot air gun also houses the foldaway stand — allowing you to leave the machine running while you take a well-deserved break.

And, there’s more than just a miniature heat gun in the box.

This tool arrives complete with a spoon reflector nozzle. Attaching effortlessly to the end of the gun, it will ensure even heat distribution around cylindrical materials. Hence, it’s ideal for shrinking wire tubing or molding plastic pipes.

Perhaps the standout feature of this unit is the power cord. Being 6.25 feet in length — it’s more extensive than most of its competitors and should increase working freedom. This may appeal to those DIYers working in difficult-to-reach areas, such as under basins or in car engine bays.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Over six feet of cable.
N
Weighs 15.1 ounces.
N
16 air vents.
N
Rubber grips.
N
Insulated shell.
N
Bold DIY aesthetic.

Cons:

N
Lacks a dual temperature feature.

MLife HAG001

Best Dual Temperature Mini Heat Gun

MLife HAG001

Best Dual Temperature Mini Heat Gun

Our Rating: 4.8

Should you be looking for a mini hot air gun that has the capability to cope with both small and larger-scale projects — I feel this machine could be the answer.

This miniature unit has a dual temperature feature. A rear-mounted rocker switch allows you to move effortlessly between the LOW (392 degrees Fahrenheit) mode and the HIGH (572 degrees Fahrenheit) setting. Hence, for small intricate jobs, keep it on low. For more extensive applications, turn it up to high.

The casing of this hot air gun tapers toward the middle section — an ergonomic feature that should allow the tool to fit both snugly and comfortably in your hand. And, when you’re ready to put the unit down — simply pull out the integrated stand, allowing you to sit the gun horizontally on your bench.

Safety is at the core of this miniature heat gun. A bold, red-colored nozzle shield keeps fingertips free from danger. Furthermore, an integrated overheating protector ensures that neither the delicate heating coil, nor your hands, are exposed to unsafe temperatures.

Weighing 11.2 ounces, this machine shouldn’t cause any undue discomfort, even during extended use. Additionally, it carries enough heft for those who like the feel of a substantial tool in their hands.

Perhaps the only downside to this gun is that it doesn’t incorporate a rapid heat-up feature — which may deter the more impatient types. However, it does include a 6.5-foot power cord — longer than many of its competitors.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Dual temperatures.
N
Ergonomically-designed handle.
N
Available in a choice of two colors.
N
Insulated body.
N
Overheating protector.

Cons:

N
Lacks texture on the handle — may be liable to slip.

Etepon Mini Gun

Best Mini Heat Gun for Seniors

Our Rating: 4.6

If you have difficulty with your handgrip, or have wrist issues — this may be the consummate hot air gun for you.

Weighing just 9.5 pounds — this machine should suit users such as seniors or those who have trouble manipulating a tool for extended periods of time. And, since the casing of the unit is relatively wide, it may appeal to those who lack the finger dexterity to wield a smaller machine. This outer shell is heavily knurled over its full length, thereby improving grip and reducing perspiration and slippage.

A rapid heat feature allows this miniature heat gun to reach its operating temperature of 392 degrees Fahrenheit within seconds. The rear of the unit boasts 10 extensive air vents — improving airflow through the unit and ensuring the body of the tool remains cool while in use.

The operation of this small heat gun is remarkably straightforward. Simply click the rocker switch on the rear of the unit into the ON position and, after a few seconds, you’re ready to get down to your DIY or crafting. And, when you need a breather, just unfold the integrated stand.

The solid black body of the machine contrasts with the distinctive red nozzle protector — making it easy for those challenged in the vision department to differentiate between the hot and cool areas of the gun.

My only criticism of this miniature machine is the power cord. Being just three feet long, you need to be fairly near a power socket to operate.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Ideal for seniors.
N
12-month warranty.
N
Robust ABS casing.
N
Lightweight.
N
Extensive texturing for elevated grip.
N
Clearly demarcated nozzle protector.

Cons:

N
Short mains cable.
N
It cannot be used for more than 10 minutes at a time.

Mofa D9

Best Mini Heat Gun for Crafting

Mofa D9

Best Mini Heat Gun for Crafting

Our Rating: 4.5

Perhaps you’re not interested in the DIY applications of miniature heat guns. Instead, you just want to get down to some intense crafting. If that sounds familiar, this could be your artwork choice.

Angled at the hobby enthusiast — this machine features a narrow concentrator nozzle, ideal for precise and accurate crafting work. Furthermore, being encased by a substantial finger protector — the risks of scalds and burns are minimized.

Reaching a temperature of 392 degrees Fahrenheit, this miniature hot air gun is suitable for a plethora of art uses — such as embossing, shrink-wrapping, candle making, softening clay, and foam shaping.

Available in three different colors — you can select the tool that suits your personal aesthetic. And, with a heavily knobbled casing, you’re assured of a firm grip — ensuring that accidental slips don’t ruin your precious artwork.

The unit weighs 7.2 ounces — which may be too light for some — or conversely appeal to those who struggle with hand strength. But, even if it does become too heavy, the fold-down stand allows you to safely take a welcome break.

Ten air vents increase ventilation through the unit, keeping your hands cool during operation and extending the life of the internal heating coil. Bear in mind that the mains lead on this unit is only 3.3 feet long — significantly shorter than many of its competitors.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Suitable for the committed crafter.
N
Narrow nozzle for precise work.
N
Available in a choice of colors.
N
Lightweight.
N
Knobbled casing.
N
Integrated stand.

Cons:

N
Short mains cable.
N
Not really suited to DIY work.

Worx MAKERX WX743L.9

Best Battery-Powered

Our Rating: 4.5

A quirky take on in the mini hot air machine category — being the only battery-powered unit.

The WX743L.9 is driven by a Worx 20-volt lithium-ion cell that’s compatible with a plethora of other tools in the brand’s range. However, being a mini-unit, there’s nowhere to incorporate the cell in the machine — meaning you have to connect it via a four-foot power cord, which, in my opinion, somewhat negates the portable battery feature.

Furthermore, this heat gun is supplied as tool-only — meaning you need to purchase the charger and cell separately.

The machine promises to have the fastest start-up in the mini arena — almost instantaneously reaching its maximum operating temperature of 500 degrees Fahrenheit. And, with an incorporated rest stand, your workbench or desk is shielded against the risk of accidental burning.

This hot air machine features an integrated narrow focus nozzle — permitting precise and intense targeting of the heat output. However, with no interchangeable heads, your jobs are restricted to the typical home and craft applications of lock thawing, shrink wrapping, and adhesive removing.

The outer casing build is basic — with no additional grips or ergonomic shaping to enhance user practicality and comfort. But, available at a relatively modest price point, it holds a respectable quality to value ratio.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
In-built prop stand.
N
Novel battery-powered feature.
N
Lightweight.
N
Fuss-free operation.
N
Rapid heat-up.
N
Reasonable price.
N
Lightweight.

Cons:

N
Requires cable connection to the battery pack.
N
Charger and cell not included.
N
No hand grips.
N
Single nozzle.

Seekone HG350

Best Budget

Seekone HG350

Best Budget

Our Rating: 4.5

Versatile, safety-focused, yet at a pleasing price point — this machine may appeal to home crafters and light DIYers on a budget.

Its integrated 3.0-amp motor drives out a welcome 300 lpm of hot air and reaches a satisfactory 662 degrees Fahrenheit — making the unit suited to a plethora of home applications such as card crafting, wax melting, decal removal, and wire sheath shrinking.

At the front of the machine, it boasts a see-thru nozzle protector, shielding your fingers against accidental burns should your hand slip. An in-built stand permits safe storage during operation — and as it’s hinged, you can effortlessly fold it out of the way to streamline the gun.

The rear of the heat gun features substantial ventilation slits — allowing for impressive heat dissipation when in use. Not only will this keep the body of the tool cool and comfortable to hold, but also safeguards the internal components from overheating — elongating the unit’s lifespan.

Focusing on the traditional pencil barrel design, and incorporating a rear, not side-mounted, mains cord — the tool promises fuss-free and accurate wielding for both left and right-handers. And, with an ergonomic anti-slip casing design, it delivers reassuring stability even with perspiring hands.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Generous 4.9-foot cable.
N
Lightweight — just 13.7 ounces.
N
24 air vents.
N
Nozzle shield.
N
Impact-resistant.
N
Includes removable reflector nozzle.

Cons:

N
No dual temperature.
N
Slow to cool after use.

Milwaukee 2688-20

Best Cordless Mini Heat Gun

Our Rating: 4.3

If you want to break free from the shackles of mains cables — this cordless heat gun could be your liberator.

At first sight, this hot air unit seems out of context with other tools in this rundown — not being the typical pen shape of a miniature machine. However, when you consider its compact dimensions (7.4 by 8.9 inches) and its category-comparable 360-watt output — it deserves to be included.

Admittedly, it’s more suitable for the DIYer than the crafter, due to its wide nozzle. However, you can purchase accessories for the gun, to concentrate the heat plume, making it useful for art projects.

Powered by an 18-volt battery, one charge should provide around 45 minutes of continuous operation when used on its sole temperature of 875 degrees Fahrenheit. However, as a DIY-centric mini gun — there’s no nozzle protector — so keep those fingers clear!

Unlike the other miniature hot air machines — there’s no integrated stand. However, it’s flattened-rear head and handle allows you to lay the machine pointing upright when not in use.

An ergonomic handle enables you to hold this power tool in a pistol grip position — activating the delivery of heat by pulling a trigger. And, to save finger fatigue, you can lock-off this trigger — making extended use comfortable.

  • Design
  • Functionality
  • Price

Pros:

N
Cordless.
N
Great for DIY.
N
LED illuminator light.
N
Hands-free use.
N
Ergonomic handle.
N
Pistol grip.

Cons:

N
Unsuitable for crafting — unless you purchase additional nozzles.
N
No nozzle protector.

Conclusion


Bigger isn’t always better.

Mini hot air guns offer a compact and space-saving alternative to their larger DIY counterparts. Their relatively small size allows for intricate work and a precise finish — whether you’re heat shrinking cable sheaths, unsticking glue, or melting embossing powder.

Admittedly, if you’re planning on large projects — such as stripping a banister — they’re not the ideal tool for the job. In those circumstances, opt for a more heavy-duty unit, such as one of the best heat guns for paint removal.

However, for DIY or crafting work, where you need a little finesse, they’re tough to beat.

When selecting your ideal miniature hot air gun, consider what you need from your unit. If you’re planning on mainly using it for DIY, a dual temperature machine may be more suitable. If you’re completing larger jobs — a lengthy cord or even a cordless model could be the answer. Alternatively — if you lack hand or wrist strength — look at those guns that are lightweight and have substantial case texturing.

The best mini heat gun proves that good things do come in small packages

Mini Heat Guns FAQs

Q: How Hot Does a Mini Heat Gun Get?

Typically, the minimum temperature of these compact heat guns is around 372 degrees Fahrenheit. Although, some units offer settings in excess of 600 degrees Fahrenheit.

Q: Can I Use a Mini Hot Air Gun for Paint Removal?

You can, but only on small sections of work. Compact heat guns possess sufficient heat to melt paint. However, as the hot air plume is concentrated on a limited area, they are unsuited to heavy-duty stripping projects.

Q: Should I Use a Mini Gun for Embossing?

Miniature heat guns are the perfect tool for craft embossing. Unlike hairdryers, they will not blow your embossing powder across the room.

Q: Will Mini Heat Guns Tint Car Windows?

Not really. The heat plume emitted from a miniature heat gun isn’t sufficiently broad to tint windows. However, they are useful for other automotive applications, such as removing decals and shrinking cable wraps.

Q: Can Children Use Mini Heat Guns for Art Projects?

Yes. But take some precautions.

Before use, explain the dangers of heat guns to your children and why safety is crucial. Never leave kids unsupervised with a hot air machine — end ensure you choose a unit that has a nozzle protector.

Q: How Heavy Are Miniature Heat Guns?

A typical mini hot air gun weighs around 9-12 ounces. This is lightweight when compared to the full-size machines, which usually have a mass of 1.5 pounds and above.

Q: Can I Char Meat With a Mini Hot Gun?

No. These machines are not designed for food applications.