Hole Punches

Which hole punch should you choose?

The first thing to check is what type of binder or folder the papers will be inserted into. Not all hole punches have the same number of holes or hole spacing. It is therefore a good idea to compare different models before making your choice.

Two-hole punches

A standard 2-hole punch is suitable for documents that will be stored in standard two-ring binders. The hole spacing is normally 80 mm, making this a common choice for document management in offices.

Three-hole punches

A three-hole punch creates three holes and is used for binders with a matching hole pattern. Make sure the hole placement is compatible with your binder, especially if you are adding documents to an existing filing system.

Hole punches for Filofax and planners

If you want to insert your own pages into a Filofax or another planner, you will need a hole punch designed specifically for that format. These models have a different hole pattern than standard office hole punches.

Check both the number of holes and the hole spacing, as different planner formats may require different types of hole punches.

How many sheets should the hole punch handle?

The punch capacity indicates how many sheets of paper can be punched at the same time. For occasional documents, a smaller model is often sufficient. However, if you regularly work with thicker stacks of paper, it may be worth choosing a more heavy-duty hole punch.

Also look for features that make the job easier, such as an adjustable paper guide that helps position the holes correctly. Many models also include a waste container for paper scraps that can be emptied when needed.

Consider hole spacing and paper formats

It is easy to focus on how many sheets a hole punch can handle, but do not forget the hole spacing. If the holes are positioned incorrectly, the papers will not fit the binder, regardless of how good the hole punch is.

If you plan to use the hole punch for different paper formats, a model with an adjustable paper guide can be a practical choice. Check the product specifications to see which paper formats and binder systems each hole punch is designed for.