Three-ring binders are an easy way to store your documents. After all, just about everyone has used one at some point (probably in high school), plus they're common and not too expensive. However, to use a three-ring binder, you'll either need pre-punched paper or a three-hole punch. A three-hole punch is a must-have product for just about every office and if yours needs one, you may not know what to look for when buying one. So here are the things you need to think about before making your big purchase.
1.) Punching capacity. How many pages your potential device can puncture is the single most important factor to consider when buying a three-hole punch. These devices can process a few as 3 sheets at a time or as many as 50 or more. Basically, the more paper you need to process, the more sheets your device should be able to handle.
2.) Three holes? More? Less? Having a three-hole punch with adjustable heads can make it possible for you to produce different punching patterns with the device. This can come in very handy if you need to produce a two-hole pattern or you find yourself working with binders with an unconventional amount of rings. Having a device with adjustable heads eliminates the need for other punching devices, which can help you save space and money.
3.) Manual vs. electric. Like many other office machines, hole punches can be either manual or electric. Manual punches tend to be less expensive but they do require a little bit more effort to use, especially if you're working with a lot of paper. Electric devices work a lot faster so they're better for high-volume environments. They're also more expensive and can break down easier.
4.) What's it made out of? As with any other product, you will want to make sure the three-hole punch you choose is well-made. An all-metal device will last much longer than a product comprised of plastic parts. You especially need to make sure the punching heads are metal and that they can be easily replaced because they'll definitely become dull after a while.
5.) Price and brand. Obviously, price will be a consideration when selecting your three-hole punch. Be sure to pick the best device you can afford so you won't need to replace it shortly after buying it. As for brands, Swingline produces some of the best punches you can buy, and they make both manual and electric models. GBC also manufactures some great electric punches such as the 3230ST that can also staple your documents, so that's one option if your budget allows it.
As you can see, there are a number of things to consider when you buy a three-hole punch. Punching capacity is the most important thing to think about, but be sure to also consider whether there are adjustable (and replaceable) heads, if you can plug it in, and what materials were used when the device was constructed. If you consider all of these things, as well as your budget and the brands available, you are well on your way to selecting the perfect three-hole punch for your office.