Best PEX Cutter in 2022: Top 10 Picks & Ultimate Buying Guide

PEX pipes are something not unheard of, and these have been widely used for decades. Homeowners, plumbers, and engineers alike prefer this pipe for their projects. The reason for their popularity is that they bring plenty of advantages to the table.

Although being cheaper than copper pipes, PEX pipes offer a reliable connection.

They also prevent rust from forming on the pipe and affecting the water quality inside. Furthermore, they are resistant to freeze-breakage!

As you’re going to install your new PEX pipe now, have you thought about what you’re going to use for cutting it?

If you’re unsure about it, then let us tell you- you need the best PEX cutter!
Keep reading this guide, and you’ll find some of our top picks that are made to handle the job flawlessly.

Benefits Of Using Pex Pipe Cutter

Like a PEX pipe itself, its cutting tool which is also known as a PEX pipe cutter offers several benefits.

Compared to regular cutting tools, such as scissors and handsaws, a PEX cutter neatly cuts the PEX pipe without leaving rough edges. A clean, straight cut is crucial for pipes because it will allow you to insert fittings properly.

Proper insertion of fittings, in turn, prevents the water from dripping out of the pipe. With its sharp stainless steel blade, a PEX cutter can cut pipes of different diameters.

It doesn’t require much effort while cutting, unlike other tools that would make you wear out. If the PEX cutter you’re using is made of high-quality materials, it will last for years!

Our List of Top 10 Best PEX Cutter in 2022

1. IWISS iCrimp PEX Pipe Cutter

The first one on the list is the Iwiss iCrimp PEX pipe cutter. It’s a lightweight tool that lets you finish your PEX pipe cutting tasks in a jiffy!

This is a scissor-style cutter, as you can tell by its design. It has a sharp stainless steel blade on one side and a curved mouth on the other.

The blade neatly cuts PEX pipes measuring 1/8 inch to 1 inch. It won’t leave any rough edges on the pipe that would otherwise give you trouble as you insert a fitting.

Since the blade is made of stainless steel, it won’t corrode over time. The aluminum alloy handle won’t corrode as well, and it is because of the material that makes the overall tool lightweight.

The best PEX tubing cutter should give you comfort, and speaking of comfort, this one lets you cut pipes using one hand! The handle works with the help of a spring.

As you open the cutter, the spring will stretch, and it will contract as you close the cutter. It is firmly affixed to its place, so there’s no chance for displacement.

Once you get the blade inserted in the PEX pipe, you can’t readjust it but keep going. You won’t have to put much effort because it cuts smoothly within seconds!

When you’re done using the tool, you can use the hook to lock the handles into place. Doing so keeps the blade away from coming into contact with skin or objects.

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Highlighted Features:

• Sharp stainless steel blade neatly cuts PEX pipes
• Lightweight PEX cutter that is easier to use
• The hook locks the handle into place
• The tool allows for cutting pipes with one hand
• You can use the tool for cutting 1/8 inch to 1 inch PEX pipes
• Not suitable for cutting metallic pipes and cable wires

2. Zantlea Pipe and Tube Cutter

If you’re looking for a ratchet-style cutter, you can take a look at this one by Zantlea!
The Zantlea pipe and tube cutter let you cut not only PEX pipes, but also PVC, PE-XB, and PPR pipes.

It is a versatile tool that comes in handy for different projects that require the use of the aforementioned pipes. You don’t need to go out and purchase separate cutters! Starting with the blade, it is 2.5mm thick and is made of manganese steel.

Since the material is highly resistant to impact and abrasion, it won’t give up as you cut through PEX pipes. Every time you cut a pipe, the blade will ensure a clean cut.

If you’re working on PEX pipes having a smaller diameter, you can use this tool because it has a cutting capacity of less than 1-1/4 inches.

The ratchet design allows you to cut pipes without applying much effort. Its spring handles freely open and close to make the perfect cuts in just 20 seconds.

Not only that, but your hands won’t feel exhausted from holding the tool. It has a textured grip that prevents the tool from slipping while letting you work comfortably.

There’s a small steel buckle on one side of the handle. When you’re not using the tool, you can lock the blade into place by joining the handles with the buckle.

Highlighted Features:

• Manganese steel withstands impact and resists corrosion
• Can also be used for cutting other types of pipes
• You can use the cutter for cutting pipes in under 20 seconds
• The textured grip handle prevents slipping
• The steel buckle locks the blade into place

3. SharkBite Cutting Tool :U701

Alongside PEX tubes, if you are also planning to work with PE-RT, you can use this cutting tool by SharkBite!

The U701 PEX cutter is designed to make clean cuts of both PEX and PE-RT pipes measuring 1/4 inch to 1 inch. Its stainless steel blade cuts through the pipe within seconds to leave clean and square cuts that won’t cause leaks.

If you have plenty of small projects left to be completed, this PEX cutting tool will come in handy.

As for the handle, it fits your hand well without causing any discomfort. Plus, the small size lets you cut pipes using a single hand. There’s no need to put much effort, unlike other cutting tools that require the use of both hands.

The best PEX cutter should allow easy cutting, and this tool makes it as easy as cutting paper with a pair of scissors! All you need to do is place your PEX pipe in between the blade and the curved mouth and squeeze the handles.

When you hear a click sound, that’s when you’ll know that the pipe has snapped. You can then insert your desired fitting into the pipe and then crimp it in place.

If you’re mostly working in small spaces where it will be quite difficult to use a longer tool, this is what you should be using!

Highlighted Features:

• Sharp stainless steel blade provides clean and square cuts
• The handle allows you to hold the tool comfortable
• Small PEX cutting tool is ideal for working in small spaces
• You can use it to cut PEX or PE-RT pipes
• It cuts pipes within seconds

4. RIDGID 23488 Plastic Pipe And Tubing Cutter

If you don’t like the idea of buying separate cutting tools for different kinds of pipes, you would love to get this one by Ridgid!

The Ridgid 23488 plastic pipe and tubing cutter aren’t just limited to PEX, but you can also use it for cutting PVC, PE, PP, and CPVC pipes. It can accommodate pipes with diameters ranging between 1/8 inches and 1-5/8 inches.

The blade of this PEX cutter is sharp enough to cut through pipes neatly with a single stroke. But, if you plan to use it for cutting multilayer tubing, unfortunately, it’s not a suitable choice.

That’s not to say the blade isn’t strong! As long as you use it for cutting pipes it is meant to work with the cutting blade and will last longer than those in most PEX cutters!
As for the handle, it works with the help of a spring.

The handle smoothly opens and closes without causing any jams. Plus, it ensures a comfortable grip so you can easily position the blade for cutting.

If you don’t have a knife near you, you can use this cutter as an alternative. Apart from pipes and tubes, the PEX cutter does a great job of cutting twines, dowels, plastic bindings, and other items.

Like every PEX cutter should come with, this one has a hook that locks the handle into place when you’re not using it.

Highlighted Features:

• The blade is sharp and lasts longer than those in most PEX cutters
• You can use it for cutting PEX, PVC, PE, PP, and CPVC
• You can’t use it for cutting multilayer tubing
• Suitable for diameters ranging between 1/8 inches and 1-5/8 inches
• Safety hook locks the handle into place

5. LENOX Tools Tube Cutter

Another versatile tool you might want to have in your toolbox is the Lenox Tools tube cutter.

This tool lets you cut PEX, PE, and poly tubing, as long as they have a diameter of up to 1-5/16 inches. Like most PEX cutting tools it uses a sharp stainless steel blade that smoothly cuts through the pipe and leaves uniform edges.

But, not all PEX cutters have a serrated design as in this one. The serrated blade helps you cut through items having a textured surface and also soft ones.

You will need to apply minimal effort, whichever type of pipe you are going to cut with it. The blade is replaceable, and you can easily re-install a new one if you feel the need.

Regardless of how many hours it’s going to take for renovating your home, you won’t feel tired of using this tool! That’s because it has a rubber handle that provides comfort to your hand, as well as prevents slipping even in wet environments.

One thing you’ll love about this tool is the locking feature. It’s an exception compared to most PEX cutters available in the market.

Instead of the usual locking hook, this tube cutter has a latch that you can slide to lock or unlock the handle. You can do that with a single hand!

If you’re a DIY enthusiast who loves playing with tools, you don’t need to call a plumber for installing a water softener or replacing the old copper pipe in the kitchen!

Highlighted Features:

• Suitable for cutting PEX, PE, and poly tubing
• Serrated stainless steel blade ensures the perfect cuts
• You can easily replace the blade when you need
• Rubber handle ensures a comfortable grip and resists slipping
• The latch at the front locks and unlocks the handle

6. Milwaukee 48-22-4200 Pex/Tubing Cutter

The Milwaukee 48-22-4200 PEX cutter allows convenience when it comes to cutting PEX pipes.

It features a sharp and pointed steel blade that quickly cuts PEX pipes and leaves straight and smooth edges that will make it easier for you to insert just any fitting! You can use PEX pipes having diameters of up to an inch.

Although you might find it a bit difficult cutting a 1-inch pipe for the first time, you’ll get used to it.

When using any tool, your biggest concern might be the tool getting damaged due to an accidental fall. However, you don’t need to worry about that because the metal core used in this PEX cutter withstands impact!

Additionally, you don’t need to panic if you’re making mistakes while cutting! That’s because the rework groove present in the tool lets you fix those mistakes quickly.

In order to ensure you get to use the tool without experiencing hand pain, Milwaukee has added a textured grip to the handle. The grip prevents the tool from slipping out of your hand as you focus on cutting PEX pipes.

Like the previous PEX cutter, the blade of this one is replaceable, so if you ever feel the need for replacement, you can do so without a hassle! Also, it uses the same locking mechanism, so you can easily lock the handle with one hand when you’re not using the tool.

Highlighted Features:

• The replaceable steel blade cuts PEX pipes neatly
• The metal core withstands impact.
• Textured grip provides comfort and prevents the tool from slipping
• Rework groove lets you fix mistakes
• You can use the latch to lock or unlock the handle

7. Xool Portable PEX Cutting Tool

The Xool portable PEX cutting tool is another PEX cutter made to help you with your home improvement tasks.

This cutting tool is mainly designed to be used on PEX pipes, so if you’re not working with PVC and other materials, this is just for you! It accommodates PEX pipes of different diameters ranging between 1/8 inches up to an inch.

There’s no need to use a separate cutting tool for this one gives you the advantage of working with PEX pipes of different sizes.

As for the blade, it is made of stainless steel. It is sharp enough to make neat and square cuts on your pipes so that you can easily insert a fitting into them. Plus, the blade resists rust and provides a life-long service.

What makes this the best PEX pipe cutter is its ability to recover squished PEX pipes! If your PEX pipe accidentally gets squished, you can insert the rib located on one side of the handle to recover it.

While the spring design allows easy opening and closing of the handle, the handle itself provides a comfortable grip. So, if you’re spending the entire day cutting PEX pipes for installing them here and there, your hands won’t feel exhausted!

When you’re done working with the tool, you can secure the handle into place using the hook.

Highlighted Features:

• Stainless steel blade prevents rust and offers longevity
• The rib design easily recovers squished PEX pipes
• The blade makes a smooth and straight cut on pipe
• You can easily open and close the handle while working
• Safety hook secures the handle into place

Things To Consider Before Buying A PEX Pipe Cutting Tool

1. Type

Do you want to go for a scissor-style PEX cutter or the one with a ratchet style?
If you’re going to use a PEX cutter for cutting pipes of smaller diameter, say 1/4 inches, it is ideal to choose a scissor-style cutter.

For larger diameters, like 1 inch, a ratchet-style cutter will work well. Depending on the diameter of your PEX pipe, you will need to choose the cutting tool accordingly.

2. Blade Material

When you’re in search of the best PEX cutter, you need to pay attention to the material it is made of.

The blade in PEX cutters is typically made of stainless steel, which ensures sharpness and prevents the blade from rusting. If the material is of high quality, there’s no doubt your PEX cutter will last longer.

Apart from that, manganese steel is also used in the manufacturing of PEX cutter blades. It is a steel alloy containing about 14% of manganese. The material is non-magnetic and is known for its high resistance to abrasion and impact strength.

Whichever PEX cutter you use, the choice of blade material depends on personal preference.

3. Handle

Another important factor you should consider is the handle of the PEX cutter. Ideally, the one that has a rubber grip prevents the tool from slipping out of your hand and ensures a comfortable grip. You can use such PEX cutters to work for long hours.

4. Versatility

Not all PEX cutters are designed to cut PEX only. Some of these cutting tools can also be used for cutting PVC, CPVC, PPR, and other types of pipes.

So, if you’re working with other pipes alongside PEX, you might want to get a versatile PEX cutting tool.

Types Of PEX Cutters

PEX cutters are of two different types, but both have the same purpose of cutting PEX pipes.

1. Scissor-Style Cutter

Scissor-style cutters are the most common tool used for cutting PEX pipes. It resembles that of a pair of scissors, but it has a sharp blade on one side and a curved mouth on the other.

These cutters are ideal for cutting PEX pipes having a diameter of an inch or less. They are inexpensive and require some effort while cutting.

2. Ratchet-Style Cutter

Ratchet-style cutters are also similar to that of their scissor-style counterparts, but these have a stronger blade. The blade makes it ideal for cutting PEX pipes having diameters of an inch or more.

Although ratchet-style cutters are more expensive, they require less effort while cutting.

Top 5 Steps To Cut PEX Tube Easily

A PEX cutter offers the easiest way of cutting a PEX tube. Below are the steps you can follow.

Step 1: Straighten The PEX Tubing

If the PEX tube you have is rolled up, you need to lay it on a flat surface and flatten it by hand. This is an important step to ensure a straight cut.

Step 2: Measure The Length Of The Pipe

Take a measurement tape and use it to measure the length of the pipe you need. If you’re replacing an old pipe, you need to measure its length so that it matches that of the new PEX pipe.

But, you need to add an extra inch to give room for the PEX pipe to expand and contract.

Step 3: Mark Your Measurements

After you’ve measured the length, use a black, fade-resistant marker to mark across the diameter of the pipe. Make sure the mark is visible enough for you to cut along the line easily.

Step 4: Insert The PEX Tubing Into The Cutting Tool

Take the PEX cutter and position its jaws surrounding the marked line on the pipe. Make sure it is positioned properly and also the pipe remains in place.

Step 5: Cut The PEX Tubing

Once everything is set, firmly squeeze the handles together. The blade on one of the jaws should slowly penetrate the pipe by following the marked line. Keep going until the pipe is split into two pieces. The cutting should be straight and the edges smooth.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can PEX Be Cut With A Copper Pipe Cutter?

It is possible to cut PEX with a copper pipe cutter, but the problem is, that you won’t get neat cuts with the tool.

The same applies to other cutting tools, such as PVC cutters, handsaw, scissors, and an X-Acto knife. As a PEX cutter is specifically designed for cutting PEX pipes, it is a good idea to stick to this tool.

2. Do I Need To Deburr PEX Pipe?

Typically, PEX cutters cut a PEX pipe uniformly without leaving any rough edges. So as long as it makes a clean-cut, deburring is not necessary.

3. Can You Crimp PEX With Pliers?

It is possible to crimp with pliers, but you won’t get a solid seal as you would with a PEX crimping tool. So, it is better to avoid using it.

4. Is PEX Good For Water Lines?

You can install PEX pipes for water lines because they won’t corrode or affect the water quality. Also, if you install the pipe inside which acidic water flows, the water won’t have any effect on the PEX pipe.

5. Do I Have To Use Red PEX Tube For Hot And Blue For Cold?

There are different types of pex pipe but for easy identification of the water temperature, a red PEX pipe is used to indicate hot water, while a blue PEX pipe is used to indicate cold water. You can also use white PEX pipe in general.

Final Word

Nothing is more exciting than having to set things up by yourself, especially if you’re a DIY enthusiast. And with the right tools in hand, your work is going to be a lot easier than you’ve ever thought!

As for PEX pipes, they do need a PEX cutter since ordinary cutting tools won’t do the job well. You will find plenty of PEX cutters in the market, but it might prove challenging to pick the best PEX cutter.

In order to save your time, we’ve done the research and shared our recommendations with you. If you’ve found one by now, hopefully, you won’t have to deal with leaky pipes again!