A handy tube of super glue can quickly turn complicated home repairs into quick fixes—if you have the right product. From the simple solution for a chipped tile to sealing your leaky garden hose, the best super glue can ensure that the job is done correctly and will hold firmly. This is important since few things are as frustrating as having to redo your own repair because you initially used a subpar product.
Super glue really is the DIYer’s dream tool, right up there with duct tape, thanks to a chemical composition that quickly creates strong, long-lasting bonds capable of withstanding significant shock and impact forces. Though designed for use on all types of material, different types of super glue have benefits and specialized purposes geared to various projects. (If you aren’t sure what product would best suit a particular job, check out “The Right Glue for Every Repair Job.”) We’ve tested the top super glues on the market to find the best super glues for a variety of projects. Here, get the 411 on super glue formulas, applications, bonding times, and more—and find out why the following products made our list of top picks.
- BEST OVERALL: Gorilla Super Glue Gel
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Super Glue 15187
- BEST FOR CERAMIC: Gorilla Super Glue with Brush & Nozzle Applicator
- BEST FOR METAL: Loctite Super Glue Ultra Gel Control
- BEST MICRO-PRECISION: Gorilla Micro Precise Super Glue
- BEST FOR PLASTIC: Krazy Glue KG94548R
- BEST FOR GLASS: Loctite Glass Glue
- BEST FOR LAMINATE: DAP Weldwood Original Contact Cement
- BEST FOR FABRIC: Aleene’s Super Fabric Adhesive
- BEST SUPER GLUE REMOVER: Bob Smith Industries Debonder
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Super Glue
Ingredients
The difference between a “super glue” and other types of glue is the chemical formula that its adhesion relies on. For example, white glues rely on water evaporation to allow the polyvinyl acetate latex to form a bond between the crevices it has seeped into. Super glue works using a process called anionic polymerization, which takes place when its main ingredient, cyanoacrylate (C5H5NO2), comes in contact with hydroxyl ions in water.
Put simply, super glue only requires water to bond. Given that nearly any surface will have water molecules from the humidity in the air, super glue bonds to almost any surface within a short period of time. So read ingredient labels: If the product you’re looking at does not contain cyanoacrylate, it’s not a super glue and will likely not work the way you want it to.
Surface Adhesion
Super glue’s exceptional bond relies on a chemical reaction between cyanoacrylate and water. This process creates a strong mesh structure that hardens to bond objects together. However, different types of super glue are designed for very different surfaces. Some formulas produce a gel-like substance ideal for porous surfaces such as wood that may require a longer bonding time. Other formulas have a liquid texture to bond well with smooth surfaces such as metal or polyethylene plastic. Read packaging information to identify the type of surface a super glue is intended for.
Application
A project such as replacing loose bathroom tiles may require a broad application of super glue and call for a large tube of at least 5 grams. You’ll find two types of applicators on tubes of this size: the classic style, with a tip that can be either cut or pierced for desired flow, or a brush applicator that allows you to quickly and effectively stroke glue onto a large surface area before bonding can occur.
If, however, you need to fix a tiny chip on a favorite mug, you don’t want to risk globs of glue dripping onto the item, the floor, or any other unintended surface. For such a project, select a precision tip applicator or a pen applicator. The precision tip applicator features ridged grips on the bottle and an extended tip designed for small, hard-to-reach areas. The pen applicator works similarly to a ballpoint pen: Roll the tip across a surface, and glue is released only to the area that the pen tip touches. These precision applicators help ensure neat, clean results. But no matter what kind of applicator you choose, don’t stress if you make a mess. Simply check out our guide to removing super glue from all manner of surfaces, including your fingers!
Bonding Time
Most super glue products have a fairly short bonding time of 10 to 45 seconds. While this generally allows you to speed through a project, it doesn’t offer the luxury of dawdling—you’ve got to get those surfaces together quickly. Short bonding times can be an asset if you’re working in an area that’s difficult to reach, as they let you avoid holding an uncomfortable position any longer than needed. Longer bonding times of a minute or two may make it necessary for you to hold pieces of your project together long enough for adhesion; release too early and you’ll have to glue again. Read packaging info to get a handle on super glue bonding times. Note that gel products, by design, tend to take longer to bond because they’re normally used on porous surfaces that require a longer bonding time.
Additional Features
Various super glue products may include project-specific features, so read labels fully. For instance, some super glues are suited to use outdoors. Others can be painted or sanded. Some may boast an anti-clog cap to keep the glue from drying out in the tube. Packaging may also indicate the color that the glue takes on when it is dry.
Our Top Picks
The following super glue products made our list based on purpose, cost, and the satisfaction ratings of home users and DIYers.
Photo: amazon.com
Ever-popular Gorilla Super Glue Gel works well on various surfaces, including metal, wood, ceramic, stone, and even brick. The gel formula is specially designed for porous surfaces and for vertical surfaces where a liquid glue would run, creating a mess. With a fantastic bonding time of 10 to 30 seconds without clamping, this super glue is an excellent option for almost any project.
Gorilla Super Glue Gel performs exactly as described. It worked on metal, wood, and most plastics in testing. We did test it on polyethylene plastic, even though the product description said it would not work on that material—it doesn’t. Overall, we were impressed with its quick bonding time and strong hold. It’s an excellent all-around super glue to keep in your tool drawer for almost any household repair job.
Product Specs
- Size: 20 grams
- Bonding time: 10 to 45 seconds
- Applicator: Pen tip
Pros
- Doesn’t ooze out too quickly
- Doesn’t run
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- Somewhat difficult to get the glue to flow at times.
Get the Gorilla Super Glue Gel on Amazon or at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
This pack of a dozen 2-gram, single-use tubes from the original Super Glue company lets you bond wood, ceramic, metal, plastic, and many other surfaces. Each single-use tube is intended for one quick fix requiring a small amount of glue, such as fixing a loose screwdriver handle—just apply where needed and toss the tube when done. While this isn’t the best packaged super glue on the market, its short dry time of 10 to 30 seconds, bargain price, and overall effectiveness make it a handy product to stash in a utility drawer or tool box.
The original Super Glue passed our testing, mostly with flying colors. It created strong bonds on metal, wood, glass, ceramics, and all types of plastic, including polyethylene plastic. The only surface it did not work on was porous wood. It was also hard to control the glue’s flow from the tube, and it did run over and get all over our fingers. Overall we were impressed with the glue, and we love that it’s very affordable, but it’s a good idea to have a debonder on hand.
Product Specs
- Size: 12 count 2-gram tubes (24 grams total)
- Bonding time: 10 to 30 seconds
- Applicator: Pen tip
Pros
- Paintable and sandable once cured
- Comes with handy storage case
- Works on polyethylene plastic
Cons
- Does not bond porous surfaces
- Hard to control flow
Get The Original Super Glue (pack of 12) on Amazon or at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
This glue features a unique formulation that includes rubber particles used on plastic, metal, stone, fabric, paper, and rubber, among other materials. It dries in less than 45 seconds to a clear finish that helps make repairs undetectable.
This super glue was our top pick for the best glue for ceramics. The gel glue features two nozzle options: a fine-bristle brush for smaller repair jobs needing little glue, and a precision-tip nozzle for quick, accurate dispensing. The glue does a fantastic job holding together ceramic, but it also passed our glue tests on other materials, including glass, wood, plastic, and metal. Like all Gorilla brand super glues, this adhesive does not work on polyethylene plastics. The gel formula makes it easy to apply and readjust if needed. However, this glue is not FDA approved or water resistant, so it should not be used on surfaces that come in contact with food.
Product Specs
- Size: 12 grams
- Bonding time: 10 to 45 seconds
- Applicator: Pen tip and brush
Pros
- Gel formula is easy to see upon dispensing
- 2 applicator options included
- Bonds almost immediately
Cons
- Nozzle applicator takes practice
- Rim of container gets messy when using brush
- Very strong odor when wet
Get the Gorilla Super Glue with Brush & Nozzle Applicator on Amazon, at Ace Hardware, or at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
The inclusion of rubber nanoparticles gives Loctite Ultra Gel Control Super Glue amazing bonding properties, especially for adhering metals together. The glue forms an ultra-strong, effective bond and also increases resistance to water, shock, vibration, chemicals, and impact, making it ideal for metal surfaces and outdoor use. While it comes with a slightly longer bonding period of 1 minute and fully cures within 24 hours, once dry, it’s nearly invisible and can easily be sanded and painted so that it essentially disappears.
We found that the Loctite Ultra Gel Control Super Glue performed exceptionally well in testing. It quickly created a strong bond between metal surfaces and wood, glass, and plastic. Like all gel super glues, it did not work on polyethylene plastic. As indicated by the manufacturer, it did not work well on glazed surfaces. However, the stand-out feature of this product was the side-squeeze dispenser that gives the user complete and accurate dispensing control.
Product Specs
- Size: 4 grams
- Bonding time: 15 to 30 seconds
- Applicator: Precision tip
Pros
- Works on porous surfaces
- Easy-to-control flow with side-squeeze design
- Water and impact resistant
Cons
- Expensive
- Not suitable for use on glazed surfaces
Get the Loctite Super Glue at Ace Hardware, on Amazon, or at The Home Depot.
Photo: amazon.com
Small, intricate projects call for the fastidious application of Gorilla Micro Precise Super Glue. The no-mess applicator boasts ridged rubber grips on either side for secure, nonslip handling in precision situations. The fast-setting formula bonds to plastic, wood, metal, ceramic, and more in 45 seconds and is highly resistant to impact.
The Gorilla Micro Precise Super Glue features a similar side-squeeze dispenser, giving the user complete and accurate dispensing control. However, Gorilla’s bottle is longer, and we found it more comfortable to hold, which helps with more precise control. The gel super glue is the same formula as all the other Gorilla super glues, so it performed similarly. The only con we could see with this product is that it doesn’t work on polyethylene plastic.
Product Specs
- Size: 6 grams
- Bonding time: 10 to 45 seconds
- Applicator: Precision tip
Pros
- Easy-to-control flow with side-squeeze design
- Gel formula is easy to see upon dispensing
- Comfortable to hold
Cons
Get the Gorilla Micro Precise Super Glue on Amazon or at Target.
Photo: amazon.com
Krazy Glue provides a fast, strong bond at a budget-friendly price. It bonds almost instantly and works on a variety of surfaces, including ceramics, metal, vinyl, wood, and all plastics, including polyethylene plastic. It has a brush applicator that is easy to control and gives excellent coverage. Krazy Glue also features a no-clog cap to help keep the glue fresh and the brush bristles from sticking together.
Krazy Glue is a remarkably strong adhesive and very affordable. You only need to use a little to create a solid bond between surfaces. In testing, we found that the glue works on virtually all surfaces, including polyethylene plastic, which many gel-type super glues do not. Unlike the original Super Glue we tested (which also worked on polyethylene plastic), Krazy Glue is easy to dispense and control with its brush applicator. Although the package indicates it has a 30-second set time, we found that the bond is nearly instantaneous.
Product Specs
- Size: 5 grams
- Bonding time: 30 seconds
- Applicator: Brush
Pros
- Works on polyethylene plastic
- A little goes a long way
- Brush applicator easy to use
Cons
Get the Krazy Glue on Amazon or at Walmart.
Photo: amazon.com
Loctite Glass Glue is the go-to choice for most common glass repairs. It is formulated for use on all clear-, colored-, stained-, and tinted-glass types. It features a pen tip applicator and dries with a crystal-clear, colorless finish. It’s also water resistant and dishwasher safe.
Loctite Glass Glue did indeed bond all types of glassware to each other. In testing, we found that cleaning the surface first resulted in a stronger bond. The glass glue also worked on metal, polyethylene plastic, and sealed wood. It does not work on porous surfaces. Although the adhesive is advertised to work on drinkware, it is not food safe. The manufacturer recommends only using the glue to fix broken stems, handles, or other glass parts that do not come into contact with consumables.
Product Specs
- Size: 2 grams
- Bonding time: 5 to 60 seconds
- Applicator: Pen tip
Pros
- Dishwasher safe when cured
- Works on polyethylene plastic
- A little goes a long way
Cons
- For indoor use only
- Hard to control flow
Get the Loctite Glass Glue on Amazon, at Ace Hardware, or at The Home Depot.
Photo: homedepot.com
DAP Weldwood Original contact cement adhesive is a multipurpose neoprene rubber adhesive that forms a high-strength bond on laminate surfaces, veneers, leather, and plastics. It spreads easily and dries tack-free. It does have a longer bonding time—up to 15 minutes, which allows for adjusting if needed.
This glue is ideal for bonding plastic laminate to countertops. It also works on leather, pliable plastics, and wood veneers. It does not work well to bond metal, glass, or polyethylene plastic. It does take a while to bond, but it forms a sticky bond initially to hold the objects together. The applicator brush is large and coarse and not meant for precision application. In testing, it worked well for its intended purpose.
Product Specs
- Size: 3 ounces
- Bonding time: 15 minutes
- Applicator: Brush
Pros
- Creates a strong, flexible bond
- High-heat resistant and water resistant
- For interior and exterior use
Cons
- Takes 15 minutes to bond
- Messy to apply
Get the DAP Weldwood Original at The Home Depot, at Walmart, or at Lowe’s.
Photo: amazon.com
Aleene’s Super Fabric Adhesive allows users to create costumes and alter everyday wearables, accessories, and crafts without sewing. The glue dries clear and does not yellow over time. It creates a maximum-strength but flexible bond on cotton, denim, nylon, linen, elastic, and other fabric types. It can be used to attach various embellishments like beads, sequins, and lace. Best of all, once cured, the adhesive is machine washable.
In testing, Aleene’s Super Fabric Adhesive performed precisely as described. It formed durable bonds on various types of fabrics and held embellishments steadfast. It even held up to washing and drying. This adhesive is a must for crafters who like to customize their clothing or any DIYer who wants to hem pants or curtains without using a sewing machine.
Product Specs
- Size: 1.5 ounces
- Bonding time: 2 to 4 hours
- Applicator: Pen tip
Pros
- Machine washable when cured
- Flexible when dry
- Dries clear
Cons
- Tube design can get messy
Get Aleene’s Super Fabric Adhesive on Amazon, at Michaels, or at Joann.
Photo: amazon.com
When working with super glue, it’s always wise to have a debonder on hand. Bob Smith Industries Debonder dissolves cured cyanoacrylates, the adhesive substance in super glues, in about a minute. It works on bonded skin and materials. However, since cyanoacrylates are acrylic plastic, this debonder is not suitable for use on plastics.
We did have the opportunity to test how well the debonder dissolved super glue on fingers. True to its description, the substance did dissolve the glue on our fingers. However, it does not remove the glue; it just softens it enough to break the bond. To remove the glue, acetone must be used. It also worked well to dissolve cured super glue between metal and glass. It worked well on finished surfaces but not on porous wood.
Product Specs
- Size: 1 ounce
- Bonding time: Debonds in about a minute
- Applicator: Pen tip
Pros
- Works fast
- Does not damage skin
- A little goes a long way
Cons
Get the Bob Smith Industries Debonder on Amazon or at Hobby Lobby.
Our Verdict
We selected Gorilla Super Glue Gel as our top choice due to its versatility, ease of application, and bond strength. The Gorilla Super Glues in our guide are gel-based adhesives, offer a nice balance between bond strength, and are the easiest to use. However, we recommend a liquid-based super glue for bonds between difficult materials like polyethylene plastic, such as Krazy Glue or Original Super Glue, which create the strongest bond on that material.
How We Tested the Best Super Glues
We tested each super glue according to established rubrics that included surface types, applicator types, bonding time, and texture. We rated each glue based on these rubrics on a scale between 0 and 4 to determine their score.
We first determined how comfortable the glue container was and how efficiently it dispensed the glue. We then applied the glue to wood, plastic, metal, and glass (or other appropriate surfaces as indicated on the packaging). We noted the bonding time to see if it matched the bond time promised by the manufacturer. Lastly, we allowed the glue to cure to verify that the bond was intact and strong.
FAQs
Super glues are useful adhesives to keep on hand for various home improvement and crafting projects or repairs. There is a lot to consider when shopping for the best super glues, so it’s understandable if there are some lingering questions about the product. Below are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about super glues.
Q. What is the strongest super glue?
The strongest super glue will depend on the material you are trying to bond together. Gorilla Super Glue Gel creates a strong bond between most materials, but it does not work on polyethylene plastics. For polyethylene plastic, a liquid-based super glue, such as Krazy Glue or Original Super Glue, creates the strongest bond.
Q. How can I remove super glue?
A debonder, like Bob Smith Industries Debonder, is the best material to use for loosening the bonds of super glues. The debonder works by softening the cured clue so it can be pried apart without damage to the skin or surfaces. Another method is to use an acetone-based nail polish remover.
Q. How long does super glue take to dry?
Most super glues dry or bond in less than a minute. However, it takes several hours for the glue to cure.
