Best PEX Crimp and Clamp Tools for DIY Plumbing

PEX (cross-linked polyethylene) tubing has revolutionized residential plumbing. Flexible, freeze-resistant, easy to run in tight spaces, and far easier to work with than copper pipe, PEX is now the material of choice for new plumbing in most of North America. But PEX requires specific tools to make the connections – crimp tools, clamp tools, or cinch tools depending on the fitting system you use. This guide covers the tools that make PEX connections reliably and the systems that experienced plumbers recommend.

PEX Connection Systems

Crimp Fittings (ASTM F1807)

A copper crimp ring is placed over the PEX tube, the fitting is inserted, and a crimp tool compresses the ring to form a permanent mechanical connection. The most widely used connection method. Requires a dedicated crimp tool and go/no-go gauge for verification. Ratcheting crimp tools from Milwaukee and Ridgid are the standard.

Clamp Fittings (ASTM F2098)

A stainless steel ear clamp replaces the copper crimp ring. A clamp tool squeezes the “ear” of the clamp to compress it around the fitting. Creates a strong, verifiable connection. The clamp tools are more compact than crimp tools – useful in tight spaces. Uponor (Wirsbo) uses this system for their engineered fittings.

Expansion Fittings (ASTM F1960)

A special expansion tool stretches the PEX tube end outward, then the fitting is inserted – the elastic memory of the PEX causes the tube to contract back around the fitting, forming an extremely strong joint with no ring, clamp, or separate connector at the outside. This is the “ExpansionPEX” or “ProPEX” system (Uponor). Requires an expansion tool specific to this system. Produces arguably the strongest PEX connection – no ring or clamp to fail, the PEX itself forms the seal.

Push-Fit Fittings (SharkBite and Similar)

No tool required – push the PEX tube (or copper or CPVC) into the fitting and a grab ring inside creates an instant connection. Fastest and easiest but also the most expensive per fitting. Appropriate for repair and low-accessibility locations. Covered separately in the SharkBite guide in this series.

Key Features to Look For

Size Range

Most residential PEX work uses 1/2-inch, 3/4-inch, and 1-inch tubing. A crimp tool kit should include heads for all three common sizes, or individual heads should be available as accessories.

Go/No-Go Gauge

Essential for verifying that crimp rings are compressed to the correct diameter. A ring that is too loose will leak; a ring that is too tight may crack the fitting. The go/no-go gauge confirms the ring is in spec. Never omit this check.

Tool Quality and Feel

The ratchet mechanism on a crimp tool must advance smoothly and release cleanly at the end of the cycle. Poor quality ratchets hang up, require excessive force, and do not confirm completion of the crimp cycle clearly.

Our Top Picks

1. Milwaukee 2432-20 M12 PEX Crimp Tool (Cordless)

A battery-powered PEX crimp tool that eliminates the hand effort of manual crimping completely – critical for anyone making hundreds of connections in new construction or whole-house repiping. The M12 motor drives the crimp cycle in one trigger pull, reducing hand fatigue dramatically. Accepts 1/2, 3/4, and 1-inch heads. The professional tool for any large PEX installation.

2. Ridgid 57113 RPC-1 PEX Crimp Tool Kit

The professional manual PEX crimp tool standard. Ridgid’s ratcheting PEX tool advances smoothly, releases cleanly at the end of cycle, and includes go/no-go gauges for 1/2 and 3/4 inch. The tool is well-balanced and comfortable for extended manual use. The kit that most plumbers carry for repair and small installation work.

3. Apollo Valves PXVC14KIT1 PEX Cinch Tool Kit

A complete clamp (cinch) tool kit for the F2098 clamp fitting system. Includes the clamp tool in a compact form that fits into spaces where the larger crimp tools cannot operate. The clamp system is easier to verify visually than crimp rings and some plumbers prefer it for this reason. A solid alternative to the crimp system.

4. Uponor A5111000 ProPEX Expansion Tool

The expansion tool for the Uponor ProPEX expansion fitting system. Produces the strongest PEX connection available – the expanded PEX tube contracts around the fitting with significant force, eliminating the ring as a potential failure point. More expensive than crimp tools but the preferred system of many professional plumbers for its reliability. Works only with Uponor’s own ProPEX fittings.

5. IWISS F1807 PEX Crimp Tool (Budget)

For DIYers who need a PEX crimp tool for a single project: the IWISS ratcheting crimp tool handles 1/2 and 3/4 inch crimps adequately at a very accessible price. Not as durable or smooth as the Ridgid, but functional for the occasional homeowner repair and small installation project. Includes a basic go/no-go gauge.

FAQ

Is PEX better than copper pipe?

PEX is easier to install (flexible, no soldering required), more resistant to freeze damage (it can expand slightly without bursting at freeze pressures), and less expensive for the material. Copper is more durable over very long time horizons, compatible with all chemicals used in water treatment, and preferred in some regions and applications. Both are excellent materials; PEX has become the standard for most new residential plumbing.

Can I use PEX crimp fittings with clamp rings, or crimp rings with clamp fittings?

No. PEX fitting systems are not interchangeable. F1807 crimp fittings use copper crimp rings and crimp tools. F2098 clamp fittings use stainless clamps and clamp tools. F1960 expansion fittings use no ring and require the expansion tool and expansion fittings. Keep each system consistent throughout a project.

How do I verify a PEX crimp is correct?

Use the go/no-go gauge for the specific ring size. The go side of the gauge should slide over the crimped ring (confirming the ring is not too large). The no-go side should NOT slide over the ring (confirming the ring is not too small). If both sides pass or both fail, the crimp is out of spec and must be cut out and remade.