When it comes to choosing a nail gun, one of the biggest questions we hear is: should I go cordless or pneumatic? The truth is, both types of tools have their strengths, and neither is a "one-size-fits-all" solution. The key is matching the right tool to the job.
Let’s start with Cordless Nailers. These battery-powered powered champs offer freedom and flexibility, especially in environments where dragging an air hose just doesn’t make sense. Whether you’re working on a roof, tackling trim work, or handling punch-list jobs at the end of a build, cordless tools let you grab and go. There’s no compressor to set up, no hose to trip over, and no worries about access to power. They’re also a great pick for quick fixes or remote job sites where portability matters most.
Want to see some of our top cordless picks in action? Check out our cordless collection: Freeman Cordless Tools
That said, cordless tools do have their limitations. Batteries need recharging. You may need backups for longer jobs. And while today's models are incredibly powerful, they can be a bit heavier and slower to cycle compared to their pneumatic counterparts.
Now, enter the pneumatic nailer. These air-powered machines are the gold standard for pros who need maximum performance. They’re lighter in hand—especially during all-day framing or roofing—and offer faster firing speeds and greater consistency. If you’re framing a house, installing siding, or just running your tools hard all day long, pneumatic delivers reliability you can count on.
Plus, when paired with a good compressor and air hose setup, you’ve got virtually unlimited power on tap. There’s no battery to monitor, no drop-off in performance, and less downtime between shots. Many contractors rely on pneumatic nailers for that exact reason: they’re built to keep up. Pneumatic Nailers are perfect when you need to fire all day without battery swaps. They're lighter in hand, deliver faster cycle times, and are super dependable.
You can explore our full line of pneumatic tools here: Freeman Pneumatic Tools
Still not sure which is best? Here’s a quick breakdown:
Choose Cordless if:
- You work in tight or remote spaces
- Portability and ease of setup are top priorities
- Your tasks are quick, scattered, or low-volume
Choose Pneumatic if:
- You need to drive hundreds of fasteners in one session
- Speed, weight, and consistency are non-negotiable
- You’re already set up with a compressor on-site
At Freeman, we offer both so you’re never limited by your setup. Match your tool to your project, and you’ll always nail it.
