Is the HOTO EasyFlow Hot Glue Gun really worth it at $50? I put this automatic rechargeable glue gun to the test to see if it’s the ultimate crafting upgrade!
I recently received the HOTO EasyFlow cordless glue gun as a gift (thanks, husband!). He found this specific bundle for $29.99 at Costco and bought it for me since he knows the way to my heart. My model came with 40 clear glue sticks plus a nice carrying case. I’ve also checked online and found it listed on Amazon and Walmart for around $50 in a slightly different bundle (30 clear + 10 colored sticks, but no carrying case). Either way, this glue gun is significantly more expensive than the the cheap glue guns that we all have that usually range around $10.
So…is the HOTO EasyFlow worth that hefty price tag? Let’s find out!
Watch the Video
Want to get a video review of this expensive glue gun? Just hit play below! Or keep reading for a written review!
What I Love About the HOTO EasyFlow Hot Glue Gun
Here are the standout features from my testing and use:
- One-hand “light-trigger” dispensing: This is the biggest one for me! Instead of having to repeatedly squeeze a trigger (which is really hard on my hands), the EasyFlow lets you lightly hold the trigger and it dispenses the glue in an even stream. This is SO MUCH BETTER than any other glue gun I’ve owned.
- USB-C rechargeable + cordless mode: I love that you’re not tied to an outlet. You can use it wirelessly after charging, or plug it in and use it while it’s charging. According to the specs, it’s rated to dispense roughly 30 glue sticks per charge. I haven’t a project that required this much hot glue, so I haven’t had to test this myself yet—I just plug it in to re-charge when I’m done working with it.
- Fast heat-up (~30 seconds): It gets up to working temperature quickly so there’s less time waiting around.
- Anti-drip and standing upright design: Another feature I love is that it stands upright. And because it stands upright, it’s not tilted forward leaking glue. I have used it quite a few times and I haven’t had any glue drip.
- Compact, ergonomic for crafting: Its size and design make it comfortable for everyday use. This is definitely a crafting glue gun, not a more industrial heavy-duty glue gun, so if you’re looking for larger applications, I’d consider the rechargeable Ryobi glue gun.
What to Be Aware Of / Minor Quirks
No product is perfect, so here are the things that I think should be mentioned:
- It “eats” one glue stick before dispensing: One weird thing I noticed is that when you start the gun fresh out of the box, it will fully feed and consume one glue stick before you see actual glue dispensing. I couldn’t believe that an entire glue stick was in there. Of course, that glue does come out but it’s just a bit unusual compared to other glue guns.
- Bundle differences: My Costco version included a carrying case and 40 clear sticks; the Amazon bundle has colored sticks but no case. Neither bundle has a USB-C cord, so you’ll need your own. Just be aware of what you’re getting when you buy!
- Glue stick size / compatibility: The unit uses the mini glue sticks (7mm) and as far as I can tell, not the larger full-size glue sticks. I do think, however, that it would work great with the hot glue roll, where you get 3′ of glue (or more) without having to re-load.
- Price / value trade-off: At $30 at Costco, I think it’s a great value. Around $50 on Amazon, however, it’s really pricey. But if you do a lot of hot gluing and it will really help with hand fatigue, you may want to check it out.
- Get the right glue gun: If you do want to buy this glue gun, make sure you are getting the EasyFlow! HOTO makes other glue guns with a traditional trigger as well at much lower price and you may not notice the difference until you go to unbox it.
My Verdict: Is It Worth It for Crafters?
Short answer: I could go either way at $50, but you may want get it if you fall into one or more of these categories:
- You craft with your glue gun a LOT (not just once in a while).
- You do repetitive gluing and want to save your hand from cramping.
- You don’t always have a conveniently placed outlet (craft fairs, vendor tables, on-the-go setups).
- You either have hand discomfort/arthritis, or just want a more comfortable tool.
Final Thoughts
For me, this is now my go-to glue gun. I specifically have issues with pain in my hand (thanks fibromyalgia!), and there are very few things that get my hand cramping faster than a traditional glue gun.
The smooth, continuous flow means I’m not constantly squeezing and re-squeezing a trigger. That alone makes it worth it for me. Add in the cordless feature and upright design, and it just feels like a thoughtful upgrade for someone who crafts regularly.
Would I recommend it to someone who pulls out a glue gun twice a year for a school project? Probably not. Your basic glue gun will do just fine.
But if you’re a frequent crafter and want tools that make your crafting experience easier and more comfortable? This is one of those small upgrades that actually improves your workflow!
At $30, I think it’s a no-brainer. But at $50, it’s a tough buy and I’d only get it if you really struggle using a traditional glue gun.
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