Choosing the Best Drywall Taping Tool: Automatic Taper, Banjo, or Super Taper?
When it comes to drywall taping, efficiency, speed, and ease of use are important factors in choosing the right tool for the job. These three tools are most popular for applying tape and each has it's own strengths and ideal use cases. Which one is best for you?
Automatic Taper
The Automatic Taper or Bazooka, is a high-end tool designed for professional drywallers who need to tape large areas efficiently. It simultaneously applies mud and embeds tape as you move, reducing manual effort and increasing speed.
Pros |
Cons |
Highly efficient for large-scale projects | Requires experience/practice to use effectively |
Consistent mud application | More complex to clean and maintain |
Reduces hand fatigue over long periods from hand taping | Expensive up front costs |
Best for: Professional drywallers and contractors who work on large projects and need maximum efficiency
Banjo
The Semi-Automatic Taper or Banjo is a mid-tier drywall taping tool that manually applies mud to the tape and allows for relatively quick application. It's a step up from a tape puller or hand taping but not as automated as an Automatic Taper.
Pros |
Cons |
More affordable than an automatic taper |
Can be messy if not handle properly |
Easier to learn and to use | Less consistent mud application compared to an automatic taper |
Lightweight and good for small to mid size projects | Still requires some manual effort |
Best for: DIYers and smaller to mid size jobs looking for a balance between affordability and efficiency
Tape Puller/Super Taper
The Tape Puller or Super Taper is a hybrid tool that is used to improve time spent applying mud to tape. It provides better control over mud flow but still requires manual handling.
Pros |
Cons |
More control over mud flow | Not as fast as a banjo or automatic taper |
Allows for mass application of mud on tape | Still requires manual handling and embedding of tape |
Best for: DIYers and intermediate-level drywallers who want to speed up the mud on tape application
Which One Should You Choose?
For professionals working on large projects: The Automatic Taper
Drywall Master King Automatic Taper
For small-medium projects: Banjo
For DIYers or small jobs: The Tape Puller/Super Taper