When it comes to comb binding machines GBC and Fellowes make some of the best. GBC recently released a new device: the CombBind C12. We took a look at this machine alongside the Fellowes Star to see how they compare and if one has a distinct advantage over the other. Please continue reading to find out what we noticed.
When it comes to comb binding machines, GBC and Fellowes make some of the best. GBC recently released a new device: the CombBind C12. We took a look at this machine alongside the Fellowes Star to see how they compare and if one has a distinct advantage over the other. Please continue reading to find out what we noticed.
Punching and binding capacities: The C12 can punch up to 12 sheets of paper at a time and it can bind documents that have a maximum of 200 pages. It's compatible with combs up to 1 thick. Meanwhile the Star can only punch 7 sheets and bind up to 150 with 0.75 combs. Clearly the C12 has the better punching and binding capacities, but the Star also has a vertical punching mechanism, something the GBC device lacks. Vertical punching ensures your pages will be aligned properly and the holes will be in the right place.
Ease of use: Both of these machines are more or less entry-level devices and are pretty easy to use. They both have ergonomically friendly D-shaped handles for easy punching. And they also have comb selector guides to take the mystery out of choosing the right comb. However, the C12 has something the Star doesn't: step-by-step instructions printed directly on the device. That makes the machine ideal for beginners because the instructions walk you through the entire process.
Size and appearance: The Star and C12 are on the small size. The Star's approximate dimensions are 3 (height) x 18 (weight) x 10 (depth) while the C12 approximately measures 8 x 18 x 17. Each machine is pretty modern-looking although the GBC device looks a bit better thanks to its black and silver color scheme.
Odds and ends: Neither one of these devices has disengageable dies which isn't too surprising since they're lower-end machines. The Fellowes device does have a comb storage tray that the C12 lacks as well as an adjustable rotary edge guide that will help you align your pages.
Price and warranty: Both of these devices are available for less than $115.00 so they're great for people who are on a budget. The Star has the better warranty it offers two years of coverage. The GBC device comes with only one year of protection.
With the exception of the punching and binding capacities, the GBC CombBind C12 and Fellowes Star are actually pretty similar. They both look modern, are pretty compact, have D-shaped handles and comb selectors, and they're reasonably priced. As for which one is right for you, it depends on what you want. The GBC device is great for beginners (thanks to the on-board instructions) as well as people seeking higher punching and binding capacities. On the other hand, the Fellowes machine would be good if you want something with an adjustable rotary edge guide and a two-year warranty. Both of these products are high-quality and come from respected manufacturers, so no matter which one you choose, you'll be getting a terrific binding machine. Choose yours today.
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