Comparing the GBC CombBind C20 and Fellowes Pulsar 300 Comb Binding Machines

General Binding Corporation (GBC) makes some of the best plastic comb binding machines available and they recently released a great new product: the CombBind C20. The C20 is getting a lot of attention so we were curious to see how this device compares to a similar device, the Fellowes Pulsar 300. Here’s what we found out so you can decide if one of them is right for you.

Punching and binding capacities: The C20 and Pulsar have very similar punching and binding capacities but the former definitely has the advantage in this category. The GBC machine can punch 20 sheets and bind 320 while the Fellowes device can punch 15 and bind 300. Both of these binders have vertical punching mechanisms to ensure accurate punching.

Ease of use: The C20 is easier to use than the Pulsar because it has all the instructions you need printed right on it. It also has a color-coded comb selector so you can figure out which comb is best for your document. Also, this device has an ergonomically friendly handle that’s perfect for both right- and left-handed users. The Fellowes machine lacks the on-board instructions and while it has a comb selector, it’s not color-coded. Its handle also leaves something to be desired because it’s located on the right side of the device.

Size and appearance: The C20 is slightly larger than the other device because it measures 22” (weight) x 9” (height) x 19” (depth). (The Pulsar’s approximate dimensions are 5” x 18” x 15”.) The GBC device is definitely the more flashy of the two thanks to its black and silver styling that’s accented by bright bursts of color. Meanwhile, the Fellowes device is white and silver and isn’t as eye-catching as the other machine. So if looks matter, the GBC product would be a better choice.

Odds and ends: Neither one of these devices is equipped with disengageable dies nor do they have open throats. The Pulsar has a pull-out tray in which you can store several combs, something the C20 lacks.

Price and warranty: The C20 is a little bit more expensive than the Pulsar. It’s priced at just under $300.00 while the Fellowes machine goes for less than $230.00. Also, it has a two-year warranty while the other product is covered for just one year.

Both the GBC CombBind C12 and Fellowes Pulsar 300 are good comb binding machines that are very similar. However, the GBC machine would be a better choice for several reasons. First, its binding and punching capacities are higher. Second, it has instructions printed right on it so you won’t have to hunt down the owner’s manual when you need help. Third, it’s more visually interesting and has an ergonomically friendly handle. However, you’ll want to consider what the Pulsar 300 has to offer, such as its lower price and longer warranty. But no matter which machine you choose, you can be sure you’re getting a high-quality comb binding machine that can help you finish your documents.

If you’d like to purchase the GBC CombBind C20 or Fellowes Pulsar 300, you should really visit MyBinding.com. They have great prices on both of these products as well as a full selection of Binding Supplies. Plus, you’ll get free shipping on all orders over $75.00. If you’d like to learn more about these types of products, you can read all about them at MyBindingBlog.com. Check it out for yourself now!

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Can I use wire with my comb binding machine?
Krish Technologies posted this on Apr 26, 2016

< Over the years, a number of customers have asked me whether they can use twin loop wire with their plastic comb binding machine. These customers often don’t want to have to buy a brand new machine but like the look and feel of twin loop wire binding. However, the answer to their question isn’t as simple as it seems. You see, they actually do make twin loop wire that is designed to work with the plastic comb binding hole pattern. With that said, if you want to use these wires you are going to need a way to close the wires. What is Spiral-O Wire? Let me explain a little bit more…There is a product that we carry called Spiral-O Wire. This wire has 19 loops and is designed to work with the hole pattern from a plastic comb binding machine. Spiral-O Wire is sometimes called Wire Combs or Ibico Wire and was originally designed for use with some of the older Ibico binding machines. A number of the older Ibico plastic comb binding machines also included a twin loop wire closer on the front of them to allow users to use both plastic combs and wire. This 19 loop wire was designed for this purpose. What Equipment is Needed? As the Ibico brand has been phased out by GBC and all of the older Ibico plastic binding machines have been replaced with new models, they no longer have the twin loop wire closer on the front of them. This presents a problem in trying to use these spiral-o wires since you can’t use the wires without a way to close them. One of the only options left is to purchase a Twin Loop wire closer. However, since twin loop wire closers are not incredibly cheap this option usually only appeals to users who have larger electric plastic comb binding machines. Otherwise, it is often advisable to simply buy a low end 3:1 pitch twin loop wire binding machine (the supplies are cheaper). This being said, if you have one of the older Ibico binding machines that has a wire closer included you are in luck. The Spiral-O binding supplies that we carry will work perfectly with your machine and you will be able to use both plastic combs and wire depending on your needs. These Spiral-O binding supplies are available in Black, Silver, White, Blue and Red and in sizes up to 1″ in diameter. If you aren’t sure what type of wire binding supplies that you need to work with your machine simply give us a call. Our trained sales representatives will be glad to help you find the correct supplies for use with your machine.(Read More)

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