Manual

• The manual upholstery stapler is operated with your own strength, and is an affordable option for those who are on a limited budget or just trying out upholstering their own furniture. This stapler is the least expensive type of upholstery stapler available, but the repetitive motion can become tedious after several staplings.
  
  

Electric

• Electric staplers are compact and have more power than a manual stapler. They plug into a standard outlet and take a moderate amount of strength to use. Electric staplers are more expensive than manual staplers but cost much less than air staplers, and are a good option for those who upholster furniture on a semi-regular basis.
  
  

Air

• An air stapler is a power tool that requires a separate compressor tank and little to no strength to use. These staplers, due to their cost and upkeep requirements, are most appropriate for those who regularly upholster furniture.