This category contains over 180 laminators, mainly hot machines for A4 and A3 pouches, along with some cold and combined cold/hot models. They suit offices, schools, workshops and home users who need to protect documents, signs or teaching materials. Leading brands include Fellowes, Olympia, GBC and Leitz.
How to choose a laminator
Format. A4 models outnumber A3 in our range and cover documents, certificates and worksheets. A3 laminators are made for posters, drawings and menus: their maximum lamination width is usually around 33 cm, while A4 machines sit between 22 and 24 cm. A3 machines take up more desk space, but they can normally laminate A4 pouches too.
Type. Hot laminators use heat-activated pouches and give a sealed, long-lasting result, which is why they make up most of our range. Cold laminators work by pressure and suit materials that dislike heat, such as some photographs and prints. A combined cold/hot model lets you use either method if you laminate a mix of materials.
Thickness. The pouch thickness decides how stiff and durable the finished item is: thinner pouches suit everyday sheets, thicker ones suit cards and signs. In our range the maximum document thickness is mostly between 0.4 and 0.6 mm, and some models accept 1 mm or even 2 mm. Always check this value against the pouch you plan to use.
Rollers and speed. Two-roller machines are the most common and are enough for occasional laminating. Models with four or six rollers generally heat and press more evenly, leaving fewer bubbles and cloudy patches, which helps with frequent use and thicker pouches. Speeds run from 230 to 600 mm/min: 250 or 300 mm/min is fine for a few pouches, while larger batches go faster on quicker machines.
Laminator brands we carry
- Fellowes: the largest brand in our range by number of models, known for office equipment including laminators, binding machines and shredders.
- Olympia: a German office equipment brand with a long history in office machines.
- GBC: specialises in laminating and binding equipment and belongs to ACCO Brands.
- Leitz (including Esselte-Leitz): best known for files and office organisation products, with laminators as an addition to that office range.
Also in our range: LMG, Tracer, HP, DOTS and Peach.
Laminator FAQ
What is the difference between a hot and a cold laminator?
A hot laminator seals the pouch with heat, while a cold laminator bonds it using pressure alone. The hot method gives a durable, sealed result and is the most widespread. Cold lamination suits sheets and photographs that are sensitive to heat.
Should I buy an A4 or an A3 laminator?
A4 is enough if you laminate documents, certificates or worksheets. Choose A3 for posters, drawings and larger menus. A3 machines take up more space, but they can normally handle A4 pouches as well.
How many rollers should a laminator have?
Two rollers are enough for occasional use. Four or six rollers generally heat and press more evenly, so they help with frequent use and thicker pouches. Check the exact number in the product description.
Can I use any pouch in any laminator?
No. Hot laminators need heat-activated pouches, while cold laminators need pressure-sensitive pouches or film. The pouch thickness must also stay within the machine's maximum document thickness.
