Best Drywall Trowels 2026: Four Brands Worth Considering

Introduction

Choosing the right drywall trowel comes down to more than brand loyalty. Small design details like blade width, handle height, and the distance between the blade and the handle can change how a trowel feels and performs all day. This guide breaks down four trowel brands worth considering, what each does well, and where they fall short.

What Makes a Good Drywall Trowel

Several factors separate a great trowel from a frustrating one. Blade width matters because a 5-inch trowel is easier to use in corners without knuckling, and it spills off the edges less than a 4.5-inch version. A wider blade does flex more, which can reduce feathering ability, but the speed and corner control usually make up for it.

Handle height is another key detail. A lower handle gives more control, and most trowels measure around 3.25 inches from blade to handle. Some brands sit higher at 3.5 inches, which can feel less precise. The distance between the blade and the handle, sometimes called the wheelbase, also affects flex. A space around 1.375 to 1.4375 inches provides the right balance of flex and control, while longer spaces can make edges dig in and shorter ones can make the blade too stiff.

Curry Trowels: The Long-Time Favorite

Curry trowels have a strong reputation among plasterers and drywallers. The company was based in Costa Mesa, California, and while it appears to be out of business now, its trowels remain highly regarded. A 5-inch by 12-inch Curry trowel has been a daily driver for nearly eight years, thanks to its proportions and low handle height.

The 12-inch length reduces shoulder fatigue because you are not pushing as much material as you would with a 14-inch trowel. The 5-inch width prevents knuckling in corners and reduces edge spill. Over time, the blade edges round over, which makes the trowel excellent for skim coating. The rounded edge compresses the mud and leaves a flat, smooth finish without dragging. A 14-inch by 5-inch Curry trowel offers a wider spread for first coats on corner beads and flats, though the wider blade does add some fatigue.

Marshalltown Trowels: A Solid Alternative

Marshalltown is a well-known trowel brand, and its trowels offer a good feel, though the handle height tends to sit higher than some competitors. A 13-inch Marshalltown trowel has a longer space between the blade and handle, measuring close to 1.75 inches. This extra flex makes feathering edges harder because the outer edges feel like dead space.

A 12-inch Marshalltown trowel has a similar issue, with edges that dig in when rounding corners or tying in flat joints. Despite these quirks, Marshalltown trowels are still solid choices, especially for skim coating where the extra flex helps compress the mud. Marshalltown also markets a Curry Style line of trowels, though the handles feel too thick for some users and may need to be shaved down for a comfortable grip.

Nela Trowels: Precision Engineering

Nela is a German trowel company known for precise manufacturing. Its trowels feature a low handle that many users find comfortable. The space between the blade and handle measures around 1.125 inches, which is shorter than the ideal range. This shorter space means the blade has less flex, which can make it harder to avoid leaving lines in wide spreads.

Some users also notice a scraping sound when wiping mud off a hawk, though this can be adjusted with practice. Nela trowels are well made and feel good in the hand, but the shorter wheelbase may not suit everyone, especially those who prefer a bit more flex for feathering.

Craft Tool Co Trowels: Built for Wide Spreads

Craft Tool Co makes trowels with a large spine and slightly upturned ends, which help prevent edges from digging in during big spreads. A 19-inch by 5-inch Craft Tool Co trowel is a massive tool that leaves flat joints and works well for skim coating ceilings when paired with a wide roller to prime large areas.

The upturned ends and large spine make this trowel effective for filling corner beads and other narrow areas. It is stiffer than a skimming blade, so it leaves the mud flatter rather than conforming to uneven surfaces. The main downside is its size, which makes it impractical for everyday use and more of a specialty tool for large flat areas.

Buying Advice

When choosing a drywall trowel, focus on the details that affect feel and control. A 5-inch width is easier on corners and reduces edge spill. A shorter length around 12 inches reduces shoulder fatigue while still covering enough area. The space between the blade and handle should sit around 1.375 to 1.4375 inches for the right balance of flex and control.

Stainless steel trowels are worth the extra cost because they do not rust and do not leave brown streaks in the mud. Carbon steel trowels can feel great but require regular maintenance to prevent rust. Handle height is a personal preference, but a lower handle generally provides more control. If a handle feels too thick, it can be shaved down to fit your hand better.

Conclusion

The best drywall trowel depends on your working style and the type of jobs you do most. Curry trowels remain a favorite for their proportions and low handles, while Marshalltown offers a solid alternative with a slightly different feel. Nela brings precision engineering, and Craft Tool Co covers wide spreads and specialty tasks. Pay attention to the wheelbase, handle height, and blade width, and you will find a trowel that feels like an extension of your hand.