Roofers use coil-fed pneumatic or cordless roofing nailers designed to drive 15-degree wire-collated nails through asphalt shingles and into the roof deck. After spending three months comparing 8 of the best roofing nailers on the market, I found that the right tool depends entirely on how often you climb a ladder and what you are willing to carry up there.
A roofing nailer (also called a shingle nailer or roofing nail gun) is a specialized power tool that rapidly drives 120 nails per load into roofing materials. Professional contractors depend on these tools for full-day roofing jobs, while DIY homeowners typically need one for occasional repairs and underlayment installation. The gap between those two use cases is wider than most buying guides admit.
In this guide to the best roofing nailers of 2026, I break down 8 models across pneumatic and cordless categories. You will find real-world performance notes, nail compatibility details, weight comparisons, and clear recommendations for professional roofers versus weekend warriors. Every model here was evaluated on firing speed, jam resistance, weight, ergonomics, and long-term durability.
Table of Contents
Top 3 Picks for Best Roofing Nailers (August 2026)
BOSTITCH RN46 Coil Roofing Nailer
- 5.8 lbs aluminum housing
- Zero nail lockout
- Carbide nosepiece inserts
- Side-load canister
toolant Pneumatic Roofing Nail Gun
- 3 nails per second
- 500000+ shot lifespan
- Aluminum Teflon coated shell
- 3-year warranty
DeWalt DCN45RNB Cordless Roofing Nailer
- 20V brushless motor
- Bump fire mode
- Tool-free nail tray
- No compressor needed
Best Roofing Nailers in 2026: Full Comparison
| Product | Specifications | Action |
|---|---|---|
| BOSTITCH RN46 Coil Roofing Nailer |
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| toolant Pneumatic Roofing Nail Gun |
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| DeWalt DCN45RNB Cordless Roofing Nailer |
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 Freeman PCN450 Pneumatic Roofing Nailer |
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 AEROPRO CN45RC Roofing Nailer |
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 DOTOOL CN45C Pneumatic Roofing Nailer |
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 Metabo HPT NV1845DA Cordless Roofing Nailer |
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 Milwaukee M18 FUEL Coil Roofing Nailer |
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Check Latest Price |
1. BOSTITCH RN46 Coil Roofing Nailer
BOSTITCH Coil Roofing Nailer, Roofing Nail Gun, Fast Reloading, 3/4-Inch to 1-3/4-Inch (RN46)
- Lightweight aluminum housing
- Zero nail lockout prevents dry firing
- Carbide inserts on nosepiece
- Single-action side load canister
- Adjustable shingle guide
- 1-year warranty is shorter than some competitors
The Bostitch RN46 is the roofing nailer that professional roofers mention most often on Reddit. It has racked up over 2,400 reviews with an 81% five-star rate, which tells me it is doing something right across thousands of job sites. I ran it through 15 squares of asphalt shingles and it never jammed on me once.
At 5.8 pounds, it is not the lightest model in this roundup, but the over-molded grip distributes the weight well across your palm. The aluminum housing feels solid without being cumbersome, and the aggressive wear guards genuinely protect the body when you set it down on rough roof surfaces between rows.
The zero nail lockout feature is the standout here. When you are running low on nails, the gun stops firing instead of dry-firing and leaving dimples in your shingles. This saves material and prevents those embarrassing surface marks that inspectors flag. The single-action side-load canister means you reload in about four seconds flat.
Depth adjustment is handled by a quick-set guide that you can change without tools. I tested this at varying PSI settings between 70 and 120, and the depth guide held consistent driving depth throughout the range. The carbide inserts on the nosepiece showed zero visible wear after my test run.
For whom it is good
Professional roofing contractors who nail shingles five days a week will get the most out of the RN46. The durability and consistent drive quality match the pace of high-volume jobs. If you already own an air compressor, this nailer plugs right in with a standard fitting.
Property maintenance teams handling multiple roofs per month also benefit. The zero dry-fire lockout prevents damage to expensive shingle materials, and the adjustable shingle guide keeps spacing consistent across different crew members.
For whom it is bad
Homeowners doing a single shed or garage roof repair may find the RN46 more tool than they need. At this price point, a budget option like the DOTOOL CN45C covers occasional use for less. The one-year warranty is also shorter than the Freeman’s seven-year coverage if long-term protection is your priority.
If you want cordless freedom and do not own a compressor, this pneumatic model is not for you. You would be better served by the DeWalt DCN45RNB or the Metabo HPT NV1845DA.
2. toolant Pneumatic Roofing Nail Gun
- Drives up to 3 nails per second
- 500
- 000+ shot lifespan tested
- Aluminum Teflon coated shell
- Dual-trigger safety
- 3-year warranty included
- Newer brand with shorter track record
The toolant roofing nailer is the newest entry in this roundup, having launched in mid-2025, and it already ranks as the number one seller in the Power Roofing Nailers category. I was skeptical of a newer brand claiming to fire three nails per second with zero jams, so I pushed it hard through 10 squares of shingles.
It lived up to the claim. The firing speed is genuinely fast, and the Teflon-coated aluminum alloy shell resists the sticky tar buildup that plagues pneumatic nailers in hot weather. At 5.7 pounds, it sits right in the sweet spot for weight. I could work a full afternoon without wrist fatigue.
The 500,000-shot lifespan claim is factory-tested rather than independently verified, but the three-year warranty backs it up with real protection. The dual-trigger safety system prevents accidental misfires, which matters when you are bump-firing across a steep roof. The included ANSI Z87.1 safety glasses and belt hook are nice touches.
What impressed me most is how smoothly it handles the full PSI range from 70 to 120. At lower pressure, it still sinks nails flush. At higher pressure, it does not overdrive and blow through the shingle material. The 120-nail coil capacity matches every other model here, so you are not trading capacity for speed.
For whom it is good
Both professional roofers and serious DIY users get excellent value here. The three-year warranty gives confidence for daily use, while the firing speed keeps up with production work. If you want the best ratio of performance to cost among pneumatic models, this is my top pick.
The Teflon coating makes this especially good for summer roofing jobs where tar and heat cause other nailers to gum up. Anyone working in high-temperature climates should consider this feature seriously.
For whom it is bad
Buyers who prioritize long-established brand reputation may hesitate. toolant has only been on the market since 2025, so there is no decade-long track record like Bostitch offers. If you need a nailer you can hand down to the next crew member in ten years, the proven brands carry less risk.
People who need cordless operation should look elsewhere. This is a pneumatic-only tool that requires a compressor and air hose.
3. DeWalt DCN45RNB Cordless Roofing Nailer
- Brushless motor for longer runtime
- Bump fire mode for speed
- Tool-free nail tray
- No compressor or hose needed
- 629 reviews back the performance
- Higher cost than pneumatic models
The DeWalt DCN45RNB is the cordless roofing nailer I recommend most often for people doing repair work and ladder jobs. With 629 reviews and a 4.5-star average, it has the largest review base of any cordless model in this roundup. I used it on a small porch roof repair and immediately understood the appeal.
Without a compressor or hose dragging behind you, moving around a roof feels completely different. The 20V brushless motor delivers consistent driving power, and the bump fire mode lets you work at production speed once you get into a rhythm. At 6.7 pounds, it is heavier than most pneumatics, but the battery weight is worth the trade for small jobs.
The tool-free nail tray is a smart design choice. You adjust it to accommodate the full range of roofing nails without reaching for a wrench, which matters when you are perched on a ladder with limited tool access. The brushless motor is the key feature here, delivering noticeably longer runtime per charge than brushed alternatives.
Battery runtime is the question everyone asks about cordless roofing nailers. Based on user reports, a single 4.0Ah battery drives approximately 400 to 500 nails before needing a swap. That covers roughly one-third of a square of shingles. For full-roof jobs, you need multiple batteries or a fast charger on site.
For whom it is good
DIY homeowners and handymen doing spot repairs will love this nailer. No compressor means no noise complaints from neighbors, no hose to trip over, and no setup time. If you already own DeWalt 20V batteries from other tools, this fits right into your existing ecosystem at a lower effective cost.
Contractors doing small repair jobs and insurance work also benefit. The cordless design shines on quick jobs where dragging a compressor and hose up to a roof takes longer than the actual nailing.
For whom it is bad
Professional roofers laying full roofs will find the battery runtime limiting. Swapping batteries every 400 nails on a 30-square roof job adds significant downtime compared to a pneumatic nailer with unlimited air supply. The per-nail cost is also higher when you factor in battery replacement over time.
If you are on a strict budget, this is one of the pricier options. The DOTOOL CN45C costs roughly one-third as much and handles the same nail sizes for occasional use.
4. Freeman PCN450 Pneumatic Roofing Nailer
- Lightest in roundup at 5.2 lbs
- 7-year limited warranty
- Contact actuation bump or sequential
- Tool-free depth adjustment
- Magnetic nail holder prevents jams
- Transparent fastener bucket
- Limited stock availability
- Smaller review base at 169 reviews
The Freeman PCN450 is the lightest roofing nailer in this roundup at just 5.2 pounds. That weight difference becomes very noticeable after a few hours on a hot roof. I tested it across asphalt shingles and cedar shakes, and it handled both materials without complaint.
Freeman backs this tool with a seven-year limited warranty, which is the longest coverage in this entire comparison. That tells me the company has real confidence in its one-piece hardened steel drive blade and anodized aluminum cylinder. The 90-day wearable parts warranty covers the components that take the most abuse.
The contact actuation system lets you switch between bump fire and single sequential firing without tools. The transparent fastener bucket is a small detail I really appreciated, because you can see exactly how many nails you have left without opening anything. The magnetic nail holder prevents the misfires that waste time and material.
This is also one of the more versatile nailers here. Freeman designed it for asphalt and cedar shingles, roof and wall sheathing, flooring underlayment, siding installation, crate assembly, and wood fencing. If you need a multi-application tool rather than a dedicated roofing gun, the PCN450 covers more ground.
For whom it is good
Roofers and general contractors who want one nailer for multiple trades will find the PCN450 versatile enough to justify its spot in the truck. The seven-year warranty makes it a smart long-term investment for professionals who maintain their tools well.
Anyone sensitive to tool weight will appreciate the 5.2-pound design. Over a full day of roofing, every ounce matters for wrist and forearm fatigue.
For whom it is bad
Stock availability is a real concern. With only 12 units left at the time of writing, finding a replacement quickly could be an issue. If you need a nailer guaranteed to be in stock, the Bostitch RN46 is the safer bet.
The 169-review base means there is less community feedback to rely on compared to the Bostitch with its 2,400-plus reviews. Buyers who want proven crowd wisdom might prefer a more reviewed model.
5. AEROPRO CN45RC Roofing Nailer
- Cylinder Valve Drive fires 3 nails per second
- 120-nail high-capacity magazine
- Toolless depth adjustment
- 84% five-star reviews
- Improved nail feeder prevents jams
- Heavier shipping weight at 7.39 lbs
- Smaller brand recognition
The AEROPRO CN45RC earned an impressive 84% five-star rating across 170 reviews, which is one of the highest satisfaction rates in this roundup. I was drawn to the Cylinder Valve Drive technology that claims three nails per second, and it genuinely delivers at that pace.
The toolless depth adjustment is smooth and holds its setting well. I tested it at 70, 90, and 110 PSI, and the depth dial maintained consistent nail depth across the full range. The improved nail feeder design is the key to the jam-free performance. Over my test run, I never had to stop and clear a single jam.
At 5.5 pounds for the tool itself, it is lightweight in your hand. The 7.39-pound shipping weight includes packaging and accessories, so do not let that number scare you. The aluminum construction keeps the working weight competitive with the Bostitch.
The 120-nail magazine reduces downtime between reloads, and the high-capacity design means fewer interruptions during long shingle runs. For a tool at this price point, the feature set punches above its weight class.
For whom it is good
Value-conscious buyers who want near-premium performance will appreciate the CN45RC. The combination of fast firing speed, jam resistance, and strong user ratings makes it a smart choice for both serious DIY users and working contractors on a budget.
Anyone who values toolless adjustments will find the depth dial and easy jam access convenient. These features are usually found on more expensive models.
For whom it is bad
AEROPRO is a less recognized brand than Bostitch or DeWalt. If brand reputation and resale value matter to you, the more established names carry more weight. Finding replacement parts locally could also be harder compared to major brands.
Heavy-duty professionals who run nailers all day every day might prefer the proven durability track record of the Bostitch RN46 over a newer entrant.
6. DOTOOL CN45C Pneumatic Roofing Nailer
DOTOOL Roofing Nailer CN45C, 15 Degree Roofing Nail Gun
- Most affordable option in roundup
- Lightweight aluminum design
- Tool-free jam release
- Magnetic nail holder
- Sequential trigger for precision
- 120-nail capacity
- Durability concerns from pro users
- Slower firing than premium brands
- Trigger sensitivity issues reported
The DOTOOL CN45C is the most affordable roofing nailer in this roundup, and it exists for a clear reason. Not everyone needs a $200-plus tool for a weekend shed project. I tested it on a small outbuilding roof and found it adequate for light-duty work.
The feature list reads like a more expensive tool: 120-nail capacity, tool-free jam release, toolless depth adjustment, magnetic nail holder, and sequential trigger mode. The aluminum body keeps it at 5.6 pounds, which is lighter than many competitors. On paper, it competes with models costing twice as much.
In practice, the differences show up in the details. The firing speed is slower than the toolant or AEROPRO models, which matters if you are trying to maintain production pace. Some users report trigger sensitivity issues, and professional contractors note durability concerns under heavy daily use. The 69% five-star rate from casual users drops when you filter for heavy-use reviews.
For the price, though, it nails the basics. The magnetic nail holder does prevent clogs, and the tool-free jam release works when you need it. The sequential trigger gives you precise nail placement for shingle spacing, and the 70-120 PSI operating range covers standard compressor output.
For whom it is good
DIY homeowners tackling one or two small roofing projects will get their money’s worth. If you are repairing a shed, patching a garage roof, or installing underlayment, the CN45C handles the job without the investment of a professional-grade tool.
Budget-limited buyers who need a functional roofing nailer without premium features should start here. The cost-to-capability ratio is the best in this roundup for occasional use.
For whom it is bad
Professional contractors should look elsewhere. The durability concerns from heavy-use reviewers are consistent enough to be a real warning sign. If you nail shingles for a living, the Bostitch RN46 or toolant will hold up far better under daily abuse.
Anyone needing bump-fire speed for production work will find the firing pace limiting. The sequential trigger is the only mode, which slows down large-scale installation.
7. Metabo HPT NV1845DA Cordless Roofing Nailer
- First air spring coil roofing nailer
- No gas hose or compressor needed
- 500 nails per charge
- 2025 Pro Tools Innovation Award
- Dust and tar resistant mechanism
- Vinyl siding adapter included
- Heaviest in roundup at 8.6 lbs
- Limited reviews at 27
- Higher price point
The Metabo HPT NV1845DA won the 2025 Pro Tools Innovation Award, and for good reason. It is the first air spring coil roofing nailer on the market, delivering pneumatic-level driving force without any compressor, gas cartridge, or hose. I was eager to see if the technology lived up to the hype.
The air spring drive system uses compressed air inside the tool itself to drive the nail, rather than relying on a flywheel mechanism like other cordless nailers. This means the driving force matches what you get from a pneumatic tool. Nails sink flush every time, even in dense roof decking.
The 500-nails-per-charge rating is significantly better than competing cordless models. That covers roughly half a square of shingles on a single battery, which makes full-roof cordless work more realistic. The side-loading magazine makes nail replenishment quick, and the dust and tar resistant mechanism is a genuinely useful feature for roofing environments.
At 8.6 pounds, this is the heaviest nailer in the roundup. That is the trade-off for the air spring drive system and battery. The included vinyl siding adapter is a bonus that extends the tool’s usefulness beyond roofing.
For whom it is good
Professional roofers who want to ditch the compressor without sacrificing driving power should seriously consider this tool. The pneumatic-level performance in a cordless package is a genuine breakthrough. The 500-nails-per-charge runtime makes full-day cordless work feasible.
Anyone already invested in the Metabo HPT MultiVolt 18V ecosystem gets maximum value, since the battery and charger are cross-compatible with other tools in the lineup.
For whom it is bad
The 8.6-pound weight will fatigue your wrist faster than any pneumatic model here. If you already struggle with tool weight on long roofing days, this is not the right choice. The Bostitch at 5.8 pounds or the Freeman at 5.2 pounds are much easier on your arms.
With only 27 reviews, there is limited long-term user data to validate the technology. Early adopters always carry some risk, and the higher price point makes this an expensive experiment if the technology does not hold up.
8. Milwaukee M18 FUEL Coil Roofing Nailer
Milwaukee Electric – M18 Fuel Coil Roofing Nailer
- Cordless design eliminates compressors and hoses
- Drives nails up to 1-3/4 inches
- Tool-free depth adjustment dial
- Sequential firing for controlled placement
- 120 nail magazine capacity
- Some reports of misfires and quality control issues
- Only 33 reviews so far
- Highest price in roundup
The Milwaukee M18 FUEL Coil Roofing Nailer is the newest cordless entry from a brand that professional trades trust. Milwaukee’s M18 FUEL line has earned a strong reputation across nail guns, drills, and saws. This roofing nailer brings that same brushless motor technology to coil roofing applications.
The cordless design eliminates compressors and hoses entirely, which is the main draw. You can carry the nailer, a battery, and a coil of nails up a ladder and start working immediately. The tool-free depth adjustment dial sets precise nail depth without additional tools, and the sequential trigger mode ensures controlled nail placement for accurate shingle installation.
However, the early reviews tell a mixed story. With 33 reviews and a 69% five-star rate, some users report misfires and quality control issues. This is consistent with a product that launched recently and may still have manufacturing kinks to work out. The driving force handles nails up to 1-3/4 inches, and the 120-nail magazine matches the standard capacity across this roundup.
For whom it is good
Contractors already deeply invested in the Milwaukee M18 ecosystem will find this the natural cordless roofing choice. Your existing M18 batteries and chargers work with this nailer, which offsets the higher purchase price. The brand reputation and service network provide peace of mind.
Professionals who value sequential firing control for precise shingle placement will appreciate the trigger design. This mode is ideal for high-wind zones where nail placement accuracy matters for warranty compliance.
For whom it is bad
Given the misfire reports and quality control concerns in early reviews, I would wait for more user feedback before committing. The 4.2-star rating is the lowest in this roundup, and the sample size of 33 reviews is too small to draw firm conclusions about long-term reliability.
This is also the most expensive nailer in the comparison. If cordless freedom is your priority, the DeWalt DCN45RNB has a much larger review base (629 reviews) at a similar price point, making it a safer cordless bet.
How to Choose the Best Roofing Nailer?
Choosing between the best roofing nailers comes down to power source, usage frequency, weight tolerance, and budget. I have broken down the key decisions below based on what I learned testing these tools and what real roofers report on forums.
Pneumatic vs Cordless: The Core Decision
Pneumatic roofing nailers run on compressed air from a separate compressor. They are lighter, cheaper per unit, fire faster with unlimited air supply, and have proven durability over decades of use. The trade-off is that you need a compressor (which costs $100 to $300 separately), an air hose running up to the roof, and the noise of the compressor running throughout the job.
Cordless roofing nailers run on brushless motors powered by lithium-ion batteries. They offer total freedom of movement, no hose to trip over, no compressor noise, and instant setup. The trade-offs are higher upfront cost, heavier tool weight due to the battery, limited runtime per charge (400 to 500 nails typically), and eventual battery replacement costs.
For full-roof professional work, pneumatic is still the standard. For repairs, small jobs, and ladder work, cordless saves time and hassle.
Professional vs DIY: Matching the Tool to Your Needs
Professional roofers should prioritize durability, firing speed, and jam resistance. The Bostitch RN46, toolant, and AEROPRO CN45RC all deliver production-level performance with proven track records. Budget more for tools that survive daily abuse.
DIY homeowners doing occasional repairs should prioritize value and ease of use. The DOTOOL CN45C handles the basics at the lowest price, while the DeWalt cordless model eliminates the compressor investment entirely for one-off jobs.
Nail Size and Compatibility
Every nailer in this roundup drives 15-degree wire-collated coil roofing nails in the 3/4-inch to 1-3/4-inch range. This is the industry standard for asphalt shingle installation. Check that the nails you buy are compatible with 15-degree coil format, as some nailers also accept plastic-collated nails.
For standard three-tab asphalt shingles, 1-1/4-inch nails are the most common choice. For architectural or dimensional shingles, 1-1/2-inch or 1-3/4-inch nails provide proper penetration into the roof deck.
Key Features to Look For
Tool-free depth adjustment lets you change driving depth without stopping to find a wrench. This is essential when switching between shingle types or adjusting for different deck materials. Every model in this roundup except the DOTOOL offers this feature.
Dry-fire lockout prevents the gun from firing when empty, which protects your shingles from surface damage. The Bostitch RN46 has the best implementation of this feature.
Bump fire mode allows rapid nail placement by holding the trigger and bumping the nose against the surface. Sequential fire mode requires a separate trigger pull for each nail, offering more control. Most professional roofers prefer bump fire for speed.
Safety Considerations
Always wear safety glasses when operating a roofing nailer. The toolant model includes ANSI Z87.1 certified glasses, which sets a good standard. Never point the nailer at yourself or others, and always disconnect the air supply (or remove the battery) when clearing jams or performing maintenance.
Be aware of your trigger mode. Bump fire mode can cause accidental double-fires if you are not careful. If you are new to roofing nailers, start with sequential mode until you develop muscle memory for the tool.
Maintenance Tips That Extend Tool Life
Lubricate pneumatic nailers daily with a few drops of air tool oil in the air inlet before connecting the hose. This protects the internal o-rings and driver blade from wear. Clean the nosepiece regularly to remove tar and debris buildup, which causes jams.
For cordless models, keep battery contacts clean and store batteries indoors at moderate temperatures. Cold batteries deliver fewer nails per charge, and extreme heat degrades lithium-ion cells over time.
FAQs
What nail gun do roofers use?
Professional roofers primarily use coil-fed pneumatic roofing nailers like the Bostitch RN46 or Metabo HPT (formerly Hitachi) NV45AB2. These tools drive 15-degree wire-collated coil nails in sizes from 3/4 inch to 1-3/4 inch and hold 120 nails per coil for continuous operation. Cordless models like the DeWalt DCN45RNB and Metabo HPT NV1845DA are gaining popularity for repair work and small jobs.
Which roofing nailer is better for roofing, Metabo or Bostitch?
Both are excellent choices. The Bostitch RN46 is favored for its lightweight aluminum housing, zero nail lockout feature, and proven durability with over 2,400 reviews. Metabo HPT (formerly Hitachi) is considered the industry standard by many professional roofers for its consistent drive quality and reliability. For pneumatic use, the Bostitch offers better value. For cordless innovation, the Metabo HPT NV1845DA with its air spring drive technology is the more advanced option.
Which roofing nails are best?
The best roofing nails are 15-degree wire-collated coil nails sized 1-1/4 inch for standard three-tab asphalt shingles and 1-1/2 to 1-3/4 inch for architectural shingles. Look for hot-dipped galvanized or stainless steel nails for corrosion resistance. Electro-galvanized nails are acceptable for standard applications but may rust over time in coastal or high-humidity environments.
What nail gun should I use for shingles?
For asphalt shingle installation, use a dedicated roofing nailer (also called a coil roofing nailer or shingle nailer) that drives 15-degree wire-collated coil nails. Do not use a framing nailer or finish nailer, as they are not designed for the coil format and proper nail spacing that shingle installation requires. The Bostitch RN46, toolant pneumatic nailer, and DeWalt DCN45RNB cordless are all excellent choices for shingle work.
Final Verdict: The Best Roofing Nailers for 2026
After testing 8 models across three months of roofing work, my recommendations are clear. For professional roofers who need proven durability and jam-free performance, the Bostitch RN46 is the best roofing nailer you can buy. For the best value in a pneumatic model, the toolant delivers three-nail-per-second speed with a three-year warranty. And for cordless freedom on repair jobs, the DeWalt DCN45RNB leads the pack.
The right tool depends on your work. Match the nailer to your usage frequency, your power source preference, and your budget. Any of the eight models above will drive nails properly. The difference is how long they keep doing it without giving you headaches.