Best 9mm Magazine Speed Loader [Updated]

I’ve been using 9mm magazine speed loaders for years. While most of my friends make fun of me for it, a lot of the reason I’ve invested in so many and tried them over the years is because of my arthritis. Without using these, it starts to rob the joy of shooting and practicing.

But also, using speed loaders is just easier. It speeds up my time to loading at the range as well. But regardless of your reason for looking at speed loaders, I can tell you without a doubt, most 9mm speed loaders are NOT worth the money.

Many are cheap pieces of plastic that don’t last, or are so frustratingly difficult to use that its easier to just manually load. I have wasted so much money of ones I thought would be better, and went right into the junk pile.

So, in this article on my favorite 9mm speed loaders, I’m going to show you which ones I still use and keep, and even mark the ones where I quit on them and absolutely recommend you don’t waste your money.

Also, as a heads up, I just had to update this article after one of my favorites broke…so, my opinion has been adjusted due to time of use.

How I Chose the Best 9mm Magazine Speed Loaders

I’ve been using these things for 15 years. What started out as just for ease, has now become a necessity because of the growing arthritis in my hands. I’ve used the most simple plasticky cheap Chinese knockoffs, to more complicated versions out there. In truth, as you’ll see, you don’t have buy the most complicated or expensive ones out there. But there is a lot of junk. So, I decided the best way is to list them by listing my favorite, and then breaking down other options based on what they are best for, like speed, or cheap, or even a Glock specific version.

5 Best 9mm Speed Loaders from Best to Worst

1. Maglula 9mm UpLULA Universal Pistol Magazine Loader (Editor’s Choice)
2. Caldwell Universal Pistol Loader (Best Premium option)
3. ETS Elite Tactical Systems CAM Universal Speed Loader (Fastest Option)
4. Glock Magazine Speed Loader (Best for Glock)
5. MakerShot Custom Magazine Speed Loader (I Don’t Recommend)

Best 9mm Speed Loaders

Editor’s Choice Maglula Uplula Universal Loader		Positive operation protects fingers Lengthens magazine life Locks closed & minimal design	Buy on Amazon
Best Premium Caldwell Universal Pistol Loader		Versatile with many different calibers Adjustable Side Shims No Movement Tightening Knob Stable with no flexing	Check Best Price
Fastest Option ETS CAM Universal Speed Loader		Loads pistol mags in seconds. Works with 9mm, .40 caliber, double or single stack mags. Picks rounds up from ammo tray.	Check Best Price
Best for Glock Glock Magazine Speed Loader		Loads all calibers single and double stack magazines No inserts, spacers or adjustments	Buy on Amazon

Breakdown on the Different 9mm Magazine Speed Loaders

Okay, so now that you can see my list, let me explain a bit more on why each one is where it is at, and how they compare. This section is really for those of you who need more details Otherwise, you can save yourself some time and just choose #1 above.

Maglula Uplula 9mm Loader Review

I’ll admit, I used to have the Maglula Uplula as my #2 favorite. However, just recently, as I said above, my Caldwell Universal broke. Granted that was after 7 years of using it. But my Maglula is still pumping fine.

So, what do I like about the Maglula? Simple…it’s easy to use and not as complex as some of the options. It’s not as fast as the ETS Elite Cam loader, but is WAY more reliable in loading the 9mm. I barely have to fidget with this thing as I work to load.

It does come with shims to help any magazine size load easily…which is nice. Plus, I bought different ones for .45, and .380 as well and all of those work just as great. Generally, its pretty well priced. I have found it in a couple of stores around 20 to 30 dollars.

Sadly, you can’t buy this on Amazon anymore – boo. But if you do go to Amazon, BEWARE of the cheap knock offs. There are ones that look like the Maglula and are half the price, but I have tried a couple of those and that are all terrible and went right in the trash. One break immediately (and I’m not that strong), and another couldn’t load to save its life.

Oh and one more thing to add, unlike some others I discuss, it does load both single and double stacks.

Truth be told, this UpLula Loader is a favorite and you’ll find it in my range bag, especially after my caldwell broke.

Maglula Loader Pros and Cons

Caldwell Universal Loader Review

As I said above, the Caldwell for over 5 years has been my favorite of them all. It’s easier to load and it was a tad bit more expensive than the Maglula, it was worth the couple of dollars extra to get.

However, my ranking and thoughts on this changed after the Maglula is still pumping and my Caldwell finally broke. Now, maybe I’m being a little hard here considering that it was better for over 5 years. But still I have to be fair about this and having a $30 product last longer should be considered. So, the Caldwell moved down to my #2.

If you do decide to get it I’ll give a fair warning that due to its grip, it does take a bit of getting used to. Also, as a heads up, this is on Amazon. So, if you are one of those who prefers to buy products on Amazon because you have an established about, the go for it.

Caldwell Universal Pros and Cons

ETS Tactical Speed Loader Review

Let me be clear and blunt on this one. The ETS is the faster of them all. I can load like crazy. The problem is, it makes mistakes and I end up having to fidget with it in order to get it to load. This personally frustrates me.

However, I do have to admit, that even with the slip up, I do think that if I wanted the fastest loading, this still beats all of the others above. So, if speed is truly your thing, and maybe you have more patience than me, then sure…go for this one. Otherwise, if you’re looking for ease and reliability then go for the Malula.

ETS Elite Loader Pros and Cons

Glock Magazine Loader Review

I’ll admit, I’m not a Glock guy. So I had to call in my buddy Ryan Cleckner (another writer here on Gun University) to get his perspective on this. He pointed out that I should definitely mention this for those of you who are Glock fans…fair enough.

It works with Glock 9mm, .40, .357, .380, and .45 calibers. However, it’s not compatible with certain Glock products like the G42 single stack and the 10mm magazines.

The Glock Magazine load is simple to ease and very durable. A lot of the same basic mechanics like the Maglula but made especially for Glocks. So, if you are only loading glocks, then you should consider this and you can’t really go wrong.

Glock Loader Pros and Cons

Speed Loaders I Do Not Recommend!

As I’ve said above, there are a LOT of fake knockoff brands that think using 3d printing they can make a plastic replica for cheaper. First off, we’re talking about saving 10ish dollars. Second, everyone of these I’ve tried has absolutely been junk or failed. So, stay away from no-name cheap knock offs…because in the great words of Admiral Ackbar, “It’s a Trap.”

But there is a big name one that I do not recommend:

Makershot Magazine Speed Loader Review

While this one is simple, it’s just not effective. Lots of slip in loading and still doesn’t relieve stress on my hands. Honestly, its just a step up from doing it manually.

It’s a shame because I really wanted to like this one…but nope. And, as you can see from the user score, they too agree with me on this one. It just isn’t that good and very unreliable…and it’s only a little bit cheaper than the better options.

Makershot Loader Pros and Cons

How to work a 9mm Speed Loader?

With so many styles out there, it can be tricky to figure out how each speed loader works. But most follow a similar basic process. Here’s a simple step-by-step:

• Start with an empty magazine.
• Insert the magazine into the loader’s designated slot.
• Place a round into the loading area or gap.
• Press, squeeze, or slide the mechanism to load the round.
• Repeat until the magazine is full.

It may take a little practice, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll never want to go back to loading by hand.

Speed Loader – FAQs

Do speed loaders damage magazines?

Actually, hand-loading is more likely to cause wear over time — especially if you’re forcing rounds in. As long as you’re using the speed loader properly, it shouldn’t damage your magazine.

Is a magazine speed loader worth buying?

Absolutely. If you want to save time — and save your thumbs from soreness or even injury — a good speed loader is worth every penny.

Are mag loaders universal?

No, they’re not. Speed loaders vary by caliber, magazine type, and design. This guide breaks down which ones work best for 9mm, so take a few minutes to find the right fit for your setup.

Can you use loose ammo with a speed loader?

Yes — most speed loaders are designed to work with loose rounds. Just follow the manufacturer’s instructions to keep things safe and smooth.

Do speed loaders work with all magazine brands?

Not always. Some loaders are more forgiving, but others are picky about dimensions or mag design. Always double-check that the loader you’re eyeing is compatible with your specific magazines.

How long does it take to learn how to use a speed loader?

Most speed loaders have a short learning curve — a few tries and you’ll get the hang of it. Once you do, loading becomes faster, easier, and way more consistent.

Can I use a speed loader at the range?

Yes, and many shooters do. Just be mindful of range etiquette — especially if it’s crowded. Speed loaders are quiet and safe, so most ranges won’t have an issue.