Flat-crown staples feature a flat crown (top) and two legs bent downward at 90°. The flat surface area is better suited for fastening applications that require more strength than a standard staple provides and where leveling is a concern, such as grouping thick documents or securing packages.

Round-crown staples have a curved crown (top) which allows them to secure round objects such as wire and tubing to mounting surfaces without damage.

Pointed-crown staples feature a peak or point on their crown that sits just above the top of the legs. This forms an arch that better distributes the force from the staple gun used to install them. Some varieties feature pointed tips that further increase penetration into the mounting surface.

Cable staples are made with additional components that prevent arcs and shorts if they are driven too hard into an electric cable. They consist of a flat staple with a plastic guard on the bottom of the crown or a plastic crown with two nails acting as legs.