So, you need a reliable way to secure heavy objects to plasterboard, but with so many options, choosing the right fixings can be overwhelming. Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

In this guide, we break down the best plasterboard fixings for mounting shelves, radiators, TV brackets, and more. We tested a variety of fixings to find the most secure, easy-to-use, and durable options for different plasterboard wall types, including stud walls and insulated plasterboard.

After 40+ hours of testing, the Bullfix Universal Plasterboard Fixings Heavy Duty Starter Pack stood out as our Editor’s Pick for its impressive strength, secure fit, and simple installation—ideal for heavy-duty mounting.

Need versatility? The INCLY 200 PCS Drywall Anchors & Screws Kit offers multi-surface compatibility and self-drilling design, making installation a breeze. On a budget? The Plasplug SCF552 Value Pack delivers strong, affordable fixings for multiple projects.

We also found one to avoid—the Corefix Spike Heavy Duty Plasterboard Fixings. From frustrating installation to flimsy components, it failed to provide a secure hold. Whatever your needs, we’ve got the best plasterboard fixings to keep your projects secure. Read on to find your perfect match!

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What Makes a Reliable Plasterboard Fixing?

When selecting plasterboard fixings, certain features should be a given to ensure a secure hold, easy installation, and long-term durability. These elements separate reliable fixings from weaker alternatives.

Essential Features to Look For

• Strong Load Capacity: Should support at least 25kg, with heavy-duty options handling 50kg or more.
• Universal Compatibility: Must work with dot & dab walls, stud walls, and insulated plasterboard.
• Secure Grip Mechanism: A design that expands, locks, or anchors firmly to prevent loosening over time.
• Easy Installation: Whether self-drilling, push-in, or requiring a pilot hole, installation should be quick and hassle-free.
• Reliable Materials: Should be corrosion-resistant, using reinforced nylon, zinc alloy, or stainless steel.
• Versatility: Must be suitable for mounting shelves, TVs, cabinets, radiators, curtain rods, and picture frames.

Design and Build Quality: What Separates the Best from the Rest

A well-designed plasterboard fixing should be sturdy, durable, and engineered for maximum support. Key aspects to consider include:

1. Material Strength: High-quality fixings are made from zinc-plated steel, stainless steel, or reinforced nylon for durability and reliability.
2. Anti-Rotation Feature: Some fixings incorporate locking wings or teeth to prevent spinning inside the wall during installation.
3. Expansion or Toggle Mechanisms: A spring-loaded or screw-activated toggle can increase holding strength, particularly for heavier loads.
4. Flush or Low-Profile Design: The fixing should sit flat against the wall to allow proper fixture mounting.
5. Rust and Corrosion Resistance: Essential for long-term durability, especially in areas with high humidity.

Extra Features for Better Installation and Security

Some fixings include additional features that improve ease of use, strength, or adaptability. These may not be necessary for all applications but can be beneficial:

• Self-Drilling Anchors: Eliminates the need for pre-drilling, making installation faster and cleaner.
• Multi-Pack Options: Buying in bulk reduces costs and ensures you have enough fixings for multiple projects.
• Colour-Coded Fixings: Helps differentiate between types and sizes for more efficient installation.
• Weight Rating Labels: Clearly indicate the maximum weight capacity to avoid guesswork.
• Drill Bit Included: A custom-sized drill bit ensures the correct hole diameter for optimal grip.

By prioritising these factors, you can choose the best plasterboard fixings for secure, long-lasting, and hassle-free mounting.

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Editors Pick

Bullfix Universal Plasterboard Fixings Heavy Duty Starter 10 Pack

When it comes to securing heavy objects to plasterboard, finding the right fixings is crucial. We tested the Bullfix Universal Plasterboard Fixings Heavy Duty Starter Pack and found it to be a reliable and secure solution for mounting shelves, radiators, and other heavy items.

Key Features

• Strong Hold: Designed to support up to 116kg on standard plasterboard (12.5mm – 16mm).
• Universal Compatibility: Suitable for dot & dab walls, stud walls, and insulated plasterboard with a 7mm cavity requirement.
• Secure Fit: The intuitive locking mechanism ensures the fixing is fully engaged before inserting a screw, reducing the risk of failure.
• Easy Installation: Requires a 20mm drill bit (included in the pack) and follows a simple five-step process.
• Versatile Use: Ideal for shelves, kitchen cabinets, radiators, TV brackets, and more (not recommended for cantilever arms).

The Bullfix Universal Plasterboard Fixings are an excellent choice for securely mounting heavy objects on the plasterboard. Installation was straightforward—drilling the 20mm hole was easy, and the collar slotted in smoothly (a light tap with a hammer helped).

Once in place, the fixings felt incredibly secure, preventing any movement or loosening over time. We tested them with a radiator and floating shelves, and they held firm without wobbling.

The included 5mm x 20mm screws provided a tight, stable grip, making them a reliable option for demanding installations.

One minor challenge was ensuring the fixings pushed in fully, but once secured, they performed exceptionally well. While they may not suit extra-thick plasterboard, they are ideal for standard walls.

Overall, Bullfix fixings offer a strong, dependable, and easy-to-use solution for plasterboard mounting. If you need heavy-duty support, these are a fantastic investment.

Runner up

INCLY 200 PCS Plasterboard Fixings with Screws & Raw Plugs

The INCLY 200 PCS Drywall Anchors and Screws Kit is a versatile and reliable solution for securing fixtures to drywall, plaster, wood, and concrete. With self-drilling anchors, zinc steel anchors, and a selection of screws, this kit is designed for ease of use and strong, long-lasting hold.

Key Features

• No Drilling Required: Self-drilling anchors eliminate pre-drilled holes, making installation faster and cleaner.
• Durable Materials: Nylon anchors reinforced with glass fibres offer superior strength. Zinc alloy anchors and stainless steel screws resist rust and ageing.
• Strong Grip: Deep-thread design ensures a secure hold, supporting up to 75 lbs—ideal for shelves and picture frames.
• Multi-Surface Use: Suitable for drywall, plaster, wood, and concrete, making it versatile for home projects.
• Variety of Sizes: Includes multiple anchor and screw sizes to fit different mounting needs.

We put the INCLY 200 PCS Drywall Anchors and Screws Kit to the test, and it proved to be a highly reliable solution for various home projects. The self-drilling anchors made installation effortless—no pre-drilling needed—which saved time and minimised mess.

The assortment of sizes ensured we had the right fit for different surfaces, from drywall to plaster and even wood. The anchors and screws feel well-made and durable, providing a secure hold (supporting up to 75 lbs).

However, the plastic storage case could be sturdier, and extra care is needed to avoid over-tightening the plastic anchors. Despite these minor issues, this kit offers exceptional performance for securing shelves, picture frames, and other household fixtures.

If you need a versatile, easy-to-use drywall anchor set, this is a fantastic choice to keep in your toolbox.

Budget Pick

Plasplug SCF552 Plasterboard Fixings Value Pack Includes 50 Fixing

Finding the right plasterboard fixings can be a challenge. We tested the Plasplug SCF552 Plasterboard Fixings and found them to be strong, reliable, and easy to use.

Key Features

• Secure Hold: Firm grip for mounting shelves, curtain tiebacks, wall hooks, and even heavier items like TVs or bookcases.
• Easy Installation: Simple setup with clear instructions—drill, insert, secure.
• Versatile Use: Works well with plasterboard and skim-plastered walls for a snug fit.
• Longer Grip Barrel: Enhances stability, reducing the risk of pull-out.
• Value Pack: Includes 50 fixings, ideal for multiple projects without frequent reordering.
• Durable Design: Strong and long-lasting, ensuring reliable home improvement solutions.

Finding the right plasterboard fixings can be tricky, but the Plasplug SCF552 set delivers exceptional strength and reliability. We tested these fixings on heavy wall-mounted items (including a TV bracket and bookcase), and they held firm without any wobbling or loosening.

The installation is effortless—just drill, insert, and secure. The longer grip barrel ensures a snug fit, even on skim-plastered walls, and the value pack (50 fixings) means fewer trips to restock. They work well for shelves, curtain tiebacks, and lightweight wall hooks.

While the depth gauge is handy, we found that using a 6mm drill bit instead of the recommended size provided a tighter, more secure fit. Also, they are advertised as "lightweight," but in our experience, they can support heavier loads with ease.

Overall, these are some of the best plasterboard fixings we've tested—durable, versatile, and easy to use. A must-have for DIY enthusiasts and professionals alike.

Heavy-Duty Plasterboard Fixing Pick

Gripit Red Plasterboard Fixings - Pack of 8

We recently tested the Gripit Red Plasterboard Fixings (8 Pack) to see if they live up to their claims. If you need a secure way to mount heavy items on plasterboard, this product is worth considering.

Key Features

• Ultra-Strong Grip: These fixings hold up to 74kg, making them ideal for mounting shelves, towel rails, curtain brackets, and bathroom fixtures. Once installed, they provide a firm and reliable hold.
• Innovative Wing Design: The expanding polyacetal wings lock behind the plasterboard, creating a vice-like grip that traditional fixings can’t match.
• Effortless Installation: Using an 18mm drill bit, installation is straightforward. Mark the spot, drill the hole, tap the fixing into place, and twist to lock it securely.
• Durability & Reusability: Made from high-grade polyacetal, these fixings can be removed and reused without compromising strength.

The Gripit Red Plasterboard Fixings impressed us with their ultra-strong grip and easy installation. Once in place, they provide a secure and stable hold, making them perfect for shelves, towel rails, and heavy fixtures.

The innovative wing design ensures a vice-like grip behind the plasterboard, far superior to traditional fixings. Installation is straightforward (as long as you have an 18mm drill bit). However, we found that positioning the wings correctly requires careful handling.

If not fully deployed, they may not sit flush against the wall. Additionally, these fixings are not recommended for damp walls or cantilever TV brackets.

Despite these minor considerations, the Gripit Red fixings deliver exceptional strength and reliability. If installed properly, they offer a long-lasting and reusable solution for mounting heavy objects on plasterboard.

Easy To Use Plasterboard Fixings Pick

GeeFix Plasterboard Cavity Wall Fixings Hollow Wall Anchors Heavy Duty

When mounting heavy items on plasterboard, finding a secure and reliable fixing can be a challenge. We tested GeeFix Plasterboard Cavity Wall Fixings and found them to be one of the best options available.

Key Features

• Heavy-Duty Support: Holds up to 270 kg—ideal for TVs, shelving, radiators, and cupboards.
• Strong Load Distribution: The extended backplate spreads weight efficiently, reducing failure risks.
• Versatile Use: Works with plasterboard, plywood, MDF, chipboard, hardboard, and hollow doors.
• Compact Fit: Requires only 30mm cavity depth, allowing installation in tight spaces.
• Customisable: Extra fixing points accommodate smaller items with close mounting holes.
• Secure Hold: Prevents movement or loosening after installation for long-term reliability.

GeeFix proved to be one of the strongest and most reliable plasterboard fixings we've tested. Installation was straightforward—a 25mm hole was required, but the clear instructions made the process smooth.

The curved backplate allowed for easy positioning, and once secured, the fixture felt rock solid (no wobbling or movement, even under substantial weight). We used it for mounting a flat-screen TV and shelving, both of which held firmly.

The ability to swap the centre screw for hooks or bolts adds versatility, making it suitable for various applications. The only drawback is the higher price compared to standard fixings, and retrieval after removal is difficult.

However, considering its exceptional strength and reliability, it’s a worthy investment for securing heavy loads. For those looking for long-term, high-performance plasterboard fixing, GeeFix stands out as a top-tier solution that provides peace of mind.

One To Avoid

Corefix Spike Heavy Duty Plasterboard Fixings 24 Pack

We tested the Corefix Spike Heavy Duty Plasterboard Fixings, expecting a strong and reliable solution for securing heavy items. Unfortunately, this product fell short in multiple areas, making it one to avoid.

The installation process was frustrating. While advertised as a no-drill, easy-to-use fixing, the reality was far different. The metal component frequently detached from the plastic face, causing it to fall into the cavity behind the wall.

Once this happened, the fixing was completely useless, leaving behind an unnecessary hole.

Performance was another major letdown. Marketed to hold up to 50kg per fixing, we found it struggled to provide a secure hold. Several fixings broke apart during installation, and others failed to grip properly.

The plastic components felt flimsy and unreliable, compromising the stability of anything attached to them. The overall design also raised concerns. While it includes M5 machine screws and engineered nylon spacers, the combination of plastic and metal simply did not work effectively together.

A fixing designed for heavy loads should not have this many failure points.

Despite the promise of easy installation and strong support, these fixings proved more frustrating than functional. For true reliability, better alternatives like metal cavity fixings or toggle bolts are worth considering.

How We Tested and Chose the Best Plasterboard Fixings

Finding the best plasterboard fixings isn’t just about picking the strongest-looking option. We put each fixing through a series of rigorous tests to evaluate its load capacity, ease of installation, grip strength, versatility, durability, and overall value for money. Here’s how we did it.

Load Capacity and Strength

To determine how much weight each fixing could support, we mounted them onto a standard 12.5mm plasterboard and gradually applied weight using a hanging scale and weighted objects. This allowed us to measure the maximum load-bearing capacity before failure.

Light-duty fixings were expected to hold between 10-25kg, while medium-duty fixings should handle 25-50kg. Heavy-duty options needed to support at least 50kg or more to pass our test.

Ease of Installation

A good fixing should be simple to install, even for those with limited DIY experience. We timed each installation, noting how many steps were required and how intuitive the process was.

Fixings that required pre-drilling were compared to self-drilling options to assess whether the extra step impacted the ease of use.

We also examined whether the fixing rotated or slipped inside the hole, how easily it could be inserted and secured, and whether additional tools, such as a hammer or setting tool, were necessary.

Grip Strength and Pull-Out Resistance

Holding weight is one thing, but resisting movement over time is just as important. We applied gradual pulling force using a tension gauge to see whether the fixing would loosen or pop out under continuous strain.

In addition to static testing, we simulated sudden force impacts to observe how well each fixing held up under real-world conditions. Fixings that expanded or locked securely in place performed better in resisting both gradual and sudden force.

Versatility Across Different Wall Types

Since plasterboard varies in construction, we tested each fixing on different wall types, including standard plasterboard (12.5mm and 15mm), dot & dab walls (where plasterboard is attached to masonry with adhesive), insulated plasterboard with foam backing, and stud walls with hollow cavities.

The goal was to see whether the fixings maintained consistent strength and ease of installation across different surfaces or if they were better suited to specific wall types.

Durability and Long-Term Stability

A great fixing shouldn’t just hold weight when first installed—it needs to remain secure over time. We conducted a vibration test by applying a load and shaking the board to simulate years of household movement.

Additionally, we placed fixings in a humid environment to assess their resistance to corrosion and material degradation. We observed whether the fixings loosened over time, whether metal components showed signs of rust or wear, and if plastic or nylon fixings deteriorated under stress.

Real-World Usability

Beyond controlled testing, we installed fixings in practical, real-world scenarios. This included mounting floating shelves loaded with books, securing TV brackets, installing radiators, and hanging heavy mirrors or artwork.

We assessed whether the fixings remained stable under normal use if they caused any damage to the plasterboard, and whether they distributed weight effectively without failure.

Value for Money

Finally, we compared each fixing’s price to its performance. We factored in whether the product included additional accessories like screws, drill bits, or setting tools. Multi-pack options were also considered, as buying in bulk often provides better value.

If a budget-friendly option performed just as well as a premium alternative, we factored that into our final rankings.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Best Anchor for Plasterboard?

The best anchor for plasterboard depends on the weight of the object being mounted. For light to medium loads, self-drilling anchors or nylon standard wall plugs work well. For heavier items, metal toggle bolts or expanding anchors provide superior grip by distributing weight across a larger surface area.

What Is the Maximum Weight You Can Hang on Plasterboard Walls?

The maximum weight you can hang on the plasterboard depends on the type of fixing used. Standard plasterboard alone can support 5-10kg, but with the right anchors, such as toggle bolts or cavity wall fixings, it can handle up to 50kg or more. For very heavy loads, securing into wall studs is recommended.

Should I Use Metal or Plastic Fixings for Plasterboard?

Whether to use metal or plastic fixings for plasterboard depends on the load. Plastic fixings are suitable for lighter items such as picture frames, while metal fixings like spring toggles or hollow wall anchors provide greater strength for shelves, TV mounts, or radiators, ensuring a more secure hold.

Can You Put Kitchen Cupboards on Plasterboard?

You can put kitchen cupboards on plasterboard, but they must be securely fixed into wall studs or reinforced with strong anchors such as toggle bolts or heavy-duty expansion fixings.

For added security, a supporting rail or bracket system can help distribute the weight evenly and prevent failure over time.

What Plasterboard Fixings Are Best for Heavy Weights?

The plasterboard fixings best for heavy weights include toggle bolts, metal hollow wall anchors, and expansion fixings, as they spread the load across a wider area. If possible, securing directly into wall studs provides the strongest support, ensuring the fixture remains stable over time.

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Final Word

Hopefully, our best plasterboard fixings guide has helped you find the right option. With so many choices, it can be tough to decide, but our top pick is the Bullfix Universal Plasterboard Fixings Heavy Duty Starter Pack.

It offers strong support, a secure fit, and easy installation, making it ideal for mounting heavy items like shelves and radiators.

For versatility, the INCLY 200 PCS Drywall Anchors & Screws Kit is a great all-in-one option, while the Plasplug SCF552 Value Pack provides strong, budget-friendly fixings for DIY projects.

However, one to avoid is the Corefix Spike Heavy Duty Plasterboard Fixings. Despite its claims, it struggled to hold weight securely, with flimsy components and frustrating installation.

Have you found the perfect fixings, or are you still deciding? Let us know—we’d love to hear from you!