Acrylic Plastic Adhesive—Tape with acrylic plastic adhesive is the best at conforming to irregularly shaped surfaces. It’s also the best choice for use around sensitive electronics. Compliant with the NASA-set ASTM E595 standard, it gives off almost no volatile emissions that could damage electronics, even in a high vacuum. It’s made without halogens, so it won’t produce toxic smoke if it catches fire, either. This tape resists solvents, so it won’t come off during cleaning.

Rubber Adhesive—Tape with rubber adhesive makes strong bonds quickly. However, it doesn’t last as long as tape with silicone or acrylic adhesive, especially when exposed to UV light.

Conductive Adhesive—Conductive adhesive makes easy electrical connections—charge travels both along and through the tape. Since it’s more conductive, it’s better at shielding against EMI than tape with electrically insulating adhesive.

Electrically Insulating Adhesive—Tape with electrically insulating adhesive is only conductive on the surface, so electrical charge won’t travel through the tape. Choose it for shielding cables without creating unwanted electrical connections.

Guide Line—Tape with guide line has a ridge in the center and a tapered edge that allows for an even overlap when wrapping.

Acrylic Plastic Adhesive—Use tape with acrylic adhesive where silicone contamination is a concern, such as surfaces to which you’re applying paint or other adhesives.