Key Takeaways
- The 3M 90 is a permanent glue suitable for heavy-duty work.
- The 3M 77 is also permanent but suitable for light-duty work.
- 3M 90 dries and cures faster than the 77 and is more expensive.
Choosing between 3M spray adhesive 90 and 77 can be very challenging, as both are tough and reliable for various types of projects.
However, the best way to determine them is to compare their compatibility and performance. In today’s article, I share what I learned by testing these adhesives.
So feel free to give it a go.
Read More: 3M Headliner Adhesive vs. Super 77
About 3M Spray Adhesive 90 and 77
The 3M 90 and 77 are industrial-grade adhesives and work best in all weather conditions.
However, I noticed that 3M 90 offers a strong bond for heavy-duty projects, while 3M 77 is more suitable for light-duty projects.
Since these are spray adhesives, I could apply them quickly and more precisely to various materials.
But both offered different bonding and curing times. The price varies, too, making it a little tough to decide which one to use.
3M Spray Adhesive 90 vs. 77
If you look forward to a more detailed discussion of adhesives, read the following part.
Adhesive Type
The 3M 90 and 77 are aerosol adhesives. They come in cans with attached spray nozzles for application.
These are transparent adhesives and really suitable to use on products without damaging their appearance.

Spray Pattern
The 3M 90 adhesive comes with a lace spray pattern. It is reliable for making even coatings and creating strong bonds between different types of materials.
On the other hand, the 3M 77 comes with a mist pattern. This type of pattern is excellent if you want to apply the glue in thin layers and with more precision.
But that shouldn’t be a huge problem because the nozzle applicators will help you spray the adhesive without overdoing it.
Compatibility
The 3M 90 adhesive is suitable for heavy-duty work that requires something stronger to create a permanent bonding.
You can use it on a lot of materials, such as floor covering, wood panels, headliners, metal, plastic, concrete, etc. But you can also apply it on lightweight items, such as rubber, foam, fabric, paper, etc.
Unfortunately, the 3M 77 is a little less versatile than the 3M 90. You can only apply it for lightweight projects, such as fabric, foam, paper, rubber, wood, leather, etc.
Drying Time
If you are applying the 3M 90, you better be quick! It is a fast-drying adhesive that usually starts drying after 10-15 seconds.
But depending on the temperature, it can take a few minutes to dry completely.
However, the 3M 77 dries comparatively slowly. It can take 30 seconds to several minutes to dry completely.
Read More: 3M 90 vs. Gorilla Spray Adhesive
Cure Time
The 3M 90 takes 10-15 minutes to cure at room temperature. And the 3M 77 was cured within 30 minutes.
But just to be safe, I would advise leaving them for 12 to 24 hours for a better result.
Adjustability
If you want to bond two or more materials quickly, the 3M 77 would be a fine choice, as it takes time to dry.
The more layers you apply, the longer it will take, but it will give you enough time to make adjustments.
But I can’t say that you will have that luxury with 3M 90. As it dries quickly, you won’t get much time to adjust.
Cost
Even if the 3M 90 is a super strong adhesive, its high cost can be a drawback for many users.
The 3M 77, on the other hand, comes at a more reasonable price.

Safety
3M claims that the 77 adhesive contains low VOCs. Despite that, it emits chemicals, and I suggest wearing safety masks when using it.
The same goes for 3M 90 because it contains a strong chemical formula.
I must also add that both adhesives are flammable, and you must avoid flames when spraying them.
Users’ Reviews
I checked user ratings on various platforms before buying the adhesives.
And it turns out that the 3M 90 has better user ratings and positive reviews than the 3M 77.
However, the rating can vary from platform to platform.
Is 3M 90 Spray Adhesive Stronger Than 77?
With its high-grade formula, the 3M works more effectively than the 77 and can resist higher and lower temperatures.
And this glue is more durable than the latter, which makes it stronger.
The 3M 77 is a medium-strength adhesive and is more suitable for projects that require something lighter.
Which One Is More Popular?
If comparing the 3M spray adhesive 90 vs. 77 wasn’t enough, knowing which one is more popular can help you to make the final decision.
The 3M 77 is more affordable and is more popular, especially among people who use it for crafts and light-duty projects.
The 3M 90 is popular among users who need something more robust and strong that cures faster. They don’t mind paying some extra bucks for it.