Glock 26 vs Glock 43 – Which Small 9mm Should You Carry?

Comparing Glock 26 vs Glock 43 is one of the most common questions for buyers who want a small 9mm. Both are short pistols built for concealed carry, but they take very different approaches.

In simple terms, the Glock 26 is a double-stack subcompact with more capacity, while the Glock 43 is a thinner single-stack Slimline pistol that is lighter to carry.

If you are also choosing carry ammo, see our FMJ vs Hollow Point 9mm guide or browse more side-by-side pages in our comparison hub.

Quick Verdict

For most carry buyers:

• Glock 26 is the better choice if capacity and magazine flexibility matter most
• Glock 43 is the better choice if a thin, light pistol matters most

Winner for most users: Glock 26 — 10 rounds as standard, a slightly shorter grip than the 43, and it can use Glock 19 and 17 magazines as backups.

Glock 26 vs Glock 43 Comparison Table

Glock 26 Overview

The Glock 26 is GLOCK’s double-stack subcompact 9mm. GLOCK calls the G26 V a popular option for concealed carry, with a 3.43-inch barrel and a 10-round standard magazine.

Because it uses a double-stack magazine, the 26 can also accept longer Glock 9mm magazines, which GLOCK lists as optional capacities.

Glock 43 Overview

The Glock 43 is GLOCK’s single-stack Slimline 9mm. GLOCK describes it as ultra-concealable, with a built-in beavertail and a 6-round standard magazine.

Its thin frame is the main appeal. For pocket-style or very light clothing carry, the 43’s narrow profile is hard to beat.

Size and Concealability

Based on GLOCK’s published specs, these two pistols are almost the same length and height. The G26 is actually about 0.08 inch shorter in height, while the 43 is about 0.16 inch shorter in overall length.

The real difference is width and weight. The 43 is about 0.24 inch thinner and about 3.7 ounces lighter, which is easy to feel on your belt over a full day.

Capacity and Magazines

The Glock 26 holds 10 rounds as standard, and the Glock 43 holds 6. GLOCK lists 15-, 17-, and longer magazines as optional capacities for the G26 V, so Glock 19 and 17 magazines can serve as backups.

The Glock 43 uses its own single-stack magazine, so buy magazines listed for that exact model. Browse options like the ETS Glock 26 magazine or the ETS Glock 43 magazine. Magazine capacity limits vary by state — always check our ammo and magazine laws guide.

Range Use and Shootability

Both pistols have nearly identical barrel lengths. Many shooters find the wider G26 grip and its extra weight a little easier to control, while the 43 is easier to carry.

Both grips are short, so some shooters with larger hands may prefer a magazine extension or a larger model.

Pros and Cons

Who Should Choose What?

Choose the Glock 26 if you want the most capacity in a small Glock and like being able to use Glock 19 and 17 magazines.

Choose the Glock 43 if a thin, light pistol is your top priority and you are comfortable with lower capacity.

Final Verdict

The Glock 26 and Glock 43 are almost the same height and length. The choice really comes down to width, weight, and capacity.

For most buyers, the Glock 26 is the better all-around pick. If you want the thinnest, lightest option, the Glock 43 is a great choice.

Continue your research with our Best 9mm Ammo guide, our 115 vs 124 Grain 9mm comparison, and our comparison hub.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Glock 43 smaller than the Glock 26?

It is thinner and lighter, but not shorter. The 26 is actually about 0.08 inch shorter in height.

Do Glock 26 magazines fit the Glock 43?

No. The 26 uses double-stack magazines and the 43 uses single-stack magazines, so they are not interchangeable.

Which is better for concealed carry, the Glock 26 or 43?

The 43 is easier to carry because it is thinner and lighter. The 26 gives you more capacity.

Once you have picked your pistol, see the 1791 Kydex IWB for Glock 43, browse our Glock holsters, or stock up in our 9mm ammo category. Buying online? See our how to buy guns online guide.