best travel mechanics tool set

Professional Tool Reviews for Pros

Best Mechanic Tool Set Reviews 2024

Whether you spend most weekends hovering over an engine or like to have a set of tools on hand to complete routine auto maintenance a few times a year, you’re going to need the best mechanic tool set for the job. While most tool sets include the essentials for working on a vehicle–socket set, bit driver, and hex wrenches–they can range in size from a few dozen pieces up to several hundred. Tool sets can also vary significantly in quality and price depending on your chosen brand. To help you choose the one that’s best for your garage workshop, we’ve assembled some of the top tool sets on the market. 

Our Top Picks

• Best Overall:  DeWalt 247-piece Socket Set DWMT8153 5 Jump to this Set  ↓
• Best Beginner: Craftsman Mechanics Tool Sets CMMT12021 Jump to this Set  ↓
• Best for the Money: Crescent 150-piece Professional Tool Set CTK150 Jump to this Set ↓
• Best Professional: GearWrench 1/4″ and 3/8″ Mechanics Tool Set 80949 Jump to this Set  ↓
• Best Large: Husky 290-piece Mechanics Tool Set H290MTS Jump to this Set  ↓
• Best Small: GearWrench Mechanics SAE/Metric Tool Set 83001D Jump to this Set  ↓
• Best to Keep in Car:  Tools-2-Go 83-piece Set 240119 Jump to this Set  ↓
• Best Socket:  Milwaukee 106-piece Combo Kit Socket Set 48-22-9486 Jump to this Set  ↓

Also In This Article

Best mechanic tool set buying guide.

• Frequently Asked Questions

Related Content

Why you can trust pro tool reviews, how we picked the best mechanic tool sets.

We used a combination of our own experience with mechanic tool sets along with many hours of research, pouring through customer reviews and comparing specs for more than two dozen different kits, to make our selections of the best mechanic tool sets. Our list does not include the premium mechanics tool brands that are sold directly to professional auto shops. Instead, we chose from some of the most well-respected tool brands you can find at retail outlets. Since mechanic tool needs vary from home garage to home garage, we included kits of varying sizes to suit different needs and budgets.

Best Overall Mechanic Tool Set

Dewalt 247-piece socket set dwmt81535.

DeWalt gets so much attention for its line of power tools that we sometimes forget that the yellow and black also makes a lot of quality hand tools, including this large socket set. It’s one of the more comprehensive sets at its price point with 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch drives. Other tools include a bit driver with an impressive collection of Torx, Phillps, and square bits and a full set of box wrenches and hex wrenches. DeWalt has a reputation for build quality and this kit is no exception. Radius corners prevent you from rounding off bolts and nuts, while knurling on the sockets makes it easier to hand-thread fasteners. A locking mechanism on the ratchets that prevents sockets from popping off when you’re applying a lot of force is another nice feature. 

• Includes three ratchet driver sizes
• Set of box wrenches
• Excellent build quality
• Molded case doesn’t hold all tools securely
• Ratchets have bigger swing arc
• Size: 247 pieces
• Weight: 33.1 lbs. 
• Dimensions: 22.3 inches long by 17 inches wide by 5 inches thick
• Case: Molded tray-style case

Price: $189.99

Best Beginner Mechanic Tool Set

Craftsman mechanics tool sets cmmt12021.

If you’re a novice home mechanic looking for a set of tools to get started, there’s no need to spend hundreds on a tool set. This one from Craftsman has all the most common sizes you need. It comes with 3/8-inch and 1/4-inch drives with a nice selection of sockets, adapters, and extenders. The set includes the most commonly used sizes of metric and SAE sockets as well as sets of deep sockets for each, and there’s also a bit driver with assorted bits and sets of hex wrenches. While the Craftsman name may no longer carry the weight it once did, the now Stanley-owned brand still makes high-quality tools and this kit is no exception. The sockets feature radius corners on the sockets, and the ratchets have locking mechanisms that prevent sockets from popping off when under heavy pressure.

• Equipped with two ratchet sizes
• Good build quality 
• Tray style case
• Limited number of socket sizes
• No box end wrenches 

Key Features

• Size: 83 pieces
• Weight: 10.9 lbs. 
• Dimensions: 17 inches long by 15.1 inches wide by 4 inches thick

Price: $94.98

Best Mechanic Tool Set For The Money

Crescent 150-piece 1/4” and 3/8” drive 6-point professional tool set ctk150.

You get a lot of bang for your buck with this Crescent mechanics tool set. It comes with a broad range of socket sizes and a 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch ratchet. Plus, you get box wrenches, needle-nose pliers, wire cutters, an adjustable wrench, driver bits, and hex wrenches. There are also a few nice-to-haves you won’t find in all mechanic’s tool sets, including a set of two screwdrivers. We also like the design of this set. The ratchets have longer handles and the screwdriver and bit driver have large ergonomic grips, both of which allow you to create more torque on stubborn fasteners.  

• Comes with two ratchet sizes with extended handles
• Screwdriver and bit driver feature large grips
• Broad collection of socket and wrench sizes
• 60-tooth count ratchets have larger-than-average swing arc
• Uncomfortable handles on pliers
• Size: 150 pieces
• Weight: 13.2 lbs. 
• Dimensions: 18.5 inches long by 15 inches wide by 3.5 inches thick
• Case: Molded snap-in case

Price: $165.99

Best Professional Mechanic Tool Set

Gearwrench 1/4″ and 3/8″ mechanics tool set 80949.

GearWrench has a reputation for offering some of the highest quality tools you can buy from a retailer. The kit includes two 90-tooth ratchets (most have 72), which have a shorter swing arc that makes it easier to work bolts or nuts in tight confines and off-corner sockets that won’t round off bolt heads. There’s also a set of ratcheting box end wrenches, a bit driver with a nice selection of bits, and a full assortment of specialty sockets for Torx and hex fasteners and spark plugs. Unlike other mechanics sets that have steel handles, the ratchets and bit driver in this one have large rubberized handles that allow you to get a good grip while working tougher bolts. All of these pieces fit nicely into a molded plastic three-drawer storage box. 

• Broad collection of socket and bit types and sizes
• Ratcheting box end wrenches
• Lack some nice-to-have tools, like a set of pliers
• More expensive than sets of similar size
• Size: 232 pieces
• Weight: 36.3 lbs. 
• Dimensions: 13.58 inches wide by 19.09 inches deep by 12.2 inches high
• Case: Plastic storage chest 

Price: $319

Best Large Mechanic Tool Set

Husky 290-piece mechanics tool set h290mts.

Yes, there are far bigger mechanics tool sets out there. However, this is the largest you’ll find that comes with a case that keeps all the pieces organized. This 290-piece collection covers just about everything you’ll need to handle your home garage auto repairs. It includes 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch ratchet sizes, and deep and standard sockets that run from 5/32 to 1-1/16 inch for SAE sizes and 4 to 22 mm for metric sizes. And, it comes with a full set of ratcheting box end wrenches to boot. There are also specialty sockets for Torx bits and spark plugs, two dozen box wrenches, hex keys, a bit driver, and assorted bits. While all the tools fit inside a molded plastic storage bin with slide-out drawers, you’ll need a stout back to carry this set around. 

• Comes with three ratchet sizes
• Includes specialty sockets
• No pliers included
• Heavy and bulky 
• Size: 290 pieces
• Weight: 27.4 lbs. 
• Dimensions: 19.75 inches wide by 13.25 inches deep by 10.25 inches high
• Case: Plastic storage chest

Price: $249

Best Small Mechanic Tool Kit

Gearwrench mechanics sae/metric tool set 83001d.

You’ll find more affordable sets at a similar size as this small mechanics kit from GearWrench, but you won’t find one at this quality. Highlights include an 84-tooth ratchet with a smaller ratcheting arc than most other mechanics tool kits and off-corner loading in the sockets that prevents you from rounding off bolts as you’re applying max pressure. The ratchet also has a low profile head that makes it easier to get onto the bolt head when you’re working in the deeper recesses of a car engine. The kit includes a nicely curated collection of socket sizes and surprisingly comes with three ratchet sizes, something you won’t find in much larger sets. A bit driver with bits, Torx bit sockets, and five box wrenches round out this set. 

• Ratchets have a high tooth count
• Limited socket size options
• Few driver bits included
• Size: 118 pieces
• Weight: 18.7 lbs. 
• Dimensions: 21.2 inches long by 13.5 inches wide by 3.5 inches deep

Price: $129.99

Best Tool Set to Keep in Car

Tools-2-go 83-piece set 240119.

There’s no reason to carry a full-size mechanics tool set on the road with you. This set from Tools-2-Go has the essentials you need to perform roadside repairs. That makes it a great companion to a set of jumper cables and a jack. It comes with the common socket sizes for performing small repairs, such as tightening a loose battery clamp. There are also assorted bit sizes, a bit driver, an adjustable wrench, and a pair of needle nose pliers. Plus, it comes with tools not normally found in a tool kit. These include an LED worklight, a tire air gauge, and zip ties for holding up a loose skid plate. All the tools fit into a soft case that rolls into tight bundles. This won’t take up much space in your trunk. 

• Comes with worklight and air gauge
• Compact and lightweight design
• Essential tools for roadside repairs
• Limited socket sizes
• No ratchet included
• Weight: 3 lbs. 
• Dimensions: 15 inches long by 6 inches wide by 4 inches deep
• Case: Soft roll-up case

Price: $77.95

Best Mechanic Socket Set

Milwaukee 106-piece combo kit socket set 48-22-9486.

Milwaukee may be better known for its cordless power tools, but it also makes some impressive hand tools. As with those aforementioned power tools, this Milwaukee socket set boasts exceptional quality. It comes equipped with two 90-tooth ratchets with compact heads and short swing arcs that make them ideal for working in tight spaces. The sockets are squared off, which prevents them from rolling away while also allowing you to grip them with a wrench for more torque. Large stamped sizes on the sockets make them easy to read, and the sockets sit in separate trays for 1/4- and 3/8-inch sizes, so there’s no need to snap pieces in and out. The trays are also removable so you can set them next to you as you’re working under the car or inside the engine. 

• Size: 106 pieces
• Weight: 15 lbs. 
• Dimensions: N/A

Setting a Realistic Budget

As with most tools, prices can vary significantly for mechanics tool sets. You can spend $100 or $1,000 for a mechanics tool set depending on the brand and number of pieces in the kit. When shopping for a tool set, consider what your budget is for a tool set as well as the number of tools you require to meet your needs. 

Value for the Money

One of the main advantages of purchasing a mechanics tool kit is the value it offers. In most cases, purchasing a kit is far cheaper than purchasing the tools that make up the kit individually. Most kits also come with storage cases or chests that make transporting those tools and keeping them organized far easier than keeping track of individual tools.

Tool Set Size and Variety

Project-specific requirements.

Mechanics tool sets are in a broad range of sizes from as few as 50 pieces up to more than 200. Larger sets tend to include more socket and drive sizes and more additional tools, like bit drivers and bits, hex wrenches, and sets of pliers. While all mechanics tool sets are designed for working on a car, larger sets allow you to take on a broader range of jobs.

Starter Kits vs. Comprehensive Sets

When choosing a size, consider what jobs you plan to complete and how often you plan on using the tool set as well as what tools you already have in your arsenal. If you already have pliers, a bit driver, and assorted bits in your collection, then there’s no need to purchase a kit that includes these tools.  And if you only need a socket set to handle common jobs on your vehicle, go with a set that includes a 3/8-inch drive with socket sizes that range from 1/4 inch to 1 inch and 6 mm to 19 mm. If you plan on taking on more involved projects get a set that also includes 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch drivers and a broader range of sockets. 

Make sure you get a set that covers all your needs. While some metric and SAE socket sizes are very similar, they aren’t identical. Using a socket that’s slightly larger than the actual size of a bolt or nut can cause the socket to round off the fastener’s head, damaging it and making it difficult to remove or tighten. Using the wrong size socket or tool for the job can also damage the socket. 

Quality and Durability

Materials and construction.

Most mechanics tool sets are made from vanadium chrome steel, which is both structurally strong and resistant to corrosion and rust. While most hand tools are made from this, there are other build-quality features to look for. High-quality mechanics tool sets have sockets with radius corners, which have rounded interior corners that prevent the socket from rounding off the edges of nuts and bolts.

If you plan on using your mechanics set with impact drivers, get chrome molybdenum steel, which has more elasticity to prevent the socket from shattering or cracking under the enormous torque of an impact driver. 

Also, consider the tooth count on ratchets. Most sets designed for home mechanics have between 72 and 90-tooth ratchets. A 90-tooth ratchet offers a shorter swing arc, which makes it easier to ratchet bolts or nuts inside a tighter space than those with fewer teeth.  

User Reviews and Ratings

Ratings and reviews abound on the websites for both online retailers and big-box home improvement stores. You can look at aggregated star ratings for most tool kits along with detailed customer feedback from individuals who have purchased and used the site.  

Trusted Brands in the Market

There are dozens of brands to choose from when selecting a mechanics tool kit. While you might be able to get a better deal on an off-brand tool set, it makes better sense to pay a little more for the quality that comes with some of the better-known tool brands. GearWrench makes some of the best quality mechanics tool sets and can even be found in some professional shops. Milwaukee and DeWalt, which have reputations for making power tools, also make excellent mechanics tools. Other quality brands include Husky, Craftsman, and Crescent. 

Warranty and Return Policy

Understanding warranty terms.

While hand tools are less likely to malfunction or fail than power tools, you’ll still want a good warranty to back up your purchase. Warranties vary between limited and full lifetime. Milwaukee, for example, provides a limited lifetime warranty on all of its hand tools, which means it will replace a cracked wrench or socket only in the case of manufacturer defects. 

Dewalt, Husky, and Craftsman warranties, in comparison, are full lifetime. If a ratchet should ever break or a socket ever crack for any reason at all, the company will replace it with no questions asked and no proof of purchase required. Husky even conveniently lets you perform the warranty claim at your local Home Depot. Other brands require you to file a claim online or by calling an 800 number.  

Return Process and Policies

If you purchase a tool and decide you don’t like it for whatever reason, the process for returns usually depends on the policy of the retailer you purchased the tool from. Return policies vary from retailer to retailer. Most tools purchased through Amazon can be returned within 30 days of delivery with some exceptions. You can avoid shipping fees by visiting an Amazon return location near you.

Do make note of the return policy when purchasing your tool set as some items sold on the online retail giant are not returnable. Big box retailers like Lowe’s and Home Depot have more liberal return policies of 90 days, and both will often give you a store credit for items beyond that limit or for which you don’t have a receipt. 

Uses of Mechanic Tool Sets

Automotive repairs.

The average mechanics tool set should allow you to complete most of the auto repair tasks you’ll likely take on in your garage or driveway. They include routine maintenance, like changing the engine and oil filter, replacing a car battery, replacing transmission fluid, changing out an old air filter, replacing belts, fixing a leaky cylinder gasket, or changing spark plugs. Most tool sets can also help you handle slightly more advanced jobs, like changing out brake pads or replacing an alternator. 

Essential Tools for Automotive Work

All mechanic tool sets generally come with a core set of tools that’s common across all of them. These include a 3/8-inch ratchet with a mix of metric and SAE sizes in both standard and deep styles. Smaller kits typically range between 1/4-inch and 1-inch for SAE and 6mm to 19mm for metric. Other tools common across most mechanics kits include a set of box wrenches, bit drivers with assorted bits, and sets of hex wrenches. Larger mechanics kits might have 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch drivers, along with a broader range of larger- and smaller-size sockets. They also have specialty sockets for spark plugs and Torx fasteners. Some larger sets come with sets of slip joint, channel lock, and needle nose pliers. 

DIY Projects Around the House

A mechanics set is useful for a variety of DIY projects. The ratchet and sockets that come with a mechanics tool set are useful for driving in lag bolts in carpentry projects such as building a deck, installing a flat-screen TV mounting kit, or mounting a new toilet to the bathroom floor. A bit driver and set of pliers is useful for a variety of tasks from installing a dimmer switch to repairing a leaky faucet to replacing the battery in a child’s toy. 

Professional Mechanic Work

Specialized tools for pros.

You typically won’t find the top mechanics tool brands at online retailers or local stores. These tools are marketed directly to professional auto shops, where having high-quality tools can be the difference between finishing a flat-rate job in 1.5 hours vs. 2 hours. Of course, this affects the number of jobs a shop completes in a day. A tool in a pro shop also needs to hold up to heavy use with minimal wear and tear, placing even more emphasis on build quality. 

Meeting Industry Standard

While you can find some retail brands in a professional shop, the premium tool brands that are most popular among the pros include Mac Tools, Wright, SK Hand Tools, and Snap-on Tools. These can cost significantly more than kits from brands found in retail stores. While you can certainly outfit your home auto shop with these pro-level tools by purchasing these brands directly from the manufacturer, they’re often overkill for most home garages. In truth, you’re better off going with brands that straddle the line between pro and serious home mechanics, such as Gearwrench and Milwaukee. 

Construction and Carpentry

Tools for construction and carpentry.

Larger construction projects that require you to secure large pieces of dimensional lumber together, as in the case of building a deck, fence, or some other large piece of carpentry, often require the use of load-bearing fasteners, including lag bolts, carriage bolts, and the like. The ratchet and sockets or box wrenches you’ll find in a mechanics tool set are often necessary to drive in and tighten these large fasteners. Other tools commonly found in a mechanics tool set, such as a bit driver and box end wrenches can also be useful in carpentry projects. 

Safety Considerations When Using a Mechanic Tool Set

To avoid injury while using mechanics tools, you should always wear the right gear to protect yourself. This includes goggles or safety glasses, gloves, and clothing that covers your arms and legs. Clothing should not be so loose that it can potentially get caught on machinery as you’re working and gloves should fit snugly around your hands to allow for maximum hand dexterity. Any safety eyewear should provide side protection from projectiles. Depending on the type of tool you’re using, you may also want to wear ear protection.

Personal Protective Equipment (PPE)

PPE includes goggles or safety glasses, gloves, and clothing that covers your arms and legs. When using PPE, make sure you’re using equipment that fits you properly. Clothing should not be so loose that it can potentially get caught on machinery as you’re working. Gloves should fit snugly around your hands to allow for maximum hand dexterity. Any safety eyewear should provide side protection from projectiles. 

Correct Techniques for Tool Use

Using a mechanics tool set properly is key to preventing injuries. When using a ratchet driver, place one hand on the socket to prevent it from popping off as you apply pressure, and use the other hand to move the ratchet handle. Always use the correct size and type of tool for the job. While you may be tempted to get by with an inexact-size socket or different tool, doing so could cause slips that lead to injuries. 

Avoiding Common Handling Mistakes

When using mechanics tools, it’s crucial to use the right tool for the job. While some metric and SAE socket sizes are very similar, they aren’t identical. Using a socket that’s slightly larger than the actual size of a bolt or nut can cause the socket to round off the fastener’s head, damaging it and making it difficult to remove or tighten. Using the wrong size socket or tool for the job can also damage the tool. 

Organizing and Maintaining Workspaces

Whether working in a home garage or pro auto shop, keeping the space well organized and clean is key to preventing accidents. Clean up any spilled oil, transmission fluid, or other liquids right away to prevent slips and keep all tools and supplies organized in proper storage containers. 

Fire Safety and Hazard Prevention

Since auto shops and vehicles themselves are filled with combustible chemicals, never smoke or use open flames in the area, and keep space heaters a good distance away. Keep your work area clean and organized to minimize the risk of fire. It’s also a good idea to have a fire extinguisher on hand in the event there is a fire. 

Emergency Preparedness

First aid kits and emergency plans.

Whether you’re working at home or in a professional environment, you’ll want a first aid kit handy in the event of injuries. The kit should include bandages, antiseptic, burn treatment, eye/skin wash, cold pack, and sterile pads. You can purchase kits of varying sizes from online retailers or your local home improvement store. Make sure the kit is easily accessible, so you can get to it quickly in the event of an emergency. If you’re working alone in a home garage, make sure you have a cell phone on your person or nearby in the event you need to contact help. 

Handling Accidents and Injuries

In the event an accident or injury does occur, seek medical attention. For minor cuts, scrapes or burns, use your first aid kit to treat the wound. For more serious injuries, seek help immediately by calling 911. 

Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanic Tool Sets

What are the must-have tools in a mechanic tool set.

A mechanic tool set should have at least one ratchet driver and a set of common metric and SAE socket sizes. Other must-have tools for a mechanics tool set include a bit driver with assorted bits, hex wrenches, and an adjustable wrench or a set of box end wrenches.

How Do I Choose the Right Tool Set Size?

When considering the size of the tool set you need, you’ll want to take into account how you plan to use it. Basic jobs, such as changing the oil, replacing an old air filter, or replacing a car battery can be performed with just a basic 50-piece mechanics tools set. If you spend most weekends working on your car or work on other people’s cars, then you’ll want a much larger set that has 200 or more pieces. 

Which Brands Are Known for High-Quality Mechanic Tools?

Several brands have a reputation for making high-quality mechanic tools. Professionals use such premium brands as Mac Tools, Snap-on, Wright, and SK Hand Tools. They come with a steep price tag and are generally not sold in retail stores. Good quality mechanics tools are also available to home mechanics through retailers, including Milwaukee, Craftsman, and Dewalt. 

Are Mechanic Tool Sets Suitable for DIY Enthusiasts?

While you won’t find the premium professional tool brands mentioned above in retail stores, you will find plenty of mechanics tool sets from such reputable brands as Husky, Crescent, Dewalt, and Milwaukee. 

What Safety Precautions Should I Take When Using These Tools?

While hand tools don’t present the same safety risks as power tools, you’ll still want to take precautions when using them. Wear mechanics gloves that protect your hands while giving you plenty of dexterity to operate the tools. Also, wear clothing that covers your arms and legs and safety glasses or goggles that provide side protection.

• Best Tool Box Reviews
• Best Screwdriver Sets
• How to Build a Basic Tool Set

Ever check out a “review” site and you can’t tell if the author has any real experience with tools or if they’re just “recommending” the Amazon top sellers? That’s not us. We won’t recommend anything unless we’d use it ourselves. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and our honest opinion of each product.

We’ve been in business since 2008 covering tools, writing reviews, and reporting on industry news in the construction and lawn care industries. Our Pro reviewers work in the trades and have the skills and experience to know whether tools can perform well in the field.

Each year, we bring in and review more than one hundred individual products. Our team will put our hands on hundreds more at media events and trade shows throughout the year.

Pro Tool Reviews consults with innovators in the technology and design of tools to gain a broader grasp of where these products fit and how they work.

We work with more than two dozen professional contractors nationwide who review products for us on real job sites. We consult with them extensively on testing methods, categories, and practical applications.

Our site will provide several hundred pieces of new content this year absolutely free for our readers. That includes objective evaluations of individual tools and products.

The result is information you can trust because of the editorial, scientific, and real-world professional experience we collectively utilize each and every time we pick up and test a tool.

• Tags: mechanics tool set

Tony Carrick

Contributing Writer

Beginning his writing career as a reporter for local newspapers in North Carolina, Tony then spent more than a decade in the classroom teaching English. He now works full-time as a freelance writer from his home in North Carolina. When he’s not typing away on his computer, he can be found hammering away at yet another renovation project in his home.

Related articles

Best Air Compressors for 2024

Nearly every professional contractor uses an air compressor. Of course, it’s not just a construction tool. Automotive, woodworking, aviation, marine, […]

Reekon T1 Tomahawk Digital Tape Measure Review

Confession: I explained in our Best Tape Measure roundup that I don’t use digital tape measures due to their iffy […]

Best Cordless Impact Wrench Reviews of 2024

There’s only one way to know who makes the best cordless impact wrench—get them all in and test them head-to-head. […]

Best Portable Tire Inflator Reviews for 2024

Keeping tires inflated to the correct pressure is important for a vehicle’s safe operation and longevity. Properly inflated tires track […]

Our expert, award-winning staff selects the products we cover and rigorously researches and tests our top picks. If you buy through our links, we may get a commission. Reviews ethics statement

• Car Culture

Best Mechanic's Tool Sets for 2022

Need to get some work done in the garage? Here's a selection of the best tool sets for mechanics that you can buy right now.

A baker couldn't bake a beautiful cake without proper utensils, nor can a photographer take pictures without a trusty camera. Similarly, a mechanic can't fix a car without a proper home tool kit.

The answer to all those questions is obvious, which is why having the right tools on hand is essential to doing the work right. Whether you're a classic car hobbyist, a modern auto enthusiast or a professional mechanic, having the right tools is important to fixing your car. 

Having all the basics in your kit is a good idea, from a few good  wrenches  and  screwdrivers  to at least a handful of ratchets and sockets.

The good news is you don't have to spend a fortune to get a decent quality mechanic tool set -- though you can spend a lot if you want. Plenty of prepackaged mechanic tool sets are available that have just about everything you need to complete a wide variety of automotive tasks. 

And what works well for fixing up your old hooptie is just as helpful  around the house when you need specialty tools to hang a shelf, put together some flat-packed furniture or fiddle with a persnickety power outlet.

Below is a range of the best tools worth your consideration. Some are a great value for the price and perfect for beginners, while others are designed for professionals and best for serious, heavy-duty work. 

All our mechanic's tool set recommendations are based on a combination of real-world experience and user reviews. Keep reading to find the best mechanic tool set to meet your needs. 

DeWalt 108-Piece Mechanic's Tool Kit and Socket Set

Best basic mechanic's tool set.

If you need a decent mechanics tool set but your budget is tighter than a pair of skinny jeans, check out this set of essential tools from DeWalt, which goes for just $71. 

It's not entirely comprehensive, lacking combination wrenches, pliers and a few other things, but it still comes with an impressive 108 pieces. This includes a nice smattering of metric and imperial sockets with corresponding 1/4- and 3/8-inch drive ratchets that feature a 72 tooth ratchet, so they work better in tight spaces. 

DeWalt's kit also includes an array of Allen wrenches, a screwdriver-bit set and even a range of adapters and extension bars. Keeping things nice and tidy, this toolkit comes with a carrying case that latches up nice and tight. But perhaps best of all is the rating; this DeWalt offering has a score of 4.8 stars out of five, with over 11,000 user reviews.

Crescent 170-Piece General Purpose Tool Set

Best mechanic's tool set to keep in your car.

Stepping up the ladder, if you need more than the aforementioned tool kit offers, consider this 170-piece tool set from Crescent. 

With screwdrivers and pliers, hex keys and sockets, ratchets and wrenches, it's surprisingly comprehensive for under $200, which makes it a tremendous value. Being both wide-ranging and reasonably priced, this is the sort of mechanic's tool set you can afford to buy and keep in your car's trunk for emergency situations. 

With metric- and imperial-sized tools, a folding plastic carrying case and a satisfaction guarantee, it's hard to go wrong with these Crescent high-quality tools, something that's backed up by its stellar 4.7-star rating after more than 9,600 customer reviews.

Craftsman 189-Piece Mechanic's Tool Set

Best mechanic's tool set for beginners.

If you're just getting started turning wrenches and you need a decent set of tools for working in the garage or around the house, one that won't cost a fortune, check out this Craftsman tool set. 

It includes a whopping 189 pieces, everything from sockets and ratchets to a range of wrenches and screwdriver attachments. The versatility here is truly impressive and it's from Craftsman, an extremely popular brand name. 

This mechanic's tool set comes in both metric and imperial sizes, and is backed by a lifetime warranty, plus the corrosion-resistant finish is sure to look great for decades to come. 

Whether you need to do a brake job for your friend or repair a leaky faucet, this tool kit can help you get it done. 

For added convenience, a plastic storage tote is included at no extra charge, as is a healthy 4.7-star rating from real users.

Craftsman 450-Piece Mechanic's Tool Set

Best mechanic's tool set for intermediate wrenchers.

This impressive mechanic's tool set, which is also manufactured by Craftsman, is a step above the previous tool kit. 

With 450 pieces and a toolbox to store everything in, it's ideal for intermediate-skill gearhead or auto enthusiast that knows how to get basic automotive repairs done but wants to expand their capabilities. 

For a little over $400 at full price, you get a mess of metric and imperial wrenches. It also contains three different ratchet sizes, a range of Allen keys and a huge array of interchangeable screwdriver tips, meaning it contains the right tool for nearly any job. 

You can get some serious work done with this Craftsman mechanic's tool set. 

And with a 4.6-star rating out of 5 after nearly 1,800 real-world customer reviews, this mechanic's tool set is totally worth your consideration.

Klutch 566-Piece Mechanic's Tool Set

Best moderate-price mechanic's tool set.

Bridging the chasm between attainable tool sets and, let's just say, the more professional-grade options highlighted below, is this $1000 tool set from Klutch. 

To be certain, that's a pretty penny to pay, but the outlay gets you a healthy 566 pieces, practically everything the auto enthusiast or seasoned mechanic needs in the garage to get some serious car work done. 

From sockets to screwdrivers, Allen keys to quick release ratchets, nut drivers to wrenches, this mechanic's tool kit comes with loads of good stuff. Each impressive tool features high-visibility markings, so you never grab a 10-mm wrench when you were reaching for 7/16. 

Also, the ratchets have 72-tooth mechanisms, so they operate with ease in tight quarters. 

Not to mention, various items are made of rugged chrome vanadium steel, so you never have to worry about breaking or bending anything, no matter how strong or abusive you are.

Husky 1,025-Piece Mechanic's Tool Set

Best mechanic's tool set overall.

OK, now we're talkin'! This right here, folks, is a serious professional mechanic's tool set and at its price, it better be. 

A top-quality tool chest, it includes 1,025 pieces and is made by Husky, a well-respected brand. To give you an idea just how comprehensive it is, this mechanic's tool set contains more than 200 wrenches, from run-of-the-mill combination wrench options to stubby models, wrenches with flexible heads to others with built-in ratcheting mechanisms. 

Of course, you also get screwdrivers, Allen keys and a whole mess of sockets, both standard and impact socket variants. This mechanic's tool set has a little bit of everything, and you're sure to find the right tool for any job that comes your way. 

All in, this pantheon of tools weighs more than 255 pounds, enough to fill an entire toolbox and then some.

Gearwrench 613-PIece Master Mechanic's Hand Tool Set

Best mechanic's tool set overall, runner up.

This is another seriously comprehensive mechanic's tool set. Manufactured by Gearwrench, a top-quality brand, this top-of-the-line tool kit includes an impressive 613 pieces, offering a wide array of sockets and bits, pliers and screwdrivers. 

For added versatility, its ever-handy ratcheting wrenches feature 72-tooth drive mechanisms, so they click with only 5-degrees of movement, which means they are the right tool to work in super-tight places. The included quick release ratchet wrenches are treated to a polished chrome finish and have a slim-head design, plus their 84-tooth drive mechanisms mean you can get work done faster, even in incredibly cramped spots. 

Aside from all that, you also get universal extension bar adapters for reaching fasteners in awkward places, a ball-end hex key set, a slew of adapters and much more. 

What does this mechanic's tool set cost? Well, it certainly ain't cheap, stickering for $2,444, but guess what? Quality costs money.

Williams 680-Piece Complete Maxxum Tool Set with Toolboxes

Best mechanic's tool set for professionals.

Welp, I hope you're sitting down, because things are getting serious on our best mechanic's tool set list. 

This over $11,000 tool set right here is a great option for any professional technician or mechanic, as it has nearly everything you could ever need, including screwdrivers, punches, chisels and a broad assortment of ratchets with 1/4-, 3/8-, 1/2- and 3/4-inch drive ends (as well as a plethora of sockets to match). 

You also get a whopping 65 crowfoot wrenches, 19 nut drivers, 10 hammers, two prybars and a tape measure, among many, many other things. To house all these baubles and bobs, this tool kit even includes two toolboxes, each treated to a fetching red paintjob. 

Offered by Williams, a subsidiary of Snap-on -- arguably the best tool brand in the world -- this comprehensive, made-in-the-US 680-piece mechanic's tool kit should be built to last for generations.

Williams 597-Piece Monster Complete Tool Set

Best mechanic's tool set for professionals, runner-up.

One step back from the previous mechanics tool kit is this 597-piece ensemble, also offered by Williams. It still comes with plenty of tools but it's considerably more affordable at just $8,279. 

What does that get you? How about plenty of wrenches and sockets, screwdrivers and punches, pry bars and pliers. 

It also includes Allen keys and hammers, a hacksaw, nut drivers and a lovely toolbox to keep everything in. Like the previous Williams set, this one is made in the US and is backed by a lifetime warranty, so go ahead and pass them down to your children. 

SK 850-Piece Senior Mechanic's Tool Set

Best mechanic's tool set if money is no object.

If you thought the last few tool kits were pricey, well, in the words of Bachman-Turner Overdrive, you ain't seen nothing yet. This top-shelf, professional-grade mechanic's tool set by SK Hand Tools is the granddaddy of them all, the whole megillah, because it checks out for a whopping $14,000 (and that's by far the lowest price we've seen). For that substantial outlay you get 850 different quality tools including 27 screwdrivers; 139 wrenches; 527 sockets and related accessories; 1/4-, 3/8-, 1/2- and 3/4-inch-drive ratchets; plus more pliers, adapters, hammers and punches than can be listed. These SK hand tools feature a durable Superkrome finish for maximum corrosion resistance, come with a lifetime warranty and are made in the good ol' US of A.

Best mechanic's tool sets for 2022

Important things to know about mechanic's tool sets.

• If you're serious about doing your own automotive repairs, having more tools is always a good thing. Purchase the most-complete mechanic's tool set you can reasonably afford, because then you'll be better equipped for whatever job you may want to tackle in the future.
• Any good tool kit will include a range of wrenches and sockets in both metric and imperial. Ideally, look for one with ratchet drive ends in three sizes: 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch. This gives you the flexibility to remove light-duty trim screws, break loose stubborn lug nuts and tackle nearly everything in between. Good tool kits will also include a range of screwdriver sizes and types as well as Allen keys, pliers, hammers and more.
• Some tool sets are ridiculously expensive, costing tens of thousands of dollars, more than many new cars, in fact. These professional-grade sets are undeniably premium and built to last, incorporating top-quality materials, features and finishes. But the reality is you don't have to take out a home-equity loan to get a decent set of tools. Many sets of quality tools are far, far more affordable and will work just as well as those more premium offerings.
• If you can afford to, it's always smart to keep a small mechanic's tool set in the back of your vehicle. Having a smattering of wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers and pliers can be an enormous asset if something goes awry with your ride. Also, having a few basic tools on hand means you'll be able to help out if someone else is having vehicle issues.
• When shopping for a tool set, look for one that includes ratchets that work in tight spaces. Examples with, say, 72-tooth drive units "click" more than older designs meaning the ratchet mechanism will work in cramped spots where you can't swing the handle very far. This can be a godsend when trying to replace a component that's buried deep in an engine compartment or hidden behind other vehicle assemblies.

There are so many great tool sets out there, one for every purse and purpose. 

Choose the right mechanic's tool set for your application

It's not hard to choose a tool set that's right for you. There are plenty of great options available today, one for nearly every purpose and budget. You can get a surprising amount of work done with some of the more basic sets available, but if you're serious about doing more, you might want to consider a kit that includes a few additional tools.

But no matter the mechanic's tool kit you opt for, they should all be built to last. The ones highlighted on this list are offered by reputable manufacturers and are backed up by many positive user reviews. Even the most affordable DeWalt set mentioned above comes with a lifetime warranty. How can you beat that? Grab a new set of tools today and get wrenching!

More car advice

• Best Car Ramps for 2022
• Best OBD2 Scanners for 2022
• Best Creeper Seat for 2022
• Best Floor Jacks for 2022
• How to Buy Your First Car
• How to Dog-Proof Your Vehicle
• Best Headlight Restoration Kits for 2022
• Best Portable Tire Inflators for 2022

• svg]:stroke-accent-900"> 826K
• svg]:stroke-accent-900"> 622K
• svg]:stroke-accent-900"> 246K
• svg]:stroke-accent-900"> 45K

The Best Mechanic Tool Sets Tested in 2023

By Timothy Dale , Tony Carrick

Updated on Apr 26, 2024 2:52 PM EDT

19 minute read

Best Overall

DeWalt DWMT73802 142-Piece Mechanics Tool Set

Best bang for the buck.

Deko 258-Piece Mechanics Tool Kit On Wheels

Upgrade pick.

Craftsman 450-Piece Mechanics Tool Set

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn More ›

A basic tool kit with the DIY essentials —a hammer, screwdriver, and measuring tape—can see you through any number of straightforward household projects. But when you’re undertaking more complex jobs, such as automotive work, you most likely need a solid mechanic tool kit. These sets typically include more than 100 different tools, including wrenches, screwdrivers, sockets, extension bars, and ratchets.

If one tool in a poorly made kit can break easily, then 100 can as well. Investing in the best mechanic tool set with components of high-quality chrome vanadium or stainless steel will save you a lot of frustration. We set out to find the best mechanic tool set by putting several of the top kits through rigorous side-by-side hands-on testing.

• BEST OVERAL L: DeWalt DWMT73802 142-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
• BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK:  Deko 258-Piece Mechanics Tool Kit On Wheels
• UPGRADE PICK:  Craftsman 450-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
• BEST SOCKET: Crescent 180-Piece SAE/Metric Professional Tool Set
• BEST PROFESSIONAL: Gearwrench 232-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
• HEAVY-DUTY STORAGE: Workpro 408-Piece Mechanics Tool Set With Metal Box
• BEST FOR THE CAR:  Stanley STMT75064 229-Piece Mixed Tool Set

How We Tested the Best Mechanic Tool Sets

Selecting the top mechanics set required a significant level of research and testing to learn what tools each kit included, the material used to manufacture the tools, whether the sets came with carrying cases, and how well or how poorly the set was organized.

We tested each set by putting them to work on a pickup truck, focusing on each kit’s set of sockets, ratchets, and combination wrenches, as these are the primary tools for a home mechanic. We put the socket wrenches to work on various bolts inside the engine and under the truck. Through this testing, we were able to determine several things, including how smoothly the ratchets worked, how snugly the sockets and box ends of the combination wrenches fit over bolt heads, and how comfortable each tool felt in our hands. We also considered how easy it was to work bolts in hard-to-reach places with the adapters and extenders included in the kit. Along with performance, we evaluated the portability of each kit by carrying it a short distance and attempting to place it in the bed of our truck.

Our Top Picks

The following mechanic tool sets are high in quality, boast useful features, and have excellent reputations. Any of these tool sets can outfit you for many of the most demanding auto or DIY jobs.

DeWalt’s tools are known for their high quality, so it should come as little surprise that this 142-piece mechanics tool set is perhaps the best all-around option for home mechanics.

The kit comes with two ratchet sizes: ⅜ inch and ¼ inch. Though it may not have the most comprehensive collection of socket sizes, it includes the ones home mechanics are most likely to use. There are Society for Automotive Engineers (SAE) sizes ranging from 5/16 inch up to ⅞ inch and metric sizes that run from 5 to 19 millimeters. There are also deep-socket versions for the most common socket sizes and a nice selection of extenders, adapters, and swivel joints that are useful for working bolts in tight spaces.

One of our favorite parts of this DeWalt kit are its power driver attachments, something we haven’t seen on other mechanics sets. There are three different chuck sizes and a bit holder that allow you to attach the sockets or the screwdriver bits to an impact driver. Rounding out this set are 10 combination wrenches and metric and SAE hex wrenches.

We expect good quality from DeWalt tools, and this set didn’t disappoint. Laser-etched markings on the sides of the 126 individual sockets identify the size and measurement unit of each, making it easy to select the right size. The box ends on the wrenches are precision cut to create a better fit on bolt heads, and the sockets have radius corners for increased torque. The ratchets have 72 teeth for smooth operation and a push-button locking mechanism that keeps them securely attached to the ratchet.

That all translated to excellent performance during our testing. The sockets fit securely on the nuts without slipping and/or popping off the ratchet, even when applying a lot of elbow grease. We experienced very little play between the box ends of the wrenches and the bolt heads we tested them on. The sockets even held up well when we attached them to an impact driver using the included chucks.

All the kit’s pieces fit securely into the molded case. We particularly like the smaller case that holds the driver bits and chucks. The compact size of this kit, compared to other larger ones we tested, made it easier to tote around or even store in a car trunk.

This mechanics tool kit is also surprisingly affordable given that it carries the DeWalt name.

Read our full review: DeWalt DWMT73802 142-Piece Mechanics Tool Set

Product Specs 

• Pieces: 142
• Material: Chrome vanadium steel alloy
• Weight: 20.27 pounds
• Includes 3 different ratchets to cover most needs
• Laser-etched markings for easy identification
• Convenient carrying case; keeps everything organized
• High-quality chrome vanadium steel-alloy construction
• Does not include more common tools, like wrenches

Get the DeWalt mechanic tool set at Amazon  or The Home Depot.

If being a home mechanic is just one of the many odd jobs you find yourself performing, then the Deko 258-piece kit is a great option. This kit includes not only mechanics tools but also other tools for performing a variety of odd jobs around the house.

The tool kit includes a broad range of tools. It comes with a socket set, monkey wrenches, screwdrivers, a hammer, various pairs of pliers, a level, hacksaw, tape measure, wire stripper, and utility knife, all of which fit inside a large rolling suitcaselike carrying case. In short, this tool set can handle a variety of jobs.

While the number of tools in this set is impressive, it’s important to keep in mind that this jack-of-all-trades tool set may not suit serious home mechanics. There are only 27 sockets in this set, which include a mix of SAE and metric sizes, less than half the number found in other tool sets. It comes with ½-inch and ¼-inch ratchets, but it lacks the most common size, a ⅜-inch ratchet.

In terms of quality, there are things we liked and didn’t like about the Deko set. We loved the large handles and rubberized grip on the ratchets, pliers, and hammer. We were able to get a firm, comfortable grip on each.

However, the sockets don’t feel as beefy and the quality of the metal on the hand tools didn’t compare to other sets we tested. The hacksaw, for example, feels particularly flimsy. We also weren’t impressed with the molded case, which doesn’t hold larger tools in their spots during transit. One of the latches on our rolling case arrived badly bent, so we weren’t able to close the case properly.

Given the level of quality and the broad range of tools this kit offers, the Deko mechanics tool kit is a good option for those who do minor work on their car from time to time and also need tools to fulfill other odd jobs around the house. However, serious mechanics should look elsewhere as this kit doesn’t offer the breadth of tools they need.

• Pieces: 258
• Weight: 27.8 pounds
• Fits inside a rolling carrying case that makes it easy to transport
• Includes a broad range of tools to suit various odd jobs
• Large comfortable grips on the hand tools
• Not a broad enough range of tools for serious mechanics
• Not the same quality steel found on other higher-end kits
• Molded case doesn’t hold tools securely

Get the Deko mechanic tool set at Amazon .

There’s little a home mechanic will want for with this 450-piece mechanics set from Craftsman. It includes a wide assortment of sockets, ranging from tiny 5/32 inch to 1 inch for SAE and 4 to 24 millimeter for metric. There are also external sockets for Torx and hex wrenches, spark-plug sockets, a bit driver, a broad assortment of screwdriver bits, and an extensive collection of combination wrenches and Allen wrenches.

Craftsman has a reputation for making quality tools for the home mechanic and DIYer, and that holds true with this kit. The ratchets operate smoothly with their 72-teeth design, and the sockets feel sturdy with radius corners that provide increased torque and prevent them from rounding off bolts. They fit securely over bolts during testing without slipping or pulling off the fasteners. The bit driver has a large rubberized grip that feels comfortable in the hand even when applying a lot of torsional force.

One of the features we like most about this kit is how well it’s organized. All of the ratchets and sockets are divided into three separate drawers based on size: ¼ inch, ⅜ inch, and ½ inch. We found this organizational design makes it easier to find specific socket sizes. We also appreciated the convenience of being able to remove a drawer of sockets and have it next to us while working. Our only gripe is that the plastic drawers don’t open and close as smoothly as cabinet-style tool kits that use metal drawer slides.

However, the drawers fit nicely into a cabinet-style case that is part of the Craftsman Versastack storage system, which means it will stack neatly with other Versastack bins and carrying containers, a big advantage for Craftsman devotees.

With its broad selection of sockets, solid build, and smart organizational design, Craftsman’s 450-piece set is a great option for serious home mechanics.

• Pieces: 450
• Material: Chrome stainless steel
• Weight: 43 pounds
• Outstanding selection of sockets, driver bits, wrenches, and hex keys
• Organizational design of storage box makes finding the right tool easy
• High-quality chrome stainless steel construction and precision-cut tools
• Plastic drawers don’t open as smoothly as cabinets with metal drawer sliders

Get the Craftsman mechanic tool set at Amazon , Walmart , or Sears .

Best Socket

Crescent 180-piece sae/metric professional tool set.

Crescent includes a broad range of sockets with other tools home mechanics will appreciate in an easy-to-transport carrying case, making it a great option for those who spend their weekends working on their car or motorcycle.

Sockets are the bread and butter of any mechanic’s tool set, and this Crescent tool kit offers plenty to choose from. There’s a mix of deep and standard socket sizes ranging from 4 millimeters up to 24 millimeters in metric sizes and 5/32 inch up to 1 inch in SAE sizes. There are also ratchets in ⅛-inch and ¼-inch sizes, plus multiple extension bars and size adapters. Additional tools include various-size combination wrenches, a bit driver with assorted bits, pliers, screwdrivers, hex keys, and, of course, a crescent wrench. This makes for a very comprehensive collection of mechanic tools for the weekend warrior.

Crescent manages to pack all these tools into a case that weighs a very manageable 20 pounds, which means you can have all these tools by your side while you work. While the tools are well organized into the case, we did wish the quality of the molded case was better. Ours arrived somewhat warped on the inside, which made it difficult to snap some of the sockets into their respective pockets.

Case aside, this collection of Crescent tools offers great quality for a home mechanic kit. The sockets have a heavy feel within a radius corner design that prevents them from slipping on bolts or rounding off bolt heads. The 72-tooth ratchets work smoothly and have rounded handles that fit comfortably in the hand even when applying a lot of pressure. Each socket we tested fit nicely over the bolt heads with little play and no slippage even when applying a lot of pressure. We particularly liked the large handles and rubberized grips on the screwdrivers, which allowed us to get a firm grip while wrestling with stubborn bolts.

With its comprehensive collection of mechanic tools and socket sizes, compact size, and manageable weight, the Crescent tool set is a great option for serious home mechanics.

Product Specs

• Pieces: 180
• Weight: 20 pounds
• Includes most of the essential tools for automotive DIY repairs
• Equipped with a broad range of both SAE and metric socket sizes
• Carrying case is quite portable thanks to its manageable size and weight
• Molded case has a warped interior that makes it difficult to snap in tools

Get the Crescent mechanic tool set at  The Home Depot or Acme Tools .

Best Professional

Gearwrench 232-piece mechanics tool set.

Gearwrench has designed this high-quality chrome vanadium steel-alloy mechanics tool set with 232 various pieces, making it ideal for the serious or even pro home mechanic.

This is one of the most comprehensive kits we tested, ranging from 5/32 inch all the way up to ⅞ inch for SAE and 4 millimeters up to 22 millimeters for metric sizes. There are also a variety of socket types, including 6 point, 12 point, and Torx along with external hex wrench and Torx bit sockets. We loved the vast selection of socket types and sizes in this kit, though we did wish there was a swivel joint socket or two in the mix.

In addition to offering a variety of tool types, this set also has pro-level quality. The 90-tooth ratchets allow for a shorter swing arc than the 72-tooth models typically included in home mechanics sets, making it easier to work in tight spaces, and the sockets use thicker metal and have a radius corner design. Gearwrench’s combination wrenches come equipped with its renowned ratcheting box ends, a feature not found on other home mechanic tool kits.

All of this translated into excellent performance. The higher teeth count on the ratchets made them easier to use in tight spaces than the 72-tooth count ratchets we tested. We also loved the ratcheting box ends on the combination wrenches, which puts them well ahead of any other combination wrench we tested in terms of functionality.

The rugged plastic storage cabinet is also a definite highlight. It features three pull-out drawers, a top compartment, and locking side flaps so the tool kit won’t open accidentally. Gearwrench uses a tray to hold the tools versus a snap-in design, which makes it much easier to grab and replace sockets. We also liked the fact that we could remove the trays from the case completely for easier access. The tool box is heavy at 41 pounds, but it’s compact enough to carry short distances or lift into a truck bed or car trunk.

While the Gearwrench tool kit does come with a high price tag, if you find yourself spending a good chunk of your week working on your car, truck, or motorcycle, then the Gearwrench mechanics tool kit is an ideal workmate.

• Pieces: 232
• Weight: 41 pounds
• 3-drawer storage box makes it easy to store and access tools
• Locking side flaps and a hinged lid keep tools securely in place during transit
• Includes a broad range of types and sizes, including SAE, metric, Torx bit, and External Torx sockets
• Comes with a full collection of Gearwrench’s well-regarded ratcheting combination wrenches
• Is heavier than other mechanic tool sets with a total weight of 41 pounds

Get the Gearwrench mechanic tool set at  Amazon or The Home Depot . 

Heavy-Duty Storage

Workpro 408-piece mechanics tool set with metal box.

There’s a lot to like about the collection of tools in the Workpro mechanics set. It comes with 12-point and 6-point sockets for metric sizes that range from 7 to 21 millimeters and SAE sockets that range from 5/32 inch to ⅞ inch. We also like the fact that the set includes three ratchet sizes, extender bars, and spark-plug sockets. Home mechanics will also appreciate the inclusion of Torx bits, hex wrenches, and the broad collection of screwdriver bits and a bit driver. The inclusion of a ball peen hammer, the hammer of choice for mechanics, is also a nice touch.

While we like the selection in this set, there are certainly some misses. Given its size and weight, we wish there were more socket adapters and deep sockets instead of the included tools that mechanics don’t need, such as the precision screwdrivers, zip ties, and drywall screws. We also would have liked to have seen a set of slip-joint pliers as opposed to the linesman and wire cutter pliers included in the set.

While using the Workpro tools, we were impressed with their quality. The large rubberized grips on the hand tools make them comfortable to hold, even when applying a lot of pressure on a stubborn bolt. The 72-teeth ratchets worked smoothly during our testing, as did the double-sided wrenches.

While performance was generally good, we did notice some quality issues during testing. While the sockets fit snugly on the bolt heads, they lack the radius corner design that improves torque and prevents wear. This made them more susceptible to rounding off the bolt heads or slipping while applying a lot of pressure.

The Workpro 408-piece mechanic tool set comes in a heavy aluminum tool box, with the entire set weighing 27 pounds. While it isn’t the best set for mobility, the strength of the aluminum box will keep tools safe and can easily be set up in a garage or workshop for semipermanent storage. The cabinet feels durable and solid with drawers that pull out smoothly. However, the tools sit in thin plastic trays, some of which were already warping under the weight of the tools when we opened up our test set.

Given these attributes, the Workpro kit seems best suited for those who may spend a Saturday working on their car as opposed to someone who spends their evenings in the garage or works on someone else’s vehicles.

• Pieces: 408
• Weight: 27 pounds
• Heavy-duty, high-durability steel storage cabinet is ideal for frequent use
• Includes a broad range of tools that mechanics use in addition to sockets
• Comes with a comprehensive range of socket sizes and 3 ratchet sizes
• Not the same level of build quality as higher-end tool sets
• Lacks some critical mechanics tools, including a set of deep sockets

Get the Workpro mechanic tool set at Amazon or Walmart . 

Best for the Car

Stanley stmt75064 229-piece mixed tool set.

This 229-piece Stanley tool kit includes the staples you need to get off the side of the road, including an extensive collection of sockets, three ratchet sizes, bit sockets, and a bit driver with a broad range of bit types.

During testing, there was a lot to like about the Stanley tool set. The black chrome design gives it a durable feel and handsome look. The Stanley brand claims black chrome provides improved rust resistance over the traditional coloring. We particularly liked the gold etching labels on the sockets that make it easy to find the size you need. The 72-teeth ratchets have a sturdy feel and worked smoothly during our tests with little play between the sockets and bolts. We experienced no slippage during our testing. These tools work well—a must for a car kit.

Unfortunately, we did have some gripes about that black finish. While it’s certainly beautiful, we could already see wear on the edges of the sockets after just a few uses. This made us wonder how long these labels would last before they wore off. We also discovered the hard way that the black finish causes the tools to get quite hot if left out in the sun, a worry for anyone who works in a sunny driveway. The blow-molded case also isn’t the best quality. Some of the sockets resisted staying in their assigned spots during transport.

Despite those gripes, the selection and quality of the tools in this 229-piece tool kit coupled with its compact size make it worthy of a role as an emergency kit or as a home mechanic’s tool kit for weekend warriors. However, it’s probably not high enough quality for a serious home mechanic who spends many evenings working on their car.

• Pieces: 229
• Material: Black chrome steel alloy
• Weight: 23 pounds
• Includes a broad range of standard and metric socket sizes and types
• Good-quality 72-teeth ¼-inch, ⅜-inch, and ½-inch ratchets
• Attractive black chrome finish with easy-to-read etched gold size labels
• Blow-molded case is of poor quality and doesn’t hold all pieces in place
• Black chrome finish wears easily, which could eventually obscure labels

Get the Stanley mechanic tool set at Amazon . 

Jump to Our Top Picks

What to consider when choosing a mechanic tool set.

Mechanic tool sets can come with 300 or more different pieces. If you’re not accustomed to using a tool kit of this size, it’s important to educate yourself on what each set includes and how to use a set effectively. Consider the key product features of the ideal automotive tools below.

Essential Tools 

Before buying a mechanic tool set, make sure that the set has the tools that you use most frequently. Some mechanic tool sets have a wide variety of tools, including hammers, wrenches , ratchets, pliers, screwdrivers, sockets, and more. These variety packs are great for a large number of DIY jobs but lack the needed size selection for sockets and wrenches.

Other mechanic tool sets have only ratchets, sockets, hex keys, bits, and wrenches, but the size selection of those tools is diverse, making such kits great for automotive DIY jobs, like replacing the brake pads on the car. However, these professional mechanic tool sets may lack some of the most basic and essential tools , such as screwdrivers, so consider what tools you need and what you already own before purchasing more.

Number of Parts 

Kits may advertise 400 pieces, but keep in mind that each screwdriver bit, socket, hex key, and utility knife blade counts as a piece, so there aren’t actually 400 individual tools. Plus, don’t just assume that a 400-piece set will have what you need—before buying, check the product’s parts listing, usually found on the manufacturer’s website.

Also, a helpful standard to remember is that the more parts in the set, the higher the price of the set. If you’re only going to use 100 of the 400 pieces, maybe opt for a smaller set of only the must-have mechanic tools.

Accessories and Adapters

Mechanic tool sets can have a large number of accessories and adapters, including screwdriver bits, sockets, universal joint adapters, or breaker bars. The accessories and adapters included with a kit can vary widely and should be itemized on the parts list.

Standard mechanic tool sets will come with basic accessories and adapters, including hex keys, extender bars, sockets, and screwdriver bits. For more specialized adapters, like a breaker bar or a torque wrench , you may need a larger set.

Warranty 

Purchasing a large number of tools at once is an investment, so it’s important to be confident that the tools will work as expected. The best mechanic tools usually come with a warranty in case the product does not end up being as advertised.

Check the manufacturer’s website or the seller’s product information to determine if there is a warranty on the tool set and to find out the details of the warranty.

Storage and Organization

The case that holds the pieces of the tool set should be of the same high quality as the tools inside. It’s not fun paying a premium price for high-end tools in a poor-quality case.

The tools should fit neatly into designated areas within the case, making it easy for you to retrieve a specific tool. The tools should fasten tightly enough within their positions so as not to fall when the case is closed. This includes more difficult-to-store items, like sockets.

Ideally, a storage case will be sturdy enough to withstand impact on a jobsite or in a vehicle without breaking or scattering the parts inside the case. Both metal and durable plastic are good options, with metal being a tougher exterior option and plastic weighing less for easier transportation.

The Advantages of Owning a Mechanic Tool Kit

There are many advantages to owning a mechanic tool set , chief among them being the variety and included organization.

The variety of tools in a standard auto tool kit alone is enough to warrant purchasing a mechanic tool set. A mechanic tool set can include a significant range of options for power, convenience, or access to tight spaces. While some tool sets are costlier than others, a higher price tag may be reasonable when you consider that some sets have more than 300 tools, enough to outfit a user for many common DIY projects. Whether you’re changing an electrical outlet, installing a thermostat, or replacing your brake pads, a large good-quality set will provide you with everything you need without the inconvenience of having to buy each individual tool.

A mechanics tool set almost always comes with a handy carrying and storage case, keeping the tools neat and orderly plus easy to find, transport, and store as a tool collection grows. Don’t worry about losing your tools anymore; just place them back into their designated spot in the carrying case, and they’ll rest safely until you need them again. The case is also handy for transporting the tools from home to the worksite and back, or just carrying them from the shed to wherever you’re working on the house.

Before you’re ready to buy your mechanic tool set, you may have some lingering questions that need to be addressed. See below for helpful responses to the most frequently asked questions.

Q. What tools do mechanics use most often?

The best mechanic tool set will typically include a few essential tools, including a hammer, tape measure, screwdrivers, ratchet and socket sets, as well as a wrench set, pliers, and a pry bar. Mechanics use quality tools both for professional use and to complete their own automotive repairs.

Q. What mechanics tools should you carry in your car?

Unfortunately, cars can break down while you are driving, so it’s a good idea to invest in a small mechanic tool set with some essentials for handling minor problems. Keep screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrenches, and sockets available in this mechanic tool kit, but it’s wise to also pack jumper cables, a jack, a tire iron, a spare tire, and a 12-volt air compressor so that you are well equipped in case of an emergency.

Q. Why does the price of mechanic tool sets vary so much?

The main reason for the price fluctuation between different mechanic tool kits is the number of parts included in the kit, though the brand and the type of tools also factor into the price. If you are looking at a Craftsman tool set with more than 100 pieces, then it’s likely to be more expensive than a DeWalt mechanic tool kit with just 10 pieces, unless the 10 pieces happen to be specialized tools. In which case, the DeWalt mechanics tool kit may be the premium option.

Why Trust Bob Vila

Bob Vila has been America’s Handyman since 1979. As the host of beloved and groundbreaking TV series including “This Old House” and “Bob Vila’s Home Again,” he popularized and became synonymous with “do-it-yourself” home improvement.

Over the course of his decades-long career, Bob Vila has helped millions of people build, renovate, repair, and live better each day—a tradition that continues today with expert yet accessible home advice. The Bob Vila team distills need-to-know information into project tutorials, maintenance guides, tool 101s, and more. These home and garden experts then thoroughly research, vet, and recommend products that support homeowners, renters, DIYers, and professionals in their to-do lists.

Meet the Tester

Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. His articles have been featured on such sites as Angi, Popular Science, Futurism, 360 Reviews by U.S. News & World Report, Domino, and more. Carrick has conducted rigorous product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag.

Additional research provided by Timothy Dale.

Best Mechanic’s Tool Sets: Get Your Wrenching Career Started

Make sure you always have high-quality tools for the job.

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs. Learn more ›

Let's face the facts—if you're working in a professional environment or have plenty of cash at your disposal, you want to go with a top-shelf mechanic’s tool set. But not everyone has the means to invest a small fortune into hand tools for a hobby or something they only do when they need to. Most of us spend our time sorting through the more affordable entrees to figure out what fits our budget, is solid, and doesn’t rob us blind. But for someone starting off, what’s up with those mechanic’s sets everyone's raving about? Or the ones you happen to see in nearly every parts store? We asked ourselves the same questions, which is why we set out to test ten different mechanic’s tool sets from brands we frequently come across. We're here to let you know what our thoughts are so that you can decide which names belong in your collection.

Craftsman 230-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set

• Decent quality 
• Backed by a lifetime warranty 

Expansive coverage of necessary tools

Cannot access entire drawer without removal

Ratchet internals can see improvement

Stanley 69-Piece Black Chrome Set

Competitive pricing

Aesthetically appealing

• High-tooth count
• Quality control issues

Ratchet internals can use improvement

• Finish and laser etching wear away

Gearwrench 68-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set

High-quality construction

High tooth count

• Aesthetically pleasing

Terrible storage case

No seal on ratchet internals

Limited metric spread

Summary List

• Best Overall: Craftsman 230-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set

Best Value: Stanley 69-Piece Black Chrome Set

• Honorable Mention: Gearwrench 68-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set

Best Overall Runner-Up: Tekton 45-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set

Best impact set: neiko 1/2-inch drive master impact set, best for tight spaces: dewalt 131-piece mechanics tool set with toughsystem, our methodology.

We're in the age of information when finding data to back opinions and confirm speculations is easier than ever, but that's not what you'll find here . While we are reviewing key features and characteristics of these mechanic’s tool sets, I base my evaluation on my experience from using them with my 1969 Dodge Charger project car . So, as these tools and parts arrived, I blindly selected them for whatever job was at hand to see if they could get it done, which included the installation of exhaust components, shock absorbers, sway bars, brake pads, and much more. Spoiler alert, all sets pulled through. Still, my hands-on approach did help me to determine what is and isn't to like about each set.

Best Mechanic’s Tool Set: Reviews & Recommendations

Best Overall

Craftsman 232-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set

Decent quality

Backed by a lifetime warranty

I keep this 230-piece mechanic's tool set in the trunk of my 1969 Dodge Charger at all times. Therefore, it belongs at the top of my list. It's a Craftsman tool kit. It's affordable, it's got a killer warranty, and the quality is more than good enough for the average DIYer. The storage case and vast coverage make it perfect for use as my primary tool kit on the road and an excellent starting point for any collection.

The only thing I don't like about it is the fact that it's a pain to access the inner third of the drawers without removing them completely. However, they do function well as tool trays when they're removed. Other than that, the internal design of the ratchets could see improvement, but that's not really a deal breaker for the caliber of use they see in my hands.

High-tooth count is great in tight spaces

Quality control issues may be common

Finish and laser etching wear away easily

As the most recent owner of the Craftsman line, it's likely no surprise to see Stanley Black and Decker following our Craftsman selection. What drives our decision is that it shares a lot in common with the above, including the 72-tooth internals of the ratchets, which are identical and even interchangeable. Though this particular listing isn't attached to the lowest price we’ve seen, the price per piece is excellent. That, paired with an internal design we trust, makes it the obvious choice for this spot. 

This set includes a 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch ratchet, two extensions, a 5/8-inch and 13/16-inch spark plug socket, and a total of 63 metric and SAE shallow and deep well 6-point sockets. We used this set to add an X-pipe to our homemade exhaust system, and though it handled well, we’re somewhat concerned that the internals won’t stand up to severe stresses. We also received a set that had missed any QC measures as sockets were missing and imperfections littered the entire kit. Speaking of imperfections, you should know that the John Player Special color scheme isn't long for this world, as both the black finish and laser-etched stamping wear away quickly.

Honorable mention: Gearwrench 68-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set

Aesthetically pleasing design

In the realm of hand tools for DIYers, Gearwrench sits on the higher end of the scale . Some will argue that it has a place in a professional setting based on the fact that they come with a lifetime warranty, the quality is excellent, and some tool trucks are beginning to pop up in the wild. These are some of the same reasons we feel it's one of the best premium offerings to the average consumer. That, and the attention to detail that goes into these tools. 

While they're another polished set, the inclusion of tasteful engravings to call out the internal tooth count, the direction of the drive, and even to separate metric and SAE sockets help these to stand out. And the 90-tooth mechanism and thick housing help us to fall even more in love with this set. We used this to install a rear sway bar on our project car, and the tooth count does make a difference. However, the horrible case is better left behind if you don't want to rearrange all 68 pieces constantly. We should also point out that it is a little light on metric deep well sockets.

Red handle and case are grease magnets

Impact shank but not impact-rated sockets

No bits for bit driver attachment

To not give this Tekton set our pick for best overall was a hard call to make, as the minute we used these tools, we fell in love with everything this set brought to the table. Let's start with what we found inside, though. The internal mechanism of this set is far more robust than anything on our list and offers a 90-tooth single-pawl mechanism. Despite that, this kit is attached to a relatively low price point and the lifetime warranty, or Always Guarantee, makes it something we think every wrench-turner should give a swing. 

That said, this is a solid selection of shallow 6-point sockets in metric and SAE sizes, a nut driver with a bit-driver attachment, an extension, 1/4-inch impact shank attachment, a 1/4-inch adapter, a 5/8-inch spark plug socket, and a universal joint. Even though it's just 45 pieces, it'll serve you well during virtually any project. As for the drawbacks, there are very few as the red handle and case are grease magnets and the bit driver attachment feels out of place as no driver attachments are included, as does the impact attachment as these aren't impact sockets.

Comprehensive impact socket selection

Ratchet and attachments included

Better construction than most budget impact sets

Massive storage case

Poor warranty coverage

Relatively high price point

Ok, so this award is given out to Neiko’s set with something of a handicap as this is the only impact set that we put to the test. Even so, we firmly feel that this is the way to go if you need to handle the power of impact sockets around the home garage. The main draw to this kit is the piece count. We used this any time our testing required wheels to be removed, harmonic balancers pulled, or anything else that required the use of impact tools and then some. The fact that you get a total of 58 shallow and deep well metric and SAE sockets makes it hard to leave out of the equation whenever you start wrenching. 

It also comes with a 1/2-inch ratchet, three extensions, two drive adapters, and a universal joint, which makes it the only kit you'll need for many situations. The quality is in line with most budget impact sockets, if not better. However, the price of this kit is hard to ignore and we should also point out that there is only a 30-day warranty, and the massive case does make storage hard to sort out.

Covers a wide range of useful fasteners

Includes Stackable Cases

No quick-release button on familiar design

Bits Round Easily

DeWalt's 131-piece mechanic tool set with ToughSystem is the perfect closer to this list. It's packed with unique features that make it a stellar choice for DIYers. Firstly, the narrowed heads on the ratchets help them fit into tighter spaces than other options might. That, plus the inclusion of a range of useful socket sizes for typical applications, really works in its favor. Its ToughSystem cases are another huge reason to consider it. The trays are easy to transport and stack, which positively boosts the working experience.

As for the downsides, the bits included do round easily. It's awesome to include the driver along with sockets and ratchets, but this can be really frustrating in any case. Also, the lack of a quick-release button on the back of the ratchets will turn many users away if they're fans of the older DeWalt ratchet design.

Our Verdict on Mechanic’s Tool Sets 

Since we assume we're talking to folks working in their home garage, it's hard to suggest anything but the Craftsman 230-Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set based on the excellent warranty process and decent quality. The Stanley 69-Piece Black Chrome Set is another solid choice if you want a little more bang for your buck.

You’ve got questions. The Drive has answers!

Q: What should a mechanic’s tool set include? 

A: A mechanic’s tool set should at least include a ratchet, some sockets, and extensions. If you need more to start with, you can buy bigger kits with more ratchets, hand ratchets, an even more comprehensive range of sockets, and additional tools you may need. What's appropriate does depend on the type of work you will perform and what your projects call for. 

Q: What makes a good mechanic’s tool set? 

A: It all depends on your experiences and what you're working on. In any case, a mechanic’s tool set should include tools to deal with any fasteners you'll come across. From there, features such as ratchet design and quality can be taken into consideration.

Q: Are cheap mechanic’s tool sets worth it? 

A: Everyone will tell you to stay away from cheap tools, and for good reasons. However, if you give a master mechanic cheap hand tools to work with, they can still get the job done. Therefore, they are still worth it if that's all you can afford. Quality issues do warrant investing in higher-quality tools when you can afford them, though.

Why Trust Us

Our reviews are driven by a combination of hands-on testing, expert input, “wisdom of the crowd” assessments from actual buyers, and our own expertise. We always aim to offer genuine, accurate guides to help you find the best picks.

Other ‘ Tool Sets ’ Reviews You Might Like:

• Search Please fill out this field.
• Manage Your Subscription
• Give a Gift Subscription
• Newsletters
• Sweepstakes

We independently evaluate all of our recommendations. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

• Travel Products
• Travel Accessories

The 6 Best Multi-tools for Travel, Tested and Reviewed

We put 30 multi-tools to the test to find the best ones you can take on the go.

In This Article

• Our Top Picks
• Others We Liked

Our Testing Process

• Tips For Buying
• Why Trust T+L

Travel + Leisure / Brian Kopinski

Whether you need a pocket knife to whittle sticks on a camping trip, a hex wrench to adjust your seat on a bike trip, or a screwdriver for a quick fix at home, nothing beats having a good multi-tool on hand. We tested 30 multi-tools to search for the best ones to travel with — testing for performance, ease of use, features, value, and durability. We even performed a drop test to make sure there was no damage after the multi-tools fell onto a concrete floor from hip height.

“The type of multi-tool you choose will vary greatly depending on what you need to use it for,” says Kevin Boyle, senior design editor at Wood Magazine , noting there are specialty multi-tools for everything from gardening to camping. But, while multi-tools are indeed multi-talented, they are meant to complement your toolbox, not replace it. “Multi-tools aren’t made to be comparable to regular full-size tools,” Boyle says. “They are best for simple, everyday tasks.”

Out of the 30 multi-tools we tested, our favorites featured a variety of tools in pocket-size formats to take on the go. We found tools that would be best for camping, cycling trips, keychain attachments, and more. No matter where you are traveling, these multi-tools will help you be prepared for anything.

Best Overall

Leatherman wave+.

• Performance 4.8 /5
• Ease of Use 4.3 /5
• Features 5 /5
• Durability 5 /5

It offers an excellent range of tools that are intuitive and effective.

Although it is small in size, it’s too bulky to actually tuck in a pocket.

Leatherman has long been known as a leader in multi-tool manufacturing, and the 18-tool Wave Plus continues this trend. Even with 18 tools, nothing seemed unnecessary or out of place. We found the handles to offer a good grip, and while we wouldn’t exactly call it a comfortable grip, it’s easy to use in one hand. We found the tools and blades are easy to open and use, including the locking mechanisms. We did notice that to access some of the tools you have to open others, which can seem a bit unwieldy at first, but it’s easy to get used to. The tools are mostly intuitive, though we needed help from Google to ensure we were using the bottle opener properly. The pliers were particularly effective, though for some of the other tools, we’d prefer to reach for a full-size, stand-alone tool instead.

While it is indeed pocket-size, we found it too heavy and bulky to keep in a pocket, so it’s better to hang from a belt. It survived our drop test with flying colors, so you can feel confident about carrying it during travel. We thought the quality and performance were well worth the price; in fact, we might consider paying more for such a sturdy and useful multi-tool.

The Details: 1.2 x 0.7 x 4 inches (closed length) | 8.5 ounces | 18 tools

Travel + Leisure / Henry Wortock

Best for Camping

Gerber gear truss.

• Performance 4.9 /5
• Ease of Use 4.8 /5
• Durability 3.5 /5

It’s a compact tool with sharp blades that stow safely.

It doesn’t have a corkscrew.

Packing for a camping trip requires careful strategy, so your multi-tool needs to be as light and compact as possible. Even with an impressive 17 tools to its credit, the pocket-size Gerber Gear Truss more than fits the bill. This multi-tool is built for travel: one of us that participated in testing even keeps one in our car for easy access while on the road. But packability isn’t its only superpower. The tools are the main star, and they are as intuitive as they are effective. The pliers are sturdy and the blades are quite sharp on the saw, knife, wirecutter blade, and scissors, which all stow easily. The “titanium-like” finish made the tools survive our drop test without a scratch, and while the knives did come out a little bit on impact, there was no danger or damage.

Even if you’re just an occasional camper, this is a worthy tool to have on hand. The 17 tools are curated well — including a bottle opener for drinks, though we would love the addition of a corkscrew — and are a great value for the price.

The Details: 1.75 x 0.5 x 4.35 inches (closed length) | 8.4 ounces | 17 tools

Best for Cycling

Topeak mini 18+ multi-tool.

• Performance 4.5 /5
• Ease of Use 5 /5

It’s got everything you need for quick fixes on a bike trip.

Non-cyclists should look to other multi-tools for more features and functions.

A compact yet well-stocked tool bag is a must-have for every cyclist, which is why the right multi-tool comes in clutch for those long rides. With this 20-function multi-tool from Topeak, you need not worry about fixing a flat tire or adjusting your seat and can just focus on the open road. We found that each tool opened and closed easily, though none lock in place. While it doesn’t have blades, scissors, or pliers, it has enough hex wrenches to save a cyclist’s day. There’s also tire level and a chain repair tool so you can keep on riding. It’s compact enough to fit in a front pant pocket, but it’s made to stow in a bag beneath your bike seat. It’s also quite durable, with no discernable damage during our shock test.

This is indeed a tool made for cyclists: in fact, if you’re not a road warrior, you won’t get much use out of this except for the screwdrivers and bottle opener. It’s a good option for beginning riders still getting the hang of certain tools, though we noticed the manual is small enough to pack along with the tool.

The Details: 3.2 x 1.7 x 0.8 inches (closed length) | 6.4 ounces | 20 tools

Best Splurge

Leatherman free p4 multi-tool.

• Performance 5 /5
• Ease of Use 4.9 /5

It has a great variety of tools that are sturdy enough for home improvement projects.

It’s one of the pricier multi-tools on our list.

Another Leatherman multi-tool makes our list — and for good reason. The tools are easy to lock and unlock, though we observed that it’s better to use both hands to open and close it completely. The tools are sturdy and sharp: there are two blades sharp enough for sawing, a pocketknife perfect for whittling, and two sharp scissors. We found that the pliers grip well and can easily snip through plastic and wire. We also liked that there are both flat and Phillips screwdrivers.

The Leatherman name speaks for itself and so does this particular multi-tool, which we think is durable enough even to use for home improvement projects. If you’re handy at home or need to be while on the go, this is a great tool that’s worth the price. All told, we were impressed with the variety and effectiveness of the tools. Yes, this is the priciest selection on our best multi-tools list, but we definitely think it’s worth the splurge, especially if you travel often.

The Details: 5.38 x 7 x 1.25 inches (closed length) | 12 ounces | 21 tools

Wetols 21-in-1 Multi-Tool

• Performance 4 /5
• Ease of Use 4.4 /5
• Features 3.8 /5

You’ll be hard pressed not to find a tool you need.

The plier cutters aren’t as sharp as we’d like.

Don’t let the budget-friendly price fool you: we found this 21-feature multi-tool to be sturdy and useful yet compact for travel. We prefer to keep it in a pouch — which can hold additional screw bits — on the belt strap, but it can fit in a front pocket as well. Take your time exploring all the features of this multi-tool, which felt heavy yet comfortable in our hand during testing. Among the numerous fold-out tools are a blade for cutting wood, flathead and Phillips screw bits, and a bottle opener. We found most of the tools effective, though the rope threads got stuck in the plier cutters when we attempted a cut. It survived our shock test without any damage, so it’s as durable as some of the pricier ones on our list. It’s hard to believe this nifty little gadget is so affordable, and it’s totally worth buying one to have on hand for fixing things in a pinch.

The Details: 4.88 x 2.44 x 1.65 inches (closed length) | 11.8 ounces | 21 tools

Best Keychain

Gerber gear dime multi-tool.

Gerber Gear

• Performance 3.5 /5
• Features 4.7 /5
• Value 3.8 /5

It’s compact and the tools stow very easily.

The blades could be sharper and there’s no Phillips screwdriver.

We were impressed with the overall effectiveness and durability of this mini multi-tool from Gerber Gear. It might be one of the smallest tools on our list, but it’s mighty, having survived our shock test without a scratch. While this tool is compact and lightweight enough to keep on a keychain, the tradeoff is that some of the tools are so small that they don’t offer enough leverage to be truly effective. There’s no Phillips screwdriver, so keep that in mind if you plan to use your multi-tool mostly for driving screws. There’s no locking mechanism, but everything stows away easily without any sharp edges (in fact, we found the blades and the wire cutter to be a bit dull). At just $29, it’s a budget-friendly tool to keep handy, though those who reach for a multi-tool more often might prefer to use this as a backup option rather than the primary tool.

The Details: 2.75 x 4 x 0.6 inches (closed length) | 2.2 ounces | 12 tools

Other Multi-tools We Liked

There were some other multi-tools we found useful during testing, although we found some minor issues that prevented them from being on our main list.

Rak Hammer Multi-tool : If you’re in the market for a multi-tool with a hammer, this is a budget-friendly option. However, the very feature we love makes it too large to store easily, making this a poor option for air travel — but it could work for a road trip.

Leatherman Skeletool Lightweight Multi-tool : This multi-tool is super light at just five ounces. It scored well during testing, but it didn’t have as many useful tools and features as some of the others on our list.

RoverTac Camping Essentials 14-in-1 Survival Tool : While we appreciated the hatchet for use during camping and other outdoor activities, this feature made it far less portable than the other travel-friendly multi-tools on our list.

Our team of experts tried out 30 multi-tools. First, we evaluated the design and ease of access, noting the arrangement of each tool, how safe it was to open/close any blades or knives, and how easy it was to engage/disengage the locking mechanism. For pocket-size tools, we paid attention to how easy or challenging it was to tuck them away in an actual pocket. When testing larger ones, we clipped them to keychains, backpacks, and tool belts as alternative storage options.

We then put each device through its paces, trying out each tool for its dedicated task: for example, we used the screwdrivers on the multi-tools to tighten a screw into a piece of wood and the pliers to snip a piece of wire. Next came the shock test, in which each multi-tool was dropped from hip height to simulate it falling out of a pocket. We then noted whether each multi-tool’s construction or function was damaged in any way.

We made our final selections for this best multi-tools list based on performance, ease of use, features, durability, and overall value.

Tips for Buying

Be mindful of size and weight.

Comfort of use is important when choosing a multi-tool, so you don’t want yours to be too large or heavy. If it hurts your hand to use it, it’s not the one for you, says Boyle of Wood Magazine . He also recommends looking for features like spring-loaded pliers that make it simple for you to operate with just one hand.

Think about the features you’ll need

Your multi-tool will only be as useful as you find the individual tools to be, so keep in mind what features and functions you’ll want yours to have. Boyle recommends choosing a multi-tool at least with a knife, pliers or wire cutters, and a screwdriver (both Phillips and flathead). “Some multi-tools have way too many tools that are not necessary or useful for everyday use,” Boyle says.

Above all, make sure the blade locking mechanism is easy to use and that the rest of the features are intuitive. Boyle says it’s a good thing if you can figure out how to use each tool without consulting the manual.

Pay attention to materials

Boyle recommends stainless steel-constructed multi-tools to prevent rusting, though plastic is another good option. Proper storage is key to ensure that your multi-tool is protected from the elements and impact.

Frequently Asked Questions

It depends on the multi-tool’s design. The TSA prefers that you don’t keep any sharp objects in your carry-on bags, which will preclude you from boarding a plane with a multi-tool that has a knife or blade of any length. However, if your multi-tool has scissors instead of a blade, you can keep it in your carry-on as long as the scissors are four inches or shorter in length. In general, you can pack multi-tools in checked bags, which might be your best bet to avoid any delays in the security line, or worse, having your multi-tool confiscated.

While no state (at the time of writing) will bar you from owning a multi-tool, the carry laws will vary, particularly if your multi-tool has a blade. Typically, you can carry a multi-tool if it has a blade that’s four inches or shorter in length. You’ll need to check with your own state’s laws regarding open vs. concealed carry of multi-tools, as some features are perceived as weapons and can indeed be used as such. Above all, common sense prevails if you plan to carry your multi-tool.

Why Trust Travel + Leisure

For this story, Barbara Bellesi Zito reviewed insights from our Travel + Leisure testers with an eye toward the most user-friendly and travel-friendly options in multi-tools. For professional insight on the most effective features, she consulted Kevin Boyle, senior design editor at Wood Magazine .

Love a great deal? Sign up for our T+L Recommends newsletter and we’ll send you our favorite travel products each week.

Related Articles

19 Best Mechanic Tool Sets in 2023 (All Price Ranges)

Part of being a vehicle owner involves having a set of tools for regular care and maintenance. Of course, taking your vehicle to a nearby mechanic is the most preferred option in case your car suddenly starts malfunctioning. However, there are certain instances where you might be able to handle the necessary repairs yourself, this is when having a proper mechanic tool set comes in handy. If you are someone who hasn’t bought a mechanic tool set before or perhaps own a fairly substandard one, looking for the right set can be daunting. There are simply tons of them around, and each of them can differ greatly depending on their intended uses.

Fortunately, here at Mechanic Approved, we’re happy to do the heavy lifting for you! We have researched quite a few of the best mechanic tool sets on the market so you don’t have to! After hours upon hours of research and comparisons mixed with personal experiences, we were able to come up with a list of what we think are the best mechanic tool sets in the market.

As you move through this list you may notice that we have taken the liberty of labeling certain tool sets as the best in their respective price ranges and quality for example, “Best Overall”, “Editors Choice”, “Best Under $200”, and “Best Under $100”. We hope that this will help you find the best mechanic tool set for you!

Here Are The Best Mechanic Tool Sets

1. craftsman 450 piece tool set (best overall).

Shop Amazon

Key Specifications:

• Estimated Price: $300
• 191 Sockets
• 6 extension bars
• Complete Allen key kit

Craftsman surely didn’t hold back when it comes to the sheer volume of tools they included in this tool set. Aptly named the 450-piece tool set, this product comes with an extremely wide variety of tools you can use for various purposes. Despite that huge assortment of items, however, we dare say it’s not the most comprehensive tool set in the market, especially since it doesn’t include any pliers and a few other automotive tools.

But hey! Don’t let that discourage you from buying this tool set. There are a couple of reasons why we believe it’s one of the best out there.

For one, it comes with a massive collection of bits, socket heads, and Allen keys. All of these tools have such a wide range and diversity that you probably won’t be needing any kit for a long time – or even a lifetime. As far as working on various areas of your car goes, this kit is ready to take on anything. In terms of quality and durability, each individual tool in the set have the same excellent construction quality that Craftsman is known for.

However, considering that this tool set includes a pretty large assortment of tools, you can expect it to be quite heavy. It weighs around 45 pounds which isn’t really that ideal to carry around. Luckily, Craftsman designed the kit into separate cases, allowing you to take only a portion of the kit when needed.

Bottom Line:

If you’re looking for a mechanic tool set that has almost everything you could ever need, then this one might be for you. However, its weight might be a bit off-putting, especially if you prefer moving your tool set around with ease.

2. Beta 2056E/I-20 163 Piece Tool Set (Editors Choice)

• Estimated Price: $400
• Aluminum carrying case
• Includes small cases for bits and drivers

The Beta brand is relatively new to the market, so it’s understandable that this particular tool set doesn’t have a lot of reviews yet. However, we can personally attest to the quality and reliability that it has to offer.

First of all, the tool set contains a wide selection of 163 tool pieces with all the essential tools you could ever need for repair and maintenance. All of the tools are made of high-quality material to ensure durability and strength. Beta is on the rise and there is no denying their place on our list!

Apart from that, the tools are encased in a solid aluminum casing that features shockproof reinforced corners. This is to make sure that your tools are properly secured inside. It also has a non-slip rubber carry handle to allow for easier portability.

Despite having 163 different pieces, the entire tool set isn’t as heavy as the other kits on this list at only 17 pounds. All in all, it’s one of the few tool sets in this list that we have personally tested with the performance and results being satisfactory.

Perhaps one thing that sets the Beta tool set apart is that it features an integrated tool holder at the bottom. This is a nice addition that secures a variety of tools in place without them scattering when you accidentally drop the tool set.

3. Pittsburgh 301 Piece Tool Set (Best Under $300)

• Estimated Price: $250
• Chrome vanadium steel construction
• Rugged and sturdy casing

The Pittsburg brand might not come up too often when it comes to the best brands in the power tools industry. However, when it comes to quality and durability, this 301-piece tool set can definitely hold its own.

Included in this toolkit are 158 sockets, 10 combination wrenches, 24 screwdrivers, 3 pliers, universal joint adapters, extensions, and breaker bars among others. Due to their chrome vanadium steel construction, you can surely rely on the tools’ toughness and durability.

Aside from that, the labels on the sockets are fairly easy to read. It might not be a deal-breaker, but having easy-to-read labels can be really handy, especially if the tool set comes with hundreds of different tools in a single storage box.

Due to the inclusion of 301 tools, the entire tool set is pretty heavy, weighing around 47 pounds. This is something you want to consider before buying the set. Also, this may not provide you with the best value for your money, considering that the tool set from WORKPRO which we mentioned above has more tools at a much lower price.

4. Kobalt 227 Piece Mechanic’s Tool Set (Best Under $200)

• Estimated Price: $150
• Durable and organized case

We came across a large number of mechanic tool sets during our research, but the one that we believe is the best when it comes to its case design is this 227-piece tool set from Kobalt. What really captured our attention was its case which was designed to look like a cooler box with drawers. These drawers are specifically designed to allow you to organize all of the tools with ease.

There’s a total of three drawers that you can open and close easily. All those drawers are spacious enough to allow you to store your tools in a very organized manner. You can also find a carry handle so you can carry the box around without any problem.

Another thing that set this tool set as one of our top picks is the fact that the tools are made of vanadium and steel. In case you’re wondering, these two materials are known for their hardness and durability. Simply put, you can expect all of those tools to withstand any major damage without breaking.

Aside from that, all of the tools are enhanced with chromium to enhance their already solid durability. As a result, you can get chromium tools that are also resistant to melting and tarnishing. Of course, we can’t deny that it also adds to their overall appearance.

Lastly, the ratchets that are included in this tool set all come with a quick-release button for easy operation.

Overall, we’d be daring enough to claim this tool set has the most organized case in the market. If that’s something you’re looking for in a mechanic tool set, then this product is one that we would highly recommend.

5. Channellock 39070 94 Piece Tool Set (Best Under $100)

• Estimated Price: $50
• SAE and Metric sizes

Last on our list is this 94-piece set from Channellock. Though not as popular as the other brands we’ve mentioned thus far, Channellock still manages to hold its own as far as the quality and reliability of its tool set are concerned.

First off, this tool set is quite affordable and reliable, allowing it to receive a handful of positive reviews from its buyers. It contains all of the basic essential tools you would need for DIY repairs. Besides, the tools included are all made of chrome vanadium which makes them quite strong and durable.

In addition to all that, the set comes in a sturdy plastic case to keep all of the tools secure. It has a very lightweight profile, allowing you to carry it with ease.

If you only need the basic tools that come in a tool set, then this one might just be what you’re looking for. Despite being offered at a relatively cheap price, all of the tools have superior quality and durability, making the entire tool set a great value for your money.

6. DEWALT DWMT72165 204 Piece Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $195
• 72-tooth ratchet for 5-degree arc swings
• DEWALT DirectTorque technology

DEWALT is yet another well-known brand when it comes to making power tools. As a brand that’s been in the industry for almost a century, we can confidently claim that this particular tool set is one of the best there is in the market.

As the name implies, it comes with 204 different tools that include short and deep-set sockets, ratchets, swivel heads, Allen wrenches, box wrenches, and a whole lot more. However, compared to other tool sets on the market, the DEWALT 204-piece toolkit focuses more on ratchets and sockets. This makes it perfect for those who’re working with lots of nuts and bolts.

One of the selling points of this tool set is its primary 72-tooth ratchet that allows you to gain precise control on the torque you apply. It also has a slim profile which makes it easy to maneuver around hard-to-reach places. It’s also designed to be operated using a single hand, thanks to its quick socket changing feature.

One of the best things that we truly like about this tool set is that its ratchets come with knurled beauty rings to ensure a firm grip. However, if you’re looking for larger hex wrenches for brake work and other related activities, then you might be the ones included in the set to be a bit smaller. Aside from that, the entire toolkit is also pretty heavy to carry around at 30 pounds.

This tool set’s slim and lightweight 72-tooth ratchet is one of the best there is on the market. Also, considering that it’s manufactured by the DEWALT brand, we can vouch for this product’s overall quality and durability.

7. Stanley STMT71654 201 Piece Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $100
• 8 combination wrenches
• Chrome vanadium construction

This 201-piece tool set from Stanley is one of the simpler kits out there. However, don’t let that be a deciding factor that should affect your buying decision. Simple as it may, we can’t deny the fact that this tool set has a wide variety of tools that will be more than enough to take care of your repair and maintenance tasks.

At a price that’s cheaper than the previous tool sets we mentioned, the Stanley tool set didn’t hold back when it comes to quality. Its ratchet wrenches were all designed to be durable. Its overall build quality is great for its price, and the tools even have a polished chrome finish for excellent corrosion resistance.

Due to its cheaper price, you have to understand that it’s missing a handful of extras that you can typically find on higher-end tool sets. One such example is the extension bars. Then again, the fact that you’re getting good-quality tools for a relatively cheap price is something you’d want to consider.

Though lacking a handful of tools, this Stanley tool set can surely hold its own as far as quality goes. It might not have the same level of quality and durability that the more expensive tool sets possess, but for those who are on a budget, this is something that we’re confident enough to recommend.

8. Crescent CTK170CMP2 170 Piece Tool Set

• Durable storage case

If you own a mechanic tool set that’s manufactured by Crescent, then you might see this one as the newer, upgraded version of the CTK170CMP tool set. One of the main improvements lies in its storage case which has been improved in terms of durability.

Depending on your budget, you can consider the CTK170CMP2 as either a starter or an upgrade kit. Containing a total of 170 different tools, this tool set comes with most of the tools you need for your car care and maintenance needs. It features pliers, wrenches, sockets, ratchets, and a whole lot more!

One of the best things about this tool set that really caught our attention is its storage case. It doesn’t have the same aesthetics or level of organization that the previous tool set from Kobalt has. However, it does come with interior compartments that allow you to organize each of the tools properly. There are separate compartments for sockets, pliers, wrenches, and others.

As the newer version of the CTK170CMP tool set, the CTK170CMP2 comes with a wide selection of tools that come in various sizes. It serves as an excellent starter kit for newbies, but it can also be considered a good upgrade kit that doesn’t necessarily cost you more.

9. WORKPRO 408 Piece Mechanics Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $200
• 3 Drawer metal storage box

With 408 different tools, this mechanic tool set from WORKPRO has all of the essential tools you need, whether you’re a professional mechanic or a DIY guy. Each of these tools is forged using chrome vanadium to ensure their durability and toughness. Besides, they’re also finished in full polish chrome to protect them from corrosion.

Just in case the wide assortment of tools isn’t enough, WORKPRO also offers a lifetime warranty for the tools. Then again, since all of these tools are made of superior quality material, you don’t have to worry about them getting damaged at all.

Another thing that makes this tool set a worthy investment is the fact that it has a heavy-duty metal case. Similar to the one from Kobalt, it also has 3 drawers which is really a nice feature to have for easier tool organization. It also comes with a handle at the top so you can carry it around with ease. However, it’s a bit heavy at 27 pounds, so mobility might be somewhat limited at times.

To add to that, the metal case is fitted with a locking mechanism that will keep the other drawers closed upon closing the top drawer.

This tool set’s 3-drawer design surely comes in handy in terms of organizing your tools. It’s a more expensive option than that of Kobalt’s, but the fact that it comes with more than twice the number of tools makes it a bit better provided that you have enough budget.

10. DekoPro 168 Piece Mechanic Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $80
• Sturdy storage case

By far the most affordable tool set we have on this list thus far, the DekoPro tool set is the perfect choice for DIYers who want to have their first tool set without spending more. Despite its very low price point, you can get most of the essential tools you’ll need in a mechanic tool set. These include screwdrivers, sockets, wrenches, a hammer, utility knife, and a few more.

Compared to the more expensive ones we’ve mentioned and are yet to mention, the number of tools, particularly sockets, included in the toolkit is fairly limited. But as far as common DIY tasks go, these can be more than enough to do the job.

That aside, it comes in a compact storage case with a sturdy and durable design. It’s also very lightweight at just 13 pounds, thus allowing you to carry it around with ease.

We highly recommend this tool set to those who want to have their very first tool set without spending more. Of course, this means that the variety of tools can be limited. Also, they’re not forged from chrome vanadium unlike the ones from higher-end tool sets. But then again, their high-quality steel is enough to make them tough, durable, and long-lasting.

11. GEARWRENCH 110 Piece Mechanic Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $230
• Corrosion-resistant full polish chrome finish
• Steel construction

This 110-piece tool set from GEARWRENCH can be considered a decent upgrade option. However, unlike most tool sets on this list, it only features up to 110 different tools including an 84-tooth ratchet, sockets, and combination wrenches.

The small number of tools included might discourage you from considering this tool set for your upgrade, but here’s a good thing. Each of the tools included in the set all have a comfortable grip that allows for easier usage. Aside from that, the combination wrenches are constructed with an off-corner loading design. In case you’re wondering what that’s for, it’s intended for better performance while fastening due to a 25% increase in torque.

Then again, its higher price with a small number of tools included can be off-putting for some, particularly starters and DIYers. But for professionals, it remains to be one of the most solid choices on the market. In fact, all of the sockets and ratchets in this set are designed with professionals in mind.

Lastly, the product comes with a nice lifetime warranty.

If you’re looking to upgrade from a starter tool set to one that’s intended for professionals, then this tool set from GEARWRENCH is something you’d want to consider. It even has a compact and sleek look to it which adds to its professional appeal.

12. Hi-Spec 67 Piece Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $30
• Quick-release ratchet

If you’re looking for an even cheaper option than the DekaPro tool set we mentioned above, then this one from Hi-Spec is for you. For its very low price, we can highly recommend it as a starter kit, especially if you’re a DIYer who wants a mechanic tool set that comes with the basic tools. This can also work for vehicle owners who already have a huge collection of tools but want some extra tools added.

What we mean by this is that this one only comes with the commonly used tools you might need. It doesn’t have those specialized tools that you can normally find on tool sets priced at $100 and above. That said, the Hi-Spec tool set includes nose pliers, a decent set of sockets, hex keys, a pro-grade ratchet, as well as a voltage tester.

Despite being a lot cheaper than the ones we mentioned, all tools in this set are made from heavy-duty chrome-plated steel. This means that you can rely on their durability and toughness. It also allows you to tackle a wide range of jobs without any problem.

Lastly, all of the tools come in a sturdy yet compact case, making it really mobile and easy to carry around as you do your repairs.

There’s no doubt that this one is cheaper than that of DekaPro’s. However, you have to keep in mind that it only contains 67 tools whereas DekaPro has a total of 168. If you need more tools in your collection but have extra money to spend without going over $100, then DekaPro would be the better option.

On the other hand, if you simply want a small collection of tools due to a really tight budget, then this one is definitely a great deal.

13. Craftsman 224 Piece Mechanics Tool Set

• Cast alloy steel construction
• Sturdy Storage Case

Craftsman is a well-known brand in the power tools market, so it’s no surprise that we included not just one Craftsman product on this list. Yet another quality Craftsman tool set, this one comes with a wide assortment of 165 different tools. Compared to the previous Craftsman tool set we mentioned, this one only has around 1/3 of the total number of tools. However, it only has 1/4 of that previous tool set’s price!

This kit comes with 92 socket heads of varying sizes, allowing you to find the right one for your specific application. It even comes with extension bars to increase torque when necessary. Apart from that, it also has a set of Allen keys, a universal screwdriver, and wrenches among other essential tools.

Another major difference with this one is that all of the tools are stored in sturdy, compact, and lightweight storage. We mentioned the 450-pc. Craftsman tool set weighing roughly 45 pounds which is pretty heavy and hard to move around. This, on the other hand, only weighs around 14 pounds which is great for easy portability.

However, one thing you want to take note of is that the case doesn’t grip the tools firmly enough to keep them in place. Therefore, you have to properly open the case to prevent them from falling off.

If you’re really amazed by the quality of the products manufactured by Craftsman but don’t want to spend more than $300 for a mechanic tool set, then we highly recommend this product for you. Overall, we believe it’s a great starter kit that has a decent assortment of all the essential tools you could ever need.

14. STANLEY STMT73795 Mixed Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $115
• ANSI specifications

Another excellent quality tool set from Stanley, the STMT73795 mixed tool set comes with 210 different tools, just 9 more than the previous Stanley tool set we mentioned. It’s understandably more expensive, but the price difference isn’t that high to be fair.

Similarly, all of the tools in this toolkit boast of chrome vanadium forged body for that extra durability, torque, and toughness. It comes with the usual socket wrenches, a handful of universal screwdriver sets, sockets, a pair of pliers, a 16-ft tape measure, and a utility knife among others.

Apart from the tools’ durable and solid construction, each of them has a chrome finish to add resistance against rust and corrosion. Tools aside, the STMT73795 toolkit comes in a rugged yet durable storage casing that comes with separate components for each of the tools. This allows you to properly organize your tools and find the ones you need with ease.

All in all, the STMT73795 tool set from Stanley is a really solid choice as far as durability and reliability go. Its solid case keeps all of the tools in place. Add to that a strong chrome vanadium construction, and you got a mechanic tool set that can serve you for a very long time.

15. BEESTAND 205 Piece Mechanic Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $90
• Sturdy Foldable Case

A solid contender for a budget mechanic tool set, this one from BEESTAND comes with all of the basic tools you need for DIY repairs and maintenance. This set basically removes the guesswork out of choosing which tools to use while repairing your vehicle. Of course, it doesn’t have the more advanced tools you’ll find in more expensive options, but for a starter or a DIYer, you don’t really need such tools anyway.

Included in the set are your typical tools including hex wrenches, socket wrenches, sockets, pliers, screwdrivers, and a handful of other hand tools. Moreover, all of the tools are encased in a sturdy plastic case to allow easy portability and storage.

Since all of the tools are made of high-quality steel material, you can expect them to be really strong and durable. Besides, in case you encounter some problems with your tools, the brand’s 60-day money-back guarantee has got you covered.

For a starter tool set, this one is really a solid option you’d want to consider. There can a few downsides to it, such as the tools not properly secured to the storage when opening, but for a tool set this cheap, it’s a minor hiccup that you can simply ignore.

16. GreatNeck GN205 205 Piece Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $65
• 3 Drawer storage case

If you’re a DIYer who just wants a basic set of mechanic tools, then this one from Great Neck Saw is something we’d surely recommend. It’s designed to be a home mechanic set that’s targeted for vehicle owners who just want the right set of tools for their car.

It features the usual assortment of tools including hex key wrenches, sockets, screwdrivers, ratchets, and a few more. Since this is not designed for professional use, as is the case with the other budget-friendly options in our list, it serves best as an emergency tool kit in the event of unexpected issues with your vehicle.

Aside from that, the GN205 tool set’s storage case is designed to contain 3 separate drawers for quicker and easier tool organization. You can arrange each tool in its own separate compartment, and you only need to open the drawer that contains the tools you need.

Also, since the entire toolkit weighs only around 9 pounds, you can easily carry it with you anytime you want.

While the GreatNeck tool set might not be the cheapest option we have on our list, we still believe that it’s the best mechanic tool set for home use. So as long as you’re only doing DIY repairs on your own car, then this tool set is more than enough.

17. Performance Tool W1538 94 Piece Tool Set

• Estimated Price: $35
• SAE/Metric accessories

Though not as popular as the other big names on this list, this 94-piece tool set from the Performance Tool Store is regarded as a favorite among DIYers and even some mechanics. It’s because aside from its relatively cheap price, all of the tools included in this toolkit are designed to be strong and durable.

In the set, you can find the usual common tools and accessories such as screwdrivers, pliers, sockets, hex key wrenches, assorted hex bits, and more. All of them are arranged in a sturdy and durable storage case that’s also fairly easy to carry around.

Even though it’s quite cheap, the tools in this set are all made of high-quality steel to ensure their durability and longevity. Of course, due to having only basic tools, this tool set suffers from the usual limitations that other budget-friendly options have – and that’s the inability to tackle more complicated jobs.

For car owners who want to invest in a starter kit for their DIY repairs and maintenance, then we would highly recommend this tool set. It’s a bit more expensive than the tool set from Hi-Spec which we tackled above. However, it does have a higher variety of tools that can easily make up for that price gap.

18. AmazonBasics 145 Piece Mechanics Set

• Estimated Price: $70

AmazonBasics might seem like the most unlikely candidate in this list, but the reviews people gave this tool set say otherwise. It’s hardly surprising, really. After all, AmazonBasics has proven time and time again that it can deliver high-quality products on time. This 145-piece mechanic tool set is no exception.

While it’s certainly not the most solid option for professionals out there, this particular tool set is decent enough for both starters and DIYers. It’s more than just your average tool set, considering that all of the tools included are all made from chrome vanadium for excellent durability, strength, and torque.

Also, the wide assortment of tools in this set is more than enough to let you take on a wide variety of projects such as minor fixes and simple assemblies. Since the tools are made of strong materials, you can expect them not to break under pressure.

As if that’s not enough, AmazonBasics also made sure that the tools come in a beautiful case that’s designed to be pretty solid and sturdy. It comes in a polished chrome finish to make it look more appealing while providing it a high level of corrosion resistance. All in all, we’d recommend this decent tool set to anyone who trusts the level of quality that AmazonBasics offer.

Then again, AmazonBasics surely did a great job on this one. Not only is this tool set very affordable for DIYers and starters, but the fact that all of the tools are designed with durability in mind makes it a really great value for your money.

19. DESOON 128 Piece Mechanic Tool Set

• High-quality steel construction
• Durable carrying case

This tool set from DESOON is complete with all the essential tools you need for repairs and maintenance including screwdrivers, sockets, wrenches, ratchets, and more. All of these tools are made of high-quality steel for superior durability then finished with high-polish chrome for corrosion resistance.

Since all of the tools were able to meet ANSI specifications, this means that they can be used for both domestic and industrial jobs. However, considering that this tool set is more of a starter kit, it is fairly limited in its functions. Specifically, you can’t take on more complicated tasks since it doesn’t include those advanced tools that you need for such tasks.

Storage-case, the tools are encased in a durable blow-molded casing to ensure their protection. Besides, the design itself looks premium enough and also offers a decent level of dirt resistance, thanks to its black color.

With 128 different tool pieces, the DEESON tool set can provide you with all the essential tools you need for your DIY repairs and maintenance. Also, considering that it’s a budget option, it might as well be the best starter kit you could go for.

Choosing the Best Mechanic Tool Set (Buying Guide)

Before we get into the nitty-gritty of how you can pick the right tool set, let’s first talk about why you would need one in the first place. Basically, you will need a mechanic tool set for the following reasons:

It allows you to keep all your tools in one place

One of the best things about mechanic tool sets is that they allow you to organize all of your tools in a single case. Though the quality and durability of a tool set’s casing vary, we can’t deny the fact that it can help with your efficiency considering that you can quickly access your tools whenever you need them. Besides, smaller tool sets have the added benefit of portability, allowing you to carry them with you anytime you want.

It makes expanding your tool collection a lot easier

If you already have an existing collection of mechanic tools, then upgrading to a mechanic tool set is often a necessary option. In fact, there are several kits designed to ease the expansion by simply containing a wider variety of sockets and other tools that have varying sizes.

It’s more affordable when you’re planning to buy your first automotive tools

As someone who has experience repairing vehicles, we can never stress enough the importance of buying a mechanic tool set when you’re first starting out. Mechanic tools can be expensive when you’re starting, especially if you buy them one at a time. Meanwhile, a mechanic tool set can contain all of those essential tools you needed at a more affordable price.

It also takes away the hassle of deciding which tool size to pick since all of the size options are already included in the tool set.

It allows you to save money on repairs

If you’re more of a DIY person, then purchasing your own mechanic tool set can really help you save a lot of cash. Oftentimes, inexperienced vehicle owners tend to take their car to a nearby repair shop just to have even a minor issue fixed. However, by doing repairs on your own using your own assortment of tools, you can potentially save hundreds, even thousands, of dollars on car repairs and maintenance alone.

Of course, we still recommend taking your car to a repair shop in the event of serious damage; but for minor fixes, repairing them on your own is the way to go.

You can learn and even practice a new skill

Perhaps the best thing about buying a mechanic tool set is that you can learn a new skill and practice it. Once you tried doing basic repairs on your car, you will develop a tendency to learn more ways to do those repairs quickly and efficiently. This actually ties in to the previous reason which involves money saving.

Now that we tackled the reasons why investing in a mechanic tool set is worthwhile, let’s now have a look at the most important factors you should consider when buying one. They’re as follows:

Automotive Mechanic Tool Selection

Possibly the most obvious of all, you want to make sure that the tool set you choose has a wide selection and variety of tools. All of the tool sets we included in our list come with their own number of tools, but all of them surely contain all of the basic tools you need for your repairs and maintenance.

However, the more expensive ones also contain more advanced tools intended for professional use. So if you’re a professional mechanic, investing extra will sometimes be necessary just to get your hands on those tools. On the other hand, if you’re a DIYer, then a tool set with a fewer tool selection can be more than enough.

You can also choose to upgrade anytime you want. Just make sure that the upgrade kit you pick contains tools that aren’t present in your current one.

To give you a more detailed guide, here’s a list of the most important tools that your preferred tool set should have:

Any mechanic tool set wouldn’t be called a tool set at all if it doesn’t include a number of deep and standard sockets in various sizes. Ideally, you want to pick a tool set with sockets available in both metric and SAE measurements. Metric sizes are normally used by foreign vehicles while domestic vehicles tend to go with both metric and SAE.

We also recommend choosing a tool set that doesn’t skip on the socket sizes or at least have a very skips in between. If you plan to use your tool set for heavy torque applications, then it should have 6-point sockets in it.

Just like sockets, a tool set can’t be considered a tool set without a range of wrenches included. The wider the range of wrench sizes, the better as it will allow you to tackle a wider range of tasks. Always keep in mind that wrenches are necessary for a variety of projects such as working on areas that sockets aren’t able to fit and more.

Ratchets are another must-have in a good tool set as they are necessary to use all those sockets. However, your choice of a ratchet will depend on your working area. We recommend going for lighter ratchets if you have very tight spaces. Also, the more teeth a ratchet has, the easier it can get the job done. The 80-100 tooth range seems to be the most popular option in the market right now.

Screwdrivers

Screwdrivers tend to be a common addition in a lot of mechanic tool sets. However, you might come across some that don’t even have a single screwdriver in them. Depending on your needs and preferences, you might want to go for a tool set that contains various screwdrivers such as the magnetic and slotted variants.

Similar to screwdrivers, pliers aren’t always present in a mechanic tool set. However, there certainly are countless situations where pliers come in handy. But then again, you want to consider whether you actually need a set of pliers for your repair and maintenance needs.

Number of Tools or Pieces In a Tool Set

Aside from the variety of tools included in the tool set, you also want to consider the total number of tools or pieces it has. Most kits advertise around 200 tools included, but you should also keep in mind that each socket, screwdriver bit, and hex key counts as an individual piece. This means that you’re not actually getting 200 individual tools but 200 individual pieces.

Therefore, it’s best to check if a certain tool set has all the tools you need. Just because it has more than 300 pieces doesn’t mean that it includes all of the tools you could possibly need. Also, it’s worth noting that the more pieces a tool set contains, the more expensive it can get.

Lastly, also keep your skill level in mind. A set with less than a hundred tools is ideal if you’re a beginner, but if you’re more experienced, we recommend picking a set with more than a hundred.

Mechanic Tool Set Storage

You want to make sure that the storage case which holds all of the tools in a tool set is durable after all workshops and garages are not always friendly to fragile objects. Ideally, you want the case to be strong and durable enough to withstand impact without scattering all of the tools inside. You don’t want to pay for high-end tools only to end up with a poor quality case so we made sure that the items on our list include premium cases. Also, it’s best to consider a tool set with a case that has compartments for each of the tools. There are even some that have separate drawers for even better tool organization.

Knowing Your Skill Level With Automotive Mechanics and Tools

There’s a difference between a mechanic tool set for a professional and a DIYer car guru. The reason why we labeled several tool sets on our list as starter kits is simply because they have all of the basic essential tools that newbies can use. At this skill level, you’ll only need the basic tools to tackle minor fixes and repairs since at this point, you don’t have enough experience to take on the more complicated issues or repairs.

However, if you’re a professional mechanic, you already know that the best option would be those tools that contain several hundred tool pieces, or the so-called upgrade kits. These sets contain more advanced tools that you will need to take on more complicated jobs as a professional.

ANSI/ASME Tool Specifications

Both the ANSI (American National Standards Institute) and ASME (American Society of Mechanical Engineers) are non-profit organizations that hand over certifications to tools that are able to meet, even exceed, the standards they set. Therefore, if a tool set has a certification from one or both of them, then you can expect that it has a higher quality than your average toolkit.

Mechanic Tool Set Warranty

Warranty is a factor that often gets overlooked when it comes to buying mechanic tool sets. However, what most people don’t know is that warranties can really be a huge help, especially if we’re talking about those that last a lifetime.

As much as possible, you want to check if a product comes with a warranty or not. This information is often included in its details or can be found on the manufacturer’s website itself.

Mechanic Tool Set Customer Reviews

Customer reviews are often one of the few things that buyers tend to look at first when buying a product. Through these reviews, you’ll be able to assess whether a product is worth buying or just a complete waste of money.

When it comes to mechanic tool sets, we really recommend checking out customer reviews of each of the products on their respective Amazon pages. You’ll want to go for a product that has a lot of positive reviews as much as possible.

Through these reviews, you can also learn what a tool set’s upsides and downsides are. For example, you could come across a review saying that while a tool set is pretty good in terms of performance, the issue is that it’s quite heavy. Some will have a mix of pros and cons while also only lean more on either the pros or the cons of a tool set.

In your case, you want to weigh your options properly. Is the downside pointed out mostly in the reviews negligible? Do people share the same thoughts regarding a product’s strong features? Or is it even worth the cost? These are just a few of the information you can learn when checking out customer reviews. Moreover, you can even come across information that wasn’t even included in a product’s list of features.

Budget For Your Mechanic Tool Set

The last thing you’d want to consider is, of course, your budget. Do you want to go for the basic tools from a starter kit, or do you want the more advanced tools from the higher-end sets? Do you want tools that will serve you for a long time, or are you planning to upgrade your kit sometime soon?

These questions can be really vital if you want to consider how much budget you should spend on a mechanic tool kit. As mentioned earlier, the more tools a tool set has, the more expensive it will be. As such, you want to assess whether you really need those extra tools, or are you just fine with the basic yet essential ones.

Best Mechanic Tool Set Brands

There are several brands of mechanic tool sets on the market and it is important to know which brands are regarded as the most trusted. To help you decide, here’s a list of the most reputable brands out there:

Dewalt is one of the leading names when it comes to tools. Their range of products isn’t just limited to mechanic tools but also tools for manufacturing, construction, woodworking, and more. Most of the products that Dewalt offers are valued for their durability and quality, like the DWMT72165 tool set is a perfect example of Dewalt’s high quality.

As far as we are concerned the first two on this list are interchangeable, Kobalt and Dewalt are always neck and neck when it comes to high-quality tools. In fact, around the labor force you may notice they each have a respective following that may garnish a small rivalry from time to time, but there is no mistaking Kobalt is a big name in the hardware world and they have easily carved out a place near the number one spot.

3. Stanley Tools

Stanley Hand Tools is a brand that has been in the market for a longer time than the previously mentioned brands. It’s a brand that belongs to Stanley Black & Decker Inc. which is regarded as one of the most successful Fortune 500 companies in the Us.

Founded back in 1834, the brand surely has a long history of providing high-quality tools that were proven to stand the test of time. However, what truly makes this brand stand out from the rest is its exceptional customer support.

4. Craftsman

Just like Stanley, Craftsman is also another brand that belongs to Stanley Black & Decker Inc. Compared to Stanley Hand Tools, Craftsman focuses more on creating a wide range of tools that are designed for handymen, DIYers, and mechanics. This ensures that the tool set products manufactured by this brand are all designed with mechanics in mind.

Like most high-end tool sets on the market, the ones created by Craftsman are also made of chrome vanadium. However, the only difference is that these tools are surprisingly lightweight.

The term “Made in China” might discourage you from even considering this brand, especially since that term was associated with poor quality back then. However, WORKPRO is one of those Chinese companies that managed to prove to their target consumers that they can compete with other well-known brands in terms of the overall quality of their products.

As a company that’s been in operation for almost a century now, WORKPRO was able to create a reputation in making highly reliable and long-lasting tools. If you’re a DIYer who needs a reliable mechanic tool set, then this brand is one of the few you should definitely consider.

6. Crescent

Crescent is one of the largest manufacturers of tools around the world. It has a long history of manufacturing high-quality tools, and it even claims to be one of the early pioneers for the adjustable wrench that was introduced more than a century ago. Of course, none would even dare dispute that claim considering that people can really see the craftsmanship and quality of work they’ve poured into their products.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions About Mechanic Tool Sets)

Is it necessary to buy a mechanic tool set with lots of tool pieces.

To be fair, you probably don’t need a lot of tools in your mechanic tool set. If you’re a starter or a DIYer, you’ll only need the basic essential tools to tackle several applications. There’s really no universal answer when it comes to the number of tools that your tool set should have.

However, what you want to make sure is that it has an adjustable wrench, screwdrivers, a ratchet, and a few sockets. These tools are the only ones you need when you’re just planning to do basic DIY stuff. On the other hand, if you’re a professional mechanic, you’ll most likely need more. Also, a tool set with more advanced tools can come in handy since they are designed for tougher and more complicated tasks.

In most cases, these tool sets can contain at least a hundred pieces of tools.

Is it okay if I just assemble my own set of tools?

Absolutely. It’s fairly easy to assemble your own set of mechanic tools. Doing so will allow you to customize your toolkit and get just the right number of tools you need. The downside, however, is that this can most likely cost you more than buying a ready-made kit.

The reason for this is that some tools are more expensive when bought individually. Apart from that, collecting all of your needed tools to add to your set can take some time. For this, you want to weigh your option between customization and value.

Why are some tools too expensive?

Aside from the branding, some mechanic tool sets are too expensive due to two main reasons: first is that they have more tools with an even wider selection, and second is that they’re likely made of higher-quality material.

Most cheaper tool sets have tools that are made of high-quality steel. Meanwhile, more expensive tool sets have tools that are made of chrome vanadium alloy. Although high-quality steel is durable enough to last you a long time, chrome vanadium alloy proves to be the better choice in terms of overall strength and durability.

Also, tools in cheaper tool sets are designed only for basic tasks, unlike the more expensive ones that are specifically designed for complicated repairs and maintenance.

How can I determine the quality of tools in a mechanic tool set?

As of now, there are no concrete standards that will allow you to determine the quality of tools that are included in a mechanic tool set. However, there are a few areas you can check to help you determine if the tools are of good quality or not.

One of them is the ANSI/ASME certification which, as we mentioned earlier, certifies that the tools were able to pass the standards they set. Another is the brand itself. Ideally, you’d want to check for tool sets that were created by well-known companies that have a solid reputation for making quality products. The last one is customer reviews.

Tips for Maintaining Your Mechanic Tool Set

Your mechanic tool set is an investment, even if you only bought the cheapest on this list. As such, you have to make sure you can maintain it properly so that your tools will last for an even longer time.

For that, here are some maintenance and care tips you can follow:

1. Make sure to organize your tools properly in their storage. Proper tool organization allows you to keep your tools protected from various elements such as rust and corrosion. Luckily, most mechanic tool sets have their own compartments inside to allow easier tool organization, but if your tool set doesn’t have it, it’s best to invest in an extra toolbox for storage.

2. Apply aluminum wax to maintain the durability and appearance of your tools. Apart from making them look brand new at all times, doing this can also help keep dust away.

3. Inspect your tools after each use. Though most manufacturers create high-quality and durable tools, they can still be prone to damage after continuous use. The best solution to prevent them from getting damaged quickly is to check them for potential damage after use. You’d want to pay special attention to tools that have plastic or rubber parts.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, your choice of a mechanic tool set will depend on your needs and preference. We can’t really pinpoint the best mechanic tool set to a single product since each of the products we reviewed has its own applications as well as pros and cons.

Hopefully, we’re able to help you decide which mechanic tool set to buy for your repair and maintenance needs. If you think we might have missed a certain product, feel free to leave a comment below so we can check.

Feel free to leave a comment below on whether or not you think we missed a product that you think should be on our list! Also, lets us know of any experiences you may already have with any of the tool sets listed, your experiences may help other readers make a purchase decision! Thanks for reading!

My name is Codi and I have been interested in automotive mechanics for as long as I can remember. Today I am a professional mechanic as well as a certified tire technician with over 10 years of combined professional experience.

I started this website because over the years I have noticed an increasing trend of false information among customers and automotive professionals alike. So I have gone to great lengths to provide the most factual information about tools, vehicles, companies, and other automotive products so that anyone can be provided with solid information on what they might be looking for.

I was born in South Florida and am currently located in Western Pennsylvania. I have seen how vehicles and tools respond to all types of weather conditions and scenarios over the years and I am happy to share every bit of automotive and mechanical knowledge I possess to help better inform the general public. Here at Mechanic Approved, our goal is to provide the best automotive mechanic information so that both customers and professionals can make better-informed purchases.

Leave a Comment

• Account Settings
• Aston Martin
• Lamborghini
• Mercedes-Benz
• Rolls-Royce

Car Reviews

Car comparisons, auto resources.

• Auto Insurance
• Auto Glass Repair
• Auto Warranty
• Product Roundups

Top stories

• enhanced-post

Buyer's Guide: The Best Tool Sets for Mechanics

Photo credit: Vlad Linev / Shutterstock.com

Whether you’re looking to get into DIY auto repair, improve the functionality of your garage workspace, or have simply found yourself in need of a new set of tools, the options for pre-bundled tool sets are numerous. Below, we’ll highlight a wide range of options to help aspiring and professional mechanics alike with easy access to the tools required to tackle virtually any job.

Tool sets come in many shapes and sizes, and we’ve highlighted some of our favorites below. If you want to know more about what to look for and some other general tips and advice on mechanics tool sets, use our table of contents to navigate.

Table of contents

• 1. Editor's Pick: DEWALT Mechanics Tool Set

2. Crescent 170-Piece Mechanics Tool Set

3. craftsman 450-piece mechanic’s tool set, 4. stanley laser etched socket set, 5. workpro 183-piece tool set, 6. campbell hausfeld 62-piece air tool kit, 7. channellock 94 piece tool set, 8. dewalt 15-piece accessory tool kit, good things to know about buying a tool set, 1. editor's pick: dewalt mechanics tool set.

This DEWALT mechanics tool set has virtually everything the mechanic needs and wants for a wide range of general repair jobs. Built by one of the industry’s foremost tool manufacturers and backed by a lifetime warranty, this kit has almost universally perfect owner reviews.

DEWALT is a trusted brand in tools, and this tool set provides a variety of wrenches, sockets, adapters, drivers, and accessories commonly used for repair jobs around the car and home.

Notably, it includes a ratchet with a 72-tooth count, for a 5-degree arc swing that’s ideal for less-frustrating use in very tight quarters. A compact and sturdy case keeps all items organized and protected, and this tool set line can be scaled up and down for size, with options ranging from 84 to 247 pieces.

Improvements and tweaks to this bestseller drive even more value for the professional or amateur mechanic. With an improved case, sturdier construction, and an updated screwdriver set, the Crescent 170-piece tool set is better than ever—and it’s got everything you need to tackle a plethora of basic to moderately challenging automotive repair jobs.

Affordable pricing and compact sizing make this product accessible and portable, and a full socket set with three drivers is included—as is a full screwdriver set, hex key set, and more. This is actually an Amazon’s Choice for tool kits.

The generally positive owner reviews reinforce that this is a great tool kit for beginners, and the deep pockets in the storage case help keep all tools, bits and sockets in place. Just check the package upon receipt, as some owners have complained of missing or rusty tools, right out of the box.

Set your home garage up with this tool kit from Craftsman , and you may never need to buy another tool set again. Designed to make any repair job easier and faster, it includes built-in tool drawers integrated within a sturdy plastic case that’s inspired by a traditional toolbox. The case snaps shut and includes a handle for maximum portability — and despite carrying 450 pieces, it’s compact enough to fit on any workbench, or in the trunk of any car.

Items within snap firmly into place, making it easy to organize and secure all tools. Included are some 450 items—including wrenches, a full socket and driver set, 6 extension bars, over 180 bits, 40 hex keys, 191 sockets and 6 adapters.

There’s a lifetime warranty too — a good thing since a handful of owner reviews complain of lower-than-expected quality. By and large, this Craftsman Mechanics tool set looks like the ultimate single-purchase toolkit for the home garage with virtually everything you’ll need for virtually any repair job.

This 99-piece laser etched socket set from Stanley may be the last socket set you’ll ever buy. Chrome vanadium construction ensures a long and durable life, and the six and eight-point sockets reduce slippage and rounding of even the toughest bolts. The quick-release sockets and easy-reverse mechanism help you speed through tricky repairs, and each kit includes pear-head ratchets, deep well sockets, standard sockets, a spinner handle, extension bars, spark plug sockets, a set of bits, and a strong plastic carry case for maximum portability.

Stanley is a highly rated name in tools, and though this kit is priced at a premium compared to similar products from economy brands, it backs owners up with a no-nonsense lifetime warranty. Owner reviews are highly positive and center around the built-in long-lasting value, although some owners wish for a sturdier case.

With compellingly affordable pricing and nearly 90 percent of owner reviews in the 4 or 5-star range, this tool set from Workpro stacks up as a fantastic deal on a full-function setup for the home mechanic. The five-compartment toolbox features a cantilever organizer, allowing users to quickly see and access virtually every item in the kit, with ease. All-metal construction answers the call of shoppers after a sturdy and long-lasting case, and the tools within are built to last too, thanks to an anti-corrosion finish and construction that meets or exceeds the ANSI specifications for safety and durability.

Sockets, screwdrivers, bits, pliers, hex keys, wrenches and even zip-ties are all included.

Owner reviews back this product up, with many users reporting that the tools are of higher-than-expected quality given the price and that the toolbox itself is handy and solid. There’s even extra space inside to add additional tools if desired.

Whether you’re looking to replace some aging air tools, or to make the switch to air tools for your DIY automotive repair needs, the Campbell Hausfeld 62-Piece Air Tool Kit is worthy of your investigation. With a ½-inch impact wrench with 250 foot-pounds of torque, even the toughest jobs can be tackled with a tug on the trigger. An air ratchet is also included, as is an air hammer, blow-gun, numerous accessories, 10 sockets, and much more. Items store in a sturdy, low-profile case that can fit into most toolbox drawers.

Campbell Hausfeld is a well-known brand in affordable, quality air tools, and owner reviews reinforce that this kit is tough to beat for the price. Just remember, these tools need to be hooked up to an air compressor to run, so you’ll need (at minimum) an air compressor and air lines to make use of them.

With a balance of cost, quality and brand reputability, this affordable and comprehensive tool set from Channellock has mostly positive owner reviews, an exceptional price, and amounts to a great addition to any workspace. It’s also a great investment for those who need to keep a portable toolkit handy in a vehicle, on a boat, at a campsite, or around the house. All must-have sockets, ratchets, adapters and common bits are included, as is a hex driver set and screwdriver set.

A sturdy plastic case keeps all items intact and in place, and low-profile construction keeps this cheap and effective tool set from taking up too much space. A one-year warranty is included.

This well-reviewed, high-quality tool kit makes the perfect addition to any standard tool set, and allows the user to do more with their existing tools. Added flexibility comes by way of a set of adapters, extensions, spark-plug sockets, and universal joints, which can be used with virtually any ratchet and driver to extend its reach or flexibility. The included sockets feature DirectTorque technology to help reduce stripping and rounding of stubborn fasteners.

The DEWALT 15-piece Accessory Tool Kit comes with 4.8 out of 5 star reviews, the backing of a world leader in quality tools, and a lifetime warranty—so you can buy with confidence. Those looking to enhance the functionality of their existing tool set, or for a handy add-on purchase for use with a new one, need look no further than this affordable accessory kit.

Check the Warranty: Most sets come with a decent warranty against breakage, wear and defects, though not all tool set warranties are created equal. Higher-end (i.e. pricier) brands tend to offer better warranty coverage, with some even backing their products with a lifetime guarantee. Other (less expensive) brands tend to offer more simple, shorter-term warranty coverage.

Weigh the costs of a higher-end brand, and the associated increase in warranty coverage, against your needs and budget. Do you need to spend more on a brand backed by a longer warranty, if your tools will only be used for occasional basic repairs? What would it cost to replace a single ratchet or pair of pliers if needed? Are you a professional mechanic who is hard on their tools?

Understand how you’ll use the tools, and the costs of improved warranty coverage, before you buy.

Consider Air Tools: If you’re outfitting your home garage with a toolkit for the first time, now’s the time to consider investing in air tools. Powered by an air compressor , an air-powered toolkit is popular amongst professional and amateur mechanics alike.

Air tools work faster and are typically easier on the operator than their manually powered counterparts—though you’ll need to invest in an air compressor to run them. As an added bonus, that air compressor can be used with a plethora of accessories, including sanders, buffers, a blow-off gun, a tire inflator, and more.

Going with air tools is more expensive, though it provides more possibilities towards a more functional workshop, helps make seasonal tire swaps easier and faster, and opens the door on numerous useful accessories that can make tire and toy inflation, shop cleanup, vehicle detailing and even oil changes easier and faster.

Consider a Reputable Brand: Many a mechanic knows that you can buy the cheap tools over and over again, or buy the expensive ones once. You tend to get what you pay for with automotive tool sets, and opting for a kit from a reputable brand has numerous benefits if it’s in your budget. Expect longer tool life, better warranty coverage, and improved peace of mind—but note that the average home mechanic is likely fine with a middle-of-the-line kit and may get minimal added benefit from spending hundreds more on a similar product.

Other Accessories for the Garage: A toolkit is only a starting point for a full-function garage workshop. If you’re looking to deck out your workspace, consider supplemental accessories like a sliding workbench and/or creeper seat , car jacks , or car ramps for easy access to the underside, power provisions like power bars and retractable power cords, magnetic tool and part organizers, and a quality toolbox or storage solution to keep everything organized.

Electronic Toolkit: In addition to your mechanical or air-powered tool kit, remember that a few electronic items are worth adding to your workshop as well. Key among them are a quality OBD scanner , which allows users to rapidly retrieve stored trouble codes and other information from the vehicle computer to help monitor and diagnose potential issues.

In seconds, the device is plugged in, performs a scan, and generates a report that can help DIY and professional mechanics alike to zero in on a problem area. Some OBD scanners even enable live data monitoring as you drive around, and others can link to the web to help find a solution to a detected problem more quickly.

Top 10 Best OBD2 Diagnostic Scanners

Don’t forget to consider a cheap Wi-Fi enabled tablet with a camera, which can be kept in the garage for easy access to car repair instructions, guides, schematics and notes. You can use the built-in camera to take photographs before starting a job, which can help put things back together more quickly when you’re finished. Just opt for a protective case—as the environment in your garage is likely to be hard on electronics.

Auxiliary Lighting: One of the easiest ways to make a more comfortable and productive workspace is to ensure plenty of access to quality lighting. If you’re using your new toolkit to do more of your own car repair, consider outfitting your garage with an ideal combination of fixed and portable lighting, to help ensure you’ve got great visibility when tackling any job. A few overhead or wall-mounted LED worklights operated by a wall switch, and a few magnetic, rechargeable trouble-lights can go a long way to increase visibility, safety, and comfort as you work.

Protective Gear: To avoid fatigue, injury and other harm, remember to work safe. If you’re outfitting your garage workshop, remember to include a set of safety glasses (a pair with built-in LED lights is best), as well as knee-pads and gloves. A height-adjustable bench, or two-in-one creeper bench, is a great accessory, too. Products like these make great supplemental additions to your garage tool kit and help improve safety and comfort during almost any job.

Cleanup: With your repair job completed, it’s likely you’ll have some heavy-duty cleanup to tackle. On the relative cheap, products like Floor-Dry, an industrial broom, a floor squeegee, a shop-vac, an air-nozzle attachment for your air compressor, and a shop-towel dispenser can all work together to make garage clean up quick and easy. After all: a tidy garage workspace is a happy garage workspace—and a safer and more enjoyable one, too.

We are committed to finding, researching, and recommending the best products. We earn commissions from purchases you make using the retail links in our product reviews. Learn more about how this works .

Justin Pritchard, an award-winning automotive journalist based in Sudbury, Ontario, is known for his comprehensive automotive reviews and discoveries. As a presenter, photographer, videographer, and technical writer, Justin shares his insights weekly through various Canadian television programs, print, and online publications. In 2023, Justin celebrated a significant milestone, airing the 600th episode of his TV program, AutoPilot. Currently, he contributes to autoTRADER.ca, Sharp Magazine, and MoneySense Magazine. His work as a technical writer, videographer, presenter, and producer has been recognized with numerous awards, including the 2019 AJAC Video Journalism Award and the 2018 AJAC Journalist of the Year. Justin holds a Bachelor of Commerce (Hons) from Laurentian University, which he earned in 2005. His career in automotive journalism began that same year at Auto123.com. Since then, he has written one of the largest collections of used car buyer guides on the internet. His passion for photography, nurtured from a young age, is evident in his work, capturing the scenic beauty of Northern Ontario. Living in a region with a particularly harsh winter climate has made Justin an expert on winter driving, winter tires, and extreme-weather safety. Justin’s significant achievements include: 2019 AJAC Video Journalism Award (Winner) 2019 AJAC Road Safety Journalism Award (Runner-Up) 2019 AJAC Automotive Writing (vehicle review topics) (Winner) 2019 AJAC Automotive Writing (technical topics) (Winner) 2018 AJAC Journalist of the Year You can follow Justin’s work on Instagram @mr2pritch and YouTube @JustinPritchard.

More by Justin Pritchard

Join the conversation

Popular articles.

Best Small SUV: The 11 SUV Mega Comparison

3 Reasons Why the 2024 Honda Civic is the Best and 1 Reason It’s Not

Best Small SUV | Testing (almost) Every Compact SUV

Affordable Cars With Surprisingly Higher-End Interiors: Top 10

The Plug-in Hybrid With the Longest Range: Top 10 List

Latest comparisons.

2024 Porsche Cayenne S and Cayenne Coupe Review

What’s the Difference Between the 2023 and 2024 Subaru Crosstrek?

Volkswagen Atlas SE Vs SEL: Which Trim is Right for You?

Hyundai Palisade Vs Mazda CX-90 Comparison

Toyota Corolla LE Vs Nissan Sentra SR Comparison

Car buying tools.

• How to Buy a Car
• Free dealer Price Quote

You may also be interested in

The Best LED Headlight Bulbs to Light Up the Road

Sailun Inspire Review: Blind Comparison Test

How Much Do Windshield Replacements Cost? (2023)

The Kia K4 Already Looks Like A Big Step Up

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe First Drive Review: Adventure Time

Subaru Retains Pricing for 2025 Legacy and Outback Amidst Updates

BMW Vision Neue Klasse X Concept Hands-On Preview

Kia Carnival Vs Chrysler Pacifica Comparison

2024 Honda Civic Sedan Touring Review: Still a Benchmark

The Kia Stinger Could Be a Future Classic

3 Things We Like About the 2023 Grand Wagoneer L and 2 We Don't

2024 Alfa Romeo Tonale Veloce Review: Plugged Into the Mainstream

The Rivian R2 Is The Affordable Rivian You've Been Waiting For

2024 Honda CR-V Sport-L Review: Comparative Sweet Spot

2024 Hyundai Santa Fe NHL Edition Comes With a Signed Bedard Jersey

Enhanced Dealer Service Satisfaction Clashes with Rising Wait Times

The 2024 Porsche Macan EV Is Here

FMS FCX24 RTR Power Wagon 1/24 Scale RC Rock Crawler Review

10 Best Mechanic Tool Brands Used by Professionals

• Updated: January 7, 2023

What are the best tools for mechanics? Whether you are just starting out in your mechanic hobby or you are a lifelong technician looking for some upgrades, you must evaluate all of the top tools brands available. 

In this guide, I dive deep into each of the top brands, so you understand what they all have to offer mechanics. I also answer some of your top questions about mechanics tools and the top brands. 

Best Tools for Mechanics: Top Brands Reviewed 

Depending on what you are looking for, Snap-On, Mac Tools, Kobalt, and OTC provide some of the best mechanic’s tools. You can also trust Craftsman, SK Hand Tools, Makita, Blackhawk, Wright Tool, and Williams if you are in need of some more tools to work on cars. 

Here is a more detailed list of the best mechanic tool brands:

It’s not abnormal to see the Snap-On distributor at most garages, looking to upgrade the tools and sell new products. Mechanics around the country have trusted this automotive tool company since the 1920s. What’s most interesting is that Snap-On owns multiple brands that you might not have known about, including Blue Point, CDI Torque, and Williams, which I will discuss in more detail in a moment. 

Snap-On has every mechanics tools you could need, from your screwdriver to your torque wrench. Plus, mechanics get a sales representative that will deal with any issues. Snap-On also creates high-quality tool storage chests to hold all of your equipment. 

• Date Originated: 1920
• Tool Warranty: Lifetime
• Most Popular Tool: Snap-On Wrench Set
• Biggest Perk: Dedicated Sales Representative

RELATED: Are Snap-on Toolboxes Worth It?

2. Mac Tools

Mac Tools is another company that has been in the industry for many decades. It originated as the Mechanic Tools and Forge Company in 1938. It wasn’t until 1961 that the name was changed to what we know it as today. With more than 800 tools to choose from, it’s easy to make your entire arsenal branded by this company. 

The company is best known for its wrench sets, screwdrivers, air tools and more. What many people don’t know about the brand is that it was purchased in 1980 by Stanley Black and Decker, further backing up the name. For this reason, you know that the lineup comes from the same parent company as Stanley Tools, Blackhawk, Proto and more, some of which we talk about further.

• Date Originated: 1938
• Most Popular Tool: Air Tools
• Biggest Perk: Huge Selection of Tools/Accessories

The Kobalt brand of tools hasn’t been around as long as many others, but it still deserves plenty of attention, especially if you are working out of a home garage. Kobalt tools can be purchased at your local Lowe’s stores. What the company is most known for is the lineup of battery-powered equipment that runs on lithium-ion batteries.

What’s most impressive about the lineup of Kobalt tools is the lower cost. You won’t have to pay a premium price to get the tools that are needed for regular car maintenance and repairs. However, you might have some trouble getting specialty tools made by this company, mainly because it’s not exactly geared toward professionals. 

• Date Originated: 1998
• Most Popular Tool: Lithium-Ion Power Tools
• Biggest Perk: Lower Cost

This popular tool manufacturer is known as the Owatonna Tool Company. Not only is OTC known as a top supplier, but the company also creates superior diagnostic tools. All of this experience isn’t anything new. The company has been around since 1934, when Godfrey Kaplan started the business in Owatonna, Minnesota. In 2012, Robert Bosch GmbH purchased the company, further advancing its popularity. 

The OTC tool lineup is mostly geared toward heavy-duty truck tools and hydraulic systems. For this reason, the tools aren’t always ideal for the regular car mechanic. Still, those that use the tools find them to be some of the most durable. The tools are meant to be stronger, so mechanics won’t need to purchase replacement tools any time soon. 

• Date Originated: 1934
• Most Popular Tool: Diagnostic Equipment
• Biggest Perk: Durability

5. Craftsman

Anyone that has used Craftsman tools tends to be a long-time enthusiast. For many years, the brand was backed by Sears, since that’s the company that created Craftsman in 1927. However, in 2017, Craftsman became part of the Stanley Black & Decker group. Today, the tools are most used by home mechanics and smaller garages because of how affordable they are.

Even though they aren’t the most expensive in the bunch, Craftsman tools can still be quite reliable and durable. Nothing has changed with the warranty and reliability since the switch of brands, which makes consumers even more interested in creating an entire workshop full of Craftsman tools. While you won’t be able to find the most advanced equipment on the market, it’s fair to trust Craftsman for all your hand tool needs. 

• Date Originated: 1927
• Most Popular Tool: Hand Tools
• Biggest Perk: Low Cost

6. SK Hand Tools

While it’s unclear when SK Hand Tools was created, it is clear that the company has been around since the early 1900s. It was originally founded by Manson H. Sherman and Noah Grover Klove, and so the company was known under the name Sherman Klove. Initially, SK was known for creating motor shell casings, along with munitions, but it wasn’t long after that that they were manufacturing tools, as well. 

In 2010, SK Tools was taken over by Ideal Industries Inc., a company based out of Illinois. Now, SK is known for producing more than 3,000 varying products for mechanics, professional or home-based. Plus, the tools are created from American steel, making it a true hometown brand. 

• Date Originated: Early 1900s
• Most Popular Tool: Drive Tools/Sets
• Biggest Perk: Made from American Steel

Makita isn’t an American company, but it has plenty of experience making tools. The company has been producing high-quality products in Japan since 1915. In the early days, the company was known for its motors, lighting supplies and transformers. By the 1930s, Makita began exporting electric motors. While the company is based overseas, there are plenty of factories in other countries, including in Georgia, the United States. 

Many enthusiasts find the tools to be lightweight and reasonably priced. You can find equipment for your beginner needs, as well as high-end tools if you are a long-time professional. The only downside to going with this company is the shorter warranty term. Many of the tools are only covered for three years. 

• Date Originated: Early 1915
• Tool Warranty: 3 Years
• Most Popular Tool: Brushless Drill Driver
• Biggest Perk: Wide Range of Products

8. Blackhawk

You may not have heard of Blackhawk, but the company has been around since 1919. Plus, it was started in Wisconsin, making it an American company. Today, the manufacturer is owned by Stanley Black & Decker, making it part of the Proto division. The lineup consists of basic socket sets for mechanics all the way through complete master sets. 

The lineup also boasts of more than a thousand varying storage units, wrenches, sockets and specialty automotive tools. What’s most impressive is how the tools are made from high-quality, cold-forged steel, which is part of the reason a lifetime warranty can be offered. Of course, with all of this durability comes a higher price, which is to be expected. 

• Date Originated: Early 1919
• Most Popular Tool: Specialty Items
• Biggest Perk: Cold-Forged Steel Design

9. Wright Tool

Another American manufacturer that’s not commonly talked about is Wright Tool. This provider has been around since 1927 and is now popular for a full lineup of pliers, screwdrivers and wrenches. Wright Tool also has another brand of tools known as Cougar Pro. While these are smaller companies than some of the others I’ve looked at, there’s no discounting the value.

Wright Tools are made to stand up to intense pressure and usage. The company employs the most advanced manufacturing practices, and relies on heat treating the alloy steel for the tools. For this reason, the provider can easily offer a lifetime warranty without losing any money. In the years to come, I see this brand growing even bigger. 

• Date Originated: Early 1927
• Most Popular Tool: Master Sets
• Biggest Perk: Heat-Treated Alloy Steel

10. Williams

Are you hoping to find the reliability of Snap-On tools without the high price? Some people claim that you can purchase Williams tools and get the exact same product. Whether this is accurate or not is questionable, but the lineup is reliable. Matthew Diamond and James Harvey created Williams in 1882, making it one of the oldest brands on this list. However, in 1993, it was purchased by Snap-On.

If you look closely, you will find some subtle differences between the two brands, but most home mechanics aren’t going to notice. For this reason, it could make more sense to purchase Williams tools versus the more expensive Snap-On, unless you like the personal relationship you get from the other brand. Sadly, most of the tools and tool chests are only covered by a one-year warranty.

• Date Originated: Early 1882
• Tool Warranty: 1 Year
• Most Popular Tool: Tool Chests
• Biggest Perk: Owned by Snap-On

What Brands Do Professional Mechanics Use?

If you walk into a professional garage, it’s likely that you will see either Snap-On or Mac Tools. Both of them seem to be a favorite among professionals, but there are plenty of other brands that are considered reliable, too. For example, OTC, Craftsman, Makita and Kobalt can all be beneficial, depending on your automotive repair needs. 

What are the Most Used Tools by Mechanics?

A professional mechanic is going to have an arsenal of high-quality tools carefully stored in a tool chest. Among these tools, you will find an impact wrench, screwdrivers, wrenches, hammers, pry bars, pliers, drills and an air hammer. The chest will also include diagnostic tools for figuring out what needs to be fixed.

What is the Best Quality Tool Brand?

All of the brands listed in this guide supply the durability you are looking for, but each is better for a different purpose. Professional mechanics will usually prefer Snap-On or Mac Tools for everyday use, while DIYers could get away with Makita or Kobalt tools. 

Should Mechanics Use One Tool Brand?

This is a personal decision. Many people prefer to stick with one brand to keep everything simple. This makes sense if you want to work with a Snap-On representative to get all of your tools or if you are looking for a lineup of cordless equipment that uses the same battery. However, there are times when it makes sense to choose differing brands for your automotive repair needs. For example, you may need a high-quality driver for consistent use, but you don’t need to spend a lot on your wrenches. In this case, you might prefer to use different brands for the two. You may also find that the durability of some brands changes over time, forcing you to switch to another, even though you already own a lot of tools from the prior manufacturer. 

Whether you are just starting out or you are looking to expand your professional arsenal, it’s possible to get high-quality mechanics’ tools that fit any need. By examining the best tools for mechanics, along with the top brands, you can find exactly what you need. 

Some of the best tool brands for mechanics include:

• SK Hand Tools
• Wright Tool

Choose a brand that ensures a lifetime warranty if you are worried about the tool breaking or opt for a cheaper brand that lets you save money. Either way, the power to diagnose and repair automobiles is in your hand as long as you are equipped for the job. 

With a minimal investment, you can start performing your own repairs at home, thereby saving money with every maintenance job or fix that needs to be performed. On the other hand, if you are working professionally at a garage, you want the right tools to complete your jobs faster and more accurately, all of which these brands offer.

Learn more:

• Snap-On vs. Blue Point Tools – Differences (& Which is Better?)
• 10 Best Automotive Scan Tools for Car Diagnostics
• 8 Best TPMS Reset Tools
• Mechanic Labor Rates Per Hour

Categories: Reviews

Related Posts

Latest Posts

• The Best & Worst Years Of Ford Explorer
• Best & Worst Years Of Toyota Corolla
• Best & Worst Years of Toyota RAV4
• When Should Your Child Switch To A Forward-Facing Car Seat?
• The Best & Worst Years Of Toyota Camry
• I Accidentally Put Premium Gas In My Car, What To Do?

Review: Why the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set belongs in your garage

Tackle regular maintenance, engine rebuilds, and everything in between.

By Scott Murdock | Updated Oct 15, 2021 6:35 PM EDT

• The Gear Locker

We may earn revenue from the products available on this page and participate in affiliate programs.

In 2013, I cracked open a Ducati dry clutch for the first time. I also flushed the brakes and changed the oil on my trusty, rusty pickup. In 2015, I stripped an old two-stroke Suzuki motocross bike down to the frame and gave it a thorough (but budget-friendly) refresh. During my time with a lovely little Volkswagen, I replaced its pesky high-pressure fuel pump cam follower every 10,000 miles. As I write this, the aforementioned truck is sitting outside with a freshly rebuilt motor, new brakes, and new suspension. 

What do all these projects have in common? Aside from me cussing up a blue streak and learning the hard way, they were all completed using the same Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set .

The tools were a birthday gift from my parents, who must have recognized that my penny-pinching frugality and attachment to needy old vehicles weren’t going away. Best, then, to provide me with the tools to keep my various project vehicles up and running. As excited as I was to open that black and red box for the first time, I had no idea how useful it would prove to be. 

Years later, I’ve turned enough wrenches and busted enough knuckles to know this tool set like the back of my greasy little hand. I’ve certainly added to my collection during the same time, and I’ve developed fond feelings for several brands of tools, so I’m no Craftsman apostle. I still don’t know enough to get through any repair without an angry YouTube or forum search, but if you want to know about this tool set, you’re in the right place because I have plenty to say.

Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set

Pieces: 232rnrnRatchet drives: 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, 1/2-inchrnrnMaterial: Vanadium steelrnrnFinish: Polished chromern

Craftsman builds tools, not intricate packaging slathered in marketing gibberish. Expect your new gear to arrive with a simple cardstock band with basic branding and product information.

If you’ve spent much time around hand tools, you’ll notice that the box itself is midway between high-end tool cabinets and the flimsy storage that’s included with budget kits. Molded plastic is inexpensive, but it does the job just fine. Latches snap firmly to keep drawers in place. An individual slot for each component keeps things organized –– a perk for most, and a blessing for neat freaks like me. Cleaning up at the end of the day is a lot easier when you can quickly scan the tray for open slots instead of retracing your steps to search the whole garage with blurry eyes.

Inside this tool chest are combination wrenches, ratchets, extensions, sockets, deep-well sockets, a dedicated spark plug socket, and hex keys in standard and metric sizes. Some variations also include miniature combination wrenches for small nuts and bolts in hard-to-reach places. A sufficient selection of six- and 12-point sockets let you choose between maximum grip and ease of use. That’s what I call being set up for success.

This tool set’s size and weight stay true to its middleweight identity. It includes the most commonly-used standard and metric sockets and wrenches. Three sizes of ratchets keep the bases covered for all but the most heavy-duty jobs. Still, the whole thing is easy enough to pack around when you want to save trips across the garage or load it into the car to help a buddy across town. Any smaller, and it might not have what you need. Any bigger, and you probably wouldn’t want to move it.

Life with the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set

Contrary to what you see on most car repair shows, wrenching is a messy business. My tools get regular baths in oil, grease, coolant, and a constant cloud of rust dust. I’m consistently pleased with how easily it all wipes right off Craftsman’s chrome plating. Despite all the chemicals, drops, and scrapes, these tools are no worse for wear after eight years of torture and torment.

The whole set is reasonably portable. I’ve loaded it up and taken the show on the road plenty of times. During the break-in period of my rebuilt engine, this tool box stayed in the cab in case my own handiwork got me into a bind. When a friend needed help installing an add-a-leaf kit to his Tacoma, off I went with my tool set in hand. The rest of the time has been spent next to the beer fridge in my garage –– a position of honor. Whether I need a beefy 3/8-inch drive to break a corroded bolt free or a Torx bit to install a new license plate light, opening this old tool box is always the first step to getting the job done.

What separates this tool set from the professional arsenals you’d see in a professional garage? It’s less about what’s in the box and more about what’s not. As strong as these ratchets are, there are times when it’s better to use a simple breaker bar instead. Some bolts are so stubborn that even that isn’t enough, or maybe there isn’t room to tag-team with a breaker bar and cheater pipe. You need an impact driver for that kind of work. The resulting force can be so strong that it compromises the chrome plating on basic sockets, so you’ll need to invest in a set of heavy-duty impact sockets. These can be identified by their matte black finish and noticeable heft.

Working on cars involves plenty of other specialized equipment that requires separate purchase. Plan on buying at least one torque wrench, because your wrist is not calibrated as precisely as you think . Other tools (pullers, presses, and the like) can usually be borrowed at your local auto parts store if you don’t plan on using them enough to justify a purchase. 

How we tested the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set 

Let’s agree to call the past seven or eight years a long-term review. During that time, I put this tool set through its paces both as a mobile kit and the centerpiece of my garage workbench. It’s had a go at bolts with so much corrosion I had to size up a socket, and high-end components so clean you could eat off them. Oil changes and complete engine tear-downs have been accomplished with the same set of tools.

The ratchets and wrenches got me through my engine rebuild from start to finish without a hiccup. The screwdriver handle and its assorted bits (six-point sockets, included) were a huge help when dealing with endless bolts holding plastic bodywork onto my old dirt bike. Street bikes seem to have more than their share of hex bolts, so having a large selection of keys at my disposal came in handy more than once. 

It’s pretty remarkable to think about everything I’ve gotten done with these simple hand tools. The last job I did was replacing the carpet in my pickup, which involved unbolting the seat mounts, unscrewing a few interior trim pieces, and using Torx bits to remove the seatbelts. None of this was complicated or difficult, but it would have cost hundreds of dollars in labor to have someone do it for me. This kind of equipment can pay for itself nearly every time you open the lid and give you the satisfaction of knowing your vehicle is running smoothly and looking its best because of you. Of course, the same is true if your vehicle is a heap.

What we like about the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set

If you can’t tell by now, I’m a big fan of this tool set. I still collect tools like a hoarder who’s inhaled too much brake cleaner, but this was a solid foundation that gave me the courage to dive into this world of DIY work.

Versatility is one of this set’s greatest strengths. The three drive sizes make it easy to delicately assemble aluminum components with the 1/4-inch ratchet or give corroded suspension retaining bolts the business with the burly 1/2-inch ratchet. Most jobs land somewhere in between with the 3/8-inch drive ratchet. All three have extensions to reach into tight spaces. There are enough combination wrenches to handle most other tasks, and the individual hex keys are far more maneuverable than a folding set. The generous suite of standard and metric sizes across the board almost never leaves me stranded (I’m looking at you, Dodge, with your whacky 1-11/16-inch axle retaining nuts).    

I appreciate the little touches that make this set particularly car-friendly. One of those things is the selection of deep-well sockets. Being able to spin a nut off a stud without contorting my hand to use a wrench makes a world of difference. Torx bits are a must-have for anyone who works on cars. Not only does this set have 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch drive bits for things like headlight housings and engine accessories, it has screwdriver bits that make popping plastic bodywork off and on a snap. The spark plug socket can save you money and frustration. A simple deep-well socket will work, but having a protective lining to secure a fragile ceramic spark plug makes the job easier and less stressful.

I know that some people swear by high-end tools sold from magical vans. Others have used cheap generic tools from their local hardware store for years without a problem. I don’t have endless money to throw around, and I’d rather not chance it with bargain-bin specials. Craftsman, and this mechanics tool set in particular, give me peace of mind without stretching the budget. This set includes all the most commonly-used components without up-charging for things I don’t need.

What we don’t like about the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set

While a lot to like about the Craftsman set, it usually starts to show its weaknesses deep into more serious projects. Rusty underbodies and high-strung German cars have sent me searching more than once.

When elbow grease doesn’t cut it and professional-grade impact drivers are called upon, the ‘sockets in this tool set aren’t what you need. That much force can crack chrome plating and damage the socket itself. To finish rebuilding my pickup, I had to add impact sockets to level-up my arsenal with power tools. This isn’t a deficiency of the Craftsman tool set, but it is an extra cost you need to plan for if you intend to get deep into the weeds.

Hex bits for the ratchets would also be helpful, but they can be added later. There have been a few times when the hex keys weren’t quite strong enough and I had to buy one set of standard and one set of metric sizes. These are especially handy when working on motorcycles. I opted for 3/8-inch drive and haven’t had a need for anything larger than that. Those of you with cars of the German variety may also be familiar with triple-square bits. They aren’t especially common in the big picture, but I added a set of those just to be safe.

Let’s be real: Most people have no clue how much money it actually takes to keep a car on the road. They’ll criticize a kid with a $40 muffler for being irresponsible, then turn around and drop hundreds of dollars at the dealership for a “multi-point inspection” or “tune-up” that’s little more than an oil change and a new cabin air filter. If you ask these people why they don’t do the work themselves for half the price, they’ll probably say they don’t have the right tools.

Good news, friends: the tools are right here. They’re easy to use, built to last, and relatively inexpensive. I didn’t know what the hell I was doing when I opened this tool box for the first time. I started with simple maintenance like oil changes and brake flushes. I read my repair manual until the pages were as thin as tissue paper. Now, I have enough confidence to complete most tasks myself and the humility to hand the rest over to a professional. 

Buying a basic tool set can be one of the most empowering and liberating investments you can make in yourself. Put one of these in your garage and start getting your hands dirty; if nothing else, it’s a great excuse to crank up some Waylon Jennings and pop the top on a cold beer. Take something apart. Put it back together. Give yourself permission to learn from your mistakes . Hell, I certainly did. 

FAQs about the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set

More questions? Here’s Task & Purpose’s additional brief. 

Q. How much does the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set cost?

A: The Craftsman Mechanics Tool Set will cost you about $250 . Consider that most shops have a labor rate of more than $100 per hour, and this investment will probably pay itself off the first time you use it.

Q. Is this tool set good for DIY projects?

A. This kit occupies a happy medium between budget tools and a suite of professional-grade goodies that can cost thousands of dollars. It has everything you need to perform most jobs in your garage, including regular maintenance, repairs, and modifications.

Q. Can the Craftsman Mechanic’s Tool Set tackle big projects, too?

A. Big projects usually require specialized tools, but most of what you need is right here. When I rebuilt my truck’s engine, I spent the vast majority of my time using tools from this kit.

Some of the other tools you might want to consider for big projects are an impact driver and sockets, a ball joint press, and a torque wrench. If you don’t have a set of jack stands already, they’re a necessity for many DIY auto repair jobs. 

It never hurts to have a good cheater pipe, either.

Q. Are Craftsman tools durable?

A. Craftsman built a reputation for quality long before I popped my first hood. I’ve never had a tool failure or even seen so much as a chip in the chrome, and I ask a lot of my equipment.

If all else fails, the tools in this set are covered by a manufacturer lifetime warranty . No questions asked, no fine print to read, no receipt necessary. Just take a broken tool to any retailer that sells Craftsman products and you’ll be taken care of. That kind of guarantee inspires a lot of confidence, especially at a competitive price.

Q. How do these tools compare to other brands?

A. Hand tool preference seems to be a generational trend. Many younger mechanics and DIY-types will swear up and down that Snap-On is the gold standard. The previous generation loves Craftsman and many of them can’t be convinced to make the switch. Husky is another popular brand and tools are readily available from most retailers.

How much are you willing to spend? Realistically, several brands make solid tools. I appreciate Craftsman because the tools rock and the price is right. I’m more than happy to stock my garage with tools backed by a bullet-proof warranty.

I would recommend avoiding the cheapest generic brands. Ratchets, in particular, are prone to failure if the build quality isn’t up to snuff. Go ahead and invest in quality tools from day one to save yourself from breaking something mid-project.

Got questions? Comment below & talk with T&P’s editors

We’re here to be expert operators in everything How-To related. Use us, compliment us, tell us we’ve gone full FUBAR. Comment below and let’s talk! You can also shout at us on Twitter or Instagram .

Related: The best car brands and deals to look for if you’re in the military

Scott Murdock is a Marine Corps veteran and contributor to Task & Purpose. He’s selflessly committed himself to experiencing the best gear, gadgets, stories, and alcoholic beverages in the service of you, the reader.

Scott Murdock is a Task & Purpose commerce writer and Marine Corps veteran. Since 2020, he’s selflessly committed himself to experiencing the best gear, gadgets, stories, and alcoholic beverages in the service of you, the reader. Contact the author here.

Subscribe to Task & Purpose Today

Get the latest in military news, entertainment and gear in your inbox daily.

• Tools & Home Improvement
• Power & Hand Tools
• Sockets & Socket Sets
• Socket & Socket Wrench Sets

Add to your order

• No Additional Cost: You pay nothing for repairs – parts, labor, and shipping included.
• Coverage: Plan starts on the date of purchase. Drops, spills and cracked screens due to normal use covered for portable products and power surges covered from day one. Malfunctions covered after the manufacturer's warranty.
• Easy Claims Process: File a claim anytime online or by phone. Most claims approved within minutes. If we can’t repair it, we’ll send you an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your covered product or replace it.
• Product Eligibility: Plan must be purchased with a product or within 30 days of the product purchase. Pre-existing conditions are not covered.
• Terms & Details: More information about this protection plan is available within the “Product guides and documents” section. Simply click “User Guide” for more info. Terms & Conditions will be available in Your Orders on Amazon. Asurion will also email your plan confirmation with Terms & Conditions to the address associated with your Amazon account within 24 hours of purchase.
• Buy a lot of stuff on Amazon? Tons of items eligible for coverage, from the latest tech like laptops, game consoles, and TVs, to major appliances, sporting goods, tools, toys, mattresses, personal care, furniture, and more.
• Accidents happen. That’s why for your portable products we cover accidental damage from handling such as drops, spills and cracked screens. We also cover electrical and mechanical malfunctions, power surges, and wear and tear.
• Past and future purchases covered. 30 days after you are enrolled, all eligible past purchases (up to 1 year prior to enrollment) and future eligible purchases made on Amazon will be covered by your plan as long as you are enrolled.
• Fast, easy claims. Frustration-free claims, with most filed in minutes. We will fix it, replace it, or reimburse you with an Amazon e-gift card for the purchase price of your product (excluding tax). File at Asurion.com/amazon.
• No hidden fees. For just $16.99 a month + tax you’re covered for up to $5,000 in claims per 12-month period. *THIS PROGRAM IS MONTH-TO-MONTH AND WILL CONTINUE UNTIL CANCELED* Coverage for all products ends 30 days after the plan is canceled. Cancel any time.

Enjoy fast, free delivery, exclusive deals, and award-winning movies & TV shows with Prime Try Prime and start saving today with fast, free delivery

Amazon Prime includes:

Fast, FREE Delivery is available to Prime members. To join, select "Try Amazon Prime and start saving today with Fast, FREE Delivery" below the Add to Cart button.

• Cardmembers earn 5% Back at Amazon.com with a Prime Credit Card.
• Unlimited Free Two-Day Delivery
• Streaming of thousands of movies and TV shows with limited ads on Prime Video.
• A Kindle book to borrow for free each month - with no due dates
• Listen to over 2 million songs and hundreds of playlists
• Unlimited photo storage with anywhere access

Important:  Your credit card will NOT be charged when you start your free trial or if you cancel during the trial period. If you're happy with Amazon Prime, do nothing. At the end of the free trial, your membership will automatically upgrade to a monthly membership.

Return this item for free

Free returns are available for the shipping address you chose. You can return the item for any reason in new and unused condition: no shipping charges

• Go to your orders and start the return
• Select the return method

3 Year Home Improvement Protection Plan

4 year home improvement protection plan, asurion complete protect: one plan covers all eligible past and future purchases on amazon, add other items:, image unavailable.

• To view this video download Flash Player

WORKPRO 450-Piece Mechanics Tool Set, Universal Professional Tool Kit with Heavy Duty Case Box

Purchase options and add-ons, about this item.

• 1/4in,3/8in and 1/2in Quick-release ratchets feature a fine, 45-tooth gear, providing an 8° arc swing
• Universal various of sockets are constructed of chrome vanadium steel, heat treated for strength and durability, bright Chrome-plated surface that allows you to easily identify your universal tools in your tool box or on your work bench
• With stamped marking for you to quickly identify metric and SAE socket sizes
• All tools are neatly organized in a sturdy blow-molded case for easy storage and transportation
• All tools meets or exceeds ANSI standards

Customer ratings by feature

Similar item to consider.

Frequently bought together

Similar items that may deliver to you quickly

From the brand

Anti-Slip Ratchet Wrench Set

Visit the Store

New Design Reversible Wrench

3/8" Drive Crowfoot Wrench Set

Flex-Head Ratchet Wrench

Flex-Head Ratchet Wrench Set

Wrench Set & Stubby Ratchet

Rubber Adjustable Wrench

Adjustable Wrench

Quick-release Ratchet Handle

Ratchet Handle

Product Description

WORKPRO 450-Piece Mechanics Tool Set, Universal Professional Tool Kit

175PC 1" S2 bits ;4PC adaptor:1/4"MX3/8"F、3/8"MX1/4"F、3/8"MX1/2"F、1/2"MX3/8"F;1PC blow molded case; 16PC 1/4" Dr. Bit sockets; 15PC 3/8" Dr. Bit sockets

40PC hex key:（short arm)1.5、2、2.5、3、4、4.5、5、5.5、6、7、8MM; 0.05"、1/16"、5/64"、3/32"、7/64"、1/8"、9/64"、5/32"、3/16"、7/32"、1/4"; (long arm)1.5、2、2.5、3、4、4.5、5、5.5、6MM; 5/64"、3/32"、7/64"、1/8"、9/64"、5/32"、3/16"、7/32"、1/4";

3PC 1/4"& 3/8"& 1/2" quick-release ratchet handle; 12PC Combination Wrench; 4PC Mini Combination Wrench;23PC 1/4" Dr. sockets in metric& SAE: 4、5、5.5、6、7、8、9、10、11、12、13、14mm; 5/32"、3/16"、7/32"、1/4"、9/32"、5/16"、11/32"、3/8"、7/16"、1/2"、9/16", 6pt; 10PC 1/4" Dr. SAE sockets: 3/16"、7/32"、1/4"、9/32"、5/16"、11/32"、3/8"、7/16"、1/2"、9/16",12pt

21PC 1/4" deep sockets in metric & SAE:4、5、6、7、8、9、10、11、12、13、14mm,3/16"、7/32"、1/4"、9/32"、5/16"、11/32"、3/8"、7/16"、1/2"、9/16",6pt

12PC nut driver:5mm、6mm、7mm、8mm、9mm、10mm、3/16"、1/4"、9/32"、5/16"、11/32"、3/8"; 5PC 3/8" SAE Dr. sockets:1/4"、5/16"、3/8"、7/16"、1/2", 8pt

30PC 3/8" Dr. sockets in metric and SAE: 6、7、8、9、10、11、12、13、14、15、16、17、18、19、20、21、22mm; 1/4"、5/16"、3/8"、7/16"、1/2"、9/16"、5/8"、11/16"、3/4"、13/16"、7/8"、15/16"、1",6pt

28PC 3/8" Dr. sockets in metric and SAE: 6、7、8、9、10、11、12、13、14、15、16、17、18、19、21mm; 1/4"、5/16"、3/8"、7/16"、1/2"、9/16"、5/8"、11/16"、3/4"、13/16"、7/8"、15/16"、1",12pt

19PC 3/8" deep sockets in metric and SAE:12、13、14、15、16、17、18、19mm; 3/8"、7/16"、1/2"、9/16"、5/8"、11/16"、3/4"、13/16"、7/8"、15/16"、1"; 4PC 3/8" E-sockets:E10、E12、E14、E16

16PC 1/2" Dr.sockets in metric and SAE:9、10、11、12、13、14、15、16、17mm;1/2"、9/16"、5/8"、11/16"、3/4"、13/16"、7/8",12pt

4PC Dr. spark plug sockets in metric and SAE:3/8"x5/8"、3/8"x3/4"、3/8"x18mm、1/2"x5/8"; 6PC extension bar:1/4"×1-1/2"、1/4"×3"、3/8"×1-1/2"、3/8"×3"、3/8"×6"、1/2"X3"; 1PC bit holder: 1/4"×1/4";1PC 25MM 1/4“ adaptor; 1PC 30*108MM magnetic bit driver handle

Dr. Bit sockets

• Constructed from Cr-v(bottom) and S2(head) steel with heat treated for durability
• Bottom with bright chrome-plated surface for corrosion resistance
• 1/4" Dr. Bit sockets:T8X3、T10X3、T15、T20、T25、T27、T30X2; H3/16"、H3/16"、H7/32"、H7/32"
• 3/8" Dr. bit sockets: T27、T30、T40、T45X2、T47、T50; H5/32"、H3/16"、H1/4"、H1/4"、H5/16"、H3/8"、H4、H5

Combination wrench

• Constructed from Cr-v steel with bright chrome-plated surface for durability and corrosion resistance
• Torsion exceeds ANSI standards
• Marked size in metric and SAE to meet your needs of different objects: 5/16"、3/8"、7/16"、1/2"、9/16"、11、12、13、14、15、16、17MM
• Come with 4PC mini combination wrench:3/64"、7/32"、5MM、6MM

Compact blow molded case

• All tools are neatly organized in a blow-molded case for easy storage and professional transportation
• Heavy duty design for durability and longevity
• Size:490X320X290MM

WIDE APPLICATIONS

• Perfect for the DIY enthusiast or professional
• Ideal for various of work, applying torque to turn rotary fasteners, such as nuts and bolts, screwing and unscrewing screws, in mechanic work and more

Product information

Technical details, additional information, warranty & support, videos for this product.

Click to play video

WATCH THIS Before You Buy. What You Need To Know.

Gio Reviews

Workpro 450pc Mechanics Tool Set Review

Alex Autofun

Very nice 450 pc tool set . Reliable and a must have

Looking for specific info?

Top brand: workpro, compare with similar items, customer reviews.

Customer Reviews, including Product Star Ratings help customers to learn more about the product and decide whether it is the right product for them.

To calculate the overall star rating and percentage breakdown by star, we don’t use a simple average. Instead, our system considers things like how recent a review is and if the reviewer bought the item on Amazon. It also analyzed reviews to verify trustworthiness.

Customers say

Customers like the value of the wrench, saying it's a good buy for the price. They also have mixed opinions on quality and attachments.

AI-generated from the text of customer reviews

Customers like the value of the wrench. They mention it's a good buy for the price, cheap but acceptable, and worth a buy. Some say the tool is nice but too expensive.

"...All and all, still a great value for the money and I would recommend this set to any shade tree mechanic looking for a quality set of tools." Read more

"This was a good value for the price and is a large enough set that it covers the average user's needs." Read more

" Decent set for price but bits and socket adapters break easily, not suitable for any heavy work or very tight bolts" Read more

"Great tool, recommended ." Read more

Customers like the organization of the wrench. They say it has everything they need and is well organized.

"...Decent quality, has everything I need is well organized and has performed great so far. Can't beat it." Read more

"...A great but I would recommend them to anyone looking for a nice all in one set " Read more

"...But a lot of tools that are very well organized and made" Read more

Customers are mixed about the quality of the wrench. Some mention it's a great all purpose amateur tool set for your home or garage, while others say that the bits and socket adapters break easily and the box was broken.

"This is a great tool set for the money. It's durable enough that with a cheater bar you can get off even the toughest bolts or nuts without breaking..." Read more

"Brought this for my husband since he got a new dirt bike. This came very handy . He's the tools are very good not cheap. Nothing broke yet...." Read more

"Decent set for price but bits and socket adapters break easily , not suitable for any heavy work or very tight bolts" Read more

"...The heavy duty carry case holds the tools in place but expect a few of the smaller items to move if you do carry the tools to a different..." Read more

Customers are mixed about the attachments. Some mention that the tool set comes with so many attachments that they want to start a new project just to use them all. However, others say that a couple attachments were missing.

"...The tool set came with so many attachments that I want to start a new project just to use it...." Read more

"A couple attachments were missing " Read more

"...Had every piece when it arrived. Has extras of some of the sockets . And has every specialty driver bit that you will ever need. I'm happy with it" Read more

"...through the sockets that were everywhere and noticed I was missing several sockets ...." Read more

Reviews with images

• Sort reviews by Top reviews Most recent Top reviews

Top reviews from the United States

There was a problem filtering reviews right now. please try again later..

Top reviews from other countries

• Amazon Newsletter
• About Amazon
• Accessibility
• Sustainability
• Press Center
• Investor Relations
• Amazon Devices
• Amazon Science
• Sell on Amazon
• Sell apps on Amazon
• Supply to Amazon
• Protect & Build Your Brand
• Become an Affiliate
• Become a Delivery Driver
• Start a Package Delivery Business
• Advertise Your Products
• Self-Publish with Us
• Become an Amazon Hub Partner
• › See More Ways to Make Money
• Amazon Visa
• Amazon Store Card
• Amazon Secured Card
• Amazon Business Card
• Shop with Points
• Credit Card Marketplace
• Reload Your Balance
• Amazon Currency Converter
• Your Account
• Your Orders
• Shipping Rates & Policies
• Amazon Prime
• Returns & Replacements
• Manage Your Content and Devices
• Recalls and Product Safety Alerts
• Conditions of Use
• Privacy Notice
• Consumer Health Data Privacy Disclosure
• Your Ads Privacy Choices

Popular Mechanics

These Expert-Recommended Mechanic Tool Sets Will Make Your Wrenching Easier

Posted: September 12, 2023 | Last updated: September 13, 2023

Worried about choosing and using a tool set? Don’t be! The earliest stone toolmaking happened more than 2 million years ago by cavemen—so you have literally evolved to use tools. It’s what sets us apart from the lower primates who don’t even know the difference between a 72-tooth ratchet and a 90-tooth one. (Hint: it’s the number of teeth in the mechanism.) You’ve got this. And we can help. When looking for a toolset, consider both “The Indispensables” and “The Time Savers.” The Indispensables are tools for which there’s no legitimate substitute ; for instance, if you need to turn some Phillips-head screws, it’s important to have the proper size Phillips screwdriver. The Time Savers, on the other hand, just make your life much better and easier. These allow you to replace your ancient, wobbly ratchet with a new 90-tooth design that will loosen that bolt in fewer turns. A good tool kit will have some of each. We’ve chosen some of our favorite toolkits in various categories below, with an eye towards both capability and value. One of them will probably be a natural selection for whatever work you have planned.

Best Mechanic Tool Sets

The Expert: I’m embarrassed to say that I won a couple of bike races during the Eighties with nothing in my “toolbox” but a crescent wrench and a pair of Vise-Grips. As soon as I could afford it, I got a proper Craftsman toolbox and everything I needed to make my bicycle work correctly. Thirty-five years later, I have a dealership-spec Rotary car lift in my home race shop where I work on my Radical sports racers and daily drivers. And yes, I’m still fixing bikes, after working at a few bike shops and even owning one… but nowadays I use the right tool for the job! My favorite daily use items: the SK ratcheting box wrenches, a Nepros socket set, and Wiha ball-end Allen keys.

What To Consider in a Mechanic Tool Set

Home, auto, or both.

More than almost any other item you could buy, a tool set is a response to a specific set of envisioned issues. So if you don’t own a car, or if you have a superintendent who handles all your home maintenance , it’s worth taking that into account when you shop for tools, because you won’t need tools for that particular purpose.

Get Even More Gear: Best Car Tools for Vehicle Maintenance • Best Bike Tool Kits for Repairs on the Go • Best Tools 2022

Here’s an example: The 10mm socket is such a basic component of auto maintenance that some enterprising outlets sell them in bulk, largely because if you lose track of your 10mm you won’t be able to keep working. A modern bicycle, however, has nothing that requires it. Similarly, a 5mm Allen-head wrench is essential for bikes, but largely irrelevant for home maintenance.

So, should you maintain separate tool sets for different tasks? Only if you’re using them on a daily basis—otherwise, the hassle of remembering which tools are in which set will outweigh the convenience of a smaller kit. There’s also plenty of crossover between tasks: a No. 4 Phillips screwdriver can hang a painting, adjust a bicycle brake, re-attach an automotive body panel, and build a workbench.

Smaller is better, within reason

While it might seem risky to buy a minimal tool set rather than a whole bells-and-whistles setup, a smaller version can pay big dividends when you need to fix something in a hurry. A lunchbox-sized toolkit that is close at hand is a better idea than a massive multi-purpose chest that’s down in the basement behind (or under) a bunch of storage items. When choosing a tool set, try to focus on your most commonly required tasks, and then get whatever you need to accomplish those tasks efficiently.

A budget of around $100 should suffice for a tool set that can handle most tasks; above that, you’re getting higher-quality pieces that will survive more frequent use and/or additional tools such as a level or tape measure for specialty purposes.

SAE, metric, or both?

There are two measurement systems for tools: SAE, which stands for Society of Automotive Engineers, or metric. Metric sockets are measured in millimeters, while SAE sockets are measured in inches. The vast majority of modern cars and bicycles use metric bolts and will therefore require a set where the tools are measured in metric increments (e.g. 10mm, 19mm). Many home appliances, older American cars, and plumbing fixtures may need SAE, or conventional, tools (e.g. 3/8 in., 1 ½ in.).

How We Evaluated Mechanic Tool Sets

We bought, borrowed, and evaluated a wide variety of tools and tool kits for these recommendations, focusing primarily on the areas of home repair, bicycle maintenance, and automotive tasks. We also tried using a variety of tools the wrong way—could these Knipex pliers really do the job for attaching a dryer hose?—to evaluate the possibilities of using a cycling kit for home repair, and so on.

168-Piece Mechanics Set

This set, plus a few good screwdrivers, should handle a wide variety of automotive, cycling, and home maintenance tasks. The selection of sockets is extensive. Included are 12 open-end wrenches that are useful for tight spots and other places you can’t get to with a ratcheting wrench.

The supplied Allen keys should handle most cycling needs. I like the robust case, which makes it easy to keep things organized and available when you need them.

243-Piece Standard and Metric With Drawers

If you can make some room in your garage for this well-organized tool set, you’ll find that it has the majority of everyday automotive-repairs tools close at hand. With a broad selection of sockets and drivers, offset wrenches for hard-to-reach spots, and two spark plug sockets, this should get most jobs done.

Like the other Kobalt tool sets, this one uses a color stripe to identify metric and SAE sockets. The multiple-drawer chest keeps things organized and accessible.

267-Piece Tool Set

Most mechanic’s tool sets don’t include typical home-improvement items like tape measures, pliers, cutting knives, or scissors. This Kobalt set has all of these essentials and more, including perks like color-coded stripes on tools to identify metric and SAE.

It’s remarkably comprehensive, and it all fits in a soft case with a padded handle. If you’re more likely to be working in the home than in the garage, this is the one for you.

Craftsmen 262-Piece Set

This is a good modern successor to the all-purpose Sears sets that were the first line of defense for so many garage mechanics back in the day. Quality in these Craftsman offerings has definitely rebounded in the past few years, and there’s a lot of value on offer here.

Even the case shows a lot of original thinking. Do you need all these tools? Well, in most cases it won’t hurt to have them. You might want to think about choosing your most-used items from this set and put them in a tool roll or smaller box for more frequent use because the complete set is a bit weighty to carry around.

EPAuto Small Drive Set

Believe it or not, a pretty significant percentage of automotive and appliance tasks can be handled with a very small socket set—and that’s what we have here, at an even smaller cost.

It covers a wide range of metric and SAE sizes. Don’t look for any frills like narrow-angle ratchet heads or magnetic pickup sockets here. This is basic by design, but it can handle a lot of jobs.

Craftsman 88-piece USA Standard and Metric

If you truly love working on mechanical items, but your budget doesn’t extend to the American-made options from Snap-On or SK, Craftsman has a remarkable option. Its made-in-the-USA ratchet sets have gotten a lot of positive attention lately.

The price is right and so are the tools. I’m particularly fond of the 90-tooth ratchets, which are very high quality and have survived some abuse in my testing.

Gear Wrench 20-Piece Metric And SAE

GearWrench was one of the first companies to bring affordable ratcheting wrenches to the general public, and the brand's tool are still among the best.

This kit is a remarkable value for the money without shorting the user on performance. The thin open-end heads make it easy to get into tight spots, and the ratchet ends are durable. Feeling flush? Buy a couple of extra GearWrenches individually to cover the sizes that aren’t part of this set.

Workpro 100-piece Household Tool Set

This is the definition of a “just-in-case” set, with a little bit of everything that you might need for basic kitchen or home maintenance.

Workpro does something interesting here: there are several sockets included, but you’ll turn them with a screw handle, not a traditional ratchet. If you find yourself using those sockets more than a few times, consider it a sign that you should supplant this basic kit with a proper ratchet-and-socket set.

Our Expert Jack Baruth Hits the Nail on the Head With These Tips on How to Buy Your Next Set of Mechanic Tools.

What are the biggest differences between a home tool kit and an auto tool kit?

Unless you own a Morgan sports car with an ash frame, you won't be doing any woodworking when you fix your car, but homeowners may need specific tools for cutting, drilling, and joining wood. Home tool kits are also more likely to substitute a single adjustable wrench for a full range for proper open-end wrenches— and that's fine.

How can I prolong the life of my tool kit—and how long can I expect one to last?

A good tool kit should outlast the owner. Keep it clean, dry, and spray it down lightly (LIGHTLY!) with WD-40. That's not to lubricate the tools. It's to prevent rust.

Should I be looking for tools with a lifetime warranty or that meet ASME or other standards?

Most homeowners won't use or break their tools often enough to worry about that. If you're working on cars or homes every day, you should be shopping a different set of vendors, such as Snap-On. If I splurge on a really expensive tool set, will it have all the tools I need?

There’s only one way to know for sure: measure everything you’re going to ever have to fix, then check those measurements against the tool set. In practice, however, the larger the tool set is, the less likely that you’ll be out of luck in this area. The most common error: not having pliers or pipe wrenches in your “household” set.

Is there an advantage to buying a multi-tool set versus getting tools one at a time as I need them?

Absolutely. Having a tool you don’t use just means you’re wasting storage space, but needing a tool you don’t have means you have some inconvenience ahead of you. It’s also almost always cheaper to buy tools in a larger set.

Anything to avoid when buying one of these sets?

Always consider “Combination” or “Adjustable” wrenches to be an absolute last resort because they tend to round off bolts and nuts. It’s always better to choose a set with specifically sized wrenches and sockets. If you’re short on space, try buying a larger tool set, figuring out what specific items you need, and donating the rest to someone who needs tools.

More for You

The health condition many women are developing after COVID

7 CDs You Probably Owned, Threw Out and Now Are Worth Bank

Trump’s defense secretary called him ‘a madman in a circular room screaming’, new book reveals

I Make This Ground Beef Dinner for My Family When I’m Totally Exhausted

Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together

The Simple Detail That Can Make Your Home Feel Bigger, According To David Bromstad

‘I gave up a job that I loved passionately’: My husband secretly set up a trust that includes our home and his investments. What should I do?

Google’s Leaked Spreadsheet Reveals Employee Salaries

5 Items From the 1990s That Are Worth a Lot of Money

Renewed and Canceled TV Shows 2024 Guide

Yes, You Can Ripen an Avocado in 10 Minutes Flat

Your resting heart rate is a key sign of fitness and longevity. Improve it with 2 types of workouts.

See stunning reconstruction of ancient Egyptian mummy that languished at an Australian high school for a century

‘Lord of the Rings: The Hunt for Gollum’ in development with Andy Serkis to direct and star

Judge Engoron Faces Questions After Lawyer Says He Advised on Trump Case

Harrison Phillips acknowledges 'huge loss' in Vikings' leadership

The 11 Smells That Squirrels and Chipmunks Hate

20 Ways You’re Getting Ripped Off in America—And How to Avoid Them

Contractor sprays paint in faces of Gaza college protesters while covering up a pro-Palestine mural

Strawberry Bread

• Join Insider

Follow This Old House online:

Site search, best tool sets of 2024 (our top picks).

Whether you’re hanging a picture frame in your new home, planting flowers for the spring season, or working on your car, these tool kits will help make your life easier. Keep reading to learn about the best tool sets available on Amazon and your local home center.

We may be compensated if you purchase through links on our website. Our Reviews Team is committed to delivering honest, objective, and independent reviews on home products and services.

Tool sets come in all shapes and sizes, with some including standard hand tools and others including tools specific to certain projects like woodworking and gardening. To help you find the right kit for your home improvement projects, we took a deep dive into the best tool sets on the market today.

Here are our top recommendations.

Top 11 Tool Sets

Dewalt mechanics tool set.

• DEWALT Combo Kit

CRAFTSMAN Mechanics Tool Set

Dewalt cordless drill combo kit.

• CRAFTSMAN V20 Cordless Drill Combo Kit
• Apollo Tools DT9706 Original 39-Piece General Repair Hand Tool Set

Cartman 148-Piece Tool Set

Workpro 408-piece mechanics tool set, beyond by black+decker home tool kit, amazon basics 65 piece home basic repair tool kit, jumphigh garden tools set, compare top tool sets.

Prices taken at time of publishing.

• $205.11 at Amazon

What Customers Are Saying

We found that this tool set for mechanics received overwhelmingly positive feedback from customers who said that the tools were well-made, well-priced, and held up to demanding tasks in the garage and around their homes. They also liked the variety of tools included in the set. Customers’ primary critical feedback about the tool set was in its flimsy plastic blow mold case, which made some of the sockets difficult to remove.

DEWALT Combo Power Tool Kit

• $310.78 at Amazon

The majority of customers we found who reviewed this combination power tool kit from DEWALT gave the product a four or five-star review, highlighting the set’s versatility, power, battery life, and overall utility in and around the home. Reviews with three stars or less criticized the quality of the circular saw, which bogged down for certain users during otherwise routine cuts.

• $155.76 at Amazon

Though this tool set is designed for mechanics, our team noted that homeowners and customers of all kinds found use in each of the 135 included pieces. Positively, they liked the solid feel of the tools and CRAFTSMAN’s lifetime warranty. Negatively, customers were missing various pieces of the 135-piece set, and the socket extension tool broke during the first use for one customer.

• $831.34 at Amazon

Despite the high price tag of this comprehensive power tool set, we noted that satisfied customers said that the do-it-all value of the toolset justified its cost. They also highlighted the tool set’s 20-volt lithium-ion battery system, which made charging and powering each tool fast and easy. Alternatively, select customers thought that the included tools in the set were outdated compared to current models from DEWALT, detracting from the set’s overall value.

CRAFTSMAN Cordless Drill Combo Kit

• $129 at Amazon

We learned that happy customers often remarked on the convenience of having an impact driver and power drill in one kit. Highlighted in numerous 4- and 5-star reviews were the combo kit’s carrying bag, rapid charging system, and overall quality of the power tools. Conversely, some customers felt that the tools weren’t fit for heavy-duty use and felt too flimsy.

Apollo Tools 39-Piece Hand Tool Set

• $23.07 at Amazon

Overall, satisfied customers said that this simple but reasonably priced hand tool set came with durable tools that stood up to everyday use over several months or years. They included that the tool set was the perfect starter kit for small jobs or new homeowners who wanted to tackle basic repairs around the home. Critically, we did see some customers said that the tools felt cheap, and others said that the size of the tools was smaller than they expected.

• $34.99 at Amazon

Our research showed that satisfied users of this 148-piece tool kit stated that the set was borderline overkill for general household repairs but that the variety of tools lent itself to being prepared for nearly any fix around the home. Complaints about the tool set centered around its case, which customers said was cheap, flimsy, and wouldn’t snap closed easily.

• $209.99 at Amazon

Customers we noted who purchased and used this comprehensive mechanics tool set were primarily pleased with the durability and overall quality of the tools, leading to many four and five-star reviews. Those who weren’t totally satisfied with the set said that the dividers inside the toolbox felt like a waste of space and that the quality of the tools themselves was sub-par.

• $90 at Amazon

According to our research, customers who left positive feedback for this tool set were impressed with its versatility and high number of tools included. Others were happy that came with a heavy-duty canvas bag for easy storage. However, there were others who found that this set’s drill lacked the power level for anything other than small household tasks, while some said that the included attachments were not durable and made with cheap materials.

• $35 at Amazon

Customers who purchased and reviewed this set liked that it had a convenient carrying bag and featured all of the basic tools you would need for around-the-house projects. Others were impressed with its excellent value, noting its low price for the number of tools it includes. On the other hand, others felt this set didn’t feature high-quality tools, and others found it difficult to keep all of the tools organized.

• $36.99 at Amazon

Compared to other garden tool sets online, our team saw that happy customers said these tools were more decorative and added a fun visual flair to their gardening experience. Some customers who had issues with the set followed up and reported that the manufacturer offered great customer service. Critically, some users wished that the tools were slightly higher quality, given the price of the tool set.

Types of Tool Sets

Most people think of hand tools when they think of a tool kit, but you can also purchase sets designed for specific tasks, like gardening, woodworking, or mechanical work.

Hand tool sets come with essential tools like hammers and screwdrivers that you’ll need for projects around the home. Every homeowner should have at least one of these sets so that they don’t have to run to the store the next time they need to do a simple home repair.

Mechanic Tools

Mechanic tool kits usually consist of socket wrenches and regular wrenches of different sizes. Occasionally, you’ll find a mechanics tool set that also includes standard hand tools for a comprehensive two-in-one kit.

Power Tools

A set of power tools is useful for people who use drills, saws, and drivers frequently. The tools in these kits tend to be cordless, which limits their power, but it makes them more portable so that you can use them anywhere around the home.

Gardening Tools

This type of tool set doesn’t overlap with any of the projects you would complete with the previous sets, but it gives you various tools to help you tend to your garden.

Factors To Consider Before Buying a Tool Set

Our team put together this guide to help you decide on a tool set based on your experience level, the tool’s intended use, and the amount of storage space you have.

Experience Level

If you’re new to DIY projects, you may only need a tool kit with standard hand tools, like hammers and screwdrivers. If you’re more experienced and perform routine home improvement tasks, you may want a more comprehensive tool kit to supplement your basic tools at home.

Intended Use

If you plan on using your tool kit for specific home improvement projects, make sure that the kit has the right tools to help you accomplish those projects. For example, if you’re hanging a picture frame, you’ll probably want a tape measure to find the wall’s center point, a hammer to nail a fastener into the wall, and a leveler to ensure the picture is straight.

Storage Space

Tool kits don’t usually take up a lot of space, but if you have limited storage space in your garage or closet, look for a kit that’s smaller in size. Keep in mind that a smaller tool kit will limit the selection of tools that come with it.

Tool Set FAQ

What tools are found in every basic hand tool kit.

Most basic tool kits will include the following items:

• Adjustable wrenches
• Allen wrenches
• Combination wrenches
• Ratchet wrenches
• Screwdrivers
• Socket adapters and extensions
• Tape measure

Should I buy a tool kit from a well-known company?

Tool kits from well-known manufacturers, such as DEWALT or CRAFTSMAN, usually offer high-quality tools that last a long time. We included a mix of tool manufacturers in this review, but we made sure that the more complex woodworking tool sets and tools for mechanical work were from well-known companies like DEWALT and CRAFTSMAN.

How We Selected the Best Tool Sets

To provide our readers with the best recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.

Initial Research : Our research process began by generating a list of options with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers. 

Expert Insights : Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.

Final Product Selection : We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued sets. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.

Why You Can Trust Us

This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. 

Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published numerous tool reviews, from cordless drills and impact drivers to tape measures and laser levels.

Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.

Questions or Comments?

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews Team at [email protected] .

Next Up In Tools

• Our 7 Best Tool Brand Picks (2024)
• Tool Talk: The Casts’ New Tool Favorites
• Our 5 Best Utility Knife Picks (2024)
• Our 5 Best Drywall Anchor Picks (2024)
• What to Expect at the National Hardware Show (2024)
• How to Select and Use Shop Vacuums

Sign up for the Newsletter

Get the latest This Old House news, trusted tips, tricks, and DIY Smarts projects from our experts–straight to your inbox.

• Login/Register
• Free Newsletters

Construction News

Thu May 09 2024

• International

Tunnelling set to start for Moscow metro

29 may 12 assembly of a herrenknecht tunnel boring machine (tbm) is almost complete ready for tunnelling between the lermontovsky prospekt and vykhino subway stations in moscow..

Specialists with SK Most are completing assembly the TBM assembly at Lermontovsky Prospekt station from where it will drive the left inter-station tunnel.

The parts of the shield were delivered from Germany. One of the major parts, the rotor designed for soil cutting and grinding, was assembled on last week. The rotor cutting diameter is 6.15m, the rotor weight is 57t and the entire machine weighs 508t.

Liebherr LTM 1500 and Liebherr LTM 1220 lifting cranes were used for rotor assembly.

The tunnelling is to start in June, and 1,800m of tunnel will have to be driven from Lermontovsky Prospekt station to Vykhino station. Installation of reinforced concrete lining will follow tunnelling.

Got a story? Email [email protected]

Click here to view latest construction news »

• 1800-2121-225
• [email protected]

• Moscow Metro Tour

Activity Details

- moscow tour packages – russian fairy tale tour 6 night / 7 days, activity overview.

• Description
• The Moscow Metro is among the biggest and thickest metro networks in the world.
• This makes it easier for people to travel quickly in Moscow.
• The Moscow Metro is made up of 12 lines and 200 stations, and it is around 333 kilometers long.

Activity Important

• Important to know
• Certified English speaking local guide.
• Hotel/port pickup and drop.
• Tips and personal expenses.
• Instant package confirmation at the time of booking.
• This package does not qualify for any refund policy.
• You will need to present either a paper or an electronic voucher for this activity.

Other activities in Russia

Senate Square Tour

Red Square Tour

Moscow Tour

For tour package: moscow metro tour.

Newsletter Sign Up Sign up and Get Our Amazing Offers

Tackle DIY Projects With 31% Off This Compact DeWalt 12V Cordless Drill and Bit Set at Lowe's

The 21-piece drill bit set is an excellent general-purpose option for drilling in wood, metal, and plastic.

Gear-obsessed editors choose every product we review. We may earn commission if you buy from a link. Why Trust Us?

The sale saves you $57 and includes everything you need to tackle projects around the house, including the 12-volt drill, two batteries, a charger, and a 21-piece titanium drill bit set (sizes 1/16-inch to ½-inch) stored in a convenient case for easy bit selection. The bits feature a web taper for increased strength and a pilot point tip for faster, cleaner drilling. DeWalt says the drill bits are ideal for drilling in wood, metal, and plastic.

This DeWalt cordless drill features a brushless motor , which offers more power and a longer lifespan than traditional brushed motors. It also has a convenient ⅜-inch ratcheting chuck that allows for quick and easy one-handed bit changes. Another helpful feature is the 15-position clutch, which allows you to easily select the right amount of torque for the job. It gives you greater precision when you need a light touch for driving a screw a few turns or more power to sink it securely.

The drill also boasts a built-in LED light located near the bottom that improves visibility in dimly lit work areas. Its compact and lightweight design allows for easier handling and maneuverability in tight spaces. Finally, the ergonomic handle provides a comfortable and secure grip, reducing hand fatigue during extended use.

Your purchase comes with two 2.0 amp-hour batteries and a charger, giving you what you need to tackle DIY projects around your home without interruption. As a bonus, the 12-volt batteries are compatible with other products in DeWalt’s 12-volt Max line , so you can expand your tool collection in the future without needing new batteries.

Brandon Russell is a freelance writer covering gear and technology. He started his journey as a news writer at a small newspaper and later began reviewing smartphones, movies, and video games. In his free time, he enjoys the slower, more intentional experience of using a 35mm film camera and making short videos about movies he grew up watching.

.css-cuqpxl:before{padding-right:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;} Best Product Reviews of 2024 .css-xtujxj:before{padding-left:0.3125rem;content:'//';display:inline;}

Save 45% on This Greenworks Chainsaw at Amazon

This EcoFlow Solar Generator Is 43% Off at Amazon

The Best Smokeless Fire Pits for Backyard Bonfires

The Best Doorbell Cameras for Surveillance

The Best Countertop Ice Makers of 2024

The Best Indoor Security Cameras for Peace of Mind

Save 56% on This DeWalt Oscillating Tool at Amazon

The 4 Best Smart Bird Feeders for Your Backyard

6 Riding Lawn Mowers to Shape up Your Yard

The Best Outdoor Security Cameras for Your Home

The 8 Best Grow Lights for Indoor Plants

Essential Elektrostal

Elektrostal Is Great For

Eat & drink.