Best Overall
CDI Torque Products ½" 30-250 ft-lbs Torque Wrench
Best Bang for the Buck
Capri Tools ¼" 30-150 in-lbs Industrial Torque Wrench
Best High-Tech
Gearwrench ½" 25-250 ft-lbs Electronic Torque Wrench
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Torque wrenches are designed to help user tighten up fasteners with a level of precision vital for matching a manufacturer ’s torque specs . We tested several highly rated type of torque wrenches on nuts and bolts in our own garage , and we found a darling : theCDI Torque Products ½ ” 30 - 250 ft - lbs Torque Wrench , which stand out for its simplicity of use and comprehensive torque pressure range .
We adjudicate out a miscellany of torque wrenches , from little one made for bicycles to prominent ones capable of tighten heavy - obligation fastening on construction equipment . Keep reading to learn what to deal when applying exact torque to a specific fixing , and find out how the following tools realize a spot on this card of the best torsion wrenches .
How We Tested the Best Torque Wrenches
square off which torque wrenches we require to test was square . We consider the brand to an extent — after all , DeWalt , Precision Instruments , and CDI ( now owned by Snap - on ) are highly respected for their DIY and professional pecker . We also consider someStanley sets , but in the end , we did n’t screen any . We focused on choosing a diverse range of torque wrenches that would fit a variety of user and budgets .
In our hands - on examination , we tightened nuts and other fasteners on gondola tires , locomotive engine components , motorcycle , wheel , and heavy equipment . We used two method acting to check up on truth : First , we used a simple torsion arranger , a gauged tool that attaches to a wrench or socket to measure torque insistence . ( In general , torsion adapters are not as precise as calibrated torsion twist , but they offer a canonic reading . ) We then compared two different torsion wrench go under to the exact want torque scope to see if both wrenches produced matching results on the same fixing .
We also noted each tool ’s build quality , ergonomics , and ease of selecting the right torque . We awarded point free-base on a rubric , and after testing , we averaged the points to influence our best overall pick and to categorize the other models in our batting order of the honorable torsion wrench .
Our Top Picks
The following torque wrenches are made for dissimilar purposes . Some are summary and easy to tuck into a wheel bag , while others are quite with child and well suitable to modify truck tires or for consumption as an self-propelling torsion wrench . torsion wrench come in a orbit of size and price full point , and we suspect at least one of the chase could be a beneficial couple for your pauperization .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use4.5/5 ; Accuracy5/5 ; Build Quality4.5/5 ; Value4.8/5
If you ’re looking for a salutary mechanical torque pull with a high ambit of torque setting , check out CDI ’s ½-inch torsion wrench . It boasts an telling 30- to 250 - metrical foot - Irish punt stove , and we liked that it figures torque in both foot - dog pound and Newton meters .
The CDI pull passed our accuracy exam — both the relative test and with the torsion adapter — but that ’s not unusual . Torque wrenches typically arrive highly graduated and remain calibrated unless damaged or misused .
We used the CDI wrench to tighten Lugh crank , suspension organisation holdfast ( prance ) , and some structural steel deadbolt on a sideslip hint bucket . We adjusted the torsion pressure sensation for the first two using the foot - pound increments on the putz . The morphological bolt called for force per unit area in Newton meters ( Nm ) , so we turn the tool over and used the Nm ordered series to pick out the insistency .
The ratcheting question is a nice feature . It ratchets in both focus , but we matt-up as though the grip was slimly undersized given the wrench ’s high-pitched - pressure range . Someone with large hands might not be able to get a firm enough grip when using the wrench at high - torque scene , as this requires a substantial amount of physical force .
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
This quality torque wrench has an truth evaluation of ±4 percent , making it a good selection for tightening low- and high - torque fasteners .
Get the CDI torque twist atAmazon .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use4/5 ; Accuracy5/5 ; Build Quality4.8/5 ; Value5/5
Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
You do n’t have to drop a luck to get a right torque wrench for tightening fasteners . Capri Tools offers this small torsion wrench at an affordable Leontyne Price . We tested this spanner on various low - torsion fastener , including oil goat god bolt , small contraption fixing , and some HVAC building block screws .
This ¼-inch take thick torque wrench weighs only 1.35 pounds and measures just over 8 inches long . conform the desired torsion mount was simple : As with most micrometer gauge wrenches , we just rotated the collar to ready the torque . The phone number on the handle are unclouded and well-situated to see , and the tool is balanced , so it feel proficient in the paw . It offers smooth ratchet down action , as well .
The Capri was point on in our accuracy tests , and we were impressed with its performance . The wrench have fantabulous build quality see its budget - favorable damage , and we would n’t hesitate to advocate it to professional who need a durable lower - torque tool . The heavy - obligation hard case it come in is a great way to stack away and transport the dick safely .
Get the Capri Tools torque twist atAmazon .
Our Ratings : Ease of Use4.3/5 ; Accuracy5/5 ; Build Quality4.5/5 ; Value4/5
As you approach the desired torque circumstance , Gearwrench ’s electronic torque twist warns you with its vibrating handle , beeping sound , and a solid LED light indicant so that you’re able to stop before you overtighten the fastener . We love the vibration and the LED indicant , but the beeping sound was on the muted side — half the prison term , we did n’t hear it at all .
Thisdigital wrenchcan measure torque in both clockwise and contraclockwise direction . We test it on lobworm nuts and morphologic bolts . The ergonomic grip allow us to get a serious grip when tightening mellow - torque fastening , but we find it a little unmanageable in tight space .
The twist ’s digital video display replaces the traditional scale , and we were able-bodied to set the torque level using the button on the handle . The Gearwrench has an impressive torque range of 25 to 250 foot - pound , and it execute well in our truth tests . It come with a heavy - duty storage case . On the downside , it does n’t amount with the two required AAA shelling , so design to buy them severally .
Get the Gearwrench torque pull atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Best Split-Beam
Precision Instruments ½" Split-Beam Click Wrench
Our military rank : Ease of Use5/5 ; Accuracy5/5 ; Build Quality4.5/5 ; Value4/5
Split - beam torsion wrench are bonk for consistent accuracy , durability , and less frequent standardisation essential . In our hired man - on psychometric test , the Precision Instruments ’ ½-inch split - beam wrench exit with flying colors in several areas . It excelled in our accuracy test , and we were impressed with its build caliber .
We adjust the torque configurations via a secure dial on the front of the handle . The animal foot - pound numerals are black on a bloodless background , and we had no trouble seeing how much torque we were applying . A flip - down guard keeps the dial from being accidentally deepen to a unlike setting during use .
This ½-inch drive angle torque wrench has a nonslip grip and a tilt head , which makes it easier to get at fixing in restrict area . We test this professional torsion twist on car and hand truck lug nuts and industrial fastener on grammatical construction equipment . The only thing we did n’t give care for was the rectangular shape of the grasp , which is not quite as comfortable as a round grip .
Get the Precision Instruments torque wrench atThe Home Depot .
Best Digital
DeWalt ½" 50-250 ft-lbs Digital Torque Wrench
Our Ratings : Ease of Use4.5/5 ; Accuracy4.8/5 ; Build Quality4.5/5 ; Value4.8/5
This torque wrench is extremely versatile because it can measure torque in foot - pounds , inch - pounds , and Newton beat . The DeWalt ½-inch private road torsion wrench has a nice digital readout that we were capable to see clearly , even in sun . Torque pressure was prosperous to pick out with up / down button , but the buttons are a bit on the small side , which could pose a job for someone using the tool while endure glove .
The tool ’s torsion range is 50 to 250 pes - pounds , and it ’s a big boy . It weighs 5.64 pounds and mensurate 28.8 inches long , draw it the big pull we test . We really liked the ergonomic nonslip grip , as it allow us to get a firm grip , which is vital when tighten gamey - torque fasteners . We tested it on railcar and truck lug nuts and cloggy - obligation fasteners on structure equipment .
Like most DeWalt tools , the physique quality is upright , but at this length , we found ourselves like the tool was a digital angle torque pull to make it simpler to access fixing in tight post . It issue forth with a overnice lawsuit with a dense foam cutout to protect the tool in case it ’s dropped . While DeWalt does n’t lean the wrench ’s accuracy stove , it easily passed our truth mental test .
Get the DeWalt torsion wrench atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Best for Bikes
Pro Bike Tool ¼" 2-20 Nm Torque Wrench Set
Our paygrade : Ease of Use4.5/5 ; Accuracy5/5 ; Build Quality4.8/5 ; Value5/5
If you ’re looking for a measured torque spanner for bicycle maintenance and fix , attend no further than the Pro Bike Tool ¼-inch torsion wrench specify . It number with an assortment of 11 socket ( hexagon and Torx ) and a rugged fount for storing them all .
We try this torsion wrench on our wheel to tighten up posterior - post clinch bolts , bow bolt , and pedal fasteners , but it ’s more than just a bike tool . We also test it for constrain fasteners on a lawn mower and our HVAC unit . With a mountain range of 2 to 20 Nm , this abject - torque wrench is perfect for minor fasteners .
Photo: Amazon
The Pro Bike pull issue an audible pawl every meter we reached the desired torque pressure for a fastener . It was very easy to use , and it passed our accuracy test with fly color . The case is belittled enough to slip into a bike bag for use on the route . It does n’t feature in - pounds , but many cycle manufacturer utilise metric mensuration for their fasteners , so that should n’t be a trouble . We would have like a nonslip grip , but overall , this set contain everything necessitate to make straightaway cycle repairs .
Get the Pro Bike Tool torsion wrench atAmazon .
Jump to Our Top Picks
What to Consider When Choosing a Torque Wrench
Before buy a torque wrench to add to yourhome peter kit , consider these authoritative product characteristics and how they apply to the torque wrench you need .
Accuracy
Accuracy is always an important consideration when it come to a torque wrench . fortuitously , torsion twist come precalibrated and are often companion by a certification identity card that confirms that the wrench was tested immediately before packing .
Typically ( though not always ) , a torque wrench manufacturer will say the shaft ’s measured accuracy based on the calibration test . This calibration level generally has a ±4 percent truth rating , so if you regain a twist with a smaller accuracy reach ( e.g. , ±3 percent truth ) , you get laid you have a superior product .
Some of the newer torque wrenches are bidirectional , which can tighten right - threaded or left-hand - threaded holdfast . However , they are not contrive to loosen fixing , and using them to loosen fasteners can lead in harm or the need to have the dick professionally recalibrated . If the wrench is bidirectional ( some we tested were ) , accuracy will be name as something like “ ±3 CW , ±4 CCW . ”
Photo: Amazon
Drive Size
The torque wrench ’s drive size depict the bits you’re able to utilize to constrain nut and other fasteners . The standard size include ¼ inch , ⅜ inch , ½ column inch , ¾ inch , and 1 inch , though you wo n’t be working with anything above a ½-inch drive for most applications .
Range
The reach of a torque wrench can circumscribe the types of jobs it can accommodate , so how much torque a twist provide is very crucial . On average , a torque pull with a range that falls below 80 foot - pounds may be ineffectual for some railroad car torque wrench applications . However , a lower torsion range is ideal for smaller chore , like working on a lawn mower or bicycle .
Many torque wrenches have a range that spans up to 150 understructure - pounds , which is more than enough to tighten lug nuts on your car . However , some torque twist have a much spacious torsion range , with some achieve 1,000 foot - pound of force . regrettably , tightening high - torque fasteners ask physical strength and sometimes the use of torsion multipliers for tot up leverage .
Scale Readability
Before picking up a new torque wrench , be sure to take a type with a scale that you are comfortable reading so that you do not constantly struggle to discern the current torsion level .
Ratcheting
Most torque wrenches offerratcheting . The ratcheting oral sex declare oneself convenience and speed when tightening fasteners because the drug user can enforce torsion continuously without the need to reposition the wrench .
Storage
Even the good torque wrench can require recalibration if not used correctly or subjected to affect , such as being dropped on the priming coat or knocked against other tools .
Due to this sensitivity , it is a dependable idea to regain a Cartesian product with a box or another protective storage container that can keep your torsion twist safe from the other tool in your workshop and any sequent contact . You may also want to retrieve a torque wrench storage container with midland cushioning and a lockable clasp for extra shelter and security .
Grip
When shopping for a new torque wrench , it is important to consider the hold ’s grip . Due to the torque wrench ’s sensibility , attend for a handle you may spellbind without slipping so that you may quick kibosh the motion of the pull treat when you reach the desire level of torque — this will serve prevent overtightening .
You will also desire a well-fixed , ergonomic hold to aid you work longer without worry about hand fatigue . Most torsion wrench come with a rubber plastic grip or a sword hold with a raised grip . Go with the gumshoe grip for heightened consolation or the metallic element grip for additional friction and control .
Types of Torque Wrenches
There are manytypes of torque wrenches , each offering unequalled features to be cognisant of before pick out a new tool . Torque twist type let in beam , deflecting beam of light , split - light beam , fall away , click , digital , similar capitulum , and micrometer .
Beam
A regular beam torque wrench does n’t bank on anything except the flex of an internal shaft to valuate the level of torque being exerted on the nut . This wrench stylus indicates the amount of torque ( spin violence ) being applied . This measurement is lead when you apply force to tighten up a fastening ; the ray flexes just slightly , and a pointer moves along a scurf to measure the pressure you ’re applying . Wrenches of this type are typically inexpensive and do not require frequent calibration or maintenance .
Deflecting Beam
A distract beam torque pull utilise a rationale interchangeable to that of a regular beam torque wrench , except a forfend beam wrench has a more sophisticated mechanism that suggest torsion without using a separate needle as a regular beam does . While the two eccentric are exchangeable , as both flex or “ deflect , ” the regular beam type uses a acerate leaf that locomote along a scale to evaluate torque , while a deflect spanner measures the actual arcdegree of flex ( deflection ) of the tool ’s intragroup beam . forefend torsion wrench are typically more expensive and moot more accurate .
Split Beam
The split - beam torsion wrench looks and functions like a ward off irradiation wrench . It use two beam : The 2nd light beam runs alongside the first and indicates the torque pressure on a dial located on the grip .
With this torque wrench style , you could commonly ready the torque limit , so you wo n’t have to worry about overtightening . It may also apply a “ click ” strait ( as with click - vogue torsion wrenches ) to suggest when you have extend to the desire torque level . However , that feature is not standard for all split - beam torsion wrench .
Slip
A slip - style torsion wrench is one of the least popular designs for professionals in the self-propelled industriousness . It does not have a weighing machine or gage , so you may not monitor the torsion exerted with this case of wrench . You may have a hard clock time finding a toilsome - responsibility version of a slip wrench that bring out the same level of torque as a unconstipated click torque wrench .
On the top , a case torque twist reduces the danger of overtightening because the driveway disengages when the hope torque is make . Still , it typically has a limited torque range , stimulate it inapplicable for many applications .
Click
Click - mode torque wrenches are the most popular character . This flair of wrench can be set to a specific torque degree by twist the base of the handle to cope with up with the hope context on the handle . It ’s low-cost and precise , though not as durable as a beam torsion wrench .
A click torque twist gets its name from the hearable dog the wrench emits when it reaches the desire torque level . However , the click is only an index , and most click - dash torsion twist do not prevent overtightening the fasteners .
Digital
Digital torque spanner are typically the most expensive options . They come precalibrated with precise readings displayed on a digital screen . When the desired torque grade is contact , a digital wrench will typically notify you with a buzz , beep , vibration , light , or some compounding of these alarm to prevent you from overtightening the holdfast . However , this case of electric torque wrench requires battery , and you may need to return it to zero before storing it to forestall it from require calibration .
Interchangeable Head
The interchangeable - head torque wrench is not a completely different type of wrench . This click - panache torque spanner accommodates various heads so that you’re able to complete various tasks with an mixed bag of fasteners and fastener size . Like the regular click torque wrench , this trend of twist also let out a gimcrack click sound to point when it has reached a set torque stage .
Micrometer
Micrometers are another subclass of the click torsion pull . They operate like even click torque wrenches but have both ahead and reverse capableness . This style also commonly comes with a quick - release induction that allows you to set , adjust , and take the torque wrench without difficultness . Due to the extra features , the micron torque wrench is more expensive than a received click torsion wrench .
Tips for Using a Torque Wrench
A torque twist is a specialized tool used for one main design : tightening fasteners like bollock and bolt . Care should be taken whenusing a torsion wrenchto forfend hard impingement , like shed it on the solid ground . Even when it is in storage , dangle it on the ground can lead in having to recalibrate the tool .
Before lay in a torque spanner , adapt it to its low press setting . This helps keep the machine adequately calibrated when it is not in use and keeps it play longer .
FAQs
Looking to expand your precisionhand tool collection ? Consider these helpful answer to a few of the most common questions about torque wrenches .
A torsion wrench is a specialized tightening tool commonly used to tighten fasteners to the precise pressure degree recommended by the fastener ’s manufacturer . Torque wrenches accomplish this by exertingrotational forceon the fixing . Most are sold as stand - alone tools , but some torsion twist sets are sold with suitable socket .
you may practice a torsion wrench to fasten nut but never to loosen them . If the twist you are using is a type that necessitate the torque set , then put the torque using the physical telephone dial on the handle or the digital keypad . send the driving flake on the nut or bolt and constrain it until you gain the appropriate torsion , which will be indicated differently for each type of torque twist .
Photo: Amazon
torsion twist are almost always calibrated by a professional who uses specialized equipment , such as a torque calibration machine , to ensure accuracy .
A foot - pound is a unit of measurement that represents the amount of rotational force apply to an object . The mensuration is specify as the strength of 1 Sudanese pound give from a 1 - human foot aloofness from the fastening ’s pivot detail . All wrench , include pipe spanner andstrap wrenches , exert rotational force .
Yes , you could . If you require to use a human foot - quid torsion pull for column inch - pounds , just multiply the spanner ’s foot - pound by 12 to convert it to inch - Sudanese pound .
Photo: The Home Depot
Meet the Tester
Glenda Taylor is a Cartesian product tester and writer specializing in the construction , remodeling , and real estate industries . She and her hubby own a ecumenical contracting troupe , and Taylor is experienced in both residential and commercial construction applications . She test a wide range of tycoon tools as well as other home improvement , household , and lawn - and - garden products .
Additional research provide by Timothy Dale .
This Is the Year for a Kitchen Renovation
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Whether you ’re selling or staying , everyone can get something out of a kitchen update . Learn why we consider this renovation the Most Valuable Project of 2025 and how to stay on budget .
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Photo: Glenda Taylor for Bob Vila
