Best Overall
Milwaukee ⅜" Drive 56-Piece Ratchet & Socket Set
Best Bang for the Buck
WorkPro 39-Piece Drive Socket Wrench Set
Upgrade Pick
Sunex Tools 3580 ⅜" Drive Master Impact Socket Set
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Socket sets allow you to tighten and loosen fastener with a speeding and simpleness that is n’t possible with traditional wrenches , making them essential tools for automotive or sustentation oeuvre . But select the best set of socket wrenches can be unmanageable since they alter in price and quality . To avail guide your selection , we reached out to an expert for their insights into what makes a expert socket wrench and put seven top socket sets through demanding hand - on testing .
found on our research and tests , we choose theMilwaukee ⅜ ” Drive 56 - Piece Ratchet & Socket Setas the good overall socket set for its quality construction and fantabulous versatility . However , there was a slew to like about the rest of the sets that made our list , which present some of the toptoolsavailable in their several category . Whether you ’re a DIYer or a professional person in the home or self-propelling outer space , we suffer behind the products below as some of the good socket sets available .
Our Top Picks
The top - rated mathematical product below are some of the serious socket exercise set on the securities industry free-base on quality , price , repute , and our hands - on test . Any of these socket bent would be an splendid accession to your automotive service department or shop .
One of the best reasons to put in a socket tool is to be able to perform canonical self-propelling stamping ground at home . Since this band from Milwaukee comes with both 8 - inch and 12 - inch - long ⅜-inch socket wrenches , it offers splendid versatility for that undertaking and others . The longer pull provide more torque for stubborn bolt while the shortsighted one will gibe easy into tighter spaces . Multiple extension bars and a universal joint sum up extra help for user need access to hard - to - gain trying on .
While this circle is n’t peculiarly big , it includes the size you ’ll use most often . There are 13 shallow Society of Automotive Engineers ( SAE ) socket , 11 deep SAE sockets , 14 shallow metric socket , and 14 thick metric socket . The socket all have a four - sided condition versus a round one , which prevents them from rolling forth and allows you to utilize them with a transitional monkey wrench or crescent spanner to make more torque . We also wish that the handle is oblong , which make the ratchets comfortable to spellbind even when applying a hatful of force . The case even has a nice design , as it includes a removable tray that made it well-off to keep the entire set in good order beside us during examination .
Read our full review : Milwaukee ⅜ ” Drive 56 - Piece Ratchet & Socket Set
What our quizzer says:“We expect quality with any Milwaukee putz , and this socket set did n’t disappoint . The sockets experience thick and backbreaking than less expensive hardening . We also like that the ratchets have 90 teeth , which makes kibosh points much nearer together than many other option , allowing us to loosen bolts even when there ’s not much room to sour the rachet hold . ”—Tony Carrick , Product Reviews tester and author
Get the Milwaukee socket coiffe atAmazon , Ace Hardware , The Home Depot , Walmart , orNorthern Tool + Equipment .
This 39 - piece socket dress from WorkPro include just enough sizes to deal most odd jobs around the house , make it ideal for anyone who is n’t looking for a set to work on cars but might need that functionality at times . The size selection is limit to mainly little sockets , with 28 ¼-inch sockets ( 15 SAE and 13 metrical ) and six ⅜-inch socket ( three SAE and three metric ) . There ’s also a 3 - column inch extension legal profession , a spin disk for quickly removing nuts that have already been loosened , and a socket spinner mold like a screwdriver but that adapt to socket . All tools have a rust - resistive chrome finish and fit neatly into the let in type .
When testing , we care the inflexible feel and do by duration of the ⅜-inch ratch . However , the sockets in this budget - well-disposed set are notably lighter with thinner walls than other full sets we test . Though they belike would n’t survive intense pressure , they ’re definitely strong enough to do by the lighter - duty caper . They held up just o.k. when working the ratchet to labor the bolt into Sir Henry Joseph Wood in our lag bolt test .
Get the WorkPro socket do atAmazonorWorkPro .
Photo: Tony Carrick
Sunex 3580 ⅜" Drive Master Impact Socket Set
You ’d be hard - pressed to find a more various collection of ⅜-inch ride sockets than this set from Sunex . The 80 - while kit includes 23 SAE sockets separate into eight stock sockets , six deep socket , and nine swivel - joint sockets . It also has 34 metric socket with 12 monetary standard , 12 cryptical , and 10 general sockets in the most common size . There are also nine Torx bit and nine external Torx sockets , making this setup ideal for anyone working on motorcycles or cars that use this dash style , such as those from BMW , Mercedes , and Ford .
Like other shock driver set , this Sunex Drive Master socket readiness is made from bad Mo with a black - oxide finish , making it stronger and better able-bodied to withstand the torsion created by an impact driver than the stock bright chrome sword of other socket stage set . Additionally , the pieces in this extractor socket stage set are noticeably wooden-headed ( and heavier ) than other sets we test , giving them a durable feel . Each socket also fit snugly onto each bolt — we experience no slipping , and the extenders and joints all connect tightly together . The sockets accommodate nicely into a broken blood-red charge plate computer storage case for well-fixed transport .
What our tester says:“Working on a car often means working in nasty place , so we have it away the fact that this set also includes 16 swivel - joint sockets of varying sizes along with 3- , 5- , 10- , and 15 - column inch extension bars . This is sincerely a bent designed for serious or professional mechanism . The only matter we wish the set would let in is a ⅜-inch driver . ”—Tony Carrick , merchandise Reviews tester and writer
Photo: Tony Carrick for Bob Vila
Get the Sunex 3580 socket set atAmazon , The Home Depot , orWalmart .
Best for Spark Plugs
Sunex 8845 ⅜" Drive 7-Piece Spark Plug Socket Set
splendid build character and a great admixture of socket size of it and distance make this one of the best twinkle plug set we could recover . The Sunex ⅜-inch drive gear up is similar to other sets we reviewed in that the socket lie of high - quality chrome - atomic number 23 coating . But when we equate the Sunex lay with other brands , we determine Sunex apply thicker alloy , make this hardening less probable to crack up or bow .
With seven sockets , this set is also more various than other sets we judge . There are three standard SAE , with sizes of 9/16 inch , ⅝ inch , and 13/16 inch ; one standard 16 - millimetre metric socket ; and three extra - bass 6 - in - long SAE sockets , with size of it of 9/16 in , ⅝ inch , and 13/16 in . The smaller size are ideal for removing spark plugs from lawn mowers , leaf blower , and chainsaws , while the standard ⅝-inch socket will equip most spark plugs found on car and trucks . Like other spark spark plug socket , each has a rubber retaining band that fits over the spark plug gratuity so you’re able to pull the flicker plug out after loosening it . The set also come with a furrowed case for safe storehouse .
What our tester says:“We appreciate that this kit comes with three 6 - inch - prospicient deep sockets , which are significantly longer than most spark plug sockets . We were able-bodied to reach a spark plug inside a automobile railway locomotive without having to use an extender . ”—Tony Carrick , Product Reviews examiner and writer
Photo: Tony Carrick for Bob Vila
Get the Sunex 8845 socket set atAmazonorThe Home Depot .
Best for Large Sockets
Neiko 02448A ½" Drive Master Impact Socket Set
With its heavy - tariff building and spacious range of larger socket sizes , the Neiko 65 - firearm wallop socket set is ideal for working on lug fruitcake and other turgid fastening you ’d typically worm with on a car . Imperial socket size range from ⅜ inch up to 1¼ inches , while metric sizes range from 10 to 24 millimeters . Since this is a socket set for impact drivers , we were n’t surprised to find the sizes all on the enceinte end , but if this is your only socket exercise set , you would have to look elsewhere for belittled sockets .
In plus to received and deep sockets for all include size , this big socket solidifying has a nice reach of extenders and roast that make it easier to process deadbolt settle in the deeper recesses of a railway car locomotive engine . The socket did n’t threaten to pull off the ratchets or extender even while going full bore with our impact driver . We also really like this set ’s case , which is n’t the received mildew plastic version . rather of snapping into place in asocket set personal organizer , the deadbolt sit in a tray , making them much easier to remove and put back . The only gripe we have about this set from Neiko is the amount of bootleg balance that rub off the tools and onto our hand while using the socket , but some degree of that is to be expected from carbonized steel .
What our examiner says:“Thanks to their thick and hard build , we did n’t live any cracking or kill out while removing 22 - mm lobworm en from a truck brim . We also like how the socket , extenders , and rachet all lock up into each other , ensuring they keep their joining even under intense torques . ”—Tony Carrick , mathematical product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Neiko 02448A socket go down atAmazon , Lowe ’s , orWalmart .
Best Torx Bit Set
Neiko Master Torx Bit and External Torx Socket Set
If your home mechanics jobs regard working on bike or BMWs , Mercedes , and Ford automobile , then you ’ll need estimable Torx sockets like those in this Neiko set to get the job done . This chrome - plated Torx socket set includes a broad range of size , including five ¼-inch , five ⅜-inch , and four ½-inch socket . It also come with 17 Torx bits with ten ¼-inch , five ⅜-inch , and two ½-inch bits , plus 17 security Torx bits ( ten ¼-inch , five ⅜-inch , and two ½-inch ) for Torx screws that have a raised certificate fall . For mellow - torque diligence , there are 12 Torx Plus bits : seven ¼-inch , four ⅜-inch , and one ½-inch bit . All of these pieces fit neatly into a long-lived case for organized expatriation .
In short , this is one of the most impressive assembling of Torx socket size we could find . The only affair missing is ratchets , though those with a standard hex socket set credibly already have a ¼-inch , ⅜-inch , and ½-inch driver to use with this one . aside from its variety of size , this solidification ’s most notable feature film is its admixture - steel - chrome construction , which prevents the bit heads from leach or put on even under heavy torque . We also liked the labored feel and thicker steel construction of these sockets , which understand into more power and less fortune of cracking .
Get the Neiko Master Torx socket set atAmazonorWalmart .
Photo: Tony Carrick for Bob Vila
Jump to Our Top Picks
How We Tested the Best Socket Sets
Before choosing which products to test , we research and retrospect XII of possible options , looking for those that stood out free-base on the number of small-arm in the set , durability , versatility , and particular features . We then put each of our selections through stringent testing , using them to work bolts , spark plugs , and block junkie on our fomite . During our rating , we reckon ease of approach for surd - to - arrive at bolts , how well the sockets jibe on the thunderbolt heads , and how easy the puppet made it to dispatch stubborn bolts . We also subjected our socket to high torques to see if they could withstand weighed down pressure without cracking .
Types of Sockets
It is authoritative to know the type of socket you need for your project before purchase a socket readiness . Otherwise , you may get a set that does n’t have what you require . usual socket types admit SAE , metric , Torx second , impact , machine driver , pass - through , and sparkle plug .
SAE
SAE sockets are chiefly design for study on American - made products that use the imperial organisation of measurement ( inches and fraction ) , though you will sometimes see metric measurement alongside SAE ones in places where the two coincide . SAE socket come up as regular sockets , impact socket , lapse - through socket , and Muriel Sarah Spark plug sockets , among others .
Metric
Metric sockets are the same as SAE socket in that they are not a type of socket but a measuring system grouping them . These sockets use millimetre and are big for working on import auto that may have bolts that jibe well to a metric socket than an imperial socket . Metric sockets include all the same socket types as SAE socket .
Torx Bit
External Torx socket are used for 6 - pointed star Torx - style fasteners , and Torx flake are specifically designed for use with Torx jailor , which have a 6 - pointed star- shape impression and may have a bring up security personal identification number that requires a security Torx bit . These bits can colligate to regular rachet but give you more torque to reduce or undo Torx screw . Torx Plus bits have a thicker paries and are made for gamey - torsion place . However , if you are not working with Torx screws , these bits are not that utilitarian .
Impact
Impact socket are designed for use with shock equipment driver that put more torque and force into the bit than a human can produce . Due to this stress , impact bite have thicker walls and a noncorrosive conclusion to treat increased power and quivering . These sockets have an industrial finish that makes them black alternatively of the polished chrome you see with other sockets .
Driver Bit
Driver bit are similar to the Torx bits in that they are not honest sockets . rather , a driver bit will correspond to a screw head type and size , include level or slotted , Robertson or Phillips . These routine secure to veritable ratch to provide extra torsion when loosening or reduce a screw but will only lick in the specific screw they are designed to fit .
Pass-Through
travel by - through socket are ready to hand for removing or fasten bolts or studs with tenacious prick . A hole in the middle of the socket allows the cock to pass through the socket and ratch so it ’s easier to draw the shaft through the socket to give the screwball .
When tightening with a make pass - through socket , you may keep tighten up the bolt as the shaft run through the socket and ratch , allowing you to tighten up the nut completely without needing a pull . However , you need a pass - through ratchet to use a pass - through socket , so be sure to get a set with both .
Spark Plug
glint hype socket are used to remove or set spark plug . They are much longer than standard sockets because spark plugs are often located in hard - to - access areas in the locomotive engine .
These socket sometimes have a gum elastic insert to forbid the spark plug from being damaged during removal or installation . Spark plug sockets are necessary tools for automotive professional , but DIYers who enjoy getting under the hood of their car would also benefit from having a set .
What to Consider When Choosing a Socket Set
Before opt atool kitfor your workshop , it ’s bright to take a few minute to educate yourself on the most important shopping considerations , which pertain predominantly to size , form , and durability .
Drive Size
The drive size of it of the socket refers to the possibility on the top of the socket that seize to theratchet . This opening comes in three drive size of it : ½ column inch , ⅜ in , and ¼ inch .
Shallow vs. Deep Sockets
Standard socket can come in both shallow and deep adaptation of the same size to allow you to influence with any nut - and - bolt configuration . Both type are usually included in an all - function socket set .
Shape
The shape of the socket falls into two main category : 6 - point sockets and 12 - level sockets .
Surface Finish
The surface finish of a socket set will fall into two rough-cut categories : chrome metal plating and black oxide .
Portability
A socket lot ’s portability can be an important factor if you desire to use it around the mansion or on unlike work situation . Find a socket set with a sturdy carrying case and an easy - to - grip handle .
You will also need a typeface with a high - quality Department of the Interior to secure that your sockets do not get dislodged during transferral . The internal shell require to grip the sockets tightly but also have enough give so that they do not block your workplace .
Additional Tools
Socket sets can let in a wide variety of tool that can be used with ratchet to adapt to many different tasks . Popular inclusion body are prolongation bar , swivel joint , and breakers bars ; bigger solidifying may even include atorque pull .
FAQs
As with allhand tools , it ’s authoritative to sleep together how to use and defend a socket set to insure it lasts as long as possible . Below are response to upkeep interrogative and more .
A traditional socket position usually include two different ratcheting socket wrenches , one or two extension bars , a motley of basic sockets and forte sockets for each wrench , andscrewdriverbits that equip the belittled of the two wrench . Some hardening also include combining twist , which have one undefended end like a traditional pull and one socket ending that can be fit out with sockets .
You should never use regular sockets with an wallop spanner because regular sockets have a thinner wall that is susceptible to shattering when used with an impingement wrench .
Photo: Tony Carrick for Bob Vila
Chrome sockets are regular socket for role with a standard socket wrench , while black sockets are normally made for impact wrenches . However , even if the socket is smutty , you should always tick to be sure it ’s rank for habit with an impact wrench . socket that are not made for shock wrench may shatter while in use .
Even timber cock will rust if they are n’t properly store in a pecker kit , and sockets are not an exclusion . That ’s why it ’s a full idea to look for socket sets that come in piddle - insubordinate plastic pillow slip that can help to prevent the puppet from getting damage .
A ⅜-inch drive will bring for most car upkeep job , but you ’ll likely take a ¼-drive to access blind drunk spaces . If you encounter a stuck fastener , a ½-drive socket can help give you the torque you demand to get it unaffixed . Thebest mechanic tool setscome with more than one drive sizing for dissimilar undertaking . To instruct more about socket sets for auto upkeep , read ourDeWalt mechanic dick set review .
concord to Danny Stanford - Ravet , founder ofRacing Owl Motorsport , socket Set are essential for nigh every grease monkey or DIYer . He say that once you have one , you ’ll enquire how you ever fit without , noting that “ It can save you from a big bill at the mechanic for something you’re able to situate in 15 minute . ”
Our generator from Racing Owl Motorsport , Danny Standford - Ravet , thinks that universal socket can be nice to have around but are n’t going to be able-bodied to handle every chore . “ Universal set are great for nimble mess or faint Job , but ideally , go for a well - made , comprehensive , dedicated socket set for anything serious . ”
Meet the Tester
Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home advance , landscaping , engineering , family security , and intention . His clause have been sport on such site as Angi , Popular Mechanics , Futurism , 360 Reviews by U.S. News & World Report , Switchful , and more . Tony has bear tight Cartesian product testing on everything from power tools to home security systems to backyard grills . With each reassessment , his goal is to assist referee mold whether a product receive their needs and if it is or is n’t worth its price tag .
extra research provided 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 see this restoration the Most Valuable Project of 2025 and how to stay on budget .
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