Standardized sockets are an essential part of any toolkit, whether you’re an occasional DIY-er or a dedicated mechanic.
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If you plan on tackling a DIY project that involves nuts and bolts, then you need a socket set. These handy kits provide a socket wrench or ratchet, as well as a wide array of sockets so you can loosen or tighten whatever fastener you have in front of you. Although they accomplish the same task as a set of manual wrenches, their ratcheting mechanism makes jobs easier by allowing you to continuously turn the fastener without having to reposition it for each rotation. Socket sets can range from bare-bones options with just a few pieces, to comprehensive collections with multiple wrenches, extensions, and adapters.
All socket sets include multiple sockets, but the total number can vary wildly. Even a basic set should include at least the most commonly used sizes, such as ¼- , ⅜- and ½-inch standard; and 8mm, 10mm and 14mm metric. Sets with hundreds of options can certainly be useful, but may not be worth the extra price if you don’t have the need for them.
If you already have a socket wrench or ratchet, keep in mind that you can save a little money by looking for a socket set that doesn’t come with a wrench.
There are a few different types of sockets, so make sure your set includes the ones you need.
It’s important to make sure that the sockets in your set fit the fasteners you need to loosen or tighten. Sockets come in one of two measurements: Standard or “SAE,” which is measured in inches; and Metric, measured in millimeters. These systems are not interchangeable, so if you aren’t sure what type of fasteners you may encounter, look for a set that has both.
You should also check the “drive size” of your socket set, which indicates the size of the opening on the back of each socket where it attaches to the socket wrench. ¼-inch drive sockets are more compact and suited for cramped spaces, ⅜-inch drive sockets are the most versatile and most common, and useful for a wide range of applications. ½-inch sockets are the largest, and provide the secure hold necessary for high-torque jobs.
To assemble this guide, I first called upon my own personal experience using socket wrench sets, noting the brands and specific pieces I’ve come to trust and rely on. I then began compiling a collection of potential options, researching online customer feedback, and reviewing the selections of several well-regarded product review sites to make sure I wasn’t excluding any popular, updated, or niche options. Using criteria like quantity, specific use cases, price, and overall versatility, I selected these specific sets.
This 135-piece Craftsman set covers a wide range of ratcheting tasks. It features three different 72-tooth wrench sizes, so it’s a perfect all-around kit for many types of projects. You’re also getting both standard- and Metric-size sockets, and four attachments for getting to tough-to-reach fasteners.
I’ve always found Craftsman tools to strike a valuable balance between quality and affordability, making this set a useful option for amateurs and pros alike. The set of eight combination wrenches is another nice perk, providing even more versatility.
All that variety makes for a somewhat hefty set–about 20 pounds–but it’s certainly worth the trade-off.
This smaller Craftsman set doesn’t have the socket quantity or extra tools found in some of my other picks, but it’s a great no-frills option if you’re on a budget. The 72-tooth ratchet only needs minimal space to swing–ideal for cramped workspaces–and a 1.5-inch extension bar provides more reach if you need it.
The nine sockets range in size from 3/16- to ½-inch, and I’m a big fan of the large size markings on each one. The entire case also measures just 6.77 x 4.8 inches, making it extremely convenient for storage and transport.
If you really want to get serious about performing your own auto or motorcycle maintenance, look no further than this 168-piece DeWalt set. I’ve been using it for months, and have been impressed with the quality of the individual sockets and wrenches. It also comes with a supply of allen keys, a case of screwdriver bits, and a full combination wrench set.
The components fit nice and snug in the blow-molded case, but they’re still easy to remove and insert without much effort. Despite the high number of pieces, the case maintains a very slim footprint, making it convenient to store practically anywhere.
This pro-grade set isn’t cheap, but considering its extremely high-quality construction and the stellar reputation of SK Tools, you won’t have to purchase another set ever again. A high-polish finish protects the sockets and ratchets from damage, and resists corrosion for the life of the tool.
During use, the sockets are designed to grip and drive the sides of a fastener instead of the corner, which both increase the strength applied, and prevents any fastener rounding. Based in the US, SK Tools has been a favorite of professional tradespeople for over a hundred years.
This Wera set features a slim, narrow ratchet with a small head and long handle that’s perfect for reaching into tight and confined spaces. The 75–tooth ratchet only needs 5 degrees of space to operate, and the extra-long adapter adds even more reach if necessary.
Each of the nine sockets twists onto a mounting base in the storage case, so they won’t roll around and get lost while you work. Their knurled bases are also easy to grip and hold, and colored bands make it easy to identify the size you’re looking for. Wera tools are known for their precision and attention to detail.
True to form, this set isn’t cheap. For busy makers, though, it is a worthy investment.
Intended for use with a ⅜-inch impact wrench, these forged steel sockets are specifically designed to withstand the high torque of power tool applications. Their recessed and ink-filled size markings are large and easy to identify, and a dual-hole design allows for hassle-free attachments. A non-slip hexagonal shape helps prevent fastener rounding too, ensuring you always have a solid, secure fit while you work.
In addition to the standard and metric sizes, this set also provides a socket adapter, impact extension and universal joint. These aren’t a practical choice for the occasional DIY-er, but if you regularly tackle powered socket tasks, this is a great option.
If you already have a ratchet wrench, this simple ¼-inch socket set should cover your basic needs. A handy storage rail keeps all the sockets organized and securely clipped into place, and large stamped sizes make them easy to identify.
The off-corner loading design of these sockets reduce the chances of fastener rounding during use, and polished chrome finish resists corrosion. I’ve been using Gearwrench tools for years, and have always been impressed with their quality and durability.
Alex Rennie is a freelance writer who specializes in the Home Improvement, DIY, and Tool space. As a former residential and commercial carpenter, Alex uses his hands-on experience to write practical buying guides, how-to articles, and product reviews. His work has also appeared in Business Insider's Insider Picks, and before his writing career, he was a full-time carpenter living in New York City. There, he worked as part of a team designing, building, and installing large furniture pieces, as well as performing a variety of home repair and maintenance projects. Alex currently lives in Los Angeles, CA, and spends his free time exploring the beaches and mountains with his fiancé and their dog Louie.
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