Herbert Miller
Are you planning to repair your car and looking for the right socket set? Then, this article will be of great help to you.
Nowadays, there are various socket sets available in the market that varies in quality and cost. All you need to do is look for the one that meets your requirements and your budget.
To find the perfect socket set is not an easy feat. Therefore, in this write-up, we have compiled the top 10 of these sets just for you. Hopefully, this guide will help you get the right socket set and help make your work a lot easier.
Without further ado, let’s have a look at what each of the sets has to offer.
Disclaimer – This article may contain affiliate links, this means that at no cost to you, we may receive a small commission for qualifying purchases.
In a rush? Check out our Top Picks:
Best Overall
DEWALT 108-Piece Mechanics Socket Set
- Durable and solid
- Direct torque technology
- Knurled control ring
- High torque ratcheting
- Durable grip driver
Best Budget
DEWALT 34-Piece Drive Socket Set
- Knurled control ring
- Direct torque technology
- Hard stamped markings
- Polished chrome vanadium finish
- Affordable
Heavy Duty
Sunex 3342, 3/8 Inch Impact Socket Set
- Cr-mo steel
- Chamfered Opening
- Radius corner design
- Durable
- Dual size markings (laser etched and roll stamped)
1. DEWALT 108-Piece Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set
Want a good quality socket set but do not mind spending a few bucks? DEWALT 108-Piece (DWMT73801)is the one to go for. DEWALT is a premium brand that manufactures the finest machinery and tools. It is one of the leading companies in the market for about a decade now, bearing an impressive reputation.
The DEWALT Mechanics Tools Kit and Socket Set, 108-Piece (DWMT73801) is one among their best, featuring a quick-release, 72-tooth ratchet for high-torque ratcheting. This set also comes with two pear head ratchets and a variety of sockets, adapters, and extensions.
Each socket has its SAE and drive-size designation stamped on, which helps with proper identification. It also comes with CR-V coating that’s wear-resistant. It not only helps prevent corrosion but also helps maintain the brand new look.
Pros:
- Sturdy and durable case
- Durable and ergonomic anti-slip grip
- Range of selection of drive sizes
- Firm fit of tools in the case
Cons:
- No additional room for other tools
- Firm fit of tools, which may be difficult to remove at times.
2. DEWALT ⅜-Inch 34-Piece Drive SAE / Metric Socket Set
The DEWALT ⅜-Inch 34-Piece Drive comes second in our list, having made the best budget spot. With many drives and sockets in different sizes, it will, without a doubt, fulfill your socket requirements.
This drive socket set comes in ¼ and ⅜-inches. It also consists of a ratchet (72 tooth system), which makes use of Direct Torque Technology for tight spaces.
Packed in a sturdy case, this socket set has an interlocking tool for storage that you can customize. These tools are of polished chrome vanadium.
In addition, each socket has its sizes stamped on them so you can easily identify them.
The DEWALT ⅜-Inch 34-Piece Drive Socket Set includes fourteen ¼-inch sockets, twenty ⅜-inch tools, a 3-inch extension, and a drill adapter.
Pros:
- It comes in standard metric as well as SAE socket size
- Tools are sturdily built and durable
- Compatible case
- Reasonably priced
Cons:
- Slightly heavy and bulky ratchet
- No deep sockets
- Chances of extension breaking easily
3. Sunex 3342, 3/8 Inch Drive Master Impact Socket Set, 42-Piece
The Sunex 3342, 3/8 Inch Drive Master Impact Socket Set is an absolute favorite among numerous users. It has received a well-deserved score of 4.9 / 5-star rating on Amazon, promising a lifetime warranty.
With the Cr-mo steel, it can handle high torque impact tools with its strength and flexibility. This highly durable material is then coated with a black oxide that resists corrosion sensationally. You can use it with high torque impact tools without any hesitation as this set comes with a radius corner design. This helps reduce wear and also helps increase torque in fasteners.
All the sockets are then rigorously tested, thus ensuring their best performance.
Pros:
- Strong and durable
- Black oxide coating for water, dirt, and grime resistance
- Built-in carry handle; easy carriage
- Fits almost all toolboxes and service carts
- Laser-etched and roll stamped sockets.
Cons:
- The sockets fit are not as firm and sometimes don’t stay in place.
4. SK Professional Tools 49-Piece ⅜-Inch 6-Point Socket Set
If you are looking for a socket set that guarantees versatility and convenience, this product is the right choice for you.
The SK Professional Tools 49-Piece ⅜-Inch 6-Point is a bit smaller in size in comparison to the DEWALT 108-Piece Mechanics Tools Kit. However, its usability is in no way compromised.
Along with its considerable socket variety, this set consists of a 3-inch and a 6-inch extension bar and one universal joint.
This high-quality set comes with 49 piece ⅜-inch sockets. With all these ranges, you will be able to work on any DIY work.
Its functionality improves with the addition of nine sockets that are of deep 6-point. It will be of no problem to either loosen or tighten fasteners with the help of these sockets.
Each tool is of American steel, covered with SK’s SuperKrome plating, high-polish coating as well as corrosion-resistant. This helps your tools keep a shining silver finish.
Pros:
- Robust steel construction
- Lifetime warranty
- SuperKrome Socket Plating
- Efficient SK SureGrip Technology
Cons:
- Slightly expensive
- Not so sturdy case
5. Neiko ⅜-Inch 44-Piece Drive Impact Socket Set
The Neiko ⅜ inch 44 Piece Drive Impact Socket Set comes in a blow-molded case which is not only sturdy and robust but neat and organized in socket size labels. The “Marie Kondo” in you would be pleased to see this set. It is even secured by two lever locks.
The sockets are made of heavy-duty drop-forged premium chrome vanadium steel. This builds resistance to high torque impact and also round-off deterioration from hammering stress thanks to its 6-point hex socket design. It includes both deep and shallow sockets.
It has a layer of corrosion-resistant black phosphate, and then etched with laser markings. Thus, making it easy to identify the drive socket specs and its measurements.
Pros:
- User friendly
- Durable
- Easy to identify
- Easy to transport
Cons:
- Some sizes not available
- Easily scratchable
6. AmazonBasics Mechanic Socket Tool Kit Set with Case 145-Piece
Next up, we have the AmazonBasics Mechanic Socket Tool Kit Set 145-Piece , which can be considered a good budget mechanic’s set. Considering the number of tools, it comes within the given price, and the quality is not even compromised.
The set provides a massive variety of sockets but worry not; it also has two ratchets to match the selection. It not only provides sockets and ratchets but also brings with it a 1/4-inch drive handle and a 1/4-inch drive adapter. It also comes with several combination wrenches and two long extension bars.
The tools come in a chrome vanadium forged body, which adds to its strength and durability. Furthermore, the body is also built using high corrosion resistant steel.
The only issue that most review points out is the case. Its calibration is not as perfect, making it challenging to keep the tools in place. Users need to make sure to open it at a certain angle for the tools to not fall out and create a mess.
Pros:
- Variety of selection of sockets
- Two ratchets to match sockets
- Durable
- Chrome finish
Cons:
- Storage on the flimsier side
7. EPAuto 69-Piece Drive Socket
The EPAuto 69-Piece Drive Socket is the best choice for those who are searching for a portable socket set. This 69-piece set includes a 3-inch and a 6-inch extension bar along with two drive spark plug sockets.
This kit offers 6-point sockets (SAE and metric) and two ratchets. In case of emergencies, you can easily store it in your garage or vehicle.
In this set, you will find 6-point sockets of ¼ and ⅜ inches, and pear head ratchets of the same measurements.
EPAuto Socket Set has all the tools cast with a lightweight CR-V steel alloy. Therefore, you do not have to worry about your sockets perforating or rusting.
Having said that, the presence of lightweight substance characteristics may deteriorate the torque volume to a certain extent.
Pros:
- The set has all the standard tools and sockets to repair automobiles.
- Durable and anti-corrosion due to CR-V coating
- Lightweight and neatly-packed case making it easy for storage and portability.
Cons:
- Difficult in locking back the sockets into the case at times.
- Prolonged high torque may not be appropriate for the sockets.
8. GearWrench 57-Piece ⅜-Inch Drive 6-Point Socket Set
Anyone who has ever used a ratchet will understand the value of a low profile design. With its ease of use, GearWrench brings this low profile set along with a performance head ratchet providing a longer reach.
It comes with an off-corner loading socket design, which allows better grip and even a reduced fastener rounding. Not just aesthetically pleasing to the eyes, it has a full chrome finish adding to its durability and ease for cleaning.
GearWrench, unlike the typical 6 point connection, uses their patented hexagonal-shaped ratchets with serrated fastener holdings. Such valuable tools with its durability can be used even in extreme setups. To avoid misplacing it, it comes stamped for easy identification and also a hard good quality case. The case has compartments for each socket and ratchet to store in.
Pros:
- Durable
- 84 ratchet teeth; tight turning arc
- Laser-etched marking
Cons:
- Plastic case; not sturdy
- Quick-release ratchet feature not available
9. DEWALT 192-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
You do not need to look any further because this kit right here is a 192-piece mechanic’s toolset. The DEWALT 192-Piece has everything in a socket set you could ask for.
With three ratchets, the set has a range of socket heads to tighten or loosen any type of fastener.
This extensive set consists of both standard and deep sockets of 6-point. It also has a variety of socket accessories such as universal joints, drive spark plug sockets and drive extensions.
For the process of ratcheting, you can use the ratchets that come in ¼, ⅜, and ½ inches. Each ratchet makes use of a 72 tooth wheel system, which ensures minimum rotation arcs as well as high torque.
No matter its large size, DEWALT has made sure not to compromise on accurate construction.
With proper SAE marking, each socket is carved with a laser, which makes it relatively easy to identify which is which.
Pros:
- An extensive set of ratchets and sockets
- Durable case for firm storage and protection of tools
- Fitted with knurled control rings for better grip control
Cons:
- Large in size and weighs 39.2 pounds
10. Wera Tools Zyklop 42-Piece Socket Set
The Wera Tools Zyklop 42-Piece is one of the best auto repair products you will find in the market today. In this set, there are a variety of different ratchets, including accessories.
The kit contains 13-piece sockets (metric measurement), ¼-inch ratchet, two lock extensions, universal joint, adaptor, sliding T-handle, wobble extension, and 22 bits.
One of the selling points about this product is the reversible ratchet. With its 72 teeth system, it works exceptionally well, even in small, constricted spaces.
You can even use the ratchet as a screwdriver, combining the five tools into one.
A good quality case is easily looked over and taken for granted. Wera ensures easy identification of the sockets with labels on the set as well as the box. In addition, the tools fit inside the kit comfortably.
Pros:
- Well-secured
- Good-quality drive case
- Aesthetically pleasing
Cons:
- Few inaccurate sockets
- A bit on the expensive side
Socket Sets Buyer’s Guide:
Buying a good socket set can be confusing for many. Choosing the right one is essential; thus, written below are a few points you can look out for to help you get a better idea.
Material:
Chrome vanadium steel is what you should look for; it is durable, rugged, and even good for torque. Additionally, chrome finish tools are more likely to last longer with its erosion and rust resistance properties. It also provides ease of cleaning grime and dirt.
Size:
The standards of measurement used for sockets are metric or SAE (uses inches). Also, keep in mind which standard of measurement is more applicable to your use.
Points:
Sockets run in shapes of 12-point to hexagonal (6-point). A 12-point socket is usually used for light work, whereas the latter is ideal for more heavy-duty work. The 6-point provides better grip and best used for car and motorcycle repairs.
Case Construction:
Car and motorcycle sockets typically use plastic cases. Most take the case for granted but having a good quality case with proper hinges and latches makes a big difference.
In Conclusion
Well, there you go – top ten sockets sets you can get a hold of and is totally worth the buy.
No matter if you are a professional or just a home DIY enthusiast, adding a socket set will complete your tool kit. It is best to consider the type and features of the set to meet your needs before making a purchase.
