The versatility of socket wrenches and ratchet sets makes them useful tools, whether you’re a licensed professional contractor, a do-it-all handyman, or an at-home DIYer.
After all, socket sets allow you to get into tight places, where you can tighten or loosen bolts with a great deal of torque. You can also mix-and-match between handles and ratchet heads, giving you seemingly unlimited combinations that can adapt to just about any circumstance.
Don’t run out and buy just any socket wrench or ratchet set, though. Instead, take a few minutes to read through this guide, which will help you purchase an option that meets your unique combination of needs and preferences.
Our Picks for the Best Socket Wrench and Ratchet Sets
Best Small Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: GearWrench 12-Piece 3/8” Drive SAE Socket Set
Best Portable Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Milwaukee Tools 50-Piece ¼” Socket Set
Best Metric Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: K-T IND 3/4″ Drive Metric Socket Set
Best Impact Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Milwaukee Tools Shockwave Impact Socket Set
Best Deep Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: GearWrench 23-Piece Standard & Deep-Socket Set
Best ½-Inch Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Milwaukee Tools ½” Drive SAE Socket Set
Best ¼-Inch Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Milwaukee Tools 50-Piece ¼” Socket Set
Best ⅜ inch Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Apex/Cooper Tool SAE/Metric Socket Set
What Are Socket Wrenches and Ratchet Sets Used For?
Despite their flexibility and usefulness, socket wrenches and ratchets feature straightforward functionalities.
The tool’s handle is scored to maximize grip, with a square male connector at one end, which fits into a similarly sized inlet located on the underside of each ratchet head. The opposite side of the head features a hexagon shape designed to fit over different nut and bolts sizes.
Inside the top of the handle is a cog mechanism that allows the head to move only one direction at a time. If you attempt to move the head in the opposite direction, a spring-loaded pawl catches the back of the cog’s tooth and prevents movement. You can then use this force to loosen or tighten nuts and bolts.
Together, socket wrenches and ratchets are must-have tools whether you’re working on an advanced or specialized project, including mechanics, along with more general DIY-type projects, like home maintenance.
Types of Socket Wrenches and Ratchet Sets
Here are several common types of socket wrench and ratchet sets you’ll encounter when shopping:
- Metric socket set – Metric socket sizes are measured in millimeters, making them ideal for working on foreign vehicles. 10mm and 36mm are the most common metric sizes.
- Deep socket set – These sockets are generally at least one inch long and allow you to reach nuts in otherwise inaccessible places. They’re great for working in engine bays and other awkward spots.
- Impact socket set – Instead of a traditional ratcheting mechanism, impact sockets utilize a small hammer built into their heads, which strike against an anvil with each ‘click,’ thereby delivering greater force. Impact sockets work great whenever additional force is needed, such as seized nuts and bolts.
- 3/8 socket set – Compared to metric, SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers) sockets are measured in inches and fractions of an inch. 3/8” is one of the most common sizes and is frequently used for automotive bolts.
- 1/2 socket set – Slightly larger sockets for sufficient force in almost any application.
- 1/4 socket set – Smaller sockets ideal for precision work.
Socket vs. Ratchet
People often use the terms ratchet and socket interchangeably, although they’re two distinct parts. The ratchet is the handle mechanism with the built-in cog. Comparatively, the socket, or head, is what attaches to nuts and bolts. Together, these tools are known as socket wrenches.
Features to Look for in a Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set
What are some of the features you’ll want to consider when selecting your socket wrench and ratchet set? Here’s a handy list:
- Portability – Portable socket wrench sets allow you to move from one project to the next, without worrying about how you’ll carry everything. Portable sets also typically feature compact tools and slim designs, which can help make cramped spaces more easily accessible.
- Durability – You want to spend your hard-earned money on tools that will stand the test of time. Ratchet sets made from Cr-mo steel and coated with vanadium typically withstand use and abuse – including rust – better than other materials.
- Stamped Sizes – Cr-mo steel also resists wear with use, helping your stamped sizes remain clear, longer. Sets with laser-etched or roll-stamped sizes also typically last longer.
- Tooth Count – The greater the number of teeth your wrench features, the more precise each ‘click’ will be. This maximizes torque and minimizes most of the play between each cog tooth.
- Size – With a greater number of sizes in your ratchet set, the more projects you’ll be able to handle on your own. This is where it could pay dividends to purchase a socket wrench set with both SAE and metric sizes.
- Grip – When applying torque, you want the maximum grip to ensure your hand doesn’t slip. Some models feature laser-etched grooves, while others are contoured to maximize hand comfort.
- Attachments – When it comes to socket wrench attachments, the sky’s the limit and only constrained by your needs. Common attachments include socket extensions, sockets with universal joints, and impact driver adapters.
Best Small Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: GearWrench 12-Piece 3/8” Drive SAE Socket Set
Small socket wrench and ratchet sets (those with 40 or fewer pieces) often maximize portability, can fit in cramped spaces, and can be ideal for work where precision is crucial. The 12-Piece 3/8” Drive SAE Socket Set from GearWrench features nine socket sizes coated in full-polish chrome, along with an 84-tooth precision ratchet and knurled chrome extensions. GearWrench’s Surface Drive Technology also helps reduce fastener rounding.
Pros:
- Includes nine common socket sizes.
- Comes with two additional extenders.
- Sockets feature surface drive technology.
- Comes with a storage case.
Cons:
- You’ll pay more for a quality small socket wrench set.
Best Budget:
Apex/Cooper Tools’ 20-Piece SAE/MM Socket Set comes with a 72-tooth ¼” ratchet, which attaches to a variety of SAE and metric-sized sockets. You’ll also find a 3” extender in the set, and a storage rack to keep everything organized and in one place.
Pros:
- Comes with SAE and metric sizes.
- Includes storage rack.
- Competitive price.
- Lifetime warranty.
Cons:
- Includes only one 3” extender.
Best Large Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Milwaukee Tools 106-Piece ¼” & 3/8” SAE & Metric Ratchet & Socket Set
Large socket wrench and ratchet sets contain at least 50 pieces and are ideal if you want to purchase the most pieces at a meaningfully lower cost than purchasing each tool separately. Milwaukee’s 106-Piece ¼” & 3/8” SAE & Metric Ratchet & Socket Set comes with just about everything you need for a project, large or small. Its 90-tooth ratchet with a slim profile is ideal for working in confined spaces, and its FOUR FLAT™ sides help prevent rounding nut and bolt heads.
Pros:
- 90-tooth ratchet.
- Comes with SAE and metric sockets.
- Slim profile design.
- FOUR FLAT™ sides to prevent rolling.
- Case w/removable inner tray.
- Lifetime guarantee.
Cons:
- More pieces translate into a higher price.
Best Budget:
The 148-Piece Professional Tool Set from Apex/Cooper Tool comes with all the tools you’ll need for most projects at a highly-competitive price point. In addition to its 72-tooth ratchet, the set also includes 42 sockets, two pliers, four screwdrivers, 44 driver bits, and 18 hex keys.
Pros:
- Includes 43 sockets.
- Also includes two pliers, four screwdrivers, 44 driver bits, and 18 hex keys.
- Super-competitive price.
Cons:
- Not made from Cr-mo steel.
Best Portable Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Milwaukee Tools 50-Piece ¼” Socket Set
It’s often the case that you need to carry your ratchet set with you to different locations and job sites, which is where a slim, portable option can come in handy. The 50-Piece ¼” Socket Set from Milwaukee comes with the most versatile sockets you’ll need, with stamped sizes, slim-profile heads, and FOUR FLAT™ sides that help prevent roll. As with most of Milwaukee’s tools, this socket wrench-ready set comes with a lifetime warranty.
Pros:
- FOUR FLAT™ sides.
- Slim-profile heads.
- Removable inner tray.
- Lifetime guarantee.
Cons:
- Might not come with all the sizes you need.
Best Budget:
Great Neck’s SAE & Metric Socket Set includes 40 commonly-used pieces that can help you complete various projects, regardless of your skill level. All pieces are triple-chrome-plated and heat-treated for durability, which fit inside the included plastic case.
Pros:
- Very competitive price.
- Includes sockets 1/4″ to 3/8″, drive sockets, and nut drivers.
- Comes with a 3” extender.
- Triple-chrome-plated and heat-treated pieces for rust resistance.
Cons:
- No lifetime warranty.
Best Metric Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: K-T IND 3/4″ Drive Metric Socket Set
Metric wrench and ratchet sets are ideal if you need to work on imported cars, motorcycles, and other vehicles. The 3/4″ Drive Metric Socket Set from K-T IND comes with 21 ¾” drive sockets, in addition to two extenders and a sliding t-handle. All parts in the set are made from tempered and heat-treated chrome vanadium steel, which you can store in the included case.
Pros:
- Includes 17 socket sizes.
- Comes with two extenders and a sliding t-handle.
- Made from heat-treated chrome vanadium steel.
Cons:
- All pieces are metric, which could be problematic if you need SAE sizes.
Best Budget:
The ½ Drive Metric Socket Set from Apex/Cooper Tool comes with eight different metric socket sizes (12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, and 21mm), all made from chrome vanadium alloy steel, along with a storage rack. The set is designed to unstick high-strength fasteners often found in the automotive and aviation industries.
Pros:
- Comes with the most popular metric socket sizes.
- Includes storage rack.
- Price that’s difficult to beat.
Cons:
- Includes only metric sizes (no SAE sizes).
- No carrying case (storage rack only).
Best Impact Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Milwaukee Tools Shockwave Impact Socket Set
Impact socket sets feature built-in hammers and anvils that create striking force with each ratchet click to help loosen especially stuck nuts and bolts. Made from heat-treated Chromoly steel, Milwaukee’s Shockwave Impact Socket Set comes with nine pieces (3/8″, 7/16″, 1/2″, 9/16″, 11/16″, 3/4″ & 7/8″, in addition to a 1/4″ hex to 1/2″ square adapter), all of which are designed for impact wrenches and drills. Each piece is constructed from heat-treated Chromoly steel for maximum durability.
Pros:
- Constructed from heat-treated Chromoly steel.
- Designed for use with impact wrenches and drills.
- Compact construction for tight clearances.
Cons:
- Only includes SAE sizes.
- Doesn’t include a ratchet.
Best Budget:
Dewalt’s ½”-Drive Socket Set is also designed for impact wrenches and drivers and comes with eight socket sizes between 7/16″ and 7/8″. It features two 1/4″ socket adapters, laser-etched size markings, and a carrying case.
Pros:
- Competitive price for what you get in return.
- Comes from a company with a mostly positive reputation.
- Large, easy-to-read size etchings.
Cons:
- Only includes SAE sizes.
- Doesn’t come with a ratchet.
Best Deep Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: GearWrench 23-Piece Standard & Deep-Socket Set
Deep socket and wrench sets feature special designs that allow them to reach otherwise inaccessible nuts and bolts. These versions generally start at one inch and increase to 10 inches or more. The 23-Piece Standard & Deep-Socket Set from GearWrench comes with a ratchet with a full-polish finish, a balanced head for comfort, an on/off switch, and a tear-drop shape. All sizes are hard-stamped. You’ll also get GearWrench’s SurfaceDrive technology to help prevent rounding, along with two extensions.
Pros:
- Comes with deep sockets.
- Includes low-profile ratchet head for easy access.
- Comes with SurfaceDrive technology.
Cons:
- Only SAE sizes.
- Higher price than some sets.
Best Budget:
Apex/Cooper Tools’ Deep Socket Socket Set includes eight socket sizes (12, 13, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, and 21mm), with easy-read size markings and two deep sockets (1/2″ drive and 6-point), all of which feature a full-polish finish. When you’re finished using the sockets and ratchet, everything stores away neatly with the included storage rack.
The set also comes with a lifetime warranty in case anything goes wrong.
Pros:
- Competitive price.
- Includes standard and deep sockets.
- Durable, easy-read socket size etchings.
- Lifetime warranty.
Cons:
- Metric sizes only.
- No carrying case – storage rack only.
Best ½-Inch Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Milwaukee Tools ½” Drive SAE Socket Set
Common ratchet sizes include 1/4-inch drive, 1/2-inch drive, and 3/8-inch drive. Milwaukee’s ½” Drive SAE Socket Set comes with a total of 22 versatile pieces, all of which are wrench-ready and feature FOUR FLAT™ technology to prevent rounding. The set’s case features a removable inner tray and holds a slim-profile 90-tooth ratchet with a flush-direction lever.
Pros:
- 90-tooth, slim-profile, ratchet head for maximum adjustability.
- FOUR FLAT™ technology.
- Carrying case with removable inner tray.
- Lifetime guarantee.
Cons:
- SAE sizes only.
Best Budget:
GearWrench’s ½” Drive Socket Set includes 12 hard-stamped sockets with Surface Drive Technology to reduce rounding that attach to an 84-tooth full-polish chrome ratchet. You’ll also find two extensions that feature the same full-polish chrome finish.
Pros:
- Includes 12 of the most common SAE socket sizes.
- All pieces feature a full-polish chrome finish.
- Comes with a storage case.
- Competitive price.
Cons:
- Only includes SAE-size sockets.
Best ¼-Inch Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Milwaukee Tools 50-Piece ¼” Socket Set
Quarter-inch socket wrench sets are the smallest in the lineup, making them ideal for accessing nuts and bolts in cramped quarters. Milwaukee Tools advertises their 50-Piece ¼” Socket Set as the most versatile available, with 46 different stamped socket sizes, including standard and deep-well versions, two extenders, a universal socket, and a slim-profile head with flush-direction lever. When you’re finished, everything tucks away nicely in a carrying case with a removable inner tray,
Pros:
- Features dozens of the most popular SAE socket sizes.
- Comes with three extenders and a carrying case.
- Anti-roll technology.
- Wrench-ready.
- Lifetime guarantee.
Cons:
- Includes only SAE sizes.
Best Budget:
Apex/Cooper Tools’ ¼” Drive Set comes with a 72-tooth quick-release ratchet, 19 different deep and standard size sockets (3/16″, 7/32″, 1/4″, 9/32″, 5/16″, 11/32″, 3/8″, 7/16″ and 1/2″), and one extender, all of which are constructed from chrome vanadium alloy steel. All of the tools tuck away inside the included storage case.
Pros:
- Includes standard and deep sockets.
- Chrome Vanadium alloy steel construction.
- Competitive price.
Cons:
- SAE sizes only.
Best ⅜ inch Socket Wrench and Ratchet Set: Apex/Cooper Tool SAE/Metric Socket Set
Three-eighths-inch socket wrench and ratchet sets strike an even balance between small, reach-anywhere size and larger, most robust versions. The SAE/Metric Socket Set from Apex/Cooper Tool features chrome vanadium alloy steel sockets, and SAE and metric sizes between 1/4″ and 7/8”, and 7mm to 19mm, respectively. You’ll also find a 5/8″ spark plug socket, a 72-tooth quick-release ratchet, 3″ and 6″ extensions, and a universal joint.
Pros:
- 72-tooth ratchet.
- Constructed from chrome vanadium alloy steel.
- Includes the most popular SAE and metric socket sizes, along with extenders and a universal joint.
- Also includes a 5/8″ spark plug socket.
Cons:
- Higher price than many socket wrench sets.
Best Budget:
The Crescent Brand Mechanics Socket Wrench Set features a 72-tooth ratchet with a five-degree swing. You’ll also find a 3″ extension bar, 12 SAE sockets between 5/16″ and 13/16″, and nine metric sizes between 9mm and 19mm.
Pros:
- Includes SAE and metric socket sizes.
- Easy-to-read socket size markings.
- Very competitive price.
- Lifetime warranty.
Cons:
- No carrying case – storage rack only.