The importance of having a good socket set cannot be underestimated. However, to ensure that you get a good one, you can’t just go out and buy the first product you see.
To get the best socket sets, you need to make sure that you do your research before heading out.
In this list, each product was carefully reviewed by our team of experts.
However, before getting towards that, we need to be wary of a few things.
Buyers guide
If you’re planning to get the right product for yourself, that warrants responsibility and commitment.
By keeping the following tips in mind, you’re more than likely to get just what you need!
Size
Different sockets come in different sizes. Measurements are likely to come in two different standards, metric or SAE. The latter, Standard Sized Socket (SAE), has its measurement n inches.
Check to see which ones you normally work with and which are more applicable for your garage
Drive size
Drive size would indicate what sort of ratchets you can work with. Furthermore, the variety of drive sizes make it easier for the user to work with them.
If you already have a set of those with you, then try to get a socket set that accommodates them.
Material
The material of the socket set is likely to indicate its durability and longevity. If you’re looking for the best impact socket sets, it’s best to go for chrome vanadium steel.
Furthermore, try to get a general idea of what type of environment you’ll be working under so that you can look for other features as well, such as corrosion and rust resistance.
Points
The shape of the socket runs from a 12 pointed star to a hexagonal shape. Ideally, if your work is heavy duty, it’s best to go for the latter.
Top 15 Socket Sets Reviews
The list below was compiled after intense scrutiny. Alongside each product, we have mentioned a brief review followed by a short list of pros and cons.These will further help you choose a product and add more substance to your decision.
Without further ado, here are the top 15 socket sets available on the market!
1. CASOMAN 38-Piece Impact Socket Set
This set by CASOMAN is perhaps one of the best ones currently in the market. The product is durable and long-lasting, owing due to its production in Chrome Vanadium alloy steel and corrosion-resistant finish.
The set includes a six-point flank drive that delivers the optimal torque level without any damage. Additionally, this set has a combination of both SAE and metric sizes.
This product is more geared towards professional usage, but we recommend it for everyone!
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Heavy duty
- Durability
- Easy to read
Cons:
- No 10mm socket
- Not suited for beginners
2. TACKLIFE Master Hex Bit Socket Set
To ensure durability, this product has a sand-blasting finish and is made of S2 steel alloy.
The production company ensures that these sets are accurate to a very large degree and can withstand high levels of torque.
Furthermore, this set is great for portability as the casing is quite efficiently done. This means you can easily carry it from place to place without any worry of packing and storing.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Precision
- Easy storage
- Heat-treated sockets
Cons:
- No impact bits
3. WORKPRO 13-Piece Socket Set
This product is drop forged and heat-treated to give it that edge over its competitors. With extra durability, longevity, and strength, this product is reputed to be the favorite for professionals.
The chrome vanadium sockets are corrosion-proof and can function well in harsh environments.
Furthermore, these sockets can work on a wide variety of machinery, such as cars, trucks, lawnmowers, and similar household appliances.
Overall, this model is good to have as part of the garage due to its versatile functionality and user-friendly design.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Durable
- Easy to remove
- Versatile
Cons:
- Inefficient packing
- Distinct odor on arrival
4. Stalwart 75-HT3014 Socket Set
This set comes in a small and efficient packaging, which is the answer to all your needs.
Made with drop forged steel with a chrome vanadium finish, this model ensures a high degree of accuracy and is made with utmost attention to detail.
The sockets are 6 points, making them optimal for heavy-duty work. Furthermore, it also includes SAE & Metric in 1/4, 3/8, and 1/2 Drive Sets.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Durability
- Good presentation
- Optimal for home usage
Cons:
- No ‘side-up’ on the casing
- Not for professional usage
5. Neiko 02440A Impact Socket Set
If you’re looking for a product that is neater and organized, this is the right one for you. The set comes in a six drive socket design, which makes it good for heavy work and hammering.
The material is made of heavy-duty steel and is quite durable and likely to operate well in harsh environments.
Furthermore, this packaging comes with labels on the slots, which mean you can neatly rearrange them as well after usage.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Easy to use
- Easy to identify
- Accuracy
Cons:
- Coating scratches up
- Does not include some sizes
6. CASOMAN 32 Piece Socket Set
This set is made from S2 steel bits and is built to withstand harsh environments and temperature. The set is the standard rust and corrosion-free.
The product comes with a very good casing which has labeled slots and a wrist slot as well. Furthermore, the packaging is blow-molded and safe to carry around.
This product is recommended for those individuals who frequently travel on the job and would like their tools with them at all times.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Durable
- Good packaging
- Easy to carry around
Cons:
- Some sizes are missing
- Slots are leaky
7. Craftsman 11 Pc SAE Standard Socket Set
If you’re looking for something solid that can deliver well in all types of settings and scenarios, this is the product for you.
Built specifically to withstand extreme climates and temperatures, this product is the right one for you if you feel that other products might be too brittle for your taste.
The set includes 11 pieces, all coming in different sizes.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Good quality
- Versatile
Cons:
- No packaging
- Not impact rated
8. 40 Piece Ratcheting Socket Wrench Set
This set comes with a very convenient and smart storage box. The set is made with durable steel that resists abrasion and corrosion.
The wrench in this set comes with two different handles, making the job easier for you. Furthermore, the set also has dual measurements, which also grants it a higher level of accuracy and readability.
This product is recommended for both professional and amateurs!
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Good presentation
- Optimal for home usage
- Easy to handle
Cons:
- Inefficient drive pin for smaller sizes
- Bad adaptor mechanics
9. Vim Tools SHM400 Bit Set
If you’re looking for a set to use that you can also occasionally show off, this is the right one for you.
The set comes in an aesthetic and simple packing. All the sockets are knurled, which provide for easy gripping and rotation.
Furthermore, all the products are satin chrome plated and heat-treated, which grants them decent durability and usage.
Additionally, the casing that comes along is also easy to carry around.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Easy to carry around
- Aesthetics
- Durability
Cons:
- Might rust
10. Great Neck Saw PSO40 Drive Socket Set
If you’re looking for a simple set that can easily get the job done, then the Great Neck Saw PSO40 Drive Socket Set is the right one for you.
The set is triple chrome coated for additional protection and includes 1/4-inch and 3/8-inch drive sockets. Furthermore, the model also includes a 3/8-inch reversible ratchet and accessories.
This model is highly recommended for individuals who work out of their garage or want to keep a kit in the house at all times.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Durability
- Longevity
- Easy to use
Cons:
- Not suited for professionals
- Bad organization
11. Capri Tools 30032 Socket Set
This set is made from drop forged and heat-treated S2 steel, which makes it durable and fit for usage in harsh environments.
The chrome-plated chrome vanadium sockets are designed with keeping efficiency in mind and are oil and corrosion-proof.
This product is designed by keeping household utilities in mind and is optimal for working on appliances found around the house, such as the fridge, lawnmower, and other similar stuff.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Large stamped sizing
- Chamfered edges
- Great finish
Cons:
- Some sizes are skipped
12. GEARWRENCH 80562 Socket Set
This set doesn’t come in any particular packaging or box, which makes it a little difficult to manage it.
However, as far as optimization and functionality go, this is one of the best products currently on the market.
The serration depth on this set is as deep as the fastener. Furthermore, each set is labeled and marked so that you can identify one socket from another.
Overall, this model won’t disappoint, and we highly recommend it for the hobbyist!
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Simplistic
- Easy to use
- Labeled products
Cons:
- Bad accuracy
- Not that sturdy
13. SK Hand Tools 4051 Impact Socket Set
This 28 piece set is a good addition to your collection based on several merits. The set has nineteen 6-point, deep fractional impact sockets with 1/2-Inch drive.
The sockets are crafted with meticulous attention to detail and are very accurate.
They are laser-engraved every 120 degrees and conveniently packaged in a molded plastic case.
Furthermore, they are also rust and corrosion proof, which also grants them additional lifespan.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Rugged
- Durable
- Precise
Cons:
- Can’t travel with them
- No packaging bag
14. DEWALT Deep Socket Set
DEWALT always delivers one of the best products on the market. This set is made with DirectTorque technology and has a polished chrome vanadium finish.
Furthermore, the Dewalt also has hand stamped marking, which will grant you the ease of reading, along with a knurled control ring that is bound to make the job easier for you.
We recommend this model for both professionals and hobbyists due to its versatility and reliability!
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Sturdy
- Easy to read
- Well made and put together
Cons:
- The finish might wear off
- The casing is too large
15. Wera Tools Zyklop 42 Piece Socket Set
This product combines efficiency with aesthetics and is one of the best products currently available on the market.
This set comes with a lot of different types of ratchets and accessories. It has a reversible ratchet that has 72 fine-pitched teeth that work excellently in confined and small spaces.
Furthermore, the pieces are also put together quite well. The set is labeled as well as the box.
If you’re looking for a product to use and show off, this is the best one.
More photo & price on amazon.com
Pros:
- Aesthetics
- Put together well
- Good drive case
Cons:
- Some sockets are not accurate
Frequently Asked Questions
Can impact sockets be used as regular sockets?
In simple words, yes, you can use the impact socket like a regular socket.
The main reason for that is that impact sockets are compatible with different type of wrenches as well as being equally functional.
However, it’s best to only use impact sockets when their need is very important, as opposed to optional.
Can I use impact sockets for everything?
Yes. In general, there is no problem whatsoever associated with using impact sockets for every purpose.
The problem, however, might lay in the fact that you won’t be getting peak performance then.
For this reason, it’s best to use the right product for the particular job at hand.
What is the difference between a regular socket and an impact socket?
A regular socket and an impact socket have three major differences.
The first is a difference in color, with the impact of sockets being black. This allows for it to be more adaptable to sudden torque changes.
The second difference is the material from which they are made, and the third difference is the usage.
How much torque can a ½ drive take?
To answer that question, companies often do test-runs and make sure that all such queries are cleared for the customers.
As stated by the producers, a ½ drive will go up to about 1200 ft-lbs.
Why do impact sockets have a hole?
The main purpose of the hole in the impact socket is to make space for and accommodate the additional ‘impact’ generated by the torque.
This is also why impact sockets are more resistant to breaking or damage. In short, the holes help in stabilizing the vibrations produced.
Why can’t you use chrome sockets on an impact?
Chrome sockets aren’t built for impact. If you continue to use the chrome socket for this purpose, the socket is likely to break very easily.
This is because chrome sockets don’t handle impacts as well as impact sockets.
What type of steel are sockets made of?
When making sockets, four different types of materials are usually considered.
These are chrome vanadium, chrome molybdenum, 8650, S2, and stainless steel.
Do sockets wear out?
Eventually, yes. Though it is often unheard of, sockets do eventually wear out.
The main reason for this is because of the underlying principle of any two objects that are in contact and are rotated.
Wear and tear are bound to happen with due time.
What are black sockets used for?
Black sockets are used for projects that require high torque conversion.
The main reason is that the surface of the socket can easily withstand and absorb the extra energy provided.
In other words, the ‘impact’ is absorbed.
Can you use a reducer on a torque wrench?
Yes, you can.
However, the torque rate required and the torque rate provided is likely to be different, which is why there is a decent chance that the efficiency of the project would be marginally reduced.
What is an impact socket wrench?
The impact socket wrench is an apparatus that is particularly designed to give a very high torque output while minimizing the exertion by the user.
The energy in an impact socket wrench is stored in a rotating body and then expelled suddenly.
Impact wrenches are also known as windy gun and rattle gun.
Conclusion
Remember, a smart investment goes a long way. If you stick to the list mentioned above, you’re more than likely to get the product that you’ve always wanted.
If you liked something mentioned in the list above or have any recommendations, do mention them in the comment section below!
Awesome! No words. You always go one step beyond.
Thank you so much for such an informative piece of information 🙂
If anyone interested similar one’s have a look here
besttoolsbrand
Thanksa