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The 7 Best Socket Sets
- Tools Guru Staff
- January 17, 2022
A decent socket set is a must-have in your toolbox whether you are working in your workshop or motoring in your garage. You can’t grab any random socket set from the market and start working. There are a few important factors you must know and consider before purchasing the best socket set.
Don’t you know about those factors? Chill. This guide will help you to choose the best socket set fulfilling your requirements.
You can get the basic sets from your nearest supermarket or contact trade suppliers to provide you with professional socket sets. Before that, let us tell you the must-know factors so that you can make the right choice.
Table of Contents
| # | Preview | Product | Rating | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |  | Best Impact Socket Wrench Set—Sunex | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
| 2 |  | Sunex Tools 3580 3/8-Inch Drive Master Impact Socket Set | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | |
| 3 |  | Sunex Spark Plug Socket Set 8845 | ⭐⭐⭐ |
| BEST CHOICE |
|---|
|
| Best Impact Socket Wrench Set—Sunex |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| PREMIUM PICK |
|---|
|
| Sunex Tools 3580 3/8-Inch Drive Master Impact Socket Set |
| ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| BEST VALUE |
|---|
|
| Sunex Spark Plug Socket Set 8845 |
| ⭐⭐⭐ |
Things You Should Look For in A Socket Set
Drive size: The drive is basically a hole in the socket that fits into the ratchet and keeps the socket in its place. Either your socket head is SAE or metric, the drive size is measured in inches.
However, the drive comes in three basic sizes; ¼ inch, which is helpful while working on small nuts, bolts, and motors, ½ inch sized drives are preferred to use for large fasteners and motors, and a 3/8 inch size, a versatile one.
Length: Sockets come in two basic lengths, either deep or shallow. There is no official standard for length but shallow sockets are mostly ½ inch long whereas deep sockets come in the length of 1 inch. Deep sockets are used to reach the distant fasteners.
Various socket sets offer deep sockets with a large number of shallow sockets. However, the spark plug sets mostly offer deep sockets.
Points: Observe the socket head, there will be a star-shaped opening with 6 or 12 points. Sockets with 8 points are also available but relatively less. The sockets with 6 points are stronger and can tolerate more torque. Whereas, the sockets with 12 points are mostly helpful to line the fasteners. Various socket sets offer both types of sockets.
Measurement System: Two basic measurement systems are used for the socket head, that is Metric system and SAE. The Metric system is one of the commonly used systems these days. In a Metric system, you take measurements in millimeters.
Whereas in SAE (Society of Automotive Engineers), measurements are taken in inches. Having SAE sockets is a plus if you are working on American motorbikes, cars, or other motors. Many companies offer socket sets with both measurement systems.
Types of Socket Sets Available
Apart from the factors, there are a few types in which the socket comes. You must know the types to know which type of socket sets you require. However, the types are as follows:
Impact Sockets: Impact sockets are just like ordinary sockets but they can be used with power tools, unlike ordinary sockets. The sockets provide strength and durability to the force that comes from electric tools.
Non-Impact Sockets: These sockets are the simple and old ones that require human force to perform. It takes a lot of time to get the work done with these sockets. The ratchet offered with this tool may perform and sometimes don’t.
Hex sockets: Hex sockets are commonly available in the market these days. As their name shows, they clip with the 6-point shaped fasteners which is a reliable and rugged shape. Some of the hex sockets offer a tweaked internal socket face, this helps to maintain added torque by lowering the risk of slippage and fastener damage.
Bi-Hex Sockets: As shown by the name, they contain internal structures with 12 points that make them flexible and more favorable to fit into the fasteners. Bi-Hex sockets fit into both hexagonal and square-head fasteners.
Imperial Sockets: Such are the dimension-specific sockets that most of the workers use with fasteners under SAE. With these, you can hold the fasteners having both metric and SAE units.
Therefore, investing in these sockets will not be a bad choice at all. However, the sockets don’t offer much flexibility as compared to the other types.
Based on quality, price, range, and usefulness, we have listed down the 7 best socket sets with pros and cons. Have a look and find the best socket set for yourself.
1.1. Best Impact Socket Wrench Set—Sunex
This impact socket wrench set from Sunex offers all the types of sockets including standard, universal, deep, and metric sockets. This is a 51-piece set which is made from chrome-molybdenum steel. The socket set includes a ⅜-inch drive, a ¼-inch socket holder, and a three-inch extension.
The brand of this set provides a lifetime warranty thus falls among the best impact socket sets you will ever need to purchase.
The set displays a perfect design that distributes the pressure towards the hexagonal walls of the socket instead of the corners, this reduces the stripping.
Moreover, the sockets are strong and sturdy enough to perform the heavy-duty tasks of your profession. They can handle as many tough tasks as you can imagine and will not break.
The socket case also comes in the heavy-duty form that offers convenient and safe storage of sockets. Hence, this socket set is the best option for a mechanic or any professional technician.
Pros
- Laser-etched
- Durable
- A heavy-duty case for storage
- Can be used with an impact wrench
Cons
- Storage case issues may occur sometimes
1.2. Sunex Tools 3580 3/8-Inch Drive Master Impact Socket Set
This impact socket set from Sunex Tools is a perfectly engineered set. The set comes with 80 sporting pieces that include deep, universal, metric, and external star sockets. Not only this, but the set also offers a wide variety of extensions.
Constructed of chromium-molybdenum alloy steel, the set offers durability. The set can assist you for years in your work without any doubt. This Sunex Impact Socket Set also contains a universal joint that pivots 22 degrees and deep sockets that provide great assistance in the removal of lug nuts.
With these mentioned features, you can easily tackle tough and tight fasteners.
Moreover, the set includes a wide variety of socket sizes that makes it a preferred choice among mechanics and other workers. However, this comprehensive set may be a bit expensive but worth it because of the high-end and variety of socket sizes.
Pros
- A multifaceted and comprehensive selection
- Durable and tough-built
- Can be used with the impact wrench
Cons
- Flimsy carry-case
- Expensive
1.3. Sunex Spark Plug Socket Set 8845
A good socket wrenches set adds great value to the work, either you are working professionally or as a hobbyist. This Sunex Spark Plug Socket Set offers 7 sockets. Constructed of Chromium-vanadium alloy steel, it provides maximum strength.
Moreover, the set offers three 2.5 inch long sockets in the sizes of 5/6, 9/16, and 13/6 inches; three 6 inch long sockets that come in the size of 9/16, 13/16, and 5/8 inches; and a 2.5-inch long socket.
A heavy-duty plastic box also comes with a set that aids in the safe storage of sockets.
This Sunex 8845 3/8-Inch Spark Plug Socket Set is a top choice because of its wide variety and tough-built durable construction.
Its well-crafted design aids you to access and turn the spark plugs be it of an automobile or a lawnmower.
Either you are working on gas power engines or cars as a motor mechanic, or performing your random household repairing task this socket wrench can help you a lot.
Pros
- A highly useful tool for professionals
- Sturdy plastic casing
- Can reach even deep spark plugs
- Strong, tough-built, and durable
Cons
- Don’t offer ratchets and adapters
- No general uses
1.4. MulWark Premium Master 34-Piece Socket Set
The MulWark Premium Master 34-Piece Socket set contains 17 metric and SAE hex sockets each. Made from steel, the sockets come in a variety of size ranges.
However, the set does not offer any rachet, adapters, extenders, and other accessories that you may find in the expensive socket sets. A plastic socket case comes with the set for storage purposes.
Hobbyists don’t require high-end socket sets to meet their regular or household needs. If you are also a hobbyist then this MulWark 34-Piece Socket Set can be the best choice for you.
This decent socket set contains all the basic sockets that you may need to fix your motorbike, car, bicycle, or any other household machinery.
This budget-friendly socket set can be a perfect addition to your household tool kit. Moreover, the set is durable and compact enough to perform basic household tasks.
Pros
- Durable
- Affordable price range
- The most common and required sizes of sockets are available
Cons
- No rachet and other accessories
1.5. Neiko 10083A Master Torx Bit Socket and External Torx Socket Set
The Neiko Master Torx bit socket set is a mediocre set that provides professional-quality assistance. Specific sockets and Torx screws are required for different kinds of fasteners. Torx screws require Torx screwdrivers also named Torx bit sockets.
Composed of Chrome vanadium, the Neiko’s Torx socket set contains 17 Torx sockets that range from T6 to T70, 12 TP bit sockets that range from TP8 to TP60, 14 external Torx sockets that range from E4 to E24, and 17 tamper-proof sockets whose range is from TT6 to TT70.
Torx screw is a must-have either if you are going to repair your bicycle or a computer technician.
However, the socket set is a semi-expensive and high-end tool that can help you to perform multiple household and technical tasks. Although this socket set can’t replace your traditional socket, yet it will prove a significant addition to your tool kit.
Pros
- Contain bits and sockets
- A complete Torx set
- Sturdy plastic casing
- Durable
Cons
- All the sockets are based on specialties, doesn’t include any general sockets
- No rachet included
1.6. Stalwart 75-HT4023B Ratchet, Metric Socket, and Bit Set
The Stalwart 75-HT4023B Ratchet, Metric Socket, and Bit Set is a budget-friendly, 26-piece set that adds value to your tool kit and the best option to fulfill your everyday requirements.
The set comes in a small case, along with a ratchet wrench and eight metric sockets that range from 5 mm to 12 mm. This Stalwart set also offers 12 screwdriver bits of different sizes that include 3 flat, 3 Phillips, 3 Torx, and 3 Pozi bits.
The rapid advancement of technology is making things outdated very quickly. Things that worked for you yesterday may require a repair now. In that case, this ratchet set is a handy, portable, and compact tool that helps you do your daily repair tasks efficiently and more comfortably.
Be it your automotive repair or any household task, this set offers great assistance.
Moreover, the set leans towards small sides and it shows that this is perfect for jobs where you get limited space. Its small size is a perfect fit to be a part of your kitchen drawer or your glove compartment.
Pros
- The set offers a few sockets and screwdriver bits
- Affordable price
- Perfect for your kitchen drawer or car
- Can provide great assistance in emergency cases
Cons
- Offers only a few sockets
1.7. Stanley STMT71652 123-Piece Socket Set
This Stanley STMT71652 is a 123-Piece socket set that offers 123 most useful tools to assist you in your mechanical or technical work. The set is constructed of high-alloy steel that is heat-treated for better performance.
This Stanley set comes with 70 sockets, 2 ratchets, around 20 screwdriver bits, and one spinner handler.The set contains a wide variety of top-quality high-end tools that your pocket can easily afford. Moreover, this set is also the best fit for beginners who want an entry-level set.
The set offers all the required tools that may need to perform your household repairing task or a minor automotive repair.
Chrome protection also makes it rust-free. It also offers the feature of quick-release that allows you to remove the socket or any extension with a single hand.
Moreover, the set comes with a durable and tough case that provides safety, mobility, and easy storage.
Pros
- A comprehensive set
- Durable and tough-built
- Rust-free
Cons
- Smaller size markings
- A few casing issues
FAQ
Q: What is the best tool set for mechanics?
A: The best tool set is the one that offers wrenches, screwdrivers, adapters, extensions, hex keys, sockets and ratchets all in one. Various companies such as Dewalt, Stanley, and Sunex offer such sets.
Q: Who makes the best quality socket sets?
A: Sunex makes the best quality socket sets of steel alloy, finished with chrome. These high-end tools come with a lifelong warranty.
Q: What is the best size socket set to buy?
A: A 3/8 ratchet and socket set is a versatile and suitable set in most applications. If you deal with both larger and smaller tasks, then you must go for a drive-size socket set.
Q: What is the best mechanic toolset?
A: A portable, easy-to-carry set is always the mechanic’s first choice. Moreover, a budget-friendly and durable toolset that contains a wide variety of useful high-end tools is the best mechanic toolset.
Q: What is the best impact socket set?
A: Sunex offers the best impact socket sets with a vast range of socket sizes, adapter, and extensions.
Q: Can I use impact sockets for everything?
A: It depends upon the availability. If impact sockets are available, yes you can use them to perform any relevant task. These sockets may get out of order faster but still, you can use them for everything.
NAVIGATE OUR Best Socket Sets
- Best Socket SetsBest Socket Sets
- Best Impact Socket WrenchBest Impact Socket Wrench
- Sunex Tools 3580 3/8-InchSunex Tools 3580 3/8-Inch
- Sunex Spark Plug SocketSunex Spark Plug Socket
- MulWark Premium MasterMulWark Premium Master
- Neiko 10083A MasterNeiko 10083A Master
- Stalwart 75-HT4023BStalwart 75-HT4023B
- Stanley STMT71652Stanley STMT71652