6 Best Socket Sets (2023 Guide)

A socket set provides DIYers with a range of sockets to secure various fasteners and extract stripped screws.

To help you find a kit that fits your fastening needs, our team researched the best socket sets on the market today. Here are our top picks.

Top 6 Socket Sets

• Best Overall: DEWALT 142-Piece Tool Kit and Socket Set
• Best Mechanic’s Set: DEWALT 205-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
• Best Basic Set: Neiko 65-Piece Socket Set
• Most Affordable Set: MIXPOWER 48-Piece Deep Impact Socket Set
• Best Portable Set: GearWrench 35-Piece MicroDriver Set
• Best Oversized Set: Neiko 10-Piece 12-Point Socket Set

Best Socket Set Overall

Pros and Cons

✔ Uses DirectTorque technology for better gripping and to prevent rounding of fasteners
✔ Is available in multiple set sizes
✔ Come with hand-stamped markings

✘ May be heavy to carry around to multiple worksites
✘ Some customers felt the tools did not come well oiled

What Customers Are Saying

Customers we found raved about the sturdiness, durability, and size of this DEWALT set. On the other hand, negative reviews highlighted that this socket set lacked the necessary pieces for complicated projects. Some sets even came with missing parts.

Best Mechanic’s Socket Set

Pros and Cons

✔ Tools have a corrosion-resistant chrome finish
✔ Comes with an anti-slip screwdriver
✔ Has extension bars for tightening hard-to-reach bolts

✘ May have too many tools for those only looking for a basic set
✘ Some customers felt the ratchets were gritty

What Customers Are Saying

Customers we found liked that the set of sockets included a lifetime warranty and that the sockets were clearly labeled. Many also pointed out that the sockets were easy to pull out of the case. Negative reviews pointed out that some of the ratchets didn’t feel well-oiled. Some customers also received a deformed case, which made their sockets fall out easily.

Best Basic Socket Set

Pros and Cons

✔ Includes both shallow and deep sockets
✔ Comes with 6-point sockets for a better grip on nuts and bolts
✔ Is available in several different-sized packs

✘ Has fewer tools than many other socket sets
✘ Is heavy at nearly 35 pounds

What Customers Are Saying

Our team noted that several customers recommended this socket set because of its sturdy build. Positive reviews also highlighted that the set didn’t skip any socket sizes. Unsatisfied customers pointed out that the storage case wasn’t as high-quality as the tools it stored.

Most Affordable Socket Set

Pros and Cons

✔ Made of drop-forged and heat-treated chrome vanadium steel
✔ Reinforced with a black phosphate finish for long-term durability
✔ Features a 6-point opening and radius corner design to reduce wear and increase torque

✘ Doesn’t include a ratcheting tool or wrench
✘ The latch on the plastic carrying case may break easily

What Customers Are Saying

The majority of customers who reviewed this 58-piece socket set were satisfied with the durability, clear labeling, and overall performance of the set. They also appreciated that the set came in both metric and SAE sizing. We also found that some unhappy customers mentioned that the laser-etched labeling didn’t come as advertised on each socket. One user added that the plastic carrying case broke easily.

Best Portable Socket Set

Pros and Cons

✔ The ratchet tool adapts for both 5/16-inch bits and 1/4-inch drive sockets
✔ The microdriver delivers up to a 6-degree swing arc
✔ The screwdriver bits use an internal bit feature for improved fastener retention

✘ Comes with fewer socket options than other socket sets on the market
✘ Some customers complained about the durability of the storage case

What Customers Are Saying

Positively, users valued the lightweight and compact qualities of this socket set. Given the set’s modest price, we also noted the majority of happy reviewers also thought that it was excellent value, adding that it was a handy set to have around the home for simple, light-duty jobs. Conversely, we also noted that there were several complaints about the low quality of the plastic carrying case, as some customers experienced a broken lid.

Best Oversized Socket Set

Pros and Cons

✔ Includes a black phosphate coating for increased protection against corrosion
✔ Designed for high-torque applications
✔ Made of forged, premium chrome molybdenum steel

✘ Primarily intended for automotive or front-axle work
✘ Pricey given its niche application

What Customers Are Saying

We found that ustomers who work on their own vehicles or as professional mechanics found this oversized socket set to be reliable in working on automotive axles, CV joints, and other related components. They added that the sockets were easily compatible and held up to extreme torque forces using an impact driver. On the other hand, one user thought that the 35mm socket was too thick, and one customer received a partially used set from the manufacturer.

Buying Guide for Socket Sets

From socket shape to quantity, here are several factors that we think are the most important to consider before buying a socket set.

Materials

Chrome vanadium steel is the most popular material for a variety of tools, including sockets. To reinforce the steel and prevent corrosion, manufacturers may use a phosphate-based coating. The material of the socket affects how long it’ll hold shape and stand up to the torque of a socket wrench or impact driver. For the best results, you should use the appropriate tool given the socket set you choose.

Measurement System

Socket sets are measured in either metric or SAE sizing. “SAE” is short for the Society of Automotive Engineers. Though metric sizing for socket sets is far more common around the world compared to the United States, SAE socket sets are still widely available. Many sets come with both SAE and metric sockets, while smaller sets may only come with one type, plus an adapter.

Number of Pieces

A socket set is usually described by the number of pieces it contains. These pieces can include tooth ratchets, sockets, and many other tools and accessories. Set sizes can range from as few as 50 pieces to as many as 200.

Socket Shape

Sockets are divided into 6- and 12-point models. Six-point sockets apply the tightening force to a bolt’s flat surface, making them more effective and less likely to slip than their 12-point counterparts. While 6-point sockets are more durable, 12-point sockets can tighten hard-to-reach fasteners at any angle.

Accessories

Some socket sets come with additional accessories that help you tighten fasteners in a variety of ways. These accessories can include screwdrivers, Allen wrenches, socket extensions, ratchets, adapters, and more.

Organization

While most socket sets come in a hard case you can also opt put your sockets in a socket organizer for easier access.

Understanding the Difference Between Common Socket Types

• Standard (Six-Point) Sockets: Six-point sockets are the most common type of socket and have six points (or flats) on the inside. They provide a good grip on fasteners and are less likely to slip or round off the corners.
• Deep Sockets: Deep sockets have a longer reach, allowing them to access fasteners in deeper recesses. They are useful for working with long bolts or threaded rods.
• Impact Sockets: Impact sockets are specifically designed to withstand the high torque produced by impact wrenches and power tools. They are made of tough and durable materials to handle heavy-duty applications.
• Spark Plug Sockets: Spark plug sockets have a rubber or foam insert that helps hold and protect spark plugs during installation or removal. They are usually longer and have a hexagonal or specialized shape to fit spark plugs.
• Universal or Swivel Sockets: Universal sockets have a swivel joint that allows them to pivot and adapt to different angles. They are helpful when working in tight or awkward spaces where a straight socket may not fit.
• Torx Sockets: Torx sockets are designed to fit Torx screws, which have a six-point star-shaped pattern. They are commonly used for automotive, electronic, or machinery use.
• Allen (Hex) Sockets: Allen sockets, also known as hex sockets, are used with Allen or hexagonal screws and bolts. They are often found in furniture assembly, bicycle maintenance, and machinery.

Frequently Asked Questions About Socket Sets

What is a pass-through socket?

A pass-through socket is equipped with a hollow ratchet head that can pass through long, threaded bolts to loosen the attached nut.

What is the advantage of a 12-point socket?

While less durable and powerful than a 6-point socket, a 12-point socket can more effectively make contact with a bolt, particularly ones that are in tight spaces.

What is the best brand for socket sets?

The best brand for socket sets varies depending on whether you’re using your socket set for light-duty fixes around the home versus heavy-duty automotive work. DEWALT and Craftsman are reputable tool brands that produce solid socket sets. Other reputable socket set manufacturers include Neiko, Milwaukee, Stanley, and WORKPRO.

How are socket sets measured?

Typically, socket sets are measured in both imperial and metric units. In general, the drive size is a measurement in inches of the drive head that attaches a socket to a ratchet, while the socket itself is measured in millimeters.

Who This Socket Set Guide Is For

If you’re a first-time DIYer, a seasoned contractor, or somewhere in between, a socket set is an essential part of any toolkit. Our Reviews Team considered a variety of socket sets, including an oversized, do-it-all collection like the DEWALT 205-Piece Mechanics Tool Set, a starter kit like the Neiko 65-Piece Socket Set, and everything in between. 

How We Selected the Best Socket Sets

To provide our readers with the best socket set recommendations possible, we rely on several key sources of information to help guide our selection process.

Initial Research: Our research process began by generating a list of socket sets with a significant number of verified-buyer reviews and an average customer review rating of 4–5 stars. We looked at positive and negative reviews alike, focusing on information from both satisfied and critical buyers. 

Expert Insights: Through our years of experience, we’ve learned that listening to what others have to say is key to building accurate, well-rounded articles. To complement our in-house expertise, our team looked at reviews and videos from trusted publications and independent testers, spoke with subject matter experts, and drew insights from reader contributions.

Final Product Selection: We then began fine-tuning our list by replacing older models with the latest versions and eliminating any discontinued models. From there, we pared the list down further by comparing each model’s feature-set and selecting the best-in-class options for a variety of buyers, budgets, and scenarios.

Why You Can Trust Us

This Old House has empowered homeowners and DIYers for more than four decades with top-notch home improvement advice in the form of television programs, print media, and digital content. 

Our team focuses on creating in-depth product and service review content. To date, we’ve published numerous tool reviews, from cordless drills and impact drivers to tape measures and laser levels.

Once we conclude our research, we craft a comprehensive, user-friendly article of recommended products and additional information to help our readers make the right purchase.

Questions or Comments?

To share feedback or ask a question about this article, send a note to our Reviews team at reviews@thisoldhousereviews.com.