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A ratcheting wrench set combines the simplicity of a standard combination wrench with the functionality of a ratchet. These mechanics’ tools have a boxed end that functions as a ratchet, making it easier to loosen and tighten fasteners and work in tight spaces. Ratcheting wrenches typically come in sets that vary from eight to 16 pieces in both metric and SAE sizes.
In an effort to identify the top ratcheting wrench sets, we put five of them to the test, using them to work bolts on a truck and lawn mower. We found that Gearwrench’s 16-piece set offers excellent performance and a nice range of sizes at a DIY-friendly price. Along with those we tested, we also selected three additional sets based on our research into their specs, features, and users’ experiences.
Along with our reviews of the best ratcheting wrench sets, we’ll also break down size, tooth count, and other factors to consider when shopping.
- BEST OVERALL: Gearwrench 16-Piece Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: WorkPro 8-Piece Flex-Head Ratcheting Combination Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST UPGRADE: Milwaukee 144-Position Flex-Head Ratcheting Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR HOME MECHANICS: DeWalt 12-Piece Ratcheting Metric Wrench Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST LONG: Mountain 5-Piece Metric Ratcheting Wrench Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST LARGE: Jaeger 24-Piece Tightspot Ratcheting Wrench Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST DURABLE: Craftsman 11-Piece Metric Ratcheting Wrench Set
↓ Jump to Review - BEST FOR TIGHT SPACES: Klein Tools 8-Piece SAE Ratcheting Combo Wrench Set
↓ Jump to Review - ALSO CONSIDER: ToolGuards 33-Piece Ratcheting Wrench Set
↓ Jump to Review
Ratcheting Wrench Sets Comparison
Our Top Picks
We selected our top picks by weighing the technical features listed above, the versatility of each tool design, the reputations of the manufacturers, and the value for the money. The resulting list features what we believe are the best ratcheting wrench sets on the market, suited for a variety of needs.
Best Overall
Gearwrench 16-Piece Ratcheting Combination Wrench Set
Photo: Amazon
Buy at Amazon
Buy at The Home Depot
What We Like
- Smooth ratcheting makes for quick tightening and loosening
- Narrow profile lets it fit into tight spaces
- Covers a broad range of sizes
What We Don’t Like
- Fixed head limits its versatility
Product Specs
-
Material:
Chromium steel -
Number of pieces:
16 -
Number of points:
12 -
Tooth count:
72
Our Ratings
| Performance | 4.3/5 | Ergonomics | 3.5/5 | Durability | 4.5/5 | Value | 4.7/5 |
Gearwrench has a solid reputation among home and professional mechanics alike, and this set is a good example of why that is. These ratchet wrenches operate smoothly, have a slender shape that fits into tight spaces, and come with a reasonable price tag. Of the ratcheting wrenches we tested, none operated more smoothly than these from Gearwrench. We experienced no slips and very little play between its 72 teeth.
We also liked how slender these ratchets were. Their thin profile made it easier to fit them into tight spots without compromising their strength, although the narrower body is harder on the hand when working with stuck bolts.
Gearwrench advertises a 5-degree swing arc, but with its compact size, we found it was capable of getting into tighter spots than most. This made working bolts inside the engine bay of a truck easy.
The 12-point heads are precision cut and fit snugly onto bolt heads, which helps prevent rounding off. This standard ratcheting wrench set has fixed heads, which does limit its ability to work bolts at odd angles, but that fixed-head design also allows for more torque. All of the pieces fit securely into a holder that can hang on the pegboard above a workbench.
What our tester says: “Gearwrench tools are always well made, and this one is no exception. During testing, the wrenches had a smooth operating action, and their small size made them easy to use.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Gearwrench 16-piece ratchet set at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Bang For The Buck
WorkPro 8-Piece Flex-Head Ratcheting Combination Set
Photo: Amazon
Buy at Amazon
What We Like
- Swiveling heads let users work from odd angles
- Attractive powder-coated finish and gold head
- Similar performance to pricier sets
Product Specs
-
Material:
Powder-coated chrome vanadium steel -
Number of pieces:
8 -
Number of points:
12 -
Tooth count:
72
Our Ratings
| Performance | 5/5 | Ergonomics | 5/5 | Durability | 5/5 | Value | 5/5 |
It’s not difficult to find inexpensive ratcheting wrench sets, but either quality or versatility will sometimes suffer as a result of the lower cost. That’s not the case with WorkPro’s ratcheting wrench set. Made from tough chrome vanadium steel, these tools feature a powder coating rather than the common highly polished finish, and with a bold gold color on the ratchet inserts, they certainly stand out.
This is an SAE set with sizes ranging from 5/16 inch to ¾ inch, which is more limited than some of the large ratcheting wrench sets we tested, but it still covers the most common sizes. During testing, these wrenches held their own with much pricer sets. They have a sturdy feel in the hand, and the 12-point head grips fasten nicely with only minimal play between the wrench and the bolt head. We did wonder if the gold-colored ratcheting head would hold up as well over extended use as the black steel heads that are on most ratcheting wrenches.
The ratcheting action with the WorkPro set isn’t quite as smooth as some of the higher-end brands we tested, but it still works quite well and is more than adequate for most home mechanics. The swiveling heads are a nice feature at this price point. They allowed us to get into tighter spots than is possible with a fixed head wrench. We also liked the soft pouch carrying case these wrenches come in, which is much better suited for a tool box than the hard plastic cases other wrench sets have.
Overall, we could find little fault with these WorkPro ratchet wrenches. And given their price, they’re a great option for home mechanics on a budget.
Get the WorkPro ratcheting wrench set at Amazon.
Upgrade Pick
Milwaukee 144-Position Flex-Head Ratcheting Set
Photo: The Home Depot
Buy at The Home Depot
What We Like
- Low swing arc enables work in tight spaces
- Comfortable “I-Beam” shaft
- Tk corners and ribbed jaws for added grip on open ends
What We Don’t Like
- Premium wrench ratchet costs several times other sets
Product Specs
-
Material:
Chromium vanadium steel -
Number of pieces:
15 -
Number of points:
12 -
Tooth count:
144
Our Ratings
| Performance | 5/5 | Ergonomics | 5/5 | Durability | 5/5 | Value | 4.3/5 |
Milwaukee’s flex-head ratcheting wrench set is an investment, but it would be hard to find a higher-quality set of ratcheting wrenches that home mechanics can readily buy. For starters, Milwaukee’s ratcheting wrenches have 144 teeth, twice as many as most ratcheting socket sets, which equates to a much smaller 2.5-degree swing arc. While the difference may seem small, it can be significant when attempting to work bolts in the tight confines of a car’s engine. Couple that short swing arc with a rotating head, and this set of ratcheting wrenches provides a tremendous ability to work in small spaces.
This set’s highlights aren’t just on the box end. The open end of the wrench has rounded corners to prevent rounding off bolt heads and ribbed jaws that grip fastener heads. These features allowed us to apply more force without fear of pulling the wrench off the bolt. We also liked the “I-beam” shape of these wrenches, which made for a more comfortable grip, especially when applying more force. There are also red ink-filled labels that make it easier for older eyes to spot sizes.
As a superior ratcheting wrench set, this pick also comes with a premium price. It costs several times the price of other sets. That said, for those who spend a good chunk of their weekends underneath the hood of the car, it may be worth springing for the Milwaukee ratcheting wrench set.
What our tester says: “Milwaukee’s tools are pricey, but the quality and performance of these wrenches are head and shoulders above the rest. If you’re a pro or serious home mechanic, they’re worth the investment.”—Tony Carrick, Product Reviews tester and writer
Get the Milwaukee ratcheting set at The Home Depot.
Best For Home Mechanics
DeWalt 12-Piece Ratcheting Metric Wrench Set
Photo: Amazon
Buy at Amazon
Buy at The Home Depot
What We Like
- 15-degree offset head provides clearance
- Smooth-operating ratchets
- Includes storage pouch
What We Don’t Like
- Fewer sizes than some sets
Product Specs
-
Material:
Chromium steel -
Number of pieces:
12 -
Number of points:
12 -
Tooth count:
72
Our Ratings
| Performance | 4/5 | Ergonomics | 4/5 | Durability | 5/5 | Value | 4.5/5 |
DeWalt’s ratcheting wrench set is a great example of why the brand’s hand tools are revered among DIYers. We loved the quality feel of these ratcheting wrenches during testing. The precision-cut heads grip fastener heads firmly to prevent rounding off. We were able to crank away on various fasteners without slipping off the bolt heads.
DeWalt’s ratchets also have a 15-degree offset head, which leaves space for knuckles when accessing bolts in tighter spaces without sacrificing torque like flexible head ratchet wrenches do. While the ratchet wrenches have the standard 72 teeth, the ratcheting mechanism was smooth and reliable during testing. We only wish there were a few more sizes.
The wrenches in this set also feature thinner bodies, allowing them to fit nicely into tighter spaces. We were able to reach into tighter nooks and crannies while still having enough space to ratchet the head.
The attention to detail is notable with this set. Small knurled grip pads on the body allow for extra grip when working tough fasteners, and the switch on the head is within thumb’s reach, so users can change from tightening to loosening on the fly. Plus, all of the wrenches fit into a durable pouch that can roll up and fit in a tool bucket or box. It’s a set that gives home mechanics excellent quality at a very reasonable price.
Get the DeWalt ratcheting wrench set at Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Long
Mountain 5-Piece Metric Ratcheting Wrench Set
Photo: Amazon
Buy at Walmart
What We Like
- Extended length improves reach and torque
- Extended cuff for accessing recessed fasteners
- Double-sided design adds more sizes
Product Specs
-
Material:
Chrome vanadium steel -
Number of pieces:
5 -
Number of points:
12 -
Tooth count:
90
Our Ratings
| Performance | 4.2/5 | Ergonomics | 4/5 | Durability | 4.5/5 | Value | 4.2/5 |
With five pieces included, this extra-long ratcheting wrench set from Mountain is well equipped for reaching fasteners deep inside the engine bay and for creating the force needed to work stuck fasteners.
Its five pieces range in length from 8 millimeters to 18 millimeters and feature raised collars to reach recessed fasteners. They also provide a greater contact area for a more positive hold and have a 90-tooth head and a small 4-degree swing arc.
Those who work on vehicles are bound to run into bolts they can’t loosen with a standard length wrench. Measuring more than twice as long as other ratchet wrenches we tested, these ratchet wrenches are capable of producing greater torque. We were able to free up stuck bolts that shorter wrenches struggled to loosen with relative ease.
This set of ratchet wrenches also features extended cuffs and flexible heads, allowing us to access recessed bolts and work from various angles. We were able to get a ratchet head on several bolts that we wouldn’t have been able to reach with a standard-length wrench.
While there are only five pieces in this set, each wrench is double-sided, so there are actually 10 sizes. Each head has a push-button switch for changing the ratcheting direction. This product is among the higher-priced ratcheting wrench sets, but if your livelihood depends on performance and precision, then they’re worth the investment.
Get the Mountain ratcheting wrench set at Walmart.
More Great Options
Though we didn’t test the following selections ourselves, we used our experience with ratcheting wrench sets, along with research that involved comparing specs and reading dozens of user reviews, to select them.
Best Large
Jaeger 24-Piece Tightspot Ratcheting Wrench Set
Photo: Amazon
Buy at Amazon
What We Like
- Comes with both metric and SAE sizing options
- Dual racked organizers with built-in carrying handles
- Engages the drive at just 4 degrees
What We Don’t Like
- Some ratcheting heads have performance issues
Product Specs
-
Material:
Chrome vanadium steel -
Number of pieces:
24 -
Number of points:
12 -
Tooth count:
90
This 24-piece set from Jaeger Tools offers terrific versatility while remaining surprisingly affordable. For convenience, the two dozen tools are actually separated into two 12-piece sets.
One set is metric with wrenches ranging from 8 millimeters to 19 millimeters, and the other set is SAE with tools ranging from ¼ inch to ⅞ inch. The racked organizers make it easy to grab the needed tool, and fold-out handles allow for convenient carrying. Clear markings near each head help with quick identification, and there is a handy direction arrow for the ratchet as well.
Folks might expect Jaeger to cut corners to keep the price down, with minimum contact points and a coarse tooth count, but this ratcheting wrench set is of high quality. The 12-point box is suitable for multiple fasteners, and 90 teeth provide rapid engagement within 4 degrees.
Get the Jaeger ratcheting wrench set at Amazon.
Best Durable
Craftsman 11-Piece Metric Ratcheting Wrench Set
Photo: Amazon
Buy at Lowe’s
Buy at Amazon
Buy at Ace Hardware
What We Like
- Narrow profile can fit into small spaces
- Etched sizes are easy to read
- Grip points on the sides of each wrench
What We Don’t Like
- Doesn’t come with a carrying case
Product Specs
-
Material:
Chromium steel -
Number of pieces:
11 -
Number of points:
12 -
Tooth count:
72
Craftsman has always been well regarded for the quality of its hand tools, and for good reason. They’re typically durable and very well designed, and this ratchet wrench set has all the hallmarks of that Craftsman quality.
They feature a chrome polish finish and a 72-tooth ratcheting box end with a short swing arc that’s on par with pricier ratcheting wrenches. All of the wrenches also have a narrow profile, which makes them easier to use in tighter confines. There are also some thoughtful details, including hash boxes on the sides of each wrench that serve as grip points and large markings on the sides for easy identification. The only thing missing is a carrying case.
Get the Craftsman ratcheting wrench set at Lowe’s, Amazon, or Ace Hardware.
Best For Tight Spaces
Klein Tools 8-Piece SAE Ratcheting Combo Wrench Set
Photo: Amazon
Buy at Amazon
Buy at Lowe’s
What We Like
- Short swing arc for working in tight spaces
- Color coding makes identifying sizes easy
- Flat shape makes it easier to grip
Product Specs
-
Material:
Steel -
Number of pieces:
8 -
Number of points:
12 -
Tooth count:
90
Klein’s set of ratcheting wrenches offers the ability to work in tighter spots without having to spring for a premium set. Each wrench features a 90-tooth ratchet mechanism, giving it a shorter swing arc than most ratcheting wrenches at this price point. They also have a wide and flat body with a depression for a thumb, making them more comfortable to hold.
Laser markings and color coding on the end of each tool make it easier to find the right size wrench. While this set comes with just eight sizes, it includes those most commonly used. Plus, all eight pieces fit in a pouch that can roll up for easy transport in a tool box.
Get the Klein ratcheting combo wrench set at Amazon or Lowe’s.
Also Consider
ToolGuards 33-Piece Ratcheting Wrench Set
Photo: Amazon
Buy at Amazon
What We Like
- Comes with both SAE and metric wrenches
- Made with a universal 12-point construction
- Highly durable construction
What We Don’t Like
- Comes with a steep price tag
Product Specs
-
Material:
Chrome vanadium steel -
Number of pieces:
33 -
Number of points:
12 -
Tooth count:
72
This comprehensive set from ToolGuards includes 33 ratcheting wrenches conveniently divided into two sets. There are 15 SAE wrenches, ranging from ¼ inch up to 1 inch, and 18 metric wrenches, ranging from 6 millimeters to 24 millimeters. These collections are more extensive than what shoppers would normally find in a ratcheting wrench set, providing the enthusiast with tools that will work on less common fastener sizes.
The wrench boxes in this set are the 12-point universal type, allowing for a secure grip on 6-point, 12-point, Spline, E-Torx, and square fasteners. They also feature a 72-tooth design, which requires only 5 degrees of action to engage the drive.
The set also employs chrome vanadium steel for each ratcheting wrench, which makes the wrenches virtually unbreakable despite their slender profile.
The wrenches feature a mirror finish for easy cleaning and corrosion resistance, and they are housed in individual SAE and metric tool rolls, each pocket clearly marked with the corresponding ratchet wrench size for easy identification. While the full ratcheting wrench set may be more than the average person needs, it’s an excellent cost value overall.
Get the ToolGuards ratcheting wrench set at Amazon.
How We Chose and Tested the Best Ratcheting Wrench Sets
| Products tested | 5 |
| Time spent testing | 3 hours |
| Tests performed | 3 |
| Price range | $65 to $300 |
After extensive product research, we included eight options in our list of top picks for professionals and DIYers alike. We searched for ratcheting wrenches from reputable brand names, as well as products that generally stood out for their glowing customer reviews. Many of the options we landed on had similar features: they engage driving force with just 4 to 5 degrees of movement, have 12 points, and come with 72 to 144 teeth.
We also wanted to include a variety of options with user-friendly features, including reversible ratcheting wrench sets, embossed sizes on the handles, raised rollers, 180-degree heads, and carrying cases or pouches for safe storage.
Of the eight sets we chose, we put five of them to the test, using each to tighten and loosen 10 to 15 bolts on a truck and a lawnmower. While testing, we considered how quickly we were able to tighten loose bolts and how comfortable each wrench felt in the hand. We also evaluated build quality and smoothness of operation.
What to Consider When Choosing a Ratcheting Wrench Set
Ratcheting wrench sets are an ideal option for home mechanics who may not want to invest in a large socket set but want the functionality that one offers. Before shopping for the best ratcheting wrench set for your needs, dig into the following list of considerations to gain a fuller picture of the factors to keep in mind while deciding on the most appropriate tools for your particular projects.
Material
All ratcheting wrenches are made from steel alloys, but the composition of those alloys can vary. While carbon steel is sometimes cited as strong, all steels are technically carbon-iron alloys, so the term can be a bit ambiguous. Most high-quality ratcheting wrenches are made from either chrome vanadium (Cr-V) or chrome molybdenum (Cr-Mo) steel. Some models are described more generally as being made from chromium steel—a term that may refer to steel alloys containing chromium for added hardness or corrosion resistance. Cr-V and Cr-Mo both increase the strength of the steel and make it ductile, which is the ability to absorb shock without breaking. Chemically, there is little difference between the two types of steel, though Cr-Mo tends to be more expensive.
Ratcheting wrenches are often left uncoated, but manufacturers sometimes apply a layer of either chrome or nickel coating to make them more rust-resistant and easier to clean. They are also frequently polished to a mirror-like finish, but they can be produced in specific colors as well. These finishes do not detract from the quality of a ratcheting wrench, so the choice is a matter of personal preference.
Number of Pieces
The best ratcheting wrench sets on the market are often those that provide just the right number of pieces a user needs. A five-piece set might not offer enough variety, while a 24-piece set that contains metric or SAE-standard tools (the latter being units of measurement defined by SAE International, most commonly used on automotive and construction tools) is probably cost-effective only for professionals. For that very reason, 8-piece to 12-piece sets are what you’ll find in the average garage. Keep in mind that standalone ratcheting wrenches are available for purchase if a more unusual size is necessary for a particular project.
Number of Points and Tooth Count
The ratchet box of a ratcheting wrench—also called the head—has two important features: the number of points and the tooth count.
A 6-point box was the early standard because hexagonal fasteners are the most common. However, square, Torx, and other shaped fasteners didn’t align with the 6-point design, so the 12-point box—also called a universal box—was introduced.
The tooth count defines the arc the tool has to swing through to engage the ratchet pawls, and thus turn the fastener. Coarse-toothed ratcheting wrenches can have as few as 30 teeth, meaning the wrench has to travel through 18 degrees to apply pressure, which is difficult to achieve in confined spaces. Fine-toothed ratcheting wrenches max out at 144 teeth, requiring just 2.5 degrees of travel to achieve a full 360-degree turn, though they are more prone to damage. A 72-tooth ratcheting wrench is a good compromise, requiring only 5 degrees of movement.
Although a ratcheting wrench with a high tooth count allows for tremendous control, these tools shouldn’t be used as a substitute for a torque wrench on items like cylinder heads when users need precise pressure readings.
Wrench Design
Most ratcheting wrenches look quite similar, but small variations between them can make a big difference. The most common design has an open wrench on one end and a ratchet on the other end. The reason for this design is that although ratcheting wrenches are strong, an extreme load could damage the mechanism, so if users encounter a nut that they can’t shift with moderate pressure they can use the open end to loosen it slightly. On the other hand, ratcheting wrenches with ratchets on both ends do give users twice the number of sizes; these are a solid option if a buyer already owns a full set of ordinary wrenches.
Depending on the model, a flex head ratchet wrench can pivot up to 180 degrees, giving users the flexibility to reach fasteners at awkward or tight angles. Keep in mind, though, that care is needed when working with these since they can fold and potentially cause injury if too much force is applied. Some models also feature a small switch that lets users reverse the ratcheting direction without lifting the wrench off the fastener.
Finally, there are both stubby ratcheting wrench sets for when space is very limited and long-reach ratcheting wrench sets, which allow users to apply extra torque with minimal effort.
Versatility
Sometimes a particular type of wrench is necessary for a specific job. When tackling a home plumbing project, for example, a strap wrench prevents damage to softer brass and plastic fittings. When choosing the best ratcheting wrench set for your needs, however, you will want to maximize the number and variety of fasteners with which you can work.
The first purchasing option is to buy the set with the most wrenches. The drawback to this decision is that buyers might be paying for wrenches they will never use.
The second option is to choose a ratcheting wrench set that includes both SAE tools that use an inch (or imperial) scale and metric tools that use a millimeter (or metric) scale. With a versatile ratcheting wrench set, users can work on a classic muscle car that was made in America, a lawn mower that was made in Europe, and kids’ bicycles that were made in China.
Storage
Some of the least-expensive ratcheting wrench sets come as loose collections, but they can become jumbled in the tool box, leading to frustration when users are trying to grab the right tool for their current project or damage. Aftermarket wrench organizers are available and inexpensive, but most quality ratcheting wrench sets usually include storage that allows for easy portability and clear organization.
Another storage option is a tool roll, which is compact and easy to carry. Modern versions are usually hard-wearing polyester. They also allow quick access, and their flexibility means they can be laid across uneven surfaces.
Hanging racks have also become a popular storage option. These are tough plastic organizers that often feature a carrying handle. With these, users don’t need to roll and unroll them like a tool roll. While they are convenient, the trade-off is that the wrenches are less protected.
Finally, cases are a solid storage option to consider. Cases are usually constructed with thermoformed plastic. They maximize protection and offer good organization, but they take up more space than rolls or racks, which is perhaps why they’re less common.
FAQs
Now that you have a more thorough understanding of how ratcheting wrenches work, the benefits they offer, and the multitude of available options and features, you may have some questions. We’ve posed some of the most frequently asked questions and included their corresponding answers below.
There are several differences between a ratcheting wrench and a socket. First, a ratcheting wrench is much more slender, so it can fit into tight spaces where sockets can’t go. Second, on a socket, the drive is in the handle, which is separate and can come apart while working. On a ratcheting wrench, the drive is contained within the tool. Third, a ratcheting wrench can pass over a threaded bar to a nut, but that is not physically possible with a socket.
Absolutely. One of the big advantages of a ratcheting wrench is that it can fit in the same small gap as an ordinary wrench while providing a more secure hold on the nut or bolt.
The tooth count on a ratcheting wrench dictates how far the wrench has to move to engage the drive and, thus, apply pressure to the fastener. More teeth mean the tool has to swing through a smaller arc. For example, a 36-tooth ratchet needs to move 10 degrees to engage, while a 72-tooth ratchet only has to move 5 degrees.
The most popular size for a standard ratchet is ⅜ inch. This medium-size wrench, which sits between a ¼-inch and ½-inch ratchet, is considered the most commonly used size for automotive work. The ratchet size can take the most common socket sizes. It’s also long enough to create enough torque for most demands while still being small enough to fit into tighter spaces.
Different wrench types serve different purposes, so whether a longer wrench is better or not depends on the application. The increased leverage offered by a longer wrench allows you to create greater torque for removing stuck nuts. A longer wrench can help with reaching wrenches in harder-to-reach spots. That said, a longer wrench may be awkward to use in places where there is very little room to fit and turn a wrench.
Meet the Tester
Tony Carrick is a freelance writer specializing in home improvement, landscaping, technology, home security, and design. With each review, his goal is to help readers determine whether a product meets their needs and if it is or isn’t worth its price tag.
Additional research provided by Bob Beacham.
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