Any tradesman or lover of DIY projects knows a good job requires quality ratchet tools. Whether you’re keener on construction or auto repair, you’re going to need the right tools. You probably know the importance of having ratchets that vary in drive size because, in reality, one size doesn’t fit all.
The best ratchet has the dimensions and torque strength you need for big projects. However, not all drive sizes are created equal. Fortunately, we have put together a guide that includes product reviews to help you find your trusty sidekick.
Best Ratchets Reviews
Though the idea of buying ratchet seems exciting, it can be daunting. There are a lot of ratchets out there with some impressive features. Some of the popular features include 72- tooth heads, quick-release buttons, and the capacity for length extension. Whichever features stand out to you, the list below contains some of the best ratchets that are currently on the market.
Image | Product |
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GearWrench 81306P 120XP ✓ Swing arc — 3° ✓ Length — 422 mm ✓ Weigth — 1,11 pounds Check Price |
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Stanley STMT81208 ✓ Swing arc — 3° ✓ Length — 265 mm ✓ Weigth — 1,3 pounds Check Price |
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Tekton 1492 ✓ Swing arc — 5° ✓ Length — 303 mm ✓ Weigth — 1,5 pounds Check Price |
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Crescent CRW14 ✓ Swing arc — 5° ✓ Length — 377 mm ✓ Weigth — 1,76 pounds Check Price |
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Ampro T29771 ✓ Swing arc — 5° ✓ Length — 300-438 mm ✓ Weigth — 1,9 pounds Check Price |
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Wera 8004 C Zyklop ✓ Swing arc — 5° ✓ Length — 278 mm ✓ Weigth — 1,54 pounds Check Price |
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Dewalt DWMT71805 ✓ Swing arc — 5° ✓ Length — 315 mm ✓ Weigth — 2,4 pounds Check Price |
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E-Z RED Extendable ✓ Swing arc — 5° ✓ Length — 344-500 mm ✓ Weigth — 2 pounds Check Price |
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Steelman Pro 96753 ✓ Swing arc — 5° ✓ Length — 380 mm ✓ Weigth — 4,32 pounds Check Price |
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Ampro T19008 ✓ Swing arc — 5° ✓ Length — 175 mm ✓ Weigth — 0,92 pounds Check Price |
1. GearWrench 81306P 120XP — Best Overall Ratchet
GearWrench has been the top brand for industrial and automotive technicians since 1996. Their 120-tooth ratchets provide above-average durability and strength with 180% ASME torque with a double-stacked pawl. You’ll also notice that the 120 positions with a three-degree arc give you more speed. Furthermore, you can increase access to hard-to-reach spaces with a six-position adjustable, flexible head. The head also contains a ball that keeps your position in place.
What’s also very useful is the ergonomically designed handle that’s long, easy to grip and has a polished chrome finish that makes it easy to clean.
The only downsides would be there’s no release button.
We highly recommend this 1/2-inch drive ratchet because it’s got all the features to complete heavy-duty tasks with efficiency.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 120-tooth
- Swing arc — 3°
- Quick-release — No
- Length — 422 mm
- Weight — 1,11 pounds
- Switcher type — Flip switch
- Handle — Metal
- Handle coating — Polished chrome
- Features — 6-Position flex head
Pros
Ergonomic design
High tooth count add speed, flexibility, and durability
High torque
Easy to clean
Six positions adjustable and flexible head
Longest length (19.9 inches)
Cons
No release button
2. Stanley STMT81208 — Best Ratchet For Under $30
The Stanley STMT81208 is a strong tool that’s ideal for tight and hard-to-reach spaces, which is possible with the dual pawl. With 120 teeth, it gives you more speed than a traditional 60-tooth ratchet.
It’s definitely built with ergonomics in mind. For one, there’s a switch lever to prevent switching accidentally. This feature also means it’s easy to operate this half-inch drive ratchet with just one hand.
The handle is contoured for ease of use and control.
Additional features include a large release button to quickly remove sockets. It’s plated with a stylish black chrome finish that prevents corrosion and rust.
We recommend this ratchet because it’s got some impressive features for easy use, and it’s incredibly inexpensive.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 120-tooth
- Swing arc — 3°
- Quick-release — Yes
- Length — 265 mm
- Weight — 1,3 pounds
- Switcher type — Flip switch
- Handle — Metal
- Handle coating — Black chrome
- Features — Dual pawl mechanism
Pros
Great for hard-to-reach places
Quick-release button
Switch lever
Contoured design
Provides speed
Lifetime warranty
Cons
Shorter handle
3.Tekton 1492 — Best Swivel Head Ratchet
The TEKTON company hails from West Michigan, one of the world’s leaders in manufacturing, Grand Rapids, to be exact. A family-owned business, they value quality over quantity and specialize in innovative tools. Their 1492 ratchet is a great example of innovation.
You might initially notice the thick handle, which was molded with comfort in mind; It has a soft, non-slip grip to increase efficiency. The round head contains 72 teeth with a five-degree arc for tight spaces. A 270-degree swivel round head makes it easy to adjust to the ideal angle you need.
To add, there’s a quick-release feature to which sockets lock to prevent the socket from dropping. Finally, the chrome and molybdenum material prevents corrosion.
We recommend this ratchet for sturdiness, comfort, and maneuverability.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 72-tooth
- Swing arc — 5°
- Quick-release — Yes
- Length — 303 mm
- Weight — 1,5 pounds
- Switcher type — Round
- Handle — Rubber grips
- Handle coating — Polished Chrome
- Features — Swivel Head
Pros
Designed for comfort
Non-slip grip
Easy to adjust
Quick-release
Socket locks in
Corrosion Resistant
Cons
Short handle
Smaller tooth count
4. Crescent CRW14 — Best Deal For A Longer Ratchet
Creators of the first adjustable wrench, Crescent has been manufacturing tools since 1907. Their ratchets and sockets are American National Standards Institute certified.
The Crescent CRW14 1/2-inch is a 72-tooth wrench with 5-degree access that’s quite useful for small areas. It has a bit more length than standard ratchets, allowing for better access to hard-to-reach places.
Its fully polished exterior promotes comfort while the chrome vanadium alloy steel increases longevity and durability.
Users seem to love the quick release button that allows you to remove the socket with the use of one hand. Plus, it comes with a lifetime warranty.
We recommend this ratchet because it’s backed by national standards, a lifetime warranty, and a seasoned brand.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 72-tooth
- Swing arc — 5°
- Quick-release — Yes
- Length — 377 mm
- Weight — 1,76 pounds
- Switcher type — Flip switch
- Handle — Metal
- Handle coating — Polished Chrome
- Features — Flex Head
Pros
Reputable brand
Lifetime warranty
ANSI certified
15.08 inches long
Cons
Maneuverability and durability are not as smooth and long-lasting as some others
Weighs a little more than most (1.77 pounds)
5. AmPro T29771 — Best Extendable Ratchet
AmPro was established in 1984 and manufactures an extensive collection of tools. The AmPro T29001 1/2-inch has a unique adjustable handle that extends from 12 to 17 1/2 inches.
It has six locking positions for better turning. The tool also comes with 72 teeth, making it convenient for tight spaces, and a quick-release button for easy socket removal.
There seems to be some controversy about how the warranty works.
We recommend this tool for its overall leverage and capability to extend.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 72-tooth
- Swing arc — 5°
- Quick-release — Yes
- Length — 300-438 mm
- Weight — 1,9 pounds
- Switcher type — Flip switch
- Handle — Metal
- Handle coating — Polished Chrome
- Features — Extendable handle
Pros
Extends to 17 1/2 inches
Six locking positions
Quick-release
72 teeth
Cons
Warranty is questionable
On the heavier side (2 pounds)
6. Wera 8004 C Zyklop — Best Quirky Design Ratchet
Wera’s goal is to create simple, fun, and safe tools for buyers. They believe in improving tools and are always searching for new ideas. The Zyklop is a 72-tooth ratchet that allows for better reach and tight turns with a 5-degree angle. It comes with a switchover lever that promotes easy socket locking as well as an easy direction change.
The chrome-molybdenum steel adds longevity and durability. And Wera satin finish gives a better grip, than polished chrome handle.
Although the design is slim, it can handle limitless torque.
We recommend this tool for having an innovative style, along with quality. It looks different, but it works like a charm.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 72-tooth
- Swing arc — 5°
- Quick-release — Yes
- Length — 278 mm
- Weight — 1,54 pounds
- Switcher type — Flip switch
- Handle — Metal
- Handle coating — Satin finish nickel-chrome
- Features — Chromium-molybdenum steel
Pros
Stylish design
72 teeth
Switchover lever
Tough chrome-molybdenum build
Cons
Some users report trouble with the locking feature
A little more expensive for the size and features
7. Dewalt DWMT71805 — Competitively Priced Ratchet From a Highly Esteemed Brand
The DWMT71805 is backed by a company with a reputation for high-quality and is the lowest priced ratchet on the list.
Meeting American National Standards Institute standards, this ratchet has 72 teeth with a five-degree arc for tightness and reach. The guide lever makes one-hand use easy while the contoured handle makes it easy to grip and slip-resistant.
This ratchet has all the new standard features for heavy-duty jobs. Plus, it’s backed by one of the best companies in the business. To top it off, it’s the least expensive, so we highly recommend it.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 72-tooth
- Swing arc — 5°
- Quick-release — Yes
- Length — 315 mm
- Weight — 2.4 pounds
- Switcher type — Flip switch
- Handle — Metal
- Handle coating — Polished Chrome
Pros
Esteemed brand
Most affordable
72 teeth
One-hand use
Ergonomic handle with contoured grooves
Cons
Weighs a little more than most on the list (1.73 pounds)
8. E-Z RED 1/2″ Drive Ratchet — Best Ratchet For Extendable Length
Since 1966, E-Z Red has been developing and patenting top-quality tools that have been distributed around the world. Their extendable ratchet has 72 teeth with a 5-degree drive head. It also meets the American National Standards Institute standards.
We recommend this ratchet as a good option for users with a need for versatility. It also comes with many of the new popular standards for a ratchet.
The plastic covered metal handle promotes a good grip and comfort. Finally, a feature that makes this ratchet stand out among the others is the extendable handle; it can extend from 13.75 to 20 inches, making it the longest wrench on the list.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 72-tooth
- Swing arc — 5°
- Quick-release — Yes
- Length — 344-500 mm
- Weight — 2 pounds
- Switcher type — Flip switch
- Handle — Thermal Plastic grips
- Handle coating — Polished Chrome
- Features — Extendable handle
Pros
Extendable
20-inch capability
72 teeth
Meets ANSI standards
5-degree range
Ergonomic handle
Cons
Screws may easily fall out due to no added lubrication
9. Steelman Pro 96753 — Best Ratchet Set
Established in 1984, the Steelman company evolved to be a leader in innovative products. The Pro 96753 set includes three sizes: a 3/8-inch, a 1/2-inch, and a 1/4-inch. Each ratchet is made from highly durable heated chrome-vanadium steel, and they each have extendable handles:
- 1/2-inch drive ratchet extends from 13.5 to 19 inches
- 1/4 extends from 6.75 to 8.75 inches
- 3/8 extends from 9.5 to 13.5 inches
Each has a 180-degree flex head, allowing easier access to places that are hard to reach. The 72- tooth head allows for tighter turns with just a 5-degree angle.
Ergonomics is an added perk. The quick-release gives the option for speed and one-hand use while the polypropylene and TPR handle gives you a comfortable grip.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 72-tooth
- Swing arc — 5°
- Quick-release — Yes
- Length — 380 mm
- Weight — 4,32 pounds
- Switcher type — Flip switch
- Handle — TPR rubber grips
- Handle coating — Polished Chrome
- Features — 180-degree flex head, Extendable handle
Pros
Comes with three ratchets
Each ratchet is extendable.
Ergonomic design
180-degree head
Great for hard-to-reach places
Durable materials
Cons
Does not lock into place
10. AmPro T19008 Micro — Best Lightweight Ratchet
The T19008 isn’t as popular as the T29771, but it has multiple features worth discussing.
It’s made from chrome vanadium steel, increasing its longevity and durability. The 72-tooth head with a 5-degree arc is ideal for small and hard-to-reach places.
This ratchet also has forward and reverse settings, along with a quick-release button for faster, smoother operation.
At 14.7 ounces and 7.8 inches, it’s lighter and shorter than the rest, but it’s worth a try.
This ratchet comes with a lot of features, even with its smaller dimensions. This one’s highly recommended for anyone who needs the efficiency of a ½-inch drive ratchet, but doesn’t need the length.
Technical specs
- Number of teeth — 72-tooth
- Swing arc — 5°
- Quick-release — Yes
- Length — 175 mm
- Weight — 0,92 pounds
- Switcher type — Flip switch
- Handle — Metal
- Handle coating — Polished Chrome
- Features — Extra short handle
Pros
Durable materials
Quick-release button
Lightweight
Forward and reverse operation
Cons
Shorter than others on the list
Your Reliable Best 1Ratchet Buying Guide
More often than not, the ½-inch ratchet is the lonely ratchet that’s a user’s last choice. This is mainly because it’s for the “big boy” projects, involving larger construction materials and vehicles. While a 3/8-inch drive ratchet may perform the same tasks, it lacks the strength of a 1/2-inch.
The ½-inch drive is known for its power, but it’s not the only feature to consider. There are numerous other features you’ll want to look for to get the best ratchet tool. Here are a few to think about:
Quick-Release
This tiny feature could be what determines the final say for some users. There’s no wonder since it makes such a big difference. Every ratchet is designed to hold a socket firmly so that the intended goal of tightening and loosening is accomplished hassle-free. However, once you’re finished with the socket and moving on to a new job, you may run into issues.
The quick-release button drops the socket for the tool’s grasp easily and normally only requires one hand to do so. Without one of these, you’re almost always forced to pull the socket out manually. This seemingly harmless task can add unnecessary time to complete the project at hand.
So, when this feature is available, it’s never easy to turn down.
Tooth Count
Each ratchet comes with tiny teeth that make a clicking sound when you turn it. The number of teeth is important because the number determines how fast and efficiently you’ll be able to work. For instance, working with a high tooth count ratchet, such as 120-tooth, as opposed to a 60-tooth one, means you don’t have to spin the ratchet as many times. This is because there’s less distance between the teeth. This creates a smaller arc.
The lower the number of teeth, the larger the distance between them. This distance adds time and requires more energy to tighten nuts and screws. Therefore, you should search for a ratchet with a higher tooth count if you’re interested in speed.
Today, ratchets are available with varying numbers of teeth, 120 being the highest and least common.
Warranty
Because tools are meant for long-term use, it’s always beneficial to have a good warranty. During its period of use, your ratchet can be subject to dings, chips, and breaks. Having a lifetime warranty ensures that you won’t have to keep spending money on accidents that may occur.
While a lifetime warranty is preferred, some companies may offer limited warranties or guarantees. Be sure to check with the manufacturer to learn more.
Ergonomics
Because of their hard surfaces, ratchets should come with some type of ergonomic design to promote comfort and protect your hands while you work. For instance, padded and covered handles can work to reduce slipping and improve grip. Handle designs may include polypropylene, thermal plastic materials, and anti-slip grooves.
Length And Weight
Most ratchets are constructed with heavy-duty materials, such as chrome, chrome-vanadium steel, and chrome-molybdenum steel. This means that some can be heavy and weighing up to 2 to 3 pounds. Generally, ratchets should weigh below 2 pounds to maintain optimal efficiency.
Furthermore, the length is important for most users. The longer the tool, the better the reach. Some projects call for access to hard-to-reach and hidden areas, so a longer ratchet would be more useful.
Some manufacturers offer extendable ratchets, which have become a hit. They tend to improve job flexibility and reduce the number of tools you need to complete the job.
Finding a quality ratchet that works for your unique needs can be a difficult task. With all the different features and prices, it can be overwhelming and hard to choose. No matter how hard it may be, it’s still best to peruse all of your options to choose the perfect ratchet.
Each tool above has its own character and stands out among the rest. From extendable and retractable handles to quirky designs, ratchets have evolved to become fun and innovative. In the end, no matter which one you choose, we’re sure you’ll have a helper for life.
Good luck!
Be sure to check out our other guides on lineman’s pliers and top bolt cutters.
Infographics — Comparison of the Best Ratchets
The heaviest ratchet.
The longest ratchet.
Easier to fix ratchet.
About the author
Eugene M. Carter is a hobbyist and DIY enthusiast.
He always chooses carefully tools for various DIY and automotive projects. Eugene started this website to share his experience and help pick the right tools worth your time and money.
Pete Davis says
Would like to see the SK tool LP90 as well as the new Milwaulkee unit in this test.
Eugene says
Pete, thanks for the info.
We will definitely test these tools. And if they show a decent result, add to our guide.
Harold Arvin says
This blog about 10 Best 1/2-inch Drive Ratchets — Buyer’s Guide (2020), is a very
usefull and i will share it!
Alex says
i would maybe argue to have husky’s 144 tooth it has a lower arc swing, more teeth and has a no questions asked life time warranty you dont have to ship it in to a facility just bring it to your local home depot
John Swisher says
Where is Snap-on on the list?
Eugene says
If you recommend a certain model from Snapon, we will study it and add to the rating.