After the cordless ratchets made an entry into the market, the main question that most mechanics and technicians have to answer today is which is the best cordless ratchet? A cordless ratchet is one of the versatile tools a mechanic can add to his or her toolbox.
Instead of turning and twisting your nuts and bolts manually, using a ratchet can make it easy while saving you time on every project. No more wastage of time! Nonetheless, buying the best cordless ratchet is a crucial decision that needs an extensive analysis of the brands and models available in the market. For this reason, we made a detailed comparison and list five of the most reliable cordless ratchets that you can consider purchasing.
Best Cordless Ratchets Reviews
Image | Product |
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| Milwaukee 2456-21 M12 ✓ Torque — 30 ft-lbs ✓ No Load Speed — 0-250 rpm ✓ Battery — 12V Li-Ion, 1500-2000 mAh Check Price |
Ingersoll Rand R1120-K1 ✓ Torque — 30 ft-lbs ✓ No Load Speed — 0-260 rpm ✓ Battery — 12V Li-Ion, 2000 mAh Check Price |
|
ACDelco ARW1210-3P ✓ Torque — 57 ft-lbs ✓ No Load Speed — 0-195 rpm ✓ Battery — 12V Li-Ion Check Price |
|
AOBEN 3/8" 12V Power Ratchet ✓ Torque — 26 ft-lbs ✓ No Load Speed — 0-280 rpm ✓ Battery — 12V Li-Ion, 2000 mAh Check Price |
|
VonHaus Cordless Electric Ratchet ✓ Torque — 35 ft-lbs ✓ No Load Speed — 0-280 rpm ✓ Battery — 12V Li-Ion Check Price |
1. Milwaukee 2456-21 M12 — Best Overall Cordless Ratchet
This is a simple and compactly designed cordless ratchet that delivers up to 30 ft-lbs of torque. This torque is delivered by its powerful 12-volt motor. The most outstanding feature of this ratchet is the 250 RPM superior fastening speed that it comes with. For excellent control of this variable speed, this product comes fitted with a trigger. The trigger allows the ratchet to deliver you great performance every time you use it.
Its design features a superior pack construction, electronics, and performance to produce more work power per charge. In fact, it delivers more work over pack life than any battery available on the market today.
Milwaukee’s battery powered ratchet features REDLINK intelligence. Redlink provides optimized performance and overload protection by using complete system communication between the tool, battery, and charger. Its cover is made from a durable material that covers the outer part effectively to protect inner delicate components.
With just 4.15 pounds of weight, this ratchet is easy to work with since you can maneuver around your project without feeling tired. Moreover, the lightness makes the motorized ratchet very convenient for working in tight spaces.
If you are in search of a versatile cordless ratchet that is convenient to use at any project, then we recommend this Milwaukee 2456-21 M12 Cordless 1/4″Lithium-Ion Ratchet Kit.
Kit includes:
Technical specs
- Battery — 12V Li-Ion
- Battery Capacity — 1500-2000mAh
- Torque — 30 ft-lbs
- No Load Speed — 0-250 rpm
- Drive — 1/4 + 3/8 + 1/2 inches
- Weight — 3,97 pounds
- Length — 312 mm
- Features — Variable-speed Trigger, Battery Fuel Gauge, Built-in LED Light
Pros
- It comes with a long-lasting lithium battery
- It is easy to use
- Durable and high performance
Cons
- Lower power output as compared to other brands
- The body seems a bit bulky
2. Ingersoll Rand R1120-K1 — Best Battery Powered Ratchet For Automotive
Ingersoll Company is established in making high-performing power tools, and this Ingersoll Rand R1120-k1 12V cordless ratchet is proof of that. This tool is made versatile to deliver the high performance that you need to complete your mechanical projects.
It features a powerful 12V motor that delivers up to 30 ft-lb of torque with the capability to handle extra-manual torquing whenever needed. The powerful motor is also responsible for delivering 260 RPM fastening speed that is important at loosening and tightening both nuts and bolts.
This electric ratchet wrench features a uniquely designed handle and a padded trigger that permits different comfortable gripping techniques. With the slim-line 12V lithium-ion battery, it is much easier to work within tight places that bigger ratchets can’t reach.
Apart from its high price, this Ingersoll Rand R112 might also have some issues with its gears. It also overheats even on a small project. If you intend to deal with large projects, therefore, we recommend that you consider a different model.
Kit includes:
Technical specs
- Battery — 12V Li-Ion
- Battery Capacity — 2000mAh
- Torque — 30 ft-lbs
- No Load Speed — 0-260 rpm
- Drive — 1/4 inches
- Weight — 2,15 pounds
- Length — 280 mm
- Features — Variable-speed Trigger, All-metal Gear Train
Pros
- It is compact with a durable motor
- Has an excellent power output
- Comes ergonomically designed with a smaller head for tighter car maintenance and repairs
Cons
- Highly-priced
- May have issues with internal gears
3. ACDelco ARW1210-3P — Best Cordless Ratchet For Professional Projects
This ergonomically designed tool is capable of serving professional mechanics who regularly work in tight spaces. The main advantage of the ACDelco cordless ratchet is that it features a powerful 12-Volt motor that delivers 59 ft-lbs of maximum torque (vs the same Milwaukee with only 30ft-lbs). This is capable of producing a high fastening speed. What’s more, it incorporates a fully supported ratchet that ensures a smooth and positive torque control even in very confined working spaces.
It comes fitted with an ergonomically designed handle that allows you to make a quick and light adjustment using minimal efforts in fewer turns. The comfortable handle resists chemicals that are common in the automotive industry environment. At the base of the handle, it features a strong material overlaid with a soft feel grip for a slip-resistant and comfortable holding.
It also features a secure push/pull lock that is intuitive and quick to respond to and prevents any accidental adjustments. This feature improves the accuracy, usage, and longevity of this professional tool. Moreover, it features a variable speed design with reversible control and an electric brake button that deters the occurrence of any unintentional start-ups.
If you are looking for a high-performer cordless ratchet to kick-start your mechanical career or replace your already old ratchet, we recommend that you consider this model.
Kit includes:
Technical specs
- Battery — 12V Li-Ion
- Torque — 57 ft-lbs
- No Load Speed — 0-195 rpm
- Drive — 3/8 inches
- Weight — 2,65 pounds
- Length — 330 mm
- Features — Variable-speed Trigger, Electric Brake Switch
Pros
- Comes with a comfortable ergonomically designed handle
- Has a powerful 12-V motor for greater performance
- Comes with variable speed control to prevent any accidents
Cons
- Might be too expensive for some users
4. AOBEN 3/8″ 12V — Best Cordless Ratchet For The Money
This AOBEN cordless ratchet is made for people who want plenty of torque of about 35Nm to either remove or install bolts or nuts of different sizes. It comes with a powerful motor of 12V to deliver high performance. The motor also delivers a superior fastening speed that attains 280 RPM. The variable-speed trigger is great at controlling this high speed.
This cordless ratchet comes with two batteries, one charger, and 8 bolts of different sizes for loosening or tightening different nuts and bolts. This makes it a great power tool for a professional mechanic who handles different projects.
It also comes fitted with LED light on the front side to light up the dark working places while the other lights on the other side let you see how much power you are left with. It also features a locking switch that prevents unintentional actuation.
If you want guaranteed satisfaction from a cordless ratchet, we believe that this is the right ratchet to invest in.
Kit includes:
Technical specs
- Battery — 12V Li-Ion
- Battery Capacity — 2000mAh
- Torque — 40 ft-lbs
- No Load Speed — 0-280 rpm
- Drive — 3/8 inches
- Weight — 4,77 pounds
- Length — 300 mm
- Features — Variable-speed Trigger, Battery Fuel Gauge
Pros
- 8 different size sockets, 1/4 inch adaptor, and 3-inch extension bar in case
- Great for a professional mechanic
- Reasonably priced
Cons
- Too heavy and bulky
5. VonHaus Electric — Most Flexible Wrench For The Money
This versatile and powerful cordless ratchet comes at a cheap price yet features a high-end 12-volt motor that delivers about 35 ft-lbs of torque. The powerful motor guarantees you an impressive performance when it combines with its compact design and flexibility.
It features a superior fastening speed of 280 RPM with a variable-speed trigger for excellent control and stability when using it. The ratchet wrench also incorporates a wide range of improved features that are designed to improve usability.
It features an anti-slip soft grip that gives you a comfortable grip even in tight places. Moreover, the well-positioned forward and reverse lever allows you to switch between tightening and loosening nuts and bolts easily.
The overload protection is intuitively designed with an inbuilt communication system between the tool, battery, and charger to provide an optimized performance that thwarts overload. With the built-in LED light, you can illuminate the dark working spaces while its onboard fuel gauge monitors its charge, which means that you can keep track of your projects.
If you are looking for a great cordless ratchet with a higher fastening speed and performance at the cheapest price, we recommend VonHause Cordless Electric Ratchet Wrench Set with 12V.
Kit includes:
Technical specs
- Battery — 12V Li-Ion
- Torque — 35 ft-lbs
- No Load Speed — 0-280 rpm
- Drive — 1/4 + 3/8 inches
- Weight — 2,87 pounds
- Length — 391 mm
- Features — Variable-speed Trigger, Battery Fuel Gauge, Built-in LED Light
Pros
- Has a lock-off switch to prevent unintentional starting
- Comes with a built-in LED light to illuminate dark working places
- Has an anti-slip soft grip for comfortable handling
- Comes with an onboard fuel gauge for efficient monitoring of charge
Cons
- The battery doesn’t last long
What to Consider When Buying the Best Cordless Ratchet — Buyer’s Guide
When shopping for a battery-operated ratchet wrench, you will want to get the best model in the market. However, finding the best cordless ratchet is not a walk in the park because it requires conducting extensive research and comparison of various brands and models that are available in the market. To reduce your shopping process, we have set out to provide you with crucial information that you will find relevant in making the final decision of buying a battery ratchet.
Factors to consider when buying a cordless ratchet
Weight and Length of the Ratchet
A cordless ratchet, also known as an electric ratchet wrench, is a powerful hand-held tool. For this reason, it requires to be light, compact, and slim for easy handling and maneuvering when tightening or loosening bolts and nuts. A bulky ratchet will be uncomfortable in your hand and will easily tire you whenever working. Most of the best cordless ratchet wrenches are limited to between 12 inches and 14 inches. When it comes to weight, 3 pounds is a great cut-off for professional ratchet use.
Power, Speed, and Torque
Most battery powered ratchets range from 250 to 300 RPM and 30 to 50 ft-lbs on average torque. When it comes to power, 12V batteries are commonly used even though you can get 20V models for bigger projects that demand higher power. Make sure that you also inquire about the rate at which the ratchet you intend to buy drains battery and its recharge time. This is because ratchets that drain batteries quickly can affect your work time. Consider choosing Lithium-ion batteries that are said to be durable.
Quick Fact
RPM means Revolutions Per Minute. It’s a unit of rotational speed, that displays a number of turns in one minute.
Usability
This is one factor that is very important and requires more consideration. Since it is a power hand tool, it simply feels great in the user’s hand irrespective of the experience. Luckily, the top-rated cordless ratchets come with high-end holding features and an inbuilt shock insulator that significantly reduced vibration while offering comfortable handling. When buying a cordless ratchet, ensure you hold the ratchet you intend to buy and determine whether you can work with it for long without tiring or having trouble maneuvering tight spaces. See whether you can reach the switches and efficiently operate them without any inconvenience.
Flexibility
The flexibility of the cordless ratchet tool you intend to buy is very important, especially if you will need to carry it around to wherever your projects take you. Pick a ratchet that fits a variety of positions while it is also able to reach very tight places. It is for this reason that you must choose to buy a ratchet that is flexible enough for any situation.
Noise Level
Powered tools often produce noise that can be irritating when in use. Noisy electric ratchets can cause headaches if used for some time; they can also lead to the development of ear issues. Moreover, there are places where noise is prohibited by law. As such, when buying your cordless ratchet, be sure to pick one that produces the least noise or operates quietly.
Safety Features
When it comes to powered tools or any other tools for that matter, safety ought to be a top priority. Most top-rated cordless ratchets come with excellent safety features that may include and are not limited to the following.
- Simple to use trigger buttons and safety lockouts
- Reinforced aluminum or steel housing that resist falls and drops
- Efficient LED light for illuminating dark and tight workplaces
- A low profile head design and safety resets
Warranty
This is one of the most overlooked aspects when it comes to buying power tools. A majority of manufacturers offer a maximum of 90-days buyback with a 1-year warranty on cordless ratchets. Nonetheless, if you look for a 3 to 5-year warranty, it will serve to guarantee you the company’s trustworthiness of the tools it produces. Irrespective of the mechanical specifications, be sure to buy a ratchet that is truly recognized in the marketplace and is covered by a better warranty.
Brand
A brand is also an important factor to consider when buying a cordless ratchet. Some brands have built an excellent reputation in the market and this is due to their commitment to producing high-quality cordless ratchets. Furthermore, if you had a great experience with a ratchet from a certain brand, you will most likely choose future tools from that brand.
It is advisable to keep off buying your cordless ratchet from manufacturers that are not recognized in the market since it can be difficult to determine its performance and durability.
Price
When it comes to price, you will definitely get what you pay for. If you are working on a budget, then be sure that your budget will greatly influence the kind of ratchet you will buy. When making your budget, therefore, keep in mind what kind of tasks you are going to use your ratchet on. Is it a DIY project or a professional project?
For a DIY project, you will need a basic cordless ratchet that needs one battery to deliver a great performance. As a result, the ratchet might also be cheap. On the other hand, if you are a mechanic and you want a ratchet for professional use, then you need something versatile with several batteries, bolts, and nuts. This is a bit pricier. If you feel constrained by your budget, however, it is important to choose a ratchet with great safety features over a high-performing one.
Conclusion
Which is your ideal cordless ratchet based on the reviews above? We have extensively reviewed some of the top-rated cordless ratchets in the market as well as outlined the crucial factors to consider when buying a cordless ratchet. We believe this information is of great help in making your final decision in buying a ratchet.
If you purchase the best cordless ratchet, you can be sure that it will improve your productivity. To be knowledgeable about different technologies, subscribe to our blog to benefit from our future product reviews and technologies.
Good luck!
Be sure to check out our other guides on top 1/2-inch drive ratchets and lineman’s pliers.
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.
References
1. Milwaukee Fastening Ratchets Catalog. Milwaukee.
2. Ingersoll Rand Bolting Ratchets Catalog. Nanch.
3. ACDelco Cordless Ratchet Wrenches. Mobletron Electronics Co., Ltd.
4. RPM — unit of rotational speed. Wiki.
Robert B. Martin says
Hey Eugene,
Thanks for this excellent guide. I had been looking for an in-depth review and finally found this article.
I liked the Milwaukee 2456-21 M12 ratchet. It’s lightweight and compact. Nice build quality.
Eugene says
You’re welcome, Robert.
Cicero Strosin says
Love to read this article. Thanks for this great post, I find it very interesting and very well thought out and put together. I look forward to reading your work in the future 🙂
Ryker Mcdermott says
A couple weeks back, I went ahead and purchased the Milwaukee brand cordless ratchet based on your review. It has been a life changer.
I spent WAY too much of my life using a manual ratchet for everything. Looking back, I’m now not sure how I did it, pure ignorance I guess. The point is, these things are an investment that have saved me something more valuable than money: TIME.
Lawrence Barnett says
I have had the 3/8 brushed ratchet since it was released and have done this with it when needed since I bought it with no apparent detriment to the tool as it still works perfectly.
Betsey Scobie says
Hi there, I enjoy reading all of your aгticle. I
like to write a little comment to support you.
Jenifer Hoag says
Thanks, Jenifer Hoag for toolslaboratory.com
Robert says
I didn’t know that we have so many great options to chose from, I bought a generic one from amazon last year, it sometimes creates issues, but I am happy with it. I was looking to buy a another one for my workshop, and after knowing about these products, now I can pick a reliable one. Thanks and great share.