Best Impact Sockets Reviewed & Rated for Quality
Every handyperson loves doing car maintenance all on its own. You get to be proud of your work and show off your perfect vehicle. It can be quite relaxing too, if you’re not repairing serious damage, of course! Now, it’s very important that you have all the necessary tools and accessories for the job, right? You probably have a set or two of first-class hand and power tools stored in your garage. They are always at hand’s reach, ready for all daily situations. But things are not so simple when it comes to having the right set of accessories. We tend to forget some crucial pieces that allow us to do automotive repairs in the first place! For example, everybody has a wrench and many replacement bolts and nuts. This is great, but how do you intend to use them if you don’t have impact sockets?
The most common mistake among all handypersons is relying on the old set of regular sockets. Only when we get to the repair process we realize that it hasn’t been updated for ages! We are missing some crucial sizes to the job properly. What should we do, you may ask? Well, the answer is simple, we get a new set to complement our equipment! Still, things turn out to be more complicated then we thought. Finding a new product is not an easy task. These days, the market is full of all kinds of stuff, which makes you want to stick with already tried products. They are safe and reliable, and you are familiar with all their pros and cons. Why should you take the risk that comes with a new brand? Because you can replace your old set of sockets with better, modern version! It would give you more efficiency and reliability during every use. Not to mention how they ease the process and save you quite some free time! What we recommend actually is getting an impact socket set!
Featured Impact Sockets
- Stanley 97-126
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Our rating - Compact
- Price: See Here
- Sunex 3342
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Our rating - Versatile
- Price: See Here
- Tekton
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Our rating - Unique
- Price: See Here
Why should I get impact sockets, you may ask? Firstly, because they are designed for power tools and therefore, easier to use. Secondly, they are more efficient in removing seized nuts. You get the combination of power and versatility to tackle any automotive repair in a breeze! If you’re eager to find out more, you can scroll down and go through our list. We prepared the reviews of the 10 best sets you can find on the market. Not only that you’ll find the best impact wrench sockets but useful tips as well. We tried to provide all the information you need to find the perfect product for your garage! Let’s start with:
10 Best Impact Sockets
Stanley 97-126
This is an 11-piece set. It’s perfect for beginners and those who need to complement their old sets of sockets. They feature a hex design that improves the grip on the fasteners. This will help you remove seized nuts and bolts in a breeze. To cut long story short, this socket set is perfect for everybody! It’s efficient, handy, and versatile. Who could possibly ask for more?
Just keep in mind that this one is missing some of the crucial sizes. Most users need 15, 18, and 20mm, and they are not included in the package! That being said, we can’t complain too much considering that the product comes at an attractive price.
Durable
People reported using this set for many years! The tools are made from sturdy alloy steel and feature a black powder coat finish. We don’t have to tell you how durable they are! The steel makes them super sturdy and protected from high impact while the black coat makes them rust and corrosion resistant. Also, you’ll get all the pieces in a quality case. You can use it for transportation and storage.
Cost and Value
As we mentioned above, this one comes at an attractive price. We think it's a real steal despite the lack of some sizes. It’s a perfect little set for beginners and entry-level jobs. Professionals could use it too if they want to complement their big sets. All in all, it's a quality product suitable for different jobs and professions. You can't go wrong with Stanley!
Quality 11-pieces set
Hex design for a better grip
Easy to use
Alloy steel and black powder coat finish
Very durable
Cheap
Missing 15, 18, and 20 mm
Sunex 3342
This set comes with 42 pieces! Yes, you read it right. It includes SAE sizes (5/16 to ¾ inches) and metric sizes (10 to 19mm). This size range allows you to work on different bolts and nuts. Also, all sockets are designed to help you tighten and loosen the fasteners with great ease. Even the professionals use this set with joy. They actually say that Sunex is one of the best they have ever tried!
We should only warn you that some buyers have issues with the sizes. It seems that they got two or three tools in the same size instead of two or three different ones. Be aware that this might happen to you too!
Sturdy yet Flexible
We were quite impressed by the durability of this one. All pieces are made from CR-MO alloy steel. This means that they are sturdy and flexible enough to be used with a power tool. It also means that you get to use them for a long time because they are super durable! You’ll find the included case quite convenient as well.
Cost and Value
Although it’s not the cheapest option out there, Sunex does come at a reasonable price. We highly recommend it to all mechanics and hobbyists out there. It’s hard to beat the value it provides for the money. You just need to try it out once, and you’ll completely fall for it!
42 pieces in many sizes
Easy to use
Durable
Made of alloy steel
Quality case
Reasonable price
Issues with sizes
Tekton
This is a medium set that includes 14 sockets. It comes in many sizes, allowing you to work on different fasteners. Each one of them is designed to grip fasteners with such an ease that you’ll be amazed! They work on flat sides and not only corners which makes them more efficient. The extra-deep broach can grip longer fasteners as well, which is a nice addition.
High-Quality Steel
These pieces are made from high-quality steel. They are resistant to rust and corrosion thanks to the black powder coat finish. Not to mention how well they can endure high impact and other harsh conditions. You’ll definitely find them useful for many years. Also, you’ll get a handy case to transport your new sockets and store them at your convenience!
We only have one gripe with this set. It doesn’t include some sizes! For example, you’ll have to buy a 16 mm one separately, and it won’t fit the nice box you’ll get. Carefully read the product’s description and make sure that all sockets come in sizes that you need!
Cost and Value
Tekton is not only one of the best-quality sets but it’s also among the cheapest ones! Of course, we are talking about compact sets. Tekton doesn’t offer 40-50 pieces like big sets, but you’ll get an incredible value, that’s for sure. Some people don’t need big sets, after all, so this one turns to be a perfect solution!
14 pieces
Efficient
High-quality steel
Rust and corrosion resistant
Durable
Cheap
Lacks some sizes
EPAuto
As we mentioned above, this set includes 69 pieces. Yes, you read it right! You’ll get many sockets to help you with all kinds of fasteners. They are easy to use, efficient, and made of quality materials. Seems like a perfect product, right?
Alloy Steel
These sockets are made from alloy steel. They are very sturdy and durable, so you won’t have any issues using them with power tools. The corrosion-resistant coating also contributes to the durability of every piece.
The only downside comes from the poorly designed case. The tools don’t snap in place. They rather lay down loosely, so if you open the box on the wrong side you’ll make a real mess! Make sure not to open the case on the side or to turn it upside down.
Cost and Value
We had a hard time believing that such a valuable set comes at an attractive price. Yet it is all true! You can easily make this incredible set a part of your tool equipment. We definitely recommend it to every professional and DIYer out there!
69 pieces
Easy to use
Efficient
Made from alloy steel
Durable
An attractive price
Poorly designed case
Tacklife
This set includes 15 pieces that go from 10 to 24 mm. It has all the sizes in between, which makes them stand out from the competition. Most of the other compact sets lack at least two crucial sizes. Also, they are designed to withstand high impact and help you with all kinds of seized fasteners.
More Protection
These are made from high-quality steel which makes them very durable. They also feature a black phosphate finish. This makes them rust and corrosion-resistant and perfect for power tools. You’ll definitely use them for quite some time! We also liked the case that comes with this one. It offers a snap-in design preventing tools to fall off!
Cost and Value
Now, as much as we love this set, we have to say it’s a little pricey. It’s just that it offers only 15 pieces and costs like some bigger sets. We do like that it comes in many sizes, though. So, if you have a few more bucks to spend, we say go for it!
15 pieces
From 10 to 24 mm
Sturdy and durable construction
Rust and corrosion resistant
Great case
A little pricey
Neiko 02443A
Neiko offers a set of 38 pieces. All of them feature a 6-point drive design for more efficiency. Also, they come in both deep and shallow length. This allows you to use them on a wide range of fasteners.
We only have to notice that this set does lack some crucial sizes such as 20 mm. It would be nice to have some of them included in the big set like this! You’ll definitely need them when working on your vehicle’s bolts and nuts.
Great Storage Case
All pieces are made from quality chrome vanadium steel. This material can withstand quite a lot! It’s protected from high-impact as well as from corrosion and rust. We also liked the fact that it comes in a sturdy case. Actually, it’s one of the best we have seen! It offers a convenient handle for transportation and a snap-in system. It keeps all the pieces firmly on their place and well organized!
Cost and Value
You’ll have to add some cash to get Neiko, we admit it. Still, it’s a big case with a lot of sockets. Not to mention how durable they are. Therefore, we think that Neiko is worth every penny!
38 pieces
Specially designed for more efficiency
Versatile
Made from quality steel
One of the best cases on the market
Lacks several sizes
Some might find it pricey
Dewalt DW22812
Dewalt is a compact set that offers 10 pieces. It’s not an impressive number, we admit it, but it’s perfect for DIYers. The pieces come in the most commonly used sizes to let you tackle all automotive repairs. They are quite versatile as well. You can use them on cordless and corded impact drivers and wrenches.
First-Class Material
Thanks to the first-class material these pieces prove to be very durable. They can withstand high-impact without any changes in the form. You can use them for a variety of fasteners and achieve perfect results in no time. We only wish for it to come in more sizes, but those who are looking for a compact set will be thrilled with it!
While the sockets are truly perfect, we have to notice that the case is badly designed. The tools tend to fall off and the box turns out to be rather heavy. Keep in mind that it could take more storage space. Also, it’s not the perfect option for those who intend to transport the case.
Cost and Value
We have to notice that this one is on the expensive side considering that it offers only 10 pieces. Don’t get this in the wrong way, we still think it gives great value for the money. It’s just that some people will opt for cases with more sockets that cost the same!
Efficient and reliable
Versatile
First-class material
Durable
Compact
The case could be better
Pricey
Gearwrench 84934N
The set includes 19 pieces. Both professionals and DIYers all over the market are praising its quality. The included sockets are made from high-quality materials. This allows for more efficiency and easy use. When the sockets are super strong everything goes smoothly!
Sturdy Construction
All included sockets are made from alloy steel. They are super strong and durable, so you can use any power tool on them. In a few simple movements, you’ll be able to tighten or loosen any nut or bolt. Also, Gearwrench is safe for use on both power and hand tools. You’ll get an amazing transportation case as well. It’s very sturdy so you can store and carry your tools around at your convenience.
Cost and Value
The biggest drawback with this product is definitely its price. Compared to the previously reviewed models, this one will cost you an arm and a leg! Still, if you feel like you would like to try it out, you should definitely go for it. Most buyers are very satisfied with the purchase and they would buy the product again in the future!
Versatile
Easy to use
Made from alloy steel
Durable
Comes with a great case
Expensive
Casoman
Casoman offers 38 pieces. As you can see, it’s a big set that proves to be useful in many situations. It features socket sizes from 8 to 24 mm. This is more than enough for both professionals and newbies! Additionally, we should mention a sturdy case that accommodates all these tools. It’s very handy and eases transportation.
We should only warn you about one possible issue. It seems that some users got some sockets in the same sizes instead of different ones. However, you can contact the company's amazing customer service and they’ll fix the issue in no time!
Durable Steel
All included pieces are made from chrome vanadium alloy steel. This material doesn’t only make them super durable but it also provides more strength. This means that you’ll deal with frozen and seized bolts and nuts in a breeze! Not to mention a corrosion-resistant coating that improves the durability of every included piece!
Cost and Value
Although you’ll have to add some cash to get it, Casoman is not overpriced at all! You’ll get a 38-piece set after all, which makes it worth every penny. Not to mention its quality and durability. You get to enjoy the efficiency of these sockets for a long time, that’s for sure!
38 pieces
Versatile
Great storage case
Quality steel
Durable
Easy to use
Lacks some sizes
Some might find it pricey
ABN
This is a 43-piece set. It includes regular deep and shallow impact sockets that are incredibly well made. They are super sturdy yet flexible enough not to flex during the use of the power tool. All in all, you get to use it with great ease and to be proud of your work!
CR-MO Steel
These sockets are made from CR-MO steel. The material doesn’t offer only strength, although it’s pretty impressive. The steel makes every piece of this set super durable. You get to use them for many years and finally enjoy your work! Also, you’ll get a convenient case to store and transport the tools.
Cost and Value
The main drawback with this one is definitely a sky-high price. Considering all previously reviewed sets, this one is definitely the most expensive one. That being said, we really think this is a good investment. You’ll get differently sized sockets to use them for many upcoming years!
43-piece set
Sturdy yet flexible
Easy to use
Made from durable steel
Super powerful
Efficient
Sky-high price
Criteria Used in Evaluation of the Best Impact Sockets
Ranking the 10 best picks was a rather challenging task. They all offer different designs to suit different needs. We had to examine and compare all their features in order to get the most accurate results. If you want to find out more about the criteria used in the evaluation, you can follow the provided list. It contains some of the most important factors that influenced the ranking process.
Efficiency
First and foremost, all impact sockets have to be efficient. What does it mean? It means that they should efficiently tighten or loosen any kind of fastener. Now, as we included only the best sets out there, all our picks prove to be very efficient. There are slight differences between them, though. Those who could cause you any kind of issue during the process are ranked lower on the list. The best-performing ones are at the top, of course!
Size
There are compact sets designed for beginners and big ones suitable for everybody. They offer different things so they come in different sizes, naturally. We couldn’t take the size of the set as a drawback. Still, we took into account the sizes of sockets included in the package. It often happens that some sets lack crucial sizes. We had to take this into account during the evaluation, regardless of the set sizes. Even the smallest ones shouldn’t lack crucial sizes!
Material
Quality material means better results. Those sets that are made from quality steel reduce the chances of breaking. Although all impact sockets are designed for power tools, there can still be some differences in their performance. Not all of them are equally resistant and durable. It all depends on the materials used for the construction.
Durability
Quality construction also means more durability. We all want for our tools to last, after all. First-class sockets have to be sturdy enough to endure high impact and don’t change their form. They also have to be rust and corrosion-resistant. In general, we considered all features that influence the durability of each set on the list. Then we ranked them according to their results!
Storage Case
It’s very important to have a quality case to transport and store impact sockets. It might not seem that way, but it is. Most buyers will have to move sockets around according to their job requirements. Now imagine that you have to keep them in some improvised bag. It’s messy and time-consuming. That’s why companies offer their own cases that are designed for easy use. They often come with a snap-in design that allows for perfect organization. You get to keep all sockets in separate sections and use them according to your needs. Not to mention that you keep your garage well organized. That’s why we had to rank the sets according to the quality of the provided cases.
Cost and Value
Lastly, the balance between cost and value was one of the crucial things in the evaluation. We wanted to make sure that you’ll get what you paid for. That’s why we ranked products according to the value they provide for the money. We also provided reviews with all products. This should help you out when choosing the perfect one to meet all your needs!
Other Factors to Consider
There are some things you might want to consider before you buy a set of impact sockets. Yes, we know that you’re impatient to get a new shiny case. But this will take only a few moments and it could influence your final decision! Here are some of the things to consider before the very purchase:
Which type do I need?
First and foremost, you should decide on the proper type. You get to choose between shallow, deep, and extra deep sockets. Always keep in mind the job you’ll be using this tool for. Try to determine the size and the type of bolts and nuts you’ll be working on. People mostly use either deep or shallow ones. The extra deep type is more used by professionals and for some special tasks.
How many of them do I need?
This is a tough one and once again it depends on your job requirements. Most newbies can go with compact sets that offer up to 20 pieces. Once you get a handle on it, you’ll see whether you need an upgrade. You’ll also be able to determine which one would you like to get to complement your set. Professionals and experienced handypersons should definitely opt for a bigger one.
How about the budget?
Unfortunately, your budget will influence your final decision. Those who are searching for cheaper sets will probably have to settle for a lower number of sockets. Or with having fewer sizes in the box. It’s just how it is. Big sets that offer 40-60 pieces do come at a higher price. However, there are still some amazing cheap products that will give you what you need. You’ll just need to look for the sizes that work for you and pick the one that has them. On the other side, if you have a few more bucks to spend on your new set, we recommend going for the bigger one. You’ll need those tools at some point, that’s for sure!
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What are sockets used for?
A: Sockets are tools designed to help you tighten or loosen fasteners such as bolts, nuts, and others. You only need to use a wrench or a ratchet to turn the socket in a proper way. This way, you’ll turn the fastener as well and loosen or tighten it, according to your needs. People mostly use this tool for automotive repairs. They are also a must for all mechanics that work with car engines. Other than that, they prove to be useful for bicycles. Some even use them for fixing their desktop computers!
Q: What is the difference between impact and regular sockets?
A: When it comes to impact sockets vs regular sockets, most people get confused. They look almost the same and work the same thing, yet they not the same thing. Now, the main difference is in the way they are meant to be used. Impact sockets are designed for power tools such as air or electric wrenches. The regular ones work only with manual wrenches. You can’t use regular types in combination with power tools because they are made of soft metals. If you use high impact on them, they’ll warp out of shape. You probably noticed how impact sockets come in black color. This is because of the carbonized surface that makes them super sturdy.
Q: Which type should I get?
A: It depends on which tool you plan to use and what do you prefer. These days, most people opt for impact wrench sockets. It’s just because they are more versatile. They are suitable for both hand and power tools, which makes them easier to use. Still, regular ones can look really nice and they are more durable. We personally recommend sticking with impact type just in case. You can complement your set with some regular types later on.
Q: Why are the impact sockets black?
A: They are black because they feature a special coating for more protection. The black phosphate coating is excellent protection from rust and corrosion. It keeps the underlying metal in perfect condition. This makes the entire tool more durable. The other purpose of the black coating is a strength. The metal of the tool flexes when you use high-impact on it. This type of coating prevents the material to crack! Here’s where we come to the difference between regular and impact sockets. The traditional chrome coating is prone to cracks when exposed to high-impact. This doesn’t happen with a flexible phosphate coating. The black color also improves visibility.
Q: Are they safe for use?
A: Absolutely! Still, you should always keep in mind that you’re working with power tools. You should always pay some special attention to safety on the worksite. Whether you work in your garage, workshop or at a construction site, you have to protect yourself from possible injuries. Almost every tool can cause some injuries if it’s not used in a proper way. We recommend reading some reviews or watching some youtube tutorials. This should help you out if you’re a first time user!
