Allen or hex fasteners are something that you simply can’t avoid when it comes to official workshop jobs or even DIY projects that you are getting done in your backyard. And these fasteners can only be operated with the help of an Allen wrench of a suitable size.
Therefore, keeping a complete set of Allen wrenches in your toolbox is definitely a crucial part of having an all-inclusive tool and accessory set. With a full set of Allen wrench, you can easily tackle a wide range of hex screws, bolts, or any other Allen fasteners. Since Allen wrench sets are similar to any other type of tool set, you should consider some basic parameters mentioned below to get the best option for the job.
- Material: The base material used for manufacturing a tool affects its overall strength and capability to perform a job. So if an Allen wrench set is made of a rather brittle material, its applications will be severely narrowed down to basic jobs and you will have to be really careful while using such Allen wrenches. Instead, if you are going with an option that is made up of carbon steel, alloy steel, or vanadium steel, you will get a much longer lifespan and high strength with these tools.
- Size: Just like any other tool, the compatibility of an Allen wrench set depends upon the sizes of Allen wrenches included in the unit. If the one Allen wrench that you need is not available in the set, the entire set won’t be of any use to you for that particular application. And unlike screwdrivers where you can get past the compatibility problem with one size lower, Allen wrenches have to be exactly the same as the hex nut you are going to fasten or loosen with it. Therefore, make sure you check the available sizes in the set before making a choice.
- Storage: If you already have a lot of tools and accessories spread across your tool collection, adding a bunch of Allen wrenches to the mess won’t be ideal as it will simply make it even more difficult to find the right tool for the job. Instead, you should consider going with a set that comes with a dedicated storage unit that can contain all the Allen wrenches in a safe and secure position. All of the options available on our list today offer some kind of storage solution for the Allen wrenches included in the set.
Now that you know what factors make up a good Allen wrench set, let us dive into the best Allen wrench sets available in the market right now. We have carefully shortlisted these options on the basis of the factors mentioned above and some more important qualities. Therefore, you will surely find a couple of great choices for your job on our list today. If you need help while picking up a set, simply refer to our “Buying Guide” for the best Allen wrench set presented right after our picks to get a better idea.
Best Allen Wrench Set List
| Allen Wrench Set | Material | SAE | Metric | Buy Now |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| TEKTON Allen Wrench Set | Heat treated Steel | 0.028 inch to 3/8 inch | 0.7 mm, 0.9 mm, 1.3 mm, 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 4.5 mm, 5 mm, 5.5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm, 10 mm | Check On Amazon |
| Amazon Basics Allen Wrench Set | Chrome Vanadium Steel | --- | --- | Check On Amazon |
| HORUSDY Allen Wrench Set | --- | 0.028 inch to ⅜ inch | 0.7 mm to 10 mm | Check On Amazon |
| YIYITOOLS Allen Wrench Set | Alloy Steel | 1/20 inch to 3/8 inch | 1.27 mm to 10 mm | Check On Amazon |
| MulWark Allen Wrench Set | Chrome Vanadium Steel | 5/65 inch, 3/32 inch, 7/64 inch, ⅛ inch, 9/64 inch, 5/32 inch, 3/16 inch, 7/32 inch, ¼ inch | 1.5 mm, M2 2 mm, 2.5 mm, M3 3 mm, M4 4 mm, M5 5 mm, M6 6 mm, M8 8 mm | Check On Amazon |
| EFFICERE Allen Wrench Set | Chrome Vanadium Steel | 0.028 inch to 3/8 inch | 0.7 mm to 10 mm | Check On Amazon |
| CRAFTSMAN Allen Wrench Set | Alloy Steel | 1/16 inch, 5/64 inch, 3/32 inch, 1/8 inch, 5/32 inch, 3/16 inch, 7/32 inch, 1/4 inch, 5/16 inch and 3/8 inch | 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 7 mm, 8 mm and 10 mm | Check On Amazon |
| Eklind Tool Allen wrench Set | --- | --- | --- | Check On Amazon |
| AMERICAN MUTT TOOLS Allen Wrench Set | Alloy Steel | 5/64 inch, 3/32 inch, 7/64 inch, ⅛ inch, 9/64 inch, 5/32 inch, 3/16 inch, 7/32 inch, 1/4 inch | 1.5 mm, 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4 mm, 5 mm, 6 mm, 8 mm | Check On Amazon |
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Best Allen Wrench Set Reviews
1. TEKTON Allen Wrench Set
The best part about buying a tool kit such as an Alen wrench set is that you can simply go with one of the most trusted options on the market and rely on its performance and reliability. The following option from TEKTON is one such choice that you wouldn’t wanna miss.
In the 1st position, we are listing the TEKTON Hex Key Wrench Set. This is the most popular option available in the market right now and currently being used by thousands of individuals. This is a 15 piece set of Allen wrench including a wide number of options ranging from 0.028 to ⅜ inch in size.
The tools feature a black oxide coating on the top to make them safe from moisture contact and prevent problems like corrosion. The TEKTON Hex Key Wrench Set features both long/short arm design so that you can get an extended reach and create an additional leverage on the job. The storage case of the TEKTON Hex Key Wrench Set is a hinged storage unit that is easier to carry and use.
Best Features
- The tools are made up of heat treated steel
- Set contains 0.028 to ⅜ inch SAE sizes
- Set contains 0.7 to 10 mm Metric sizes
- Chamfered edges for additional support
Pros
- Most popular options on this list
- Best option for outdoor usage
- Black oxide finish on the surface
Cons
- Only 15 pieces are included in the set
2. Amazon Basics Allen Wrench Set
AmazonBasics is one of the most popular brands in the market that ensures affordable alternatives to a wide range of products including tools and tool sets. So, AmazonBasics also has an alternative option for an Allen wrench set.
Our 2nd choice for the best Allen wrench set is coming from AmazonBasics. And as you may have guessed already, it is also the cheapest option available on this list. This is a set of 26 pieces of Allen wrenches which is pretty good considering some premium options are limited to 15 to 20 units per set.
Even in terms of build quality, the AmazonBasics Hex Key Allen Wrench Set competes with its premium competitors as it is made up of chrome-vanadium steel. This material ensures a rugged strength on the tool. And the black oxide finish protects it against all types of environmental damage. Plus, the surface of these Allen wrenches is sand blasted to create a smooth surface, free from damaging sharp edges.
Best Features
- The tools are made up chrome-vanadium steel
- Set contains 0.05 to ⅜ inch SAE sizes
- Black oxide coating on the top
- Sandblasted surface
Pros
- Most affordable option in the market for an Allen wrench set
- Smooth and harmless surface
- Many sizes are available
Cons
- Storage unit is weaker than other options
3. HORUSDY Allen Wrench Set
HORUSDY is also bringing a decent set for an Allen wrench that can be used for a wide range of applications since it has a lot of sizes present in the set. Still, it is more of a budget choice compared to lots of other choices.
The HORUSDY Hex Key Set is also a great choice included on our list for a versatile set of applications. This is a 30-piece set made up of heat treated alloy steel. So, the build quality of the tools is not to be doubted here. Within the 30 included pieces, 15 are long reach hex keys whereas other 5 are high leverage short keys.
The HORUSDY Hex Key Set kets also come with a torque handle, allowing you to exert additional force for frozen or jammed nuts. On each of these 30 pieces, you will find highly visible markings representing the size of the key. Thus, it is even easier to find the right tool for the job while you are working. Just like most other Allen wrench sets in the market, the HORUSDY Hex Key Set also comes in a flat storage unit that takes up little space when you are carrying it with you.
Best Features
- The tools are made up of –
- Set contains 0.028 to ⅜ inch SAE sizes
- Set contains 0.7 to 10 mm Metric sizes
- Comes in a flat case
Pros
- Made up of highly durable material
- Highly visible markings on the tools
- Includes both long reach and short reach keys
Cons
- The number of tools might be excessive for basic jobs
4. YIYITOOLS Allen Wrench Set
YIYITOOLS is also one of the famous picks when it comes to tools and accessories needed for professional jobs. Apart from the Allen wrench set mentioned here, this brand also makes a wide range of other tool sets like socket sets, screwdriver sets, drill sets, and many others.
The YIYITOOLS Allen Wrench Set is also a pretty good option for the price since there are 30 pieces included in this set. This set consists of 1/20 inch to ⅜ inch SAE sizes as well as 1.27 to 10 mm Metric sizes for Allen wrenches. Thus, this set is compatible with a wide range of applications like mobiles, bicycles, machinery, etc.
The material used for YIYITOOLS Allen Wrench Set is high quality alloy steel that ensures long lasting reliability along with high hardness and strength of the tool. With that, you can use the YIYITOOLS Allen Wrench Set for high torque applications without worrying about the build quality of the tools. And on top of that, all of the keys included in the YIYITOOLS Allen Wrench Set feature the classic L-shaped design, to which a lot of users are already familiar.
Best Features
- The tools are made up of alloy steel
- Set contains 1/20 to ⅜ inch SAE sizes
- Set contains 1.27 to 10 mm Metric sizes
- Features classic L-shaped design
Pros
- Includes a wide range of sizes
- Includes both SAE and Metric sizes
- Made up of good material
Cons
- Storage case could have been better
5. MulWark Allen Wrench Set
If storage cases are not working out for your working style, then you should take a look at the following Allen wrench set made by MulWark. This is also a preferred choice for most professional users and is currently being used by thousands of workers.
The MulWark Folding Allen Wrench Set is one of the unique options that we have chosen for our list today. This set includes only 17 pieces, offering 5/65 to ¼ inch SAE sizes and 1.5 to 8 mm Metric sizes for a wrench set. But, they come with a folding style case that can store the tools as well as work as a torque handle while you are using the keys. It also offers a special flexible angle to work with the key, offering better access to awkward corners.
The keys on the other hand are made up of high-grade alloy steel to ensure maximum performance while you are operating the tool set. It creates an ideal balance between the strength and the operating angle of the key to allow working in confined spaces. The storage unit itself is made up of a comfortable rubber material to offer a firm and secure grip on the tool.
Best Features
- The tools are made up of chrome vanadium steel
- Set contains 5/65 to ¼ inch SAE sizes
- Set contains 1.5 to 8 mm Metric sizes
- Multifunctional storage unit
Pros
- Suitable for high-torque applications
- Can be used in confined spaces
- Easy to store and carry
Cons
- Limited number of sizes are provided
6. EFFICERE Allen Wrench Set
Coming back to the affordable range of Allen wrench sets, we have a decent option coming from EFFICERE. This is also a great option for the price considering its build quality and number of keys.
The EFFICERE Allen Wrench Set is also one of the versatile options available on the market, designed for a wide range of usage. It includes both SAE and Metric sizes that lets you use the set for almost all products that you will come across. As for its quality, there is nothing to worry about with the EFFICERE Allen Wrench Set as these tools are made up of heat treated chrome vanadium steel.
With that, these keys ensure added strength and reluctance to wear out even after rigorous usage. The ends of the EFFICERE Allen Wrench Set are precisely machined and have chamfered edges to ensure a perfect fit with the corresponding fastener. It can also prevent damaging the top of the fastener as there are no sharp edges to cause an impact. With this set, you will find a compact and foldable storage case, offering an organized selection of Allen wrench to work with.
Best Features
- The tools are made up of chrome vanadium steel
- Set contains 0.028 to ⅜ inch SAE sizes
- Set contains 0.7 to 10 mm Metric sizes
- Comes in a compact and foldable case
Pros
- Offers many sizes to work with
- Comes with the classic L-shaped design
- Precise chamfered tip on each tool
Cons
- A few included sizes might not be needed for most applications
7. CRAFTSMAN Allen Wrench Set
CRAFTSMAN is a well-known brand in the market for tools and accessories. From CRAFTSMAN, you can not only get a wide range of mechanical tools, but also a feature-rich selection of power tools, accessories, and even measurement tools.
Up next, we are featuring yet another reliable choice on our list of the best Allen wrench set. This set is designed by CRAFTSMAN and it is a very good option as far as general purpose applications are concerned. This set comes with 20 units in a set, offering both SAE and Metric sizes to work with. Plus, the highly durable strong steel construction of the tool certainly improves its applicability and strength.
On top of that, there is black oxide coating provided on each key included in the CRAFTSMAN Hex Key Set. So, you can use this set outside without worrying about weather effects on the set. You can also keep the set together without needing any extra storage unit as the Hex Key Set ships with a convenient storage rack. These keys also have a ball-end to provide angled access to the job, ensuring proper torque along with accessibility.
Best Features
- The tools are made up of alloy steel
- Set contains 1/16 to ⅜ inch SAE sizes
- Set contains 1.5 to 10 mm Metric sizes
- A total of 20 pieces are included in the set
Pros
- Tools have a ball-end for angled access
- Made up of strong steel material
- Black oxide coating is provided on each tool
Cons
- More pieces might be needed for special jobs
8. Eklind Tool Allen wrench Set
Eklind is also a brand that specifically deals with smaller tools and accessories. So, tool sets like hex keys, PSD keys, Power-T keys, etc are pretty much the speciality of this brand.
The Eklind 13222 L-Key Allen wrench Combo is one more great option that we found for our list today. This is a set of 22 pieces, including 2 different sets for SAE and Metric sizes. The SAE set of the Eklind 13222 L-Key Allen wrench Combo offers 1/16 to ⅜ inches size options whereas the Metric set has 1.5 to 10 mm options.
All of the keys present in this set are made up of alloy steel material to ensure applicability in most cases and offer a reliable experience while you are working with the tools. Both of the sets included in this combo come with their own specific storage unit so that you can keep the Metric and SAE sizes separate and organized.
Best Features
- Set contains 1/16 to ⅜ inch SAE sizes
- Set contains 1.5 to 10 mm Metric sizes
- Made up of alloy material
- Comes in 2 different sets for organizing
Pros
- Easy to use and organize
- Many sizes are available
- Includes a burr-free short arm
Cons
- Build quality should have been better for this price
9. AMERICAN MUTT TOOLS Allen Wrench Set
In the end, we are bringing yet another great choice for those who usually need an Allen wrench set for outdoor jobs. The following option is made by AMERICAN MUTT TOOLS, a well-known brand for budget-focused inspection and hand tools.
The last set on our list of the best Allen wrench sets is coming from AMERICAN MUTT TOOLS. The AMERICAN MUTT TOOLS Allen Wrench Set is also one of the best options for portability since it has a folding design, making the storage case store all the keys without needing to remove them. These keys are also made up of heat treated industrial grade alloy steel to offer the best performance.
As for the sizes, the AMERICAN MUTT TOOLS Allen Wrench Set includes a total of 17 units, which consists of 5/64 to ¼ inch SAE hex keys and 1.5 to 8 mm Metric hex keys. Still, the folding storage of the AMERICAN MUTT TOOLS Allen Wrench Set is quite small and compact, allowing it to be more portable than other similar options. Since these tools are made up of a high strength material, AMERICAN MUTT TOOLS is offering a lifetime warranty period on the AMERICAN MUTT TOOLS Allen Wrench Set.
Best Features
- The tools are made up of alloy steel
- Set contains 5/64 to ¼ inch SAE sizes
- Set contains 1.5 to 8 mm Metric sizes
- Comes with a lifetime warranty period
Pros
- Most affordable set on this list
- Made up of industrial grade alloy steel
- Compact and lightweight option
Cons
- Some smaller sizes are missing from the set
Buying Guide For The Best Allen Wrench Set
Whether you are a beginner in the field of craftsmanship or an experienced professional, you will definitely find yourself needing a decent set of Allen wrench sooner or later. Since a lot of products these days are secured with the help of hex nuts and fasteners, it is crucial to have an Allen wrench set around if you ever need to disassemble these products for repairs or part-replacements. And for that reason, almost all DIY home tool kits include a specific set of Allen wrenches. In case you have missed out on having one in your tool set, don’t worry.
We have brought a great selection of Allen wrench sets present in the market right now that you can get right away and complete your arsenal of tools and accessories. However, you should consider the fact that not all Allen wrench sets are the same and each option is suitable for a certain set of applications. And to help you find the best option for your needs, we are bringing this helpful buying guide for the best Allen wrench set.
1. Material
The base material used for the construction of a tool becomes one of its most important factors since the overall strength and applicability of the tool are highly dependent upon it. If the tool does not incorporate enough strength for the job, it will simply break once you apply a little excessive pressure. Therefore, the tool or tool set you are buying must have strong construction and it should be made up of materials like carbon steel, chrome vanadium steel, alloy steel, etc.
The basic rule in every case is that the tool is supposed to be harder and tougher than the job. If this rule is satisfied, you can easily use the tool for all types of applications without worrying. Another important parameter that comes into play here is the coating provided on top of the base material to avoid problems like corrosion and rusting. A lot of brands go with nickel or black oxide to prevent environmental effects on the tools, which works out fine in most cases.
2. Chamfered vs Non-chamfered Allen Wrenches
If you take a close look at an Allen wrench, you will notice that it is a pretty simple tool in terms of design and construction. It is nothing but a metallic bar of the hexagonal cross-section with a bend at the front, and that’s it. But, there are small improvements that are introduced by a handful of brands that make the tool more durable and increase its expected lifespan by a significant margin. For example, some brands increase the quality of the Allen wrench by introducing a chamfer at the end of the tool.
While it may not look like much of a difference in terms of design, it certainly increases the ergonomics of the tool. If you are using a chamfered Allen wrench, you can locate the wrench even more quickly and it will be safe from accidental damage caused to the edges of the tool. Some Allen wrenches have a ball-end which offers even more benefits. Such designs allow you to apply more pressure on the tool at an angle to allow operation on rusted or frozen hex nuts.
3. Length of the Tool
As we all know the basics, the amount of force needed for a job decreases along with an increase in the distance from which you are applying it. This basic rule fits perfectly with Allen wrenches as you are not going to apply the force directly on the end of the Allen wrench. Instead, you will be rotating the handle of the Allen wrench which will generate a moment of force at that particular point.
As you might have guessed already, the moment of the force generated at the connecting point of the tool increases with the increase in the length of the handle. To make that happen, Allen wrenches are usually made with 1 to 4 inches long handles. But, if you find an overly long Allen wrench, you should consider other options since these options are not the best choices for operating in compact spaces. Also, the handle of the Allen wrench needs to be ergonomically accurate to offer a comfortable grip to the user.
4. SAE and Metric Systems
All tools and accessories designed in the USA are mostly calibrated with SAE or imperial measurement systems. On the other hand, imported goods from places like Europe or Asia are designed with a metric system. While general conversion of these measurement systems allows you to easily switch between the systems while you are working on certain jobs, it is not that simple when it comes to tools and accessories. Even a small difference in the fastener size caused by SAE and Metric units can make the tool useless for the job.
And as you may already know, forcefully using the tool for the job causes nothing but damage to the workpiece or the tool itself. Therefore, you should carefully consider what type of measurement system you deal with on a regular basis and pick up an Allen wrench that is designed with the same. And if you want a versatile choice, go with the set that includes both SAE as well as metric wrenches to make all types of applications possible. And with the sets that cover both SAE and Metric sizes, you will find more wrenches per set compared to those that are suited for only one type of measurement system.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ans: Hex keys and Allen wrenches are not just similar, but they are the exact same thing with 2 different names. Hex keys and hexagonal nut screws were first invented by the Allen manufacturing company which names the units “Allen wrench”. In the USA, these units are called Allen wrenches whereas, in Britain, they are called Allen keys or hex keys. So, whether you are looking at a set that contains hex keys, Allen keys, hex wrenches, or Allen wrenches, it is simply the same set of tools with different nomenclature.
Ans: Allen wrenches are pretty straightforward tools and using these tools is not that different from using a screwdriver or a regular wrench. First of all, you need to insert the hexagonal end of the tool into the hexagonal slot available on top of a hex nut or screw. Then, you simply turn the tool clockwise or anticlockwise to tighten or loosen the nut respectively. The force required to do the job depends upon the type of Allen wrench you are using. With a T-handle Allen wrench, you can apply a greater force whereas a ball-ended wrench lets you use the tool at a difficult angle.
Ans: If you are not sure whether you actually need an Allen wrench set or not, you might be wondering about the applications of this tool set. In any case, you should still get a versatile set of Allen wrench since it is better to have the set and not need it, rather than needing it and not having it. Here are some common applications that usually require an Allen wrench set.
Furniture jobs, especially tables and stools
Opening up power tools
Accessing the internal arts of monitors, TVs, or other similar accessories
Working on automobile accessories
Plumbing jobs
Conclusion
Even though Allen hex drivers were introduced back in 1909, it is such a popular choice that it is still one of the most used fastening systems in the world and you might have to deal with it at some point in your projects. Right now, Allen fasteners are utilized on a wide range of products due to their benefit of a flat top and secured grip. And to access these fasteners, you will also need a similarly powerful set of Allen wrenches. We hope that you have found one on our list of the best Allen wrenches available around you. We have specified all of our picks in great detail so that making a choice will not be a lot of trouble for you. We have also discussed some of the major parameters of an Allen wrench set on our buying guide so make sure you check that out. If you are still not sure which option is right for you, take a look at our top recommendations given below.
- If you want a basic set of Aleen wrench for domestic applications and DIY projects, you should go with an affordable choice like the AmazonBasics Hex Key Allen Wrench Set. These Allen wrench sets offer a ball-end and you will find about 26 different sizes of wrenches in this set. Despite being a cheaper alternative, the Amazon Basics Allen Wrench Set still features a chrome vanadium steel construction to ensure a long lifespan. The surface of these tools is sand-blasted to make it smooth and level.
- On the other hand, there are a handful of choices like the CRAFTSMAN Allen Wrench Set that are more suited for regular applications and professional jobs. This is a rather premium option for an Allen wrench set and it includes 20 sizes for Metric as well as SAE standards. All of these tools have a black oxide coating to prevent environmental damage. Also, these tools are ball-ended to provide angled access to difficult jobs. To make the keys strong and durable, CRAFTSMAN has decided to use alloy steel for its construction.
- The storage can be a real problem for small tools like Allen wrenches. So if you are planning to use the tools for outdoor jobs, the MulWark Allen Wrench Set is probably the best choice for you. As the name suggests, this set includes a folding design for the tools so that you will never lose an Allen wrench from the set. And the storage unit itself acts as a comfortable handle for the tool to make the job even easier. MulWark is also offering a 100% satisfaction guarantee with the MulWark Folding Allen Wrench Set which includes replacements of the parts.
