Best Tool Box for 2022
Even if you don't consider yourself handy, you probably have a hammer, screwdriver, and tape measure at home for activities like hanging artwork and fixing loose knobs. If you prefer tackling more challenging DIY projects, you're likely to have a significantly larger tool collection, both hand and power.
These carry cases may not be something you consider every day, but if you work with tools on a regular basis, you'll need something with a few more features than your ordinary container. An electrician or a carpenter, for example, would want a much more customised toolbox to keep all their unique equipment readily available and organised.
But how can you know which toolset is best for you? This is a multifaceted issue. We've done the legwork for you by compiling a list of the top toolboxes on the market in 2021, so you don't have to. Based on our extensive study, one of these toolboxes is assured to meet all of your tool-carrying needs.
Want to learn more? Continue reading to see what we have to say.
Things to consider before buying a toolbox
As simple as it may sound, purchasing a toolbox isn't as simple as it may appear because there are so many different types of toolboxes on the market. Preparing a list of things you want to look for before you go shopping will save you time and help you make better decisions.
Size of toolbox
If you're going to buy a toolbox, you need to think about how many tools you already own, as well as how much space you'll need for future purchases. You need a large enough toolbox to accommodate all of your current tools and has capacity for future acquisitions. Having a toolbox that is either tiny or too huge will need the purchase of a new one.
Compartments
Individual compartment dimensions and whether or not the compartments are removable or changeable are also important considerations. In order to keep everything organised, you'll need both large and small storage areas. To get to the bottom of your toolbox without them, you'll have to sift through all of your other tools.
Indoor or outdoor use
Because aluminium toolboxes are rust-resistant, they are ideal for outdoor use. Despite their small size, they are nevertheless extremely durable and resistant to wear and tear. There is a price to pay for stainless steel, though, which is rust-resistant. Plastic is the least expensive material, and it has the added benefit of not rusting. However, it is not as long-lasting. It's common for wooden toolboxes to be preferred for interior use because they're visually pleasing, robust, and lighter than their metal equivalents.
Keep all this in mind before you make your purchase.
Comfortable handle or wheels
Most hardware stores carry suitcase-style toolboxes with wheels and handles. Flat ground can be covered easily with these. If you work on a construction site and need to carry your toolbox, you may want to consider a toolbox with a comfortable handle. Rubber grip and finger grooves should be found on the handle.
Appearance
If your toolbox is going to be on show in your workshop, you may want to buy a visually appealing one. As a bonus, having a beautiful work environment improves your mental health and encourages you to maintain a clean and tidy workspace.
The cost of a toolbox
A toolbox can range from $50 to more than $1000. Before spending money on a high-end model, consider how frequently you intend to use it. If the toolbox is in working order, a second-hand one may be a better option. To be clear, if you're only going to keep sewing needles in your toolbox, you don't need an expensive one.
Best Toolbox Models Reviewed
Decked Truck Tool Box – Best Overall Tool Box
The Decked Truck Tool Box is made of high-impact, injection moulded polymer ASA and HDPE resins, as well as anti-corrosion steel hardware and aluminium for long-lasting durability. It also has a seamless, waterproof structure and a strong locking system to protect your most valuable tools and gear from the elements and theft.
The Tool Box, which features an integrated ladder that nests beneath the lid, enabling users to access over half of their storage from either side of their work truck, removing the need to crawl in and out of the truck bed to get to items near the cab. The ladder is small enough to fit in the Tool Box and has a telescopic construction that allows it to be folded in and out of the vehicle while wearing gloves.
The ladder accessory is optional at the time of purchase and will later be available for buy separately on the website. It includes a Decked D-Box, a smaller modular tool and gear organisation system that hangs from the unit's inbuilt hanging mechanism. The Tool Box will initially only be compatible with Decked Drawer Systems in 8-foot truck beds for users integrating the Tool Box with a Decked Drawer System.
The Tool Box with the ladder accessory costs $875, while the Tool Box without the ladder costs $699.
Keter Masterloader Portable Tool Box - Best all-purpose tool box
The Keter Masterloader Portable Tool Box is as near to having a tool workshop right where you need it as you'll get. This super-durable resin tool box will not dent, peel, rust, or break under adverse climates. It's also easy to carry around with you while working, thanks to two 7-inch rubber wheels, an extensible handle, and a central lock.
Larger tools, such as power drills, hammers, flashlights, and handsaws, can be stored in the lower half of the box. Multiple compartments for smaller tools, including six removable bins for nails, screws, tape measures, and other tiny objects, are located on the upper half of the box. But the best part is that the upper piece of the box is divided, allowing you to pull the two halves apart for easy access to every part of the box without having to lift off the top shelves.
The tool box is 14.88 x 24.25 x 16.34 inches and can hold 66 pounds. The box is 13 pounds in weight.
DEWALT Tough System DWST08203 - Best Heavy-Duty Tool Box
Don't require all that extra room and only need something to house your essential tools? You'll be covered with the DEWALT Tough System DS 300. This tool box is similar to the classic form of tool boxes that provide you with a single compartment to work with, but it goes one step further by providing additional protection. This is the tool box for you if you want something to keep your tools safe no matter what happens outside.
The outside is comprised of a 4-millimetre thick foam wall that is extremely robust. To keep moisture out, a water seal is sandwiched between the lid and the box. The box can also be used with DEWALT's Tough System metal carrier. Simply hook it onto the carrier and use the central locking mechanism to secure it. The Tough System allows you to customise your storage space by adding modular components to meet your specific requirements.
Torin Big Red 16-Inch Tool Box TB102 - Best for the Car
Keep a small but sturdy tool box in your car loaded with the essentials, and you'll always be prepared to handle unexpected repairs when you're out and about. The Torin Big Red 16-Inch Tool Box is ideal for the job; at 16.7 x 6.9 x 4.9 inches, it's just big enough to hold your hammer, screwdriver set, pliers, and other frequently-needed-in-an-emergency tools, but small enough to easily stash in the trunk and light enough to lift without effort (at only 2.7 pounds).
The tool box is composed of heavy-gauge steel with a retro-looking brilliant red corrosion-resistant powder finish. The hefty metal latch keeps the box securely locked, so you don't have to worry about your tools scattering when you make a rapid turn or stop, and the easy-to-grasp handle makes retrieving the box a breeze. Because there are no interior sections, you may make the most of the available space to store larger tools.
Homak industrial cantilever steel tool box BW00210220 - Best cantilevered tool box
This is an impressive feat of engineering. Homak's cantilevered tool box combines vintage styling (that brown wrinkle finish on the outside is to die for) with plenty of usefulness. There are four integrated shelves inside the lid that stretch out as you open it. These are ideal for storing tiny objects. The main component of the box, down below, may, of course, accept heavier equipment like hammers or drills (or maybe even hammer drills). The lid has a triple-clasp design on top and is pad-lockable for added security. Aside from that, this tool box is made of industrial-grade materials, and its hefty 21-pound weight makes it essentially built to last generations. Its measurements are approximately 10 inches wide by 22 inches long by 13 inches tall.
Users adore this tool box because of its classic style and robust construction, giving it a 4.6-star rating.
Husky 3-drawer small metal portable tool box - Best tool box with drawers
Looking for a compact tool box with drawers that's portable? There's no need to look any further because this Husky specimen has your name written on it. This tool box, which measures 20.2- by 8.8- by 11.8-inches, has three drawers that are all supported by ball-bearing slides that are far smoother and easier to work with than weaker cabinet designs. An upper storage cubby with a stylish cantilevered tray sits above that triad of drawers. This unit should last a long time because of the welded steel construction and power-coated finish.
DEWALT Tool Box & Mobile Work Center DWST20800 - Best Workshop Tool Box
True road warriors require more than just a basic toolbox to get the job done. Having a portable workshop by your side will keep you prepared and efficient when working, whether you are a professional or simply need to transport a lot of gear. The DEWALT DWST20800 is like carrying around four different tool kits at all times. With the push of a single lock, the telescopic design expands from a single rectangle to a four-tier workspace.
Once everything is unfolded, each storage place is easily accessible. The many stages will allow you to organise various tools and parts while working while keeping everything within easy reach. The tool box is convenient to move and store when closed. The most common work terrains are appropriate for heavy-duty wheels.
Milwaukee Packout modular tool box storage system - Best rolling tool box
The Milwaukee Packout 22-inch, modular tool box storage system is a great option if you need to transport a lot of tools (not literally).
In addition to the three latching bins that can hold all kinds of tools and sundries, it includes an IP65-rated weather barrier to keep water and dust out, as well as 9-inch all-terrain wheels and an extended handle so you can roll your items to where it's needed.
Don't worry about stocking up this Milwaukee modular storage system, which offers 6,885 cubic inches of storage space and a 250-pound weight capacity. This rolling tool chest storage system is made of impact-resistant plastics and incorporates metal reinforcements in the corners and locking points for years of hard use.
The total weight of this arrangement is 46 pounds.
Craftsman 2000 Series 5-Drawer 26-Inch Rolling Tool Chest - Best Mechanic Tool Box
Although larger mechanic's tool boxes are excellent long-term storage solutions, they are typically designed for larger or less congested workspaces and are cumbersome. The Craftsman 2000 Series 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest meets the bill if you're searching for a more manageable box with plenty of storage. The two bottom drawers are deep enough to house power tools like drills or impact drivers, while the three above drawers contain smaller equipment like wrenches, sockets, and screwdrivers.
Thanks to the four casters, you can effortlessly move the tool chest where you need it. It's easy to manage, thanks to a strong side handle. The tool chest's overall dimensions are 34 inches tall, 26.5 inches wide, and 18 inches deep. It's an excellent option for any DIYer with a medium-sized tool collection that needs to be organised.
Buyers Products Diamond Tread Aluminum Underbody Truck Box – Best Truck Tool Box
The Buyers Products 1705115 Diamond Tread Aluminum Underbody Truck Box is our pick for the finest overall choice for a sturdy, durable, and reasonably priced truck tool box.
This 60-inch truck toolbox has a conventional design and is made of. The100-inch thick diamond tread aluminium can endure adverse weather conditions. It's corrosion- and dent-resistant, and it'll withstand a lot of abuse. This tool box has a locking, die-cast compression latch system that protects your tools and gear not only from the elements, but also from theft.
This tool box and its contents are built to last, with aircraft-grade cables and a robust and replaceable gasket sealing mechanism. It's designed to be mounted on a level truck bed, but larger trucks can also place it under the bed. The recessed drop-door is strengthened and designed to be rattle-free.
Although there have been a few customer complaints concerning quality control difficulties with this model, be assured that customer care replies have been prompt and adequate to please the majority of buyers.
BLACK+DECKER 12V Max Drill 60-Piece Home Tool Kit – Best Home Tool Kit
It isn't easy to imagine a basic DIY project or household repair that the BLACK+DECKER 12V Max Drill 60-Piece Home Tool Kit couldn't handle. This handy tool kit includes not only the most common hand tools, such as a hammer, screwdrivers, tape measure, pliers, wrench, ratcheting screwdriver with nut drivers, utility knife, and level but also a BLACK+DECKER 12V Max Cordless Drill, as well as ten assorted drill bits and 32 assorted screw-driving bits.
Assembling furniture, tightening screws, hanging photos, repairing that sagging door or garden gate, and any other usual jobs on the honey-do list will be a breeze. While these tools aren't professional-grade, they're durable enough that even the most inexperienced DIYer can count on consistent results time after time.
A charger and tool bag is also included in the package.
Stanley 12.5 inches Essential Tool Box - The Best Budget Tool Box
Everything you need in a basic tool kit is included in the Stanley 12.5 inch. Essential Tool Box, and nothing you don't. This low-cost option is ideal for those on a tight budget or those who don't require the extra features of more expensive ones.
There's no reason to spend $40 on a tool box if all you need is a place to keep a few basic hand tools and some random hardware. This little guy has everything you need for $7.
It's tough, features two convenient built-in storage compartments, an inside tray insert, and is crafted to a level of quality you wouldn't anticipate at this price. That said, you won't be packing this thing up with monkey wrenches and dumping it in the back of your truck every day, but for light general use, it's a no-brainer.
With a length of 12.5 inches, this tool box can be stored almost anyplace, making it ideal for use as a roadside emergency kit in your car or as a first aid kit in your boat or camper.
If you're short on cash, do yourself a favour and: Spend $7 on this box and use the $20 you saved to get a good screwdriver set or a pair of vice grips.
Tips
- To add further tool organisation to your setup, purchase a tool box with internal dividers or sections.
- If you're looking for a toolbox that will work with tonneau coverings, tool chests are a wonderful option. Many do although not all chest designs are short enough to fit under the bed rail.
- Almost all tool boxes will function with camper shells unless they obstruct the positioning of the shell on the bed rails. Check the overhang of the box to see if it poses an issue.
- Certain tool boxes will necessitate drilling into the truck bed's side for installation. Professional installation may be preferred if you aren't comfortable customising the truck yourself.
- A color-matched powder coating will add some style to your truck. If you want something that goes with a variety of colours and styles, you can choose with a black powder coat or a plane diamond-plate steel surface.
FAQs
What budget should I set out for a tool box?
There are many tool boxes to pick from, and they come at a variety of costs. You can spend a lot of money or just a few dollars on one of these things, so don't assume a new tool box is out of your budget range.
Which style tool box is the best?
Before you go out and buy a tool box, think about what you'll need. Choose the shape that is most appropriate for you. Some tool boxes have lids on the top, others have drawers, and yet others have storage trays that splay out when opened. Each of these designs has its own set of applications.
Are all tool box drawers created equal?
No, they aren't. Look for one with ball-bearing drawer slides if you want a drawer toolbox. These glide far more smoothly and with less effort than those with non-ball-bearing slides.
What other tool carrying options are there besides a bulky tool box?
For some jobs, a tool bag is preferable to a tool box. Consider a bag instead of a box if you just need to carry a few items at a time or if you frequently work in cramped spaces.
Are toolboxes made of plastic durable?
Although many tool boxes these days are made of plastic, this should not deter you from getting one. Modern polymers are stronger and lighter than traditional steel, and they do not conduct electricity. Of course, there are plenty of metal tool boxes to pick from if you're looking for an old-school style or feel.
Everyone has their own toolbox.
Tool boxes appear to be basic at first glance, but closer inspection reveals a lot more than meets the eye. There are numerous designs to choose from and a wide range of price points and features to consider. All of the alternatives on this list have received positive feedback from customers and are worthy of your consideration.
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