A ratchet is a must-have tool in your tool arsenal to do repairs in and around the home or vehicles. It comes with a rotating gear inside the head and two levers used to loosen or tighten bolts and nuts. This is a versatile hand tool used to do a wide range of chores. There are several options available that differ in quality and practicality, in which finding the best ratchet is a bit overwhelming. Not a single-size ratchet fits for all purposes, you have to do some basic research to choose the apt one, as per your task requirement. We suggest you consider the following key factors before investing in a ratchet tool or set.
Ratchet Size –
The ratchet size or drive size refers to the supported bit size that is handy for different kinds of applications. In general, 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, & 1/2-inch are the three main ratchet sizes available. Choose the one that supports the corresponding bit and bolt size as per your needs.
Tooth Count –
It is the measure of the total number of teeth on the drive gear inside the head of the ratchet. Generally, a ratchet with a high tooth count needs less handle movement, while a low tooth count needs more handle movement to turn the fastener. So, select a ratchet with a high tooth count to work better in tight scenarios and awkward spaces.
Material –
The ratchets are built with heavy-duty materials, like chrome, chrome-vanadium steel, and chrome-molybdenum steel, yet the quality varies a lot. Also, you have to consider your working condition before deciding on its type of material. If working in colder climates, pick a ratchet with polyshell coating, while in hot climates, go with a heat-resistant chrome-molybdenum steel ratchet. We came up with a list of some best-selling Ratchets along with a detailed “Buying Guide” to help you in selecting the right type of ratchet, which balances your requirement and budget.
Best Ratchets Tabulation
7 Best Ratchets Reviews
1. Milwaukee Ratchet
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Milwaukee is a highly reputable brand of power tools since it makes highly durable and reliable products include a ratchet wrench. The Milwaukee 2457-20 M12 cordless ratchet is present in the 1st position in this article as it is the most durable and reliable option present in this article. This is possible due to its excellent build quality that is much better than most other options out there. You even get a 5-year long warranty with it that is not found in other options out there. As for its performance, it uses a 12-volt battery system to get a decent motor speed of up to 250 RPM. Although, the torque rating of 35 feet pounds could have been slightly better. A great thing about this ratchet is that it comes with a variable speed trigger for ease of use. Best Features:
Electric motor power rating of 12 volts ⅜ inch ratchet wrench size 5-year long warranty 250 RPM motor speed rating 35 feet pounds torque rating
Pros:
Most durable and reliable ratchet Excellent build quality for peace of mind Variable speed trigger for precision
Cons:
Average motor torque rating of 35 feet pounds Does not include charger and battery in the box
2. Acdelco Tool Ratchet
Most of the power tool offerings from ACDelco Tools have a high user rating because of the various features and options they offer the user. ACDelco Tools’ ARW1209 ratchet is present in the 2nd position in this article as it offers a lot of things to the user for the given price tag. For its justified price tag, you get a ⅜ inch ratchet size that is quite common and popular. This ratchet offers up to 45 feet pounds of torque that is quite high for a powered tool. It uses a 12-volt battery system for powering the motor and going up to 170 RPM. A great thing about this ratchet is that it has a length of just 10 inches while weighing just 2 pounds that makes it a great option for portable usage. As for the warranty, you get a 1-year long warranty with it. Best Features:
Electric motor power rating of 12 volts ⅜ inch ratchet wrench size 1-year long warranty 170 RPM motor speed rating 45 feet pounds torque rating
Pros:
Decent battery life with 2.0 Ah battery Justified price tag with given features High torque electric motor
Cons:
Average build quality Does not have any extra accessories
3. KIMO Electric Ratchet
KIMO is a popular brand that has been developing a wide range of power tools for the past of 25 years. The brand has earned a special reputation for its high efficiency batteries that last a long time. This is an extremely powerful electric ratchet that comes with a maximum torque of 40 feet-lbs and delivers up to 400 RPM. Besides, there is a variable speed trigger for optimizing the speed. Its performance is comparable to the air ratchets except that the cordless design allows for maximum portability along with silent operation. The electric ratchet is lightweight with only 2.2 lbs that allows you to operate the ratchet easily. Besides, it features an ultra-slim head design so that you can reach tight spots and small corners without any difficulties. KIMO’s electric ratchet has an ergonomic handle to provide comfort and help you hold it securely without straining your hands. Also, the ratchet has 2 rubber pieces that absorb vibration and can withstand corrosive materials. The built-in LED lights illuminate your work area so that you can ratchet nuts and bolts with precision even in low lights. There is also a fuel that shows the remaining run time of the ratchet. The ratchet is powered by KIMO 12V batteries that have at least 1,000 cycles and last for a long time. This electric ratchet is backed by a 2 years warranty from the date of purchase. Best Features
⅜ inch ratchet wrench size 2 years long warranty 400 RPM motor speed 40 feet-lbs torque rating 60 minutes fast charge rating
Pros
Powerful electric ratchet Extremely lightweight and portable Ergonomically designed handle
Cons
Expensive
4. Neiko Ratchet
Coming to the last option present in this article, we have Neiko that is quite an affordable brand of ratchets. This Neiko 03067A ratchet is the only option present in this article that is a manual model. Even though this is a manual model, it offers decent performance with its ⅜ inch ratchet size. A great thing about this ratchet is that it comes at a highly affordable price tag for peace that makes it a great pick for users who are on a budget. As per its name, you can change the length of this ratchet from 8 ½ inch to 12 ⅜ to increase its reach. If you wish to use this ratchet for a long time, then its soft-grip handle is just perfect for you. Talking about its construction, it offers a very decent construction to the user. Unfortunately, the warranty is only 30 days long. Best Features:
Manual ratchet tool 72 tooth ratchet mechanism ⅜ inch ratchet wrench size 30-day long warranty 8 ½ inch to 12 ⅜ inch ratchet length
Pros:
Comes with a soft grip for ease of use Highly affordable price tag for users on a budget Decent performance for a manual ratchet model
Cons:
Only a 30-day long warranty duration Not a powered ratchet model
5. Ingersoll Rand Ratchet
You can find a wide range of pneumatic power tools from Ingersoll Rand, including a ratchet tool with decent performance for the given price tag. This Ingersoll Rand 170G ratchet is present in the 3rd position in this article as it is another great option if you are looking for a value for money product. Even though it has a relatively lower price tag, you get a ⅜ inch ratchet size. Since it is a pneumatic model, it offers up to 55 feet pounds of torque to the user for ease of use. You also get a decent motor speed of up to 170 RPM while using this ratchet. Since this ratchet comes with an ergonomic and comfortable handgrip, you can keep using it for a long time at once without any issues. Just like most other options out there, this one also comes with a 1-year long warranty. Best Features:
Pneumatic ratchet with power rating of 90 PSI ⅜ inch ratchet wrench size 1-year long warranty 170 RPM motor speed rating 55 feet pounds torque rating
Pros:
Decent value for money Offers high torque rating Comes with an ergonomic grip handle
Cons:
Lacks any additional accessories in the box
6. Aircat Ratchet
Just per its name, Aircat is known for making pneumatic power tools that are generally quite powerful, which is also true for its ratchet model offering. The Aircat ACR802R pneumatic ratchet is the most powerful option present in this article. This is possible due to the reason that this pneumatic power tool is able to offer a high motor speed of up to 280 RPM. When combined with its equally high torque rating of 90 feet pounds, you can easily use this ratchet for all kinds of heavy-duty and industrial usage. If you want, you can also use this ⅜ inch air ratchet in a quiet mode that reduces the noise output to just 85 decibels. As for its warranty, you get a 1-year warranty with it along with a decent build quality that is always great to have. Best Features:
Pneumatic ratchet with power rating of 90 PSI ⅜ inch ratchet wrench size 1-year long warranty 280 RPM motor speed rating 90 feet pounds torque rating
Pros:
Most powerful ratchet tool in this article Offers decent build quality and 1-year long warranty Very quiet when compared with others
Cons:
Does not have any accessories in the box Slightly on the expensive side
7. Juemel Electric Ratchet
Juemel is a relatively small brand that is dedicated to provide innovative power tool solutions for all your needs. The brand designs power tools for professionals as well as DIY users. Juemel’s electric ratchet runs on a powerful 16.8V motor that delivers a maximum torque of 46 N-m and delivers up to 400 RPM. The variable speed trigger allows you to select a speed between 0 and 400 RPM depending on the thickness of the material you want to ratchet the nuts and bolts. The electric ratchet is lightweight with only 5.59 pounds and compact in size. This allows you to handle and operate this electric ratchet conveniently and achieve a high precision. The built-in LED lights allow you to use the electric ratchet even in dark rooms by providing clear visibility. The electric ratchet is powered by two 2000 mAh batteries that take only 40 minutes to charge fully. There is a slot inside the socket that provides stability and ensures the socket does not shake or fall off. Along with the electric ratchet, you get 2 screwdrivers with ⅜-inch and ¼-inch adapters and sockets of 7 different sizes. While this electric ratchet comes with a warranty, the exact time period of the warranty has not been specified by the seller. Best Features
⅜ inch ratchet wrench size 400 RPM motor speed rating 46 N-m torque rating Powered by two 2000 mAh batteries 40 minutes fast charge rating
Pros
High torque rating Comes with 7 different size sockets Easy to use with a smooth operation
Cons
A bit on the expensive end Warranty is not specified
How to Choose the Best Ratchet:
Though the ratchets look similar from the exterior design, yet they differ a lot in internal design. So, you have to consider various factors like its sizes, construction materials, and convenient features to buy the best ratchet that suits best for your requirement. We have mentioned all of them in detail, just take a look at them while shopping for a ratchet.
1. Drive Size:
It is mentioned as the socket size (the size of bolt or nut a given socket is designed for) that fits on the drive square of the ratchet. Usually, the drive size is measured in inches, and 3/8-inch, 1/4-inch, and 1/2-inch are the three main drive sizes available. Depending on the type of task you’re performing, you have to pick the best-suited drive size. Small size drives are an ideal option to do specific DIY tasks, where you require perfect control to reach tight spots. While large size drives suit better to do tougher tasks like fixing bolts on a car wheel. One has to know the type of tasks they are doing along with issues faced quite often while performing the tasks to get the best ratchet for their toolbox. If you want to purchase a tool with a single drive size, then go with a 3/8-inch drive ratchet having compatible sockets. As it is smaller to fit easily in tight places (under the dishwasher or alongside an engine block) and robust to sustain a bit more force (pressure or torque).
2. Tooth Count:
The tooth count of a ratchet will refer to the number of teeth on a drive gear, which in turn, let you know the distance you have to move the handle for engaging the next tooth. This number will make a big difference based on the situation/task you are using the ratchet. For example, if you compare two ratchets with different tooth counts, say one is 120-tooth, and another one is 60-tooth. Then using a high tooth count ratchet (120-model) won’t let you spin the ratchet several times. This less handle movement is because of less distance between the teeth, which creates a smaller arc and completes work quickly. There is a larger distance between the teeth in ratchet with lower tooth count. Thus, more energy and time are consumed to tighten screws and nuts. Among ratchets with varying tooth counts, a model with 120-tooth is considered the most common and highest one. Hence, select a ratchet with a higher tooth count to complete your work quickly and efficiently, especially in tight scenarios or awkward spaces, where it has limited motion. Twist ratchet in small increments to progress on the fastener, regardless of loosening or tightening it.
3. Head Design (Fixed or Flex or Swivel Head):
Usually, the ratchets with round-head and pear-head are designed as fixed or flexible. A flexible (flex) head features a built-in pivot for easy access to hard-to-reach fasteners. As the name implies, this flex point will allow the ratchet’s head to be at a different angle than the remaining part of its handle. While ratchets with a fixed head won’t have these features. Both of these head designs have their pros and cons. Avoid using a flex-head ratchet while working in a high-torque case, why because it may cause some potential failure to the tool. As you may be prone to shear the ratchet’s drive anvil rather than ruin the flex pivot. Also, flex-head ratchets are a bit expensive than fixed-head ratchets. Most experts suggest you maintain both types while working on different car models. Swivel ratchet or roto-head is another option available for ratchet’s head design. It is mainly round head ratchet or palm ratchet, in which it is attached to a ratchet in such a way that offers a 270° rotation of the drive. Though they are bulky, yet come in handy while using. Moreover, they can swap easily from ratchet to nut driver whenever more torque is required for quick removal of the fastener. Also, it is quite useful in awkward situations, where the standard ratchet with a fixed/flex-head won’t work effectively.
4. Socket Release:
There is a quick-release button on the back of the ratchet head, which releases the socket from the tool’s face. It conveniently switches sockets for different sized fasteners without removing the socket by hand. If your ratchet won’t have this feature, then you need to pull the socket off with your hand. It would be quite challenging, especially in tight quarters. For instance, if you work under a car, then you might be at risk when the socket pops loose. Also, it will be frustrating to make socket removal (even with non-slip textures) with greasy hands. So, this quick-release feature in the ratchets will make it easy and safe to use. Regular oiling will keep them working smoothly and efficiently without any issues.
5. Length:
A ratchet with a longer handle will apply torque easily to the fastener, and thereby release a bolt with less effort. Also, it quickly suppresses the strength of the fastener, which results to tear or strip the head off of the fastener. Mostly, the ratchet handles are meant to use for optimal torque application, in which it should be long enough to apply leverage and loosen bolts. Yet remember that it should not be too long, as it might destroy the fastener with its marginal effort. Moreover, check whether you can manipulate the ratchet into a given position while considering its length, why because a ratchet with a long handle won’t work effectively under the car’s hood. Some ratchets are designed to be small, which are compact, portable, and can be used anywhere for emergencies. Yet the main problem arises when you are unable to get your hands around them for their proper usage. To clear all these length issues, a few manufacturers designed extendable ratchets, which becomes quite popular these days. These models enhance job flexibility and thereby minimize the need for several tools to do the work.
6. Weight:
The usage of heavier ratchets will make the user quickly feel fatigue. Also, the type of work you do will make you tire out easily. Remember that if you work above the head like driving lag screws over the ledger board of a deck will make a lightweight ratchet feel cumbersome and heavy. So, always prefer to buy a high-quality, lighter ratchet that lets you do your work quickly and easily without much exhausting. Mostly ratchets are made with heavy-duty materials like chrome, chrome-molybdenum steel, or chrome-vanadium steel. So, these are usually heavy and can weigh easily up to 2 – 4 pounds. Prefer to purchase ratchets that weigh below 2 pounds for optimum efficiency and productivity.
7. Material:
Most of these ratchets are made of chrome vanadium steel, as they are durable and capable to withstand extreme conditions, yet the built quality varies a lot. However, chrome vanadium is an alloy (mix of metals) that provides specific attributes like strength, shock-resistance, weight, and other features at an affordable price. These alloys are formed due to a metallurgic recipe, where the quality is based on the quantity of metals mixed. Also, consider your working conditions. If working in a colder temperature area, then go with a polyshell coated ratchet. While working in a high-temperature location, pick a ratchet with a heat-treated chrome-molybdenum steel alloy construction, which is highly resistant to extreme temperatures.
8. Pawl Design:
Pawl (or levers) is designed to rest on gear head and interlocks to let you turn the other way. In general, you require double pawls or at a minimum of one with a high contact rate. The pawl engages to determine the direction a gear can freely spin, and prevent the drive from moving in the opposite direction. When the user turns the handle, one lever work to tighten the bolt or nut, while the other one loosens a fastener. If the bit won’t go, then it snaps. There are various pawl designs available to choose from. Ensure to select the right option as per your requirement.
9. Ratchet Head Style:
As per the shape of the ratchet’s heads, they are classified into two styles. Here the head shape will decide the type of mechanism used to do ratcheting. Usually, pear head (pear-shaped) and round head (round-shaped) are two main styles. Also, the ratchet’s style will decide the direction of ratchet switches. For instance, a round-head ratchet has the switch into the back (as a knob), while a pear-head ratchet has a small selector switch adjacent to the head’s base. Remember that ratchets with the round head are bulkier compared to pear-head ratchets.
10. Power:
Ratchets are available with different power types or sources to power up their ratcheting mechanism. They include a manual, electric battery, and pneumatic, in which different power types are ideal for different kinds of applications or usages. Among them, pneumatic models are the most powerful option that runs with a power rating of 90 PSI or 120 PSI. Battery-powered models are highly practical and portable and run with a power rating of 12V or 20V. Finally, manual models are great for budget-friendly users, whose power rating depends on the force exerted by the user while using it.
11. Handle Design:
The handle design of the ratchet will play a key role in its comfort and ease of use and thereby make it more productive or efficient. Prefer to choose a ratchet having a cushioned non-slip handle for comfortable usage. While for ease of use, go with an ergonomic design handle having easy-to-reach switches. Some models come with round handles, while others have rectangular handles. Also, there are various rubber or padded cushioned handle varieties. Each style has its own set of pros and cons, and its selection depends on one’s personal preference. For instance, the padded version is hard to hold/grip compared to rubber, while rubber becomes dirt easily over time and a bit difficult to clean.
12. Ergonomics:
The ergonomic design of the ratchet will protect your hands from its hard surfaces, and thereby enhance comfort while working on it. For instance, covered and padded handles will improve grip and minimize slipping. So, a handle designed ergonomically with a comfortable non-slip grip will be your best option. However, handle designs might have thermal plastic materials, polypropylene, and anti-slip grooves.
13. Single Vs. Set:
Usually, ratchets are available either as a single tool (as above-mentioned reviews) or a set. A ratchet set offers a wide range of different-sized tools that let you do several chores. Yet, remember that a ratchet set is not required in all homes. So, find your best ratchet option based on the type of tasks you do around the home or vehicles and the frequency of using these tools. Thus, you can easily narrow down the options and grab the right one as per your requirements.
14. Price:
Most experts suggest you find the best option that provides a proper balance between your requirements and budget. The price range of ratchet will be from $10 – $200, in which a single ratchet comes at below $50, while a combinational set is available from above $50. Ensure to pick the model that lasts longer with the best-built quality rather than cheaper options.
15. Warranty:
If you want to use a ratchet for a long time, then prefer to purchase a highly durable and reliable model offering a long manufacturer’s warranty. Most ratchet options out there come with a 1-year warranty, while some other options provide a 5-year long warranty. Also, check the after-sales service like repair or replacement process offered by the company within the warranty period. Some require the user to ship them in, while others can easily switch them. So, inspect properly to know whether it is a frustrating or easy process.
Conclusion
You can find a lot of tools out there that can be handy for tightening nuts and bolts. While most of them are manual, you can also find some powered models. Since such ratchets can save you a lot of time and labor, we are here with some of the best ratchets. We have also mentioned their major features and options so that you can easily find the differences between them. If that is not enough for you, then the buying guide present in this article should be handy since it takes you through the various aspects and factors of these ratchets. Although, if you want to save time, you can go through the following ratchet recommendations one by one and choose the perfect one for your requirements:
The Milwaukee ratchet is the most durable and reliable option present in this article. Apart from having an excellent build quality, you get a 5-year long warranty that is not available with any other ratchet option present in this article. Although, if you are on a budget, then you can consider the Neiko ratchet. While it is a manual model, it performs as good as any other powered model option out there with its included features and ⅜ inch ratchet size. If you want a high torque rating in your ratchet for industrial usage and heavy-duty applications, then you should also consider the Aircat ratchet. Since it is a pneumatic tool, it goes up to 90 feet pounds torque and a motor speed of 280 RPM.
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