A good mechanics toolkit can cost a lot of money, so it’s important to make sure you’re buying something that will last.
Kobalt and Craftsman both offer two of the best toolkits on the market, and it can be hard which is the right toolkit for your needs.
The number and quality of sockets & ratchets, the durability of the toolbox, and the length of the warranty are all valid considerations when it comes to deciding which is best.
To save you time – we’ve compared Kobolt vs Craftsman Toolkits side-by-side to make it easy for you to decide which is the right choice for you.
Buy with the confidence that you’re buying the highest-quality toolset. Let’s get straight into the comparison.
Contents
Kobalt vs Craftsman Tool Chest
Kobalt 227-Piece Standard/Metric Mechanics Tool Set with Case 86756
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
If you’re looking for unrivaled quality, then Kobalt tools are the way to go. This Kobalt toolset provides practically every hand tool you could ever need.
This 227-piece kit includes 117 commonly used 6-point and 12-point sockets, 3 ratchets, 4 extensions, 30 combination wrenches, 40 hex keys, and 33 assorted tools.
This toolset comes packaged in a secure toolbox containing spacious shelves with clear markings. The tool drawer also comes with an empty bottom drawer that allows you to store any additional tools you might need.
Sockets are constructed of chrome vanadium steel for strength and durability and have a professional-grade, high-polish finish.
The quick-release button on ratchets allows for rapid socket and/or accessory change.
Their drivers are equipped with a handle featuring an ergonomic design that makes it more comfortable to handle. There is also a small hole at the top of the handle that can be used to hang the tool on a rack should you want to move it from the box set for faster access.
A 1/4-in Drive Ratchet and 3/8-in Drive Ratchet are included, as well as deep and shallow sockets and a spark plug socket.
Their drivers also come with an interchangeable feature that allows you to use different sized bits without having to flood your workspace with the different options available. The bits connect with a magnetic feature that allows for faster switches when working with different sizes.
Kobalt has outdone themselves with a toolset that just screams quality, and they’ve stood behind this quality with a lifetime guarantee.
Buy this Kobolt tool chest with the confidence that you’re buying tools that will last a lifetime.
Pros:
- Huge lifetime warranty
- Alloyed steel construction for guaranteed durability
- Professional grade, high-polish finish
- Quick-release button on ratchets allows for rapid socket and/or accessory change
- High-quality 90-tooth ratchets
- Ideal flexibility with multiple sizes to work in both small, tight spaces and large areas
Cons:
- Toolchest is a bit flimsy
- Slightly pricier vs Craftsman
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
Craftsman 320-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
- Includes 146 sockets in 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2"; 3 quick release 36T ratchets in 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2"; 12 combination wrenches and 109 other specialty tools
- Metric, inch, standard and deep well sockets fit three ratchets
- Ideal flexibility with multiple sizes to work in both small, tight spaces and large areas
Craftsman’s toolset includes a few extra pieces, comes in at a significantly lower price compared to the Kobalt kit above. The Craftsman Tools aren’t quite as high quality as the Kobolt toolset, but they’re much more affordable.
This kit includes a total of 152 six, eight, and twelve-point sockets as well as ¼”, ⅜,” and ½” ratchets. Four extension bars are also included to make it easier to work in tight spaces.
This kit also includes 40 different Allen keys in short and long-armed varieties, a blow-molded toolbox, a magnetic screwdriver handle with 96 insert bits and a dozen nut drivers, and eight combination wrenches.
One of the first things you notice about the packaging is that the toolbox has a sturdy design that will not fall apart if mishandled. The design also incorporates a latching system on the sides that keep the drawers in check and will not allow them to slip open during movement.
The molded spaces within, however, are not always precise, which can lead to some small tools falling out of the box is moved too roughly.
The drivers available offer the owner two choices when it comes to fixing different bit sizes onto the head. One can either use the detached bits available with the collection, thanks to the hex key fitted in the end. You can also choose to use actual driving portions if you’re not a big fan of the former.
The drivers are screwed onto the head in a matter of seconds, and provide a steady base for your work. The portions come in different sizes ranging from 8 to 12 mm.
One of the best things about the range on offer is that they feature a no-skip module that ensures you get all the sizes in between the largest and smallest options available.
While this Craftsman toolset is definitely above average, it’s quality isn’t quite as good as Kobalt tools. That said, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, Craftsman is a good choice.
Pros:
- Huge lifetime warranty
- Durable tool chest with reliable latches
- Outstanding price – great value for money
- Includes plenty of hand tools – 146 sockets in 1/4″, 3/8″ and 1/2″; 3 quick release 36T ratchets in 1/4″, 3/8″ and 1/2″; 12 combination wrenches (and 109 other specialty tools)
Cons:
- Toolchest isn’t very durable (although more durable than Kobalt)
- Screwdriver handles were very average
- Construction quality was not as high as Kobalt
- Includes 146 sockets in 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2"; 3 quick release 36T ratchets in 1/4", 3/8" and 1/2"; 12 combination wrenches and 109 other specialty tools
- Metric, inch, standard and deep well sockets fit three ratchets
- Ideal flexibility with multiple sizes to work in both small, tight spaces and large areas
Verdict: Kobalt vs Craftsman
Overall both the Kobalt and Craftsman set have a huge number of high-quality hand tools. Although each of the two brands has its advantages, Kobalt has a better quality toolset. If you don’t think you’ll be using your tools much, then go for Craftsman to save some money.
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories
