6 Best Home Tool Sets of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
We found the best home tool sets for homeowners and DIYers, filled with all the essential tools for basic home maintenance.
Kamron Sanders
Tested by Kamron Sanders
A home tool kit is an essential purchase for homeowners, whether you’ve just bought your first home or are looking to tidy up the tool drawer. Home tool kits are designed with homeowners in mind as a collection of essential everyday tools, all housed in one organized case or bag.
As a DIYer, craftsman, shade-tree mechanic and home improvement specialist who happens to live in a 120-plus-year-old house, I do my fair share of home maintenance on a weekly (sometimes daily) basis. I’ve learned what tool designs work well and what tools simply aren’t worth buying.
After comparing and testing nearly 1,500 tools, we’ve determined which home tool kit is the best. Below, we’ve listed our top home tool sets and explained what to consider when shopping for home tool kits.
Our Top Picks for Home Tool Sets
How We Tested
To find the best home tool sets, we compared 13 different options with positive customer reviews from various brands. Each home tool kit was tested for quality, tool selection, size, value and ease of operation, while the tools themselves were compared and tested head-to-head. We also took into consideration any unique tool inclusions and accessories you don’t often find in home tool kits.
To test the tools, we simply used them. Some tools immediately proved useful, while others suffered as a result or poor design and cheap quality.
Case Test: First, we inspected the quality and design of the cases holding all the tools by operating the buckles, inspecting the hinges, and opening the case. We noted whether the tools stayed in place when the case was opened or fell out of their slots. We also noted whether the hard cases were easy to reload with tools and whether the plastic looked stressed when doing so.
Kamron Sanders
Hammer Test: To test the hammers, we performed a straightforward test of hammering nails into a board to see how useful and effective each option was. While every hammer in the group eventually drove the nail into the board, some did it with ease, while others had more difficulty. Some hammers drove the nail, but I was less than confident in my ability to hold onto the hammer due to their slick material and undersized handles.
Kamron Sanders
Pliers Test: To test the various types of pliers, we performed a variety of tasks, such as lawn mower maintenance, plumbing maintenance and even some electrical wiring that showed how easy and effective they were to use. While all the pliers worked, some felt frustrating to use, as they were either too small in the hand or had an awkward shape to them. Others felt totally natural, which helped tasks go more smoothly.
Screwdriver Test: To test the many different screwdrivers and bits for quality and ease of use, we utilized them on the same jobs as the pliers. While many screwdrivers and bits looked similar, slight changes in the design of the handle and the shape and length of the tools proved to make major differences when used in real-world scenarios.
Kamron Sanders
Wrench Test: To test the different types of wrenches, such as adjustable wrenches and combination wrenches, we utilized them on many of the same projects as the pliers and screwdrivers. Again, the largest difference in performance came down to the size of the tools and the design of the grips, as some wrenches were undersized for most jobs and felt awkward in the hand.
Kamron Sanders
Ratchet and Socket Test: While not every home tool kit included ratchets and sockets, we tested those that did by performing seasonal maintenance on a lawnmower. We even used these tools to swap out a PTO clutch on our zero-turn mower, which really separated the serious ratchets from the cheap imitations.
Kamron Sanders
Miscellaneous Tool Test: Beyond the standard home tool kit offerings of hammers, pliers, screwdrivers and wrenches, we tested any other tools for use and quality. Some kits had measuring tapes, levels, scissors, hex keys and utility knives, while others even included putty knives, cordless screwdrivers, drills, bottle openers, picture hanging kits, electrical tape and more.
- Case is thin and well-made
- Tools are full-size and feel comfortable to use
- Great assortment of homeowner tools
- No designated screwdrivers
- Adjustable wrench is small
The Husky 110-Piece Homeowner’s Set is about as close to our ideal home tool kit as it gets, which made it an easy choice for the ‘Best Overall’ pick. It has all the essentials and nearly everything feels above average both quality-wise and design-wise. Plus, the tools are all organized in a high-quality molded case with a thin profile, which makes it easy to stash it in a drawer, cabinet or even behind the seat in your car.
The Husky tool kit had a few standout tools that gave it an edge in the head-to-head testing. The 16 oz. fiberglass claw hammer was our favorite in the group, and we loved its rubbery grip and integrated nail starter, which aids in starting nails in hard-to-reach places and prevents finger smashing. We also really loved the heavy-duty, auto-loading utility knife, which was the nicest and best-performing in the test group.
While the Husky tool kit doesn’t include any combination wrenches or sockets, it does have both metric and SAE nut driver bits, which work for most homeowner scenarios. This tool kit also included some of the best needle-nose pliers in the group and our favorite measuring tape.
The only thing this kit really lacks is designated screwdrivers, which we’d love to see alongside the screwdriver handle and bit assortment, but you’re definitely covered with the 72 bits. And, while the adjustable wrench is nice, it is a little small.
- Number of Tools 110
- Size 10.15” x 14.64” x 2.83”
- Weight 7.8 lbs.
- Hard or Soft Case Hard
- Warranty Lifetime
- Great assortment of homeowner tools
- Nice adjustable wrench
- Good price
- Case bends and feels weak when you put tools back
- No warranty
Working on a budget? The ANVIL 76-Piece Homeowner's Tool Set will cover all your homeowner tool needs for under $50.
While we weren’t as impressed with the tools in this set compared to the Husky set, they still get the job done. Plus, this set includes a few additional tool offerings, such as four clamps, hex keys and slip-groove pliers.
One standout tool in the Anvil kit is the adjustable wrench, which we preferred over the Husky adjustable wrench, and many others in the group. Its jaws open to 1-1/8” and its larger handle with a rubbery dipped grip made it much easier to control.
- Number of Tools 76
- Size 10.08” x 13.2” x 2.85”
- Weight 6 lbs.
- Hard or Soft Case Hard
- Warranty No
- Great assortment of tools
- A good number of useful tools at a low price
- Wrench, pliers and ratchet have thick, rubbery grips that are easy to hold
- The case isn't very heavy-duty
- The hammer is too small
The DEKOPRO 158-Piece Tool Set is a great value at under $60. In addition to the expected inclusions of a homeowner tool set, this kit includes a surprisingly extensive set of metric and SAE sockets and a high-quality ratchet. We also loved the inclusion of high-quality combination wrenches, though they’re limited to metric sizes.
What really stood out to us about the DEKOPRO tool set were the rubbery, easy-to-hold grips, particularly on the 3/8-inch ratchet, the adjustable wrench and the needle nose pliers. Plus, most tools were sized like real tools rather than mini versions, which is often the case in many homeowner tool sets.
What limits this tool set is the small size of the hammer, which feels awkward in the hand. Plus, the case feels like it may not last very long, as the hinges looked stressed after a few uses.
- Number of Tools 158
- Size 15.7" x 3.4" x 11"
- Weight 10 lbs.
- Hard or Soft Case Hard
- Warranty No
- Very nice, full-size tools
- Comes with many tool options not found in similar sets, plus all the essentials
- Very nice, heavy-duty bag with tons of extra storage
- Pricier than other options
The Kobalt Household Tool Kit is a step up from your standard homeowner tool set. As you would expect, the price is a step up as well. However, at just $149, we still think this set is a steal.
At a whopping 267 pieces, this tool kit is incredibly comprehensive. However, if that isn’t enough, the massive tool bag has a ton of extra space, including extra pockets on the inside and outside for expanding your tool collection.
In fact, the tools were great and we were pleased with all of them, but the soft case was what we loved most about this set. It has designated spots for every tool, plus extras as mentioned above. Best of all, it has a real, heavy-duty zipper. Unlike most dainty zippers used on soft tool cases, this zipper is actually qualified for the job.
When you factor in Kobalt’s amazing Hassle-Free Lifetime Guarantee, you can’t go wrong with this tool set.
- Number of Tools 267
- Size 10.5” x 10” x 18.2”
- Weight 18 lbs.
- Hard or Soft Case Soft
- Warranty Lifetime
- Very heavy-duty case with metal buckles
- Lifetime warranty
- Tools feel very high-quality
- Pricier than other options
- Missing many of the essential homeowner tools, such as a hammer, pliers and a measuring tape
While the DeWalt Mechanics Tools Kit was a shoo-in for the "Most Durable" selection on our list, it could also be labeled "Best for Mechanics." In fact, this set is geared more toward the mechanic world, with tons of sockets, ratchets, combination wrenches, extensions and more.
If you're looking for a homeowner set that covers all your bases, this isn't the set for you. There's no hammer, no measuring tape, no pliers, no level, etc., but, if you're looking for high-quality mechanics tools, you can't go wrong with this set. You can just go buy a hammer, right?
Mechanics tools are very heavy. Luckily, this set comes equipped with an incredibly durable molded plastic case with metal buckles, something that can't be said for any other tool set we tested.
- Number of Tools 142
- Size 18.75” x 13.75” x 3.75”
- Weight 16.4 lbs.
- Hard or Soft Case Hard
- Warranty Lifetime
- Great assortment of essential tools
- Good price point
- Includes many unique, useful tools in addition to the essentials
- Tools and case feel a little cheap
- Hammer is too small
- No manual screwdrivers
The Apollo Tools 135-Piece Household Tool Set is maybe the most accurate depiction of a homeowner tool kit, as it comes with just about everything a homeowner would need and nothing they wouldn’t.
Beyond the standard offerings of a hammer, wrench, pliers, etc., the Apollo Tools set features a few unique inclusions, like a picture-hanging hardware kit, a putty knife, electrical tape and a cordless screwdriver.
We really enjoyed the cordless screwdriver, as it worked well. However, the only manual screwdrivers in this set are small, precision screwdrivers, which doesn't make a lot of sense. Sure, the cordless screwdriver is handy, but manual screwdrivers seem like a necessity. I can think of several household tasks I’ve done lately that wouldn’t be possible without them.
- Number of Tools 135
- Size 10.71" x 4.02" x 14.76"
- Weight 6.5 lbs.
- Hard or Soft Case Hard
- Warranty Lifetime on hand tools; One year on cordless screwdriver
What to Consider When Buying a Home Tool Set
When shopping for a home tool set, it's easy to get caught up in the many options that come with each model. Here are the main things you should consider:
Case Size: Most homeowner tool sets come with a case made of either hard molded plastic or soft fabric. If you have limited space or you plan on storing the tool set in a tight space such as a kitchen drawer, check the dimensions of the case before purchasing to ensure it will fit. Pro tip: The size of the case doesn't directly parallel the quantity of the tools, as many kits inflate the tool quantity number with dozens of tiny drill bits.
Tools: Naturally, you should check the included tools in a homeowner tool set to make sure it includes tools you actually need. At a minimum, look for a kit with a quality hammer, good pliers, an adjustable wrench, measuring tape and screwdrivers.
Storage: If you plan on adding tools to your collection, it's a good idea to look for a tool set that has extra storage for additional tools, such as the Kobalt 267-Piece Household Tool Set.
Kamron Sanders
Tool Size: Many household tool sets include mini versions of tools to cheapen the price and fit more tools inside the case. Sometimes, it's not a huge deal, but if you have larger hands, you'll find using these tools very frustrating and even dangerous.
Warranty: Of course, you should always be mindful of warranties when shopping for tools. However, just because your tools have a lifetime warranty, doesn't mean getting them replaced will be easy. When in doubt, look for tools that offer easy replacement from major brands like Kobalt, Husky and DeWalt.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What tools should be in a basic tool kit? A basic tool kit should include tools you'll use most frequently, such as screwdrivers, a hammer, pliers, an adjustable wrench and a measuring tape.
- Where should you store a tool kit? You should keep a tool kit in an easy-to-access area, such as a kitchen drawer, pantry or utility closet. If you have spare tools, it's not a bad idea to keep a few inside your vehicle.
- Who makes the best home tool set? According to our testing, Husky makes the best home tool set. It comes with a high-quality case with a thin profile and several tools that are easy and effective to use.
Other Home Tool Sets We Tested
We tested two tool sets from Amazon Basics. While the tools weren't bad for the price, they didn't wow us and left us wanting more. The Amazon Basics 65-Piece General Household Home Repair and Mechanic's Hand Tool Kit Set had some of our favorite pliers, even including locking groove pliers and linesman pliers, but the ratchets and wrenches were nothing special. Plus, the sockets only came in metric sizes, which was a huge negative for us.
The Amazon Basics 65-Piece Home Basic Repair Tool Kit Set With Bag came with a few different tools that felt awkward, including a ratchet with a cheap, antiquated design that, unlike the other Amazon Basics kit, included only SAE sockets. The roomy bag wasn't bad, but its zipper was horrible and constantly got stuck.
The CARTMAN 39-Piece Tool Set General Household Hand Kit felt incredibly cheap, which didn't surprise us given its $20 price point. But, even with a low price, we still wouldn't recommend purchasing it. The tools felt sloppy and the tiny hammer felt more like a dangerous toy than a tool.
The beyond by BLACK+DECKER Home Tool Kit with 20V MAX Drill/Driver had some surprisingly good tools. We loved the pliers and the adjustable wrench. It even comes with a drill. However, as someone who has tested their fair share of drills, we weren't impressed by this cheap drill. Instead, we recommend buying quality tools and a better drill. Plus, this was by far the worst case included with any set.
We had high hopes for the Crescent 150-Piece Set, but it had a few design flaws that held it back. The biggest issue we observed in testing was the poor design of the case and clasps, which made it frustrating to use. In the end, it featured many of the same tools as the DeWalt set that took the "Most Durable" spot, but the Crescent set just wasn't as good.
Why You Should Trust Our Tester
This article was written by Kamron Sanders, a freelance home improvement writer and professional product tester with over 15 years of experience with DIYs, remodeling, construction and woodworking. For this list of best home tool sets, he tested 13 models from online retailers like Amazon, The Home Depot, Walmart and Lowes, exploring products ranging in size, quantity, price, accessories, design and more. He evaluated each tool set for ease of use, durability, quality, functionality, usefulness and design, as well as price point and overall value, noting his likes and dislikes to determine the overall winners we think you’ll love.
Why You Should Trust HGTV Shopping Experts
HGTV Shopping Experts believe the best method for testing products is based on how our fans are going to use them in the real world. In each of our Tested and Reviewed stories, products are not tested in sterile laboratory settings that don't mimic real life. Instead, we test products in real homes that reflect our readers' real lives, which can also include pets, kids, partners and more. We follow rigorous testing rubrics designed by our expert editors and take copious notes during the testing process. When choosing our top picks, we evaluate all of our testing data and take into consideration many factors including ease of use, price, product availability and practicality. Our goal is to choose the best products for our readers.
