Best Hex Key Sets That Can Withstand Plenty of Use
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Wilmar Hex Key Set -
JEGS Performance Products Hex Key Set -
TEKTON Hex Key Set -
Fuller Tool 130-8030 30-Piece Combo Metric Hex Key Set -
Park Tool PH-1 Hex Wrench Set -
Pittsburgh T-Handle Ball Point and Hex Key Wrench Set -
Klein Tools T-Handle Ball End Hex Keys - JTH68MB -
Wiha Ball-End T-Handle Hex Key Set - 54092 -
Eklind Tool 60814 Power-T Ball Hex Key Set -
Buyer's Guide
A hex key set might just be my most used tool nowadays and I am regularly impressed by how well a set can stand up to the abuse inflicted upon it. For these lists I found the best balance of durability and price in the right range of sizes. Each best hex key set in 2022 on these lists will stand up to abuse and function beautifully for years to come thanks to careful designing and high quality materials.
The Best Hex Key Set Models of 2022 in Detail
Wilmar Hex Key Set - Best Hex Key Set Overall
Like the Pittsburg set, this one also includes both SAE (fractional) and metric wrenches. However, there are only 10 total wrenches, so you’ll be missing a few sizes. However, the sizes included are the most commonly encountered. Wilmar has molded the handles of these wrenches in two different colors, one for SAE and one for metric, which should greatly decrease the possibility of confusion. I like the idea of having one set that has both SAE and metric, because nowadays one never knows which one the piece of equipment they are working on will have.
JEGS Performance Products Hex Key Set - Runner Up
This 10 piece SAE set comes in a nice metal stand, with the sizes silk-screened on the side. Wrenches range from 3/32" up to 3/8", providing you with a good assortment for most homeowner applications. The wrenches are separated into two different groups, with the larger ones having a longer shaft than the shorter group does. All 10 wrenches have the same T-handle which makes the wrenches comfortable to work with, even when you have to apply a lot of force. JEGS also supplies a similar metric set, for those who need it.
TEKTON Hex Key Set - Honorable Mention
While handles are nice to have, the handleless style of hex key wrenches is more traditional. These allow you to use higher torque for loosening and tightening, then switch over to the other arm for speedier installation and removal. This 30 piece set comes with both SAE and metric sizes, with the SAE set being slightly longer than the metric, making it easier to identify which group a particular wrench came from. The wrenches are housed in a wallet-type index case, making them easier to find. Precision grinding ensures that these wrenches will fit the socket correctly and work properly.
Fuller Tool 130-8030 30-Piece Combo Metric Hex Key Set - Consider
Fuller tools also provides a combination SAE and metric set, much like the one from Tekton. SAE sizes from 0.028", through 1/16" up to 3/8". Metric sizes range from 0.7mm up to 10 mm. That should cover everything you need. By having them in one combined case, you always have both sets with you, so you'll never end up with the wrong size for the project you're working on. I hate it when I grab a metric set and find out that I actually needed a SAE one. With this kit, than only means returning the wrong size back to the case and looking on the other side.
Park Tool PH-1 Hex Wrench Set - Best Hex Key Set Overall
My top pick for hex key wrench sets is actually a set that is made for bicycle maintenance. This is a most unique set in that five of the wrenches have built-in “spinners,” which the manufacturer calls “speed bearings” for quick removal of long hex screws. It might be easier to think of it as a short sleeve over the long shaft of the wrench. Once the screw is broken loose, you can hold the sleeve with one hand, while spinning the handle of the wrench with a finger of the other hand (similar to spinning a star wrench used for wheel lug nuts). All the wrenches have ball ends on the long shaft, and chamfered ends on the short shaft. The handles are probably the most comfortable on the market as they are well fitted to the hand while a wall-hanging holder keeps your tools organized.
Pittsburgh T-Handle Ball Point and Hex Key Wrench Set - Best Hex Key Set Overall
Although Pittsburgh Tools is not a company that people typically mention when they talk about the top tool manufacturers, they do produce a large number of excellent tools. Of all the sets I’ve looked at, this is the only one I have found that includes both SAE and Metric sizes; everyone else makes you buy two different sets. They have extra-long handles, nicely molded grips, and the long end of the wrench is ball-ended for easily working at an angle. Add in the affordable price, and this set becomes a true winner.
Klein Tools T-Handle Ball End Hex Keys - JTH68MB - Best Hex Key Set Overall
Klein Tools has provided quality tools to the electrical and electronics manufacturing and repair industries for many years. Their tools are known for ruggedness and long service life. I have a set of Klein hex keys that have been in my tool box for over 25 years and are still just as useable as the day I bought them. This T handle set comes with ball-end keys for the long shank and straight hex end for the short shank that gives you max torque when you need to use the short end. It's a metric set, but they have a similar set available for those who need SAE. A metal stand where you can see the tool sizes (both on the stand and on the end of the handle) keeps your tools organized.
Wiha Ball-End T-Handle Hex Key Set - 54092 - Best Hex Key Set Overall
I was compelled to select this set for its superior quality. These ball-end hex keys have plastic handles with rubberized inserts, for superior gripping action. It's also the only set I have selected which is actually chrome plated, a very unusual yet quality touch for hex keys. The set includes 8 metric wrenches, in sizes ranging from 2mm up to 10mm. They also have a similar SAE sized set, with sizes ranging from 1/8" up to 3/8". This set comes with a sheet metal stand, allowing the tools to be displayed on your workbench, where they are easy to grab. This is a set that should last you for years.
Eklind Tool 60814 Power-T Ball Hex Key Set - Best Hex Key Set Overall
Another high quality set from a little known manufacturer. These SAE hex keys come with rubberized handles for good, comfortable grip. Being an 11 key set, it starts out at 0.050", which most sets don't have. The holder is probably the nicest one on the market, giving easy access not only to the 11 hex keys that come with the set, but has sufficient space for expanding your set. The padded handles provide an excellent grip and high torque for those tight screws.
Buyer's Guide
What is a Hex Key Set
A hex key set is a set of keys used to drive a bolt with a hexagonal socket on top. A hex key is also commonly called an Allen key or hex wrench. It fits the hex head bolt as a key fits in the lock so that you can screw or unscrew the bolt with ease. Hex key set has many keys to fit varying hex head bolt sizes.
What is a Hex Key Set used for?
It is a fundamental toolset to have at your disposal because you will encounter hex bolts on almost every other piece of engineering, from bikes to bridges. Typical uses include fixing furniture, automobiles, heavy machinery, electronics, and other machinery.
How to Pick the Best Hex Key Set?
The best hex key sets will take a lot of abuse year after year and still keep their edges sharp and shape intact. We have listed below the most essential points to consider in a hex set that will serve you for a long time.
The shape of the hex key wrench
Tool manufacturers offer hex keys in many different shapes to target varying customer needs and scenarios.
L-Shape
is the most basic and standard shape of hex wrenches in the market. They do not come with grip support, but usually, that does not reduce the tool’s effectiveness.
T-Shape
offers a handle for better maneuvering, often needed to unscrew very tight hex head bolts. It looks a bit fancier than L-shape, but it is not just a pretty face. You can spot it in professional settings such as motorsports because it offers better speed and efficiency.
P-Shape
is not actually shaped like a letter P; it is simply a variation of L-shape or T-shape. The only difference is that it has a handle with a hole on one side of the handle for better grip.
Storage of hex keys
Out of a hex key set, some hex keys will be used more than the others. Losing a key often means replacing the whole set to keep the consistency of grip and feel with the other hex wrenches. Here is a list of different types of storage mechanisms available in the market.
Folding hex keys
can be used just like a swiss knife by unfolding when needed and folding back again in the case itself. It is the easiest of all options to manage and carry around but not the best option for repetitive usage.
Case/holders
are very common these days for hex keys as they can be carried to the place of work. Hex key required at the moment can be lifted out of the holder easily and dropped back into its designated hole after use. Some sets come with color-coded hex keys for a quick draw.
Size ranges
Usually, hex keys sets come as a pack of 10 keys ranging from 2mm to 10mm. Another standard range is a pack of 30 keys ranging from 0.5mm to 10mm. Still, these are usually available in only L-shape. Your choice will depend on the range of bolt sizes you expect to encounter and targeted ease of use, among other factors listed in this guide.
Measurements
Most manufacturers are offering hex keys in both metric and imperial measurements. So you need to make sure at the time of ordering that the measurement system is rightly selected. The actual size is the same, and only the measurement markings are different on the keys.
Quality
Almost all of the hex wrench sets are made of steel, but there is a massive difference in steel quality. 8650 steel is the most commonly used in tools such as hex keys. Many best hex key sets are made out of chrome vanadium steel because it offers unmatched resistance against wear and tear, giving the hex key a long life. Chromium, when added in more quantities, can make the steel stainless. The manufacturers may not specify the type of steel, so you should choose stainless steel to be safe.
Tips for buying the best hex key set and its maintenance
1. Consider your intended use and storage space available before purchasing a hex key set. If you want to keep a set in the car, then a T-shaped hex key set with a holder is not ideal since it will occupy the scarce storage space in the car. A folding hex key set is a much better option for your vehicle.
2. Always clean the hex keys when you are done using them before putting them back in the case. Clean hex keys will protect themselves against the possible carbon build-up and risk of rusting over time. Also, your hex keys will look new and shiny for your subsequent use.
3. If the edges are rounded after extended use, you can try using the other end of the same key or sharpen it. You can also trim off the damaged end of the hex key using a power tool.
Best hex key sets FAQ.
Q: How to select the best Allen keys for bikes?
A: Since there is very little, if any, storage available on bicycles, you should always select the folding hex key set for your bike. You will primarily be using this set on one bicycle; make sure that the measurements on the hex key set match with the ones on your bike.
Q: How to select the best hex key set for electricians?
A: A set of 30 pieces should be selected by electricians to cover all hex head bolt size ranges. The second most crucial factor is portability, and a set that comes in a box rather than a case is an automatic choice. Some electricians recommend color-coded hex keys, but in our opinion, it is a personal choice.
Q: Why do some hex keys have a ball end?
A: The ball end makes the insertion easier. The ball enters the socket first and allows an angle to fit into the socket gradually compared to the flat end hex key, where you have to be more cautious. This little bit of extra guidance can increase the life of the hex keys even more since the exposure of edges during the fit-in process is reduced.
