After Testing, We Found The Best Allen Wrench Sets

Oct 14, 2024

By Bob Beacham, Mark Wolfe

Updated on Oct 2, 2024 12:33 PM EDT

Reviewed By Stephanie Cronk

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You might encounter Allen screws while assembling furniture, performing car maintenance, or replacing a hard drive, and you will need an Allen wrench set to work with them. These fasteners are easily recognized by the six-sided socket in the screw head, which gives a clue to the tool’s alternate name: “hex key.” Allen wrenches, or hex keys, come in a variety of forms, from handheld models to drill bits and impact drivers. In our search for the best Allen wrench sets, we tested four different models while installing and removing nearly 400 screws on a variety of home repair and DIY projects.

Our favorite product, the Wera Long Arm and Imperial Multicolor Hex Key Sets, had all the characteristics we wanted for daily use. They are built strong to resist twisting and corrosion. They feature the classic “L” shape, with an extra-long arm and ball end that can easily access hard-to-reach screws. Finally, they include size labels printed on colorful sleeves for quick identification.

In this guide, we’ll review the models we tested and showcase a few others for comparison. Then, we’ll explore the variety of features and functions you’ll want to consider before selecting the best Allen wrench set for your tool box.

Our top picks include a diverse range of these hand tools for the widest variety of projects. Whether you need a premium Allen wrench set for daily use, a compact folding tool for an emergency tool kit, or heavy-duty impact driver hex key bits, keep reading to find the best Allen wrench set for your needs.

Our Ratings: Design 5/5; Ergonomics 4/5; Durability 5/5; Storage 5/5; Value 4.7/5

Multipurpose L-shaped Allen wrenches remain popular because they allow users to exert high torque on the short arm or reach recessed screws with the long arm. This Wera multicolor long Allen wrench bundle includes sets of nine metric and nine SAE wrenches in their own color-coded organizers—green for metric and yellow for SAE.

Each of the 18 Allen wrenches features a color-coded sleeve marked with the size, providing rapid identification and increased hand comfort, particularly on cold days. Should the print wear off, the size is also laser engraved on the wrench itself.

The Hex-Plus design of these wrenches is a unique shape intended to provide better engagement and reduced wear. A multilayered black laser coating prevents rust and is highly resistant to chipping or abrasion. Two standout features that we especially liked were the extra-long arm and the ball end. The arm length was approximately one-third longer than regular Allen wrenches, allowing easier access to some hard-to-reach screws. Including ball ends on the long arms made it easier to engage screws, both head-on and at an angle.

Both ends of the wrenches seated perfectly into screws of all sizes. This set does require a greater investment than many competitor products, but the precision and durability are outstanding.

Get the Wera Allen wrench set at Amazon or KC Tool.

Our Ratings: Design 4/5; Ergonomics 4/5; Durability 4/5; Storage 5/5; Value 5/5

For only occasional use, buying “luxury” tools at premium prices is unnecessary. The compact size and modest price of this folding Allen wrench set from Stanley make it ideal for adding to a home or professional tool kit or stowing in an RV or trailer. The two-pack set includes nine SAE tools and eight metric tools, each marked for size and all complying with American National Standards Institute (ANSI) specifications. The tough composite body features rubber edge inserts for a secure grip. Should the wrenches start to work loose over time, users can simply tighten the sides to restore the proper action.

In our tests, the tool tips seated snugly into the screw heads and gripped well. One advantage of the Allen wrench multi-tool design was that it allowed us to quickly switch between different hex key sizes without juggling different tools. On the other hand, the fold-out keys do not lock in place, so there was always a sort of sloppy feeling while turning the screws. The design also limited the amount of torque we could apply. However, these were not actual issues when it came to tasks like bike maintenance and DIY furniture assembly but might create more of a challenge with automobile maintenance.

Get the Stanley Allen wrench set at Amazon, Ace Hardware, or The Home Depot.

Our Ratings: Design 4.5/5; Ergonomics 5/5; Durability 5/5; Storage 5/5; Value 4.7/5

Allen wrenches with T-grips make it easier to apply torque, and they’re just more comfortable to use. Bondhus crafts this Allen wrench set using a proprietary alloy steel called Protanium and then coats each tool in its proprietary ProGuard rust-resistant finish for extra resiliency. The welded T-shaped construction of each wrench is encased in a thick cushioned grip that is ergonomically designed to minimize the pressure on the user’s hands. This allows for all-day use with little chance of discomfort or cramping, which can be an issue with less user-friendly tools.

The set features 10 SAE Allen wrenches in a molded stand for bench use or wall mounting. After turning more than 200 screws with the Bondhus T-handle Allen wrench set, our hands were no worse for wear. The tips seated extremely well into the screw heads, and the weight of the handle provided a nice counterbalance.

The key consideration is that this design requires ample overhead clearance as well as radial clearance for the handle to turn. In some situations, the chunky T-handle simply would not fit. However, in the many applications where they did fit, these T-handles provided the most comfortable, surest grip among our test group. With its heavy-duty build quality, this set offers a terrific value.

Get the Bondhus Allen wrench set at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Global Industrial.

Our Ratings: Design 4.5/5; Ergonomics N/A; Durability 5/5; Storage 5/5; Value 4.7/5

The majority of Allen wrenches are made for hand use, but that means there’s a limit to the amount of torque that can be brought to bear. In heavy-duty industrial and engineering situations, that might not be enough. The solution is a set of Allen wrenches that will fit an impact wrench.

These wrenches from Sunex Tools feature a ½-inch drive found on high-performance models. The set includes 20 wrenches: 10 SAE tools and 10 metric tools. Each wrench is one solid, single piece of chrome-moly steel, ensuring it can withstand extreme demands while complying with ANSI standards. Size markings are laser etched onto each wrench so they can’t wear off. A heavy-duty storage case allows for convenient transport.

In our tests, we deployed the Sunex Tools socket drive Allen wrenches on a ½-inch ratchet and a cordless impact driver. The sockets were perfectly machined for a secure fit on the drive without requiring excessive force to install or remove them. The working ends seated perfectly into screw heads for precise turning but resisted lockup inside the sockets. The sizing is clearly intended for automotive, agricultural, and industrial applications. For smaller projects, impact drill bits will be preferable.

Get the Sunex Tools Allen wrench set at Amazon, Acme Tools, Summit Racing, or Global Industrial.

While the Allen wrenches we tested worked well for our needs, they do not fully showcase the range of options. The following models expand on flexibility and functionality.

Most Allen wrench sets incorporate either the classic L-shape design or a T-shaped handle. This Powerbuilt metric Allen wrench set boasts a sliding handle that can operate in either style, maximizing grip or torque as the application demands. A speed sleeve also allows the user to firmly grip the shaft while still freely spinning the handle for rapid fastening or unfastening. These Allen wrenches also offer a longer reach than conventional types, making this set a popular choice with automotive and motorcycle mechanics.

The wrenches are made of tough chrome vanadium steel, one of the optimal materials for these tools. The eight-piece metric set is housed in a smart, stable rack that holds them upright for quick identification and easy selection. Users can mount the rack on a workbench or a tool wall for easy access.

While we like the adaptable handle design of this set, we also consider it with a note of caution. Since the tips are constructed as separate pieces that are joined to the handles, it seems that the smaller sizes in particular might be subject to breakage from excessive torque. The other potential weakness would be caused by friction between the sliding components that may lead to rounding over and sloppy movement with usage.

Get the Powerbuilt Allen wrench set at Amazon, JEGS, or Powerbuilt Tools.

One of the more annoying aspects of working with Allen screws is the difficulty of seating the Allen wrench into the screw head. In narrow workspaces, you may need to reseat the wrench dozens of times per screw, but a ratcheting wrench eliminates the need to remove and reseat the wrench. This set from DeWalt includes a universal ratcheting T-handle with a ¼-inch quick-connect driver that allows users to easily install the required bit. The kit includes 24 metric and SAE hex bits, along with flathead and Phillips screwdriver bits.

We like the compact, multipurpose design of this kit. The single handle with interchangeable bits is a tremendous space saver that allows users to easily transport a well-equipped set of comfortable T-handle Allen wrenches in a tool bag. The quick-connect system ensures a secure connection and convenient bit replacement.

This product could be an ideal occasional-use set for automotive, bike repairs, RVing, and DIY projects. Unfortunately, the precise bit inventory is not listed online, but past customers report that the kit includes short and long 3mm, 4mm, 4.5mm, 5mm, 6mm, 8mm, ⅛-inch, 9/64-inch, 5/32-inch, 3/16-inch, ¼-inch, and 5/16-inch hex keys.

Get the DeWalt Allen wrench set at Amazon, Ace Hardware, The Home Depot, or Acme Tools.

Power tools were invented to save time and labor on bigger projects, and twisting Allen screws is no exception. This Allen wrench drill bit set from Toolant is engineered to withstand the shock generated by impact drivers and drills, so you can turn more screws in less time than you could by hand. The 20-piece Toolant Allen wrench drill bit set includes 10 SAE and 10 metric bits, each measuring 2 inches long.

Whether you work in a climate-controlled workshop or a backyard tool shed, these bits are designed for years of dependable use. They are constructed of S2 alloy steel with a hardened core to increase bit strength. The tips are computer numerical control (CNC) machined and magnetized to assist with screw pickup, and the bits are treated with a rustproof manganese phosphate coating for protection in humid environments.

This set presents an excellent value. Plus, S2 steel is a popular choice for impact bits because of its shock resistance, hardness rating, and workability. It’s a step above regular chrome molybdenum alloy steel. We like the magnetized tip because it will help the bits stay seated in screw heads, which is sometimes a challenge. Each bit is labeled with its size, as are the storage slots in the wrench organizer boxes.

Get the Toolant Allen wrench set at Amazon.

Hex socket screws and Allen wrenches were first introduced in 1909. This fastening system enables higher torque and clamping force compared to other screws of similar size, which means it takes fewer socket head screws to achieve similar holding power to other screw types.

Since torque is the driving factor behind the use of socket head screws, we considered torque (our ability to apply it) among the top factors in our tests. We used each Allen wrench set to install and remove 200 screws of various sizes. We then recorded our observations with regard to the ability to apply torque, hand fatigue after repeated use, maneuverability in tight spaces, how well the tip seated into the screw head, and ease of recognizing and retrieving the right size tool from the set. We scored each set on a rubric, recorded any other observations, and awarded titles according to performance.

Whether you’re an amateur or a professional, an Allen wrench set is likely to be a necessity sooner or later. In fact, almost every home tool kit for DIY incorporates one. The following features are crucial to consider when choosing the best Allen wrench set for your needs.

Most wrenches are designed to clamp around the outside of a hexagonal nut or bolt. By contrast, an Allen wrench fits inside a hexagonal recess. This type of wrench is primarily used for machine screws and bolts (rather than in wood) that fit into a threaded (blind) hole or often through a plate or clamp into a captive nut.

Because the Allen wrench fits inside the fixing rather than outside, it is especially useful in confined spaces where a standard wrench, or even a socket, would not be able to reach. Allen head fixings also allow for the application of greater torque than is possible with either slotted or Phillips screw heads. This makes an Allen wrench particularly effective with large fixings that require a lot of force to secure.

The base material for the majority of Allen wrenches is carbon steel, which has the inherent strength required to handle the twisting pressure (torque) involved in fastening or unfastening a range of Allen screws and bolts. Manufacturers can also add nickel or black oxide coatings to resist rust.

Some Allen wrenches are made of chrome vanadium or chrome molybdenum (often called chrome-moly) steels. Chrome vanadium steel is very hard and has a degree of ductility. It will give a little without fracturing, and the chrome element prevents rust. Chrome molybdenum has similar properties and higher tensile strength (resistance to shearing or deformation), which makes it popular in heavy-duty applications.

The basic form of an Allen wrench is either a hexagonal bar or a round bar that is shaped like a hexagon on the end. It is then bent into the common L-shape or has a T-handle attached. On budget tools, the hexagonal end is left flat.

There’s nothing wrong with this style, but locating the wrench in the recess on the fixing can be tricky. Additionally, frequent use can cause wear to either the wrench end or the fastener, exacerbating the situation. Better-quality Allen wrenches feature a small chamfer. This addition might not look like much, but it makes a considerable difference in quickly locating the wrench.

A ball-end Allen wrench takes this benefit a step further. It not only aids location but also means you can apply a degree of pressure at an angle, which is beneficial when screws or nuts are awkward to access.

Standard Allen wrenches are usually between 1 and 4 inches in length, so you can comfortably hold them in your hand, normally applying pressure with two or three fingers. Folding Allen wrenches are often shorter to be as compact as possible. Though you might lose some leverage, the thick body offers a firm hold.

T-handled models are typically much longer. Twisting these wrenches can apply tremendous torque, but it may not be possible to squeeze them into tight spaces. Depending on the application, you might want to purchase more than one set of Allen wrenches. Fortunately, most sets are affordable.

If you have several wrench sets in your arsenal, it’s often helpful to purchase a separate wrench organizer to give your tool box some structure. Luckily, most Allen wrench sets include some form of an organizer.

Low-cost Allen wrenches are often attached much like a set of keys on a key ring. Unfortunately, this isn’t as practical as it seems, and the connecting wires can easily become stretched or detached. Plastic clip-on racks are the most popular option, often marked with sizes for easy identification. T-handled Allen wrenches frequently include their own stand, which is great for bench use but too bulky for most tool boxes.

Two measuring systems are in common use today: SAE is the inch system, also known as imperial, while the metric system is usually found on imported goods from Europe and Asia.

While equivalents are often provided, small differences in actual fastener size mean SAE and metric Allen wrenches are not interchangeable. Trying to force them will result in damage. Plan to either purchase the correct system for most of your needs or invest in an Allen wrench set that includes both SAE and metric wrenches.

The number of Allen wrenches in a set varies considerably. Sets seldom contain fewer than eight wrenches, and these usually cover common sizes. However, sets that offer both SAE and metric sizes can include 20 or more wrenches.

This guide is designed to provide a thorough understanding of the key features to consider when choosing the best Allen wrench set for a particular range of tasks. While comprehensive in nature, you may still have a few questions. Check out some of the most frequently asked questions about Allen wrenches below.

Yes. Strictly speaking, the Allen name is owned by the Apex Tools Group, but, in general, the terms “hex key,” “Allen key,” “hex wrench,” and “Allen wrench” all describe the same type of tool.

The hole in the middle of an Allen wrench fits tamper-resistant hex screws that are usually designed to prevent unauthorized access to sensitive parts of equipment. You can still use this tool as an ordinary Allen wrench.

All Allen wrenches are used the same way, by inserting the hexagonal end of the bar into the relevant screw or bolt, then turning it to tighten or loosen. T-handled models generally allow the application of greater force and/or have greater reach. Ball-ended Allen wrenches can be used at an angle if access is difficult.

Chrome vanadium alloy (Cr-V) steel is one of the best materials for Allen wrenches because it offers a combination of durability and affordability. For impact bits and drill bits, chrome molybdenum alloy (Cr-Mo) steel—while more expensive than Cr-V—has the added toughness and shock resistance to complement power tools.

Common Allen wrench applications include bike repair, car maintenance, and furniture assembly. Within those categories, the most used Allen wrench sizes are SAE 5/32, 3/16, and ¼.

Allen wrenches only require minimal maintenance. Keep them clean; store them in a dry location, and re-flatten the sides of the tips with a file if they become rounded. In humid environments, wiping tools with an oily rag after use will help prevent rust.

Mark Wolfe is a writer and product tester with a background in the green industry. He’s also an avid DIYer who lives in an older home. When he isn’t writing, he spends his time upgrading, repairing, and replacing anything and everything in his home, yard, and garden. He tests and writes reviews about hand tools, lawn care and home repair products, and outdoor living goods.

Additional research provided by Bob Beacham.

Contributing Writer

Bob Beacham is an engineer by trade and has spent 35 years working on everything from auto parts to oil rigs. He is also an avid DIY enthusiast. Bob started writing for the Bob Vila team in 2020 and covers tools, outdoor equipment, and home improvement projects.

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