The Best Hex Key Sets in 2024
Hex keys, also known as Allen wrenches, are indispensable tools for both professional mechanics and DIY enthusiasts. These simple, L-shaped tools are used to drive screws and bolts with hexagonal sockets, making them essential for professional work, DIY, working on machinery, and numerous other tasks. A high-quality hex key set can significantly enhance your efficiency and precision, saving you time and effort on various projects. In this guide, we will explore the best hex key sets available on the market in 2024, focusing on their features, advantages, and disadvantages.
You can view our full collection of Hex Key Set reviews here
What Makes a Good Hex Key Set?
Before diving into the reviews, it’s important to understand what makes a hex key set stand out. When selecting the best hex key set, consider the following factors:
Material Quality
High-quality hex keys are typically made from robust materials such as chrome vanadium steel or proprietary alloys. These materials ensure durability, high torque resistance, and a long lifespan, even under heavy use.
Ergonomics
Ergonomic design can make a significant difference in comfort and usability. Features such as rubberised grips, easy-to-hold handles, and ball-end designs can reduce hand strain and allow for more precise control.
Versatility
A versatile hex key set includes a range of sizes and types (e.g., metric and SAE, ball end, and standard). This versatility ensures that you have the right tool for any job, whether you’re working on a delicate electronic device or a heavy piece of machinery.
Storage Solutions
Compact and convenient storage solutions are essential for keeping your hex keys organised and easily accessible. Look for sets that come with durable cases or holders that prevent keys from getting lost or damaged.
- Bondhus BLX9M Long Ballpoint Metric 9-Piece 1.5-10mm (Best Budget) https://bondhus.com/pages/ball-end
- Wiha 66982 22 Piece ErgoStar Ball End (Best Features/Most Versatile) https://www.wihatools.com/products/ergostar-ball-end-hex-l-key-inch-metric-22pc-set
- Wera 950 PKL/7 SM (Best Value for Money) https://products.wera.de/en/l-keys_l-keys_for_hexagon_socket_screws_950_7_hex-plus_1.html
- PB Swiss 212Z.LH-12 RB (Best for Professionals) https://www.pbswisstools.com/en/tools/quality-hand-tools/hex-key-l-wrenches/product/pb-212z-lh-rb
Bondhus BLX9M Long Ballpoint Metric 9-Piece 1.5-10mm (BEST BUDGET HEX KEY SET)
Overview
The Bondhus BLX9M set is an excellent choice for those looking for a budget-friendly yet reliable hex key set. This set includes nine ballpoint hex keys ranging from 1.5mm to 10mm, providing a good range of sizes for various tasks. The ball end design allows for easier access to screws at an angle, which is particularly useful in tight spaces. Made from Protanium® High Torque Steel, these keys offer superior strength and resistance to wear. However, the plastic holder, while functional, is not as durable as the storage solutions found in higher-end sets, and the set lacks advanced features such as ergonomic grips or colour-coding.
Specifications
- Material: Protanium® High Torque Steel
- Sizes: 1.5mm to 10mm
- Type: Ball end
- Storage: Plastic holder
Wiha 66982 22 Piece ErgoStar Ball End (BEST FEATURES IN A HEX KEY SET)
Overview
The Wiha 66982 set stands out for its extensive range of features and ergonomic design. With 22 ball end hex keys, this set ensures you have the right tool for any job, whether it involves metric or SAE sizes. The high-quality chrome vanadium molybdenum steel construction ensures durability and resistance to corrosion. The ErgoStar holder is designed for ease of use, allowing the holder to rotate for easy key removal and replacement. However, this set is more expensive compared to basic sets, and the larger holder might not fit in smaller toolboxes, which could be inconvenient for those with limited storage space.
Specifications
- Material: Chrome vanadium molybdenum steel
- Sizes: Metric and SAE (0.05″ to 3/8″ and 1.27mm to 10mm)
- Type: Ball end
- Storage: ErgoStar holder
Wera 950 PKL/7 SM (BEST VALUE FOR MONEY HEX SET)
Overview
The Wera 950 PKL/7 SM set offers exceptional value with its combination of quality and affordability. This set includes seven hex keys that are perfect for general use, balancing cost and performance effectively. The high-quality steel with BlackLaser surface treatment enhances the durability and corrosion resistance of the hex keys. The compact clip holder provides convenient and space-saving storage, keeping the keys organised and easily accessible. However, the set only includes seven keys, which may not cover all needs for more specialised tasks, and it lacks advanced features like the ball end design found in more premium sets.
Specifications
- Material: High-quality steel with BlackLaser surface treatment
- Sizes: 1.5mm to 10mm
- Type: L-key
- Storage: Clip holder
PB Swiss 212Z.LH-12 RB (BEST HEX KEY SET FOR PROFESIONALS)
Overview
The PB Swiss 212Z.LH-12 RB set is designed for professionals who require top-notch performance and reliability. This set includes 12 hex keys, each crafted with precision and high-quality materials, making it ideal for demanding tasks. Made from a special alloy with high tensile strength, these keys are built to last. The rainbow colour coding makes it easy to identify the correct size quickly, saving time on the job.
Additionally, the set comes with a lifetime warranty, reflecting the manufacturer’s confidence in the durability and quality of the hex keys. However, this set is one of the more expensive options on the market, which might be a consideration for casual users, and it may be overkill for simple DIY tasks or occasional use.
The PB Swiss 212Z.LH-12 RB set is the top choice for professionals who demand the highest quality and reliability. With its high tensile strength, precise manufacturing, and lifetime warranty, this set is built to handle the toughest jobs.
Specifications
- Material: Special alloy with high tensile strength
- Sizes: 1.5mm to 10mm
- Type: L-key with rainbow colour coding
- Storage: Multicoloured plastic holder
THE BOTTOM LINE
Selecting the best hex key set depends on your specific needs and budget. Here’s a quick recap of our top picks:
- Bondhus BLX9M Long Ballpoint Metric 9-Piece: Best for budget-conscious buyers, offering durability and versatility at an affordable price.
- Wiha 66982 22 Piece ErgoStar Ball End: Best for those who prioritise features and ergonomic design, with a comprehensive and user-friendly set.
- Wera 950 PKL/7 SM: Best value for money, combining quality and affordability for general use.
- PB Swiss 212Z.LH-12 RB: Best for professionals, providing top-notch performance and reliability with a lifetime warranty.
By considering the material quality, ergonomic design, versatility, and storage solutions, you can find the perfect hex key set to meet your needs. Each of these sets offers unique advantages, ensuring that you have reliable tools for any job, from simple DIY projects to professional-grade tasks.