10 Best Impact Socket Sets of 2024 – Reviews, Top Picks & Guide

If you are a mechanic or a hobby auto-enthusiast, an impact wrench is an important tool to have. Of course, the wrench without the sockets is like the car without the engine; one doesn’t work without the other.

Finding a good set is easier said than done, right? If you have looked around for a set recently, you know there are too many options to make a solid decision without second-guessing. Trying to find a case that has the sizes, lengths, and impact you need is a job onto itself. Who has that kind of time?

We do! After a lot of trial and error, we narrowed the field to 10 of the best impact socket sets you can buy. If you want to see the details on features like size, material, durability, and much more, check out our reviews below.

Not only will we share which set is our top recommendation and which one we think you should avoid, we will also give you some extra tips on locating a good alternative when you’re in a pinch.

A Quick Comparison of Our Favorites in 2024

Rating	Image	Product	Details
Best Overall		TEKTON 4817 Drive 6-Point Impact Socket Set	Metric and SAE sizes Durable high torque Strong chrome vanadium steel	CHECK PRICE
Best Value		EPAuto ST-015-2 Drive SAE Deep Impact Socket Set	Various SAE sizes Corrosion-resistant phosphate coated High torque capacity	CHECK PRICE
Premium Choice		Neiko 02330A Drive Metric Impact Socket Set	Top grade chrome vanadium steel Corrosion-resistant Laser-etched high contrast sizing	CHECK PRICE
		GEARWRENCH 84934N Drive 6 Pt. Impact Socket Set	Durable and strong Chrome alloy steel 3 parallel neckdown sockets	CHECK PRICE
		Stanley 97-126 Drive Metric Deep Impact Socket Set	Durable chrome steel alloy Meets ANSI specifications 5% less contact causing less wear on bolts	CHECK PRICE

The 10 Best Impact Socket Sets

1. TEKTON Drive 6-Point Impact Socket Set – Best Overall

Our first and favorite socket set is the TEKTON 4817 Drive 6-Point Impact Socket Set. This is a 14-piece set that works with a 1/2-inch drive. It comes with both metric sizes and the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) sizes, so you will always have the right socket for your needs. This case comes with high torque, 6-point pieces that grab the flat side of the fastener keeping you from stripping or damaging the metal.

This set includes sockets from 11 mm to 32 mm, and 3/8-inch to 1 1/4-inch. These tools also have a shallow depth allowing you to grab hold in tight spaces. What’s more, they are laser etched with the size, so it won’t rub off. This will keep you from ever having to search for a specific socket again. The TEKTON is also coated in corrosion-resistant black phosphate. Made of forged and heat-treated chrome vanadium steel, the set is durable and long-lasting.

These sockets meet or exceed the American National Standards Institute (ANSI) standards. You will also receive a durable carrying case that will keep all your pieces in their specific (and labeled) spot. Overall, this is our favorite option as the best impact socket set.

2. EPAuto Drive SAE Deep Impact Socket Set – Best Value

For a more affordable set, we recommend the EPAuto ST-015-2 Drive SAE Deep Impact Socket Set. Complete with 11-pieces, this 1/2-inch drive set also comes with a 24-inch breaker bar, plus they are compatible with extension bars, as well. This collection has SAE sizing between 3/8-inch to 1-inch. They are made of hardened, treated chrome vanadium steel alloy that is durable and strong.

The EPAuto sockets have 6-points allowing them to grasp the flat edges of the bolt to remove it without damage. These are also deep sockets with high torque capacity. They are corrosion-resistant with a coating of manganese phosphate. What’s more, they have a sandblasted finish.

You can also pick this set up in shallow sockets. They come with a convenient carry case that is durable. These sockets can loosen rusted, old, and corroded metal fasteners in tough locations. The only drawback is they don’t have laser etched sizing. Unfortunately, the sizing will eventually wear off. Other than that, this is the best impact socket set for the money.

3. Neiko Drive Metric Impact Socket Set – Premium Choice

If you are someone who uses their impact wrench regularly, you will need an above quality socket set that will last. If that is the case, our premium option is a good place to start. The Neiko 02330A Drive Metric Impact Socket Set is a 45-piece set with both shallow and deep sockets. Used with a 1/2-inch drive, these metric tools range from 9–32 mm. They are constructed of top grade chrome vanadium steel for durability and strength.

With this set, you will receive an extension bar, universal joint and adapter, and a carry case with labels. They are coated in black phosphate keeping them from corrosion and rust. You will also be able to loosen all fasteners with the 6-point system. What’s more, the sockets are laser etched in high contrast making the sizing permanent and visible in low light.

The Neiko comes with a 3-inch, 5-inch, and 10-inch extension bar using a 1/2-inch drive. The adapter works with either a 3/8-inch or 1/2-inch drive. The only drawback is they are more expensive than our previous two picks.

4. GEARWRENCH Drive 6 Pt. Impact Socket Set

The GEARWRENCH 84934N Drive 6 Pt. Impact Socket is a 19-piece set made of chrome molybdenum alloy steel. They are strong and durable and well able to remove the most stubborn bolts. You will also not need to worry about stripping with off corner technology and 6-point grip. Made for a 1/2-inch drive, the sockets have an additional attachment point for a traditional ratchet.

This set comes in the SAE sizing, although you can get the metric set, as well. The chamfered openings range from 3/8-inch to 1 1/2-inch. Sizes 3/8-inch, 7/16-inch, and 9/16-inch are also made with a parallel, neck-down design allowing you to reach restricted areas. Additionally, this set meets or exceeds the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) B107.2 specifications.

The GEARWRENCH comes with a carry case for easy storage. Unfortunately, it’s not as durable as we would like. What’s more, the black phosphate coating scratches off easily with moderate use. Be that as it may, the laser-etched sizing is resilient and will allow you to read them even in low light. Even with these two minor drawbacks, this is still a solid option for an impact socket set.

5. Stanley Drive Metric Deep Impact Socket Set

If you need a basic set for repairing your automobile or working around the house, the Stanley 97-126 Drive Metric Deep Impact Socket Set is a good option to consider. This is an 11-piece unit that has metric sizing on deep sockets. They also work with a 1/2-inch drive, and they have the typical 6-point design to better grip bolts and nuts without damaging or stripping them.

Stanley sockets are made from chrome vanadium steel alloy. They also have a black powder coat and an industrial finish. One drawback, however, is the etched sizing that is difficult to see especially when the light is low. Besides that, the sockets range in size from 10 mm to 24 mm. Keep in mind, though, there are a few standard sizes this set does not include like 15 mm, 18 mm, and 23 mm.

As mentioned, this socket set has a 6-point grip. There is also no contact on 5% of the outer fastener which will reduce the wear. This set is up to, or exceeds, ANSI specifications as well. Lastly, you will receive a carry case for the Stanley socket set. Be careful to close the clasps tightly, however, to prevent it from opening while in transit.

6. TEKTON Drive 6-Point Impact Socket Set

If you are in the market for a larger socket set, the TEKTON 4888 Drive 6-Point Socket Set may be the right option for you. This case comes with 38-pieces with both shallow and deep sockets along with both metric and SAE sizing. As is typical for this type of unit, the pieces are designed for a 1/2-inch drive, though you also get ones that work with a 3/8-inch drive as well. On top of that, they have a 6-point grip system to loosen bolts with as little damage as possible.

In the Tekton set, you will receive six shallow sockets the 3/8-inch drive, and 10 deep sockets for the 1/2-inch drive. For the metric pieces, you will find seven shallow sockets from 8–17 mm for a 3/8-inch drive, plus 11 shallow sockets from 10 mm to 24 mm for the 1/2-inch drive. You will also receive two 3-inch extension bars made for both the 1/2-inch and 3/8-inch drive, and one 1/2-drive impact reducer. Not to mention, the carry case.

Each piece in the set is drop forged, heat-treated chrome vanadium steel that has a black electroplate finish making them corrosion-resistant. You will also find beveled noses, and the sockets lock onto the drive tang. One set back with this option, however, is the sizing. Although it mentions being laser etched, the sizing is only stamped, so it wears off quickly. What’s more, the black finish scratches easily.

A couple things to keep in mind is this socket set doesn’t come with a universal joint adapter. Also, they are not as heavy-duty as some other options. Finally, you may find yourself having a hard time in tight spaces with the TEKTON set.

7. DEWALT Impact Socket Set

The DEWALT DWMT74739 Impact Socket Set comes with 23-pieces of heat-treated chrome 440 steel. This is a deep metric and SAE sized set that has a 6-point grip and 1/2-inch drive compatibility. They have direct torque technology, plus you will also receive a 72-tooth hand ratchet with your purchase. Unfortunately, the hand ratchet is not durable and is likely to break quickly. What’s more, these sockets are not for professional or heavy-duty jobs.

The DEWALT sockets are compatible with O-ring and retaining pins. They come with a lockable stacking case. Additionally, the sizing is laser etched for high visibility, though they are still difficult to see in low light. On the other hand, the black oxide coating does a credible job of keeping the tools corrosion-free, but it can scratch over time.

With this set, you will receive 10 sockets from 7/16-inch to 1-inch, and ten sockets from 13 mm to 24 mm. There is also a 5-inch extension bar, drill adapter, and quick release for a 1/2-inch drive. What you will not receive, however, is a 10 mm socket, which is a standard piece many people find necessary in a set. Be that as it may, this set meets or exceeds ANSI specifications.

8. TACKLIFE HIS1A Drive Impact Socket Set

Available as an 18-piece set, the TACKLIFE HIS1A Drive Impact Socket Set is ready to be used with the standard 1/2-inch drive. The deep sockets come in metric sizing, though you can purchase the SAE set as well. The 6-point grip ranges from 10 mm to 24 mm, and they are made of heat-treated chrome vanadium steel.

The TACKLIFE socket set is anti-oil and rust thanks to the black phosphate coating. They also have the laser-etched sizing, but after some use, the sizing is known to wear down and becomes difficult to read. Besides that, you get a customized carry case for easy storage, plus the sockets lock onto the tang.

As another perk, you will receive three extension bars with this toolset. They come in three inches, five inches, and 10 inches and are meant for a 1/2-inch drive. Unfortunately, these sockets have thinner walls, and they are liable to crack under heavy pressure. This set is not recommended for anything more strenuous than light work. You will also find the sockets are prone to stripping bolts and nuts even without a lot of torque. Finally, the carrying case for this set is not the most durable. Additionally, many customers have found the lack of bigger sizes is difficult.

9. CASOMAN Drive Impact Socket Set

Our second to last place pick is the CASOMAN CS004 Drive Impact Socket Set. This is a versatile set that comes with both deep and shallow sockets along with SAE and metric sizing. They can also be used with either a 1/2-inch drive or a 3/8-inch drive. The pieces are made of chrome vanadium alloy steel, plus they are heat-treated. They also meet ANSI specifications.

With this set, you will get 10 deep sockets for the 1/2-inch drive, and six shallow sockets for the 3/8-inch drive. There are also 11 shallow sockets ranging from 10–24 mm for the 1/2-inch drive, plus seven shallow sockets between 8–17 mm for the 3/8-inch drive. Additionally, you will find two 3-inch extension bars for both drives and a 1/2-inch drive 3/8-inch adapter.

While you have many socket sizes to choose from, there are some drawbacks to this set. For example, the CASOMAN sizing is done in black and is very difficult to see. The sockets are of poor quality as well. They are known to strip and damage your bolts, plus they often crack and break. Additionally, this set is prone to corrosion. The black electroplated finish is weak at best. What’s worse, many customers find the set is missing parts that are meant to be in the case. Lastly, the case with this set is not usable. It typically comes broken but is not designed to hold the weight of the tools.

10. Hiltex Drive Deep Impact Socket Set

Our final set is the Hiltex 0244 Drive Deep Impact Socket Set. This is an SAE 14-piece set that is used with the standard 1/2-inch drive. The sizes range from 3/8-inch to 1 1/4-inch, and they are made of high strength alloy steel. Unfortunately, the steel is not strong nor durable. The sockets will crack and break easily with little force. Not only that, but the electroplated finish rubs off on your hands, plus the black sizing is impossible to see.

The Hiltex sockets are extra deep, which allows you to access full-length fasteners easier. They also have a ball hole for secure locking. Keep in mind, however, the locking does not work. Speaking of which, this is a set designed for only the easiest of fasteners, otherwise it will strip and damage your pieces.

Overall, this is our least favorite option for an impact socket set. Many customers have found the sizing to be off by quite a bit on a lot of the sockets, plus the 6-point grip does not work as it should. Instead of grabbing the flat side, it uses the corners thus causing the bolts and nuts to round off. If you are looking for a quality set or even an “around the house” option, this is not the way we would recommend.

Buyer’s Guide – Choosing the Best Impact Socket Set

An impact wrench and socket set are handy tools to have around the house. Even if you do not need this tool for work-related projects, they can be valuable for changing tires, taking apart furniture, fixing machinery, and much more.

Shopping Tips

As you saw above, socket sets can come with several different features. Which one you choose is determined by what you will be using them for. In light of this, we wanted to point out a few things you should consider before making a decision.

In Conclusion

We hope you have enjoyed our reviews of the best impact socket sets, and it has helped find the right tools for your next project or job. To recap, our favorite pick is the TEKTON 4817 Drive 6-Point Impact Socket Set. This gives you the option of both sizes, and it packs a punch with its durability. If you need something more wallet-friendly, however, we suggest going with the EPAuto ST-015-2 Drive SAE Deep Impact Socket Set. This is an ideal setting for working around the house or fixing up old cars.

More buyer’s guides:

• Reviews of socket organizers
• Reviews of Makita Impact Drivers
• DeWalt Impact Drivers Reviewed