Best Torque Wrenches

Review & Comparison, Last Update December 30, 2023
Sometimes the tightness of bolts is crucial for a flawless operation of mechanisms. But how to measure the right torque? It's ...Read more
PROS
The tool provides a fairly wide torque range which makes it quite multifunctional. The unit has an easy-to-read laser marked scale.
CONS
Some users don't like a plastic handle.
OUR VERDICT
This torque wrench is the best pick for professionals who need to tighten bolts with the maximum accuracy.
detailed parameters
Type
Click
Drive
1/2''
Torque range
30 to 250 ft. lbs
Accuracy
CW ±3%, CCW ±5%
Length / weight
19'' / 3.7 lbs
Warranty
1 year
PROS
ACDelco torque wrench allows choosing one of the four available measurements for the maximum convenience.
CONS
The small LED display is difficult to read in daylight.
OUR VERDICT
It's a fantastic torque wrench for professional use as it allows the top accuracy tightening. This model is extremely popular with car mechanics.
detailed parameters
Type
Digital
Drive
3/8''
Torque range
2 to 37 ft. lbs
Accuracy
CW ±2%, CCW ±3%
Length / weight
~12.4'' / 1.41 lbs
Warranty
1 year (limited)
PROS
The manufacturer claims the new design of the handle makes the torque wrench far more convenient and durable.
CONS
The handle might show a bit of a backlash at heavy loads.
OUR VERDICT
Craftsman torque wrench mightn't be the best option for professionals but it's great for home use.
detailed parameters
Type
Click
Drive
1/2''
Torque range
20 to 150 ft. lbs
Accuracy
±4%
Length / weight
~21.4'' / 3.64 lbs
Warranty
1 year
PROS
The body of the tool is made of steel and has no plastic parts at all. It makes the torque wrench very durable and wear-resistant.
CONS
Might seem somewhat tough at high torque.
OUR VERDICT
This durable tool is a must-have for any car or truck driver as it will save your time and money in case of an accident. Great for professionals too!
detailed parameters
Type
Click
Drive
1/2''
Torque range
10 to 150 ft. lbs
Accuracy
±4%
Length / weight
18.25'' / 3.6 lbs
Warranty
Lifetime
PROS
It's a lightweight torque wrench so the long-term use of the tool becomes easy. Moreover, this wrench can easily be used in hard-to-reach places.
CONS
Some customers would like this tool to have a more convenient handle.
OUR VERDICT
Performance Tool is a fantastic choice for tightening the fasteners that don't require a high torque. Excellent for repairing bikes!
detailed parameters
Type
Beam
Drive
1/4''
Torque range
0 to 60 ft. lbs
Accuracy
±4%
Length / weight
~12.9'' / ~0.6 lb
Warranty
1 year

Multifunctional Tool

The torque wrenches produced by CDI are rightfully considered to be among the best tools of this kind and the 2503MFRPH model in the review is a great example of the company's leadership on the market. This wrench is very convenient and simple to use due to the number of features. First of all, the tool has an ergonomic grip so no matter if you have a small or large hand, you will certainly be able to tighten any bolt. Next, this torque wrench has a dual scale calibrated in two directions for the utmost precision. The measurements on the scale are laser marked and easily readable. Also, this tool provides a quick socket retention and removal thanks to the quick-release button on the rear side of the wrench head. As for threads, this torque wrench is compatible with clockwise and counter-clockwise threads; there's a special button for choosing the right mode. The torque range is rather wide - from 30 to 250 ft. lbs. We recommend you to use an extension bar set for tightening fasteners in the most hard-to-reach places.

Last updated price $157.67
Stock In stock
ASIN B000KL4H80

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight(4.3)

This wrench feels very, very solidly built. You can feel it in the weight and in the detents of the adjustment.

Details(5)

Comes packed in a molded case and includes a report on calibrations.

Advantage of LED Display

In our opinion, this ARM601-3 digital torque wrench is highly convenient in use thanks to the small LED display on its handle. This small feature makes the tool suitable for both professionals and amateurs as setting the right torque is effortless. There are several torque measurements used in the world and this wrench offers 4 measurement options: kg-cm, N-m, in-lb, ft-lb. Wherever you are, you can select the right measurement pushing small buttons arranged right near the LED display. Next, you can set the torque you need and stop worrying about overtightening; once it's reached, the tool will emit an audible confirmation signal. Of course, you shouldn't use the torque wrench wearing headphones. The handle of the tool is rubberized and provides a comfortable and firm grip. So, don't worry - the tool will not slip out of your hand! Also, the tool is fairly compact so it's used for tightening bolts even in most hard-to-reach places. Yet, if you need a torque wrench for professional use, don't forget to buy a useful adapter and reducer set.

Additional Info

User Manual     Manufacturer

Last updated price $89.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B004VYUQI2

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight(4.5)

Smooth action and easy controls. Perfect size for 3/8.

Details(4)

Easy to use, reliable, and the batteries last a long time.

Extra Durable Tool

Craftsman 9-3142S torque wrench is a tool that combines convenience, quality, durability, and a really affordable price. The wrench is made of plastic and rugged alloy steel for maximum reliability. Of course, this tool is quite simple in use as it has an easy-to-read scale and a twist ring for locking / unlocking. The torque settings are configured with the help of a rotary mechanism that looks like the one used on micrometers. As you can see, Craftsman engineers did their best to create a tool allowing you to quickly set the right torque. Also, we would light to draw your attention to a loud click sound when the pre-set torque is reached. Unlike some other torque wrenches, you won't miss the sound and, therefore, will always cope with any task properly. No doubt, this torque wrench will help you tighten all kinds of fasteners with the required precision and will serve you for many years! To be fully equipped for any kind of assembly or construction work, make sure to get a set of high-quality Craftsman pliers.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $109.90
Stock In stock
ASIN B008RIH7M6

What customers say about this product

Details(4)

Works like a charm. Nice visible torque settings that firmly click into place. Very good quality.

Quality Made of Steel

This torque wrench is manufactured by TEKTON and is considered to be one of the best appliances of in its class. Unlike many other manufacturers who use a lot of plastic in their tools, this model is made of steel only. The manufacturer is so sure about the quality of the tool that it provides a lifetime warranty! This wrench allows you to set the torque you need for a specific fastener, so you will never tighten a fastener too much. We would like to draw your attention to a grooved handle of this torque wrench as it provides a firm grip and doesn't slip in your hands. The reversible ratchet head of this torque wrench is compatible with clockwise and counter-clockwise threads. The head is made of chrome-vanadium steel, which means it won't break. As for the scale, it has a dual range and can be seen well even in low light conditions. Although the head of this torque wrench locks well on any thread, it's recommended to use a threadlocker. The locker will protect a thread from corrosion and prevent loosening of fasteners in case of heavy vibrations.

Last updated price $38.80
Stock In stock
ASIN B00C5ZL0RU

VIDEO

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight(4.5)

Perfect size for my motorcycle rebuilds. great price.

Details(4.6)

I haven't used a calibration machine or anything to test its exact accuracy but it seems accurate and is comparable to others that I have so overall a great value and good for the home mechanic.

Great Quality For a Good Price

Unlike most other torque wrenches, this model from the Performance Tool company belongs to so-called beam style wrenches. The tools of this type are considered to be less accurate but they have one undeniable advantage - the price! As for this very model, Performance Tool M195, its accuracy is quite decent, ±4%. Thus, this affordable beam style torque wrench is as performing as some more expensive tools! And the ball type handle allows tightening or loosening bolts or nuts effortlessly and accurately. The body of the wrench is made of genuine steel with a corrosion-resistant finish. Of course, this tool can tighten bolts and nuts in a clockwise or counter-clockwise direction. The scale has two measurements: either N-m or ft. lbs. It looks fairly unpretentious yet it's very readable even in low light. This beam style torque wrench will be utterly helpful if it comes to a repair of a rear differential or a car, a motorcycle or a bike. However, it's impossible to carry out a proper maintenance without nut wrenches, so we advise you to get a high-quality set of flare nut wrenches.

Additional Info

    Manufacturer

Last updated price $25.99
Stock In stock
ASIN B00SNICDJC

What customers say about this product

Size & Weight(4.4)

Decent little tool and will come in handy for many jobs.

Details(4)

This is a basic beam torque wrench that does what it should do. It is easy to use and read. It will keep its calibration and is lightweight.

What is a Torque Wrench

Today, lots of mechanisms require a certain torque for a proper and durable operation. Otherwise, there might be a thread failure, a mechanical damage, loose tightening, and so on. Many people think that they can somehow feel the necessary torque but it isn't so and it's much better to rely on a special tool called a torque wrench. These tools allow you to tighten any fastener with the accurate torque (very often it's specified in the manual to a mechanism you are assembling or disassembling). Torque wrenches are widespread in the assembly and maintenance of automobiles, bikes, engines, and so on.

If you need a simple tool for basic repair works, look through our review of electric screwdrivers.

Sources:

1. Steven Douglas How to Choose a Torque Wrench, eHow.

2. How to Use a Torque Wrench, The Family Handyman.

3. Torque wrench, Wikipedia. October 25, 2016.

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