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16 Best Torque Wrenches for 2020
04
Dec
Dec
A torque wrench controls the amount of force that is used in tightening or loosening nuts or bolts.This is critical in motorcycles and cars because bolts that are too tight or too loose can cause damage that results in undesirable and dangerous consequences. In this article, discover the best torque wrench for you.
Things to consider before choosing a torque wrench
There is a wide variety of torque wrenches available on the market today, making the purchase of this tool more complicated than it used to be.
If you are thinking of buying one, you need to carefully think about your needs vis-à-vis your options.
Choosing a torque wrench is a decision that should take into consideration the following variables:
Preset or Adjustable
Do you need a wrench that is adjustable? Or do you want a tool that allows you to preset your desired torque and then let you know if it has been achieved?
Mechanical or Digital
Do you prefer working the time-tested way using mechanical tools? Or are you a believer in harnessing the powers of technology to make your work easier and more accurate?
Click, Break-Over, or Cam-Over
If you decide to buy a mechanical wrench, how would you want to know if the proper torque has been reached?
Would you want to hear a clicking sound, then feel the wrench swing? If you would, then get a click-type wrench, which is the most popular one.
Would you rather do away with the sound, and just have the wrench break over? Then get a break-over wrench.
If you choose this type, you will further need to decide if you want one that has an automatic resetting feature—so you can move on to the next job immediately—or one that you have to manually reset.
If you need to make sure that you never go beyond the set torque, a cam-over torque wrench is the one for you.
It is designed with a ball and lobe mechanism that sets the wrench free upon reaching the correct torque.
Even if you accidentally continue to apply force, you will not go over the preset torque. Because of this, this type is more accurate than a click-style wrench, and results are more consistent.
Branded or Generic
How much money are you willing to spend on a torque wrench? Will it be something that you will use every day, or just for occasional projects? How long would you want it to last?
Your answer to these questions will help determine whether you will be better served by a branded wrench, which is backed by a company’s solid reputation of quality and will guarantee years of service, or if a generic one will serve your purpose perfectly at an affordable cost.
Top Rated Torque Wrench
Considering the sheer number of available torque wrenches, brands, price points, and the equally wide ranges of user needs and preferences, it is challenging to choose one and call it the best.
After all, no single torque wrench can do everything, given the myriad purposes this tool is needed for. Moreover, here’s our bet of the best overall torque wrench.
1. Precision Instruments Drive Split Torque Wrench
This product closely fits the bill, considering factors such as quality, durability, cost, and user comfort.
The Precision Instruments torque wrench is accurate, dependable, and quite reasonable as evidenced by it being the tool of choice for many mechanics and dealerships who use it on a daily basis.
For those looking for a torque wrench that would deliver precision, performance, and quality, this one is the best option to take.
This torque wrench is more convenient to use and will save you time because it does away with the need to regularly recalibrate or reset the torque settings.
It also has an audible click feature to confirm that you have reached your desired torque setting.
This Precision wrench is made from stainless steel, assuring the owner of a long product lifetime. It has a torque range of 40 ft. lbs. to 250 ft. lbs.
Pros:
- checkComfortable, reliable, accurate, and easy to use
- checkGood design and durable construction
- checkEnables users to work on multiple bolts without needing to reset the torque settings
Cons:
- Some users report issues with flex angle
Our Rating
2. Neiko 1/4-Inch Drive Beam Style Torque Wrench
This budget-friendly wrench is a worthy addition to any toolbox. It is good for small engine repairs, such as on bikes, motorcycles, cars, and even boats.
It can be used with standard sockets and is great to use for rear-end pinions as well as small-torque bolts.
The Neiko Torque Wrench is also convenient as it can be used in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions.
It can also give both standard and metric readings, and it works within a range of 0-80 in/lbs in Newton meters.
Pros:
- checkInexpensive
- checkFeatures both standard and metric readings
- checkPrecise reading within +/- 4%
- checkCan be used clockwise and counter-clockwise
Cons:
- A few users had issues with the handle
Our Rating
3. Performance Tool M195 0-80 in/lb.
This Performance Tool wrench comes in two sizes. The smaller one is ¼ inch 0-80 in/lb which is used for a lot of screw sizes and pinions.
It is good for jobs requiring lighter torque. The larger size is ½ inch 0-150 in/lb. For the given price, this is a good buy.
Pros:
- checkEquipped with a ball type handle that helps ensure accuracy by force localization
- checkAllows direct measurement of torque values when tightening fasteners
Cons:
- May need modification before use to set pointer on zero
- More suited for occasional DIY repairs rather than for professional use
Our Rating
4. Precision Instruments 3/8″ Dr. “Split Beam” Torque w/Flex head
This Precision Instruments wrench is the perfect choice for those who want the ease of using a beam torque wrench and those who want the convenience of hearing an audible “click” to indicate that the desired torque has been reached.
It is mainly made of steel and is relatively lightweight. It can be used for jobs needing up to 100 ft/lbs. Its accuracy is 4% in a clockwise direction. It does not reverse.
Pros:
- checkConvenient; does not need turning down after use
- checkAdjustment of torque can be performed using only fingertip force
- checkLightweight
- checkComes with one-year warranty
Cons:
- Some users experienced calibration issues
Our Rating
5. TEKTON Drive Click Type of Torque Wrench
This wrench is compact and lightweight. It is good for reaching those tight corners. It has a finish that resists corrosion to make it durable. It also has a grip to prevent slippage.
It measures through foot-pounds and Newton meters, and for a budget tool, it has an accuracy of +/-4 percent. The Tekton Torque Wrench has a range between 10 ft. lbs. and 150 ft. lbs.
Pros:
- checkClick can be both be heard with sound and felt with vibration when specified torque is attained
- checkHas an easy-to-read scale
- checkComes with a reversible ratchet head
- checkAll-steel construction
- checkPre-calibrated
Cons:
- Adjustment may be difficult for some users
Our Rating
6. CDI 3/8-Inch Drive Metal Handle Click Type Wrench
For light to medium-duty projects, the CDI Torque Wrench is well worth considering because it has a range between 10 ft. lbs. and 100 ft. lbs.
It has the advantage of being equipped with a dual scale calibrated in both directions.
For clockwise rotation, it has an accuracy rating of +/-3 percent, which is better than the typical torque wrench.
For counter-clockwise rotation, its accuracy is at +/- 4 percent. Setting-up and reading of the torque are done on a laser-marked scale.
Pros:
- checkCan be used clockwise and counter-clockwise
- checkAccurate, fast, and hassle-free setting
- checkHas a good grip
Cons:
- Laser-marked scales may be difficult for some users to read
Our Rating
7. Industrial Brand CDI Torque 1/2-Inch Drive Adjustable Micrometer Torque Wrench
Solidly constructed, the Industrial Brand CDI Torque Wrench is an exemplar of the quality that its company is known for.
The casing is chrome-vanadium steel to resist rust. Its range is wider than the typical torque wrench, from 30 ft. lbs. to 250 ft. lbs.
The torque can be set in either direction, unlike other wrenches that don’t perform well on both turning directions.
To ensure accuracy, the 2503MFRPH has a lock-down ring to prevent any undesired changes in the settings.
It also has a quick-release socket button feature to facilitate socket retention and removal.
Pros:
- checkAccurate and easy to set
- checkFeatures a dual scale that is calibrated in both directions
- checkEquipped with a positive lock with spring loaded pull down lock ring
- checkComfortable grip
Cons:
- Case may be a bit short to store the wrench in lowest setting
Our Rating
8. CDI Drive Computorq 3 Electronic Torque Wrench, 3/8-Inch
The CDI Drive Computorq has a 15-degree flex ratcheting head. It can display torque values in real time, which a choice of any of the four torque units.
Its well-designed, non-slip rubber grip is ergonomically molded for maximum user comfort. This is great for jobs requiring 10-100 ft/lbs.
Pros:
- checkGood design
- checkGreat for home automotive and precision work
- checkLEDs are easy to read
- checkCan be used to fasten and loosen
Cons:
- May not be durable enough for heavy-duty industry use
- No vibration feature when torque is reached, so it cannot be used solely by feel
- Beep may not be heard in a noisy working environment
Our Rating
9. GearWrench 1/2″ Drive Electronic Torque Wrench
The GearWrench Torque Wrench can track torque measurement as you work. It features multiple alerts—handle vibration, buzzer sounding, and LED lighting— when you reach the target torque. This is good for jobs from 30-340 Nm.
Pros:
- checkAccuracy is good
- checkMultiple alerts make it difficult to over-torque
- checkMeasures in Newton-meters, foot-pounds, and inch-pounds
- checkEasy to setup and use
- checkAffordable
Cons:
- Does not measure in degrees
- Batteries are in parallel setup
- Batteries may result in issues if wrench is used for long periods
Our Rating
10. ACDelco 3/8-inch Digital Torque Wrench
The ACDelco Torque Wrench is designed for smaller and more precise jobs needing 2-37 ft/lbs of torque. It works on both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions. It has an LCD that displays torque measurements in kg-cm, N-m, in-lb, and ft-lb.
Pros:
- checkEasy setup
- checkGreat for small jobs needing precision
- checkWorks both clockwise and counter-clockwise
- checkDisplays torque in 4 values
- checkUses AAA batteries, which are easy to find
Cons:
- Settings may be too low for some users
Our Rating
11. ACDelco Tools Angle Electronic Torque Wrench
When precision is your main priority, choose the ACDelco Torque Wrench as it works in a clockwise direction with an accuracy of +/- 1.5% and in a counter-clockwise direction with a +/- 2.5% accuracy.
It has a backlit LCD that displays the torque, battery life, and measurement modes and is built-in with a flashing and buzzer alarm.
Pros:
- checkOperates in both clockwise and counter-clockwise directions with high accuracy
- checkLED flashes and vibrates when under torque or when overloaded
- checkMemory can hold 30 data sets
Cons:
- Instructions for use may not be clear
Our Rating
12. Powerbuilt 1/2-Inch Drive Digital Read Out Torque Wrench
Designed to be reliable, versatile, and meet tool standards, the Powerbuilt Torque Wrench works with a torque range of 30 ft/lbs to 150 ft/lbs.
It comes with a digital torque readout in ft/lbs, N-m, cm-kg2, and m-kg and a reversible ratchet.
Pros:
- checkGood design
- checkReliable and accurate
- checkGood weight and build for the price
Cons:
- Some users found issues with battery life
Our Rating
13. Tekton 10-150′.-Lb. Drive Click Type Torque Wrench
In terms of value, this Tekton Torque Wrench is among the best ones there is. It is effective and efficient, and it can be used on cars and trucks.
It can also be used for DIY home repairs that need precision. It features a high-contrast scale which facilitates reading and is made of steel for durability. This torque wrench is fairly light and good for jobs in cramped spaces.
Pros:
- checkFeatures both audible and tactile alerts when reaching desired torque
- checkScale has good readability
- checkEquipped with a ratchet head that works in both directions
- checkDurable
Cons:
- May need a bit of effort to adjust
Our Rating
14. Tekton 25-250 ft.-lb. Drive Click Type Torque Wrench
For users who are looking for the best torque wrench at this price range, this product is for you. It comes already calibrated to +/- 4% accuracy. It is 26 inches long, 3 inches wide, and 2.5 inches high.
Pros:
- checkFeatures a scale that is easy to read
- checkMeasures torque clockwise
- checkRatchet head reverses and can be used in both directions
- checkMade of steel
- checkComes already calibrated and ready to use
Cons:
- Some users report units with loose parts out of the box
Our Rating
15. EPAuto 3/8 in. Drive Click Type of Torque Wrench
The best for cars is the EPAuto Drive Click Type of Torque Wrench. It boasts a quality level consistent with all EPAuto wrenches with a durable ratchet head and non-slip knurled handle.
Set-up with this wrench is a breeze, owing to its scale which is high contrast and easy to see. Its accuracy is at +/-4 %.
Pros:
- checkAccurate
- checkEasy to set-up and use
- checkRobust ratchet head of hardened treated chrome vanadium steel alloy
Cons:
- Adjustment may be tricky for some users
Our Rating
16. Tacklife DIN Calibrated 1/4″ Torque Wrench, 20-200 in.-lb./2.26-22.6Nm Drive Click
When it comes to working on motorcycles, this Tacklife Torque Wrench is recommended. It works on a range between 20-200 in/lbs.
Users can depend on the Tacklife since each unit comes with a certification that it has passed international calibration standards.
It is durable and has an anti-rust finish and an easy-to-read scale. It also has the advantage of being reversible, so users can use it to loosen and tighten.
Pros:
- checkComes with a calibration certificate
- checkScale is easy to read under different lighting conditions
- checkReversible ratchet head enables both tightening and loosening
- checkComes with adapters to increase the range of use
Cons:
- There are few complaints of not clicking at low torque settings
Our Rating
Wrap-up
The surge in popularity of torque wrenches have made choosing the torque wrenches a much more complex decision than it used to be. If you find one that meets all your needs, then you have found the best torque wrench for you!
