Are you tired of searching for each tool as you need it? Are your tools never where they should be? Do you have to waste time after a long working day clearing away your tools? A socket organizer could be perfect for you!
Socket organizers can help organize tools so that you can keep your workspace clear and easily find your tools without having to waste time searching.
Before we take a look at the best socket organizer 2022 that could help to solve all of your tool-related problems, let’s take a look at the different types of sockets that are made so you can understand the differences between the great products that have made our list.
Types Of Socket Organizers
Socket organizers do not come with any tools included, they are usually bought by people who have a collection of sockets but don’t have an effective way of organizing them, which means they lose sockets often and waste time searching for them.
There are three main types of socket organizers, this is a rail, tray, or wall-mounted socket organizer. Below we explain the differences between each type.
Rail Socket Organizer
Socket rail organizers use bars as the base for storing sockets. These bars are usually made out of either heavy-duty plastic, aluminum, or steel. This type of organizer ranges in size from approximately 18-inches to a foot in length.
The sockets are held in place by clips that attach to grooves in the bar. Their sleek design lets you see what you’re looking for easily, and they hold sockets securely.
This organizer’s compact size means it can easily be added to a toolbox, drawer, workbench, or be brought on the road.
The one downside to socket rail organizers is that they often don’t include labels or other information about sockets, making it harder to identify the right size.
Tray Socket Organizer
Socket trays are quite popular as they are made of durable, shock and impact-resistant plastic and they feature both metric markings, and they are color-coded for the Society of Automotive Engineers which makes them very easy to use.
These organizers are designed so that each slot is specifically sized for a specific type of socket.
There is a strong magnet installed in the base to keep the sockets in place. These magnets are also strong enough to keep this organizer in place on a metal surface.
There are two other types of socket tray organizer designs, the first uses a labeled post to hold the sockets and the other is similar to the clip design used in a socket tray organizer.
These design variations are not as popular as the design that features powerful magnets.
Wall-Mounted Socket Organizer
Wall-mounted organizers let you store your sockets vertically, a great option for those who are looking to save space.
A wall-mounted organizer can be either rail style or tray style and comes in many different colors and sizes.
You can mount these organizers to your tool rack or even place them inside a tool drawer.
Some organizers come with mounting kits that allow you to hang over your tool rack. These organizers also come in many different colors.
Tray organizers feature a magnet that allows them to be mounted to a metal surface, such as a metal wall or tool cabinet.
The Best Socket Organizer For Your Choice
Best Budget: Hansen Global 92000 Socket Organizer
This tray socket organizer is a set of 6 different pieces and is perfect for anyone looking for a low price but quality socket organizer.
In total this piece measures 20.5-inches long, 8-inches wide, and 4.25-inches high and weighs just 2 pounds.
It is easy to handle your stored sockets as the thick post bases help to hold the sockets in place while the edge tangs enable easy handling without knocking over a number of sockets.
The material that this piece is constructed from, which is ABS Plastic, is oil and gas resistant making it perfect for a busy workshop setting. It is also very durable.
The sizes of each socket are labeled on each post making it easy to put back and find what you are looking for.
The labels are still visible when the socket is placed on the post. The set holds a total of 172 sockets and fits most U.S.-made and foreign-made sockets.
Pros
- Includes six separate pieces.
- Trays are marked with sizes.
- The thick base and ABS plastic material make it very durable.
- Amazing, budget price.
Cons
- Some sizes not included.
You can buy this socket organizer on Amazon by clicking here or directly from the manufacturer, Hansen Global, by clicking here.
Best Splurge: Olsa Tools Magnetic Socket Organizer
Olsa Tools are known as the best in the game when it comes to socket organizers but their products do come at a price.
This six-piece set is made up of their top 6 best-selling socket organizers that have been built to a professional standard.
The set is made up of the ½ inch, ⅜ inch, and ¼ inch socket organizers and holds 143 sockets in total when each often 6 pieces is in use.
You can choose from 10 different styles that vary in color, markings, and features.
The holders feature a magnetic base and keep sockets securely in place. You can mount these organizers onto the side of a toolbox or store them in your drawers.
The magnets are so powerful in the base of each piece that they can stay connected to metal objects, flat or upside down.
Metric sockets and regular sockets fit perfectly however please note that impact sockets do not fit.
Olsa Tools have a deep commitment to their customers and so these products are backed by a lifetime warranty, protecting you and your money.
If you are looking for a product that will last and you are happy to spend some extra cash we highly recommend this product.
Pros
- Well priced 6 piece multipack.
- Available in 10 different designs.
- Covered by a lifetime warranty.
- Rubberized base to avoid scratching surfaces when mounted.
- Each piece is labeled with sizes for ease of use.
Cons
- Doesn’t fit impact sockets.
You can buy this socket organizer on Amazon by clicking here or choose from a range of sizes and bundles directly from the manufacturer, Olsa, by clicking here.
Best Tray Socket Organizer: ARES 70233 Magnetic Socket Organizer
This magnetic tray socket organizer is loved by DIYers all around the world and it’s easy to see why. With its slick black design, it could blend into any workspace and takes up very little space.
This organizer can hold 26 metric sockets and measures 9.8-inches long, 2.5-inches wide, and 2.4-inches high.
The magnetic base in the tray is strong enough to hold the sockets and attach the organizer to metal surfaces. The rubberized bottom prevents any damage to surfaces.
ARES has a reputation for crafting reputable products and this tray socket organizer is no different.
All products are backed by ARES Performance Assurance warranty and customer service is on hand to deal with any issues, replacement parts needed, or issuing a refund.
Pros
- Made from durable ABS plastic.
- Features a rubberized bottom to absorb shock.
- Magnetic and can be stuck onto a metal toolbox, cabinet, or metal workbench.
- Covered under ARES Performance Assurance.
Cons
- Only fits metric sockets.
You can buy this socket organizer on Amazon by clicking here.
Best Rail Socket Organizer: Tekton 91805 Socket Holder Organizer
This multipack bundle is made up of three of the most popular Tekton socket organizers, which are their rail socket holders. The pack features the ¼ inch, ⅜ inch, and ½ inch sizes.
These rail socket organizers feature the Tekton patented Twist-O-Lock design which makes these products secure and easy to use.
You can keep these organizers in a toolbox, mount them to a wall, workbench, or keep them in a tool chest.
This set, in total, measures 14 inches long, 19 inches wide, and 1.5 inches tall and weighs 11.8 punches.
This Tekton socket organizer is covered over the Tekton Frustration-Free certificate, meaning customer support will be able to assist with any issues you may have with this product, and all Tekton products are covered under warranty. It could be one of the best tool box socket organizers on the market.
Pros
- Great value bundle.
- Can also buy products separately.
- Unique Twist-O-Lock design to keep sockets in place.
- Comes with labels.
- Side mount holders included.
Cons
- A limited number of ¼-inch socket holders in the multipack.
You can buy this socket organizer on Amazon by clicking here or you can buy the individual rails directly from the manufacturer, Tekton, by clicking here.
Best Wall-Mounted Socket Organizer: Precision Defined Aluminum Tool Socket Organizer
If you are looking for a great socket organizer that can help save you space this Precision Defined product is perfect for you.
This is a multipack of the three most popular sizes, being the heavy-duty ¼ inch, ⅜ inch, and ½ inch socket organizers.
This product has been designed for a busy laborer who needs a secure product that also doesn’t take too long to remove sockets from.
The spring-loaded ball bearings used in the construction of this piece firmly secure each socket, which are also customizable to store your collection of sockets securely for you.
You can choose from three colors, being red, black, or blue, and hang each organizer on a peg board organizer or else on a hook on the wall.
The organizers are ironclad, meaning they were built to last.
Pros
- Available in three different colors.
- Can be purchased as a multipack or as separate items.
- Ideal for anyone trying to save space.
- Customizable.
- Quick lock and release for ease of use.
Cons
- Best suited to mounting on a pegboard rather than on a wall.
You can buy this socket organizer on Amazon by clicking here.
Among the above recommendations, what is the best socket organizer for you?
Buyers Guide
There are a number of things that you should consider when you are buying a socket organizer to make sure you find one that is fit for the purpose you intend to use it. We list and explain these considerations below.
Size
Size matters! If you plan on using your organizer every day, then make sure that it is big enough to hold everything that you need.
If you’re not sure whether it’s big enough, then it is worthwhile counting your sockets to ensure you find an organizer with enough slots or spaces.
Storage Space
If you have limited storage space, then you might want to opt for a small organizer that can easily fit into a drawer. However, if you have plenty of room, then you could go with a bigger model that holds more tools.
Make sure that you buy a unit that has enough storage space to hold all of your sockets.
It is pointless to buy a small socket organizer to save space as you will be creating more workspace by taking all of your sockets and placing them in an organizer.
Accessibility
Consider accessibility when buying a socket organizer. Is there space to leave it on your workbench? Or if you are hanging it, is it possible to get to it without having to over-stretch or can you reach the bottom shelf without bending over? Can you reach the back corner?
All of these considerations will help your socket organizer work for you and not lead to any aches or pains as a result of overstretching or bending over daily, which can strain your lower back.
Material
Look for something that is sturdy. Metal organizers tend to last longer than plastic ones. However, plastic organizers may be easier to clean and maintain.
When considering the material also consider where it will be hung or placed, will the surface behind it or below it be strong enough to support it?
Durability
Look for a product that won’t break down after a few years of regular use. The best products are built to withstand heavy-duty tasks.
Make sure that you get a quality product that will hold up well under regular use. It is also worth considering how easy it is to assemble and disassemble. This will make storing and transporting your tools easier.
Safety
Safety is important. Always make sure that any item you purchase is safe to use. Check the manufacturer’s instructions before you start using your new toolholder.
Budget
There is a huge amount of choice on the market and so it is possible to find a perfect socket organizer that is the right size, and type, for your needs while also sticking to a budget.
Overspending will only lead to stress and so it is worthwhile sticking to your budget always.
Expensive prices don’t always signify that a product is the best, some budget pieces are just as good, as seen from our list above.
Bonus Feature – Labeling
Labels are very helpful when it comes to storing your tools. Some organizers come with labeling systems while others have removable labels.
Either way, you should look for a system that makes it easy to find specific items.
Whether you’re looking for a simple tool organizer or a full-blown workshop, there is a socket organizer for everyone.
With so many different styles available including pegboard, wall-mounted, and portable it is important to take time to consider what type of organization will work best for you and your lifestyle.
If you haven’t found the perfect socket organizer on our list don’t forget to use our useful buyer’s guide to help you find the perfect socket organizer for you.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is A Socket Organizer?
Socket organizers are designed to store all of your sockets for your hand tools and power tools in one place.
They are usually made from plastic and come in various sizes. Most models have a lid that covers the entire unit.
Others have individual compartments where each socket can be stored separately.
Socket organizers are great because they allow you to quickly access any of your tools without having to dig through drawers or boxes.
They are also useful for keeping track of your sockets. Many models feature labels that identify each of the differently sized sockets.
This allows you to know exactly where to find your tools, especially when you are in a rush.
What Are The Advantages Of Having A Socket Organizer?
Socket organizers are important because they help us organize our workspaces.
We should use these organizers to make sure we don’t waste any time looking for things we already know we have. You’ll never lose anything again!
By not losing any tools you will save money on replacing lost items. Socket organizers also clear up space in our workshops, making room for other things.
Having a clear space to work from will create a safer and more enjoyable work environment.