| Best Overall |
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Olsa Tools 3 Pcs Aluminum Socket Organizer | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
This socket organizer offers great durability, plus all the storage you need. |
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| Best Value |
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Gearwrench 3 Pc. Metric Socket Storage Tray Set | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
An affordable socket organizer set that keeps your metric sockets neat without requiring a significant investment. |
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| Best Premium |
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Hansen Global SAE & Metric Socket Organizer Trays | CHECK LATEST PRICE |
Comprehensive with plenty of storage space, this socket organizer is made to make working with sockets easy and color-coded. |
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- 1. Olsa Tools 3 Pcs Aluminum Socket Organizer
- 2. Gearwrench 3 Pc. Metric Socket Storage Tray Set
- 3. Hansen Global SAE & Metric Socket Organizer Trays
- 4. Ernst Manufacturing Socket Boss 3-Rail Multi-Drive Socket Organizer
- 5. Neiko Tooluxe 03966L Universal Socket Organizer
- 6. Grip 6 pc Socket Organizer Tray Set
Everyone hates wasting time digging through their toolbox to find the right sockets. It’s a time-suck and a pain whenever you need to find the always-lost 10mm socket. There’s a better way to store and organize your array of sockets in every size, though, and it’s a handy socket organizer. Designed to corral your sockets into labeled, organized trays (and even color-coding for better visibility), socket organizers can give your tool kit a neater, cleaner organization system. Available in different styles to suit various SAE and metric socket sizes, there’s a socket organizer out there that’ll save you time and effort. We’ve rounded up some of the best socket organizers you can buy right here.
Best Socket Organizer Reviews & Recommendations
Number one on our list of the best socket organizers is the Olsa Tools 3 Pcs Aluminum Sockets Organizer. This handy set can hold a total of 54 sockets in 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch drive sizes, and the rails are available in six snazzy colors, so they’ll brighten up even the most boring of toolboxes.
Made from high-grade aluminum, these socket organizers are designed to be durable, with no flex even when fully loaded with sockets. Spring-loaded clips hold the sockets firmly in place, and each organizer bar has a rubber cap on the end to contain the clips. While it’s advertised that you could mount this vertically, those caps may not be strong enough. Still, it’s a solid set.
- Made from high-grade aluminum with plastic clips
- Holds 54 sockets
- Holds three drive sizes (1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch)
- Available in six colors
Strong and robust rails, no flex
Spring-loaded clips hold sockets securely
Direction of clips is reversible, so you can organize your sockets the way you like them
Can be mounted horizontally or vertically
Rubber caps on end of organizers may be insufficient to keep clips in place when hung vertically (modification may be required).
If you’re on a budget, the Gearwrench 3 Pc. Metric Socket Storage Tray Set is a great socket organizer as it was designed with both value and easy storage in mind. This set includes three storage trays that can hold three different socket sizes on their pins, and was modeled after professional mechanics’ socket organizers with color-coded socket holding tabs so you can find what you need ASAP.
Space-saving with a slim profile, the organizer set keeps sockets in place without taking up a ton of room. And it’ll work with both standard and deep sockets and is designed to be break-resistant. However, keep in mind that not all sockets will fit the pins of this organizer set, i.e. your SAE sockets, which you’ll have to purchase separately.
- Holds three socket sizes (1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch)
- Includes quick ID markings on each tab
- Bend-tested to resist breakage
- Fits both standard and deep sockets
Makes identifying socket sizes quick and easy
Able to resist flexing and breaking
Even the pins themselves are resistant to breaking
May not fit all sockets, as the pins can be problematic for some
Doesn’t suit larger impact sockets
If you’re looking for a system to hold your complete socket set, these Hansen Global SAE & Metric Socket Storage Trays will get everything organized. A total of six trays are designed to hold all your SAE and metric sockets of 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch drive sizes, and they come in a combination of red and grey – red for SAE and grey for metric – so you can tell which are which at a mere glance.
To help you identify your sockets even more quickly, the organizers come with all common socket sizes marked on the plastic. These Hansen socket trays are made from a durable ABS plastic, though the smaller socket prongs can be somewhat brittle and prone to breaking. Treat them properly, though, and you won’t have an issue.
- Made from durable ABS plastic
- Holds ¼-inch, ⅜-inch, and ½-inch SAE and metric
- Available in a combination of red and grey
Socket sizes marked for easy identification
Holds both SAE and metric sockets
Plastic prongs may be prone to breaking in the smaller sizes
Cheaper sockets with smaller diameter holes may not fit
Another heavy-duty, plastic socket tray we can get behind is this Ernst Manufacturing Socket Boss 3-Rail Multi-Drive Socket Organizer. This one has 3 rails with enough twist-lock clips to hold 45 sockets (15 x 1/4-inch, 15 x 3/8-inch, and 15 x 1/2-inch drive sockets). That said, the real highlight is the ability to customize it to suit your socket collection as you can detach rails to transport them separately, as well as mix and match the socket clips provided to build your perfect load-out, and purchase more if required.
Even better, the socket sizes are not marked on the trays but provided on stickers, so you can customize and leave off any sizes that you’re missing at the moment. And the Ernst socket organizer is available in 3 colors (red, blue, and high-visibility yellow) with the manufacturer recommending red for SAE and blue for metric and high-vis for… your nighttime sockets? Just kidding, the high-visibility is for those who work in darkened garages or bring them with them when they’re underneath a vehicle.
- Made from heavy-duty plastic
- Holds 45 sockets
- Space for 15 x 1/4-inch, 15 x 3/8-inch and 15 x 1/2-inch drive sockets
- Available in three colors
Fully customizable – remove rails, add and remove clips, swap out drive sizes etc.
Twist-lock clips keep sockets secure for transport, even when upside-down
Easy-to-read I.D. stickers for socket size identification
May not be suitable for use with impact sockets
For those looking to transport or hang their sockets vertically, the Tooluxe 03966L Universal Socket Holder by Neiko may be right for you. The set comes complete with a metal carry handle that’s easy to both lug around or mount to a wall or toolbox. And there’s enough room to store an impressive 80 sockets, with space for 20 x 1/4-inch, 30 x 3/8-inch, and 30 x 1/2-inch drive sockets, in either metric or SAE sizes.
The tray is made from durable powder-coated steel, whilst the sockets are held in place with nickel-plated steel clips. While the tray’s durability isn’t in question, we’re concerned the clips weren’t powder-coated as well to increase the longevity of their lives, especially those of the 1/4-inch drive size.
- Nickel-plated steel clips and rails on a metal powder-coated tray
- Holds 80 sockets
- Space for 20 x 1/4-inch, 30 x 3/8-inch and 30 x 1/2-inch drive sockets
Handle makes transport and vertical mounting easy
Offers plenty of storage space with room for 80 sockets
Durable metal tray is protected against corrosion
Difficult to slide clips along rails
Some clips, particularly the 1/4-inch, can be flimsy
Another great option for anyone looking for a complete socket storage solution is this Grip 6 pc Socket Organizer Tray Set. Made from heavy-duty molded plastic, the set comes with three black and three green trays, with the green intended for SAE sockets, and the black for metric. There’s a tray each for 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch, and 1/2-inch drives, and they’re suitable for both shallow and deep sockets.
As with some others on this list, all the common socket sizes are marked on the trays in white, to help you identify your sockets easily. That, however, does remove the option for customization of the trays and could be frustrating if you have some less common sizes that aren’t marked, or if you’re missing a few socket sizes, leaving you with an incomplete tray. They also won’t work for impact sockets.
- Six socket organizer trays
- Made from heavy-duty molded plastic
- Storage for 1/4-inch, 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch drive sockets
Red and blue trays, for easy identification of metric and SAE sockets
Sockets sizes marked on trays
Suitable for shallow and deep sockets
No option for customization or to hold less common socket sizes
Not for impact sockets
How We Selected the Best Socket Organizers
In order to separate the best socket organizers from all of the rest, we sought out to find products made with durable, quality materials and features that mechanics and auto enthusiasts can benefit from. We considered and compared hundreds of different socket organizers in a variety of shapes, sizes, and styles from comprehensive to compact. We took a look at the type of storage any given organizer offered, and if it allowed for any customization. From there, we considered identification paired with the organizer, like labels, custom DIY labels, or color-coded trays. And lastly, we looked for features like mounting and portability to narrow down our picks.
Our product selections, rankings, and awards for this story are based on research. While we haven’t conducted real-world testing on all of these products yet, we’ve looked at consumer testimonials and data, tutorials, and general discussions on social media and in forums. We also consider price and specification in the context of the segment. And, of course, we rely on our institutional knowledge of the automotive landscape to weed out weak products.
Buying Guide/What to Look For
Like the look of these socket organizers, but just can’t make a final decision? We feel you. It’s a tough call. Hopefully, our buying guide and FAQ will help you see the ‘rail’ ahead more clearly.
What to Consider When Buying Socket Organizers
Types of Socket Organizers
Socket Rail
Some socket organizers consist of metal rails with either metal or plastic clips to hold the sockets. The advantage of this type of socket organizer is that they are generally customizable, meaning you can add and remove clips by sliding them on and off the rails.
Socket Tray
Another type of socket organizer is the socket tray. Generally made from plastic, socket trays usually feature plastic prongs that the sockets slide onto for storage.
Magnetic Socket Organizer
Magnetic socket organizers are usually plastic trays with a built-in magnet to attract the sockets and hold them firmly in place, as well as sticking to a metal surface themselves. This is one of the most secure types of socket organizer.
Drawer Insert Socket Organizer
If you have a lot of sockets and related tools to store – such as a professional mechanic working in a garage – you might have a drawer insert socket organizer system. This type of socket organizer will offer a lot of storage space.
Socket Organizer Key Features
Material
The material your socket organizer is made out of has a pretty big impact as it’s what determines its durability. Higher-quality and hardier materials will hold up better to wear and tear over time, while weaker, lower-quality ones can fare badly. You want to make sure you’re picking out an organizer that can withstand heavy-duty use.
Fortunately, there are plenty of materials available to choose from. You can find socket organizers made out of aluminum, heavy-duty plastic, or even different kinds of steel. You’ll want to look for extra materials, like metal clips or rubber bases to enhance a particular product’s durability.
Storage Capacity
No socket organizer is worth investing in if it can’t hold all of the sockets you own and use regularly. So, you want to make sure to find one that offers just the right storage capacity. You can choose a full set, which holds between 60 and 80 sockets if you need maximum storage space, or you can opt for a smaller, less comprehensive option if you only need to carry a few sockets with you in your toolbox. It’s entirely up to you what storage capacity is best.
Socket Sizes, Drives, and SAE/Metric
Not all socket organizers hold sockets of all sizes, nor will they hold the same type of drive size, or metric vs. SAE. So whether you choose a tray-style or rail-style organizer, sizing, drive size, and your chosen application are always important considerations.
And if you’re working with less common socket sizes, you’ll want to take note of which socket sizes you carry or use most often, so dig through your sockets to see what sizes you’ve got. Then, you’ll know exactly what socket sizes your organizer needs to be able to hold.
Socket Identification
The best socket organizers make identifying your available sockets easy, which means you’ve got to consider the identification method used by any organizer you’re tempted to buy. Some offer color-coded trays, with different sizes identified by different colors. Others feature labels or markings that allow you to easily read the socket size with just a glance (these can be pre-printed onto the organizer or added via included labels). But some organizers do offer you customization, meaning you get to label your sockets and organizer compartments yourself.
Socket Organizer Tips and Tricks
As with something you do for decades upon decades, you pick up a few tips and tricks along the way in terms of selecting the right product, and/or using it. That’s the case with us and socket organizers. To help you bridge the information gap, here’s a selection of what we’ve learned along the way.
- Want to mount your socket organizer on your garage or workshop wall? Many organizers can be carried, used inside toolboxes, and mounted, so make sure to check whether mounting is a possibility or if the product you’re picking can be converted with additional hardware.
- Not all socket organizers will offer a perfect fit for all sockets. Consider the type of sockets you’ll be storing, and make sure to see if other users have experienced fit issues to get a full picture before buying.
- Opting for a tray-style organizer? Consider upgrading to magnetic trays. This detail is small, but it’s one that can help keep every socket in its proper place, especially if you’re transporting the organizer.
FAQs
When you’re working with a socket organizer, your sockets will be nicely organized no matter which kind of organizer you choose but it is a matter of personal preference. While some people like pins that allow you to slide sockets on and stack them, others prefer trays where sockets can lay flat. Both of these organization methods offer different pros and cons, but either works!
If you’re going with a socket rail organizer, you’ll definitely want to mount the rails themselves inside your toolbox to keep everything secure. Every toolbox and every rail organizer is a bit different, but there are typically clips that actually hang onto (or “mount”) the sockets themselves in place. Look for aluminum clips for the greatest level of security.
Having trouble ID-ing your sockets? You’ll want to choose an organizer that offers clear, easy-to-read labeling. Big labels, or labels that are placed prominently above or below the sockets, are best. Or, if you want to keep things basic and identifiable in just seconds, go for a color-coded organizer. With one glance, you’ll know which sockets correlate to which color.
Final Thoughts
It’s hard to beat all of the perks and features of the Olsa Tools 3 Pcs Aluminum Socket Organizer, which is why it’s our top choice for a quality socket organizer. But if you’re looking for a combination of affordability and value, the Gearwrench 3 Pc. Metric Socket Storage Tray Set is another great option. Which socket organizer is your favorite style?
