Craftsman vs Kobalt Tool Chest: In-Depth 2024 Review

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Investing in a mechanic’s tool chest is a significant financial decision, emphasizing the importance of choosing a durable option.

Craftsman and Kobalt are top contenders in the toolset market, boasting positive reviews from mechanics across the globe.

That’s fantastic – except it can be hard to differentiate which is best for your needs.

Which hand tools are included, how long is the warranty, and the price of the toolkit are all valid considerations.

So to save you a trip to the store – we’ve done a Kobolt vs Craftsman Tool Chest 2024 Review.

Buy with the confidence that you’re buying the optimal toolkit for your needs. Let’s dive straight into the reviews.

Contents

Kobalt vs Craftsman Tool Chest

Kobalt 227-Piece Mechanics Tool Chest

Kobalt 227-Piece Standard/Metric Mechanics Tool Set with Case 86756
  • Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories

If you’re looking for the highest quality tool chest, then Kobalt tools is the way to go. This Kobalt tool chest provides almost every hand tool you could ever need.

This 227-piece kit includes 117 commonly used 6-point and 12-point sockets, 3 ratchets, 4 extensions, 30 combination wrenches, 40 hex keys, and 33 assorted tools.

Sockets are constructed of chrome vanadium steel for strength and durability and have a professional-grade, high-polish finish.

This toolset comes packaged in a secure toolbox containing spacious shelves with clear markings. The tool drawer also comes with an empty bottom drawer that allows you to store any additional tools you might need.

Their drivers are equipped with a handle featuring an ergonomic design that makes it more comfortable to handle. There is also a small hole at the top of the handle that can be used to hang the tool on a rack should you want to move it from the box set for faster access.

The quick-release button on ratchets allows for rapid socket and/or accessory change. A 1/4-in Drive Ratchet and 3/8-in Drive Ratchet are included, as well as deep and shallow sockets and a spark plug socket.

Their drivers also come with an interchangeable feature that allows you to use different sized bits without having to flood your workspace with the different options available. The bits connect with a magnetic feature that allows for faster switches when working with different sizes.

Kobalt has excelled with a durable toolkit. They know this is the case and have provided all customers with a lifetime guarantee.

If you’re looking for the highest quality tool chest, go with Kobolt over Craftsman. Experience the quality for yourself.

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What We Like
  • Quick-release button on ratchets allows for rapid socket and accessory changes
  • Hassle-Free Lifetime Guarantee
  • Other assorted tools includes a magnetic bit driver, 1 spinner handle, a 12-piece nut driver set and a 19-piece insert bit set
  • Meets or exceeds ASME specifications
  • 3-drawer blow-molded tool chest keeps your tools organized and offers convenient storage and transportation
What We Don’t Like
  • More expensive than Craftsman

Craftsman 320 Piece Mechanics Tool Chest

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Craftsman’s toolset includes a few extra hand tools, comes in at a significantly lower price compared to the Kobalt tool chest. While Craftsman toolsets may not match Kobolt’s premium quality, they offer significant savings, making them an affordable choice.

One of the first things you notice about the packaging is that the toolbox has a sturdy design that will not fall apart if mishandled. The design also includes a latching system on the sides that keep the drawers in check and will not allow them to slip open during movement.

Tool Variety The Craftsman 270-piece mechanics toolset can help you complete any and every mechanical job more efficiently. This toolset includes metric, inch, standard, and deep good sockets made for three 36T ratchet sizes.

This kit includes a total of 152 six, eight, and twelve-point sockets as well as ¼”, ⅜”, and ½” ratchets. Four extension bars are also included to make it easier to work in tight spaces.

This kit also includes 40 different Allen keys in short and long-armed varieties, a blow-molded toolbox, a magnetic screwdriver handle with 96 insert bits and a dozen nut drivers, and eight combination wrenches.

The molded spaces within, however, are not always precise, which can lead to some small tools falling out of the box is moved too roughly. As changing sockets can significantly slow down a job, these ratchets are designed with a quick-release mechanism to keep you working.

The drivers available offer the owner two choices when it comes to fixing different bit sizes onto the head. One can either use the detached bits available with the collection, thanks to the hex key fitted in the end. You can also choose to use actual driving portions if you’re not a big fan of the former.

The drivers are screwed onto the head in a matter of seconds, and provide a steady base for your work. The portions come in different sizes ranging from 8 to 12 mm. The range of sizes and tools in this kit gives you the freedom that you need to work in large spaces as well as small, restrictive places.

While this Craftsman toolset is definitely above average, it’s quality isn’t as high as the Kobalt tool chest. That said, if you’re looking for a more affordable option, Craftsman is a good choice.

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What We Like
  • Excellent value buy – great value for money
  • Includes more hand tools than Kobalt
  • Alloy steel construction for durability
  • Tools can be stored in the included three-drawer portable tool chest
What We Don’t Like
  • Build quality is not as good as Kobalt
  • The loaded chest is a bit heavy

Final Comparison: Kobalt vs Craftsman

Kobalt is the best choice if you’re looking for a high-quality tool chest. Craftsman is better if you’re looking for a more affordable toolset, or don’t think you’ll be using your tools very often. Overall both Kobalt and Craftsman both have a lifetime warranty on their toolkits, so be sure to contact them if you experience any issues.

Kobalt 227-Piece Standard/Metric Mechanics Tool Set with Case 86756
  • Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessories

About Blake Sutton

Blake has worked as an electrician for over 10 years, receiving his Journeyman Electrician license in 1998. Looking to take his professional electrical career further, in 2008 he received his Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from the University of Texas in Austin. Blake now works full time as an electrical engineer, specializing in power systems.