10 Best Air Ratchets of 2020
Photo: AirCat
From DIY enthusiasts to the automobile techs, anyone who has ever dealt with fasteners will find an air ratchet an unbeatable tool in their tool kit.
This little machine not only saves you the trouble of putting in a lot of effort when fastening or removing the fasteners but also allows you to undertake complex tasks with ease. However, all this is only true if you have the best air ratchet.
Due to the small profile of this power tool, it gets into the most confined areas and makes ratcheting faster and easier.
Air ratchets are great all-round tools that will come in handy when working on different parts of the vehicle. And to help you choose a god one here are reviews of 10 top rated air-ratchets and a comprehensive buying guide.
You can also read other product reviews of torque wrench, air impact wrench, grease gun, mechanic tool set.
10 Best Air Ratchets – Review
IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES | |
|---|---|---|---|
 | 1. Ingersoll Rand 109XPA (Best Overall) | ||
 | 2. Ingersoll Rand 170G (Great for Multipurpose Use) | ||
 | 3. AirCat 805-HT (High-Torque & Quieter) | ||
 | 4. Ingersoll Rand 105-D2 (Best 1/4-inch) | ||
 | 5. Tooluxe 31456L (Best Budget) | ||
 | 6. ACDelco ARW1207T (Compact & Lightweight) | ||
 | 7. Milwaukee 2457-21 (Best Brand) | ||
 | 8. AirCat 800 (Strongest 1/4-Inch Design) | ||
 | 9. Neiko 30119B (Small, Lightweight & High Speed) | ||
 | 10. SP Air Corporation SP-1765HD (High Speed & Torque) |
PRODUCT |
|---|
1. Ingersoll Rand 109XPA (Best Overall) |
2. Ingersoll Rand 170G (Great for Multipurpose Use) |
3. AirCat 805-HT (High-Torque & Quieter) |
4. Ingersoll Rand 105-D2 (Best 1/4-inch) |
5. Tooluxe 31456L (Best Budget) |
6. ACDelco ARW1207T (Compact & Lightweight) |
7. Milwaukee 2457-21 (Best Brand) |
8. AirCat 800 (Strongest 1/4-Inch Design) |
9. Neiko 30119B (Small, Lightweight & High Speed) |
10. SP Air Corporation SP-1765HD (High Speed & Torque) |
1. Ingersoll-Rand 109XPA – Top Pick Overall
Photo: Ingersoll-Rand
- Drive Size: 3/8 inch
- Torque: 70-ft.lb
- Speed: 300 RPM
If you are like many mechanics that prefer to use the the best 3/8 inch air ratchet that can easily undertake various tasks and fasten different size bolts, the Ingersoll Rand 109XA is a great buy.
It is quite a sturdy product with excellent features. First of all, the 70-foot pounds torque is one of the highest on our air ratchet reviews and it provides enough power to handle almost any fastening job.
The exclusive IR twin pawl plus head design is created to provide added durability factor. And the 360 adjustable exhaust directs air away from the operator and the work area.
The tool starts with a simple push button throttle to give users an easy time. And it also offers a higher speed output (350 RPM) and is build with a highly durable drive head.
When compared to others on our list, this air ratchet is a little pricier but it is also a more durable model that produces high torque.
Pros:
Cons:
2. Ingersoll Rand 170G – Perfect General Purpose Air Ratchet
Photo: Ingersoll-Rand
- Drive Size: 3/8 inch
- Torque: 55-ft.lb
- Speed: 170 RPM
If you are looking for best air ratchet under $100 the model 170G by Ingersoll Rand is a great option thanks to a more powerful motor and robust overall construction.
It is 3/8-inch drive head ratchet which offers versatility as you can use it for everything from engine repair to general home projects.
Durability if the drive head is also guaranteed by the heat-treated ratchet head. And the grip is also quite comfortable that does not tire your hand, even when you hold the machine for a long time.
While a higher speed would have been more preferable, the 170 RPM you get with this air ratchet is still quite good.
Pros:
Cons:
3. AirCat 805HT – High-Torque and Quieter
Photo: AirCat
- Drive Size: 3/8 inch
- Torque: 130-ft.lb
- Speed: 90 RPM
AirCat 805HT is all about delivering a high torque output to handle even the most demanding applications.
The machine has got 130-foot pound torque to make all the heavy-duty tasks easy and reliable. But there is still more to it besides having the highest torque on our list.
It is also a low-profile and lightweight model that will be great to use even in the most confided areas. And the comfortable and ergonomically designed grip makes things even better.
Noise is also hardly a concern when using this air ratchet as its 84 decibels noise rating makes it one of the quietest on our list. And this ratchet also features a durable and lightweight overall construction.
Given the price of this air ratchet, the speed could have been much better but 90 RPM is still high enough for various applications.
Pros:
Cons:
4. Ingersoll Rand 105-D2 – Best 1/4-inch Air Ratchet
Photo: Ingersoll-Rand
- Drive Size: 1/4 inch
- Torque: 25-ft.lb
- Speed: 250 RPM
If you are on the market for the best 1/4-inch air ratchet, the Ingersoll Rand 105-D2 is as good as it can get because besides being well-built it is also relatively affordable.
It provide a decent speed of 250 RPM and with a 25 foot-pound torque which makes it ideal for simple tasks and handling smaller and shorter fasteners
As far as the durability is concerned, the unique head construction provides more consistent performance and ensure the tool lasts long.
Since it also has a low profile, you can easily slip it inside confined spaces. Plus, the forward and reverse toggle button gives you more freedom to use the machine the way you like.
Adding more to the significant features, the ergonomic coupling nuts and handle ensure the most comfortable grip without any sharp edges.
When compared to other models on our air ratchet reviews, the speed and torque could be better, but the good news is that they are both still enough for the typical tasks that a 1/4-inch air ratchet does.
Pros:
Cons:
5. Tooluxe 31456L – Best Budget Air Ratchet
Photo: Tooluxe
- Drive Size: 1/2 inch
- Torque: 45-ft.lb
- Speed: 150 RPM
Tooluxe 31456L has been specifically build for mechanics shopping on a small budget but do not want to compromise on the quality of the air ratchet they get.
It is also one of the best 1/2 inch air ratchet in our list thanks to the strength and overall performance.
Also, it comes in a more compact size that makes it more maneuverable to allow mechanics to use it in more confided areas.
Besides being one of the best budget air ratchets out there, this product also offer a reversible 4 vane motor that provide fast action with all kind of fastening tasks in both anticlockwise and clockwise directions.
There is also a built-in air regulator for easy touch trigger control and a front exhaust that direct dirt and debris away from the user's face.
This air ratchet is a little on then heavier side and it also has a lower speed output but for its price these are small issues you can live with.
Pros:
Cons:
6. ACDelco ARW1207T – Compact and Lightweight Air Ratchet
Photo: ACDelco
- Drive Size: 3/8 inch
- Torque: 40-ft.lb
- Speed: 290 RPM
There are very few air ratchets that offer both high speed and torque at the same time. And the ACDelco ARW1207T is one such product and this makes it one of the best air ratchet for the money.
The tool delivers a speed of 290 RPM and a torque of 40 foot-pound which are excellent for its price tag. And this is generally a more compact and lightweight model which makes it easy to maneuver..
The construction is also meant to last and it combines metal and plastic. Also, their is a soft and more comfortable anti-slip grip for maximum comfort.
Plus, the reverse and forward toggle switch helps in easy usability and will enhance the versatility of the machine. And this sturdy and powerful air ratchet also has a built-in LED light for illuminating the work area.
There seems to be some complaints about this ratchet leaking air on the speed control dial but in many instances this is a result of getting a faulty model. And the good news is that if you have any issues the manufacturer is always ready and willing to replace the ratchet.
Pros:
Cons:
7. Milwaukee 2457-21 – Top Quality Air Ratchet by a Top Brand
Photo: Milwaukee
- Drive Size: 3/8 inch
- Torque: 35-ft.lb
- Speed: 250 RPM
Milwaukee is one of the best air ratchet brands and you should expect nothing but the best service from their 2457-21 model which is a great general-purpose air ratchet.
The 3/8 inch drive size offers a versatile performance and this is a uniquely designed machine with a narrow head made of high quality materials to provide the best performance.
This air ratchet comes with a complete kit that has everything you need including the battery, charger and both 3/8 and 1/4-inch adapter for increased versatility.
And with the soft and comfortable grip it is easy to maneuver and hold for extended periods with minimal hand fatigue. There is also a built-in LED light that will be very handy when working in darker spaces
This air ratchet is quite pricey and for its price the torque is relatively lower but it makes up for this with a high torque output and increased versatility.
Pros:
Cons:
8. AirCat 800 – Strongest 1/4-Inch Air Ratchet
Photo: AirCat
- Drive Size: 1/4 inch
- Torque: 45-ft.lb
- Speed: 320 RPM
AirCat 8000 is an amazing 1/4-inch air ratchet that will be perfect fro a variety of applications and has been designed to give users one of the strongest performance. .
It has been designed to offer long-lasting performance thanks to the high-quality head and body and 320 RPM speed will ensure you always get the job done faster than with other ratchets out there.
The superior internal mechanics make this model one of the best one in its class as far as the performance and durability are concerned. And this is also a quieter machine with a noise rating of just 85 decibels.
Using is is also guaranteed to be comfortable and with minimal hand fatigue thanks to the ergonomically designed handle.
The 45 foot-pound torque is still not that great but for an under $100 air ratchet it should still be good enough.
Pros:
Cons:
9. Neiko 30119B – Small, Lightweight and High Speed
Photo: Neiko
- Drive Size: 1/4 inch
- Torque: 30-ft.lb
- Speed: 350 RPM
Neiko 30119B is best in class 1/4 inch mini air ratchet when it comes to speed and its 350 RPM is the highest speed on our list. If
The high speed output makes it a great all-round tool that will be ideal for a variety of applications and it will always finish the tasks faster than most others.
Made with high-quality materials, this model is also meant to serve you for a long time and with its small and lightweight profile, it will also be very handy for use in confined spaces.
The ergonomic handle is also another major pro as it makes this an extremely comfortable tool to operate for extended periods.
The 30 foot-pound torque that you get with this air ratchet is one of the lowest on our list but this model makes up for this with its high speed output.
Pros:
Cons:
10. SP Air Corporation SP-1765 – High Speed and High Torque Ratchet
Photo: SP Air Corporation
- Drive Size: 3/8 inch
- Torque: 55-ft.lb
- Speed: 500 RPM
The high speed and high torque SP Air Corporation SP-1765 is one of the best 3/8-inch air ratchets you can get anywhere.
The speed provided by this model is 500 RPM while the torque is 55-foot pound which makes a great combination of power and speed and will hence be ideal for a variety of applications
The single dog clutch impact mechanism makes the product very safe and prevents the hand from possible jerks and injuries.
The body is made of durable aluminium that is completely away from any kind of wear and tear. Plus, it makes the tool quite lightweight and easy to maneuver.
The smaller profile makes it more maneuverable even in the tightest areas. And the fact that it produces less noise means you can use it anywhere and at any time of the day.
Being the second priciest model on our list some mechanics might find this ratchet a little more expensive. But for a model that delivers up to 500 RPM it is worth it.
Pros:
Cons:
How to Buy the Best Air Ratchets
Photo: Ingersoll Rand
There is no doubt that there are many goof air ratchets out there that will work well for you. But, finding that perfect one can be a little overwhelming as they all look good enough. However, keeping the following points in mind should make things easier for you.
1. Drive Head
When choosing an air ratchet it will be important to consider the drive head. It is basically the anvil size and the standard ones will be 1/2" or 1/4" in size.
At the same time, there are heavy duty heads with 3/8” or larger drive heads. What you choose certainly depends on the type of task you will be doing with the air ratchet.
Hence to make sure you choose the right drive head you need to be certain with what you will be using the air ratchet for.
2. Torque
The torque that the tool generates is another crucial factor to consider as it determines what you can use it to fasten. Torque is measured in foot-pound and the higher it is the more powerful the ratchet.
You can get air ratchets with a torque of as little as 20 foot-pound or as much as 200 foot-pound or even more.
If you will only be using he tool for fastening small and basic fasteners you will not necessarily need to spend a lot of cash on the high torque tools as you will end up with a lot of wasted power.
3. Speed
Next important factor is the speed of the air ratchet and it is measured in RPM. And it is basically the rate at which the ratchet spins and screw and unscrew the bolts.
These days, you can find models that comes with adjustable speed which are very ideal for multipurpose use.
High speed air ratchets seem more preferable as they can help to speed up the job, and this is more when driving larger and longer fasteners. But for some more delicate fasteners, something with a low speed is better.
4. Noise
Most traditional air ratchets produce a lot of noise while in operation. While it is impossible for these tools to be completely noiseless you should still go for a model that is as quiet as possible.
A quieter air ratchet allows you to work in any environment and at any time without distracting others.
And to determine the amount of noise that the model you intend to buy produces you only need to look at its noise rating and the lower it is the quieter the air ratchet.
5. Length & Weight
An air ratchet is a handheld machine, and so its length and weight are crucial since they affect the ease of use.
If the machine is small in length then it can easily get into confined areas and work seamlessly. This is especially important when working on car engines where space is limited.
Weight, on the pother hand, determines how long you can work with the air ratchet with no hand fatigue. A heavy ratchet will tire your hand within a short time which means you will not do a lot of work. But a lightweight machine can be used for extended periods with little to no hand fatigue.
6. Warranty
A warranty is your assurance that the air ratchet you buy is well built and designed to last.
The longer the warranty the better as it means you will have a longer protection. and you can get an air ratchet with a warranty that is as short as 1 year and as long as 5 years.
And besides the warranty length you also need to make sure the brand you buy has a reputation of honoring their warranties.
Conclusion
An air ratchet is one of those irreplaceable tools for both DIYers and professional mechanics but like any pother power tool you need to get the best one to ensure top notch service.
But, choosing the best air ratchet only requires yo to take into account factors like torque, speed, drive head and noise rating. And in this piece we explain them in more detail.
Also, we have you covered when it comes to recommendations as their is something for everyone on our top 10 air ratchet reviews. Hence, all you need to do now is pick the model that suits your specific needs and budget.
- 10 Best Air Ratchets – Review
- 1. Ingersoll-Rand 109XPA – Top Pick Overall
- 2. Ingersoll Rand 170G – Perfect General Purpose Air Ratchet
- 3. AirCat 805HT – High-Torque and Quieter
- 4. Ingersoll Rand 105-D2 – Best 1/4-inch Air Ratchet
- 5. Tooluxe 31456L – Best Budget Air Ratchet
- 6. ACDelco ARW1207T – Compact and Lightweight Air Ratchet
- 7. Milwaukee 2457-21 – Top Quality Air Ratchet by a Top Brand
- 8. AirCat 800 – Strongest 1/4-Inch Air Ratchet
- 9. Neiko 30119B – Small, Lightweight and High Speed
- 10. SP Air Corporation SP-1765 – High Speed and High Torque Ratchet
- How to Buy the Best Air Ratchets
- Conclusion
