by Joshua Thomas
The socket organizer provides a practical way of storing all those different sizes and types of sockets you use on your socket wrench.
A socket wrench that comes with many sockets is more versatile and functional. However, one of the main problems of this is that over time, many of them get lost or clutter your workshop as the more you have, the harder it becomes to keep track of them.
The need to properly manage your sockets is where the socket organizer comes into action. Socket organizers are a simple but highly effective way to eliminate toolbox clutter and ensure you don't lose some of your plugs.
Most are heavy-duty molded ABS plastic, but some models are made from metals like aluminum as well. If you are looking for the best toolbox socket organizer for the money, we have a list of some of the best quality ones and show you how to choose.
Contents
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | FEATURES |
|---|---|---|
 | 1. Olsa Tools ALSRRD (Best Overall) |
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 | 2. Hansen Global 92000 |
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 | 3. Ares 70232 |
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 | 4. Ernst Manufacturing 8415 |
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 | 5. Neiko 03965A |
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 | 6. OemTools 22233 |
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 | 7. Horusdy 97272 |
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The Olsa Tools is an aluminum socket organizer that will provide long-lasting service. Indeed, this socket organizer will not rust, is corrosion-free, and highly durable.
You can store up to 54 sockets of different sizes, and the clips themselves are a sturdy ABS plastic material. This socket organizer can accommodate different socket sizes of 1/4 inch, 1/2 inch, and 3/8 inch, which makes it quite flexible.
Additionally, each clip is spring-loaded, hence making it very smooth and easy to use. Moreover, the clips will hold each socket quite firmly when attached. You can even hold the socket organizer upside down, and they will not fall. If you do not have a lot of sockets to store, this is an excellent model to consider.
The only caveat we note with this product is that some parts may rust over time, as it is not fully waterproof and weatherproof. Additionally, the tray itself is quite narrow, so if you usually store it in an upright position, it will not be very stable.
Pros
Cons
One of the highlights of this Hansel Global socket organizer is an impressive capacity. Indeed, you can store up to 166 of them in this tray.
Since this unit is ABS plastic, it is very durable and long-lasting. Also, this build ensures that it is corrosion-free and will resist substances like oils that you usually encounter in the garage or workshop.
When it comes to socket sizes, this tray will accommodate all industry-standard socket sizes, ranging from 1/4 inch up to 1/2 inch.
Additionally, the clips have been designed in such a way to accommodate both deep and regular sockets. And this will make them quite flexible so that they can hold a full set of socket wrench accessory bits.
This socket organizer tray could have been more affordable, and the plastic construction does not give it a premium feel. However, you still get a lot of value for your money.
Pros
Cons
The Ares 70232 is a small and portable socket organizer that comes in different sizes. However, this model is a specialist socket organizer that holds only one type of socket size at a time. You can choose the socket size model during purchase.
What sets this unit apart in this socket organizer review is its magnetic clips, which provide a firmer and more secure storing ability. We also like that the socket sizes clearly marked, and the white on red contrast makes the markings highly visible, even in low-light conditions.
The bottom of the tray also has a rubber pad that prevents it from damaging the surface. All in all, the Ares 70232 is a simple but highly effective magnetic socket organizer. If you only work with a specific socket size, this is an excellent model to consider.
The only disadvantage we see with this socket holder is that it can keep a maximum of 26 sockets only. Also, it can only accommodate one socket size at any given time, which further limits its storage capacity.
Pros
Cons
When it comes to price, Ernst Manufacturing is unbeatable. Indeed, this model is one of the most affordable socket organizers that money can buy. It measures 13 inches, which allows it to accommodate 14 sockets.
However, its length is still enough to fit in a small bag comfortably. Additionally, one of the best features of this socket organizer is its twist-lock mechanism, which will hold the sockets firmly in position whenever you twist the socket on the clip.
In general, we are impressed to see that the twist-lock mechanism has been implemented in this affordable socket organizer because this is a feature that is often for more expensive and premium grade socket organizers.
If you do not have to store a lot of sockets, this is an excellent choice because it can hold only 14 sockets. Also, it is too basic, and the twist-lock mechanism is a bit difficult to work with when compared to more premium models.
Pros
Cons
The Neiko 03965A is a simple and yet highly effective socket organizer that can accommodate up to 62 sockets with no problem. It will also fit most socket sizes ranging from 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, and 1/2 inch. Better yet, this model has a wall hanging clip so you can hang it easily on your wall.
Moreover, its red coloration makes it easy to see and find in the workshop. Additionally, the clips are deep and build in such a way that they will provide a firm grip to your sockets, whether you are storing shallow or deep ones.
In terms of build construction, there is no problem there as the manufacturer uses a thick molded plastic that is highly durable and long-lasting. The material also makes the Neiko 03965A quite lightweight and easy to carry around.
Best of all, there is a wall hanger clip that makes this model one of the best toolbox socket organizers on the market. The only problem with this model is its plastic build construction and that it uses SAE measurements only.
Pros
Cons
For those who need to store a lot of sockets, the OemTools 22233 is a perfect solution. Indeed, this unit can store up to 166 sockets, which should be enough for even the biggest socket wrench accessory kit on the market.
This model can hold a wide range of socket sizes in the order of 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch, and 1/2 inch. Best of all, the prongs are long and durable, which means that this top-rated socket organizer will be able to hold any socket with ease without it breaking easily.
Furthermore, this unit uses both SAE and metric for ease of use. The markings are clear enough, and since the readings are notable contrast, it will not be a problem reading them in low-light conditions.
We only wished that the price could have been more competitive because it is a bit pricey for a socket storage tray made exclusively from plastic.
Pros
Cons
Regarding ease-of-use and price, the Horusdy is rated by many as one of the best toolbox socket organizers on the market.
Moreover, it can accommodate both shallow and deep sockets with ease. Furthermore, the clips have a ball bearing system similar to a regular socket wrench, which allows you to quickly and easily add your sockets to the clip. Additionally, they offer a firm and secure clipping.
Best of all, this model can accommodate up to 54 sockets of varying socket sizes, which is more than enough for most people. This model comes as a 3-piece, but you can also order one that comes as a 6-piece as well.
The only disadvantage we spot with this socket holder tray is that the build construction could have been better, even if its price is very affordable.
Pros
Cons
Photo: rako.com
The tray organizer remains one of the most popular types of socket organizers on the market. It is a simple organizer that, as its name suggests, will have prongs that accommodate sockets of different sizes.
One of the main advantages of the tray container is that it is compact and will not take a lot of space, especially when stored in a work bag.
The rail socket organizer uses a system of rails where one side of the rail system slides over the other. It then hooks into the socket drive, which is on one side of the rail system. Some of the main advantages of the railing system are its ease of use and big storage capacity.
However, the caveat is that the rail system is generally more complex than other types of socket organizers and organizing your sockets in one takes more time.
The magnetic socket organizer comes in different shapes and sizes. This top-rated socket organizer uses magnets to hold the sockets in place. The magnetic socket organizer distinguishes itself from other types of organizers with its simplicity and affordable price.
Indeed, if you are on a budget, the magnetic organizer is most of the time the type of socket organizers you want to buy. And it is just a flat tray with holes in it that contains the magnets. By inserting the sockets into those holes of different sizes, the magnets help keep them firmly in position.
As its name suggests, the pouch organizer is simply a pouch with socket clips that will help organize your different sockets of different sizes. The main advantages of the pouch organizer are its affordable pricing and ease-of-use.
There is simply no installation required with the pouch organizer. But, compared to other socket organizers on the market, the pouch organizer is the least efficient as it has difficulties keeping different kinds of sockets securely in position.
The drawer insert is usually for professionals who have a lot of sockets to store. Indeed, this type of socket organizer is large and holds lots of sockets of varying sizes. The main disadvantage of the drawer insert is that it is too bulky and heavy, therefore not very portable.
The capacity of your socket organizer is one of the most important aspects to take into account. Socket organizers are not the same size, as some have a larger storage capacity than others. Additionally, an organizer with more storage capacity will generally also cost more.
Therefore, if you have a socket wrench kit that does not come with many sockets, you can safely buy a socket organizer that can store a couple of dozen sockets at a time. However, if you are a professional and have sockets lying around, it is ideal to buy a socket organizer that can store hundreds of sockets, even if it will cost you a bit extra.
The size of the socket organizer is another crucial factor because a large one translates to more mass and less portability. If you carry your socket organizer to the worksite, then you should ensure that your socket organizer is not bigger than your carry bag, for example.
One of the best things about the socket organizer is its ease-of-use. All you have to do is take a socket and plug it into the socket organizer clip. Very easy. However, some models are even more secure and easy.
Those socket organizers use a twist and lock mechanism that will firmly and safely lock your socket on the clip. You can even hold your socket organizer upside down, and your sockets will never fall.
When choosing a socket organizer, the bottom line is that it is always a good idea to go with a model that is not overly complex to use.
Since you do not want to buy a socket organizer every year, it is vital to buy something durable enough. Most socket organizers are ABS plastic, which is a very tough and long-lasting material.
Other models that are made from heavy-duty metals as well. Whatever material you buy, make sure that the build construction is heavy-duty, durable, and also corrosion-free, so that you can get a socket organizer that will last you for years to come.
Olsa Tools 1/2-Inch, 3/8-Inch & 1/4-Inch Drive Aluminum Socket Organizer | Professional - Walmart Link
Ernst Manufacturing 18-Inch Socket Boss, Premium 3-Rail Multi-Drive Socket Organizer, Red - Walmart Link
MLTOOLS Socket Organizer - 90 Pieces Universal Twist-Lock Clips to Fit 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" - Walmart Link
Olsa Tools Portable Socket Organizer Tray | Black Rails with Green Clips | Holds 80 - Walmart Link
TEKTON 3/8 Inch Drive Socket Organizer (14 Clips) | 1882 - Walmart Link
ARES 70204-3-Piece Red Aluminum Socket Organizer Set - 1/4-Inch, 3/8-Inch, and 1/2-Inch - Walmart Link
ARES 70235 - 30-Piece 3/8-Inch Metric Magnetic Socket Holder - Securely Holds 15 Standard - Walmart Link
Hansen Global 92000 SAE & Metric, 2-Row Socket Tray Set - 6-Pieces, Red & Grey - Walmart Link
Olsa Tools Magnetic Socket Organizer | 3 Piece Socket Holder Kit | 1/2-inch, 3/8-inch, & - Walmart Link
Neiko 03969A Socket Holder Rail, 3 Piece Organizer Set | 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2-Inch Drive - Walmart Link
OEMTOOLS 22233 6 Piece Socket Tray Organizer Set, Green and Black, Socket Rails, Holds 80 - Walmart Link
6PCS Socket Organizer Tray Set, Red SAE & Black Metric Socket Storage Trays, 1/4-Inch, - Walmart Link
Olsa Tools 1/2-Inch, 3/8-Inch & 1/4-Inch Drive Aluminum Socket Organizer | Professional - eBay Link
Ernst Manufacturing 18-Inch Socket Boss, Premium 3-Rail Multi-Drive Socket Organizer, Red - eBay Link
MLTOOLS Socket Organizer - 90 Pieces Universal Twist-Lock Clips to Fit 1/4", 3/8", 1/2" - eBay Link
Olsa Tools Portable Socket Organizer Tray | Black Rails with Green Clips | Holds 80 - eBay Link
TEKTON 3/8 Inch Drive Socket Organizer (14 Clips) | 1882 - eBay Link
ARES 70204-3-Piece Red Aluminum Socket Organizer Set - 1/4-Inch, 3/8-Inch, and 1/2-Inch - eBay Link
ARES 70235 - 30-Piece 3/8-Inch Metric Magnetic Socket Holder - Securely Holds 15 Standard - eBay Link
Hansen Global 92000 SAE & Metric, 2-Row Socket Tray Set - 6-Pieces, Red & Grey - eBay Link
Olsa Tools Magnetic Socket Organizer | 3 Piece Socket Holder Kit | 1/2-inch, 3/8-inch, & - eBay Link
Neiko 03969A Socket Holder Rail, 3 Piece Organizer Set | 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2-Inch Drive - eBay Link
OEMTOOLS 22233 6 Piece Socket Tray Organizer Set, Green and Black, Socket Rails, Holds 80 - eBay Link
6PCS Socket Organizer Tray Set, Red SAE & Black Metric Socket Storage Trays, 1/4-Inch, - eBay Link
The socket organizer remains a handy and practical way of organizing your wrench sockets of different sizes. One of the best things about the socket organizer is that it will hold your sockets firmly and securely in position.
If you own a socket wrench, you need the socket organizer as it is an excellent way to store your sockets and prevent you from losing your accessory bits.
And now finding the perfect one for you should be super-easy as there is something for everyone on our list above. What's more, we also make it clear how to pick the right one for you.
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About Joshua Thomas
Joshua Thomas just simply loves cars and willing to work on them whenever there's chance... sometimes for free.
He started CarCareTotal back in 2017 from the advices of total strangers who witnessed his amazing skills in car repairs here and there.
His goal with this creation is to help car owners better learn how to maintain and repair their cars; as such, the site would cover alot of areas: troubleshooting, product recommendations, tips & tricks.
Joshua received Bachelor of Science in Mechanical Engineering at San Diego State University.
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