Contents
- Things To Consider Before Buying A Tool Box
- Best Toolbox Models Reviewed
- Editor’s Choice: DEWALT TSTAK Tool Box
- Runner-Up: Craftsman 3-Drawer Metal Portable Chest Toolbox
- Best Value for Money: DEWALT Tool Box, One Touch
- Alternative 1: GEARWRENCH 3 Drawer Steel Tool Box
- Alternative 2: APOLLO TOOLS Black Metal Tool Box
- Alternative 3: Stalwart Contractor Grade Tool Box
- Alternative 4: Anyyion Toolbox with Removable Tray
- Alternative 5: Milwaukee PACKOUT Large Tool Box
- Alternative 6: Anyyion 17-Inch Tool Box
- Alternative 7: Husky Connect Cantilever Organizer
- Toolbox FAQ
- Conclusion
A tool box is an essential in life, whether you like to do small at-home DIY projects or if you’re a professional.
It always comes in handy. And on here, you can find the best ones reviewed.
But what is a tool box exactly?
As the name suggests, it’s simply a box where you store all the tools you need. It’s very straightforward, and it should be that way too. Not only is it handy to be able to carry your tools everywhere, but they’ll also be protected.
Even if you just do simple projects at home, having everything you need in a box can massively help you. There are various ones that you can choose from. This then depends on what tools you have and what type of jobs you do.
Luckily, you’re in the right spot to pick the best tool box for tool storage.
In this guide, you can find the 10 best tool boxes with extensive reviews, along with some advice on how to use them. You can be sure to find the best of the best here, and most importantly, one that will fit you and your needs!
Below, you can find the things to consider before buying a tool box. You can also find the best toolbox models reviewed and approved by us, so you can make the best choice for you and for what you need.
Things To Consider Before Buying A Tool Box
Before you buy a tool box, there are a few things you should consider first.
In fact, there are four things you should consider. These include the size of the tool box, its compartments, if it’s for indoor or outdoor use, and, last but not least, its appearance.
Size
Size is probably the first thing you should consider before you purchase a tool box. There are a lot of different sizes you can find out there. The size you choose depends on what you use it for and what type of tools you have.
Ideally, we recommend you to measure all your tools, so you know which tool box would best fit your tools. Pick a box that’s a bit larger than your tools for when you buy new tools, which could be bigger than what you already own.
Also, the size of your tool box can affect the weight and the portability of your box, which you can find out more about below.
As you can imagine, a larger tool box is going to be heavier than a smaller one, so it’s more challenging to carry it around. But, you’ll have more space for your individual tools. So it’s up to you what’s more important for you, how often you carry your tool box around, and if you have larger tools or smaller items.
Weight
Along with the idea of size, there’s also the weight capacity. Basically, the weight of your tool box can determine if it’s going to be a portable tool box or not. You don’t want it to be heavy, as your tools are already heavy. There’s no need to carry extra weight around. And it will be heavier when you put the tools in.
So keep that in mind when picking your tool chest or box, and also think about which tools you want to keep in your box. Heavier tools call for a lighter box, and lighter tools call for a heavier and sturdier tool box.
As for what weights you can find, you can find all types of tool boxes ranging from as little as one kilogram to 10 kilograms, if not more. And that’s only the weight of the box. You also need to consider how much your tools weigh and how much your tool box can hold.
For example, a smaller tool box can hold up to 16 kilos of tools. A larger tool box can carry up to 36 kilos, if not more!
So look at what tools you want to keep in your tool box, check how much they weigh, and decide on which tool box you need depending on that. For example, heavy-duty power tools can weigh more and carry heavier items like saws, while a hammer or pliers will weigh less.
You could always purchase a rolling tool box.
Portability
Portability is also a huge thing to consider before buying a tool box or a tool bag, and weight obviously influences this.
Ideally, pick a lighter toolbox, as tools are already heavy, and you want to be able to carry your tool box, even if you tend to stay in the same place. Hand tools and fasteners will be lighter than power tools.
You want your tool box to protect and organize your tools, but also for it to be portable. Many of them are portable and have a top handle, so you can just carry it around, whenever and wherever you want. We recommend you pick one with a comfortable grip so you don’t injure yourself.
You will need a bigger tool box or a tool bag if you usually do bigger projects. You can find some portable ones with an extendable handle and even wheels, so you can simply wheel them around! It’s efficient, and there’s no risk of injuring yourself while carrying your heavy tool box. Of course, it costs more, but it’s an investment.
Compartments
The next thing you should consider before you purchase a tool box is the compartment aspect. While the design of your tool chest might not seem important at first, compartments can be convenient to hold different tool categories, such as power tools.
Cantilevered designs are the ones that have the most space and the most compartments. Many tool boxes come with compartments you can change or even remove, which is very practical. You can basically customize your tool box depending on what you need and how many compartments you want.
Indoor Or Outdoor Use
Another thing you need to consider before you pick the best tool box for you is if you’re going to use it mostly indoors or outdoors as well.
For indoor use, we recommend you use a wooden tool box.
For outdoor use, it’s best to have a sturdy yet lightweight tool box so that you can carry it around more easily. You can pick from a few, like a plastic tool box or a metal one. Metal is more resistant, including to rust, lightweight, and lasts longer. However, a plastic tool box is cheaper.
As for the handles, we recommend metal handles, as they last longer and won’t rust.
Appearance
Finally, the last thing you need to consider before purchasing a tool box is its appearance. That’s the final touch, and an aesthetically pleasing tool box can actually make a difference in your day.
There are also different materials that not only look different but can also make a difference in what you use them for and how long they last. We recommend you pick a tool box that’s both dustproof and waterproof. Then, you can choose which material you prefer from plastic, aluminum, or metal.
So once you’re done considering the other important aspects when choosing a tool box, it’s important to pick one that looks nice and that you like. This might seem obvious, but people don’t always think about it, and it does make a difference!
Best Toolbox Models Reviewed
Here are the 10 best toolbox models reviewed from amazon so you can pick the best one for your tools, what you use it for, and your personal taste!
Editor’s Choice: DEWALT TSTAK Tool Box
This is our top pick. The DEWALT TSTAK tool box is the best on our list.
It’s affordable, fits a lot of tools, lasts a long time, and you can find it on amazon. What could you ask for more?
This tool box is made out of metal, which means it’s resistant to time but also rust-resistant and protects your tools from damage. This DEWALT box is also the best metal tool box out there. The latches of the box are even heavily anti-rust.
Thanks to its large volume, this box can store tools specifically intended to store large tools. It has a top organizer with fixed dividers for small tools such as screws, screwdrivers, wrenches, and other bits. Overall, you can choose how to fit your compartments in, using drawer liners, with stackable cases, to best organize your tools.
However, the metal latches won’t always last long, but you can always replace them. That’s a minor adjustment for all the storage and organization this tool box can offer.
Pros
- Storage for large tools or automotive purposes
- Best metal tool box
- Lasts a long time
- Stackable
Cons
- Metal latch isn’t solid
Runner-Up: Craftsman 3-Drawer Metal Portable Chest Toolbox
The Crafstman model is our runner-up. This high-quality red tool box is made of metal, which means it’s sturdy, resistant, and a great tool organizer.
It has three drawers, which means you have plenty of space to store and organize all your tools while keeping them safe from any shock or damage.
The drawers are easy and smooth to open, and you can even remove them if you don’t want them.
However, this box is a bit heavy, weighing almost 10 kilos. Also, the drawers can’t lock. We recommend this toolbox if you only intend to use hand tools. Otherwise, you can look at the other options below.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Last a long time
- Plenty of storage space
Cons
- Heavy even when no tools
- Not lockable
Best Value for Money: DEWALT Tool Box, One Touch
We believe this is the best tool box for the money, which is why it’s the third item on our list of the best tool boxes in 2022. It’s right under 30 dollars, and it’s still great quality. You don’t have to break the bank to get a quality item, as this box proves.
DEWALT is an excellent brand for a tool box. This particular tool box is practical too. It has a soft grip handle, which is ideal for carrying around and designed for an easy grip.
What we probably like the most about this tool box is that it has a one-handed latch which you can open with one hand while the other one is busy.
It even has extra features like an integrated water seal to keep away all dust or water damage. So it can handle different conditions and still be good, which is great, especially for the price.
However, this box is made from different materials, which won’t be as durable or sturdy as a metal tool box, for example.
Pros
- Best tool box for the money
- Soft grip handle
- One-handed latch
- Integrated water seal
Cons
- Not made from metal, so less durable
Alternative 1: GEARWRENCH 3 Drawer Steel Tool Box
Now, let’s examine alternatives to these first three tool boxes. This first alternative is the GEARWRENCH three drawer steel tool box, which has a lot of benefits.
Firstly, it’s a steel construction, which is really resistant and makes the box sturdy. Then, this tool box has three drawers that can slide thanks to a ball bearing system. There’s even a padlock for more security.
Plus, this box resists corrosion and rust, and the dust is really easy to wipe off.
Unfortunately, the handle can be a bit small, so it’s not ideal for you if you want to carry it around all the time with you.
Pros
- Made from steel, so resistant and sturdy
- Locking system
- Resists to corrosion and rust
- Easy to clean and maintain
Cons
- Small handle
Alternative 2: APOLLO TOOLS Black Metal Tool Box
This APOLLO TOOLS metal tool box is our second alternative. You can choose the color you prefer for this model, either black, green or pink.
Not only does it have a nice design, but it’s also made from heavy-duty steel and can hold up to 30 pounds of tools, which is enormous. You can use it for any type of project, and the quality is as good as how the product looks.
It has two drawers that open smoothly thanks to ball-bearing drawer slides. On top of these casters, there’s a deep storage compartment as well. So you have lots of storage capacity and storage options.
Plus, it’s not too heavy and is easy to transport around, which is always great.
However, this price range won’t be for everyone, and the tool box can be smaller than what you might expect from the price.
Pros
- Nice design
- Made from heavy-duty steel
- Large storage solution
- Light and transportable
Cons
- More expensive than other models
- Small box
Alternative 3: Stalwart Contractor Grade Tool Box
As the title mentions it, this Stalwart tool box is contractor grade. So if you want to up your home improvement game or simply need a tool box for your job, this could be the one for you.
This Stalwart model has 15 removable compartments, aka tool trays, which is great for storing and organizing your tools.
Overall, this Stalwart box is convenient. You can open it fully to have full access to your tools, and it also has a separate clear-top lid so you can access the top tray. This has support legs, so the box doesn’t tip over.
However, the handle can break easily and is pretty heavy.
Pros
- 15 removable compartments
- Very practical
- Great for storage
Cons
- The handle, can easily break
- Heavy
Alternative 4: Anyyion Toolbox with Removable Tray
This tool box is made from stainless steel, has a dual lock, and is very durable. It even passed a freezing test, surviving a temperature of -22 degrees Fahrenheit.
It has a non-slip handle for improved safety, as well as a lot of storage space that can hold heavy items.
However, the latches aren’t that durable or strong.
Pros
- Lots of storage
- Non-slip handle
- Dual lock
Cons
- Bad latches
Alternative 5: Milwaukee PACKOUT Large Tool Box
This Milwaukee is a tool box that does the job. It doesn’t come with drawers, but the Milwaukee model is practical if you just want to transport your tools quickly.
It’s durable even against tough job or weather conditions and is durable/
Pros
- Durable
- Resists to tough jobs and weather
Cons
- Only the middle drawer
Alternative 6: Anyyion 17-Inch Tool Box
This is a solid and sturdy tool box made from PP plastic, and that passed a freezing test, just as the box above.
This plastic tool box has a non-slip handle and has a lot of storage, which you can personalize. However, it’s not water resistant.
Pros
- Sturdy
- Non-slip handle
- Lots of storage
Cons
- Not water resistant
Alternative 7: Husky Connect Cantilever Organizer
Last but not least, this Husky box is ideal for organizing small parts. So it’s great to store all of your screws, for example. This won’t fit other tools, but that’s not its purpose either.
This can also be quite expensive for what it is, so you could probably buy it at home depot.
Pros
- Great to organize small parts
Cons
- Expensive
Toolbox FAQ
Here’s a quick FAQ so you can learn more about tool boxes and pick which one would be the best for you.
What Makes A Good Tool Box?
A good tool box helps you to organize your tools but also to protect them. Ideally, it should be lightweight as well so you don’t injure yourself, mainly if you use it for outside jobs.
It should also last longer, and for this, we recommend a metal tool box with a metal handle. There are also some combo tool boxes.
To find out more about what makes a good tool box, check the start of our article, where we tell you what things you need to look out for before you invest in a tool box. And once you know what makes a good tool box, you can pick the best one for you in our top 10 best tool boxes selection.
What Are The Benefits Of Having A Tool Box?
There are a lot of benefits to having a tool box, whether you do small DIY projects or take it to your jobsite.
First, there’s the organizational aspect of it. It’s a space where you can organize all your tools individually, and you can even find tool boxes with adjustable compartments. This way, you don’t have to look for hours for lost tools, and it won’t be messy.
Next, having a tool box means that you can carry all your tools everywhere if you have a portable tool box. You can also find a rolling tool box, which is very handy, especially if you bring it to your jobsite.
Finally, a tool box protects your tools from any potential damages. Especially if you carry your tools from one place to another, it’s easier for them to get damaged.
Plus, tool boxes come in different sizes, weights, materials, but also aspects. Some of them are for outdoor use and indoor use, while some are only recommended for indoors. So it’s up to you what you need a tool box for, but it’s definitely a must for all types of projects, and even for DIYers.
Conclusion
Once you know what size, compartments, use, and appearance you want for your tool box, you can be sure that your tool box will be good.
To facilitate your search, we’ve helped you to narrow down your options and only suggest the 10 best tool boxes out there. Out of these, you can pick the best one for you and for your tools.
You will wonder how you’ve spent so many years without a good tool box!