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A torque wrench tightens nuts and bolts using a very specific amount of twisting force. This is often necessary when performing automotive repairs that involve torquing certain bolts to the setting specified by the vehicle’s manufacturer. But this tool’s utility extends far beyond just vehicles. Those working on plumbing, HVAC (heating, ventilation, and air conditioning) systems, and other construction projects regularly use torque wrenches, as well.
As a result of this diverse range of uses, torque wrenches come in several different types—including click, beam, and digital— and sizes and feature unique characteristics that impact their functionality and utility. To determine which wrench is best for your needs, read on to learn which factors you should consider when shopping for one, as well as our recommendations for the best torque wrenches.
How We Selected and Tested
When making recommendations, we included a wide variety of wrench types so that you could find the best torque wrench for your needs. So whether you want a click, beam, split beam, or digital torque wrench, we’ve got you covered. We also included a three-piece set with the most common and useful drive sizes to tackle as many different applications as possible.
We personally own, and have thoroughly tested, two of the products below. For the remainder, we considered verified customer reviews; researched other articles, published by credible sites, that reviewed torque wrenches; and drew from our experiences using different types and brands of torque wrenches while on the job.
The original author of this story, James Fitzgerald, has over a decade of experience in a variety of trades, and has used torque wrenches throughout his professional career in residential construction, as well as in his personal life working on vehicles. For our latest update, writer Anthony Carrick drew on his experience using several different torque wrenches to tighten lug nuts and fasteners on his own vehicles and an RV. He also uses a smaller torque wrench for tuning up bicycles.
Best Overall – Tekton ½-Inch Drive Micrometer Torque Wrench
As the proud owner of this wrench, I personally attest to its accuracy, ease of use, and versatility. The torque ranges from 10 to 150 foot-pounds, which was everything I needed when I put it to the ultimate test: replacing the engine in my truck. And its all-steel construction made me confident that it would be able to withstand the rigors of the entire job.
The torque values are clearly marked with black numbers contrasting the steel handle, which makes it easy to read even in poor lighting. Then, when you’re done using the wrench, Tekton provides a durable storage case to keep it protected.
Key Specs
| Type | Click |
|---|---|
| Drive Size | ½ in. |
| Torque Range | 10–150 ft.-lb. |
| Accuracy | ±4% |
Best Value – EPAuto ½-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench
EPAuto’s ½-inch torque wrench is made of incredibly durable chrome-vanadium steel and features an easy-to-read torque range scale that includes both foot pounds and newton meters on the handle.
Slip-resistant knurled rubber on the handle gives you a solid grip, even when your hands are greasy or dirty. To sweeten the deal even further, EPAuto throws in a socket extension for accessing hard to reach places and providing the necessary clearance from the rims when tightening lug nuts. It also comes with a handy molded carrying case that keeps the torque wrench and extender from getting separated.
Key Specs
| Type | Click |
|---|---|
| Drive Size | ½ in. with ⅜-in. adapter |
| Torque Range | 10–150 ft.-lb. |
| Accuracy | ±4% |
Best Digital – GearWrench ½-Inch Drive Electronic Torque Wrench
When the utmost accuracy is paramount, this ½-inch digital torque wrench from GearWrench offers a top-of-the-line solution. Right off the bat, it delivers an impressive torque range between 25 and 250 foot-pounds, and it boasts an accuracy rate of ±2 percent in the clockwise direction and ±3 percent for counterclockwise torquing.
Not only does it measure in foot-pounds with an incredible degree of accuracy, but it also displays torque in newton meters and inch-pounds on the highly legible LCD screen. The wrench features a target torque alert that warns you when you’re approaching your desired torque setting, then vibrates, beeps, and flashes when it’s reached that specification.
Key Specs
| Type | Digital |
|---|---|
| Drive Size | ½ in. |
| Torque Range | 25.1–250.8 ft.-lb. |
| Accuracy | ±2% clockwise, ±3% counterclockwise |
Best Click – CDI Comfort Grip Micrometer Adjustable Torque Wrench
This ½-inch torque wrench from CDI—owned by Snap-On, which is famous for quality and precision—is about as powerful as they come with an impressive torque range of 30 to 250 foot-pounds. Not only is that more than enough torque for automotive repairs, but it also works for heavy equipment and construction applications.
In addition to torquing in the standard clockwise direction, this wrench runs counterclockwise, which is useful for securing bolts with reverse threads, such as some lug nuts and some pieces of landscaping equipment.
A quick release button removes the sockets with ease after you’re done tightening, which might otherwise be challenging after applying such a heavy amount of torque.
Key Specs
| Type | Click |
|---|---|
| Drive Size | 1/2 in. w/ 3/8-in. adapter |
| Torque Range | 30-250 ft-lb. |
| Accuracy | +/-4% clockwise, +/-6% counterclockwise |
Best Beam – Performance Tool ½-Inch Beam Style Torque Wrench
This beam-style torque wrench is as affordable as it is precise and easy to use. It’s accurate to within four percent of the listed measurement and provides torque in small, two foot-pound increments.
Silver lettering on a black measurement panel gives the torque range clarity. Plus, it will take measurements clockwise and counterclockwise. It’s also built to last with its steel construction and a rust-resistant chrome finish. An oversized rubber handle gives you something substantial to grip while you’re taking torque readings. With its 1/2-inch drive and 150 foot-pound limit, it’s a good choice for lug nuts and other larger bolts.
Key Specs
| Type | Beam |
|---|---|
| Drive Size | ½ in. |
| Torque Range | 0-150 ft-lb. |
| Accuracy | +/-4% clockwise, +/-4% counterclockwise |
Best Large Torque Wrench – Lexivon Torque Wrench
Lexivon’s torque wrench offers ample power for more demanding applications. It boasts a large 3/4-inch drive with a high max range of 300 feet-pounds. Plus, it comes equipped with a reinforced head made from chrome vanadium alloy steel that’s fitted onto a thick, solid steel shaft. And with its black finish, it resists rust and corrosion.
Its 25-inch length provides the leverage needed to reach those higher torque levels. The bright yellow measurement readings maximize clarity, and the torque wrench comes with a molded plastic carrying case that keeps the wrench protected when it’s not in use. The Lexivon torque wrench is also available in 3/8-inch and 1/2-inch drive sizes.
Key Specs
| Type | Click |
|---|---|
| Drive Size | ¾ in. |
| Torque Range | 0-150 ft-lb. |
| Accuracy | +/-4% clockwise, +/-4% counterclockwise |
Best Split Beam – Tekton ⅜-Inch Drive Beam Torque Wrench
This Tekton torque wrench is ideal for handling smaller fasteners. It features a thumb screw that dials in precise torque wrench settings quickly and can torque up to 250 foot-pounds.
A cover that snaps into place over the thumb screw locks that setting into place, and the large handle gives you a good grip on it. A scale just below the dial provides quick conversions for foot-pounds to inches, and a flexible head offers you more wiggle room when working in tighter confines. And since this torque wrench has no internal tension, store it at any setting without throwing off its accuracy.
Key Specs
| Type | Click |
|---|---|
| Drive Size | ½ in. |
| Torque Range | 40-250 ft-lb. |
| Accuracy | +/-4% clockwise |