A torque wrench provides precision and makes your job a whole lot easier. Did you know that certain types of fasteners that are used on a variety of mechanical devices require tightening to a specific amount so that each component would work harmoniously and adequately? This is where a torque wrench comes in handy. Aside from providing accuracy, a torque wrench promotes safety and prevents damages and malfunction. 

Are you looking for a torque wrench but do not know what to look for and where to find it? Our team of experts has rounded up the best torque wrenches available out there, saving you the time of rummaging the endless list in the market. To have a more detailed perspective, all you have to do is click on the buttons below to check out their best deals on Amazon. With this, here is a comprehensive review of the five best torque wrenches you definitely need to check out.

Best Torque Wrenches Comparison & Rating

Torque Wrenches

Features

EPAuto 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, 10~150 ft./lb, 13.6~203.5 N/m
  • clicking sound signal
  • knurled handle
  • hardened treated chrome vanadium steel alloy
TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench (10-150 ft.-lb.) | 24335
  • high-contrast dual range scale
  • reversible ratchet head
  • no plastic parts
EPAuto 3/8-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench (10-80 ft.-lb. / 13.6-108.5 Nm)
  • pre-calibrated to ± 4%
  • anti-slip knurled handle
  • hardened treated chrome vanadium steel
LEXIVON 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench 10~150 Ft-Lb/13.6~203.5 Nm (LX-183)
  • pre-calibrated to +/- 4%
  • electro-black finish treatment
  • yellow highlighted dual-range scale
Wheeler Firearms Accurizing Torque Wrench with Inch/Pounds Measurement, Bits and Storage Case for Scope Mounting, Gunsmithing and Maintenance
  • hex square adapter
  • S2 tool steel and hardened to 56-58 HRC
  • 10 inches to 65 inches toque adjustment range

1. EPAuto 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench

EPAuto 1/2-inch Drive Click Torque Wrench, 10~150 ft./lb, 13.6~203.5 N/m
Specifications:
96% Overall

Dimensions

17.4 x 3.3 x 2.6 inches

Weight

0.01 ounces

Head Style

Fixed Square

Material

Steel

96%
performance
95%
quality
97%
features
94%
durability
Pros:
  • Made from hardened treated chrome vanadium steel alloy, which makes it corrosion-resistant.
  • Easy to store and comes with a storage case.
  • Comes with a knurled handle, which makes it non-slip.
  • Equipped with a clicking sound that signals when the preset torque value has been reached.
  • Includes a 1/2 -inch drive, 5-inch long extension bar, and a ½-inch drive to ⅜-inch drive reducer.
Cons:
  • Like any other torque wrenches in the market, you have to set the wrench to the lowest torque settings every after use.
Final Take:

This torque wrench has a high torque value extending to 250 feet and can be used on garden equipment, trucks, etc. Also, it provides durability and can be pre-calibrated to ± 4%. Conversely, it has a satin finish and assures it can withstand wear and tear because it is made from hardened treated chrome vanadium steel alloy. An affordable and useful tool that will assist you through the years!

2. TEKTON 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench

TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench (10-150 ft.-lb.) | 24335
Specifications:
93% Overall

Dimensions

18.5 x 1.9 x 1.4 inches

Weight

2.94 pounds

Head Style

Fixed Square

Material

Steel

93%
performance
95%
quality
92%
features
93%
durability
Pros:
  • Comes with a product manual with a torque conversion chart and a storage case.
  • Equipped with a clicking sound that can be felt and heard to signal when the preset value has been reached.
  • Includes a high-contrast dual range scale that is easy to read, especially in low light conditions.
  • Has a reversible ratchet head that works in both directions and measures torque in a clockwise direction.
  • Has no plastic parts, which makes it durable and unbreakable.
Cons:
  • The tools need to be stored in its lowest setting of 10 ft.lb./13.6 when not in use. This is to ensure that the torque wrench maintains its calibration every time you use it.
  • Similar to other torque wrenches, the clicking sounds are not audible when used in noisy areas.
Final Take:

This torque wrench is calibrated to an accuracy of +/ 4%, making you work confidently and eliminate guessing. This tool also ensures parts are adequately secured without causing damage. Besides that, it has a reversible ratcheting head that can drive fasteners in both directions. Lastly, it is equipped with a reliable mechanical operation in the handles that offers a click alert to stop you from exerting force. This truly is a dependable tool that provides accurate and consistent results all the time.

3. EPAuto 3/8-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench

EPAuto 3/8-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench (10-80 ft.-lb. / 13.6-108.5 Nm)
Specifications:
92% Overall

Dimensions

15.8 x 3 x 2.75 inches

Weight

2.55 pounds

Head Style

Fixed Square

Material

Alloy Steel

90%
performance
93%
quality
92%
features
91%
durability
Pros:
  • Durable as it is made of hardened treated chrome vanadium steel.
  • Has a knurled handle that is anti-slip and comes with a storage case for easy safekeeping.
  • Reliable due to its clicking sound feature that alerts you when the torque reached its maximum preset.
  • Comes with a 3/8” to 1/4” drive adapter, 3/8” to 1/2” drive adapter, and 3/8” drive extension bar.
  • Pre-calibrated to ± 4% to ensure accuracy.
Cons:
  • Calibration might be challenging. However, there is an instruction manual that comes with a tool that will guide you.
  • Measurement markings are a bit hard to read.
Final Take:

If you want a reliable torque wrench, then this might be what you are looking for. Aside from being made of hardened treated chrome vanadium steel, this tool is pre-calibrated to ± 4% to guarantee precision and reliability. In this light, it is an absolute steal as it comes with a 3/8” to 1/4” drive adapter, 3/8” to 1/2” drive adapter, and 3/8” drive extension bar. With an anti-slip grip, accuracy has never been this easy!

4. LEXIVON 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench

LEXIVON 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench 10~150 Ft-Lb/13.6~203.5 Nm (LX-183)
Specifications:
91% Overall

Dimensions

2.5 x 3 x 18 inches

Weight

3.65 pounds

Head Style

Fixed Square

Material

Metal

91%
performance
90%
quality
92%
features
89%
durability
Pros:
  • Includes a calibration certificate and is pre-calibrated to +/- 4%.
  • Has a reinforced ratchet gear head that is made of hardened heat-treated chrome-vanadium alloy steel.
  • Equipped with an electro-black finish treatment that makes it free from corrosion and rust.
  • Features an easy-to-read yellow highlighted dual-range scale, which comes in handy in low-light areas.
  • The tool comes with a reversible ratchet head that can be used in both directions.
Cons:
  • The torque wrench does not come cheap. However, you can easily justify the price due to the tool’s precision and materials used to warrant longevity.
Final Take:

This is a fantastic and reliable torque wrench due to its precision and performance. Treated with an electro-black finish, this tool is immune to corrosion and rust. It also features a yellow printed dual-rang scale that makes it easier for you to identify the markings even in low-light conditions. Lastly, it is very comfortable to use as it comes with a reversible ratchet head that works in both directions.

5. Wheeler Firearms Accurizing Torque Wrench

Wheeler Firearms Accurizing Torque Wrench with Inch/Pounds Measurement, Bits and Storage Case for Scope Mounting, Gunsmithing and Maintenance
Specifications:
90% Overall

Dimensions

3.23 x 6.06 x 3.07 inches

Weight

8 ounces

Head Style

Hex

Material

Plastic

92%
performance
92%
quality
88%
features
88%
durability
Pros:
  • Comes with a toque adjustment range from 10 inches to 65 inches.
  • Bits are made of S2 tool steel and hardened to 56-58 HRC.
  • Includes a hex square adapter, flat blades, and a1/4-inch socket, and a storage case.
  • Easy to use and has accurate torque settings to scope guard rings, screws, base screws, and windage screws.
  • Features an ergonomic handle and a standard 1/4” hex drive tip.
Cons:
  • The torque settings scale is a bit too small.
  • It is a bit pricey for its features.
Final Take:

This torque wrench is designed for +/- 2 in-lbs accuracy up to 40 in-lbs, +/- 5% over 40 in-lbs. It can also be applied to any fastener and is not limited to firearms and firearm accessories. Additionally, this tool has a high adjusted torque setting that guarantees a lifetime reliable service. Plus, the package includes 9 bits and a square drive adapter!

Best Torque Wrenches - Buyer's Guide

accuracy

One of the primary features you should look out for is accuracy. A torque wrench should be able to provide consistent results. Accuracy specifications can range anywhere from 1% to 6%. If you need a tight torque specification, it is highly recommended that you purchase higher accuracy specifications.

Material

As a consumer, you should also consider what materials are used to make the product. This ensures that you get a sturdy tool that can withstand wear and tear. It would be best if you went for a torque wrench that is made of hardened-treated chrome-vanadium steel alloy.

Head Style

The head style depends on what kind of work you need it for. However, in general, most of the torque wrenches today are compatible anywhere. So, this solely boils down to your preference.

storage

A torque wrench left for an extended period can malfunction. This is why you should opt for ones that include a storage case. Improper storage can significantly affect its accuracy and reliability as some components can change, weaken, and be disoriented.

scale

The best torque wrench scale must be around ½ inch torque with an operating range of 30 to 160 feet. Your scale must be diverse and can do heavy fasteners as well as light ones.

Best Torque Wrenches - FAQs

What is the difference between a torque wrench and a ratchet?

Ratchet wrenches are utilized to loosen and tighten bolts, while torque wrenches are commonly used in automotive work and other projects that demand an accurate torque setting for particular bolts.

What is the purpose of a torque wrench?

A torque wrench is a tool maximized to apply and control a specific torque to a fastener like a nut or a bolt. This also provides precision and guarantees no errors. This is a fundamental element in tire changing operations, general mechanics, and industrial maintenance and repair industries to ensure customer safety.

Do you really need a torque wrench?

A torque wrench may come in handy, especially if you plan to do work on your engine or powertrain components. Why? Well, for instance, over tightening a cylinder-head bolt can impose expensive damage and catastrophic coolant loss. In simpler words, a torque wrench prevents unwanted damages, malfunctions, and promotes safety.

What is inside a torque wrench?

A torque wrench consists of a roller and cam mechanism. The cam is strategically attached to the driving head as the roller pushes forward against the cam locking it in place by using a special force that is utilized by an adjustable spring.

Author

Jimmy Black started his career as a construction and carpenter foreman. After years of hard work, he decided to go on his own. Now, Jimmy is one of the trusted experts at SolidSmack who knows at first glance whether your hammer would do a great job or not. He still involves himself in various construction projects and works for individual clients. Behind formalities, he enjoys being a father to two lovely kids who keep on asking him why they can’t quit school and travel the world like Dora The Explorer.