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Last updated: 13 Feb 2020

11 Best Tool Boxes (Review) In 2021

milwaukee packout rolling tool box

Milwaukee Packout Rolling Tool Box

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craftsman tool box with tray

Craftsman Tool Box with Tray

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ridgid professional tool storage cart and organizer stack

RIDGID Professional Tool Storage Cart

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Show contents
By Instash
Published 15:23 pm
Contents
  • The Best Tool Box
  • 1 Milwaukee Packout Rolling Tool Box
  • 2 DeWalt Tough System Case Tool Box
  • 3 Keter Pro Tool Box
  • 4 RIDGID Professional Tool Storage Cart
  • 5 Craftsman 13” Tool Box with Tray
  • 6 Keter New Masterloader Portable Rolling Tool Box
  • 7 Akro-Mils ProBox Plastic Tool Box
  • 8 Waterloo Portable Series Tool Box
  • 9 BOSTITCH Rolling Tool Box
  • 10 Homak 3-Drawer Ball-Bearing Tool Chest
  • 11 OEMTOOLS Tool Box with Removable Tool Tray

It doesn’t matter if you’re a professional, a hobbyist, or someone who just has tools because everybody else does, the convenience and reliability of the best tool box cannot be understated. More than just a useful tool storage solution, they are a necessary part of every home, because you can’t always rely on the repairman, your dad, or next door to help you out when something goes wrong.

Depending on what you need in a tool box, we’ve put together a thorough and broad selection for everyone. From those who need to carry their tools from site to site every day, to those who only get them out a few times a year, we’ve got the ideal tool box for you.

The Best Tool Box

1
Milwaukee Packout Rolling Tool Box

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milwaukee packout 22” rolling tool box
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Our top pick for the best tool box is the Milwaukee Packout 22” Rolling Tool Box. This little guy is easily portable, boasting 9 all-terrain wheels to handle a variety of surfaces, and comes with an industrial grade construction and extension handle for easy rolling and durability across the construction yard or onto gravel.

It’s compatible with other Packout modular storage units, giving you the chance to build upon with ease if you need to increase your storage space, but if not, it still offers excellent results, with an interior storage tray to keep all your bits in the right place. If you love tools, check out our guide to the best cordless drills.

Key Features:

9 All-Terrain wheels

Industrial grade extension handle

Interior organization tray

Compatible with Packout modular storage products

Specification:
  • BrandMilwaukee
  • Model48-22-8426
  • Weight15 pounds

2
DeWalt Tough System Case Tool Box

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dewalt tough system case
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Tough by name and nature and all that, the DeWalt Tough System Case is a robust and durable option for both efficiency both on the go and on the job. A versatile storage option, you’ll never forget which tool goes where, and you can guarantee they are protected along rough terrains and bumpy roads.

The interior is spacious enough for your favorite, most-used tools, while the IP65 water seal everything safe from rain and dust. Even though there are no wheels, it’s still easy to carry, with heavy duty handles on either side for straightforward carrying, and a way to get your arm workout in if you don’t have time to get to the gym.

Key Features:

Robust structure with large interior space

IP65 integrated water seal protects from the environment and rust

Removable tray for hand tools

Side handles enable easy carrying

Specification:
  • BrandDeWalt
  • ModelDWST08203H
  • Weight9.5 pounds

3
Keter Pro Tool Box

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keter pro tool box
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keter pro tool box
keter pro tool box
keter pro tool box
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The Keter Pro Tool Box is a solidly built and heavy duty option for both hobbyists and professionals. Its rugged polypropylene resin construction is durable while still being lightweight enough for easy carrying to and from the van. This construction protects against droppage while the padlock space is perfect for keeping your tools safe when on the job or at home.

We also love the easy-access lid organizers, which are perfect for storing the little bits that are too easily lost within the tool box. Not only does this keep everything neat and tidy, it also reduces the time you waste searching around inside, which is good news for clients, and allows you to get home a little faster. Our handy guide to the best stud finders features more great products like this.

Key Features:

Rugged polypropylene resin construction

Lid organizers on either side of handle to store small parts

Padlock space to keep tools safe and secure

Removable tray for easy access to power tools

Specification:
  • BrandKeter
  • Model238060
  • Weight4.1 pounds

4
RIDGID Professional Tool Storage Cart

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ridgid professional tool storage cart and organizer stack
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Our premium pick is the RIDGID Professional Tool Storage Cart and Organizer Stack, which goes just a tad further than your traditional tool box on wheels, and catapults you into a new world of storage solutions. Multiple boxes ensure easy organization while an integrated water seal ensures your tools suffer no damage on the job.

This rolling tool box is more than tough enough,  with high impact resin construction and all-terrain wheels to handle the most demanding job sites. The vast storage capabilities mean you don’t need to adjust and swap tools out for others, keeping all the essentials in the same place. Find more great products like this by checking out our guide to the best circular saws.

Key Features:

High impact resin and heavy duty construction

Extendable handles and all-terrain wheels

Multiple boxes for organization

Integrated water seal protects against rust and corrosion

Specification:
  • BrandRIDGID
  • ModelB0174NP7JE
  • Weight47 pounds

5
Craftsman 13” Tool Box with Tray

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craftsman 13” tool box with tray
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While the RIDGID is great for professionals and an excellent premium choice, the best tool box if you’re after great value is the Craftsman 13” Tool Box with Tray, which is lightweight but durable, making the most of its plastic construction to ensure there’s no damage to your tools when on the move.

The tray makes organization simple while the metal lid stop keeps it in place when working to save you opening it up every time to find the bit you need. While it’s not the largest tool box in the world, it still offers ample space for professionals working quick jobs or DIYers who need somewhere to store their tools while on a budget.

Key Features:

Heavy duty and durable plastic construction

Multiple organizational to save time on the job including integrated lid organizers

Metal lid stop keeps lid open when working

Solidly constructed latch and padlock eye ensures security

Specification:
  • BrandCraftsman
  • Model# 52013
  • Weight1 pound

6
Keter New Masterloader Portable Rolling Tool Box

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keter new masterloader portable rolling organizer tool box
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keter new masterloader portable rolling organizer tool box
keter new masterloader portable rolling organizer tool box
keter new masterloader portable rolling organizer tool box
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With compartmentalized bins, the Keter New Masterloader Portable Rolling Organizer Tool Box provides ingenious and versatile tool storage solutions. You can take advantage of the two top compartments built into the lid to store small bits for easy access, and these open out to reveal the main bin beneath, which maximizes storage space.

The central locking system guarantees security on the job while the extendable handle makes transportation simple and efficient. However, this same handle sometimes has problems extending, so if you’re in a hurry, you may need something slightly more reliable. Don’t forget to also check our guide to the best wood axes.

Key Features:

Compartmentalized bins gives easy organization solution

Central locking system ensures security

Extendable handle is easy to drag when on the move

Sturdy polypropylene resin construction ensures durability

Specification:
  • BrandKeter
  • Model197481
  • Weight15 pounds

7
Akro-Mils ProBox Plastic Tool Box

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akro-mils 14” probox plastic tool box
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akro-mils probox plastic tool box
akro-mils 14” probox plastic tool box
akro-mils probox plastic tool box
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The Akro-Mils 14” ProBox Plastic Tool Box is a simple, no-nonsense design ideal for home improvement and quick repair jobs. It boasts an extra large tray to accommodate large tools, including jigsaws drills, which are protected with the oversized padlock eye in the steel latch.

The classic red color is bold, helping it stand out in a crowd of boring monochrome-colored options, and it’s not too large you’ll struggle to carry it around when full. To make this even easier, the handle is comfortable, even with heavy loads. It’s a lightweight tool box that may be short on cool features, but as long as it gets the job done, do you really care?

Key Features:

Extra large tray for optimized space and storage

Steel latch with oversized padlock eye guarantees security

Comfortable handle makes it easy to carry full loads

Chemical resistance keeps tools safe from damage

Specification:
  • BrandAkro-Mils
  • Model09514
  • Weight1.7 pounds

8
Waterloo Portable Series Tool Box

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waterloo portable series tool box
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The Waterloo Portable Series Tool Box is rugged and reliable, crafted with high-impact polypropylene to ensure longevity. Despite this construction, it’s still a highly portable tool box which makes it easy to carry around to your buddies’ or neighbor’s house should they ever need you to rescue them from their own basement.

Although some would consider it merely a plastic tool box, it performs just as effectively as (heavier) steel and aluminum options. The flush top design makes it easy to stack to increase storage, which is awesome for those building their tool collection, and the removable plastic tote tray keeps everything organized while you’re still using the basic tools. If you love DIY projects, check out our guide to the best band saw.

Key Features:

Removable plastic tote makes it easy to organize tools and small parts

Flush top allows easy stacking and storage

Comfort-grip handle is easy to carry with one hand between job sites

Rugged high-impact polypropylene construction

Specification:
  • BrandWaterloo
  • ModelPP-1406BK
  • Weight2 pounds

9
BOSTITCH Rolling Tool Box

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bostitch rolling tool box
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bostitch rolling tool box
bostitch rolling tool box
bostitch rolling tool box
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A large tool box but also one which isn’t too cumbersome to roll around from job to job, the BOSTITCH Rolling Tool Box is like a tool cabinet on wheels, and 7-inch full rubber wheels at that. The vast capacity gives ample room for tools and accessories, ensuring you have everything you need whatever the demands of the job, and you can organize this easily with the separate containers for fast access.

The built-in drawer slides smoothly using heavy duty ball bearings to deliver speedy results, even with heavy loads. This tool box can carry up to 70 pounds, which is enough for all the essentials and a little more just in case.

Key Features:

Separate into two parts for easy organization

7-inch full rubber wheels rolls easily over all terrains

Large capacity allows you to carry lots of tools and accessories

Heavy duty ball bearings ensure smooth and consistent sliding

Specification:
  • BrandBOSTITCH
  • ModelBTST19802
  • Weight6 pounds

10
Homak 3-Drawer Ball-Bearing Tool Chest

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homak 20” 3-drawer ball-bearing tool chest
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homak 20” 3-drawer ball-bearing tool chest
homak 20” 3-drawer ball-bearing tool chest
homak 20” 3-drawer ball-bearing tool chest
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Offering multiple compartments and convenience at a steal, the Homak 20” 3-Drawer Ball-Bearing Tool Box is a great option for easy, at-home tool storage, and wouldn’t look too out of place at the workshop either.

It provides four places to keep tools and bits, with the top part opening to increase storage, and the ball bearing operation glides easily out for straightforward retrieval. The double latch system keeps it securely closed when in transit, and the high grade materials ensure it won’t suffer any damage on the move, but if you don’t want to take it out, you don’t have to, and it makes a fantastic home tool box for casual repairmen. If you need to keep your tools really handy, check out our tool belts review and find your favorite.

Key Features:

Double latch system keeps lid securely closed in transit

Top area for greater storage options

Ball bearing glides on drawers make it easy to open and close

Constructed with high grade materials to provide durability

Specification:
  • BrandHomak
  • ModelRD01032101
  • Weight5.26 pounds

11
OEMTOOLS Tool Box with Removable Tool Tray

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oemtools 19” tool box with removable tool tray
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oemtools 19” tool box with removable tool tray
oemtools 19” tool box with removable tool tray
oemtools 19” tool box with removable tool tray
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Our final pick for the best tool storage box is the OEMTOOLS 19” Tool Box with Removable Tray, which is a fantastic small-parts organizer that provides easy access for the tricky accessories in your arsenal. These 3 sections come with dividers for further arranging, keeping you on top of everything even after a long day.

Inside, the spacious design gives plenty of room for larger, more essential tools, especially ones you use every day, and the removable tool tray gives you further options should you need them. It’s made from plastic, but the metal latches give you peace of mind for safe storage, so everything remains secure on site, on the go, or at home. You may also like to check our guide to the best work lights. 

Key Features:

Removable tool tray and built-in small parts organizer

Metal latches provide secure storage

Ergonomic handle makes it easy to carry and transport

Spacious interior allows space for everyday tools

Specification:
  • BrandOEMTOOLS
  • Model22179
  • Weight3.75 pounds

Tool Box Buying Guide And FAQ

Features To Look For In A Tool Box

Before deciding on your tool box, consider these key features to look out for to find the right tool box to suit your needs.

Storage Capacity - The larger the storage capacity, the more tools you can store (duh), and depending on the size of your collection, you must decide which size is right for you. You can determine this by the amount of tools you use, and which tools you’re likely to use on any one day.

Hobbyists are unlikely to need a mammoth-sized tool box, but professionals may need a large tool box to accommodate the number of tools they use, especially if they don’t enjoy emptying and filling to suit the demands of the job.

Size - The size of the tool box will affect how easy it is to store and transport. If you’re low on space in the workshop or garage, consider how important it is to buy a large tool box, it may not be necessary.

Weight - If you use a lot of tools on your job, a heavy tool box can cause fatigue if you need to carry it to and from the van and site. While not a major problem, it can be exhausting and if your tool box is too heavy, it catches up with you.

Portability - A mobile tool box with wheels will make portability easy as it reduces the strain on your arms and hands if you need to carry it. However, these rolling tool boxes can be large, so you may also be fine with smaller and easily portable tool boxes, especially for quick jobs where your large tool box isn’t necessary.

tools in a tool box

Material - The material of the tool box you choose will affect several factors. These include its portability and durability. An aluminium tool box is likely to be heavier than a plastic one, but still lighter than a steel one.

A metal tool box is perfect for smaller tool boxes, but for those who need a lot of storage capacity, polypropylene resin tool boxes may be better as they are more easily stacked and compatible with similar products.

Construction - A tool box with heavy duty construction will give you greater confidence to survive transport and demanding jobs. Reinforced corners are perfect for this as they can withstand dents and knocks tool boxes are bound to suffer.

You should also look for heavy duty handles, which are essential if you need to pack your tool box full of weighty tools and accessories. This prevents the handle snapping while walking to a job and causing you to show up with your tool box in your hands looking like someone who’s just picked it up along the side of the road.

Compartments - Compartments are essential for keeping everything organized and having fast access to tools and bits without rummaging through your tool box and wasting time. These compartments are built into the lid or found inside with a cantilevered tool box, or you can invest in a tool box with drawers, which is perhaps the best compartmental organization option around.

Locking Mechanism - No professional tool box is complete without a locking mechanism to keep your tools safe and secure when on the job. Some tool boxes will have a central locking system whereas others will have padlock eyes for keeping everything safe. If you use expensive tools (and we recommend you do), a locking mechanism is a must.

Waterproofness - Sometimes you can’t avoid the rain, so to keep your tools thoroughly protected from downpours. This prevents your tools suffering from rust and corrosion, keeping them in excellent condition. Waterproofness also ensures it is dust resistant, which can affect the operation of power tools should it get into the mechanism.

Durability - You expect a tool box to be durable, enough to survive the rigors of transport, work sites, and DIY jobs while also maintaining a good-looking appearance to further encourage you to take care of it. A stainless tool box will make it easier to maintain, but it could suffer dents if knocked around too much. Polypropylene construction can often prove more durable, but is not as easy to repair if damaged.

a tool box filled with tools

Types Of Tool Boxes

Boxes With Tote Trays - A basic tool box will come with a tote tray that sits at the top of the box. This small area gives you a place to store bits and frequently used tools and is removable for easy access to larger tools below.

Chests With Drawers - Tool chests with drawers are ideal for storing small parts on your desk for easy access. Depending on the size of the drawers, you can store frequently used tools such as screwdrivers and wrenches, and you can also label the drawers so you know where everything is.

Cantilevered Boxes - A cantilevered box is one with trays that protrude when opening the box and work on hinges. These give you greater storage options while also not taking up as much spacer as larger tool boxes would.

Stackable Boxes - Stackable boxes maximize your storage potential like no other type of tool box around. Specially designed products in the same range slot into each other so you don’t need to keep upgrading your tool box when you run out of space. These boxes also allow better organization.

a toolbox

Tool Box FAQ

Q: Who needs a toolbox?

A: Everyone, really. A tool box is not just something for professionals, and anyone can benefit from having a toolbox in their house. Even having a basic set of tools is convenient when something needs repairing in your home. While you may not need a large rolling tool box, something you can keep your tools and bits organized is useful.

Q: Which type should I choose?

A: The tool box you choose depends on what you will need it for. Those who need a tool box just to have a tool box will be fine with small tool boxes that have tote trays. Hobbyists may be better off with tool chests with drawers or cantilevered tool boxes as it offers greater storage potential without being too large.

If you’re a professional who’s on-the-go, then portable tool storage is a better idea, so consider stackable and rolling tool boxes. These are easy to transport and durable, with a variety of storage options for straightforward organization.

Sources:

  1. The Essential Home Tool Kit - Ideal Home
  2. Toolbox - Wikipedia
  3. Assemble a Basic Tool Kit - Lowe’s
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