Kobalt VS Craftsman Hand Tools
The following Kobalt vs Craftsman review is designed to offer sufficient information for professionals and car enthusiasts looking for the best set of tools to assist with their vehicle repairs. Both Kobalt and Craftsman represent significant brands in this industry, with the former gaining some headway in terms of the number of options available with their toolsets.
Working on your vehicle is an activity that can be quite fulfilling once the results are out. However, you’ll require a proper set of tools to act as your sidekick if you’re to get anything done. Finding an alternative with all the necessary parts is essential to your success.
Kobalt and Craftsman have long been identified as two of the leading suppliers of these products. Taking a closer look at both alternatives is a great way of determining the most effective option for your needs. Though they both represent ideal solutions for mechanics, one of their unique aspects can be the game-changer you need for specific situations. This Kobalt vs. Craftsman review can assist you in recognizing such small differences.
Differences between Kobalt vs. Craftsman Tool Sets – How do they compare?
| Model | Kobalt | Craftsman |
| Number of pieces | 227 | 300 |
| Universal Joint | No | Yes |
| Weight | 32 pounds | 36.9 pounds |
| No skip collection | No | Yes |
| Check on Amazon | Check price | Check price |
Kobalt vs Craftsman: What is the Difference?
Tool Variety
Fixing your car can require a large number of tools, especially when dealing with various problems over an extended period of time. Owning a toolset that boasts a wide variety of alternatives in this category can also be a great asset when working on different vehicles. You would be surprised how one single tool can bring an entire project to a halt due to its absence.
Kobalt, for example, comes with a five-piece wrench collection for both Metric and SAE designs. The metric side includes 8, 9, 10, 12, and 13 mm alternatives. Their smaller sockets are available in sizes 5, 6, 8, 10, and 11 mm. As you can tell, from these lists, the Kobalt tools tend to skip a few numbers along the way. This is not an issue found with craftsman options, so if you’re looking for a flowing list, you might do well to try the latter.
Tool Availability
The ease with which you can acquire a particular alternative also plays a significant role in measuring their suitability for your needs. Kobalt products are primarily provided in Lowes stores across the country, with independent retailers rarely an option as a source.
Craftsman’s full line is also exclusively found in the same stores, but they also have a range of other items that can be bought at alternative outlets. As such, it can be argued that replacing one item from your set will be a bit easier when dealing with craftsman tools as compared to their counterparts.
Handling and Design
Both Kobalt and Craftsman tools are incorporated with a chrome finish to prevent potential rusting and enhance their longevity. Kobalt options, however, offer a sturdier option about quality and durability.
Some of the Craftsman tools are a bit too brittle, meaning they could break when subjected to high exertion levels.
Kobalt drivers also have an interchangeable feature on their heads, allowing you to fit different bit sizes. These bits are connected via a magnetic feature, which is stable enough to ensure they don’t fall off during work.
However, their ratchets are a bit too bulky, making it nearly impossible to work in small spaces comfortably. The handle is also a bit too short.
Labeling and Identification
Generally, two units are implemented with the definition of these tools: SAE and metric. If you are a fan of traveling the world to work on vehicles or are located in an area that uses a different system from the USA format regarding measurement units – then getting a Kobalt toolkit would be a good idea.
Craftsman tools are generally labeled via SAE units but have a small range of metric options. The tools in the Kobalt set are also arranged to match Metric and SAE bits of similar sizes. With one row directly correlating to its unit’s counterpart figured below.
Warranties
Kobalt and Craftsman offer strong warranties with the purchase of their original products. This ensures that any mishaps, such as missing tools or damaged boxes, can be easily remedied.
However, Kobalt’s process may be a little more complex than its counterpart’s. They might require an individual to contact the manufacturer and not the store from which it was gained in some cases.
Craftsman have a better track record of providing these services within a shorter span of time. You are guaranteed a positive response from both providers, nonetheless.
Kobalt vs. Craftsman Toolset Review – Pros and Cons
Kobalt Tools
If you’re looking for great quality at an affordable price, then Kobalt tools can be ideally suited for your needs. This tool set comes packaged in a secure toolbox containing spacious shelves with clear markings.
The tool drawer also has an empty bottom drawer that allows you to store any additional tools you need. Unfortunately, the latches on the box are a bit weak and can easily get damaged with the slightest mishandling.
The set comes with a packet of midget wrenches and allen keys for both metric and SAE projects, which can be useful when handling delicate work in confined spaces. The collection features a small number of wrenches, but the items in this category represent the man sizes used in most auto repair jobs, ranging from 8 – 13 mm for metric and ¼” to 9/16” for imperial work.
Their drivers are equipped with a handle featuring an ergonomic design that makes them more comfortable. A small hole at the top of the handle can hang the tool on a rack should you want to move it from the box set for faster access. They also contain 5/8” and 13/16” spark plug sockets with a hex design, which are great for getting into tight spaces.
The labeling and arrangement of the tools allow for easy identification by the user. Smaller sockets integrated with keyless designs are available, ranging from 5 – 11 mm on the metric side and 7/32” to 7/16” on the SAE side.
Their drivers also come with an interchangeable feature that allows you to use different-sized bits without flooding your workspace with available options. The bits connect with a magnetic feature that allows for faster switches when working with different sizes.
Pros
- Ergonomic designs that allow for a firmer but more comfortable for the user
- Empty bottom drawer providing additional storage
- Implementation of both SAE and Metric systems
Cons
- Bulky ratchets that are not suitable for work in small spaces
- The toolbox can be susceptible to damage when subjected to medium-strong impact
Craftsman Tools
One of the first things you notice about the packaging is that the toolbox has a sturdy design that will not fall apart if mishandled. The design also incorporates a latching system on the sides that keep the drawers in check and will not allow them to slip open during movement.
The molded spaces within, however, are not always precise, which can lead to some small tools falling out of the box is moved too roughly.
The drivers offer the owner two options for fixing different bit sizes onto the head. Thanks to the hex key fitted on the end, one can use the detached bits available with the collection. You can also use actual driving portions if you’re not a big fan of the former alternative.
These are screwed onto the head in a matter of seconds and provide a steady base for your work. The portions come in different sizes ranging from 8 to 12 mm. One of the best things about the range on offer is that they feature a no-skip module that ensures you get all the sizes in between the largest and smallest options available.
The designs of these tools feature a minimal arc swing, which is great for working in confined spaces. The entire collection comes equipped with 15 drive tools, 16 combination wrenches, and 79 specialization tools, to name a few.
The shelves within the drawer can be easily removed from its case to make weapons at the back easier to access.
Pros
- Easily accessible through several outlets
- Presence of a universal joint to allow for a more flexible application system
- Strong and sturdy toolbox design with reliable latches
Cons
- The kit is heavier than some alternatives in the market
- The ½” collection only features shallow socket options
The Final Verdict
Though both options represent good value for money and are excellent for mobile mechanic work, Kobalt toolkits look the better option due to the quality involved. Kobalt also boasts higher levels in terms of design and handling, thanks to the inclusion of an ergonomic perspective.
The main issue with this option lies with the weak toolbox, which is better than dealing with weak tools (which is (was) the case with the new craftsman designs).
Craftsman might be suitable for such light work if you’re looking for a simple to store in your vehicle for emergency cases. However, if you’re looking to use these tools fairly regularly, Kobalt is definitely what you should go with.
Looking at reviews of the tools the Craftsman tools are very highly rated and well liked. Your choice should fall on the number of tools you need and some homework on your behalf to see if there are any issues from those who have owned the tool set you are looking to buy.
