Own any collection of tools and you’ll need somewhere to store them properly. Step forward, the robust and dependable toolbox.
There is plenty to dissect in terms of the right toolbox, but there’s nothing ground-breaking to say concerning the concept as a whole. They’re a secure place to store, transport, or organise your tools, ready for your car care and general DIY jobs. The end. If you use tools, you’ll enjoy the benefits a toolbox offers.
What we at Parkers wish to do is whittle down the best toolboxes from a range of subcategories, including budget toolboxes, tool bags, and modular toolbox systems. Anyone who’s attempted to buy a toolbox will be aware of the mountain of options available.
The best toolboxes
Editor's pick
It’s all things to most tool users, being large enough to house a host of hand tools and even a couple of smaller power tools, such as a cordless drill. Yet, it stays within reasonable dimensions and remains portable.
The Fatmax Waterproof Toolbox is also tough and secure, without going overboard. It’s IP53 rated, meaning it can keep moisture out if it starts raining, and has a very rugged, strong design. Also, the metal latches can be locked with a padlock.
Pros
- Good value
- Water-resistant
- ¾-lenth tote tray
Cons
- Maybe overkill for some
| <strong>Dimensions </strong> | 71 x 30.8 x 28.5cm |
Best value
It’s smaller than the Fatmax but still capacious enough for hand tools and a cordless drill. We like that the Sealey toolbox includes a tote tray and a pair of flip-lid organisers on top for bits and fasteners. It’s still lockable too. Naturally, with a cheaper toolbox, the Sealey is a bit plasticky but for casual DIYers who are gentle with it, it’ll last the distance.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Lockable
- Tote tray included
Cons
- Not the toughest toolbox
| <strong>Dimensions </strong> | 49 x 24 x 24cm |
Best small toolbox
In an ironic twist, this toolbox isn’t that tough or macho. The MaxPower toolbox is an affordable, lightweight, and relatively compact toolbox ideal for DIYers who are going to be carting it around.
It’s quite similar to the Sealey toolbox because it’s quite plasticky but is still lockable and features organisers on the lid. Inside, a tote tray is included.
Pros
- Great value
- Compact
- Tote tray included
Cons
- A bit flimsy
| <strong>Dimensions </strong> | 36 x 16 x 18 cm |
Best tool bag
Stanley slides in again with a winner. Its Open Mouth Tool Bag is affordable, well designed, and tough. The base is solid plastic, which is far more abrasion-resistant than fabric, and the zipped compartment opens wide. However, there are also small pockets on the outside for pliers and such.
Pros
- Excellent accessibility
- Durable
- Portable
Cons
- Toolboxes are more secure
| <strong>Dimensions </strong> | 44.7 x 27.5 x 23.5cm |
Best cantilever toolbox
The cantilever barn toolbox from Draper is bulky and heavy, but in return, it’s very solid, secure, and spacious. Like a tool bag, it also provides great accessibility to all its contents.
Pros
- Spacious
- Aesthetically pleasing barn style
- Will last a lifetime
Cons
- Not very portable
| <strong>Dimensions </strong> | 46 x 33.5 x 25.7cm |
Best stackable toolbox system
Like the Stanley toolbox, the DeWalt ToughSystem boxes are made from structural foam with metal latches and hinges, but improve on the Stanley’s IP rating of IP53, increasing it to IP65. Each box can take a maximum load of 50 kilograms.
In making the ToughSystem mobile, there is the DS Carrier. Load, stack, and lock the ToughSystem boxes onto this trolley and you can wheel them around very easily.
Pros
- Expandable modular system
- Portable
- Very robust
Cons
- Big
| <strong>Dimensions</strong> | Varies depending on the boxes you choose. |
What you should look for in a toolbox
Budget is usually the biggest influential factor and consideration. But before you set a firm budget, first think about other features, such as:
• size – big enough for all your tools, and possibly with room to grow your selection
• ruggedness – a strong wall will make sure there are no cracks and bashes from accidental drops and knocks
• security – a pass-through for padlocks or attaching to a ground anchor, just in case you need to leave it anywhere
You want your toolbox to fulfil your specific demands and swallow your tools otherwise your investment ends up being a waste of time. If it means spending a little more upfront, that’s probably worthwhile if it results in a more suitable toolbox, and will be cheaper over the longer term too.
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