Whatever DIY home improvement project or repair you have planned, you’ll need to start with a home tool kit with durable, high-quality essentials that are comfortable to use. Glenn Wiseman—RASDT, RHDT, and sales manager at Top Hat Home Comfort Services—tells us that the most useful tool kits include tools like hammers, screw drivers, and measuring tapes.
We researched kits from a variety of leading brands, including Craftsman and Husky, power tool manufacturers like Black + Decker and Ryobi, and others to find the best tool kits for every project around your home. We evaluated each tool kit based on the specific tools included, quality and durability, comfort, ease of use, functionality, and other factors to identify the best options.
Most of our favorite tool kits include basic hand tools, with specialized tools for specific tasks. However, you may also want an assortment of power tools, socket wrenches, and various other tools depending on the projects you like to tackle.
Best Overall
BLACK+DECKER 12V Max Drill 60-Piece Home Tool Kit
Excellent starter tool kit
Includes cordless drill
Includes selection of drill bits
Many of the screwdriver bits are duplicates
It’s hard to imagine any basic DIY project or household repair you couldn’t tackle with the Black + Decker 12V Max Drill 60-Piece Home Tool Kit. This handy tool kit contains not just the basic hand tools you’ll reach for most often, but also a cordless drill that's perfect for all sorts of tasks like hanging pictures, installing shelves, electrical work, mixing paint, and more.
We love the variety of tools included with this kit, which covers all the basics, including a hammer, screwdrivers, tape measure, pliers, wrench, ratcheting screwdriver with nut drivers, utility knife, and even a bubble level.
Unlike basic kits like our best value pick, this set also comes with a Black + Decker 12V Max Cordless Drill to help speed up a huge variety of household repairs, tasks, and projects. It even comes with 10 drill bits and 32 assorted screw-driving bits, which is a fantastic starter kit if you've never owned a drill and don't have any bits in your toolbox yet.
With this kit, you’ll make short work of assembling furniture, tightening screws, hanging pictures, fixing that drooping door or garden gate, and a whole bunch of other common tasks on your to-do list. These tools might not be of professional quality, but we think they are sturdy enough so that just about any average DIYer can rely on dependable performance, use after use.
We think this is the perfect tool kit for anyone just starting their tool collection, a new homeowner, or anyone who enjoys handling their own repairs around the house and garden. It even includes a charger and tool bag for easy storage.
Number of Pieces: 60 | Best Use: General purpose | Includes Case: Yes | Total Weight: 7.3 pounds
Best Value
Craftsman 57 Piece Mechanics Tool Set
Comfortable to grip
Compact case for easy storage
Lifetime warranty
Doesn't include a drill
We love this Craftsman tool set because it contains everything you need for basic home and car repairs, all in one sturdy, compact box. This high-quality set comes with a lifetime warranty from Craftsman, two screwdrivers (Phillips and flat head) with 21 bits, a tape measure, a hammer, hex keys, a utility knife, a rachet, and an 11-piece socket set.
The tools also have thoughtful features such as large size markings and comfortable grips. Plus, the included pliers are designed to help you work in tight spaces. While it would be nice if it included a drill, we think this set is a great value for both the quality and range of tools it provides.
Number of Pieces: 57 | Best Use: General purpose, basic auto repair | Includes Case: Yes | Total Weight: 7 pounds
Best Power Tools
RYOBI P1819 18V One+ Lithium Ion Combo Kit
Great starter set of power tools
Includes two batteries
Best for light to medium-duty jobs
Power tools are a must-have for tougher jobs, and the Ryobi 18-Volt One+ Lithium-Ion Cordless 6-Tool Combo Kit will help you tackle a wide range of tasks. The kit includes six popular power tools, two batteries, a charger, a bag, and several accessories—everything you need for a solid at-home workshop.
In this set, you’ll get an electric drill, impact driver, reciprocating saw, circular saw, multi-tool, and worklight, as well as a 1.5 Ah battery and 4 Ah battery. Because the tools are all part of the brand’s One+ platform, you can use the same batteries in all of them, as well as in other Ryobi One+ tools. The tools even come with a 3-year manufacturer’s warranty.
Number of Pieces: 10 | Best Use: General purpose | Includes Case: Yes | Total Weight: 8.8 pounds
Best Basic
Anvil Homeowner’s 76-Piece Tool Kit
Comprehensive collection of basic tools
Includes spring clamps
Study storage case
Not for complex DIY projects
If you are starting from scratch and just want all of the basics in one easy bundle, then you'll love the Anvil Home 76-Piece Tool Kit. This handy set of tools includes all of the essentials, such as a hammer, pliers, adjustable wrench, tape measure, screwdrivers, utility knife, level, and much more. It even includes four clamps, an unusual find in a home tool kit.
The kit includes a sturdy plastic storage case, which makes it easy to store in a closet, garage, or even under your bed. While you aren't going to carry out complex DIY projects with these tools, they are more than adequate for basic tasks and repairs around your home, such as tightening loose screws, hanging pictures, tackling minor plumbing repairs, or putting up curtain rods. There's even a bottle opener so you can enjoy a cold beverage once your project is complete.
Number of Pieces: 76 | Best Use: General purpose | Includes Case: Yes | Total Weight: Not specified
Best for Gardening
Jardineer 11-Piece Gardening Tool Kit
Handy tote bag
Rust-resistant
Perfect for container gardens or small garden beds
Gloves may not fit
Bag is soft and doesn't stand up
The Jardineer Garden Tool Set is ideal for both novice and experienced gardeners. It includes 11 essential pieces for container garden, houseplant, or small garden bed maintenance, including a garden trowel, transplanter, weeder, cultivator, hand rake, garden gloves, pruning shears, and more. Plus, it all fits in a rugged tote bag that you can carry out into the yard.
These gardening tools are made from polished aluminum to resist rust, and they feature ergonomic handles to reduce fatigue and discomfort during long gardening sessions. We think it's a great set for gardeners of all skill levels, with a nice selection of tools, although we will note that the gloves are pretty large and may not fit everyone comfortably.
The tote bag has five external pockets surrounding the spacious inner compartment that provides plenty of room for any other tools you want to add. We wish the bag was sturdy enough to stand up on its own, but you can cut a piece of cardboard to fit (or slide in a small bucket if you have one the right size) to fix that.
Number of Pieces: 8 | Best Use: Gardening or houseplant care | Includes Case: Yes | Total Weight: 4.2 pounds
Best for Mechanics
Husky 194-Piece Mechanics Tool Set
Everything needed for basic auto work
Chrome-vanadium steel
Stamped size markings
Might be more comprehensive than you need
If you plan to work on your car, you’ll need a quality mechanics tool set, such as this 194-piece kit from Husky. Designed for both professionals and DIYers, this kit is extremely comprehensive with quick-release ratchets in three sizes, 125 sockets, 14 combination wrenches, numerous drive sockets, and so much more.
The tools in this kit are forged from chromium-vanadium for unbeatable strength, and they have a polished chrome finish that you can easily wipe clean. They have large, hard-stamped size markings to help you quickly find the tool you need, and the plastic storage case has size markings, as well.
We also like that Husky offers other sizes of this kit, from a 75-piece kit, all the way up to a 290-piece kit, so you can find the right one for your needs (and budget).
Number of Pieces: 194 | Best Use: Auto repair and maintenance | Includes Case: Yes | Total Weight: 24.7 pounds
Best for Bicycles
Cyclists 23-in-1 Bike Tool Kit
Comprehensive set of tools
Sturdy plastic case
Some tools might not be compatible with all bikes
Avid bike riders know the importance of having a comprehensive tool kit for maintenance, repairs, and adjustments. With the Cyclists 23-in-1 Bike Tool Kit, you'll get just about everything you need to help you maintain, clean, adjust, and repair your bicycle for everyday use. Plus, it includes a sturdy plastic case to keep everything neatly organized and ready for use.
What will you find in this kit? Tools include a chain rivet extractor, chain ring nut wrench, and metal tire lever, as well as screwdrivers, chain tools, a pedal wrench, a spoke wrench, pre-glued patch kits, and more. With these tools and some knowledge, there aren't too many bicycle repairs you won't be able to manage on your own, as well as tuning up your bike and performing regular maintenance.
Just keep in mind that not all of the tools will fit different types of bikes, so you may find yourself having to buy an additional tool or two for some repairs.
Number of Pieces: 23 | Best Use: Bicycle repair and maintenance | Includes Case: Yes | Total Weight: 6.5 pounds
Best Deluxe
DEWALT 20-Volt MAX 10-Tool Cordless Combo Kit
Includes two sturdy contractor bags
Covers all common DIY needs
Includes two batteries
Doesn't include basic hand tools
If you’re ready to move beyond hand tools and want to add some serious power, versatility, and convenience to your home tool collection, you can’t go wrong with the Dewalt 20-Volt Max 10-Tool Cordless Combo Kit. Although pricey, this deluxe set provides just about everything you need for a well-stocked power tool collection.
You’ll get one each of the following: 20V Max XR oscillating multi-tool, 20V Max 1/2-Inch compact drill driver, 20V Max 1/4-Inch impact driver, 20V Max compact jobsite blower, 20V Max circular saw, 20V Max reciprocating saw, 20V Max 4-1/2-inch grinder, LED work light, wet/dry vacuum, and a jobsite Bluetooth speaker. That’s a whole lot of tools ready and able to tackle just about any DIY project you throw at them.
The set also includes two 20-volt lithium-ion batteries, a charger, and two handy contractor’s bags to keep everything portable and together.
Number of Pieces: 15 | Best Use: Advanced DIY, general purpose | Includes Case: Yes | Total Weight: 37 pounds
Final Verdict
We love the Black + Decker 12V Max Drill 60-Piece Home Tool Kit, our pick for the best home tool kit, for its comprehensive collection of basic hand tools plus a compact cordless drill and accompanying bits. There’s not much you can’t accomplish around the house with this handy and high quality set of tools. But if you’re looking for a tool kit that’s all about power, we recommend the Ryobi 18-Volt ONE+ Cordless 6-Tool Combo Kit instead.
What to Look for in a Home Tool Kit
Choose the Tools You'll Use
Some tool kits are better suited for more experienced users. If you’re a beginner, you’re probably better off with a basic kit, and then adding to that as you tackle new projects (or buying specialized tool kits when you need them).
As a general rule, Glenn Wiseman—RASDT, RHDT, and sales manager at Top Hat Home Comfort Services—specifies that “The most useful tools for those who want to tackle basic repairs on their own are a hammer, an assortment of nails and screws, a stud finder, an adjustable wrench, a measuring tape, a set of screwdrivers, pliers, a manual or laser level, a flashlight, a utility knife, a pair of wire cutters, and an extension cord.”
Our best value pick includes many of those tools, which is why we think it's a good place to start if you aren't sure what you need. With those tools in your basic home repair tool kit, you can tackle a surprisingly large list of tasks around your home. Other items you might want to add to your basic kit include a flashlight, duct tape, a level, pencils, and painter's tape.
If you have more experience working around the house, you may want to look for more advanced tools to supplement your existing arsenal, such as specialized screwdrivers, a small hand saw, putty, and utility knives, or laser level. If your aim is to work on your car, you'll need an option like our best for mechanics pick that includes a socket set and wrenches.
Home improvement enthusiasts and DIYers can benefit from a variety of other tools, like a cordless drill that can simplify a multitude of projects around the home, including hanging pictures, mixing paint (with the right attachment), and performing a variety of repairs. Our best overall pick includes a cordless drill along with other essential tools.
The Right Tools for Your Project
If you aren't sure what sort of projects you'll be tackling, then it's a good idea to at least have a tool kit on hand like our best value pick that covers the basics. If you have particular tasks or projects in mind, then you'll want to identify a tool kit that includes more specific tools (and even consider adding some extras like a stud finder or laser level that aren't found in many kits).
Here are some things you might use a home tool kit for:
- Plumbing: You’ll need tools like an adjustable wrench, screwdriver, for repairs like fixing a leaky faucet or replacing a toilet flapper. Our best basic pick has most of what you’ll need, but make sure to pick up some plumber’s tape. Some jobs may require a pipe wrench or other specialized tools as well.
- Carpentry: For tasks like hanging shelves, replacing a door handle, or building a bookshelf, you’ll need tools like a drill, level, tape measure, screwdriver, saw, and hammer. Our best overall pick has everything you need for smaller tasks and repairs, and our best power tools pick has the power saws you’ll need for big projects.
- Electrical: If you’re comfortable with minor electrical projects and repairs, our best overall pick has you covered for basics like screwdrivers and a drill, but you’ll also need a wire cutter/stripper and a voltage tester.
- Automotive: To perform basic repairs on your car, you’ll need sockets and wrenches, screw drivers, hex bits, all of which you’ll find in our best for mechanics pick, along with a test light or multimeter.
- Yard work and gardening: Tools like a shovel or trowel, rake, hoe, spade, and hand weeder can come in handy, as can power tools like a leaf blower, lawn mower, and line trimmer. Our best for gardening pick includes a useful assortment of hand tools for weeding, planting, pruning, and many other tasks.
High-Quality Tools That Last
The sort of consumer-grade tools you're likely to add to your home tool kit won't have the same quality or durability as professional-grade tools, but it's still important to choose tools that will last (and won't break while you're using them.) Our overall best home tool kit recommendation includes durable carbon steel hand tools, bits, and sockets, and a drill that's rugged enough for extensive home use.
For an even more durable option that comes closer to professional grade, look for hand tools, bits, and sockets made from chrome vanadium steel like our best for mechanics pick. Tools made from a chromium-vanadium steel alloy are remarkably durable while remaining more affordable than the alloys used in professional tools (but more expensive than tools that use lower-grade, weaker alloys).
Storing the Tools When Not in Use
Even though it's not the most important factor to consider when buying a tool kit, you should think about how much space it will take up in your home. If you’re living in a small apartment, a kit with several hundred pieces will take up a solid chunk of your storage space and rarely come in useful.
On the other hand, if you have a whole garage to dedicate to your tools, and enjoy tackling repairs around the house, assembling furniture, maintaining your own car or motorcycle, or just want to be prepared for anything, it's worth buying a comprehensive kit with all the tools you are likely to need.
Why Trust The Spruce?
Michelle Ullman is a writer for The Spruce. She has extensive experience not only in writing about all things related to the home, but also in carrying out various DIY projects, including landscaping, painting, flooring, wallpapering, furniture makeovers, and simple repairs.
For this story about the best home tool kits, she considered dozens of options, evaluating each for basic features, extras, and feedback from customers.
Our Experts:
- Glenn Wiseman, RASDT, RHDT, and sales manager at Top Hat Home Comfort Services
- Jeremy Laukkonen, updates writer at The Spruce