The 10 Best Ratchet Screwdrivers

Editor's Notes

December 09, 2020:

For this update, we removed our two Craftsman models, the Craftsman 9-41796 and Craftsman 47144 due to availability issues.

We also removed the Milwaukee 48-22-2301, due to its high price and the fact that it’s similar to several other models on our list. Similarly, we removed the DeWalt DWHT69233, another somewhat redundant model, and replaced it with a stubby-style option, the Klein Tools 32593. This compact model doesn’t take up much space, but can come in really handy in tight spaces like behind appliances, or inside mechanical equipment.

Something that's great about these ratchet screwdrivers, is that they’re all also multi-bit drivers. Having the ability to switch out different sizes and types of bits allows you to be ready for a wide variety of fasteners, but also means you don’t need to lug around an entire screwdriver set. This can be incredibly convenient when you’re on top of a ladder, in a crawlspace, or anywhere else you can’t bring your entire tool kit with you.

That being said, there are some instances and certain professions that do need entire sets handy, in which case this collection of magnetic screwdriver sets should provide you with a good amount of options. If you’re an electrician, or work around a lot of wiring, one of these insulated screwdriver sets could be a better choice.

December 09, 2020:

We replaced our two Craftsman models, the Craftsman 9-41796 and Craftsman 47144 with an updated model, the Craftsman CMHT68001.

We also removed the Milwaukee 48-22-2301, due to its high price and the fact that it’s similar to several other models on our list. Similarly, we removed the DeWalt DWHT69233, another somewhat redundant model, and replaced it with a stubby-style option, the Klein Tools 32593. This compact model doesn’t take up much space, but can come in really handy in tight spaces like behind appliances, or inside mechanical equipment.

Something thats great about these ratchet screwdrivers, is that they’re all also multi-bit drivers. Having the ability to switch out different sizes and types of bits allows you to be ready for a wide variety of fasteners, but also means you don’t need to lug around an entire screwdriver set. This can be incredibly convenient when you’re on top of a ladder, in a crawlspace, or anywhere else you can’t bring your entire tool kit with you.

That being said, there are some instances and certain professions that do need entire sets hand, in which case this collection of magnetic screwdriver sets should provide you with a good amount of options. If you’re an electrician, or work around a lot of wiring, one of these insulated screwdriver sets could be a better choice.

August 01, 2019:

We removed the No Cry Stubby because of issues with quality and availability. We added the Wera Kraftform Kompakt 27 because Wera makes quality screwdrivers and the 27 is no exception. It is made to last with an all metal ratcheting mechanism and a comfortable handle. The pawl engages with little travel and there is virtually no backlash.

We shifted the DeWalt DWHT69233 and the Irwin Tools 8-in-1 because they have proven to employ long-lived designs and use better quality plastics on their handles. The Tacklife HRSB1A has been demoted because of its clunky design that uses enormous teeth. This means that you can't ratchet effectively within confined spaces because you won't be able to pull the handle back enough to engage the next tooth.

Using tools can be dangerous and proper safety precautions should be observed to avoid personal injury or damage to property.