Last Updated on July 21, 2026 by Stewart
Much like other tools, ratchets are a great addition to any toolbox. However, they are not all created equal and as such, it’s important to fully research one before spending money on it.
To that end, I’ve tested numerous ratchets both in the 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch variety so that you can have the best possible information on which one you should pick up. It should be noted that adaptors can also be purchased to allow different sized sockets to be used with the ratchets listed below.
I have spent several months testing these ratchets to get the best possible opinion of them before summarising my findings below.
GearWrench 1/2 Inch Drive 84 Tooth Ratchet
GearWrench are well known for their excellent quality, and this 1/2 inch drive ratchet is no exception to the rule. Off the bat, I really liked how substantial it feels in the hand, without it being unwieldy. It’s modestly priced at just under £45, but it feels a lot more expensive than that.
That ratchet itself has 84 teeth in it meaning that you get a really smooth action from it as well as a low arc swing at 4.3°. I’ve used this in tight spots and was able to complete the task in a short turn around tight thanks to the 84 tooth drive on it.
One area that is important to talk about is the quality of the on off switch as this can sometimes be the downfall on ratchets. The switch on the GearWrench is incredibly smooth every time I have used it.
Over the months of testing, I didn’t feel any slackness in the ratchet from overuse which is another huge plus point. It should be noted that it doesn’t come with any sockets, so that is something you would also need to invest in.
If you’re needing a 1/2 inch drive, I highly recommend the 84 tooth driver from GearWrench.
- Teardrop shaped head and flush-mounted on/off switch allow even more access in tight spaces
Last update on 2026-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
Wera 8100 SB Zyklop Speed 3/8 Inch Ratchet
So that’s a bit of a mouthful for this Wera ratchet. I’ll point out right away that this is fairly expensive, with it usually sitting at the £120 mark. However, this is quite a special ratchet set. For starterts, you get a high quality Wera ratchet that has a very impressive 5° swing on it meaning that you get a great movement each time from it. It only has 72 teeth in the drive, but this is more than enough to get a great finish each and every time.
It is a very efficient ratchet that really makes the task very quick. In addition to this is the fact that the head of the ratchet can pivot, as opposed to other ratchets that are in a fixed position. For me, this really did make the increase in price over other 3/8 inch ratchets worth it. The reason for this is that you can easily manipulate it into tighter spots.
However, also included with the ratchet is a set of 3/8 sockets. These are 10, 12, 13, 15, 16 18 and 19mm. In addition to this, there are also 16 screwdriver bits included. The reason for this is that that ratchet also has an attachment in it to turn it into a ratcheting screwdriver. This is a really great addition, and turns it into a mult-use tool.
Overall, the build quality of the ratchet as well as the attached sockets and bits is amazing. I was actually surprised about the price of this, and would have expected it to be more expensive than it is. If you need a high quality 3.8” ratchet and also want high quality sockets with it, the Wera is definitely the choice for you.
- Fine-tooth design allows a small return angle of 5°
Last update on 2026-10-14 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API As an Amazon Associate, I earn a commission from qualifying purchases.
WorkPro 1/4 Inch Ratchet and Socket Set
I really like WorkPro tools due to them being modestly priced, but also high quality. Due to this, I was curious to see how this performed since it was just under £!6. I’m pleased to say that this 1/4” performed really well for the tasks I threw at it. The ratchet feels very well made, and the soft handle has a great grip to it. I was pleasantly surprised with the switch on it, and the release button is very smooth. Similarly, it didn’t drop the sockets whilst in use, which is something that I have happen to me whilst using ratchets at a similar price.
It has 72 teeth in it, and I was able to carry out the work fairly quickly when using it. The additional sockets were also a welcome surprise, and they did a good job. They come in 4, 4.5, 5, 5.5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12 and 13mm sizes. In addition to this, there was also an extension bar included with it which is great value for money.
It is a budget ratchet so I would be mindful about using this in heavy work environments. However, it you’re needing a ratchet set for small tasks around the house and you’re on a tight budget, this is definitely the ratchet you should opt for.