The essential sizes were all present, backed by deep and spark plug options, although the shiny and smooth finish on the sockets is not the best to handle with greasy hands. There is also a T-bar adapter, but only a 150mm extension to use it with. Sizing wasn’t a problem, although the ratchet handle began to bend at around the 200Nm mark, which, alongside the steep price, compromised its chances of victory.
Jefferson 36pc ⅜” Drive Socket Set JEFSOC013
Like the Simply set, price counts against the Jefferson when compared with the more widely available brands.
That’s hard to overcome when the set is so similar to other items being tested as part of this comparison. The ratchet is much like our winner, with 72 teeth and a hand-friendly dual-compound grip. The shiny finish is not ideal with oily hands but knurled bands on the sockets help. It is, though, the only set here with square-drive hex bits, which will appeal to some.
Magnusson 40pc Standard Socket Set
- Price: around £43
- Rating: 3 stars
- Contact: screwfix.com
Two key factors prevented Screwfix repeating its test win from 2022. First of all, a price increase of almost £10 removes one of its core advantages, but more concerning was the 13mm socket starting to slip at around 100Nm, which is close to what can be achieved by hand. Our increased focus on versatility also played a part, because unlike other kits in this contest, the Magnusson set lacks a choice of deep or spark plug sockets, although it does come with a handful of screwdriver bits that may prove useful.
Ryobi 20pc Ratchet and Socket Set
Ryobi may be best known for power tools, and its 20-piece socket set was always going to find it tough against bigger rivals. This collection is more something to keep in the boot than rely on for heavy-duty jobs. What you get is good quality, with a case containing clearly marked sockets, and an easy-on-the-palms handle on
the 90-tooth ratchet. But these are not enough to overcome the lack of deep and plug sockets, and extensions, or the price.
Did you know you can sell your car through Auto Express? We’ll help you get a great price and find a great deal on a new car, too.
