Best Torque Wrench for 2022

The EPAuto torque wrench is an easy recommendation. A click wrench unit, you set the desired proper torque and start tightening in a clockwise direction. When the preset torque measurement amount is reached, it clicks to let you know. For added versatility, it works between 10 and 80 lb.-ft., which makes it ideal for a large number of tasks, automotive and otherwise. For added versatility, this click torque wrench has a 3/8-inch drive size end, meaning it fits midsize sockets, though it also comes with an extension, but that's not all. Two adapters are included, too, allowing you to use 1/4-inch and 1/2-inch sockets as well.

Ensuring the EPAuto torque wrench lasts, it's made from a hardened, chrome vanadium steel alloy. It also comes with a plastic storage case. Making this product a cinch to use, its adjustment knob, which easily turns to change how much torque it applies, is clearly labeled in both foot-pounds and Newton meters, plus it has a knurled handle so you don't slip, even if your hands are greasy or dirty. You could do a lot worse than this EPAuto torque wrench, which costs just $23 and has a 4.5-star rating out of 5 stars after more than 2,300 user reviews.

The next torque wrench on this list is burlier and more expensive than the EPAuto model listed above, but it's still very reasonably priced and even more versatile. The Lexivon unit highlighted here features a 1/2-inch drive end and is a click type torque wrench. Like many other torque wrenches, its adjustment barrel features a knurled handle for a nonslip ergonomic grip and its numbers are clearly marked -- a high-contrast yellow over black. This is a pretty stylish click torque wrench!

But looks are irrelevant; functionality is what counts, and this mechanical torque wrench unit offers plenty. It operates from 25 lb.-ft. up to a whopping 250 lb.-ft. of torque range. This gives you a huge torque setting range to work with, making it great for heavy-duty applications from engine and front-end service to tightening the lug nuts on a commercial truck. For added versatility, Lexivon offers several other torque-wrench models with 1/4-, 3/8- and 1/2-inch drive ends. This unit is super versatile and affordable to boot, at just $56. But the icing on the cake is this product's 4.7-star rating after nearly 2,000 customer reviews.

Quality costs money. If you want the best, be prepared to spend more. Case in point: The Gearwrench ½-inch drive digital torque wrench. Sure, it's expensive, but that's money well spent if your livelihood depends on a torque tool like this or if precision is paramount. Having personally used Gearwrench products myself, it makes great stuff, so you shouldn't be disappointed. This tool's operating torque range is between 20 to 250 lb.-ft., plus it should be accurate to within about 3% for the jobs that require precise torque.

But are digital torque wrenches better? The short answer is yes and no. They're easier to use and arguably more accurate, but tend to cost more. Setting this product apart from the other torque wrenches highlighted here, it is electronic. Rather than a clicking mechanism or a bar that bends as you apply force, it features circuits and sensors. You easily set the desired torque level using a series of buttons and the handle vibrates, a buzzer sounds and an LED shines when you reach that target torque amount, so there's no excuse for over-tightening any fasteners. For extra flexibility, it can be set in lb.-ft., Nm, kgf-m and kg-cm. Keeping this precision instrument safe and secure, it comes with a plastic carrying case. This Gearwrench torque wrench's 4.6-star rating doesn't hurt, either.

If value is important and simplicity a top priority, consider this Tooluxe beam torque wrench (gotta love a punny name). This type of torque wrench is less convenient to use than either the click torque wrench or digital counterparts, but they are cheaper and dead simple. With no settings or mechanisms to deal with, you simply tighten fasteners in a clockwise direction while observing the indicator. When it points at the desired torque setting, you're all set.

This beam wrench is 18 inches long and operates from a torque value of zero to 150 lb.-ft. Made of steel for long-haul durability, it's treated to a bright chrome finish that will look good in anyone's toolbox. For added versatility, it comes with a 1/2-inch drive end plus a 3/8-inch adapter. For less than 25 bucks, you can't go wrong here.

Thanks to its blend of versatility, value and excellent user reviews, this Tekton 1/2-inch drive torque wrench is our best overall recommendation. This clicking-type torque wrench can accurately tighten fasteners anywhere from 10 lb.-ft. to 150 lb.-ft. of torque value. It's made of durable steel, comes with a storage case, has easy-to-read scales and features a reversible ratchet head that drives in both directions, handy if you ever need to tighten something with a left-hand thread.

Another benefit of this Tekton torque wrench is precision. It's accurate to +/- 4%, which is hard to argue with. As for pricing, you can own all this goodness for less than $50. And if buyer ratings are any indication, it should work extremely well, having earned a 4.7-star score from more than 7,000 reviews.

Finally, if you need a torque wrench but don't have a place to put one, consider a digital torque adapter, like this nifty ACDelco unit. This tool clips onto the end of a ½-inch-drive socket wrench you already have, so you don't have to make room in your toolbox for another piece of hardware. Like the Gearwrench one listed above, this tool is digital. It can also be set between 25 and 250 lb.-ft. of set torque. When the desired torque is reached, three LEDs illuminate and an audible sound chimes, a digital way of saying, "Whoa there, partner. That's enough."

A precision piece of hardware, this tool is so accurate, the manufacturer says it can be used to calibrate other torque wrenches. For added peace of mind, this ACDelco tool comes with a one-year warranty and is highly rated. Not too shabby for $60. If you need a 3/8-inch-drive torque adapter, the company offers one as well, priced at $50.