Skip advert
Advertisement

Socket sets

A decent selection of sockets is vital for DIY jobs on the car. We pick the best from 12 sets

Using the British Standard, we tested each set's 10mm socket to 1.5 times the required limit - around 85lb/ft. The extension and ratchet were taken to just over 122lb/ft. We looked for a range of standard height and deep tools; our sets included Imperial AF, metric TRX star and spline sockets. Ratchet action and number of teeth, plus socket thickness and accessories, were also rated.

Verdict

Yamoto's Best Buy has the perfect blend of strength, extras and a good AF and metric range in standard and deep sockets. And all for less than £50! Much the same can be said of the Recommended Sealey - but the higher price and smaller size count relegates it to second. The Franklin set is tough and well designed, yet its rather steep cost drops it into third place.

Advertisement - Article continues below

1. Yamoto YMT-582-6200K
2. Sealey AK692
3. Franklin XL3826

Skip advert
Advertisement

New & used car deals

Volkswagen Polo

Volkswagen Polo

RRP £15,270Avg. savings £1,925 off RRP*Used from £6,777
Toyota Yaris Cross
Volkswagen Golf

Volkswagen Golf

RRP £25,250Avg. savings £2,502 off RRP*Used from £8,995
Nissan Juke

Nissan Juke

RRP £19,805Avg. savings £4,765 off RRP*Used from £9,000
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

New cars cost too much but some brands are finally finding the price sweet spot
Opinion - new car prices, header image

New cars cost too much but some brands are finally finding the price sweet spot

New cars are expensive, but Mike Rutherford is pleased to see that some manufacturers have found a pricing sweet spot
Opinion
12 Apr 2026
We got it wrong: VW ID.3 and ID.4 will be replaced by “true Volkswagens”
Volkswagen ID.3 - front and rear

We got it wrong: VW ID.3 and ID.4 will be replaced by “true Volkswagens”

The inside story on how the people’s car maker lost touch with the people, before rediscovering its mojo under boss Thomas Schäfer
News
10 Apr 2026
New Nissan Juke revealed with sharp origami-inspired design and EV power
New Nissan Juke unveiled in Japan - Auto Express editor-at-large Phil McNamara stood next to the car

New Nissan Juke revealed with sharp origami-inspired design and EV power

“No compromise” design for Leaf’s baby brother, which is bigger and more spacious than today’s combustion-engined Juke and goes on sale in a year
News
15 Apr 2026