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

Toyota Yaris Cross

Toyota Yaris Cross

RRP £27,145Avg. savings £2,285 off RRP*Used from £15,875
Skoda Kodiaq

Skoda Kodiaq

RRP £39,025Avg. savings £3,590 off RRP*Used from £14,295
Nissan Qashqai

Nissan Qashqai

RRP £27,415Avg. savings £6,056 off RRP*Used from £11,509
Dacia Spring

Dacia Spring

RRP £14,995Avg. savings £4,636 off RRP*
* Average savings are calculated daily based on the best dealer prices on Auto Express vs manufacturer RRP
Skip advert
Advertisement

Most Popular

The new petrol and diesel car ban is nothing more than state-sponsored bullying
Opinion - diesel pump

The new petrol and diesel car ban is nothing more than state-sponsored bullying

Mike Rutherford thinks the Government should allow motorists to buy new petrol and diesel cars well into the 2030s
Opinion
11 Jan 2026
Car Deal of the Day: Posh Volvo XC40 SUV for Qashqai money
Volvo XC40 - front full width

Car Deal of the Day: Posh Volvo XC40 SUV for Qashqai money

The XC40 is a comfortable, stylish and aspirational SUV available at a surprisingly affordable price. It's our Deal of the Day for January 11.
News
11 Jan 2026
New Tesla Model 3 Standard slashes entry price and running costs
Tesla Model 3 Standard - front

New Tesla Model 3 Standard slashes entry price and running costs

A new cut-price version of the best-selling electric saloon offers 332 miles of range and the lowest insurance rating of any Tesla
News
9 Jan 2026