Whenever we go to a mechanics shop, we always utter some words, ‘not too loose or tight. Seeing that scary tool, we always feel what it will do with our car, cycle, bike or any other tool. Torque wrenches are best friends for every plumber or engineer. They adore it like their babies. Today we review 5 best cheap torque wrenches.
This is a troublesome to choose the best torque wrench. When buying a torque, we always run after the one with the best features.
But, one crucial issue arises when we always need to consider the price! This is such an issue that most of us think of leaving the idea of buying a torque wrench.
Keeping this factor in mind, engineers have taken the tough task in their hands. As a result, they have come up with some cheap torque wrenches that are efficient enough to meet your necessities.
This is specially made for those who think money is a big issue while owning torque wrenches. So those home service plumbers who feel that they do not have enough ‘capital’ to get their desired best torque wrenches.
Moreover, sometimes we need torque wrenches in our homes for different purposes, a cheap one solves this dilemma too. So here we have come up with 5 best cheap torque wrenches, which are efficient but come at a very budget friendly price.
Best Budget Torque Wrench In 2022
- TEKTON 24335 1/2-INCH Drive ClickTorque Wrench
Whenever you are buying a torque wrench, the first suggested name would be TEKTON 24335 1/2-INCH Drive ClickTorque Wrench. The world may go advanced with all, those digital torque wrenches but this is an unforgettable tool for everyone for their best features.
A torque wrench should be strong and the tool also should be handy enough for your work. TEKTON is designed to serve you like this. This is the best tool available in the market right now.
Product Description
The torque is made of durable all-steel. No plastic was used, not even in the outer part. The high contrast steel scale is very easy to read even, in low light you are able to see what is written in the scale. You can measure from both sides, clock-wise and anti clock-wise. The reversible ratchet head drives work in both directions effectively. The torque is 18.5 inches long, 1.9 inches wide and in height is 1.4 inches.
The wrench emits that easily can be heard and felt only when the pre-set value is reached properly. This wrench is ready to use and shipped pre calibrated. Also, this is calibrated with an accuracy of +/-4% rate.
Measuring is very easy. All you need to do is just set the desired value on the handle scale and start tightening or loosening the fasteners.
You will understand the accuracy when you will correctly use it in your vehicle to tighten the fasteners and see them tucking in a place where you will feel the sound and can easily take it out without damaging any particular thing.
Hear the sound when you need to apply force on it. Simply feel the sound when your torque tucks into the right place.
The best part of this torque is you do not any battery or any kind of charger as it is a completely all-steel made product.
Pros
- This is made of all steel so, no plastic was used so it is unbreakable.
- No charger or battery needed.
- You will get a storage case to keep your tool safe.
- The torque conversion chart includes an operator manual.
- The wrench is pre calibrated.
Cons
- A little heavy to hold.
Benefits:
- As it is calibrated, you can confidently use it without any hesitation.
- A simple and reliable tool which works effectively after the sound of ‘click’.
- Designed with all-steel material, there is no fear of breaking.
- The scale is designed for night works also.
- Designed for cars, trucks and other vehicles.
- You can use it as a lawn or garden equipment.
2. EPAuto 1/4-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench
Read the packaging well. It comes with a ‘Quality Replacement Warranty’. So it is implied for of lifetime. This is an all-steel tool but the casing is made of plastics. If you want to loosen something, buy a breaker bar with that too. Shipping is available, so you can also order online.
This works better on vehicles like cars or trucks, not applicable for bikes. This is a great torque wrench that operates smoothly and easy to use. Buying a good torque wrench at a cheap price is really a difficult job to accomplish but the EPAuto has brought their special invention Epauto ¼- Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench at a cheap rate only for you.
It is a Taiwanese product that is designed usually for trucks and cars. The torque comes with the ability to work for your fasteners properly. This is such a useful tool that you will love keeping it in your home.
Product Description:
This tool is a click torque wrench and ready to use. The EP auto is a long lasting torque wrench. Its body is made of corrosion resistant steel. The ratchet head is made from chromium vanadium steel alloy. The best part is you can store it for your grand-children also as it is a long lasting tool!
Like other torques, you have to recalibrate it after 1 year.
All you have to do is just preset the torque when you feel the tuck or click and begin your work right after that.
You have to stop applying force when you hear the sound.
The scale gives you easy reading. The scale is dual ranged and it is a very high contrast tool.
The ratchet head is made of durable vanadium steel alloy. Whenever you are buying a torque wrench the ratchet head has to be very strong and EPAuto is exactly offering you that.
The tool is pre calibrated and comes with an accuracy of 4%.
Comparing to the other cheap torque wrench this is the best tool.
The handle is made with strong material including rubber and applied with no slip formula. So if you struggle with sweaty hands then this is the torque wrench you are finding for.
Pros
- Click torque wrench, no mode settings required.
- Does not need any battery.
- Do not need to get charged.
- Steel body with a non slip grip.
- Very cheap according to the features.
Cons
- The casing is made of plastic.
- Accuracy rate not so high.
Benefits:
- A long lasting product which is a useful tool in everyday life.
- Made of steel so this is unbreakable.
- The nonslip grip is made for your sweaty hands.
- Works only in clock wise direction.
When you are buying your EPAuto read the instructions written on-to the packaging. You won’t get any top notch level accuracy, so you would not get the best accuracy. You can also buy it online, as shipping is available. The sturdy look and elegant design are more than anything what you are getting in this price. This is a very light weight tool in a very cheap price.
3. Performance Tool M195 0-80 in/lb & 0-7 Newton-meter Beam Style Torque Wrench
When you need a good torque wrench but you are struggling with your budget also you desire a stylish tool in your box then here comes Performance Tool M195 0-80 in/lb & 0-7 Newton-meter Beam Style Torque Wrench for you. This is a very thin and stylish torque wrench that designed to give you comfort and accuracy.
The tool is a very stylish beam torque wrench. Leave all those old school torque wrenches behind because this is a digital torque wrench that has advanced features with a new technique.
Product Description
The performance tool performs like Newton and it is just worth its name. This is a ¼ beam torque wrench. You can measure both clock-wise and anti-clockwise with this tool. The ball type handle ensures proper accuracy in your work. The handle also localizes force.
The battery is required for this wrench, it does not provide you with a life time warranty. A variety of torque values is measured when tightening fasteners.
The beam is provided to give you comfort and increase the accuracy rate.
The locking mechanism is very easy to use. During operations, it prevents accidental adjustments.
The non-slipping grip is designed to provide you comfort and good hold over your tool.
If you want to loosen your fasteners use M195 break away torque.
This tool is able to tighten all those seat post clamps.
The tool is made of high grade spring steel.
The ratchet head is a nice one and easy to control.
Pros
- Digital reading is accepted.
- Also applicable for bi-cycles and bikes.
- Non slipping grip is there.
- Cheap but efficient.
Cons
- Accuracy rate not so good.
- Audible click is not so strong.
Benefits
The pointed hard beam can bend according to your instructions. This is a digital torque wrench so you do not need to set the measurement, just hold your torque wrench over the tool and wait for the ‘tuck-tuck-tuck’.
The tool can be used for the rear differential, gun-smithing, and many more. The torque is exactly what you need on a small budget. You can exchange part by part of this tool. As the shipment is available, you can also buy it online.
Best Affordable Torque Wrench And Buying Guide
Before buying it read the buying instruction so that you might not buy something which is not needed. As it is a digital torque there is a lower possibility of error.
There are some sparse instructions about using it. You can both remove and install the cylinder head. It does not need calibrating. It is durable and very accurate to use.
The plastic pointer end may disappoint you but the pinion gear is exactly what you are looking for.
4. Neiko 03727A 1/4-Inch Drive Beam Style Torque Wrench
Finding a good torque wrench in desired budget is a tough job. But, only engineers and plumbers know the difficulty when they need this tool most. It is like finding water in a dessert for them. Sometimes keeping an all purpose torque wrench is necessary as you do not when you might need it.
Another beam style torque wrench like Performance is Neiko 03727A 1/4-Inch Drive Beam Style Torque Wrench. If you are worried about which torque wrench to buy in a lesser price you should opt-out of this tool. This is a convenient tool and is applicable for your everyday operations.
Product Description
The torque wrench is a universal tool. It has both standard and metric readings. There is no need for conversion charts.
The torque is precise and versatile. It has multi-purpose use.
This is one of the best features in this budget you will get in the market.
The tool shows exact standards and you do not need to worry about the accuracy rate.
The tool is convenient, so you can use it both clock-wise and anti-clock wise.
This is a much reliable torque wrench than those click type torque wrenches. You can mount or remount in when using rifle scope base screws.
This is very flexible and stylish. You do not need to worry about that click sound. The safety issue is much secured than the click torque wrench.
There is a red plastic pointer that is used to hit the zero mark.
People who feel trouble to choose mechanical products, this is an eye catching tool for them. You can use it from both directions. This is a great feature again.
Pros
- Easy to hold.
- Has a plastic pointer.
- Works from both directions.
- Universal tool
- Mounting and remounting ability.
Cons
- Reading varies according to the direction.
- Beam is visibly off.
Benefits:
Once you hold it you will forget those click torque wrench. The plastic pointer works quite good. It does not get damaged if you fall it from your hand.
The scale is really good, works equally good for both standard and metric readings. The sharp metal from the beam does not impale.
You can use it for bikes and also in aviation.
The needle is very pointed and works effectively.
You can use this torque wrench for automotive works.
Buying Guide Of Neiko Drive Beam Style Torque Wrench
Whenever you buy a torque wrench, try to research it properly so that you do not end up buying something inefficiently. Even you should read our best cheap torque wrenches buying guide because it is a well research guideline for our lovely readers.
If you are facing a price issue, then you can believe it blindly. As there is a plastic pointer, so you cannot be rough with it. Shipping is available and also you can buy this tool online. There is no way to calibrate it, so be careful if you do not want to buy those old school tools.
5. Pittsburgh Pro 239 Professional Drive Click Stop Torque Wrench
Stop using those heavy to hold and larger than ever torque wrenches, here comes Pittsburgh Pro 239 Professional Drive Click Stop Torque Wrench for you.
If you are a person who wants to love their works single handedly, if you need a small, handy but effective torque then this tool is present at your service.
If you want precision and accuracy then the recommendation would be no going back than this tool.
The tool comes with a pawl mechanism. The unique torque wrench is exactly what you need in a limited budget.
Product Description:
The torque utilizes a heavy duty cam and pawl mechanism. The tool provides a range of 20ft to 150 lbs possible. This is a reversible tool.
The wrench length is 18”.
This tool comes with a hard plastic case for storage. You just have to dial the torque and you will hear a ‘click’ sound and you can start your work.
Its long handle makes it easier to use than the kind that is non-adjustable.
It feels strong and can endure any types of forces you will apply on them.
The construction of this torque wrench is very strong. You can also use in your home operations.
Pros
- This is very easy to use.
- Good click sound provided.
- Can be used for minor car repairs.
- Has wide range of measurement specifications.
- Comes in a good plastic carrier.
- Affordable and adjustable.
Cons
- Does not provide exact accuracy
- Not a professional tool
- Does not convert measurement.
- Does not last long.
Benefits:
According to customers, the tool is really easy to use. It is a very homely tool.
The dial setting work is easy to handle. This is why it is perfect for home use.
The tool works for lug nuts, minor car repairs, tire rotating and cleaning rims.
It has a wide range of variety in measurement specification. So the tool is really versatile in use.
The tool comes in a low price and affordable for everyone. So if you think a homely designed torque wrench you should buy this.
Pittsburgh Professional Drive Click Stop Torque Wrench Buying Guide
The tool is home friendly. So if you want to use it in professional purpose you better be not buying this. Although the screw mechanism was not loved by the customers, but this handy tool has a lifetime warranty. This is an offer you would probably get nowhere. Shipping is available and you can also buy online.
You can buy it from Amazon as other online stores did not show us a trustworthy behavior. Also there are reviews which might come in your work. If you are finding a Newton-meter measurement, then I’ll tell you not to buy it as it might leave you in disappointment.
Read the specifications and manual properly before buying. This is a small torque wrench, so you may find difficulty when reading the numbers in the scale. As it is not a professional tool, so you better be a ‘Sunday Plumber’ with this.
Do not be a professional one keeping it in your bag. You will also get a carrier, the bag is made for keeping the torque wrench only and also very small in size. The quality may not satisfy you but this is a good tool in a budget price.
Caution
- Do not forget to check the product.
- Do not face trouble choosing professional or home friendly ones.
- Buy it according to your need.
- Check the casing if it is made of plastics.
Conclusion
When you are buying the best cheap torque wrenches, consider researching more about it, as you would not like to spend your money on something inefficient. Some good companies make torque wrenches at a low price. Try to find the brand is an important factor here.
If you are going for a 2nd hand tool, see the warranty card. Needle, balls are replaceable, so if you do not have a good budget you can replace them and re-use them. Know about the ratchet head, this is the main part of your torque wrench. Though your budget is less, do not forget to maintain the quality of the scale, measurement readings. You can get both digital and click torque wrenches at a lower price.
Buy the one you need. Amazon is a good site for shopping. You can also go for that. Sometimes they provide good deals. Try to grab that if you can.
As a recommendation, you should never compromise with quality for the price. Reconsider it, if you really want to buy a cheap one. Lastly, know the market price, recognize your desired product. Only after being sure again and again grab the deal.
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
At first glance, one can look at a torque wrench and it can only be grabbed like any other ordinary wrench. Although certainly larger in size, you would think that it would be really difficult for them to lose. But this is far from it. If you use a torque wrench, you want to hold the ball with a certain level of firmness. This is especially true with a wide range of cars, trucks, suites, vans, coupes, and motorcycles. Before even buying one, you must know how to properly use a bolt to snatch/smash a torque wrench to prevent it from getting damaged or worse.
How can i trust this products, These are also available in the local market, every 2nd buyer criticize the other product which he is not selling. It gets me really confused which product shall i choose, can you suggest me any more detail and identifications about these products.
Thanks
Worth reading this article to get to know the best torque wrenches. I think TEKTON is the best of all, nothing looks great than TEKTON. As it is made of durable all-steel without plastic, I found it very strong and handy enough for our work.
I have no experience with digital torque wrenches and I’m not sure if the mechanism is similar to the click types. What are your most preferred brand or model of torque wrench? Google’s first suggested torque wrench is well known brand and it has good reviews but I just want to make sure I’m not missing out on anything better. Thank you.
Performance Tool M195 0-80 in/lb & 0-7 Newton-meter Beam Style Torque Wrench works very well for me. I use it for my motorcycle. I had a Tekton 1/4″ torque wrench that was kind of a disaster. This is worth the extra money and I’m very happy with it. I still use my Tekton 3/8″ and 1/2″ torque wrenches. They have no problems.
I’m a novice wrencher and I’m looking for recommendations for a relatively inexpensive torque wrench. I’m not super picky on the high end of the range, but an brand torque wrench (a good moderately priced one) would be great. Not sure which one would be the most useful. Any recommendations?
I was just about to buy every torque wrench I find now I don’t have to. I can put that idea to rest just like all that money I was about to spend just to work on my car ! What I am totally wondering about is when will you need to use a torque wrench in a tight space? Specially if it’s a 1/2in ratchet?
People just say you need to use a torque wrench in tight spots all the time. Is that true ?
If the torque wrench capable of fitting in a tight space through the installation process, you should do it right away. The application of appropriate toque is exclusively crucial in tight spaces. There is, of course, no doubt about the fact that they save a lot of time. Ergonomic torque wrenches, which are designed for tight space, can ensure that fasteners in those places are tightened to specification, and as a result, they save you from a lot of hassle. Hence, I guess, to use a torque wrench in tight spots has its own leverages. Therefore, I believe, worth a shot. Good luck.
i am professional mechanic here in Ohio, I have been in this profession for so many days , i am using currently Pittsburgh Pro 239 Professional Drive Click Stop Torque Wrench.this is a very good range , i want to know form you that how i can make it go for last long ?
Wrench is one of the hand tools versatile and many uses. With various designs, wrench can be used for all activities and supporting various repair. The type of adjustable wrench size matching types and different fasteners are essential when purchasing. In the above products, which product is the best?
Which one do you recommend? I’m very confused, I want to buy (Pittsburgh Pro 239 Professional Drive Click Stop Torque Wrench), but my friend told me it is not good and he advised me (Neiko 03727A 1/4-Inch Drive Beam Style Torque Wrench | 0 -80 in / lb 9 ) What is the best in your opinion?
Nice explanation, but what do you guys recommend in the ~$50 range? Well, I don’t do a lot of things requiring a precise torque, but I still need something to be able to do the occasional stuff, thanks for your attention, best!.