Why these hex keys are named Allen? Did anyone named Allen came up with the idea? Yes! The name Allen comes from W.G. Allen, the owner of the Allen Manufacturing Company, currently owned by Apex Tool Group.
But shockingly, this company isn’t the manufacturer of the best T handle Allen wrench set on the market!
After patenting the idea in 1909, Allen produced the first hex keys. But now, other companies are leading the race in quality, affordability, and customer satisfaction. Yes, Apex is profiting from the patent, nonetheless.
Enough side-tracking, back to business. As you’re here to know about the updated market in 2021, the scene hasn’t changed much except in a few areas. Here are the top 10 hex key sets for 2021.
Our Top 5 Picks
- Performance Tool W80275 Metric T-Handle Hex Key Set, 10-Piece
- Bondhus Set of 10 Hex T-handles w/Stand
- EKLIND Cushion Grip Hex T-Key Allen wrench – Metric MM sizes
- CRAFTSMAN Hex Key Set, 14-Key, T-Handle
- Powerbuilt 8 Pc Metric T-Handle Hex Allen Key Wrench Set
10 Best T Handle Allen Wrench Sets Reviews
Here, I reviewed the top 10 selection from a practical perspective ignoring the marketing gimmicks. Note the pros and cons carefully.
1. Performance Tool W80275 Metric T-Handle Hex Key Set
Let’s start with a product from the more affordable range. This product is from the brand Performance Tool. I’d say this is a perfect cheap T handle Allen wrench set for amateurs.
Build Quality
The overall build had both metal and plastic. Both the shaft and the tip are from metal, and the handle is completely plastic.
There’s no T shaped metal underneath the plastic, and the metal is heat-treated but not as strong as I’d have liked. Unless you deal with really tough and clogged screws, the metal will last. You get what you pay for.
Design
As it’s a T handle hex key, it has to be ergonomic in design. The PVC plastic has a smooth and rounded shape to fit in your palm nicely. And that makes sure your hand doesn’t get fatigued even after long uses.
The black oxide finish was a vital addition to prevent corrosion from happening on the shaft.
Ease of Use
There are 10 hex keys inside. And all of them are sized for the popular sizes of hexagonal screws. The diameter ranges from 2 to 10mm and comes in metric units only.
Performance Tool T-Handle Hex Key Set
✔️ Pros
- Ergonomic handle
- Cheap
- Good sizes of hex keys
- Comfortable
- Steel
❌ Cons
- The hex tips get rounded quickly
- Cheap PVC plastic
2. Bondhus 13390 Set of 10 Hex T-handles
This set from Bondhus is a better candidate for the best T handles Allen hex key set award. No, there’s no partiality being shown here. They are that good without charging a hefty price.
Build Quality
The Bondhus went a few steps ahead of the competition at this point by using a stronger variant of steel. They used Protanium steel in the whole hex key, and it made it 15-20% stronger than its competitor steel hex sets.
One scare with hex keys is that the hex head may lose its shape. That is not a concern with this T shaped Allen wrench.
Design
Every one of these Allen wrench set screams thoughtful design. The handles are a bit cylindrical to give more control to you as opposed to round handles.
The shaft’s thickness goes up and down with the size of the key, and it makes a world of difference in stabilizing.
Ease of Use
It comes with 10 key sizes in SAE units, which is an acquired test for non-American customers. The sizes are listed on the box, so we’re leaving those from mentioning here.
The smaller keys have shorter shafts, which might be an issue when dealing with deep screws.
Bondhus Set of 10 Hex T-handles[/caption]
✔️ Pros
- Premium steel
- Chamfered tips
- Even thickness
- ProGuard finish
- Cushioned handle
❌ Cons
- Comes in only SAE units
- Smaller keys have short shafts
3. CRAFTSMAN Hex Key Set
If you’re looking for quality, versatility, and affordability in a single picture, then this keyset from Craftsman is going to be the one. With two key tips in each Allen key, your life is made easier.
Build Quality
The keys have both metal and plastic on the body. You’ll see that the metal is the main structure, and the plastic was put on the handle to make it comfortable.
This uninterrupted metal structure is the reason why it’s so durable. But I wouldn’t suggest it to professional workers or frequent users.
The plastic on the handle doesn’t feel cheap and holds its own under heavy duress.
Design
These keys have a different but better design than what you’ve seen above. Each key has two key heads, with one being shorter than the other.
You’ll see the ergonomic handle has some patterns drawn on it. These patterns act as slip-resistant when your hands get tired and sweaty.
Ease of Use
Instinctively, the two-tip design makes it easy to access both deep and shallow screws. You can maintain stability, allowing quicker screwing-unscrewing.
Then, there’s the fact that it comes with 14 different key sizes in the metric unit, aka universal unit.
✔️ Pros
- Anti-slip patterns on the handle
- Heavy steel structure
- Two hex tips
- Metric Unit
- 14 keys
- Affordable
❌ Cons
- Only for light, medium, and non-frequent uses
4. Lichamp T Handle Allen Wrench Set Metric
In my opinion, these Allen keys from Lichamp are a better rendition of a two-tipped hex key. Little Champs, as I’d like to call them, have proved to be something exceptional as per the customer satisfaction.
Build Quality
The build material of these T handle Allen keys is both heavy-duty steel and plastic.
Except for the firm plastic on the handle, everything is from a steel alloy that doesn’t lose its shape. Even the plastic itself doesn’t wear out from daily use.
You’ll see how the metal and plastic hold their own against the toughest and hard to move screws.
Design
It is evident from the shape of the handle that they put a decent amount of thought behind the design. The handle has a slender shape on one end and a round shape on the other, making it easy to hold onto it.
The two hex tips with varying lengths of shafts are its main attraction. I say they pulled off the design quite perfectly.
One issue is present with the carrying case. Some tools don’t fit into their slots and wastes time.
Ease of Use
As you can expect from such a well thought design, it’s one of the easiest T-shaped hex key sets out there.
✔️ Pros
- Durable Chrome vanadium and plastic
- Chamfered tips
- Two hex tips
- Ergonomic handle
- Affordable
- Anti-rust
❌ Cons
- The slots, in this case, aren’t very useful
5. EKLIND 55168 Cushion Grip Hex T-Key Allen wrench
Here, we have the Hex T-key set from EKLIND. As far as customer satisfaction goes, this brand seems to have quite a bit of a handle on it. Although this set doesn’t look like one, it performs like a premium quality T handle Allen wrench set.
Build Quality
The keys are made of high-quality steel and plastic to ensure high durability and long longevity. They used their own heat-treated steel alloy designed for maximum strength. The steel has good ductility to endure a good amount of torque.
With the anti-rust and anti-corrosion coating on it, you can expect years of service. However, the plastic handle could have been built better. It can feel a bit flimsy, especially when working with tough screws.
Design
It has a quite simple design with uninterrupted metal all-through the build. The loop-shaped handle works as a cushion for your palm. Thanks to this design, you’ll feel comfortable when pressing down on it.
The constant 6-inch shaft in all 8 pcs is a plus point.
Ease of Use
With metric mm units, the keys are accessible to a larger crowd as opposed to the SAE units. Each key is marked with its dia.
The loop design gives leverage that maximizes pressure when dealing with clogged rusted hexagonal screws.
✔️ Pros
- Heat-treated steel alloy
- Cushioned loop-shaped handle
- Durable plastic
- Constant 6-inch shaft
- Metric units
❌ Cons
- A bit costly compared to its competitors
- The handle may feel slippery if sweat is present
6. Harbor Freight Metric T-Handle Ball End Hex Key Set
Things are looking good at number 6. The Harbor Freight T handle Allen key set is often the go-to option for most budget buyers. It also comes with a lot of hex keys. More details below,
Build Quality
Well, build quality is certainly a concern for these types of keys, but not for Harbor Freight’s products. With a steel backing the structural integrity, you shouldn’t find faults, but there is an issue. The tip can get rounded if you push too hard.
The plastic on the handle feels soft on touch and stays tough against pressure. Flimsy is something this key has no relation with.
Design
Continuing the praise for the handle, the plastic isn’t just durable, it’s also comfortable. Rather than producing fatigue, it lets you work harder when stubborn screws come up during work.
Moreover, it has an efficient two-tipped design that we all love.
Ease of Use
18 pcs of hex keys in a single box; if this doesn’t make life easy, then what will! You’ll have so many sizes of keys here that you wouldn’t fall short even with the most complex machinery.
And it has both SAE and Metric units. Americans and Non-Americans galore!
✔️ Pros
- Steel body
- Durable plastic
- Ergonomic design
- Two hex tips
- Affordable
- Lots of keys
❌ Cons
- Doesn’t look as good
- Not for professionals
7. HORUSDY 18-Piece T-Handle Allen wrench Set
HORUSDY, a brand with a lot of promise but doesn’t deliver as much as you’d like. Nevertheless, this set is a good alternative for a cheap hex key set.
Build Quality
The main body of the keys is of chromium-vanadium steel that’s known for better strength and torque resistance compared to carbon steel. Is it safe to use? For sure it is. It won’t break on you, but the smaller keys can get rounded easily.
Additionally, the plastic handle feels sturdy enough to last years. The poorly built stand, however, is completely useless. Overall, is the price worth it?
Design
In my opinion, it performs terribly in the design section. With a top-heavy design, it’s hard to keep a stable pressure on the screws. Sometimes the handles feel too thick to hold.
The plastic is anti-slip, but that’s the only positive.
Ease of Use
You’re getting a total of 18 pcs of keys with two sets of 9. One set has the SAE units, and the other set has metric units.
The shape does allow for a stronger grip, but as mentioned before, it does get tiring quickly.
✔️ Pros
- Cr-V steel
- Strong plastic
- 18 pcs of keys
- Both SAE and Metric units are available
- Affordable
❌ Cons
- Poorly designed stand
- Top-heavy design
- Smaller keys get rounded easily
8. Powerbuilt 8 Pc Metric T-Handle Hex Allen Key
Is this a T shaped Allen wrench or an L shaped one? That is the question. Jokes aside, these keys from Powerbuild give you a lot of versatility compared to all other products on this list. It does also take away something.
Build Quality
The whole body, including the handle, comes from Chromium Vanadium steel. This variety of steel is better than your carbon steel but not as good as stainless ones. Smaller keys have been known to break on the first couple of uses. So be aware of that.
I’d have liked the dia markings to be fixed in place on the shaft. It moves, and that makes it susceptible to be lost.
Design
The best part of the key’s design is the sliding top handle. It allows the keys to be both L-shaped and T-shaped. Reaching screws in narrow places can become easy if you use the L-keys.
Both the ends of the handle have a hex tip, and it makes each key a three-tipped hex key.
Ease of Use
There are no cushions in place to prevent it from hurting your palm. When working with tougher screws, cushions are necessary, which these keys lack. Other than that, it’s fairly easy to use, thanks to the speed sleeves.
✔️ Pros
- Cr-V steel
- Sliding top handle
- Long shafts
- 3 hex tips
- Speed sleeves allow fast screwing
❌ Cons
- Expensive
- Not comfortable
9. Owl Tools T Handle Allen Wrench Set
If you’re looking for value in your product rather than over-the-top premium features, then Owl Tools brings this simple hex key set for you. This is a much affordable option, in my opinion, but you pay cheap, you get cheap.
Build Quality
The build material of this keyset is steel. According to the manufacturer, the steel is hard enough that it won’t strip. But the performance says otherwise, and the customers can attest to it.
Now, they didn’t lie, but these keys aren’t quite as strong for frequent and rough use.
There’s a plastic coating on the loop-shaped handle, which is supposed to give you comfort. But it’s quite thin that risks breakage.
Design
The loop-shaped handle is the one part you’ll like most. It gives you a certain amount of leverage and acts as a spring when you press down on the screw.
Another point worth mentioning is the long shafts. They measure around 7 inches.
Ease of Use
You’re getting 2 sets of 9 Allen wrenches, with each set having different units. Both SAE and metric units are available.
✔️ Pros
- Steel build
- Plastic coating on the handle for comfort
- Extra-long T handle Allen wrench set
- Affordable
- Both SAE and metric units
❌ Cons
- Feels weak due to thinness
- Thin plastic coating
10. Pittsburgh T-Handled Bit Hex Key Set
This is the last product on this list, and it’s put here for the cheap price only. You can’t go any cheaper than this one. Pittsburgh’s T handle Allen keys are for the amateurs.
Build Quality
They used chromium-vanadium steel on this one, but it feels like they cheapened out on it. To my surprise, with a bit of tough use, the hex tips strip easily. But for light use, it’ll work. Don’t expect high durability from it, and you’ll be fine.
Then, there’s the plastic on the handle. It doesn’t say if the ‘T’ bit of the handle is metal or not, but it feels cheap on the hand.
Design
In terms of design, it has the minimum ergonomics at play. But it misses out on some of the key issues like anti-slip patterns or surface. Also, the size of the handle might be too small for people with big hands.
The stand is good and fits the keys nicely. That being said, the paint on it will wear out.
Ease of Use
You’re getting both SAE and metric units. So, it’s a fit for both groups of people. The question remains with the lack of anti-slip design. Other than that, it’s pretty easy to use.
✔️ Pros
- Black oxide finished Cr-V steel
- Cheap
- Amateur oriented
- 20 pcs of keys
- Both SAE and metric units
- Good stand
❌ Cons
- Plastic feels cheap
- No anti-slip properties
- Strips and rounds when working with high torque
T Handle vs P Handle Hex Wrench Sets
Although they’re quite similar, there are a few differences between the T handle wrenches and P handle wrenches. Most of the time, these two fall in the same category. Here are a few differences:
| Properties | T Handle Hex Wrench | P Handle Hex Wrench |
| Handle | Slender shaped | Round shaped and bigger |
| Hex Tip | Only one vertical to the handle | Two tips, one vertical and one horizontal to the handle |
| Versatility | Less versatile | More versatile |
As you already have seen in the review, P-handle wrenches are basically an advanced version of the T-handle hex wrenches. So, these differences are not something to spend time on.
Eklind vs Bondhus Hex Key Set
When it comes to wrenches, Eklind and Bondhus, both brands bring a lot of quality and options to the table. They are from the premium brands, but I think one has the upper hand.
Although Bondhus is the younger one among the two, it has more recognition in the bag. I’d say their claim on quality products has strong backing from both the manufacturing process, design, and the customers.
That isn’t to say that Eklind performs badly, but it does fall a bit behind with build quality and MRP setting. It’s certainly better than Craftsman and Harbor Freight.
What to Look for Before Buying The Best T Handle Allen Wrench Set?
We all have faced bad decision making and regretted it later. But it doesn’t need to prolong any further. In this age of information availability, that’s a crime!
So, what are the things to keep in mind when searching for the best T handle allen wrench set? I talk about them below,
Brand
I admit that it’s not good to dwell on the topic of the brand too long. But it’s important, especially when it comes to manufactured products. Brand reputation is a good indicator of the product’s quality as well as customer satisfaction.
Look for brands like Harbor Freight and Craftsman for the budget category and better options; Bondhus, Eklind, etc.
Material
Knowing which material was used in your hex keys is important. It determines the amount of pressure it can take before it loses shape. The most common material in this type of key is Chromium Vanadium steel. It’s better than carbon steel.
Head Style
There are mostly three types of hex heads or tips you’ll see on the market.
- Flathead only has the hex shape at the tip.
- The rounded head has an extruded circular surface alongside the hex.
- Ball ring head is the best of them all with a ball ring that can work in angles. You can angle the shaft at 30-degrees in both directions and still screw it on.
Chamfered or non-Chamfered end
Chamfering – the process of rounding the edges of any item. It can make quite the difference when it comes to screws. I think there are advantages and disadvantages to both chamfered and non-chamfered hex ends.
In chamfered ends, the borders aren’t sharp, so they are easier to get into the screw slot. And they’re smoother. For amateurs with less practice, this is a good one. Chamfered ends go easy on the screws and remove the risk of damaging and striping. Non-chamfered ends carry the risk of damaging bolts and screws.
But not everything is bleak on this side. When you face a tough and rusty screw that doesn’t seem to move, it’s the non-chamfered sharp-edged end that comes in handy. The sharp edges add an extra leverage point.
So, buy the one that seems to suit your work. If you can manage the budget, I reckon having both types of screws is the way to go!
Length
The length of the keys isn’t the issue; rather, the question is, how long is the shaft? Can it go deep enough? Or is it too long to be stable?
There are certain cases where you need the screw to reach deep. Your short hex wrench can’t seem to reach due to the overblown plastic handle. So here, even though the key is long, the shaft itself doesn’t have the same clearance. Keep this issue in mind; I talked about it in the reviews.
Also, too long of a shaft can result in reduced stability. So, decide accordingly.
Weight
The overall weight of the keys won’t be an issue as per the market. But the concern is the weight balance. If the handle is too heavy, it can make your life hard.
Durability
This fact is related to the material used in the Allen keys. Heat-treated steel and quality plastic will ensure high durability under high torque.
FAQs on T-Handle Hex Keys Set:
1. Are Torx Keys the same as Hex Keys?
No, Torx and hex keys are completely different types of keys. A Torx key has a star-shaped head, whereas a hex key has a hexagonal shape. You can indeed use a Torx key in the place of a hex key but not the other way around.
2. Are there different kinds of Allen wrenches?
Yes, there are mostly three types of Allen wrenches, depending on their shape. They are,
- L-shaped, the vertical working shaft is on one side of the handle.
- T-shaped, the shaft is on the middle of the handle.
- P-shaped, it also has a shaft in the middle but has two hex tips instead of one. This is a modified T-shaped Allen wrench.
3. Which is more versatile? An L-key or a T-key?
Both the L-key and T-key have their uses. And if the handle is rigid, then they have no versatility. Only a sliding top handle or a P-key wrench is more versatile in that sense.
4. Where can I buy a set of T-handle Allen keys?
The best way to buy tools is to opt for online stores like Amazon, E-bay, Walmart, etc. Big online stores have better deals.
5. Who makes the best T-handle hex key set?
Look for brands like Bondhus, Elkind, Lichamp for the best key sets.
Final Words
We’re at the finish line. The overviews, as well as the buying guide, should have shown you the right direction! And I hope you’ve already smelt the scent of the best T handle hex key set from the selected few. If so, don’t hesitate to purchase. Go easy on the wrenches!
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Last update on 2021-05-12 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
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