Whether you run a professional auto repair shop, work in construction, or are an avid DIYer, a tool chest is a critical part of your arsenal, regardless of your proficiency level. As your tool collection continues to grow, you need an efficient way to stay organized. That way, you find the tools you need quickly and efficiently. Finding the best tool box can be a challenge.
With so many different brands on the market right now, the question then becomes – which one should you pick? We’ve reviewed the best tool chests for 2021 to help steer you in the right direction. If you think you may want to build your own tool storage:
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. It helps pay for web hosting. Thank you! Read my disclosure for more info.
Top 3 ToolBox Picks
Best Overall ToolBox
Milwaukee Rolling Tool Box
33.4 x 22.8 x 21.9 in. Maximum capacity: 250 lbs.Polypropylene, metal
Best Value Toolchest
Montezuma Tool Box
56 x 24 x 11 in. Maximum capacity: 333 lbs.Heavy-duty steel
Best Luxury Buy
Extreme Tool Box
25 x 41.5 x 40.5 in.Maximum capacity: 384 lbs. Aluminum
1. Best Tool Box Overall – Milwaukee Rolling Tool Box
- Brand New in box. The product ships with all relevant accessor
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Specs:
- Size: 33.4 x 22.8 x 21.9 in.
- Maximum capacity: 250 lbs.
- Material: Polypropylene, metal
If you’re looking for a simple, efficient, and practical storage solution for your job site, the Milwaukee rolling tool box is designed to do just that. The feature that stood out the most to us is its modular design. Each box has an indent and slide system, making it easy to fit into the container underneath and lock them in place.
The entire stackable tool box unit consists of one small box with four storage bins, a medium-sized box with one storage bin, and a large base box with a storage bin that’s wide enough to fit larger equipment. All in all, this rolling tool storage delivers outstanding value for the money.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and portable | The small wheels aren’t built for rough terrain |
| Larger and adjustable handleGreat value for the money | |
| Multi-functional |
2. Best Value Option – Montezuma Tool Box
- 24 Deep units provide you with 33% more cubic space than standard 18 Deep tool storage
- Exclusive, patented drawer latching system keeps drawers tightly closed
- Full extension ball bearing drawer slides hold 150 lb
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Specs:
- Size: 56 x 24 x 11 in.
- Maximum capacity: 333 lbs.
- Material: Heavy-duty steel
As far as affordable boxes go, it doesn’t get any better than the Montezuma 56-inch tool box. We particularly like the black powder coat finish that gives it a sleek, contemporary look – something you don’t often find with industrial-grade tool chests.
This unit comes with deep storage space, a solid latching system that keeps each drawer tightly sealed, and double-slide reinforced drawers for storing heavier equipment. It even comes with a USB and power outlet to let you conveniently charge your tools. All in all, the Montezuma box is an excellent choice if you’re working with a tight budget and need storage for your tool set.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Lightweight and affordable | It does not come pre-assembled |
| It comes with USB and power outlets | |
| Ideal for storing heavier tools |
3. Best Lightweight Option – Homak Tool Box
- Product Type :Portable Tool Box
- Package Dimensions :54.864 Cm L X30.48 Cm W X27.177 Cm H
- Package Weight :1.0lbs
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Specs:
- Size: 20.25 x 8.65 x 9.75 in.
- Item weight: 1 lb.
- Material: Aluminum, steel
The Homak is one of the most lightweight tool boxes we’ve come across so far. It has a solid industrial-grade construction secured by an HMC security locking system. It comes with two friction drawers, each of which has ample storage space below the lid for quick and easy access to your tools. We were pretty pleased with the quality and design of this portable toolbox. It’s certainly worth checking out.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Extremely lightweight and portable | Drawer slides aren’t as smooth as you would expect |
| It comes with a secure tubular locking system | |
| Solid, industrial-grade construction |
4. Best Luxury Buy – Extreme Tool Box
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Specs:
- Size: 25 x 41.5 x 40.5 in.
- Maximum capacity: 384 lbs.
- Material: Aluminum
If you have more wiggle room in your budget, the Extreme offering would be an excellent option to consider. This professional quality tools chest comes with a large drawer that’s ideal for storing bulky tools. The drawers have quick-release, self-latching handles to ensure they remain shut while in transit.
Each set of ball bearing slides has a 100-pound rating per drawer, with the deeper drawers having sliders with a 200-pound rating. That way, you’ll be able to open and close the drawers smoothly even when they contain bulky items. While the Extreme might be a lot pricier than some of the other tool boxes we’ve come across, it is undoubtedly worth it.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Durable, heavy-duty construction | Slightly pricey compared to other models in its class |
| High weight-bearing sliders for easy drawer opening and closing | |
| Fitted with a tubular coded security lock |
5. Best Portable – Craftsman Tool Box
- Craftsman 3-Drawer Metal Portable Chest Toolbox
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Specs:
- Size: 9 x 20.6 x 13 in.
- Item weight: 19.35 lbs.
- Material: Metal
The classic design of the Craftsman metal tool box is one of the things that appealed the most to us. It comes with a comfortable top handle making it easy to carry, and a handy cover-hinge latching lid to keep the top lid open for easy access to your tools.
When you’re through with your project, all you have to do is close the latching lid, and the drawers lock automatically. We particularly like the draw-bolt latches it comes with for extra security when it’s not in use. All in all, this unit is a solid choice for any professional or DIYer who values convenience.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Sleek, classic design | May not be able to handle weighty loads |
| Lightweight and portable | |
| Compound action drawer slide for easy opening and closing |
6. Best for Offsite Jobs – Stalwart Rolling Tool Box
- PORTABLE TOOL BOX – This rigid toolbox has two 4.2” nylon wheels and a fold-down handle with comfort grip, so you can take everything you need to off-site jobs
- TOOL STORAGE – 24 total small parts compartments, two removable tool trays, and a deep bottom compartment ensure that you will have room for all your essential tools and supplies while on the go
- RUGGED DESIGN – This tool chest with wheels is made of durable polypropylene and metal to keep your power and hand tools safe and secure during travel or moving around rough construction sites
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Specs:
- Size: 9 x 20.6 x 13 in.
- Item weight: 11.05 lbs.
- Material: Polypropylene, metal
If you’re a professional who frequently works offsite, you will like what the Stalwart rolling box brings to the table. It is designed for convenience and portability. This unit comes with a comfortable, fold-down handle that’s easy to grip and a set of nylon wheels for easy transportation.
The tool storage consists of two removable tool bins, 24 compartments for small parts, and a deep, roomy bottom compartment for bulkier equipment. Its propylene and metal construction is designed to withstand the flurry of activity around busy construction sites. Its price point isn’t too bad either.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Rugged and durable construction | The propylene body may crack on heavy impact |
| Easy to transport | |
| Ample storage for small parts and bulky tools |
7. Best for Home Use – Masterforce Tool Box
- Returns: A restocking fee of up to 20% of items price appl
Prices pulled from the Amazon Product Advertising API on:
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.
Specs:
- Size: 36 x 26 x 24 in.
- Maximum capacity: 700 lbs.
- Material: Metal
Every aspect of the Masterforce tool chest is crafted to perfection. Its 24-inch depth makes it one of the largest 36-inch boxes on the market right now. It has a patented Raise-&-Release latching system with 110-pound full-extension drawer slides. We particularly like the open-till design that provides enhanced visibility and easy access to power and storage.
The Masterforce comes with eight drawers, each fitted with non-slip liners to keep your tools from sliding about every time you open and close them. It also comes equipped with USB and power outlets for added convenience when charging work tools and electronics like smartphones and tablets. Talk about versatility. All in all, we were pretty impressed by the performance of this unit.
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Large storage capacity | Its price is a little on the higher side |
| It comes with a secure keyed locking mechanism | |
| Hardened steel construction makes it highly durable |
Tool Boxes – More Than Just Storage
There you have it – the best tool box for the money. Any of the tool chests we’ve reviewed in this guide would be an excellent choice for keeping your tools and equipment safe and organized. The one you pick ultimately depends on your personal or professional needs. If you want to see the best cordless tool brands to go into your new tool chest we have just the article for you.
