The UK's bestAllen Key Sets2022 Review

This reliable combination of metric and imperial long pattern hex keys from Draper are probably the last set you’ll need on site.

We really liked the range of Allen key sizes available in this hex key kit. An imperial hex key set alongside a metric one means you’re ready for any eventuality, and can tackle almost any bolt that comes your way.

The solid plastic case is slim enough to fit into a shallow tool drawer or bag, and keeps the allen wrenches organised for quick access when not in use.

Silverline are a well-known UK tool brand with plenty of experience making useful hand tools. Their T handle set of Allen keys is perfect for when you need to apply extra torque to a bolt.

The solid plastic handles fit well in the hand, and the Allen keys we tested out were comfortable to use and were surprisingly long, with the longest key at 24 cm. You have two options with each hex key, either the long shank for tight spots, or the stubby end for when you need that extra bit of power.

The best T handle Allen key set needs a robust stand, so we were pleased with the included one. It can be bolted to a wall or workbench, and will keep the Silverline Allen keys in order and secure for when they’re needed.

A list of hand tools wouldn’t be complete without something from Stanley, and their 097552 FatMax Set is impressive for its size. It’s like a Swiss Army Knife for Allen keys, a hex key set that gives you the best Allen wrench in your pocket for when you need it the most.

It’s the right size to fit into the smallest of tool kits, but still offers a range of Allen key sizes to fit most common bolt heads. The handle is rugged and although a bit bulky, it’s a small price to pay for having all of these hex keys in one place.

Our favourite feature of this best folding Allen key set is the three locking positions available on each hex key. Depending on the situation, you can lock each key out at 90°, 130° or 180°. This is useful for when access is limited, or when you need the handle to give you some extra grip.

Wera is one of Germany’s best-known hand tool manufacturers, and this Hex-Plus multicolour set is quite simply the best Allen key set we’ve ever reviewed. The quality of the steel and finish is outstanding, we don’t expect it to scratch or bend any time soon.

For a simple tool, the Wera BlackLaser L-key set has made some useful innovations to help you out during use. The colour-coded plastic sleeve makes for instant size recognition, and will let you know straight away if a hex key is missing. The sleeve acts as an extra bit of grip, and will even help your fingers out if the temperatures drop low.

The ball-ended sections are brilliant for turning hard-to-reach bolts on an angle, and their extra length translates to more torque for less effort. The best hex key innovation that Wera have developed is the star shaped end that really grips into bolts and avoids any slipping.

The carry clip is handy as well, it feels like tough plastic and should keep everything in this Wera Allen key set stored securely when not in use.

German engineering firm Presch are currently making some seriously high-quality kit that won’t completely empty your wallet. Their 13 piece hex key set is made from coated Chrome Vanadium steel and features some really handy miniature size L-shape hex wrenches.

Similar to the Wera BlackLaser set, one end of each hex wrench has a ball tip. If you’ve not used them before, they make those tricky-to-reach bolts just that bit easier to lock into. You don’t need to be positioned head-on to the fixing to get a solid grip on it, you can be at an angle of up to 30° off.

Supplied in a handy plastic holder, it’s easy to see if one of your keys is missing. It’s also easy to see which size is which when they’re stored. You don’t get any colour-coded sleeves but compared with the Wera set they’re less than half the price! These are the best budget hex keys I’ve come across.

Hardly needing any introduction, the simply enormous Amazon Basics brand has items ranging from mattresses to batteries. These functional and simple folding hex key sets perform well and are surprisingly affordable.

If space is at a premium, or you’re just sick of rooting through your toolbox for the right metric, Imperial, or Torx bit, these folding key sets are the right solution for you. The Imperial keys range from 5/64” – ¼”, the metrics from 1.5 – 8 mm, and the Torx go from T9 – T40. That’s probably going to get you out of any sort of trouble you can get yourself into.

Something I like about these key sets are the rubberised handles. If you’re working on a greasy bicycle or out in the cold, having a bit of extra grip is a welcome addition. You can probably get a bit more torque with these grips as well. It’s a neat set that compacts a whole load of keys down to something you can keep in a pocket.

Focussing on solid but affordable hand tools, WORKPRO are famous for their locking utility knives, but also make some of the best hex keys on the market. Made from hard Chrome Vanadium steel alloy, they’re not going to deform after tightening down a couple of bolts.

For keen DIYers that want to keep their Imperial and metric options open, this set comes with an equal number of both. Colour coded in red for metric and blue for Imperial, you won’t spend as much time hunting for the right key.

The tips of each hex key are polished and slightly rounded off, to help you get a snug fit into a hex head bolt. It should also help you to avoid damaging stubborn bolts as well. Supplied in a handy plastic case, you should be able to keep all your keys together easily.