10 Best Tool Chest – Reviews and Buying Guide 2021

You do not realize the importance of a tool until you require it for a crucial reason. This is exactly why it is a must to organize your tools. For the arrangement of tools, there is no alternative to the best tool chest. A tool chest/toolbox contains several compartments such as drawers, cabinets, trays, etc. Every single of them is needed to decorate your tools in different categories. Should you have doubts about what tool chest fits your application, check out the list below.

Top 10 Best Budget Tool Chest 2021

1. 5 Drawer Rolling Tool Chest

Goplus produced a few fine tool chests in recent times. One of them is the Goplus 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest. It possesses multiple drawers, trays, and a cabinet for storing essential hardware tools. Lockers have EVA padding for damage prevention of tools. The top portion is detachable for carrying purposes. Carrying can be done using four wheels too. Two of the casters have the brake function. It will last for a long time as the material is solid steel.

Tool Protection

A great feature that several companies miss out is the proper cushioning and protection for tools inside drawers. Developers of the Goplus tool chest are wise enough to provide the famous EVA padding in drawers of the toolbox. It contains decent cushioning as well as heat insulation to keep tools in a top-notch condition.

Numerous Closets

Buying the Goplus tool chest will never let you feel the need for an alternative space. It features 1 top box drawer, 5 additional drawers, 2 trays, and 1 cabinet on the bottom. The entire storage cabinet is ready to divide into two boxes. The feature is useful for people who want to use one of them separately.

High-grade Component

The Goplus 5-drawer has so many features. Similar to features, the material of the toolbox is excellent as well. The body part is constructed of sustainable and solid steel. The workmanship of Goplus is great, which results in an incredible structure for the toolbox. The wheels given for portability have the rubber-plastic synthetic material.

Pros

• Comes with a cabinet and several trays and drawers
• Made of solid and durable steel
• Has the EVA padding for preventing damage of the tool
• Features flexible universal wheels

Cons

• Some claimed the size is not as small as expected

2. Craftsman 3 Drawer

Craftsman 3-Drawer Metal Portable Chest Toolbox is an incredible product for people who need an extremely portable tool chest. The compact size can stay anywhere, no matter how small the spot is. For security, the solid tool carrier has a decent locking system. Also, the black coating powder is present to avert rust. Compared to traditional tool chests, the weight is quite light. Picking up the toolbox and carrying it to another place won't be an issue thereupon.

Three Drawers

Your toolbox may have more than 3 drawers. However, you should not forget the construction of this tool chest. It is a portable product to keep your tools. For a portable machine, three drawers are sufficient. Drawers contain lids. Without opening the lid, you cannot access the drawer. It is a great security feature.

Robust Build

The Craftsman tool chest comes with a hefty construction, thanks to the metal frame. Toolboxes give places to generally strong tools. Without materials like the metal frame, the product will not last for a decent time. The thick metal frame ensures longevity for the tool chest.

Portability

If you are looking for a high-quality mechanic tool chest, you got to pick this product. It is a portable toolbox that you carry wherever you go and require. The machine weighs 19 pounds. Yes, it is not the lightest portable toolboxes. However, it has many advantages compared to those lightest tool chests.

Pros

• Features lids to make sure secure transportation
• Has a better size than other portable toolboxes
• Constructed of a high-end metal frame
• Has ample space, thanks to 3 drawers

Cons

• Lacks side handles

3. 6 Drawer Rolling Tool Chest

Another premium tool chest from Goplus in the lineup is the Goplus 6-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest. It shares several similarities with the previous product. Nonetheless, this one has 6 drawers where four are small and 2 large ones. With the top chest compartment, the key locking mechanism is available. To move the tool chest, you do not have to carry it. The swivel casters will do the job for you.

Spacious Storage

The toolbox contains sizable storage capacity to accommodate most tools of its owner. You will get two large drawers, 4 small drawers, one cabinet (large) in the bottom, and 2 trays in the product. These drawers have enough facilities to keep all types of tools you have. Compartments are rust-resistant too.

Easily Movable

It is not one of those portable tool chests. However, weight is about 58 pounds. As a result, it will not be a hard job to move the toolbox from one place to another. You do not have to have a muscular body to do so. The item contains handles on one side that helps even more to maneuver.

Detachable Construction

The Goplus toolbox is not a boring machine that does things like a traditional box. It offers detachable compartments to the user. The feature was added creatively to divide the tool chest into two machines. Thus, you get the option to use two toolboxes separately and put them in different places.

Pros

• Made of high-quality components
• Comes with a durable paint
• Accommodates all tools with six drawers overall
• Comes with drawer locking mechanism

Cons

• Takes a long time to get assembled

4. Rubbermaid 5 Drawer Mobile Work Center

Tool chests are specially made for storing various tools. However, some people require storage that can keep different things, including tools. Rubbermaid Commercial Trademaster 5 Drawer Mobile Work Center falls in that category. It features 5 drawers, as well as a locking bar for security. 4 inches casters of the item, are suitable to transport 100 pounds of materials. The product has numerous other benefits such as the cord wrap, side panels, and molded pocket compartments.

Several Drawers

The drawer is one of the most needed compartments in a toolbox. People use these products to keep their valuable belongings in a safe place. The drawer is a very secure place to keep things such as essential tools. This tool chest features 5 drawers. You will have the locking bar as well.

High Power

If your tools are heavyweight and you are worried about where to put them, without a second thought, buy this item. According to the manufacturer, the product is capable of carrying up to 250 pounds of weight. With this ability, you can put all those heavy stuff in there and take them to another place.

Locking Caster

You probably know about casters already. However, have you ever used luggage which casters can be locked to prevent unnecessary or risky movement? Well, those are called locking casters. With the Rubbermaid toolbox, you can transport stuff easily, thanks to the high standard casters. When you reach your destination, lock the caster to avoid unwanted movement. These wheels can move with ease, even on hard surfaces.

Pros

• Supports weight of more than 250 pounds
• Has casters with a locking system that moves with ease in a rough surface
• Contains 5 drawers
• Comes with pegboard side panels

Cons

• Has drawers that lack decent slides

5. Stanley 037025H 50 Gallon Mobile Chest

Stanley 037025H 50 Gallon Mobile Chest offers a bunch of stuff to people for storing and transporting tools easier than before. It is a portable machine that contains a deep tote tray for keeping your materials in a decent condition. The wheels are great. Last but not least, the unit has a large room (50-gallon capacity) to take plenty of things. Also, the most wanted key locking feature is available with the mobile toolbox.

Transportable

As the name suggests, Stanley's toolbox is a mobile product. It comes with numerous attributes that allow the machine for quick transportation with maximum comfort. It features pull out steel handles. Users won't feel any pain while moving it, thanks to the soft handle grip. The rubber-coated wheels are another plus in terms of portability.

Large Capacity

Stanley Black & Decker is famous for making top-notch tools and so. Similar to other products of the company, this particular tool chest has it all. The capacity is good enough, with 50 gallons of space. The vast size is adequate for most applications. Most importantly, space is secured with a decent locking mechanism.

Key Lock

Securing a container with a key never gets old. The Stanley tool chest, for this reason, has added the feature to the toolbox. The field to produce new locking systems is not that advanced yet. Other locking mechanisms are not as reliable as the key locking system. Therefore, in the product, you get to lock all your stuff in the machine with a key for maximum safety.

Pros

• Has a large capacity
• Contains the deep tote tray
• Features hefty grooves on the lid
• Provides assistance while moving by the handle

Cons

• Does not have enough large wheels

6. Milwaukee Rolling Cabinet Set

Milwaukee has many well-built tools in its inventory. The company makes some decent containers of tools as well. Among them, Milwaukee Rolling Cabinet Set is a durable one as it is composed of durable materials. Furthermore, it has a magnificent locking system that works internally. For the movability, you will have a built-in handle. The weight is not much too. Lastly, drawers are protected by the soft-close design.

Secured Technology

The whole cabinet can be locked with a magnificent internal locking technology. You can leave the tool chest in an unsafe place and still be free of worry after locking it. Another safety measure is a soft-closing design. Even if you are not in a good mood, the soft-close design will not let you slam the door of drawers.

16-drawer Construction

What is better than 6 drawers? Yes, 16-drawer it is. If you think no tool chest is enough to keep your tool collection, you are wrong, thanks to the Milwaukee toolbox. Plenty of drawers allow already-organized users to arrange tools in categories. All of the drawers contain exclusive pre-cut liners of Milwaukee.

Durable Material

You do not get cheap quality materials from Milwaukee. The same goes for this product. The whole set uses different components for different objectives. However, all of them are durable (iron and steel) sufficiently to protect your precious tools. Teaming up with top-end materials, the construction is indeed excellent.

Pros

• Includes all accessories for quick setup
• Contains a roller in drawers for convenience
• Made of 6-gauge iron and steel
• Has a huge storage capacity

Cons

• Weighs a lot

7. Best Choice Products Portable Top Chest Rolling Tool Storage Box

Despite being a big sized toolbox, the Best Choice Products Portable Top Chest Rolling Tool Storage Box can be moved without any issues. It is possible because of 4 Omni-directional casters. Also, the user can pull the tool chest using the handle. Talking about other features, it has both large and small drawers. A key can lock the top part for security and safety. It is built to last as it has steel material.

Proper Security

Every potential buyer should make sure the security and safety of products, especially in the case of the tool chest. To keep things secure that belong to the user, the item has an excellent locking system for the top unit. It is a reliable traditional key locking technology.

Tool Chest and Cabinet

Unlike many tool chests, this one comes with two different pieces of items. One is the tool chest or toolbox, and the other one is the cabinet. The best benefit is, the user will have the option to use any of the parts differently. As both have different purposes, it will be easy to set them apart since it arrives in 2 pieces.

Full of Drawers

It features a bunch of drawers for all those organized fanatics. There is a top drawer, large drawers, small drawers, and trays. Last but not least, a large bottom cabinet is present too. All these compartments are great for organizing your belongings properly. Furthermore, trays and drawers are lined with the foam material mat. Hence, residue oils from various tools will be absorbed quickly.

Pros

• Contains two independent toolboxes
• Has a locking mechanism in the upper portion
• Provides space to all tools with many drawers and a cabinet
• Features casters for uncomplicated movement

Cons

• Does not have a clear instruction manual

8. Giantex 2pc Mini Tool Chest & Cabinet Storage Tool Box

Are you seeking for a detachable tool chest? You are in the right place. The Giantex 2pc Mini Tool Chest & Cabinet Storage Tool Box has a top detachable system with various drawers. The compartments are capable of taking heavyweight. Four casters will help the tool carrier to move to carry heavy-duty tools. In the bottom, you will find a cabinet. 6 hooks are available in it to hand different things. Overall, the Giantex product is a complete tool chest.

Powerful Casters

The compact tool chest is capable of carrying or keeping heavyweight accessories and tools. It has been possible not only for the robust material but also for the casters are strong enough. The toolbox contains 2 pairs of wheels. Overall, 4 wheels can aid you in moving the tool chest comfortably.

Separable Top Chest

3 drawers are present in the top chest. Most importantly, the top chest can be detached to carry around. For easy moving and transportation, you will have a decent handle. Do you need more space? Well, open the lid to find out more places to keep stuff. The toolbox comes with a convenient cabinet too.

Safe Use and Installation

A couple of drawers will be of no use if these are not comfortable to use. For example, some tool chests have drawers that are super tight to pull in or out. The Giantex toolbox is not one of them. It contains drawers that can be glided easily. Also, the item will arrive with the illustration and description to help you throughout the setup method.

Pros

• Installs in a few minutes
• Has a separate upper section
• Comes with three drawers
• Moves quickly and safely with flexible casters

Cons

• Not fit to be an industrial product

9. Keter Modular Locking and Rolling Tool Chest with Wheels and Drawers

If you want a compact yet robust built tool chest, you can choose the Keter Modular Locking and Rolling Tool Chest with Wheels and Drawers. It has a portable size that you can place even in a garage. It is a weather-resistant product. For this reason, outside conditions will not harm the toolbox. It has a few drawers. The largest one is situated at the bottom. To ensure security, you can use the central lock system.

Deep Storage

A quick question. Can you put tools like the socket set and power drill in simple storage? The answer is negative. These instruments require deep storage that the Keter Rolling Tool Chest provides. The bottom drawer contains a large deep space to provide shelter to sensitive and heavyweight equipment.

Central Locking System

One of the most fantastic attributes of this unit has to be the central locking mechanism. A central lock is responsible for locking multiple things (drawers in this case) at once. Often people lock one drawer but forget to lock another one. With the central locking system, you can lock every single compartment by one click.

Weather Resistant

The Keter toolbox is a mobile tool chest. It means people might take the product outside, which is fine. The reason is, its construction allows the product to prevent harm caused by the rain or scorching heat. No matter what the toolbox goes through, you won't ever notice denting, rusting and peeling.

Pros

• Has a weather-resistant design
• Comes with an easy installation method
• Locks the whole system with a central lock

Cons

• Has a plastic slide that does not work the same level as ball bearing slide

10. Husky 26 inch 5 Drawer Tool Chest

Husky 26 in. 5-Drawer Tool Chest is not one of the biggest tool chests. However, the product offers 5 drawers to its users. Thus, you may store and organize all these tools without any issues in the toolbox. The drawers are quite strong as they can hold 100 pounds of weight. A decent textured powder coat finish makes sure your tools have no chance to get damaged. If you want a lightweight and compact tool chest, Husky 5-drawer it is.

Sturdy Drawers

As the name says, the Husky toolbox contains 5 drawers. However, these are not some typical drawers. What makes them different is the tough construction. Every drawer can take 100 pounds of tools. Therefore, it will be a suitable choice if you have numerous heavy tools.

Latch System

The latching mechanism is old but has not lost its charm with time. For this reason, the manufacturer provided the technology for this toolbox. It helps the product to be closed securely. One of the common problems in a tool chest is the slip of drawers. It won't happen when you secure the tool chest with the latch system.

Convenient Rollers

Rollers of a drawer may not be the most vital part of a tool chest. However, in this case, talking about rollers is worth it. The roller has an excellent material that will last for several years with regular use. It contains some magnets. As a consequence, at a specific point, the drawer closes automatically without receiving a push.

Pros

• Features 5 drawers
• Contains the powder coat finish
• Carries 100 pounds each drawer with a sturdy build

Cons

• Can be heavy to carry when it’s full

11. WEN 73015 Garage Glider Rolling Tool Chest

WEN 73015 Garage Glider Rolling Tool Chest is a small mobile toolbox. However, the construction is so hefty that it can take the weight of 350 pounds. To store your components, you can use three drawers. The drawer has the multi-layered padding for keeping the tools in a top-notch condition. The tool chest features an overall four swivel casters. Using them, the user will be moving the toolbox. Moreover, the company offers two years of warranty for the tool chest.

Plenty of Storage Slots

Primarily, there are three drawers present in the tool chest. These slots are dedicated to serving the user by keeping his tools in the place. Secondly, overall, 16 onboard storage slots are there for carrying other tools that are small in size. Lastly, you will have 2 magnetic trays (foldable) organizing bolts and screws.

Tool Safety

Giving ample places to tools is not enough only. Products like the toolbox should make sure the safety of that tool. A person keeps his precious tools, trusting the machine. WEN is not going to break your trust as it has the absorbent vinyl-protected multi-layered padding. It protects all of the tools from clashing with each other.

Heavyweight Carrier

If you think the tool chest will fail to hold heavyweight materials considering its size, you are gravely wrong. Because of tough construction and high-grade components, the toolbox can carry up to 350 pounds of weight. It is a great tool carrier that is portable but possesses the ability to bear a high amount of weight.

Pros

• Comes with three slots of storing space
• Moves by the assistance of ball bearing swivel casters
• Protected by vinyl-protected thick padding

Cons

• Lacks a decent seat foam on the top

12. Viper Tool Storage LB2605R 26-Inch 5-Drawer 18G Steel Rolling Cabinet

Viper Tool Storage LB2605R 26-Inch 5-Drawer 18G Steel Rolling Cabinet is a heavy-duty toolbox that can carry up to 100 pounds in each box. The drawers are hefty and have smooth ball bearing slides. The tubular cam internal locking system works relentlessly to provide the utmost security for the tools. To take the unit to a place, you will get the necessary help from 4 casters.

5-drawer Design

The premium Viper tool storage offers five drawers for the convenience of the user. 2 small drawers are at the top and three large-sized drawers under the small ones. Each of the drawers can take up to 100 pounds of tools. All of them have gliding ball bearing slides for quick and easy use. The latch technology is present for preventing unwanted openings.

Maximum Security

People will be using this premium tool carrier for storing valuable tools. The Viper tools storage will value your belongings with maximum security. It features a secure 7-pin internal locking mechanism. The lock is strong enough not to break in any situation. After locking the tool chest, do whatever you are supposed to do without worry as your tools are secured properly.

Heavy Build

The appealing color may not tell you how strong and hefty the tool chest is. For build material, the manufacturer used heavy-duty steel, which is extraordinarily durable. Also, it comes with a powder coat finish to resist corrosion, wear, and tear. Unlike many toolboxes, it is backed by a warranty. The company proffers a limited lifetime warranty for the tool chest.

Pros

• Secured by the tubular cam lock
• Comes with five casters
• Prevents wear and tear by the powder coating

Cons

• Bottom drawer does not stay closed

13. Goplus Tool Chest 20-Inch Portable Tool Box

Like other Goplus tool chests, the Goplus Tool Chest 20-Inch Portable Tool Box is made of top-end steel. It has a power coat that makes the product wear-resistance. Two latches of the item are going to ensure it is closed appropriately. Also, a handle is present that is comfy to hold while traveling.

Quick Transportation

One of the lightest tool chests from Goplus is this one. The weight is not high, so that the user may have the convenience to carry it. The design is applied in a way to save weight. Also, the toolbox comes with a handle that has a comfy grip. All of these things are there to let you move the machine with ease.

Two Latches

One latch is not adequate to keep the box closed. Especially, when the toolbox is keeping heavyweight tools in it, one latch might fail to keep the product closed for a long time. For this reason, you get two latches which are made of steel. Two latches make sure the tool chest is shut as per your wish.

Easy Installing and Cleaning

The toolbox will arrive with an instruction manual. A user should not try to assemble the toolbox without the help of the user manual—only a few steps required to install the tool chest completely. Talking about cleaning, a damp cloth will be enough to do so, thanks to the smooth surface of the steel.

Pros

• Features 3 drawers
• Gets cleaned with a simple cloth
• Ensures the product is closed with two latches

Cons

• The top lid is not aligned properly

14. GEARWRENCH 20" 3 Drawer Black Steel Tool Box

If you are searching for a portable steel made tool chest, GEARWRENCH 20" 3 Drawer Black Steel Tool Box has to be on your list. It features three compartments. They have the ball bearing slide. The black paint is protected by powder coating. For this reason, cleaning is super easy for the toolbox.

Decent Security

Toolbox stores valuable equipment for people. Hence, security from thieves is a crucial factor to consider. Thereby, the tool chest features a central locking technology. It is controlled by a key that you can carry even in a small pocket. Locking the whole item is easy and quick.

For Medium and Small Tools

Some people are content with their tool collection of small items. Not everyone requires heavy-duty tools. In these cases, the Gearwrench toolbox is a fantastic choice. It is an affordable tool chest that contains three drawers. Every drawer has the ball-bearing drawer slide for ease of use.

Stays Clean

It is great to have a tool chest that has steel build material. However, steel has two arch enemies. They are corrosion and rust. Without controlling them, they might piss your toolbox off after a while. To stay out of risk, the toolkit contains a decent black powder coat. It makes the unit corrosion and rust-resistant.

Pros

• Great for arranging small collection of tools
• Features a central lock
• Comes with a rigid build of steel
• Backed by 1 year of warranty

Cons

• Does not have firm locking mechanism

Some Crucial Things to Consider Before Buying Tools Chest

Storage Capacity/Space

One of the primary things you should think about is the storage you will need to store your belongings. Have a look at your collection of tools. Count the large ones as well as small tools (as much as possible.) Assuming you have only a few tools, a simple tool chest having a moderate size will do the job. However, if you got expensive equipment, do not go for an ordinary toolbox. It will damage your precious components more than you can expect. In that case, your preference should be a toolbox that contains a cabinet.

Durable Frame

The durability of toolboxes have a direct connection to the frame and build material. Therefore, you have to consider the frame of the tool chest provided you want a product with longevity. Let’s talk in brief why the material and frame matter so much. A random wrench weighs almost one pound. If you have ten ordinary wrenches, the weight gets to 10 pounds. People who are willing to buy tool chests usually have a bunch of heavyweight tools. Materials like 15-gauge steel are the ones you should rely on these cases. Thick steel handles the massive weight with ease.

Drawers

The third thing to look for while purchasing a toolbox is the drawer. A drawer is a place where you will place your valuable equipment. You have to go for something that contains several drawers assuming you own a variety of tools. Nevertheless, the case should be the opposite if you have same-category products. Drawers should possess some essential features such as padding protection and all that. Try to get a drawer that has a soft-close design. It helps to lessen the damage when you slam the drawer hard.

Security

You do not want your stuff to be stolen by some greedy thief. For this reason, purchasing a tool chest that has a good locking capability is important. Talking about the lock, there are plenty of locking technologies. Some notable ones are key lock, padlock, tubular lock, number lock, and so on. All of these systems are proved to be secure for various items. Hence, go for the one you are comfortable with. It must be a secure system too. If you are not going to keep valuable tools in a toolbox, you can avoid buying an item with locks.

Strength

The more top standard material your toolbox has, the more strength it is going to possess. Thereupon, it is a vital thing to pay attention to what your tool chest is made of. Steel is great as a primary element making tool chests. Some companies use enhanced versions of steel to ensure decent strength of the container.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Why are tool chests so expensive?

The toolbox/tool chest stores high-priced tools and accessories. These materials are super heavyweight. Thus, a tool chest must be strong adequately to keep them. Premium steel is used for making a toolbox. The drawers are so robust that they never wear out. As a consequence, tool chests tend to be expensive.

2. How do you clean a tool chest?

Let’s talk about the easiest way to clean a tool chest. Take a container and pour some hot water into it. Put an ample amount of dish washing soap in it and mix them properly. Now use this mixture to scrub the tool chest using a nylon scrub. When scrubbing is done, apply normal water to clean. For drying, you must use a chamois cloth.

3. How do I organize my tool chest?

The first step of organizing a tool chest is to determine what types of tools you have. Every type should get its compartment. It will be easy to find then. The upper drawer can be used for keeping sockets. Middle drawers are suitable to store wrenches, chisels, and wrenches. The bottom drawer must contain heavy tools like jigsaw, drill, and so on. It enhances the stability of the toolbox.

4. How do you lube a snap on the tool box drawer?

Firstly, buy a decent lubricant to apply. You can use the product suggested in the bottom answer. Coming to the point, empty the drawer and remove it. With a damp cloth, clean the dust of the area you will be lubricating. Now use the lubricant on both runners. Clean the lubricant in places where it is not needed.

5. What is the best lubricant for toolbox drawer slides?

There are several lubricants that you can use for drawer slides of a toolbox. One of them is the Permatex 80345 White Lithium Grease. It is proven to be very effective in a drawer slide. Including it, various other ones are available. However, the Permatex item is recommended by experts.

Editor’s Pick:

It was hard to choose only one as the winner among tool chests as many high-quality products are present on the market. However, considering some vital factors, our editors will be going with Goplus 6-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest.

One of its most impressive traits is plenty of drawers. 6 drawers are useful when you want the best tool organization. Both small and large drawers are available. It has a wonderful and spacious cabinet as well. Two trays increase convenience for the user.

The tool chest offers two famous colors, black and red. The corrosion-resistant and anti-rust paint is applied firmly. Hence, cleaning the product is not a difficult task at all. On the other side, cold-rolled steel gives a sturdy construction to the toolbox.

To make sure of the security of the item, the user will have an external key lock. A fantastic design teaming up with the steel build makes the tool chest stable even while staying on an uneven surface.

Conclusion:

It does not matter if you are a professional or a homeowner who uses tools occasionally. What matters is the proper management of tools. A tool chest will be the best product to achieve that goal of organizing tools. Every product on the list has different and unique attributes. It is you who should determine what tool chest will suit your requirement most.