If you are an electrician, or if you know an electrician, you understand how important tools are. After all, successful electrical work can’t be done without the right tools.
While the list of available tools has expanded over the years, there are some basic tools that every electrician must keep in his or her toolbox. These are “must-have” tools that electricians just can’t do without, no matter the specific job they are working on.
Finding quality, dependable electrical tools can seem like an impossible task with all of the choices available today. We are here to help. Whether you’re replacing worn-out favorites or stocking your tool belt for the first time, use our convenient guide to help you pick the best electrician tools available.
Things to Consider About Electrician Tools
- While there are many different types of tools that an electrician needs, some tools are specific to electrical work. Be aware that a good electrician needs to have access to a broad range of tools, more than can be listed here in this guide.
- Remember that not every tool is right for every job, so stock your toolbox with a variety of tools to ensure you always have exactly what you need.
- It may be more cost-efficient to purchase a toolset when first starting out.
- Purchasing tools individually may not be as cost-effective, but it allows you to create a more customized cache of tools.
Top 10 Electrician Tools Comparison Table
| Picture | Name | Type of Tool | Price | Rating (1-5) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1. Klein Tools 92906 ProPack6 6 Piece Apprentice Tool Set | Tool set | $$ | 4.9 |
| 2. IRWIN VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers Set, 8 Piece, 2078712 | Pliers | $$ | 4.9 |
| 3. Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS Digital Multimeter | Multimeter | $$$ | 4.8 |
| 4. Wiha 26194 Screwdriver Set, Phillips With Precision Handles, 4 Piece | Screwdrivers | $ | 4.8 |
| 5. Channellock 430 2-Inch Jaw Capacity 10-Inch Tongue and Groove Plier | Pliers | $ | 4.8 |
| 6. Estwing E3-16S 16 oz Straight Claw Hammer with Smooth Face & Shock Reduction Grip | Hammer | $ | 4.8 |
| 7. Klein Tools 85078 Cushion-Grip Screwdriver Set, 8-Piece | Screwdrivers | $$ | 4.9 |
| 8. Klein Tools 1005 9-3/4-Inch Crimping and Cutting Tool | Crimping tool | $ | 4.9 |
| 9. Custom LeatherCraft 1539 18 Multi-Compartment Tool Carrier | Tool case | $$ | 4.7 |
| 10. Fluke T5-600/62MAX+/1AC Kit, 203 mm x 30.5 mm x 51 mm | Fuse tester | $$$$ | 4.8 |
Useful Shopping Information for Electricians
Don’t buy any electrician tools before first reading this section!
A good electrician needs many different tools; some are exclusive to electrical work while others are for more general use. Assembling a good set of electrician’s tools is not an inexpensive endeavor. Be prepared to make an investment.
Below you will find a basic list of tools that every electrician needs.
- Assorted screwdrivers
- Wire strippers
- Assorted adjustable pliers
- Needle nose pliers
- Cable cutters
- Tape measure
- Hammer
- Razor knife
- Amp meter
- Cordless drill
- Digital multi-meter
- Hacksaw
- Level
- Tool belt or pouch
As we mentioned earlier, toolkits are another option for those of you who do not want to invest in individual tools (this can get rather expensive).
Beginners that start with a pre-selected toolkit will not only save money, but also allows them to get a feel for the quality of the tools.
When you are a beginner, you can listen to the advice of pros, sure, but until you actually get out there and start working with them, you won’t know which ones you like.
Top 3 Best Electrician Tools Reviews
1. Klein Tools ProPack6 Apprentice Tool Set
This six-piece tool kit is a great place to start for the beginner electrician or household DIY-er. The kit comes with wire strippers, cutters, needle nose pliers, flat head screwdriver, Phillips head screwdriver, and linesman. It has all of the basics covered.
Both new and seasoned electricians consider Klein Tools to be a great value investment, and this apprentice tool kit is a must for any electrical job, whether simple or complex. Klein Tools are heavy duty and built to last. With color-coded and stamped handles, you can identify each tool without having to pull it out of your tool pouch.
You will be using these tools for years to come. The convenience, quality, and versatility of this tool set make it the best electrician tools for professionals as well as simple tinkerers.
2. IRWIN VISE-GRIP GrooveLock Pliers Set
Every electrician needs a good set of pliers, and the Irwin Vise-Grip Groovelock Pliers set really includes all of the most commonly used pliers, each with special ProTouch Grips. These pliers feel so natural and comfortable in your hands that they will not cramp even after hours of extended use.
Built to be strong and sturdy, this set of pliers will endure just about anything. The Full Lifetime Guarantee and affordable price tag make this tool set hard to turn down. This set is definitely a great set of electrician tools whether you are a professional, garage tinkerer, or even just a regular homeowner.
3. Fluke 115 Compact True-RMS Digital Multimeter
The easy-to-use compact design of the Fluke 115 Digital Multimeter makes it a great addition to any electrician’s tool belt. It has an easy-to-read digital display with a backlight for poorly lit locations. This multimeter is strong, accurate, reliable, and long-lasting.
Some users even claim to have had theirs for over thirty years.
It is comfortable to use and fits easily into the hand. This multimeter comes with everything you need: a user’s manual, holster, installed battery, and silicone test lead set. It may be a little on the pricy side, but you’re paying for quality. It is well worth the extra investment.
