Found in flat-pack kits everywhere, Hex sets are one of the hand tools that are easy to overlook. These small shaped pieces of hexagonal metal may look simple, but they’re a toolbox essential, and it’s worth having the best set possible ready as most modern cars will use Hex screws, often to hold trim pieces on.
But what are Hex sets, and what are their uses? You may have heard these referred to by another name, Allen Keys. There is no difference between the two tools, and both names are correct.
With the hexagonal shape, it’s easy to see where the name comes from, and they do the same job as normal screwdriver sets, but with hexagonal screws, you can get more torque.
The best hex sets at a glance:
Editor’s pick: Bondhus Hex Tip Key – View offer on Amazon
Best T-handle hex set: Draper Soft Grip ‘T’ Handle Hexagon and TX Star – View offer on Amazon
Best Ball ended set: Wera Metric L-Key Set – View offer on Amazon
Hex screws are standard on your car, and in your general garage tool kit, even Ikea furniture is put together with a wide array of hex screws. You’ll find hex screws on your bicycle and car, so having a decent set will do many jobs around the garage and home much more straightforwardly.
The Best Hex Sets
Editor's pick
They are much easier to hold and use than the Stanley but make sure you put them back in their place once you’ve used them, or you’re guaranteed to lose them.
Pros
- Easy to hold
- Low cost
Cons
- Easy to lose
| <strong>Number of keys</strong> | Nine |
| <strong>Material</strong> | Alloy Steel |
| <strong>Size range</strong> | 1.5mm – 10mm |
| <strong>Measurement system</strong> | Metric |
The best pocket-sized hex tool
Rrp: £9.89
Rrp: £9.89
You get eight screws ranging from 1.5 to 8mm which should suit most hex-threaded screws you could find throughout your vehicle.
Pros
- Easily packaged
- Easy to access screws and to grip onto
Cons
- Quality isn't the greatest
The best T-handle hex set
Also, with a hex key on two ends of the T, you can apply much more pressure to the screw if one is more stubborn to remove. The soft grip also makes it much more ergonomic and pleasant to use.
Pros
- Ergonomic handle
- Ball end on the long arm
Cons
- Will take up more space
| <strong>Number of keys</strong> | 20 |
| <strong>Material</strong> | Chrome Vanadium Steel |
| <strong>Size range</strong> | Not Given |
| <strong>Measurement system</strong> | Metric |
The best ball ended hex set
The ball end on the long shaft also makes these a versatile option as you’ll also be able to get to those hard-to-reach screws.
Pros
- Colour coded
- Ball-end for hard-to-reach screws
- Nicely packaged
Cons
- While the storage case is neat, it can be fiddly
| <strong>Number of keys</strong> | Nine |
| <strong>Material</strong> | Silver |
| <strong>Size range</strong> | 1.4-10 |
| <strong>Measurement system</strong> | Metric |
The best all-in-one hex set
There are also hex key heads for your screwdriver in this lovely little 44-piece set which will even attach to your garage wall.
Pros
- Nicely organised
- Colour coded
Cons
- Not one for your toolbox
| <strong>Number of keys</strong> | 44-piece set |
| <strong>Material</strong> | Chrome Vanadium steel |
| <strong>Size range</strong> | Not Given |
| <strong>Measurement system</strong> | Metric |
The best P-Handle hex wrench set
These P-handle options are handy to have on your garage wall near your working area, where they'll help you work efficiently and with a real quality feel. to everything. With eight hex keys included, it should cover most bases.
Pros
- Respected brand
- Wide range of wrenches
Cons
- Not that many pieces for the price
| <strong>Number of keys</strong> | 44-piece set |
| <strong>Material</strong> | Chrome Vanadium steel |
| <strong>Size range</strong> | Not Given |
| <strong>Measurement system</strong> | Metric |
Most comprehensive hex set
You get a handy storage case to keep the screws organised and each one should fit nicely into hex-type screws throughout your vehicle.
Pros
- Well-organised
- Comprehensive set of sizes
Cons
- Not ideal if you prefer all screws in one multi tool
What you need to know about Hex Sets
What does a they do?
Hex sets (also known as Allen keys) do effectively the same job as screwdrivers but for hexagonal screw heads. Some even reference multitool items but embrace a set of screws.
Why do you need one?
Hex screws are common sites around the home and car and as a result, it’s a good idea to have a range of tools designed to tackle them with ease. Some will contain a couple of hex bits, but a proper set of hex keys will be easier to use. While not as ubiquitous as bolts that require a good socket set to deal with, a Hex Set is still worth using for car care.
Brand wise, like with screwdrivers, both Wera and Facom would be our budget-busting choices for hex sets. They’re not a million times better than a budget set, but they’ll be a lot nicer to use and filled with clever ergonomic touches. On the more budget end of the scale, we’d look for Stanley, Draper or Bondhus. If you’re struggling with organising your hex keys, a magnetic tool tray is a great option when you need to tackle jobs on your car.
Ryan Gilmore is the Deputy Autos and Tools Editor for Parkers, specialising in car cleaning and hand tools. A veteran car cleaner; if it details, waxes or washes he’ll be on hand to make sure it’s worth your money.
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