The torque wrench applies an appropriate amount of torque to a fastener and is used in conjunction with a socket in many applications.
Having the best digital torque wrench ensures that you get your automotive work done in a breeze. Our digital torque wrench reviews will help you find the model that fits your needs.
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Benefits of Digital Torque Wrenches Over Other Types
It isn’t easy finding the appropriate torque level. With your standard wrench, you can’t ever tell if it is right or not. By using the best digital battery torque wrench, you receive more accurate readings.
As long as you use the appropriate torque wrench, you will know precisely what your ratcheting accomplished without having to guess.
This type of precision saves you lots of time and allows you to complete jobs faster.
Digital Torque Wrench Comparison Table
Preview | Product | Torque Range | Drive Sizes | Check Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CDI 1002CF3 Drive Computorq 3 | 10-100 ft-lbs. | 1/2”, 1/4”, 3/8” | |
| Checkline DTW-625F | 625 ft-lbs. | 1/2”, 1/4”, 3/8”, 3/4” | |
| GEARWRENCH 85078 | 10-100 ft-lbs. | 1/2”, 3/8”, | |
| ACDelco Tools ARM601-4 | 10-100 ft-lbs. | 1/2” | |
| Kobalt 856838 | 5-100 ft-lbs. | 1/2”, 3/8” | |
| BikeMaster Digital Torque | 2.2-22.1 ft-lbs. | 1/4” | |
| ACDelco Tools ARM303-4A | 12.5-250.7 ft-lbs. | 1/2” |
Buying a Quality Digital Torque Wrench
Drive Size
You will find digital wrenches in a variety of sizes. Before you decide if you need the best 1/4 digital torque wrench or a 3/8 digital torque wrench, you need to know what you plan to use it for. If you plan to use the wrench for heavy-duty applications, you want a larger tool. These also tend to have a higher level of torqueing power.
Build Quality
Even the best cheap digital torque wrench can provide inaccurate readings. Additionally, if the tool isn’t made with high-quality materials, you risk it breaking in the middle of your work. To determine if a torque wrench is worth the money, read through the reviews to see what other customers thought.
Display
Obviously, the most significant difference between these options and the manual torque wrench is the display. Having a digital display makes everything easier, but you need to evaluate how it is made. After all, if you can't see the read-out, it won't do you much good. With a backlit display, you will be able to read the specs in low-light areas.
Torque Range
The torque range is one of the most important considerations to evaluate. This range determines what the wrench can handle without breaking. If you plan to work on heavy-duty applications, look for a torque wrench where the upper limit reaches 100 foot-pounds. Otherwise, you won’t need as much capability with your everyday jobs.
Digital Features
Along with the display, there are several other digital features to consider when shopping.
Range of Flexibility
There are several digital torque wrenches that come with a flexible head to add more flexibility. With a swivel head, you get minimal flexibility, but even a few degrees prove to be useful in certain applications. It’s especially helpful if your job is in a tight or awkward space. However, if you are looking for the sturdiest wrench, you might not want any flexibility.
Accuracy
Overall digital torque wrenches are extremely accurate when reading over 20 foot-pounds of pressure. If you are looking to read less than this, you might not be satisfied with the results. Additionally, you want to read reviews to make sure the wrench is considered accurate. If the company claims to provide three-percent or less accuracy variability, you know it’s worth investing in.
Comfortable Grip
If you only plan to use the tool occasionally, you might not be as concerned about the grip. However, anyone planning to use the torque wrench often will want to evaluate the grip. If the handle is comfortable, tightening will become easier, and you will prevent blisters on your hands.
Unit of Measurement
You will find two main units of measurement – imperial and metric. The imperial system is based on imperial units. This is mainly used in the United States and consists of feet, inches, or pounds. Elsewhere in the world, you find the metric system used, which includes grams and meters. Thankfully, there are torque wrenches that use either the imperial or metric system, while some offer both. Make sure you purchase the tool that fits your needs.
Battery Type
To get the most use out of your tool, you want a strong battery. As you use the digital torque wrench, you want the power to last as long as possible. While using the older nickel-cadmium batteries is often found in the best budget digital torque wrench, it won't provide the longevity you are hoping for. Instead, consider investing in a tool with lithium-ion batteries.
7 Best Digital Torque Wrenches Reviewed
1. CDI 1002CF3 Drive Computorq 3
Best Digital Torque Wrench
Torque Range | 10-100 ft-lbs. |
Drive Sizes | 1/2”, 1/4”, 3/8” |
Accuracy | ±2% |
Measurement Options | Ft-lbs, in-lbs, Nm., Kg-cm |
With Angle | Yes |
In our opinion, the best 3/8 digital torque wrench is this option from CDI. This model is rated for 10 to 100 foot-pounds, but there are some other options. Consider the 1/2” 25 to 250 foot-pounds or the 1/4” 24 to 240 foot-pounds model instead. The digital display provides real-time torque values in four units. Plus, you won’t have any difficulty getting into tight spots with the 15-degree flex ratcheting head.
This wrench contains lithium-ion batteries to ensure a long life. It also comes complete with an ergonomically designed non-slip rubber grip for absolute comfort. With this wrench, you can easily pull up the last torque setting. Plus, it contains audible sounds when you reach the appropriate torque value. If you exceed this amount, the alarm sounds instead.
What concerns some users about this wrench is the price. Because it does come with a slightly higher cost, we recommend this wrench for a mechanic or someone that plans to use it often. However, the company is gracious enough to provide a limited lifetime warranty. If the tool breaks because of a defect, you will be able to get a new one. That’s a great guarantee to have when investing this much money.
Pros
Cons
2. Checkline DTW-625F
Top of the Range
Torque Range | 625 ft-lbs. |
Drive Sizes | 1/2”, 1/4”, 3/8”, 3/4” |
Accuracy | ±2.5% |
Measurement Options | Ft-lbs, in-lbs, Nm. |
With Angle | No |
As a professional mechanic, you want the best of the best. This digital inch pound torque wrench comes with a 3/4” drive and is capable of handling 625 lb-ft. However, there are also a multitude of other options that handle a variety of sizes and measurements. Overall, the accuracy of this model reaches ±2.5% of indicated CCW.
This electronic torque wrench provides precise, yet simple measurements throughout the automotive, industrial, or aerospace applications. It also comes with a real-time and peak torque display in ft-lb, in-lb or N-m measurements, all of which are user selected. This torque wrench includes a target setpoint. When you apply your desired torque value, it will provide an audible beep and LED indication when that target is reached.
The company provides a calibration certificate with the purchase and a one-year warranty. While the customers are beyond thrilled with the performance, it seems there should have been a longer warranty term considering the money. If you don’t require this much capacity, it might be better to save a little money and choose one of the other options from the company. Overall, you can’t ask for a better build or higher-quality materials than this company provides.
Pros
Cons
3. GEARWRENCH 85078
Best Digital Torque Wrench With Angle
Torque Range | 10-100 ft-lbs. |
Drive Sizes | 1/2”, 3/8”, |
Accuracy | ±2% |
Measurement Options | Ft-lbs, in-lbs, Nm., Kg-m, Kg-cm |
With Angle | Yes |
You don’t have to spend too much money to get the capability you need. This GEARWRENCH model provides a 3/8” drive with 10-100 ft-lbs. Additionally, this model includes an angle, but you can choose a 3/8” drive without an angle. There are further options to choose the 1/2” drive, with or without the angle.
With the target torque alert setting, you get a warning as you approach your target. The handle vibrates, the buzzer goes off, and the LED light indicates when you have reached the target. Plus, the 72-tooth ratchet mechanism offers a five-degree swing arc to help you turn bolts in tighter spaces with ease. Even though the cost is lower than the first two options, you still get a tool with maximum durability. The housing and handle are both solvent and oil-resistant.
You can choose three function modes and five torque measurements for a completely accurate reading. On top of that, the torque accuracy is rated at +/-2% CW, while the angle settings are measured at +/-1%. Plus, the company provides a limited lifetime warranty for additional peace of mind. The only downside listed by customers is the speed at which this tool goes through batteries. However, many people aren’t disappointed because of how accurate and versatile it is.
Pros
Cons
4. ACDelco Tools ARM601-4
Best Digital Torque Wrench for the Money
Torque Range | 10-100 ft-lbs. |
Drive Sizes | 1/2”, |
Accuracy | ±2% |
Measurement Options | Ft-lbs, in-lbs, Nm., Kg-cm |
With Angle | No |
ACDelco proves that you can find the best budget 1/2” digital torque wrench without sacrificing features. This 10-100 ft-lbs model comes with plenty of advanced features. For example, the LED light flashes and the buzzer alarms when you reach your target torque. There is also an easy to read display that can be used anywhere for accurate measurement readings. Choose from one of the multiple setting functions to get the job done right.
Additionally, this model is rated at 2% clockwise accuracy, which is why many professional mechanics rely on the brand. It also uses lithium-ion batteries, which provide plenty of use between replacements. When the time comes to change the batteries, you might have a little difficulty. Some of the reviews suggest that it takes a little extra effort than expected.
If this is the biggest complaint customers have, it doesn’t seem like much to worry about, especially considering the price. The only thing that the company does lack in order to keep this budget-friendly is the warranty term. ACDelco only offers a one-year warranty against defects. But, as you can see from the reviews, most people aren’t having trouble with the durability. We recommend this tool if you want professional measurements on a budget.
Pros
Cons
5. Kobalt 856838
Packed with Features
Torque Range | 5-100 ft-lbs. |
Drive Sizes | 1/2”, 3/8” |
Accuracy | ±3% |
Measurement Options | Ft-lbs, in-lbs, Nm., Kg-cm |
With Angle | Yes |
You don’t have to spend a lot to get all of the greatest features. Kobalt provides both this 3/8” torque wrench and the best 1/2” digital torque wrench. With this tool, you gain a variety of read-outs and torque accuracy of +/- 3%. When the torque value is reached, you will receive two visual and auditory signals. The repeated beeps combined with a green light indicator tell you when ninety percent of the torque value has been reached. Then, a long beep is provided when you reach the desired amount.
Additionally, this model comes with a five-button control pad to set your torque value, change the operation model, save readings, and select the unit of measure. The LCD is simple to read, no matter what the lighting situation is. There aren't as many reviews yet on this model, but what is available is off the charts.
Overall, the brand is reputable, and this tool comes with some of the best features on the market. Plus, this digital torque wrench with angle comes with a limited lifetime warranty, which makes the value skyrocket. If you want a professional torque wrench with all the best features, you can’t go wrong with a Kobalt tool.
Pros
Cons
6. BikeMaster Digital Torque
Best for Bikes and Motorcycles
Torque Range | 2.2-22.1 ft-lbs. |
Drive Sizes | 1/4” |
Accuracy | unknown |
Measurement Options | Ft-lbs, in-lbs, Nm., Kg-cm, Kg-m |
With Angle | No |
If you have a bike or motorcycle, you will fare better with this model from BikeMaster. It comes with an easy to read digital display and automatically shuts off. Additionally, it works with five units of measurement to give you ultimate flexibility. The Track and Peak modes allow you to log your highest torque for future reference.
This 1/4” drive provides 2.2-22.1 ft-lbs of range, ideal for any smaller bike or motorcycle. Additionally, the company set the gauge up with a flashing red light and alarm when you reach your set torque value. With this feature, there's very little to think about, and you can't possibly do the job wrong. Plus, this tool is provided to customers with a heavy-duty protective carrying case, making it simple to use this tool on the go.
This isn’t a heavy-duty torque wrench. You wouldn’t purchase this model to deal with most everyday applications. However, if you need something with less capability, there’s no reason to spend more on a larger model. This will get the job done effectively and efficiently. Plus, the company provides a one-year warranty, which isn’t bad considering the cheap price. Get ready to work on your motorcycle or bike with ease.
Pros
Cons
7. ACDelco Tools 1/2” ARM303-4A
Best 1/2 inch Digital Torque Wrench
Torque Range | 12.5-250.7 ft-lbs. |
Drive Sizes | 1/2” |
Accuracy | ±1.5% |
Measurement Options | Ft-lbs, in-lbs, Nm., Kg-cm |
With Angle | Yes |
We have one more option for you from ACDelco. This 1/2” digital torque wrench features a reversible, 72-tooth ratchet head that measures the torque both clockwise and counter-clockwise. Furthermore, it comes with an anti-slip grip that is made of industrial-grade materials for a comfortable feel. This particular wrench comes with a torque measurement range between 12.5-250.7 ft-lbs, which is exceptional for the price.
It also boasts of +/- 1.5% accuracy levels, so you know you are getting the job done right. The LCD display shows battery level, torque setting, measurement modes, and angle degree. You can choose from four measurement modes to complement any job. Additionally, you don't have to worry about the durability of this product because it is made from a hardened steel alloy body and contains a high-density protective foam interior.
When you reach the desired setting, you will hear the buzzer, see the LED light flash and feel a vibration. Sadly, this tool uses AA batteries, which it can go through quite quickly. It also only comes with a one-year limited warranty, which doesn't feel like much protection. However, most customers have nothing but great things to say about the use, durability, and accuracy of this torque wrench.
Pros
Cons
Tips When Using Torque Wrenches
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using your torque wrench.
Here are a few tips to keep in mind when using your torque wrench.
People Also Ask (FAQs)
Do I need to calibrate my digital torque wrench? How often?
You should calibrate your digital torque wrench to provide more accurate readings. You can have this performed by a professional mechanic or do it at home. Consider calibration every year or after 5,000 cycles, whichever occurs first.
How do I calibrate my digital torque wrench?
You should read the owner’s manual to determine the appropriate way to calibrate a digital torque wrench. The steps are going to be different than the calibration of a standard torque wrench.
How much should I spend on a digital torque wrench?
You get what you pay for. Sure, you can purchase a cheap $25 digital torque wrench, but will you receive the accuracy and features you need? On the other end of the spectrum, you won’t have any trouble finding digital torque wrenches that cost several hundred dollars. This is a great option if you are a professional mechanic, but if you only use it once a month, you might not need this level of accuracy. Evaluate the features you need and how often you will use it to find the best value.
Who is best suited to using a digital torque wrench?
The best part about owning a digital torque wrench is that the tool is simple to use. You don’t need to be a professional mechanic to figure out the operation. While amateurs and home mechanics can find lots of success with the right model, it’s even more important for the professional shop mechanic to find an accurate and feature-filled model.
Conclusion
If you want the best digital torque wrench (3/8), the CDI 1002CF3 Drive Computorq 3 is sure to please you. It’s not only highly-rated and flexible but durable and highly accurate. This torque wrench is sure to make any tightening job easier.