10 Best Air Ratchets 2025 in the United States

The Milwaukee 2457-20 M12 Cordless 3/8" Sub-Compact Ratchet is a handy tool for those who need a portable and efficient air-ratchet for their tasks. With a torque of 35 ft-lbs, it is powerful enough for most light to medium-duty applications. The speed (RPM) of 250 ensures that it can handle tasks quickly and efficiently. Its 3/8" drive size makes it versatile for a variety of sockets and fasteners. The tool is lightweight, weighing only 1 pound, which minimizes user fatigue during extended use.

Additionally, its low profile head design allows you to work in tight spaces, such as engine bays, without any issues. A variable speed trigger gives you control over your work, providing precision for different tasks. The onboard fuel gauge is a useful feature that helps you monitor the remaining power, so you're not caught off guard with a dead tool. LED lighting is another thoughtful addition, making it easier to work in dimly lit environments. The recessed forward-backward switch helps prevent accidental direction changes, adding to the convenience.

One potential drawback is the noise level, which could be higher compared to other models. Also, it’s important to note that the battery is not included, which means you need to purchase it separately, potentially adding to the initial cost. This tool is most suited for DIY enthusiasts, mechanics, and professionals who need a reliable and portable ratchet for everyday tasks.

The DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Cordless Ratchet is a strong contender in the cordless ratchet category, particularly suited for users who need a reliable tool for various fastening tasks. With its brushless motor, it delivers an impressive torque of up to 70 ft-lbs, which allows it to handle a wide range of fasteners efficiently. The variable speed trigger is a great feature that enables you to adjust the speed based on your specific needs, providing added control during use.

One of the standout features is its compact design and low-profile head, making it easier to access tight spaces where traditional wrenches might struggle. Additionally, its integrated LED work light is a nice touch, illuminating your workspace for better visibility, especially in dim areas.

This ratchet is battery-operated, meaning you’ll need to purchase a DEWALT 20V MAX battery and charger separately if you don’t already own them. While this adds to the initial cost, the benefit is that you can interchange batteries with other DEWALT tools, which is handy if you have multiple devices. The tool weighs just 2.63 pounds, making it lightweight and easy to handle, but some users might prefer a bit more heft for stability.

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Ratchet stands out in the air-ratchet category, especially for those working on automotive projects or needing a compact tool for tight spaces. One of its key strengths is the interchangeable anvil design, allowing for quick switching between 3/8" and 1/2" square drives, which enhances versatility. Its brushless motor delivers a respectable 75 ft-lbs of torque, and with a no-load speed of 0-300 RPM, it offers sufficient power for most tasks. The weight of just 3.09 pounds makes it easy to handle and reduces user fatigue during extended use.

Additionally, the tool features an LED light for illuminating dark areas, a variable speed trigger for better control, and a forward/reverse switch that adds convenience when working in confined spaces. The durable glass-filled nylon housing is designed to resist damage from automotive oils and solvents, increasing the tool's longevity.

There are some drawbacks to consider. The tool is sold as a bare unit, meaning you'll need to purchase the battery separately, which can add to the overall cost. While the maximum torque is decent, it may not be sufficient for heavier-duty applications that require more power.