We Use CookiesWe use cookies to enhance the security, performance, functionality and for analytical and promotional activities. By continuing to browse this site you are agreeing to our privacy policy

10 Best Electric Ratchet 2025 in the United States

How do we rank products for you?

Our technology thoroughly searches through the online shopping world, reviewing hundreds of sites. We then process and analyze this information, updating in real-time to bring you the latest top-rated products. This way, you always get the best and most current options available.

headphones-stars

Our Top Picks

#1

Winner

Milwaukee 2457-20 M12 Cordless 3/8" Sub-Compact 35 ft-Lbs 250 RPM Ratchet w/ Variable Speed Trigger

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,252
Torque
Battery Life
Size and Weight

Most important from
7326 reviews

Torque
It's perfect for light to medium-duty applications, though heavy-duty tasks may require manual tools.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, especially with the XC series battery, ensuring it lasts through multiple uses.
Size and Weight
This tool is excellent for quick, small tasks, especially in tight or awkward spaces.
Build Quality and Durability
The build quality is reliable and sturdy, living up to the Milwaukee brand's reputation.

The Milwaukee 2457-20 M12 Cordless Ratchet is a handy tool for those needing a sub-compact solution with decent power. With a torque of 35 ft-lbs and a speed of 250 RPM, it delivers sufficient performance for various tasks, especially in tight spaces, thanks to its low-profile head design. The variable speed trigger gives you control over the speed, which is useful for different types of applications. At 1 pound, it's lightweight and easy to handle, reducing fatigue during prolonged use.

The build quality is solid, constructed from alloy steel and plastic, offering durability for frequent use. Ergonomically, it’s designed well with a recessed forward-backward switch to prevent accidental direction changes and an onboard fuel gauge to keep track of battery life. The LED lighting is a convenient feature for working in dimly lit areas.

However, it’s worth noting that the battery is not included, which may require an additional purchase if you don't already own an M12 battery. This ratchet is a good fit for mechanics, DIY enthusiasts, and anyone needing a compact and reliable tool for tight and hard-to-reach areas.

Rating
9.8
Chosen by1,252
Torque
Battery Life
Size and Weight

Most important from
7326 reviews

Torque
It's perfect for light to medium-duty applications, though heavy-duty tasks may require manual tools.
Battery Life
Battery life is impressive, especially with the XC series battery, ensuring it lasts through multiple uses.
Size and Weight
This tool is excellent for quick, small tasks, especially in tight or awkward spaces.
Build Quality and Durability
The build quality is reliable and sturdy, living up to the Milwaukee brand's reputation.
#2

DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Ratchet, 3/8" and 1/2" Sealed Head Ratchet, Bare Tool Only (DCF510B)

Rating
9.6
Torque
Speed
Size and Weight

Most important from
757 reviews

Torque
Be cautious of its high torque; it can snap smaller bolts.
Speed
Saves a lot of time compared to a manual ratchet.
Size and Weight
Easy to handle and fits in tight spaces.
Build Quality and Durability
The interchangeable head design means you only need to carry one tool instead of two.
Ergonomics
Makes tasks like changing running boards much easier.

The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Ratchet is a solid choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts who need an efficient tool for automotive work and other applications where speed and torque are essential. One of its standout features is the brushless motor, which provides a maximum torque of 75 ft-lbs and a no-load speed of up to 300 RPM, making it well-suited for tackling stubborn bolts and fasteners. The interchangeable anvil design that allows users to switch between 3/8" and 1/2" square drives adds versatility, accommodating various tasks easily.

In terms of portability, the tool is relatively lightweight at just over 3 pounds, which makes it easy to handle for extended periods. It also features a variable speed trigger, giving users the ability to adjust the speed according to their specific needs, along with a forward/reverse switch for ease of use in tight spaces.

Durability is another strong point, as the glass-filled nylon housing is designed to withstand exposure to automotive oils and solvents, ensuring the tool has a longer lifespan. The built-in LED light is a nice touch, illuminating dark work areas for better visibility. However, it's important to note that this model is sold as a bare tool, meaning you'll need to purchase the battery and charger separately if you don’t already own DEWALT’s 20V MAX systems. This could be a downside for users looking for an all-in-one package. Additionally, while the torque is adequate for most home and light industrial tasks, those requiring significantly higher torque might find this tool lacking. The DEWALT 20V MAX XR Cordless Ratchet is a strong candidate for those looking for a reliable electric ratchet with impressive features for general use, with pros that outweigh the cons for most users, particularly in terms of performance and ease of use.

Rating
9.6
Torque
Speed
Size and Weight

Most important from
757 reviews

Torque
Be cautious of its high torque; it can snap smaller bolts.
Speed
Saves a lot of time compared to a manual ratchet.
Size and Weight
Easy to handle and fits in tight spaces.
Build Quality and Durability
The interchangeable head design means you only need to carry one tool instead of two.
Ergonomics
Makes tasks like changing running boards much easier.
#3

DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX* Cordless Ratchet, Brushless, 3/8 in., Tool Only (DCF513B)

Rating
9.4
Torque
Battery Life
Size and Weight

Most important from
1241 reviews

Torque
The brushless motor delivers impressive power, providing ample torque for a variety of tasks, and the 20V battery ensures decent runtime with a quick-charging feature.
Battery Life
The brushless motor delivers impressive power, providing ample torque for a variety of tasks, and the 20V battery ensures decent runtime with a quick-charging feature.
Size and Weight
Despite its smaller size, the tool feels robust and well-built, with an ergonomic grip ensuring comfortable use even during extended periods.
Build Quality and Durability
The DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX Cordless Ratchet is a game-changer in the world of compact power tools, combining performance and versatility in a robust, well-built design.
Ergonomics
Despite its smaller size, the tool feels robust and well-built, with an ergonomic grip ensuring comfortable use even during extended periods.

The DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX Cordless Ratchet is a solid choice for both DIY enthusiasts and professionals who need a reliable tool for various fastener tasks. One of its standout features is the brushless motor, which delivers an impressive 70 ft-lbs of torque, making it effective for a wide range of applications. This high torque allows users to tackle tougher jobs without the struggle of manual ratchets.

In terms of usability, the ratchet has a compact design and a low-profile head, enabling it to easily fit into tight spaces—an essential feature for those working in confined areas. The variable speed trigger is another highlight, allowing users to adjust the speed to match different tasks, which enhances control and precision.

Battery life can be a concern for many cordless tools, but this ratchet is compatible with all DEWALT 20V MAX batteries, which provides flexibility. However, keep in mind that batteries and chargers are sold separately, so you'll need to account for that extra cost if you don’t already own DEWALT products. In terms of build quality, the ratchet features glass-filled nylon housing, which helps protect it from damage caused by oils and solvents. This is a thoughtful design choice, especially for those who may work in more challenging conditions. The onboard LED work light is a welcome addition, illuminating dark workspaces and making it easier to see what you’re doing. On the downside, weighing in at 2.63 pounds, it may feel a bit heavy for prolonged use, especially if you're working overhead or in awkward positions. Additionally, some users might find it slightly larger compared to other models, which could be a factor in very tight spaces. The DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX Cordless Ratchet is a high-performing tool that caters well to those needing a durable, powerful, and versatile electric ratchet, although potential buyers should consider battery costs and weight when making their decision.

Rating
9.4
Torque
Battery Life
Size and Weight

Most important from
1241 reviews

Torque
The brushless motor delivers impressive power, providing ample torque for a variety of tasks, and the 20V battery ensures decent runtime with a quick-charging feature.
Battery Life
The brushless motor delivers impressive power, providing ample torque for a variety of tasks, and the 20V battery ensures decent runtime with a quick-charging feature.
Size and Weight
Despite its smaller size, the tool feels robust and well-built, with an ergonomic grip ensuring comfortable use even during extended periods.
Build Quality and Durability
The DEWALT ATOMIC 20V MAX Cordless Ratchet is a game-changer in the world of compact power tools, combining performance and versatility in a robust, well-built design.
Ergonomics
Despite its smaller size, the tool feels robust and well-built, with an ergonomic grip ensuring comfortable use even during extended periods.

Buying Guide for the Best Electric Ratchet

Choosing the right electric ratchet can make your work more efficient and less physically demanding. Electric ratchets are versatile tools that can be used for a variety of tasks, from automotive repairs to assembling furniture. When selecting an electric ratchet, it's important to consider several key specifications to ensure you get the best tool for your needs. Understanding these specs will help you make an informed decision and choose a product that fits your specific requirements.
TorqueTorque is the amount of rotational force the ratchet can apply. This is important because it determines how effectively the tool can tighten or loosen bolts and nuts. Torque is usually measured in foot-pounds (ft-lbs) or Newton-meters (Nm). For light tasks, such as assembling furniture, a lower torque (around 20-30 ft-lbs) is sufficient. For automotive work or more demanding tasks, you might need a higher torque (40-60 ft-lbs or more). Consider the types of jobs you'll be doing most often to determine the right torque for you.
SpeedSpeed refers to how fast the ratchet can rotate, usually measured in revolutions per minute (RPM). Higher speeds allow you to complete tasks more quickly, but they can also be harder to control. For precision work, a lower speed (around 150-200 RPM) is ideal. For general use or when speed is more important than precision, a higher speed (250-300 RPM or more) might be better. Think about whether you prioritize speed or control in your work to choose the right speed.
Battery LifeBattery life indicates how long the ratchet can operate on a single charge. This is crucial for uninterrupted work, especially if you don't have easy access to a power source. Battery life is often measured in ampere-hours (Ah). A higher Ah rating means longer battery life. For occasional use, a battery with 1.5-2.0 Ah might be sufficient. For more frequent or intensive use, look for batteries with 3.0 Ah or higher. Consider how long and how often you'll be using the tool to determine the right battery life for you.
Size and WeightThe size and weight of the electric ratchet affect its ease of use and portability. A lighter, more compact ratchet is easier to handle and can be used in tight spaces, but it might have less power. Heavier, larger ratchets are usually more powerful but can be tiring to use for extended periods. If you need to work in confined areas or carry the tool around frequently, a smaller, lighter model might be best. For heavy-duty tasks where power is more important, a larger, heavier ratchet could be more suitable.
Build Quality and DurabilityBuild quality and durability determine how long the ratchet will last and how well it can withstand tough working conditions. Look for ratchets made from high-quality materials like metal gears and robust plastic or rubber housings. Durability is especially important if you plan to use the tool frequently or in harsh environments. Check for features like water and dust resistance, and read reviews to get an idea of the tool's longevity. Choose a ratchet that matches the intensity and frequency of your work.
ErgonomicsErgonomics refers to how comfortable and easy the ratchet is to use. This includes the design of the handle, the weight distribution, and the ease of accessing controls. A well-designed, ergonomic ratchet reduces hand fatigue and makes it easier to use the tool for extended periods. Look for features like cushioned grips, balanced weight, and intuitive control placement. If you plan to use the ratchet for long periods or have any hand or wrist issues, prioritizing ergonomics is essential.

FAQ

Most Popular Categories Right Now