You want one case
You do not already own 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch ratchets, and you want them in one case. Compare the two 192-piece kits, then check the live price. The Super Lock case is the top pick in this set.
BGS socket set comparison 2026
The best BGS socket sets, compared.
Top pick: BGS 2267 21-piece 1/2 inch 12-point sockets Best value: BGS 2226 16-piece 1/2 inch 12-point sockets – Highest value part that is not the top pick: about £18.14 for 8–24 mm, including 20 mm. Updated October 2026.
A socket set is a box or rail of interchangeable sockets that fit the square on a ratchet. In the UK you buy one for car repairs and workshop nuts a spanner cannot reach. A suitable set matches the drive you already own, or it includes 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch drives if you still need a ratchet. The printed size list matters more than the piece count. Metric and inch sizes are different jobs, and a gap in the list will not cover that nut. Check the opening next: a wave profile, a hexagon, a twelve-point, or a slotted socket for a sensor or a bent pipe. Chrome vanadium on a hand set is for a ratchet you turn by hand, not for an impact wrench. A case or a tray keeps the sizes together. A rail assumes the matching ratchet is already on the bench. Read the [socket set buying guide](/hub/hand-tools/bgs-socket-set/sub/bgs-socket-set-buying-guide) before you treat a large piece count as a complete kit. A stuck wheel nut, or brake work you cannot finish, is a garage job.
A socket set is a box or rail of interchangeable sockets that fit the square on a ratchet. In the UK you buy one for car repairs and workshop nuts a spanner cannot reach.
36 products checked · 58 hrs invested · +24,100 readers
11 of 11: Best BGS socket sets compared
Swipe for more
1-2 of 11Best overall
Best value
6.6/10
7.6/10
7.9/10
7.2/10
7.5/10
6.9/10
8.4/10
8.4/10
7.0/10
7.8/10
6.3/10
∼ £27
∼ £5
∼ £18
∼ £13
∼ £13
∼ £189
∼ £67
∼ £54
∼ £15
∼ £32
∼ £21
4.8(467)
4.7(1,315)
4.7(725)
4.7(586)
4.7(234)
4.7(216)
4.6(2,326)
4.6(1,875)
4.6(975)
4.6(574)
4.6(158)
Personal buying guide
Which socket set fits you?
Question 1 of 2
Do you already own the ratchet?
The best BGS socket sets in detail
Our view
BGS 2267 is a 21-piece 1/2 inch 12-point set at about £27.33, rated 4.8 from 467 reviews, with no review text in the saved listing. It is the rail in this sample that reaches 34 mm and 36 mm. The bullet lists 8 mm to 22 mm in 1 mm steps, then 24, 27, 30, 32, 34 and 36 mm. It does not include a ratchet, storage is not stated, and the country field says China. The listed weight is 2.53 kg. The high star line does not make this the top pick, because the file has no UK review text.
Pros
- 21 twelve-point sockets from 8 mm to 36 mm, including 34 mm and 36 mm
- 4.8 from 467 reviews, the highest star line in this file
- Chrome vanadium, satin chrome, knurled, listed weight 2.53 kg
Cons
- No UK review text, so the 4.8 does not describe a job or a fault
- No ratchet is listed
- Storage is not stated
Best for: You already have a 1/2 inch drive and the fastener is 34 mm or 36 mm.
Less suitable: You want review comments, a ratchet in the box, or a cased three-drive kit.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 2267 21-piece 1/2 inch 12-point sockets
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£27
- Customer rating
- 4.8/5(467)
- Set type
- Sockets only
- Opening
- 12-point
- Drive
- 1/2 inch
- Size range
- 8–36 mm, stepped
- Pieces
- 21
- Ratchet
- No
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 2.53 kg
- Origin
- China
Common questions
How far do the sizes go?
The bullet lists 8 mm to 22 mm in 1 mm steps, then 24, 27, 30, 32, 34 and 36 mm. That is 21 sockets.
Is a ratchet included?
No ratchet is listed. You need a 1/2 inch drive you already own.
What do the reviews say?
The rating line is 4.8 from 467 reviews. The saved listing has no UK review text.
Our view
BGS 2433 is an 11-piece 1/4 inch hexagon rail in inch sizes at about £5.13, with 4.7 from 1,315 reviews. The printed range is 3/16 inch to 1/2 inch on a knurled rail. The one UK review praises the knurl and states no fault. It is not a metric starter set and it does not include a ratchet. The set-name field says hex key set, while the title and bullets say hexagon sockets. The country field says China and the listed weight is 0.22 kg.
Pros
- About £5.13, with 4.7 from 1,315 reviews
- Hexagon Pro Torque from 3/16 inch to 1/2 inch, knurled, on a rail
- The one UK review praises the knurl and states no fault
- Chrome vanadium, listed weight 0.22 kg
Cons
- Inch sizes, so this is not a metric starter set
- No ratchet is included
- The set-name field says hex key set while the title and bullets say sockets
- Only one UK review text against 1,315 ratings
Best for: Inch hexagon sockets from 3/16 inch to 1/2 inch on a 1/4 inch drive you already own.
Less suitable: Metric work, a ratchet in the box, or a hex key set in the ordinary sense.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 2433 11-piece 1/4 inch hexagon sockets
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£5
- Customer rating
- 4.7/5(1,315)
- Set type
- Rail
- Opening
- Hexagon Pro Torque
- Drive
- 1/4 inch
- Size range
- 3/16–1/2 inch
- Pieces
- 11
- Ratchet
- No
- Storage
- Socket rail
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 0.22 kg
- Origin
- China
Common questions
Is this a hex key set?
The set-name field says hex key set. The title and bullets say hexagon sockets, 3/16 inch to 1/2 inch, on a 1/4 inch drive rail.
Does it include a ratchet?
No. It is 11 sockets on a rail.
What does the UK review say?
The one UK review in the file praises the knurled grip and the price. It states no fault. The rating line is 4.7 from 1,315 reviews.
Our view
BGS 2226 is a 16-piece 1/2 inch 12-point set at about £18.14, with 4.7 from 725 reviews. The sizes run 8–22 mm and then 24 mm, so 20 mm is included and 23 mm is not. It has no ratchet. The model field says 2229 while the part number says 2226. One review mentions 220 Nm. That is the reviewer’s wrench, not a rated torque. Its value part is the highest that is not the top pick, so it is the best value in this set. The country field says China and the listed weight is 1.24 kg.
Pros
- About £18.14, with 4.7 from 725 reviews
- 8–22 mm then 24 mm, so 20 mm is included
- Chrome vanadium, listed weight 1.24 kg
- UK reviews mention grip, including one use at 220 Nm on the reviewer’s own wrench
Cons
- No ratchet is included
- The model field says 2229 while the part number says 2226
- 23 mm is not listed
- A case appears in one review only, not in the specification lines
Best for: You already own a 1/2 inch ratchet and want 12-point sockets from 8 mm to 24 mm, including 20 mm.
Less suitable: You need 23 mm, a ratchet in the box, or a listing whose model number matches the part number.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 2226 16-piece 1/2 inch 12-point sockets
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£18
- Customer rating
- 4.7/5(725)
- Set type
- Sockets only
- Opening
- 12-point
- Drive
- 1/2 inch
- Size range
- 8–22 mm, then 24
- Pieces
- 16
- Ratchet
- No
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 1.24 kg
- Origin
- China
Common questions
Which sizes are in the set?
8 mm through 22 mm in 1 mm steps, plus 24 mm. 23 mm is not listed. The part number is 2226. The model-number field says 2229.
Does it include a ratchet?
No. The bullets list 16 twelve-point sockets only.
What do the five UK reviews mention?
Grip on fasteners, including one use at 220 Nm on the reviewer’s torque wrench, and a case in one review. The spec lines do not confirm a case. No split socket is described.
Our view
BGS 9105 is a 12-piece 3/8 inch 12-point rail at about £12.70, with 4.7 from 586 reviews. Sizes run 8–19 mm and there is no ratchet. One reviewer bought it for a 12-point motorcycle sprocket. The model field says 70102 and the part number says 9105. The drive is 3/8 inch, so these sockets will not go straight onto a 1/2 inch ratchet. The rail weighs 0.46 kg and the finish is satin. The country field says China.
Pros
- About £12.70, with 4.7 from 586 reviews
- 12 sockets from 8 mm to 19 mm on a 3/8 inch rail
- One reviewer bought it for a 12-point motorcycle sprocket
- Satin finish, chrome vanadium, listed weight 0.46 kg
Cons
- No ratchet is included
- It will not go straight onto a 1/2 inch ratchet
- The model field says 70102 and the part number says 9105
- The range stops at 19 mm
Best for: You already own a 3/8 inch ratchet and need 8–19 mm, including a 12-point motorcycle sprocket.
Less suitable: A 1/2 inch drive, sizes above 19 mm, or a listing with one model number.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 9105 12-piece 3/8 inch 12-point sockets
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£13
- Customer rating
- 4.7/5(586)
- Set type
- Rail
- Opening
- 12-point
- Drive
- 3/8 inch
- Size range
- 8–19 mm
- Pieces
- 12
- Ratchet
- No
- Storage
- Socket rail
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 0.46 kg
- Origin
- China
Common questions
What drive is this?
10 mm, which is 3/8 inch. It will not go straight onto a 1/2 inch ratchet.
Which sizes are included?
8 mm through 19 mm, 12 sockets, on a rail. No ratchet is listed.
Why do the model numbers differ?
The set name and part number say 9105. The model-number field says 70102. Both are printed on the listing.
Our view
BGS 9106 is an 11-piece 1/2 inch hexagon rail at about £12.90, with 4.7 from 234 reviews. The printed sizes are 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 21 mm. It skips 20 mm and does not include a ratchet. The one UK review in the file praises the rail and clips and states no fault. The country field says China. The rail weighs 0.7 kg and the finish line says satin chrome. You need a 1/2 inch drive you already own.
Pros
- About £12.90 for 11 hexagon 1/2 inch sockets on a rail
- Satin chrome, chrome vanadium, 0.7 kg, country field China
- 4.7 from 234 reviews; the one UK review praises the rail and clips
- Printed sizes from 10 mm to 21 mm
Cons
- 20 mm is not on the printed list
- No ratchet is included
- Only one UK review text sits against 234 reviews
Best for: You already own a 1/2 inch ratchet and want hexagon sockets from 10 mm to 21 mm, except 20 mm.
Less suitable: A 20 mm fastener, a first ratchet, or 12-point work.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 9106 11-piece 1/2 inch hexagon sockets
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£13
- Customer rating
- 4.7/5(234)
- Set type
- Rail
- Opening
- Hexagon
- Drive
- 1/2 inch
- Size range
- 10–21 mm, skips 20
- Pieces
- 11
- Ratchet
- No
- Storage
- Socket rail
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 0.7 kg
- Origin
- China
Common questions
Does it include a ratchet?
No. The listing is 11 hexagon sockets on a rail for a 1/2 inch drive you already own.
Which sizes are missing?
The printed list is 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17, 18, 19 and 21 mm. 20 mm is not listed.
Can the listing be read as an impact set?
No. It says chrome vanadium and satin chrome. An impact driver appears only as a question prompt.
Our view
BGS 4036 is a 192-piece hexagon Pro Torque set sold as a tool tray at about £188.51, with 4.7 from 216 reviews. The country field says China and the weight is 7.7 kg. The saved listing has no UK review text. It is the cabinet version of this kind of kit, not a cheap starter rail. The tray measures 567 mm wide, 408 mm deep and 48 mm high, and each drive has a 72-tooth ratchet. The 1/2 inch sockets are listed from 10 mm to 32 mm. Because the file has no UK review text, the star line does not name a fault or a job.
Pros
- 192-piece hexagon Pro Torque set in a 567 × 408 × 48 mm tray
- A 72-tooth ratchet on each of the three drives
- 1/2 inch sockets listed from 10 mm to 32 mm
- 4.7 from 216 reviews, listed weight 7.7 kg
Cons
- About £188.51, well above the cased 192-piece kits in this file
- No UK review text, so the star line does not name a fault
- Country of origin China, and the finish field is not stated
Best for: A cabinet or drawer that takes this tool tray, when you do not need a carry case.
Less suitable: A cheap starter rail, or a buy you want UK review comments for first.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 4036 192-piece socket tray
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£189
- Customer rating
- 4.7/5(216)
- Set type
- Tool tray
- Opening
- Hexagon Pro Torque
- Drive
- 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 in
- Size range
- 10–32 mm on 1/2 in
- Pieces
- 192
- Ratchet
- Yes
- Storage
- 567 × 408 × 48 mm
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 7.7 kg
- Origin
- China
Common questions
Is this a carry case?
No. It is a tool tray, 567 mm wide, 408 mm deep and 48 mm high. The recommended-use field says tool organisation.
Which opening does the tray use?
The bullets say hexagon Pro Torque, with a 72-tooth reversible ratchet on each of the three drives.
Are there UK review comments in the saved listing?
The rating line is 4.7 from 216 reviews. The saved listing has no UK review text, so faults are not described here.
Our view
BGS 2292 is the 192-piece Super Lock case at about £67.06 in the raw amazon.co.uk file, with 4.6 from 2,326 reviews. It has three drives, 72-tooth ratchets and chrome vanadium steel, and the country field says Germany. Reviewers praise the coverage. Some report play in the drive and a weak case lock. A later page view showed a higher shelf price, so check the live listing. It ties the hexagon 2243 on 84. The larger review count makes it the top pick. It is not an impact set.
Pros
- 192 pieces with 72-tooth ratchets on 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch
- Super Lock wave profile, chrome vanadium, country field Germany
- 4.6 from 2,326 reviews, the largest sample in this file
- Case mentioned in reviews; listed weight 8.75 kg
Cons
- Some reviews report play in the drive
- A weak case lock comes up in reviews
- A later page view showed a higher shelf price than £67.06
- The bullets do not claim impact-wrench use
Best for: You want one cased kit with all three drives and a Super Lock opening, and you will check the live price before you buy.
Less suitable: You want a hexagon Pro Torque opening, an impact set, or sockets only for a ratchet you already own.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 2292 Super Lock 192-piece socket set
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£67
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(2,326)
- Set type
- Cased kit
- Opening
- Super Lock wave
- Drive
- 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 in
- Size range
- To 32 mm, plus bits
- Pieces
- 192
- Ratchet
- Yes
- Storage
- Case
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 8.75 kg
- Origin
- Germany
Common questions
Does the BGS 2292 include ratchets?
Yes. The listing includes a reversible 72-tooth ratchet on the 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch drives, plus extensions, a universal joint and bits.
What opening does it use?
The bullets call it Super Lock, a wave profile. It is not the hexagon Pro Torque set, which is BGS 2243 in this sample.
Is it sold as an impact set?
No. The material line says chrome vanadium steel. The bullets do not claim impact-wrench use.
Our view
BGS 2243 is the hexagon Pro Torque 192-piece set at about £53.88 in the saved listing, with 4.6 from 1,875 reviews and Germany as the country of origin. Six UK reviews praise the weight and value. One workshop review says it will not last, without naming a broken part. The raw bullet does not reprint every socket size. The listing weight is 8.81 kg, with 72-tooth ratchets on the 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch drives. A carry case is not in the specification lines and appears only as a listing question. It scores 84, the same as the Super Lock case, which has more reviews.
Pros
- About £53.88 for a 192-piece hexagon Pro Torque kit
- 4.6 from 1,875 reviews; six UK reviews praise the weight and value
- 72-tooth ratchets on 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch, chrome vanadium
- Country of origin Germany, listed weight 8.81 kg
Cons
- One workshop review says it will not last, with no broken part named
- The raw bullet does not reprint every socket size
- A carry case is not in the specification lines
Best for: You want the hexagon Pro Torque 192-piece kit, rather than Super Lock, at the lower raw price of the two German sets.
Less suitable: You need every socket size printed, a confirmed case, or a single-drive rail.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 2243 hexagon 192-piece socket set
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£54
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(1,875)
- Set type
- Cased kit
- Opening
- Hexagon Pro Torque
- Drive
- 1/4, 3/8, 1/2 in
- Size range
- List not printed
- Pieces
- 192
- Ratchet
- Yes
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 8.81 kg
- Origin
- Germany
Common questions
How is the 2243 different from the 2292?
Both are 192-piece, three-drive, 72-tooth sets in chrome vanadium. The 2243 bullets say hexagon Pro Torque. The 2292 bullets say Super Lock wave profile.
Does the listing confirm a carry case?
The saved listing does not state a case in the specification lines. A case is only asked as a listing question.
Where does the listing say it is made?
The country of origin field says Germany. The weight is 8.81 kg and the raw price is about £53.88.
Our view
BGS 2755 is a 1/4 inch 12-point inch rail at about £15.19, with 4.6 from 975 reviews. The printed sizes run from 5/32 inch to 9/16 inch. 1/2 inch is not in that list. UK reviews often cite Harley-Davidson brakes. One reviewer says they round if given too much torque. Another reports daily aircraft use and a loose rail. The title says 12 pieces and the bullet names 11. There is no ratchet. The country field says China and the listed weight is 0.215 kg.
Pros
- Inch 12-point sockets on a 1/4 inch rail at about £15.19
- 4.6 from 975 reviews
- UK reviews often cite Harley-Davidson brake fasteners
- Satin chrome, chrome vanadium, listed weight 0.215 kg
Cons
- One reviewer says they round if given too much torque
- Another reports a loose rail in daily aircraft use
- The title says 12 pieces and the bullet names 11
- 1/2 inch is not in the printed list, and the sizes are not metric
Best for: Inch fasteners on a 1/4 inch drive you already own, including the Harley-Davidson brake sizes named in UK reviews.
Less suitable: Metric nuts, a high-torque job, or a twelfth size you assume from the title.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 2755 1/4 inch 12-point inch sockets
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£15
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(975)
- Set type
- Rail
- Opening
- 12-point inch
- Drive
- 1/4 inch
- Size range
- 5/32–9/16 inch
- Pieces
- 11 listed
- Ratchet
- No
- Storage
- Socket rail
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 0.215 kg
- Origin
- China
Common questions
Are these metric?
No. The printed sizes are inch, from 5/32 inch to 9/16 inch. 1/2 inch is not in that list.
Why do reviews mention Harley-Davidson?
Several UK reviews say the inch 12-point sizes fitted Harley-Davidson brake fasteners. That is review use, not a vehicle claim on the title.
Does the piece count match the list?
The title says 12 pieces. The bullet names 11 sockets, each with a BGS part number. Do not assume a twelfth size.
Our view
BGS 1105 is a seven-piece slotted 3/8 inch set at about £31.76, with 4.6 from 574 reviews. The listing says it is for sensors and nuts on bent pipes. Slot widths are printed from 7.4 mm to 14.4 mm. It skips 15 mm and 16 mm. The country field says Taiwan. The UK reviews in the file are short and do not describe a split socket. It is not a general 10–19 mm set, and it has no ratchet. The listed weight is 0.51 kg.
Pros
- Slotted 3/8 inch sockets for sensors and nuts on bent pipes
- Printed sizes 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17 and 19 mm
- 4.6 from 574 reviews
- Chrome vanadium, matt chrome, Taiwan, 0.51 kg, on a rail
Cons
- 15 mm and 16 mm are not listed
- No ratchet is included
- The UK reviews in the file are short and do not describe a split socket
- About £31.76 for seven pieces
Best for: Temperature sensors, thermo switches, or nuts on bent pipes, where the socket needs a slot.
Less suitable: A general 10–19 mm set, or a 1/2 inch ratchet.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 1105 7-piece slotted sockets
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£32
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(574)
- Set type
- Slotted rail
- Opening
- Slotted
- Drive
- 3/8 inch
- Size range
- 10–14, 17, 19 mm
- Pieces
- 7
- Ratchet
- No
- Storage
- Socket rail
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 0.51 kg
- Origin
- Taiwan
Common questions
What are these sockets for?
The bullets say temperature sensors, thermo switches and other components, and nuts on bent pipes. Slot widths are printed from 7.4 mm to 14.4 mm.
Is it a general 3/8 inch set?
No. It has seven sizes: 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17 and 19 mm. 15 mm and 16 mm are not listed.
Does it include a ratchet?
No. It is a rail of slotted sockets for a 10 mm (3/8 inch) drive.
Our view
BGS 9107 is an 11-piece 1/2 inch 12-point rail at about £20.73, with 4.6 from 158 reviews. It skips 20 mm. The printed sizes match the hexagon 9106, from 10 mm to 21 mm with 20 mm missing, at a higher price and with a 12-point opening. Reviewers mention suspension bolts, a solid rack and a thin wall. Eleven UK reviews in the file do not describe a split socket. The thin wall is a review comment, not a measured wall thickness. There is no ratchet. The country field says China and the listed weight is 0.67 kg.
Pros
- 11 twelve-point 1/2 inch sockets on a rail, 10–21 mm except 20 mm
- 4.6 from 158 reviews
- Reviewers mention suspension bolts and a solid rack
- Chrome vanadium, satin chrome, listed weight 0.67 kg
Cons
- 20 mm is not listed
- A thin wall is a review comment, not a measured specification
- About £20.73 against about £12.90 for the hexagon 9106 with the same size list
- No ratchet, and a smaller review sample than the other rails here
Best for: You already own a 1/2 inch ratchet and need a 12-point opening on that size list, including a thin wall where access is tight.
Less suitable: A 20 mm nut, a hexagon opening, or the cheaper 9106 list.
Specifications
- Model
- BGS 9107 11-piece 1/2 inch 12-point sockets
- Brand
- BGS
- Price
- ∼£21
- Customer rating
- 4.6/5(158)
- Set type
- Rail
- Opening
- 12-point
- Drive
- 1/2 inch
- Size range
- 10–21 mm, skips 20
- Pieces
- 11
- Ratchet
- No
- Storage
- Socket rail
- Material
- Chrome vanadium
- Weight
- 0.67 kg
- Origin
- China
Common questions
How is this different from the 9106?
Both are 11-piece 1/2 inch rails from 10 mm to 21 mm and both skip 20 mm. The 9106 is hexagon at about £12.90. The 9107 is 12-point at about £20.73.
Does it include a ratchet?
No. Reviewers store it beside a ratchet they already own.
What do the reviews mention?
A 10 mm socket on a 1/2 inch drive for suspension bolts, a thin wall, and a solid rack. No split socket is described in the 11 UK reviews read.
How we compared
We scored eleven amazon.co.uk socket-set listings in this comparison. Each score is out of 100: stars up to 35, the size of the review sample up to 25, how clearly the listing prints drives, sizes and storage up to 25, and value in this set up to 15, with a deduction up to 15 for defects named in the file. There is no lab test and no torque test. Where two scores tie, the larger review count is the top pick, once. The highest value part that is not the top pick is best value, once.
1
Stars
35%The amazon.co.uk star rating, scaled to 35. A 4.6 becomes 32, a 4.7 becomes 33, and a 4.8 becomes 34.
2
Review sample
25%How many ratings the listing has, and whether the file contains UK review text. A large star line with no UK text scores low on this part.
3
Listing clarity
25%Whether three ratchets are named, whether the size list is printed, whether storage is stated, and whether the model number matches the part.
4
Value in this set
15%Whether the shelf price buys the sizes you are likely to need, including 20 mm on a metric 1/2 inch rail, or a three-drive kit under a dearer case.
Independent review
Last updated: October 2026
8 sources checked
BGS socket set buying guide
A socket set on amazon.co.uk in this comparison is a chrome vanadium hand-tool set, not one model. Judge it by the drive, the printed sizes, the opening, and whether a ratchet is in the box. A 192-piece case is a workshop kit. A rail needs a ratchet you already own, in that drive. Piece count is a weak signal. None of these listings cites an impact standard.
What should you check on a socket set?
A socket set is a group of sockets that share one square drive so one ratchet can turn many nuts. In this comparison the listings are hand sets in chrome vanadium. Two are 192-piece cases with 1/4 inch, 3/8 inch and 1/2 inch drives and a 72-tooth ratchet on each drive. One is that kind of kit sold as a cabinet tray. The rest are rails or socket lists with no ratchet: metric 1/2 inch rails, one 3/8 inch rail, a slotted 3/8 inch set, and two inch-size 1/4 inch rails.
Best for
- A home mechanic who wants 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch drives in one case
- Someone who already owns a 1/2 inch ratchet and needs a printed metric list
Not ideal for
- Impact-wrench work, which these chrome vanadium listings do not claim
- A buyer who treats the piece count as a full size list
Mistakes to avoid
- 1
Buying the piece count
A 192-piece title is not every deep socket up to 32 mm. Two 11-piece rails print 10–21 mm and skip 20 mm. One inch title says 12 pieces while the bullet names 11.
- 2
Treating hand sockets as impact sockets
Every listing kept here says chrome vanadium. None says chrome molybdenum or cites an impact standard. Toolstation’s guide says not to use a standard socket on an impact wrench.
- 3
Assuming every listing is made in Germany
Two 192-piece cases say Germany. The rails and the tray say China. The slotted set says Taiwan. One country line does not cover the whole comparison.
What to weigh up
Opening and size list
HighThe opening and the printed size list decide whether the socket fits the nut. In this comparison one 192-piece case uses a wave profile, sold as Super Lock. The other 192-piece case, and the cabinet tray, use a hexagon Pro Torque opening. Several rails are plain hexagon or 12-point. One 3/8 inch set is slotted for temperature sensors, thermo switches and nuts on bent pipes, with slot widths printed from 7.4 mm to 14.4 mm. That set is not a general socket kit.
Case, rail and hand steel
HighStorage and steel decide whether the set is a kit or a handful of sockets. A case or a tray on these three-drive listings includes a 72-tooth ratchet on each drive. A rail does not. If you already own a sound 1/2 inch ratchet, paying again for three ratchets is optional. If you do not, a rail leaves the handle out. Chrome vanadium is the material line on every listing kept here. None says chrome molybdenum. Do not put these sockets on an impact wrench.
Which option suits you?
Three typical situations, each with a recommendation from this comparison.
You already own a 1/2 inch ratchet
You need metric sockets, including 20 mm, and the handle is already on the bench. The 16-piece 12-point rail covers 8–24 mm and leaves the ratchet out. That is the best value here.
You need inch fasteners
Imperial fasteners, including some motorcycle brake sizes named in UK reviews, are not a metric rail. The 1/4 inch 12-point inch rail is the row reviewers cite for that job. It has no ratchet.
Common questions about BGS socket sets
Which BGS socket set is the top pick in this comparison?
The top pick is the BGS 2292 Super Lock 192-piece case, at about £67.06 in the raw amazon.co.uk file. It scores 84, the same as the hexagon 2243, and it has the larger review count: 4.6 from 2,326 reviews. It includes 72-tooth ratchets on 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch drives. Some reviews report drive play and a weak case lock. A later page view showed a higher shelf price, so check the live listing. It is not an impact set.
Which BGS socket set is the best value?
The best value is the BGS 2226 at about £18.14, with 4.7 from 725 reviews. Sizes run 8–22 mm then 24 mm, so 20 mm is included and 23 mm is not. It has no ratchet. The value part is the highest that is not the top pick. The model field says 2229 while the part number says 2226. One review mentions 220 Nm on the reviewer’s wrench, not a rated torque for the sockets.
How much does a BGS socket set cost on amazon.co.uk?
In this snapshot the cheapest row is an inch hexagon rail at about £5.13. Other rails sit from about £12.70 to about £31.76. The two 192-piece cases are about £53.88 and about £67.06 in the saved listings, and a later view of the Super Lock case showed £104.81. The tool tray is about £188.51. Under about £15 you are buying a rail, not a three-drive case. Prices move, so use the live listing.
What should you check before you buy a socket set?
Check the drive against the ratchet you own, then the printed size list, then the opening. A piece count is a weak signal. Confirm whether a ratchet is in the box. Chrome vanadium here is for hand use, not an impact wrench. Origin is not the same on every listing: two cases say Germany, the rails and the tray say China, and the slotted set says Taiwan. These listings do not cite BS ISO 1711-1.
Can you use these chrome vanadium sockets on an impact wrench?
No. Every listing kept in this comparison says chrome vanadium, and none says chrome molybdenum or cites an impact standard. Toolstation’s socket-set guide puts chrome vanadium on hand ratchets and tells you not to use a standard socket on an impact wrench. An Amazon question about an impact driver is not a yes on the listing. Impact sockets are a different tool. These pages do not claim BS ISO 1711-2.
Which drive do you need for car nuts?
Most car nuts you reach by hand use a 1/2 inch square. A 3/8 inch rail will not go straight onto that ratchet, and a 1/4 inch rail is for smaller and inch fasteners. If you do not own a ratchet, a three-drive case includes 1/4, 3/8 and 1/2 inch. If you only need the large drive, compare rails in the 1/2 inch socket set comparison. Wheel-nut torque still comes from the vehicle handbook, not from a review.
Does a large piece count mean every size is included?
No. A 192-piece title is a workshop kit, not a promise of every deep socket up to 32 mm. Two 11-piece 1/2 inch rails print 10–21 mm and skip 20 mm. The inch rail whose title says 12 pieces names 11 sockets in the bullet, and 1/2 inch is not in that list. The slotted set has seven sizes and skips 15 mm and 16 mm. Read the printed list before you pay.
When should you call a professional?
Call a professional if a wheel or hub nut will not move and the car must be driven, if suspension needs a press or a lift, or if brake hydraulics are outside your competence. At work, stop if a socket is cracked or the ratchet no longer retains. HSE duties for work equipment apply to employers, not as a home inspection. A review that mentions 220 Nm is that reviewer’s wrench, not a torque for every UK car.
Our verdict
The top pick is the BGS 2292 Super Lock case. It ties the hexagon 2243 on 84, and it has the larger review count, 4.6 from 2,326 reviews, with three 72-tooth drives. UK comments mention coverage, play in the drive and the case lock. The saved listing shows about £67.06, and a later page view was higher, so check the live price. The best value is the BGS 2226 rail at about £18.14: 12-point sockets from 8 mm to 24 mm, including 20 mm, for a 1/2 inch ratchet you already own. It has no ratchet, and the model field says 2229 while the part number says 2226. A rail under about £15 is not the three-drive case. None of these listings is an impact set.
Best value
View offer
BGS 2226 16-piece 1/2 inch 12-point sockets
Highest value part that is not the top pick: about £18.14 for 8–24 mm, including 20 mm.
Editorial
DIY & tools editor
Hand toolsSocket setsWorkshop tools
Peter F. is the editor for DIY & tools at productscompared.co.uk. Comparisons in this category are checked against amazon.co.uk listings, review evidence and public UK sources.
Updated: October 2026
8 sources checked
Guides to BGS socket sets
Guides on what to look for, how to use a product, and common mistakes.
BGS socket set buying guideDrive, opening, size list and whether a ratchet is in the box, before the star line.Best BGS socket setWho the top pick and the best value are for, and who should skip each.How to use a BGS socket setDrive, ratchet, torque and the case, after the set is chosen.BGS Super Lock or hexagonWave profile against hexagon Pro Torque on the two 192-piece cases.BGS socket set for car repairsWhich set matches car jobs, including size gaps and when to stop.
Related comparisons
Sources
Sources for this comparison, last checked on 22 October 2026.
- BGS technic, Socket Set Super Lock 192 pcs (retrieved 22 October 2026)
- Toolstation socket set buying guide (retrieved 22 October 2026)
- Older BGS catalogue PDF (retrieved 22 October 2026)
- BSI BS ISO 1174-1:2011, driving squares (retrieved 22 October 2026)
- BSI BS ISO 1711-1:2019, hand-operated wrenches and sockets (retrieved 22 October 2026)
- HSE PUWER FAQ (retrieved 22 October 2026)
- GOV.UK, accepting returns and giving refunds (retrieved 22 October 2026)
- amazon.co.uk, BGS 2292 listing B001ILG27K (retrieved 20 October 2026)
This article contains affiliate links. If you buy through them, we may earn a commission at no extra cost to you. Listings, review counts and public sources still decide the comparison. We did not run a lab test.