When you bring up the idea of a tool box, many people think back to the old metal Craftsman ones our Dads had in the garage. Today, the best tool box has a much different look and feel as the entire category has evolved to meet the demands of professional jobsites.
In this article, I’m going to break things down into two sections (you can click each link and jump to the section you’re interested in). First, we’ll look at the state of the best rugged modular tool box systems. From there, we’ll dive into some of the more traditional tool box and bag designs our crew recommends.
Best Tool Box – Our Top Picks
- Best Modular System Depth: Milwaukee Packout
↓ Jump to this Tool Box - Best Modular System Durability: Flex Stack Pack
↓ Jump to this Tool Box - Best Modular System for Pickup Trucks: Makita MAKTRAK
↓ Jump to this Tool Box - Best for Home Garage Organization: Ryobi Link
↓ Jump to this Tool Box - Best Basic Tool Box: Gearwrench 20-inch Steel Tool Box
↓ Jump to this Tool Box - Best Tool Bag: Veto Pro Pac Tech MTC Blackout
↓ Jump to this Tool Box - Best Tool Backpack: Veto Pro Pac Tech Pac Blackout
↓ Jump to this Tool Box - Best Tool Chest and Cabinet Combo: Husky 52-inch Tool Storage Combo
↓ Jump to this Tool Box
Click These Links and Jump to the Section You Want
- Best Rugged Modular Tool Box Systems
- Best Traditional Tool Boxes and Bags
- What to Look For When You’re Shopping
- Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
Best Rugged Modular Tool Box Systems
There are a lot of choices when it comes to rugged modular tool storage. What started off as a basic set of interlocking tool boxes has taken off into purpose-built storage with the features and durability Pros need on the toughest jobsites. While any of the systems I listed below have the potential to suit your needs, I’ve picked five that stand out from the crowd and deserve your consideration.
To help you decide, we’ve rated each system in several categories and included the price of a starter stack. The scores are out of 10 possible points and are determined as a comparison to what is currently available.
- System Depth: How many products are available and how wide-ranging the system is.
- Durability: How tough the products in the system are in general.
- Design: Connection interface, access, transport, use of space, and unique features.
- 3-Piece Rolling Combo Price: Typically includes a rolling base, medium, and small tool boxes.
Best Modular Tool Box System Depth
MIlwaukee Packout
- System Depth: 10/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Design: 8/10
- 3-Piece Rolling Combo Price: $319
Pros
- Widest range of available products
- Available wall mounts
- Durable, josbiste-tough build
- Rolling box transports easily across bare ground
- Updated low-profile rolling box handle fits under tonneau covers
Cons
- Fully loaded stack is challenging to load and unload from a pickup
- Rolling box handle can get in the way of opening boxes without removing them from the stack or taking the handle off (especially on the original rolling box)
Why it Stands Out
Milwaukee Packout wasn’t the first modular storage system available, but its launch completely disrupted the tool box space. It stepped up the expectations for how durable a modular system should be and expanded the types of storage options way beyond anything else available.
Today, the system continues to expand and is the most comprehensive, making it the most versatile system to customize around your specific needs.
Best Modular Tool Box System Durability
Flex Stack Pack
- System Depth: 7/10
- Durability: 10/10
- Design: 9/10
- 3-Piece Rolling Combo Price: $249
Pros
- Durable, josbiste-tough build
- Available wall mounts
- Rolling box transports easily across bare ground
- External accessories expand possibilies
- Internal side and lid storage
Cons
- Fully loaded stack is challenging to load and unload from a pickup
- Rolling box handle can get in the way of opening boxes without removing them from the stack or taking the handle off
Why it Stands Out
On the surface, Flex Stack Pack may look like other modular systems, but its reality is much different. In addition to improving on the durability we expect from Pro-grade builds, the product team reimagined what you can do with the space you have available.
On the inside of select Stack Pack tool boxes, you’re able to clip smaller accessory organizers into the lid or around the sides, making use of what it often dead space. On the outside, there are a variety of accessoies you can add to store tools, levels, extension cords, and more where they’re easily accessible.
Best Modular Tool Box System for Pickup Trucks
Makita MAKTRAK
- Breadth of Line: 5/10
- Durability: 9/10
- Design: 10/10
- 3-Piece Rolling Combo Price: $410
Pros
- Durable, josbiste-tough build
- Horizontal stack orientation is purpose-built to work with pickup trucks
- Rolling box premium telescoping handle assists with loading and unloading
- Rolling box handle doens’t get in the way of side-oriented lid opening
- Large box lids open from either side
- Boxes can connect from either direction
- Rolling box transports easily across bare ground
- Internal divider and lid MOLLE storage
- Supports longer tools than can fit in other systems
Cons
- Stack has a larger floor footprint than vertically-oriented systems
- Limited range of products currently
- More expensive than most systems
Why it Stands Out
Makita is relatively new to the modular storage system race, but their product team learned from the pain points of contractors and designed the MAKTRAK system to thrive in a construction environment dominated by pickup trucks.
It uses a horizontal approach that spreads out instead of up, making it easier to fit under a tonneau cover without disassembling the stack. Its larger base footprint also has room to store larger tools and opens up the possibility of a wider variety of box sizes and styles. Combined with thoughtful features like double-sided entry lids, oversize latches, and a handle design that lets you use your tailgate for loading and unloading assistance, MAKTRAK is redefining modular tool box expectations.
Best Modular Tool Box System for Home Garage Organization
Ryobi Link
- System Depth: 10/10
- Durability: 7/10
- Design: 7/10
- 3-Piece Rolling Combo Price: $140
Pros
- Wide range of available products, including garage organization
- Rolling box transports easily across bare ground
- More affordable than other systems
Cons
- Fully loaded stack is challenging to load and unload from a pickup
- Rolling box handle can get in the way of opening boxes without removing them from the stack or taking the handle off
- Not as robust of a build as premium systems
Why it Stands Out
Ryobi’s Link modular system is an intriguing blend of tools boxes Pros can use in lighter-duty environments with a rail system that can make any DIYer’s garage more organized and functional.
The tool boxes share many of the same features we find on Pro-grade models, though the construction isn’t as heavy-duty as something like Milwaukee’s Packout. Back in the shop or your garage, rails allow for a wide range of hooks, hangers, boxes, and more to store on the wall, opening up floor space for other items.
Other Modular Tool Box Systems That Stand Out
DeWalt ToughSystem 2.0
DeWalt’s ToughSystem 2.0 is in a similar vein as Milwaukee’s Packout, but its evolutionary track has started to move into new areas. One that caught my attention recently is the Modular Work Station. With a wheeled dolly as the base, drawer units in the middle, and a workspace at the top, it bridges the gap between modular storage and tool chests. Effectively, it’s a 30-inch rolling tool chest, yet it’s compatible with other ToughSystem 2.0 boxes and exterior accessories that make it more customizable.
Klein MODBox
Klein is tossing its hat in the ring with the MODBox system. The basic design doesn’t stray too far from the norm, sticking with a durable build and similar footprint to others. What’s different is that these tool boxes focus on the needs of the electrical trade, taking into consideration linemen, electricians, and everyone in between. Using a combination of internal design and external accessories, you can modify the stack to match the jobs you’re tackling.
Systainers
Systainers stack and lock neatly, making them handy for storing at the shop and taking on the road. They’re not quite as tough as most of the rugged boxes on our list, but they’re well-suited for work vans that are more popular in Europe than pickup trucks. Most Festool tools are solid with a Systainer custom-designed to fit the tool and its accessories perfectly, making this tool box a favorite among woodworkers.
ToughBuilt StackTech
ToughBuilt’s StackTech modular system is another that improves its versatility with external accessories. This highly durable system sets itself apart with a self-aligning interface that includes automatic locking as you build your stack.
Best Traditional Tool Boxes and Bags
Best Basic Tool Box
Gearwrench 20-inch Steel Tool Box
- 3 drawers + top section
- 2040 cu in of storage space
- Integrated lock
- Ball bearing drawer slides
- Price: $62.99
Pros
- More durable than plastic
- Better organization than basic bulk boxes
- Lockable
- Tough powder-coated finish
Cons
- Heavier than plastic or smaller boxes
- Susceptible to scratches and dents
- No drawer liners
Why it Stands Out
Best Tool Bag
Veto Pro Pac Tech MTC Blackout
- Part of the V-Swap system
- 44 pockets, D-rings, tape clip, and more
- 800 cu in of storage space
- Holds up to 35 lbs of gear
- Price: $175 – $225
Pros
- Super-tough build
- Trade-focused design
- Customizable with V-Swap panels
- Higher capacity than most bags
- Weatherproof base
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavier than many tool bags
Why it Stands Out
Veto Pro Pac built its reputation by making tough, trade-focused tool bags, and they’re the best you can buy in my book. There are a wide variety of options to meet the needs of nearly any trade, and the Tech MCT Blackout is my favorite.
It’s the tall version of the Tech MC bag with a higher capacity. What makes it an easy recommendation for nearly anyone is the V-Swap system. In addition to the integrated pockets in and around the bag, you can swap out different panels to customize it based on the types of tools you carry. You can also pre-load multiple V-Swap panels to quickly adjust for the job at hand when you’re tackling multiple scenarious throughout the day.
Best Tool Backpack
Veto Pro Pac Tech Pac Blackout
- Part of the V-Swap system
- 46 pockets, D-rings, tape clip, and more
- 1550 cu in of internal storage space
- Holds up to 50 lbs of gear
- Price: $270 – $400
Pros
- Super-tough build
- Trade-focused design
- Customizable with V-Swap panels
- Higher capacity than most bags
- Weatherproof base
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavier than many tool backpacks
Why it Stands Out
At the risk of sounding like a broken record, my recommendation for tool backpacks also comes from Veto Pro Pac for the same reasons I recommend their tool bags. In addition to the tough, trade-focused build, the Tech Pac Blackout is also part of the V-Swap system. With a different range of panels designed to fit the backpack, you can customize it differently than you would the smaller bags.
Of the V-Swap-compatible backpacks, this model has a higher capacity in both storage space and weight, making it a great option for those who want to have everything close by at all times.
Best Tool Chest and Cabinet Combo
Husky 52-inch Tool Storage Combo
- 15 drawers
- 120-lb soft close drawer slides
- 35,020 cu in of storage space
- 444 lbs total weight
- Price: $798
Pros
- Durable powder-coated finish
- Magnetic back panel
- Integrated 120V AC and USB power strip
- Lockable
- Outstanding value
Cons
- Lower steel gauge than some systems
- Lower weight capacity than some systems
Why it Stands Out
Metal rolling storage is one category where you can find the quality you need as a Pro without buying a top-of-the-line brand. We’ve been using Husky tool chests and work stations for years and have zero complaints. For my money, Husky’s 52-inch tool chest and cabinet combo is the best value out there. It has a durable build and a thoughtful feature set while coming in literally more than $10,000 less than a Snap-On combo in the same size range.
There are absolutely jobs where you need the strongest build with the highest weight capacity or buying a high-end system makes sense. For the other 99% of us, why strap yourself down without thousands of dollars of debt if you don’t have to?
What to Look for When Buying a Tool Box
There’s no easy one-size-fits-all answer for finding the best tool box for your needs. There are some general keys to keep your eyes open for, though. In addition to my own experience, I also checked in with the rest of our team and other local Pros to build a picture of the most important things to look for when you’re shopping for a tool box.
Durability
No one likes cheap boxes that break easily. For that reason, I haven’t recommended any “Amazon-special” boxes, no matter how many people give them top user ratings. If it can’t survive the environment and the way you use (or abuse) it, you’re not doing yourself any favors.
Check the materials, construction, and weight capacities to ensure you get a product that meets your needs.
Capacity
It may seem obvious, but you need to make sure the tool box or bag you’re buying has enough capacity for the tools you need to store. Capacity isn’t just space, though. It’s also weight. Even if you avoid overpacking from a volume perspective, too much weight can result in bags that rip, drawer slides that bend, handles that break, and more.
If you’re just getting started, keep the future in mind as well. As an entry-level mechanic, you might only need a 30-inch tool cabinet right now. As your skills and responsibilities grow, you might outgrow it and need something in the 40 or even 50-inch range, so plan accordingly.
Finally, keep in mind the space you have for storing your tool boxes. That 72-inch rolling combo might have all the capacity you need, but if you only have space for a 52-inch cabinet, having the extra capacity won’t do much good.
Organization
I find it difficult to declare a best tool box on something that can’t organize tools well. Large boxes with one big compartment might work great for your Dad, but not me. I prefer something that stays more organized over time so I don’t have to hunt around for my tools.
With options like the organizers in modular systems, organization is built in (it’s kinda right there in the name). There are ways to make better use of bulk storage boxes and drawers as well. Options for dividers are a big help and you can look into foam inserts that can customize your organization efforts. You can even find sets of mechanics tools that come in an organization tray that fits right into a drawer.
Flexibility and Features
If you need something to flex with the job, then I tend to value tool box modular systems over one-off designs. That’s why systems like Milwaukee Packout, Makita MAKTRAK, and Flex Stack Pack are so popular. From stackability on carts and each other to wall-mounting, the flexibility these systems deliver blows away most of the competition.
Of course, a modular system might not be what you’re after. The number and size of drawers, pockets, or bins can tell you a lot about what to expect, but look for additional features that stand out. Bonuses like power supplies on rolling boxes, swappable inserts, exterior storage, and others can multiply the effectiveness of your tool boxes and bags.
Value
Value matters. With so many great options on the market, you can afford to shop around and see which models offer the best combination of durability, capacity, organization, and features. Don’t be afraid to consider house brands, especially when it comes to metal storage. Some of those boxes match the quality of name-brand models for hundreds of dollars less.
Why You Can Trust Pro Tool Reviews
Ever check out a “review” site and you can’t tell if they actually tested the product or if they’re just “recommending” the Amazon top sellers? That’s not us. We won’t recommend anything unless we’d use it ourselves, and we don’t care who the primary retailer is. It’s all about giving you a legitimate recommendation and our honest opinion of each product.
Since 2008, Pro Tool Reviews has provided in-depth tool reviews, buying guides, how-to articles, and industry news in the construction and lawn care industries. We focus on professionals in the trades and our writers have the skills and experience to know whether a tool or accessory will hold up on the jobsite.
Each year, we bring in and review more than 250 individual products. Additionally, our team will put their hands on hundreds more tools at media events and trade shows throughout the year. If I recommend a work boot, that means I’d wear it myself (and perhaps I or one of our staff already does!)
