Best Portable Tool Boxes: Store, Organize, and Protect Your Tools

There are dozens of different types of portable tool boxes for consumers to choose from. Each one of those types has sub-categories and then inside those are dozens of brands who all make slight variations. I used years of experience in working with tools and tool boxes to narrow down the field for this buying guide. Then through personal experience owning them or doing hands-on testing, the finalists you see here were selected. As usual, online reviews were also read to see if actual customers had encountered pros and cons I had not. My ranking factors included durability, value, usability and in some cases, expandability. All the portable tool boxes you see here are top choices and hopefully one of them meets your specific needs.

With its compact design coupled with heavy-duty construction, the Dewalt Tough System Tool Box takes the top spot on our review. It also has multiple storage containers that help to keep your smaller tools well organized. If you are looking for a more affordable tool carrier with a basic but functional design, consider the TICONN Tool Bag.

The main advantage of metal tool boxes is that they are durable, good looking, and evoke great memories. They work great, if you aren't having to constantly carry them around. If you get one made of rust and corrosion-resistant metal such as stainless steel, then you’re guaranteed that it will stay in good condition no matter the season. Realistically, plastic is a far better choice and gives you more options including modular snap together systems and molded plastic drawers provide a better means of organization. 

In terms of a mobile tool box, we are thinking of a compact option with wheels and a telescopic or a basic pull-out handle so you can move it around easily. If you walk around with large, heavy tools, then this may be the best option for you since you won’t have any difficulty bringing your tools to any workstation. You also won’t have to limit the number of tools you can carry so long as there’s enough space for them. 

Any tool box needs to be rigid. Metal models are the sturdiest, but many composites are sure to stand up to abuse as well or better. The material you select should be balanced with the intended use of the box. The work you do and the tools kept within should be taken into consideration as well.

Robust latching mechanisms are just as crucial to reliability as the body of the box. Flimsy latches often fail and can lead to the box spilling open during transportation. Latch location is also vital, as it can determine whether the model is stackable and can save space in storage. Robust, side-mounted latches are highly desirable.

How large the box needs to be is something you must decide for yourself. Tool size and tool count are determining factors in how large the tool box must be. Space isn’t everything. How you can organize your tools is important, too. Removable trays, storage compartments, and drawers are key factors to consider when selecting a tool box. Remember to account for future tools which always follow the n+1 rule.

If your box is loaded up with equipment, you need to make sure you’ve got a good handle on it. Most portable tool boxes have a small plastic handle that works fine. However, if you know you’ll be pushing its capacity, you should look for a model that features a wide and sturdy handle. Also, be considerate of whether your hand will fit while wearing a glove.

Many models are part of a line of compatible boxes. Most of the time, they are designed to stack on top of one another to save space in storage. Others can be fitted to select carriers and even larger chests. Even if you are only purchasing a single box at a time, this is something you should keep in mind.

Most tool boxes are lockable in one way or another. Lower priced models feature openings on the lip. This is acceptable for many users, as they will hardly ever rely on it. However, if security is of utmost concern, the only option is a model with a locking mechanism built into the lid. Tool boxes with this feature are often of metal construction as well, so that they are tough to break into. Ultimately, if you have a portable tool box, the thief will likely take the whole thing.