A new year is upon us, and we’re ringing in the first quarter of 2023 with a selection of the best tools to get you through the year.
Our Tool Digest team has gathered our top picks in every category to help ensure you’re ready for any projects you have planned in the coming months - whether you’re a hobbyist DIYer or a professional tradesperson. We’ve covered everything from classic tools to the latest and great equipment so that you’re ready for any project that comes your way.
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Essential Power Tools
Best Welding Tool:Weldpro MIG 155GSV
Why we like it: While this may not be the best option for heavy-duty industrial welding, the Weldpro MIG 155GSV ticks all the boxes for general use. It’s versatile, powerful, light, and affordable - a winning combo for a wide range of workers.
Best Floor Sander:Clarke Floor Sander Orbital Dust Control
Why we like it: Clarke floor sander is a prime example of everything a professional-level machine should offer. It’s high-powered, multi-functional, and comes with its own built-in vacuum system and dust trap.
Essential Hand Tools
Best for Soldering:Weller SP40NKUS Soldering Iron
Why we like it: For those just getting started in soldering, the Weller SP40NKUS offers a perfect introduction. It’s a trustworthy solution that steers clear of professional features but doesn’t skip any needed basics - and it comes in at a highly affordable price.
Best Overall Sharpening Tool:Drill Doctor X2 Drill Bit, Knife, and Tool Sharpener
Why we like it: Drill Doctor is a 4th-generation family-owned business, and their experience comes through in the quality of this sharpener. It features a revolutionary interchangeable guide system that makes it easy to sharpen a wide range of tools, and its side-by-side sharpening stations makes it easy to work on multiple projects at once.
Best Screwdriver Multi-Tool:LENOX 9-in-1 Screwdriver
Why we like it: We love that this screwdriver from LENOX is comfortable, thanks to its ergonomic grip, which means you can use it all-day if needed - and the screwdriver itself is solid enough for heavy daily use. But the grip isn’t only about comfort - it’s slip-resistant and designed for maximum torque, so committed DIYers and serious pros can get the most out of it every day.
Essential Air Tools
Best Paint Sprayer:Wagner 0529021 Flexio 890 HVLP
Why we like it: The Wagner paint sprayer is one of the best handheld sprayers on the market that is also incredibly simple to use. It works well both indoors and outdoors, and is extremely useful for applying a superior finish to furniture, walls, ceilings, cabinets, trims, and much more.
Best Air Compressor:California Air Tools Light & Quiet Air Compressor
Why we like it: You won’t find a quieter air compressor than this offering from California Air Tools, making it a great option for use indoors. While it’s not the most powerful option, it’s great for small tasks - it works wonders for basic jobs around the house, like tire inflation or blowing out dust.
Essential Cleaning Tools
Best Shop Vac:Armor All Wet/Dry Utility
Why we like it: We love the Armor All Wet/Dry Utility Shop Vac because it's a great shop vac for any homeowner; it’s lightweight and portable, converts to a blower, and is great for small jobs like detailing your car. It’s not great at handling larger debris, like leaves, but for non-professionals or those who are new to using shop vacs, this product is a fantastic choice.
Best for Glass Cleaning:Hope’s Perfect Glass Cleaner
Why we like it: Hope's Perfect Glass Cleaner is a powerful cleaner that can work on nearly any surface, including cooktops and electronic device screens. While high-priced, its excellent performance and multi-use formula makes it a practical luxury - and great for professional cleaners.
Essential Lawn & Garden Tools
Best for Snow Clearing:WEN Blaster Snow Blower
Why we like it: This blower is cheap enough that you don’t have to worry about breaking the bank, but it delivers value for every dollar of its price and works wonders on patios, decks, and small driveways. It’s a great option for homeowners who want to avoid shoveling themselves out!
Best for Lawn Care:Gardena Pulse Circular Sprinkler
Why we like it: If you’re looking for a lawn sprinkler that can withstand the elements and function for years to come, look no further than the Gardena Pulse Circular Sprinkler. Plus, since it’s compatible with in-series plumbing and covers an area of approximately 5,274-square feet, no garden is too large for this sprinkler.
Essential Safety Equipment
Best Clothing:Venture Heat Heated Hoodie
Why we like it: Industry veteran Venture Heat has produced a long-lasting jacket with cool features like a flashlight, USB charging, a long battery life, and a soft fleece interior. The highest setting will keep the interior temperature at around 100 degrees, plenty warm for even frigid days!
Best Welding Helmet:Lincoln Electric Viking 3350
Why we like it: With fantastic optical clarity and a huge list of features - all paired with a great safety rating - the Lincoln Electric Viking 3350 is a superb welding helmet. Reliable and effective, there's nothing we can complain about - minus it being a bit pricey (but your safety is absolutely worth it).
More Essential Accessories
Best for On-The-Go Power:Hiluckey Outdoor Portable PowerBank
Why we like it: The Hiluckey Outdoor Portable Power Bank is a well-rounded option for hiking, camping, or just providing your phone with a sustainable source of portable power. It comes with a built-in battery bank and flashlight, and it does a great job at charging or running small USB-powered devices.
Best Ladder:Little Giant 22-Foot Velocity Multi-Use
Why we like it: This product is one of the best ladders available because it provides stability and is of high-quality construction. The two-person ladder works as a scaffold system, extension, A-frame, and a 90-degree ladder. This means that you can use it for various purposes, even for the areas in your space which are hard to reach, which makes it great both for homeowners and pros.