If you are in the market for new toolboxes, you have a lot of options. You can choose the cheaper route and purchase something at your local warehouse store, or you can go all-in for a new Snap-on box. Are Snap-on toolboxes worth it, and should you invest in one?
In this guide, I take a closer look at the Snap-on brand, as well as the advantages and disadvantages of the toolbox lineup. I evaluate the cost and show you whether the toolboxes from Snap-on are worth the expense.
Are Snap-on Toolboxes Worth It?
If you aren’t using your tools daily and in extreme environments, you might prefer saving the money and purchasing a generic brand instead of a snap-on toolbox. It comes down to determining how often you want to buy toolboxes and what you hope to get from them.
Snap-on toolboxes are much more expensive than the common everyday brands. These boxes are more expensive because of their high-quality construction and reliability. If you need to invest in something top-notch, the Snap-on lineup will protect your tools very well. However, not everyone needs this level of protection.
What is the Snap-on Brand?
Snap-on was initially created in 1920. At the time, it was known as the Snap-on Wrench Company. The company’s initial invention was a wrench with ten sockets, along with five interchangeable handles. This tool’s slogan was “Five does the work of Fifty.”
After the wrench invention, the Snap-on brand expanded to appeal directly to mechanics at dealerships and shops. Today, the company is one of the most popular brands on the market among professionals.
What Brands Does Snap-on Own?
Snap-on is the parent company of many brands you might know. These include, but aren’t limited to:
- ATL Tools
- autoVHC
- Blackhawk
- Blue-Point
- Car-O-Liner
- CDI Torque Products
- Challenger Lifts
- JohnBean
- Mitchell1
- Norbar Torque Tools
- Pro-Cut Brake Solutions
- Truck Cam
- Williams
You can learn more about the brands under the Snap-on umbrella by visiting the company’s website.
RELATED: Snap-On vs. Blue Point Tools – Differences (& Which is Better?)
Benefits of Snap-on Toolboxes
1. Flexible Storage Solutions
The Snap-on brand might have started by offering just one wrench, but the lineup quickly grew to include a wide range of tools and boxes. It doesn’t matter what kind of storage you are looking for, you’ll be able to find it with Snap-on.
You can start small and add on as you go. Or, you might also choose to go all-out and purchase a complete set right out of the gate.
2. Durable
One of the top benefits of Snap-on toolboxes is the durability. All of the boxes are constructed from the highest-quality materials for a long life.
These tool chests are born to last. Even the smallest features, such as the locking systems and rollers on drawers, are designed to never wear out.
3. Portable
The Snap-on brand has an entire lineup designed for mobility. It’s known as Mobile Solutions Tool Storage.
In this lineup, you can find metal boxes and micro boxes. It also includes tote bags and road chests, so your tools go wherever you need to work.
4. Easy to Roll
If you choose the largest tool chests made by Snap-on, you can count on rollers to help you move around the shop. The roll carts are a top choice in shops today.
Not only will you be able to bring your tools to wherever you are working in the garage, but you won’t have to worry about the wheels snagging. Snap-on uses an innovative design that keeps everything flowing smoothly.
5. Interchangeable Drawers
Snap-on knew from the very beginning that people would want customization. That’s why the company provided interchangeable drawers to clients.
You can customize the tool chest to fit your needs. Don’t forget those foam insets that make organization easier than ever.
6. Advanced Features
What started as a simple toolbox has easily turned into an innovative genius. Today’s Snap-on boxes are more advanced than ever before, giving you features you didn’t know you needed.
While the added features do add more to the price, there’s something to be said for the usability of LED lights. You can also get a box with an integrated power source, so your tools are always kept at full charge.
7. Lifetime Warranty
Few things in life are guaranteed, but Snap-on makes sure its boxes are. While you are going to spend a good chunk of change to get a storage solution that fits your needs, you’ll never have to purchase another one again.
Your purchase is for life. Should something happen to the toolbox, Snap-on is going to replace it. The same is true with the lineup of professional tools, giving you peace of mind while you work.
RELATED: 10 Best Car Ramps – Review & Buyer’s Guide
Disadvantages of Snap-On Toolboxes
1. Space/Weight
Snap-on does offer a few mobile solutions, but it’s not what the company is known for. Instead, most of the toolboxes are large and heavy.
You need to make sure you have the space to fit your toolbox before you invest in one. Additionally, you are going to need some help loading and unloading it, especially if you choose one of the models that weigh 500 pounds or more.
2. Price
If the toolbox cost is a primary concern to you, then you won’t want a Snap-On. This brand offers some of the most expensive products on the market because of the durable design and lifetime warranty.
The prices are enough to make you perform a double-take. Few people have ever looked at the Snap-on brand and thought the boxes were a bargain.
3. High Finance Rates
If you don’t purchase your toolbox outright, you are going to finance it. Snap-on does offer some financing plans, but not everyone is happy with them.
It seems that the finance rates are extremely high, adding even more to the cost of your box. If you can, you might be better saving up to get what you want instead of going into debt for it.
4. Depreciation
With most tool and toolbox brands, you can purchase what you want and turn around to sell it at a small loss. People are willing to pay good money for used tools and boxes.
This isn’t the case with Snap-on toolboxes. Unless you find the right buyer, you might take a big hit when you try to sell it again. That’s why it’s best not to invest in the storage solution unless you are sure you plan to keep it for a long time.
Cost of Snap-on Toolboxes
Snap-On toolboxes have a range of prices, starting at just a few hundred dollars, and going all the way up to five figures. There’s even a model that costs more than $60,000. That’s got to be one impressive toolbox. For this reason, it’s difficult to estimate what you might pay for your Snap-on tool storage solutions.
The company offers an extensive array of storage options, from smaller portable boxes to full-size chests and workstations. You can purchase one at a time or create an entire configuration for your garage to ensure you have everything you need. Ideally, you want to budget ahead of time to ensure you can cover the costs. Otherwise, you will have to finance through the company, which only adds more to the bill.
Categories: Reviews
