Best One Way Drive Sockets of 2025

Jennifer Fraser Avatar
Jennifer Fraser
Last Updated: 1 Feb 2025

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One Way Drive Sockets are a useful tool for mechanics and DIY enthusiasts alike. These sockets are designed to grip onto nuts and bolts only in one direction, making them ideal for tightening or loosening fasteners that require a high level of torque. The unique design of these sockets prevents the socket from slipping off the fastener, which can save time and prevent frustration. One Way Drive Sockets come in a range of sizes to fit different nuts and bolts, and are made from durable materials to ensure long-lasting use.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Powerbuilt 36mm Extra Deep Axle Nut Socket Cover #TOP 1
Powerbuilt 36mm Extra Deep Axle Nut Socket
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Makita B-66868 3/8" Drive Impact Adapter Cover #TOP 2
Makita B-66868 3/8" Drive Impact Adapter
ftb score rating icon 9.8
TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive 25 mm Deep Impact Socket Cover #TOP 3
TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive 25 mm Deep Impact Socket
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 One Way Drive Sockets

#TOP 1

Powerbuilt 36mm Extra Deep Axle Nut Socket

648472
Black
36mm
Powerbuilt 36mm Extra Deep Axle Nut Socket Cover
Powerbuilt 1/2-inch Drive Axle Nut Socket, 36mm 6 Point Extra Deep, Remove Front Wheel Drive Axle Shaft Nuts, Pin Hole - 648472, Black

The Powerbuilt Axle Nut Socket is designed to be one of the most reliable tools on the market. It is perfect for easily removing front wheel drive axle shaft nuts, making your job simpler and more efficient. This impact grade 6-point socket ensures a secure fit, reducing the risk of slipping during use. Its extra deep design accommodates various axle lengths, providing versatility for different tasks. With such features, you can tackle axle nut removal with confidence and ease.

What We Like
Reliable tool performance
Easy axle nut removal
Secure 6-point socket fit
Versatile extra deep design
#TOP 2

Makita B-66868 3/8" Drive Impact Adapter

B-66868
Variety pack
Makita B-66868 3/8" Drive Impact Adapter Cover
Makita B-66868 Impact Black 3/8" Drive Adapter

The Makita B-66868 Adapter is a versatile tool designed to enhance your impact drive experience. Its magnetic feature ensures that your sockets stay securely attached, preventing frustrating drops during use. With a length of 50mm, it provides a compact solution for accessing tight spaces. The 1/4" hex shank allows for easy compatibility with various tools, making it a convenient addition to your toolkit. Whether you're a DIY enthusiast or a professional, this adapter offers reliability and ease of use.

What We Like
Magnetic for secure attachment
Compact 50mm length
1/4" hex shank compatibility
Easy to use
#TOP 3

TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive 25 mm Deep Impact Socket

SID23125
25 mm
TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive 25 mm Deep Impact Socket Cover
TEKTON 1/2 Inch Drive x 25 mm Deep 6-Point Impact Socket | SID23125

The TEKTON Deep Impact Socket offers several features that enhance its usability. The size is marked with both high-visibility laser and permanent stamped markings, ensuring you can quickly identify the socket you need. Its 6-point socket opening provides an exact fit for hex fasteners, reducing the risk of stripping or damaging them. Radiused corners apply force to the flat sides of the fasteners, preventing round-off and ensuring a secure grip. Additionally, this socket meets a minimum of 1.3 times the ANSI/ASME standard for proof torque, giving you confidence in its strength and reliability.

What We Like
High-visibility markings
Exact fit for hex fasteners
Prevents fastener round-off
High torque strength
#TOP 4

Wera 899/4/1 S 1/4" Bit Holder

05160979001
Colour
Wera 899/4/1 S 1/4" Bit Holder Cover
899/4/1 S 1/4" x 200 mm

The Wera Bit Holder is a versatile tool designed for ease of use. It features a universal holder that accommodates bits with a 1/4" hexagon head drive, making it compatible with a wide range of tools. The robust stainless sleeve and retaining ring ensure that your bits fit securely, providing confidence during use. Additionally, the strong permanent magnet holds the bits firmly in place, preventing any unwanted slips. This design allows you to work efficiently and safely, enhancing your overall experience with the tool.

What We Like
Universal holder for various bits
Strong permanent magnet for security
Robust stainless sleeve
Optimum fit with retaining ring
#TOP 5

Wera 899/4/1 S 1/4" Bit Holder

05160981001
Coloured
Wera 899/4/1 S 1/4" Bit Holder Cover
899/4/1 S 1/4" x 300 mm

The Wera Bit Holder is designed to accommodate bits with a 1/4" hexagon head drive, making it a versatile addition to your toolkit. Its stainless sleeve and strong retaining ring ensure that the tool fits securely, giving you confidence while working. The strong permanent magnet holds the bits firmly in place, preventing any accidental drops. This means you can work efficiently without the worry of losing your bits, allowing you to focus on your tasks.

What We Like
Universal bit compatibility
Strong permanent magnet
Secure tool fit
Durable stainless sleeve
#TOP 6

BGS 2020 Socket for BMW Cylinder Head

BGS
2020
Mehrfarbig
BGS 2020 Socket for BMW Cylinder Head Cover
BGS 2020 | Socket for BMW Cylinder Head E-Type, 150 mm | 12.5 mm (1/2") Drive | E12

The BGS BMW Cylinder Head Socket is specifically designed for BMW engines, making it a reliable choice for your car maintenance needs. With a length of 150 mm, this socket allows you to reach tight spaces easily, ensuring you can work efficiently. Its locking ball feature ensures that the socket stays securely attached, providing peace of mind during use. This tool is suitable for various BMW models, including the M42 and M50 engines, giving you versatility for different tasks.

What We Like
Suitable for specific BMW engines
150 mm length for easy access
Locking ball for secure fit
Versatile for multiple models
#TOP 7

Wera 967 PKL TORX® Ball-end L-key Set

05024242001
Black
Wera 967 PKL TORX® Ball-end L-key Set Cover
Wera 967 PKL TORX® Ball-end BlackLaser L-key set in a two-component clip, 9pc, 05024242001

The Wera TORX® L-key Set is designed for recessing TORX screws, ensuring you have the right tool at hand whenever you need it. The BlackLaser finish provides excellent corrosion protection, extending the lifespan of the keys. Size markings make it easy for you to find the right key quickly. Additionally, the wear-resistant clip keeps the L-keys secure and allows for simple removal, making your maintenance tasks more efficient and hassle-free.

What We Like
High corrosion protection
Quick size identification
Secure storage solution
Simple key removal
#TOP 8

Wera 840/4 Z Hex-Plus 3 x 152 mm Socket

05136301001
Multicolor
Wera 840/4 Z Hex-Plus 3 x 152 mm Socket Cover
840/4 Z Hex-Plus 3 x 152 mm SB

The Wera Hex-Plus Socket is designed for socket head screws, providing a robust solution for your fastening needs. Its Hex-Plus feature helps to prolong the life of socket head screws, reducing the frequency of replacements. Constructed from ductile and tough materials, this socket is ideal for handling harder materials without wear and tear. The 1/4" hexagon drive makes it compatible with the Wera connecting series 4, ensuring that you have the right tool for the job at hand.

What We Like
Durable for hard materials
Extends screw lifespan
Compatible with Wera series
Ideal for socket head screws
#TOP 9

Faithfull 25mm Hexagon Socket, Chrome Vanadium Steel

FAISOC1225
Silver
Faithfull 25mm Hexagon Socket, Chrome Vanadium Steel Cover
Faithfull SOC1225 25mm Hexagon Socket Chrome Vanadium Steel 1/2-inch Drive , Silver , Pack of 1

The Faithfull Hexagon Socket is designed for easy use, making it an ideal choice for both professionals and DIY enthusiasts. Its robust construction from chrome vanadium steel ensures durability, providing you with reliable performance over time. This socket is also a great value for money, allowing you to complete your tasks without breaking the bank. With its 1/2-inch drive, it is versatile enough to tackle various fastening applications, making your projects smoother and more efficient.

What We Like
Easy to use
Durable chrome vanadium steel
Great value for money
Versatile 1/2-inch drive
#TOP 10

Wera 8790 FA Zyklop Shallow Socket 5.5mm

05003668001
Multi-colour
5.5 mm
Wera 8790 FA Zyklop Shallow Socket 5.5mm Cover
Wera 8790 FA Zyklop Shallow Socket (for Zyklop Mini 2 Ratchet) 1/4"drive x 5.5mm, 05003668001

The Wera Zyklop Shallow Socket is designed with a very low height, making it ideal for use in confined working areas. This feature allows you to access tight spaces where traditional sockets may not fit. It is intended for manual operations, giving you full control during use. Additionally, the socket is equipped with a ball stop groove, which ensures a secure fit on your ratchet, preventing slippage and enhancing safety while you work. This combination of features provides convenience and efficiency for various tasks.

What We Like
Ideal for tight spaces
Designed for manual use
Secure ball stop groove
Buying Guide Image

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What does drive mean for sockets?

The drive socket size is a measurement of the distance between the flat sides of the square recess. The drive socket size must match the drive square size of your turning tool for the socket to fit correctly. For example, a 1/4″ drive or 1/4″ square drive will attach to a turning tool that has a 1/4″ drive square.

2. What is a ¼ inch drive socket usually used for?

Uses for 1/4″ Drive Sockets Given their small size, 1/4″ drive sockets are ideal for tight spaces & precision applications. Some examples include skateboards, gardening equipment, small motors, & electronic devices. Also, mechanics & plumbers will need a set of 1/4″ drive sockets when reaching into close quarters.

3. What are flat drive sockets?

The Flat Drive profile is designed to guarantee optimum surface contact between the socket and the nut. This “flat” contact reduces wear and allows transmission of higher torque. ... Twin balls in the 6 faces of the socket hold the nut firmly for safe, efficient work.

4. What is a 1/2 inch drive socket used for?

Product Description. Built for use with impact tools, these TEKTON 1/2 in. drive deep impact sockets effortlessly break free rusty suspension and exhaust bolts, quickly remove stuck lug nuts, and loosen crank bolts with ease.

Editor's Notes

During our one way drive socket research, we found 306 one way drive socket products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 35,327 customer reviews through our big data system to write the one way drive sockets list. We found that most customers choose one way drive sockets with an average price of £10.82.

The one way drive sockets are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of one way drive sockets, including Powerbuilt, Makita, TEKTON, Wera, BGS.

Written by
Jennifer Fraser Avatar

Jennifer Fraser is a licensed contractor specializing in sales, maintenance, and kitchen, bathroom, and home appliances, tools, and utilities. She owns a store in Leeds where you can get any home and tool appliance. Jenny has a degree in literature, but she combines her knowledge and experience with her degree to publish DIY articles on solving home appliances issues to keep up the family enterprise.