A tool chest is an essential piece of any workshop or garage as it will keep your tools safe and organized, which can save you a lot of time when looking for the right tool to complete a task.
The average person spends about $800 on tools and equipment in their lifetime. These tools include drills, saws, hammers, screwdrivers, wrenches, etc. So, the need for a tool chest can not be overemphasized. With so many options available with prices ranging from $200 – $1000+, it can be daunting to find the perfect set that fits within your budget but also meets all your needs.
That is why we have taken the time to carefully select and review in detail 10 of the best tool chests under 500 dollars, which are worth checking out if you have limited funds but need something of high-quality and good organization.
Our 10 Best Tool Chest Under 500 Picks:
Here are the top 10 tool chests that come at a budget price-
1. Seville Classics UltraHD Rolling Cabinet
While many of us have the tools we need to get the job done, sometimes it can be hard to find them when you need them. This is where Seville Classics UltraHD rolling cabinet comes in handy. It’s versatile enough that anyone from a mechanic to a carpenter or woodworker will find a use for it! Thanks to its compact size that measures 28″ W x 18″ D x 34.5″ H, it takes up little storage space.
This cabinet includes six drawers (five small and one large) with metal slides. They are made of high-grade wood with dovetail joints to ensure durability. These drawers have cushioned liners to ensure your tools don’t get damaged when stored. The small drawers measure 23.25″ W x 15.5″ D x 2″ H, while the large one measures 23.25″ W x 15.5″ D x 9.25″ H. All the drawers together can house tools with an overall weight of 300lbs.
Furthermore, this tool chest has two black plastic bumpers that offer protection from impact. Thanks to the integrated locking system with a concealed key lock on the top of the unit and two sliding locks in front, your tools will be kept safe from prying hands. Also, the ¾” solid hardwood at the top of the cabinet serves as a work desk.
The Seville Classics UltraHD rolling cabinet includes four 5” rubber wheels (2-locking), so it’s easy as pie when moving it around the shop! It also has a chrome-plated handlebar for comfortable handling.
This cabinet doesn’t come assembled, but it comes with all the tools and hardware you need to assemble. Putting it together will take a lot of time, so be prepared for that! You can also rest easy because this manufacturer has a one-year limited warranty on their product if anything happens.
Benefits
- This toolbox is compact, so it requires less storage space.
- It has a one-year limited warranty.
- It comes with six drawers that can carry loads of up to 300lb.
- The top wood can serve as a work desk.
- It features four 5” wheels for easy maneuverability around your workshop.
Drawbacks
- It doesn’t come assembled, and it takes a while to assemble.
2. Viper Tool Storage V2605BLR Rolling Cabinet
The Viper Tool Storage V2605BLR rolling cabinet is made of heavy-duty 18-gauge steel with a powder-coated finish that ensures it lasts for years. It measures 18.1” D x 26.6” H x 35.9” W, making it a compact and durable solution for storing tools in your workshop or garage. This cabinet has five drawers of different sizes for storing hand tools and power tools of various sizes.
The first drawer measures 23.75W x 15D x 2.5H, second drawer measures 23.75W x 15D x 3.26H, third drawer measures 23.75W x 15D x 3.26H, forth drawer measures 23.75W x 16D x 6.1H, and the fifth drawer measures 23.75W x 16D x 9.2H. These drawers have a polished feel with heavy-duty features, including ball-bearings and detents to keep your items in place and sleek handles for easy access. Every single one of them can hold loads up to 100lb, making this cabinet weight capacity to be 500lb.
The Viper Tool Storage V2605BLR rolling cabinet also features a 7-pin locking system that secures all the drawers with one lock. It has four 5” x 2” polyurethane locking casters (2 swivels & 2 rigid) and one side handle for you to take your tools wherever they are needed! Be informed that this tool chest doesn’t come assembled, but it comes with all the tools and hardware you’ll need to assemble it on your own. It also includes instructions that are simple enough for anyone who can read!
The only issue with this tool chest is that it has substandard packaging, which leads to damages when shipped and missing parts. However, Viper Tool Storage has a limited lifetime warranty on it, so you can return it if you experience such when you buy it.
Benefits
- It is made from 18-gauge steel.
- It features 5 drawers of different sizes.
- It comes with four 5” x 2” polyurethane casters for easy mobility.
- The manufacturer has a lifetime limited warranty on it.
Drawbacks
- It has substandard packaging.
3. Kennedy Manufacturing 520B Machinist’s Chest
Kennedy Manufacturing company has been building high-quality workbenches, tables, and toolboxes in the USA since 1911. They are known for their machinist chests used by mechanics and carpenters all over the world. This model 520B Machinist chest is made from 20-gauge steel for exceptional durability. It comes with seven drawers with friction slides. Four drawers has 8 ⅝” W x 7 ½” D x 1″ H dimensions, the remaining three has 8⅝” W x 7½” D x 2″ H, 18¼” W x 7½” D x 1½” H, and 18¼” W x 7½” x 1½” H dimensions respectively.
There’s a full-size compartment at the top of the chest made from ½” plywood. Each drawer can accommodate tools up to 90lbs, making the tool chest able to house tools up to 630lb. Thanks to the wool liner in each drawer, your stored tools won’t get damaged. Plus, it locks securely with a sturdy locking system, so your most valuable tools are always safe inside!
Furthermore, this tool chest features drop-down panels that protect the contents from dust and a vinyl padded steel core top handle grip to carry it around comfortably. The best part of the Kennedy 520B machinist chest is its aesthetic design with a rich, brown mahogany color. It also doesn’t require any assembly and the manufacturer has a lifetime warranty on it.
Benefits
- It comes with seven drawers.
- It has a heavy-duty construction.
- There is a wool liner in each drawer to protect tools from getting damaged.
- It doesn’t require any assembly.
- Kennedy Manufacturing company has a lifetime warranty on it.
Drawbacks
- None.
4. Goplus 6-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest Removable Tool Storage Cabinet
Ever open up your tool chest and have to search for the right size wrench? Or struggle with a drawer that won’t close because it’s jammed with tools? These are all frustrations of a common problem: not having enough storage space. With this brilliant Goplus 6-Drawer 2-in-1 rolling tool chest and removable tool chest, you’ll finally have more than enough room for all your hand tools and power tools alike.
This tool chest is made of high-quality steel painted with glossy anti-rust and corrosion-resistant paint, ensuring it lasts long. It features a top work table, four small drawers (22lb load capacity for each), two large drawers (22lb load capacity for each), two trays, four side hooks, and a bottom cabinet (55lb load capacity). The four small drawers have a single key locking system that ensures the safety of your tools. Each of the drawers has ball-bearing rails to allow you to open and close them smoothly. Thanks to the EVA pad liners in them, your stored tools won’t get scratched.
The Goplus 6-Drawer 2-in-1 rolling tool chest and removable tool chest overall measurement is 13” L x 24.5” W x 42.5” H. It can be detached into two parts to suit your storage needs. The top chest measures 20” L x 10.5” W x 13.5” H.
This tool chest is easy to move around. It comes with four sturdy (21” L x13” W x 26” H) swivel casters, of which two come with brakes to give you total control when you move the cart. Plus, it is lightweight (58.5lb) and there’s a raised handle that provides extra control.
The Goplus 6-Drawer 2-in-1 rolling tool chest doesn’t come assembled, but you won’t have any issue putting it together if you follow the included instructions.
Benefits
- It has 6 drawers, 4 side hooks, and a large cabinet for housing tools of different sizes.
- Each drawer has an EVA pad liner to prevent stored tools from getting scratched.
- You can detach it into two separate units for easy storage and flexibility.
- The top chest consists of four drawers with a key locking system to ensure your tools are protected.
- It comes with four wheels. Two of which have brakes.
Drawbacks
- None
5. Festool 200119 SYS 4 Sortainer
Festool 200119 SYS 4 Sortainer is a durable plastic tool chest. Not only does it help with the organization of your tools but, it also keeps them in good condition. It’s designed to suit different professions. You can store anything from power drills & saws to screwdrivers & chisels. The sortainer system has been designed to fit into any workshop or garage setting, no matter how big or small. Its overall dimension is 15.6” L x ll.6” W x 12.7” H, and it weighs 13lb. However, compared to other tool chests in its league, it is overpriced.
The Festool’s 200119 SYS 4 Sortainerp has three 14″ wide x 11″ deep x 2¾” tall drawers that can hold 14.8lb individually. Their ingenious design will keep all your tools organized and within reach whenever you need them! You can set up and divide these drawers however you see fit with plastic containers and partitions. But, these containers and dividers are sold separately.
Furthermore, this tool chest features a pull-out lock that prevents the drawers from pulling out when you open them. The manufacturer, Festool offers other machines that are compatible with this tool chest. Such machines include the SYS-Cart roll board and the Systainer SYS-Roll transporter for mobility, a CLEANTEC mobile dust extractor for extracting dust, T-LOC & Classic Systainers.
Benefits
- This tool chest is made from durable plastic.
- It has a great storage system that keeps your tools well organized.
- It is compatible with other Festool machines.
- Each drawer of this tool chest has a locking system that prevents them from falling off.
Drawbacks
- It is overpriced.
- You’ll have to buy containers and dividers separately to enjoy its storage system.
6. Grizzly Industrial H0839 Tool Chest
The Grizzly Industrial H0839 tool chest is a great investment for any DIYers, carpenters, and woodworkers. It is made of heavy-duty, high-quality steel with a powder coating finish in “Grizzly Green” that will last for years to come. This well-organized tool chest gives you plenty of storage space for all your tools so you can find what you need when you need it. Plus, it has a compact size, measuring 26″ W x 16-13/16″ H x 12″ D.
It features a top lid and nine drawers (six small, two medium, and one large) with ball-bearing slides and protective liners. The small-size drawers measures 6-11/16” W x 1-15/16″ H x 10-13/16″ D, the medium size drawers measures 22-3/8″ W x 1-15/16″ H x 10-13/16″ D, while the large size drawer measure 22-3/8″ W x 2-15/16″ H x 10-13/16″ D. There’s a key locking system that locks all the drawers to keep all of your tools safe from prying fingers or theft.
The Grizzly Industrial H0839 tool chest doesn’t have any wheels, so it isn’t mobile. It weighs 64lb and has two side handles to help with moving it from one place to another. Also, it comes fully assembled.
Benefits
- It comes with nine drawers (six small, two medium, and one large).
- You can lock the drawers with the equipped key locking system to protect your tools.
- It has a heavy-duty steel construction.
- It doesn’t require any assembly, and it’s lightweight for easy transportation.
Drawbacks
- None
7. On-Shine rolling 2-in-1 detachable Tool Chest and Tool Cabinet
Many mechanics need a tool chest to store their tools, but they also need a place for the tools that are being used often. The On-Shine rolling 2-in-1 detachable tool chest and tool cabinet take care of both needs with its sturdy construction and convenient design. It has a size of 24.4” L x 13” W x 42.9” H provides a durable, easy-to-use, convenient way to store your tools.
It features eight drawers, which consist of three mini drawers (7lb load capacity), two small drawers (11lb load capacity), and three large drawers (25lb load capacity). All of the drawers come with pre-cut liners to prevent your stored tools from getting scratched. The top tool chest (23.6” L x 10” W x 15.2” H) has six of the eight drawers with two trays, while the bottom tool cabinet (24.4” L x 13” W x 29.3” H) has two drawers with one big cabinet. You can lock the tool chest drawers and the cabinets thanks to the equipped key locking system. The tool cabinet also has four side hooks to hang wrenches or frequently used tools.
This On-Shine rolling 2-in-1 detachable tool chest and tool cabinet is available in red, black, and orange colors. It is mobile and easy to move around the workshop thanks to its side handle and four casters (two fixed and two swivels with brake). This tool chest and cabinet don’t come assembled, but with the included instructional manual, you should not have any issue when putting it together. However, there are serious shipping issues as many users have complained about it arriving damaged. So, if you decide to buy this product, ensure you check it thoroughly upon delivery.
Benefits
- It has eight drawers, two trays, and four hooks.
- You can get it in red, orange, or black color.
- It is very easy to assemble.
- It has a side handle and four casters (two fixed and two swivels with brake).
Drawbacks
- It ships damaged, so check it thoroughly when delivered.
8. Husky HOUC3603B1QWK Rolling Tool Cart with Wood Top
The Husky tool chest and cart offer ample space for your tools and supplies. With its durable steel construction, this rolling cart is built to last no matter how heavy of a load you put on it. Also, it is compact, measuring (35” L x 40” W x39” H with handle and wheels), making it suitable for any workshop with limited storage space. For the price, it is well worth every penny.
This tool chest/cart has three drawers, of which two measures (14.9” x 13.75” x 4.0”) and the bottom one measures (31.25” x 13.75” x 3.25”). They lock with a key to keep your tools secure, and each of them has a 50lb weight rating. The drawers have slides that are full-extension ball bearing, so they stay open at any position.
The top of this tool cart features a solid wood top that serves as a work desk. At the base is a steel-reinforced tray for storing larger size tools. Thanks to the four 5” x 2” casters and the push bar handle, you can move it easily from one place to another. With the included bolts and pre-installed speed nuts, you’ll be able to assemble it in a matter of minutes.
Benefits
- It is straightforward to assemble.
- It has a wood top that serves as a work table.
- It offers excellent value for money.
Drawbacks
- None.
9. Stalwart 3-in-1 Rolling Tool Box with Wheels
The Stalwart 3-in-1 rolling toolbox has many features that can make your life as an on-the-go carpenter, woodworker, or handyman easier. It is made up of three different compartments to organize and store your tools in one convenient location. The top compartment includes a 19.5” L x 8” W x 10” D open lid box for small tools such as screwdrivers and wrenches, while the bottom 19” L x 9.5” W x 13” D compartment offers storage for other items like nails and screws. The middle 19.5” L x 7” W x 10” D toolbox is designed to hold larger tools like hammer drills and saws.
You can detach the top, middle, and bottom compartments to use separately based on your needs. Also, the bottom compartment has two oversized plastic/rubber wheels and a pull-out handle to help move these toolboxes around when fixed together. Each of the toolboxes features a dedicated spot to place a lock for the security of the tools kept in them.
The Stalwart 3-in-1 rolling toolbox has an overall measurement of 20.5” L x 12” W x 28” H, so it doesn’t take up much storage space and you won’t have any problem taking it along with you to any job site. Be informed that it’s for light-duty use, so it will get damaged if you store heavy tools in it. Also, it doesn’t fare well on stairs.
Benefits
- It can detach into three compartments for flexible use.
- The bottom part has two wheels and a pull-out handle for easy mobility of the three boxes when fixed together.
- You can place a lock on each of the three boxes to safeguard your stored tools.
Drawbacks
- It can’t house heavy tools, otherwise, it would get damaged.
- It is difficult to move on stairs.
10. Keter – 241008 Masterloader Resin Rolling Tool Box
The Keter rolling tool chest is perfect for handymen who want to store all their tools in one place. With a durable polypropylene resin construction, this rolling toolbox can be used on job sites or at home. The resin material is resistant to chemical damage, fading, and scratches, so it’s perfect for those messy projects that leave your tools exposed to harsh elements.
This rolling toolbox has many features to make your job easier and more efficient. It features two top compartments that slide apart to expose the bottom bin for storing large tools like a power drill, flashlight, etc. This bottom bin features a movable divider to manage space efficiently. One of the top compartments has six removable bins that will help you organize all of your small parts like nuts or bolts in one place so they won’t get lost!
With its patented locking system, you’ll have peace of mind knowing that your valuable tools are safe! Unfortunately, the lock is made of inferior plastic and has a poor design (spring-loaded) that requires you to slam the top compartments together to secure the lock, which eventually gets damaged under few uses. Plus, the company doesn’t offer any replacement parts. If you use the tool chest with caution, the lock may last longer for you.
That said, the top-quality tool chest measures 14.88” W x 24.25” D x 16.34” H and can accommodate loads up to 66lb. This cheap tool chest has two sturdy 7” rubber wheels and a metal pull-out handle with a soft grip to haul around the workshop and to any job site. However, the handle is of cheap quality and doesn’t lock in place, making it stressful to move around.
Benefits
- It comes with dividers and bins.
- The tool organizer is portable and doesn’t require any assembly.
- It comes with a durable 7” handle and an extendable handle for convenient maneuverability.
- Sliding top compartments makes it easy to use.
Drawbacks
- The central locking system has a poor design.
- The handle is flimsy and doesn’t lock in place.
Best Tool Chest Under 500 Buying Guide
Finding the right tool chest can be a daunting task. There are so many options to choose from, and they all have their own features that make them unique. It’s not easy to know which one you should buy.
Fortunately, there are some features that you should really consider before deciding on a tool chest: locking system, portability, size, weight capacity, and ease of use (compartment separation), and others. Here is a detailed guide-
Weight Capacity
If you have a lot of large power tools that weigh more than two pounds, then you are probably going to need a heavy-duty tool chest that can hold all your needed tools without buckling or breaking down. A heavy-duty tool chest will be able to hold a lot of tools and equipment without bending or breaking.
You may think that you don’t have loads of tools now and can store them in a cheap chest. But you may never know what types of tools you’ll need in the future, so make sure that your tool chest can handle all sizes and types of stuff you want to store in it for years to come. Not only does it give you peace of mind, but also makes it easier for you to get your job done quickly because of this feature.
Storage Capacity
This refers to how many items can fit into it at once, and not necessarily how much space each compartment has because most chests have adjustable dividers. It’s easy to find a perfect fit for any item by adjusting thinner or thicker dividers depending on what kind of storage needs you have. The more compartments, the better. Some tool chests can store up to 100 or even 200 items. Although you have to buy extra dividers for most of them, it’s a small price to pay considering its storage capacity.
Locking Mechanism
Tool chests often come with an integrated locking system that is designed to keep your tools safe. If you’re somebody who wants peace of mind when storing your valuable tools, then this is one essential feature to look out for.
You may want your tool chest to lock securely during transportation. Some chests have magnetic locks, and some have a key-locking system. It’s up to you which one is more reliable for your needs.
However, I don’t recommend that you buy a tool chest with any built-in combination locks because there is always the chance of forgetting or losing its combination. Look for something that has an internal locking system with keys or at least locks securely with the help of a mere padlock.
There are also some chests available in the market today that have electricity-powered locks. However, I don’t recommend this because if there is a power outage, you won’t be able to access your tools. It’s always a good idea to have locks that are manually operated with a key rather than those fancy automatic ones.
Quality of the materials
Most tool chests are made from metal or plastic, but there are some made from wood as well. If you have a lot of tools that weigh more than two pounds and they’re essential for your job, then it would be better to get a metal one because they usually can hold heavier loads. But if you have smaller tools then a plastic tool chest will do just fine.
Remember, the better build quality means more weight of the chest, which can directly affect mobility.
Portability
A portable tool chest isn’t just beneficial for your workplace because it allows you to take your tools from one place to another effortlessly. It also helps when you are hauling a large load because of the wheels that some chests have as an added feature. If you notice, even a heavy-duty tool chest can’t provide you the best value without wheels. So, make sure you get a chest that’s portable.
Easy access
One of the most common problems that users have with tool chests is getting to their tools. Long, narrow compartments and drawers make it hard to search for your tools in a hurry because you can’t reach them all at once.
If this sounds like something you would want to avoid, then look for a chest with various sizes of compartments that will surely make it easy to put things in order. Some chests even come with trays which will allow you to see the entire tool collection without having to rummage around the whole thing.
Tool Chests Price
Tool chest prices range from as little as $50 to as much as $3000. The average price of tool chests is around $500-$600. If you have a limited budget, then that’s the best place to start because most quality tool chests are in this price range. Even if you think that spending more than 500 bucks on a tool chest is ridiculous, I assure you that there are some great deals for those who are willing to spend few extra dollars and get something worth every penny.
However, always consider how long you’ll use any type of tool chest before buying it because that will determine its durability and value over time. Tool chests definitely aren’t cheap but they can last for many years so it might be wise to invest in a quality product that can last really long.
Final Thoughts
In the past, tool chests were mainly used by carpenters and electricians. But today, these compact tool storage units have become popular for any homeowner with a limited amount of space or who doesn’t want to clutter their home with bulky tools that are only needed occasionally.
Also, a tool chest can be just what small businesses need to keep up with their inventory needs and give them peace of mind when it comes to keeping track of all those tools that are essential for successful day-to-day operations.
In conclusion, we have reviewed each tool storage options that made it to our list thoroughly, covering all the aspects you need to know to make an informed purchase. Remember that there are many different styles and sizes available on the market today, which means there’s sure to be something for everyone!