Here's the thing, hexagonal screws are utilised in an array of products, these include but are not limited to tables, toilet paper holders and bikes - but one thing you need to keep handy is an Allen key. Also known as 'hex keys', these nifty little pieces of metal should be an integral part of your toolkit, whether you're a DIY expert or are just starting out.
What exactly does an Allen key do? Well, it allows you to loosen or tighten screws - and these keys or wrenches will come in a set of different sizes and will also have other subtle differences. These differences could be arm lengths, or they could be end types - and you may even find that storage cases are different too.
The Best Allen Keys At A Glance:
Best for a budget: Amazon Basics Hex Key/Allen Wrench Set - View offer on Amazon UK
Best for being colour-coded: Sealey Long Ball End Hex Key Set - View offer on Amazon UK
Best for ease of layout: Rolson Hex Key Set - View offer on Amazon UK
Best for compactness: Stanley Folding Hex Key Set - View offer on Amazon UK
Like any DIY supply, it can be hard to know what is going to serve you the best or be best suited to your needs. Ultimately, it all depends on what exactly you will be needing to adjust. So, as well as our guide, you will need to be confident in the DIY task at hand so you don't buy the wrong type of Allen key.
Check out some of our favourite sets below.
Best for a budget
You get lots for your money as this set comes as a two-pack. That's right, this 26-piece hex key set is top pick for good reason. These Allen keys are long arm, which makes them perfect for quickly tightening or loosening fasteners. They are standard and metric sizes too.
Our Thoughts: One lot has markings for inches, and the other has millimetres, so you can work with both metric and standard. We love how the cases can be opened up or folded away because it makes storage that whole lot easier.
Pros
- Up to 25-degree entry angle
- Nice smooth finish
Cons
- Could be more durable
Best for being colour-coded
Bright and colourful, these look like pens in a pencil case and will be easy to find at the bottom of your toolbox. You get two complete sets of hex Allen keys, and what's better is that these are colour-coded for efficient and straightforward access. And, you will be pleased to know that the colour coating that has been used on these is long-lasting, so actually they should keep in pretty good condition.
Our Thoughts: They are nice and long and coated in a non-slip substance, so you can grip them firmly. We know you'll appreciate the colours, as they make each size easy to identify when you're hurrying to get a job done.
Pros
- Comes in a compact case
- Proper timesaver
Cons
- Enamel coating could chip slightly
Best for ease of layout
Here's a simple set that deserves a spot on our list and your basket purely for its layout. These hex keys are quality as far as precision is concerned - and this is down to the standard arm metric along with the longer arm imperial. These hex keys also come complete with a case, which makes them for especially easy and convenient user-friendly layout.
Our Thoughts: Made from polycarbonate, one side will fit imperial bolts, whilst the other, longer side will fit metric, which is simple to remember.
Pros
- Sits inside a durable carry case
- Ideal for regular usage
Cons
- A little soft
Best for compactness
If you're prone to losing your belongings, a clever little piece of kit like this is just what you need. All of the hex keys stored in this folding set are marked by size, and this gives you especially easy access and also key identification, which just makes your DIY-ing that bit easier.
Our Thoughts: Perfect for on-the-go. It holds all of the Allen keys inside, you just simply need to unfold the one you need, and you will be ready to tighten or loosen any screws.
Pros
- Accurate measurements
- Can fit in your pocket
Cons
- Could be longer
Best for comfort
How smart does this collection look? It could sit pride of place on your garage or workshop shelves. This set has been made from hardened and also tempered chrome vanadium steel.
Our Thoughts: Each one fits perfectly onto the stand and can be easily pulled out and accessed when you are in a hurry. We love the t-shaped handles because they provide plenty of comfort and prevent them from slipping out of your hands.
Pros
- Clear measurements on the display stand
- Nice thick section to clasp onto
Cons
- Takes up a bit of room compared to other cases
What type of material should an Allen key be made out of?
Ideally, the Allen keys in your tool box should be constructed from a metal such as steel, which is durable and holds its shape. If made out of plastic or soft metal, they may become worn down and eroded on the sides, thus making it harder to fit precisely into the screws and bolts.
Is there a difference between a hex key and an Allen key?
There is no difference - because they are the same thing! Hex keys and Allen keys are two different names for the same tool.
Are there different types of Allen keys?
Allen keys really have a range of styles that can suit your DIY needs, but the most common are the L-shaped key, the T-handle key and also the ball-end key.
What is the most common Allen key?
The most common Allen key that many of us DIYers rely on is the L-shaped Allen key - you will find that these can be easily sourced.
Why does IKEA use Allen keys?
The truth is that the Allen key and the flat packs make it possible for the furniture supplier to keep prices down without compromising on form, function or quality. Also, flat packs take up much less space than fully assembled, so this means that they can be transported cheaper from the factory to the store and then on to your home.
Caitlin Evans is a Content Optimisation Executive with a passion for finding the best products on the market. She specialises in identifying features that make a product stand out from the rest that will help people make informed buying decisions.