Having the right tools can make all the difference when tackling home improvement projects. Whether you’re a seasoned DIYer or just starting out, a few essential tools should be in every toolbox. From a reliable hammer for general tasks to a laser level for accurate measurements and a cordless drill for efficient assembly, these tools are crucial for making any DIY project a breeze.

Top 10 must-have tools for DIYers

Craftsman 20-oz fiberglass hammer

Price: $11.98

Buy it on: Amazon

Having a hammer is a must for any DIY project. The Craftsman 20-oz fiberglass hammer is the perfect budget hammer designed for durability and comfort. The over-mold grip provides a solid hold, whether hammering nails or prying them out. It’s also lightweight, helping to reduce hand fatigue during heavy-duty and repetitive tasks such as framing and home repairs.

AikTryee multipurpose laser level kit

Price: $9.95

Buy it on: Amazon

If you’re installing anything, you must ensure its level. The AikTryee multipurpose laser level is a highly versatile tool that is perfect for achieving precise and level measurements in various tasks. It features three laser modes: vertical, horizontal, and cross lines. Switching between modes is easy with a single slider button at the front, ensuring smooth and stable adjustments, even for beginners. The laser level also comes with bubble levelers to provide additional precision, with one level at 0°, one plumb at 90°, and another at 45°, giving you complete control over your projects.

Takuoo cordless 1/2 inch brushless impact wrench

Price: $101.99

Buy it on: Amazon

Efficiency is key with lengthy projects. The Takuoo cordless impact wrench is perfect for DIY enthusiasts tackling more challenging projects like assembling furniture or home renovations. With 740 ft-lbs of torque, it can easily handle tasks requiring extra power. The brushless motor ensures long-lasting performance, while the three adjustable speed settings offer precision depending on the job. It includes two 4.0Ah batteries and a fast charger, so you won’t need to worry about downtime. 

Black+Decker 20V MAX PowerConnect cordless drill/driver

Price: $49

Buy it on: Amazon

Most projects working with wood or metal require a drill/driver. The affordable Black+Decker 20V MAX PowerConnect cordless drill/driver is a versatile and compact tool that works around the home. It comes with a 30-piece set of accessories, including drill and driving bits, ensuring you can tackle any project. It’s also beginner friendly with a 24-position clutch that helps prevent overdriving screws to give you more control. Plus, it’s lightweight and features an ergonomic, soft-grip handle for comfort during extended use. 

SUNHZMCKP magnetic screwdriver set 66-piece

Price: $29.99

Buy it on: Amazon

Many DIY projects require a variety of different screws. The SUNHZMCKP 66-piece magnetic screwdriver set is perfect for DIYers and professionals alike. It includes a variety of screwdrivers, such as Phillips, slotted, Torx, and precision types, along with a 40-piece bit set for added versatility. The ergonomic, triangle-shaped handles prevent rolling and provide comfortable use, while the magnetic tips ensure easy handling of screws. The entire set is housed in a sturdy plastic case, making it a convenient, portable choice.

Skil 5080-01 13-Amp 7-1/4″ circular saw

Price: $39.99

Buy it on: Amazon

When it comes to making quick and efficient cuts at home, this saw is a no-brainer. The Skil 5080-01 circular saw is a budget pick compared to other expensive brands, but it can still make powerful and precise cuts. It features a 13-amp motor that can cut up to a 51-degree angle with positive stops, providing the versatility a DIY project may require. An added bonus is the built-in dust blower that helps your cutting line stay clear, providing better visibility and precision while working.

Craftsman 25-ft tape measure with fraction marking

Price: $11

Buy it on: Amazon

It’s fair to say that most, if not all, DIY projects require measurements. The Craftsman 25-ft tape measure is durable and provides up to 25 feet of reach with two people and 13 feet of reach alone. It also features an easy-to-read blade with printed fractions that alternate color and height, making measurements quick and accurate. 

Workpro 7-piece pliers set

Price: $19.99

Buy it on: Amazon

Pliers are essential for DIY projects, whether you’re gripping and bending wires to shape them for an electrical repair or removing stubborn nails from a wooden surface. The Workpro 7-piece pliers set is a versatile and durable addition to any DIY toolkit. This set includes an 8-inch groove joint, 8-inch and 6-inch slip joint, 7-inch linesman, 6-inch diagonal, and 6-inch and 4.5-inch long nose pliers. The hardened cutting edges ensure ease and precision when cutting through materials, while the double-dipped comfort grip handles provide a secure, non-slip hold during use.

Carpenter square

Price: $9.98

Buy it on: Amazon

A carpenter’s square is a must when working with wood. It ensures perfect right angles during cuts. It also helps measure precise angles or straight lines for accurate layouts during construction tasks. With many DIY projects involving wood, this simple yet highly effective tool cannot be overlooked. 

Stud finder with LCD display

Price: $27.99

Buy it on: Amazon

If you need to locate studs behind walls for securely mounting heavy objects like shelves or TV brackets or simply prevent accidentally drilling into electrical wires or pipes, then a stud finder should be in your tool kit. This stud finder lets you locate the edges and centers of studs, joists, metal, pipes, and live AC wires behind walls, floors, and ceilings. It features multiple scan modes, including stud, deep, and metal scans, providing flexibility for various materials and depths. The bright, backlit LCD display and audio alerts make it easy to use in all lighting conditions, providing visual and audible guidance to help you pinpoint the exact location of objects behind walls.

Bottom line

Without the right tools, even the simplest DIY project can become frustrating and time-consuming. Yet no one wants to spend their savings buying tools they seldom use. Whether you’re planning to renovate your home or perform a quick fix, it’s important to consider what tools you will actually need before you splurge. Our list of 10 tools is a great start to getting the job done for most DIY projects.