10 Best Tool Chest Under $500 [Reviewed in 2023]

Nothing boosts productivity like a well-organized workshop, office, or home. Since most professions use different tools & items daily, storing them orderly determines how effective and time-efficient tasks will be done.

A way to achieve orderliness, leading to increased productivity, is by using a quality tool chest. 

A tool chest is a lightweight structure with a lot of storage compartments for items of different sizes.

They help organize your things and can be carried along to various job sites. There are different varieties of them.

Although they can be expensive, but not to worry, we've compiled a comprehensive list with well-detailed features of the 10 best tool chest under $500.

Our 10 Best Tool Chest Under $500 Picks:

Here is our detailed list of the top 10 tool chests that comes at under $500 bucks-

1. CRAFTSMAN Tool Chest with Drawer Liner Roll/Tray Set

CRAFTSMAN is a USA brand that manufactures premium-quality mechanical tools. For almost a century, their tools have been helping technicians worldwide excel in their professions.

Additionally, they create tool chests to organize these tools in one place. One of their tool chests is this CRAFTSMAN 26" tool chest. This structure is compact with enough storage spaces for storing and organizing different size tools.

It is red and has a dimension of 26" L x 16" W x 24.5" H with the top cover closed. Whether you are a plumber, electrician, carpenter, or any workman, this tool chest will keep you organized.

CRAFTSMAN fused sturdy all-steel material with 20 - 24 gauge dual-wall i-frame® to build this tool chest structure. Thus, with this heavy-duty structure, it will last a long time. Furthermore, it has four sturdy, wide drawers for arranging and housing tools of different sizes.

They house tools of 100lb without any issue. In other words, you can store large & heavy equipment in them. These drawers have ball-bearings with a soft latch that gently pull them in, ensuring they don't bang when closed.

This CRAFTSMAN 27" tool chest has a key locking system to protect stored tools. Under the top cover are six integrated power strip with two USB outlets to store and charge power tools, phones, or gadgets.

There is full-grip bail, and tubular side handles for convenient handling of this tool when transporting it. Thanks to the gas struts that support the top cover, opening & closing it is easy and safe.

This tool chest has a 10-years limited warranty. Plus, it requires no assembling and weighs 88lb. It comes packaged with a drawer liner roll and a drawer tray set.

Pros

• Premium-quality tool
• Drawers have a soft latch that won't bang
• Comes with a drawer liner roll and tray set
• 10-year limited warranty
• Heavy duty steel construction
• Power strip and USB cords

Cons

• Heavyweight

2. Goplus 5-Drawer Rolling Tool Chest

Goplus is another USA brand that produces high-quality tools. This red Goplus tool chest is compact but mighty. It doesn't appear big, but the storage capacity is enormous.

It has a measurement of 23" L x 11" W x 40.5" H, from top to bottom. The design of this tool chest makes orderliness easy for any tool-man that owns it. It has the best chest qualities and can be split into a box and a cabinet.

Because it's made from superior steel for stability and durability, the Goplus 5-drawer tool chest is heavy-duty. Plus, it has water-resistant properties.

At the top of this tool chest is a buckled pallet where you can carry out some activity. It features five large drawers for storing tools of any size orderly. Each of these drawers is equipped with a lock bar that stops them from sliding out.

They have EVA cushioning, with anti-seismic and water-resistant properties, to protect stored tools. The two side trays also help store essential smaller tools that always come in handy.

Additionally, there's a spacious bottom cabinet with a removable inner panel that creates more storage space. It has a quick access door for fast storage. The door's interior part has four metal holes for additional organization, plus a metal handle for convenient access.

One unique feature of this Goplus tool chest is that it is detachable into two. The top containing four large drawers can easily detach from the tool cabinet. You can use them independently or together, depending on your need.

This Goplus tool chest excels in ergonomics. The top box has double handles for efficient and comfortable handling. At the same time, the bottom cabinet has trolley handles for the same purpose.

These features make this tool chest easy to use in any working environment. Furthermore, the top box comfortably fits inside the cabinet for easy transportation and storage. However, you'd have to remove the inner panel of the cabinet.

The Goplus 5-drawer rolling tool chest comes with four universal rubber-plastic tires that have sturdy, load-bearing pulley.

Two out of the four tires have a braking-system to provide total control when moving it from place to place.

However, this tool chest doesn't come assembled. But it's easy to assemble thanks to its well-written manual. It has a total load-carrying capacity of 200lb.

Pros

• 2-in-1 too storage unit
• High-quality steel, rubber, and plastic structure
• Excellent ergonomic design
• Load carrying-capacity of 200lb
• Wheels with braking-system
• Plenty of tool storage spaces
• Simple to assemble

Cons

• The structure looks flimsy

3. WEN 73015 Garage Glider Rolling Tool Chest

WEN products are standard among a lot of professions. The brand produces an extensive range of top-class products that cut across different fields. This WEN 73015 tool chest is one of their products that's versatile for various occupations.

Not only that, it combines all the properties of a standardized stool and a tool chest. This attribute makes it super useful for electricians, plumbers, craftsmen, mechanics, and many other occupations that use many tools. Plus, the comfort and orderliness gotten from working with this tool are top-notch.

This WEN 73015 tool chest is made from high-quality steel. It features a comfortable 16" W x 9" L x 2" H extra-absorbent vinyl-secured multiple-layered seat cushioning, which accommodates any type of human body. Note that this seat doesn't open.

Furthermore, it comprises three drawers with dimensions of 12¾" L x 7¾" W x 2 ¼" H each, which houses many tools. However, the drawers aren't lockable and they don't have latches, which makes them slide open.

There are collapsible magnetic trays at both sides for storing nuts, screws, nails, or any small metal objects. The back of this tool chest has sixteen integrated storage notch, suitable for keeping screwdrivers, wrenches, etc.

Moreover, it comes with four 2.5" 360° thick-plastic swivel casters that move left, right, back, forward, or corner ways. These casters have a ball-bearing system that ensures durability and can support a total weight of 350lb. The height of this tool chest is 16" from the seat to the casters.

Its total weight is 27.2lb, which is lightweight for easy movement from one worksite to another. Although the WEN 73015 is relatively small, it has enough room with storage slots to house and organize all your needed tools. This tool chest's total dimension is 16.5" L x 27" W x 16" H, requiring little assembly. And since it's a WEN product, there's a two-year warranty on it.

Pros

• Lightweight
• Assembly is minimal
• Cheap and offers excellent value for money
• Sturdy tool chest combo
• Highly cushioned seat
• Ball-bearing casters

Cons

• Casters don't last long

4. Gerstner International GI-T24 Red Oak 11-Drawer Top Chest

Gerstner International is an American company that manufactures high-quality wooden chests. They've shown innovation, fine woodworking mastery, and perfection in all their products for over a century.

This T24 Oak 11-drawer showcases the true definition of an American style chest. Its total dimension is 24" Wide x 15⅞" Tall x 10" Deep, making it large enough to store and organize larger tools, jewelry, watches, and items alike.

This tool chest is made from American red oak hardwood and veneers with an internal plywood core to have longevity and endurance characteristics. There's a top compartment with dimensions of 22⅞" Wide x 3¼" Tall x 8⅞" Deep, where you can store fragile items often needed. Plus, this top compartment is lockable.

The T24 tool chest features eleven tongue and groove joinery drawers. Six are medium sizes with dimensions of 7½" Wide x ⅞" Tall x 6⅝" Deep. Two are somewhat narrow with dimensions of 3⅝" Wide x 1⅝" Tall x 6⅝" Deep.

While the remaining three are full-width, with two having dimensions of 21⅞" Wide x ⅞" Tall x 6 ⅝" Deep, and the last one having dimensions of 21⅞" Wide x 1⅝" Tall x 6⅝" Deep. These drawers have enough spaces to house a lot of tools and items. However, they have no ball-bearings.

The T24 tool chest weighs 34lb, which means it's light enough for transportation. Further, the sides have metal handles for a comfortable grip when moving it from place to place. However, there's no warranty for this product from Gerstner International.

Pros

• High-quality
• Eleven drawers with different sizes for accommodating various sized tools
• Durable and well-made
• Simple side handles for a comfortable grip
• The top cover is lockable

Cons

• No warranty

5. Keter Rolling Tool Chest

Keter is a well-known name when resin-based storage products are spoken of. This Keter rolling tool chest has helped people create storage spaces in their homes, offices, and workshops.

The flexibility of this tool chest makes it one of the most versatile tool chests on this list. It has many tool storage areas to keep items of different sizes. With a dimension of 23.5" H x 22.1" W x 11.3" D from head to wheels, you sure are going to get an excellent value for your money.

Keter products are made from weather-resistant plastic resin to withstand rusts, dents, and rot, and this chest tool isn't excluded. Its weather-resistant polypropylene resin construction guarantees it will last long.

It features five movable and flexible drawers with different dimensions for items of varying sizes. Four are 2" deep, while the last drawer at the bottom (5" deep) offers the biggest storage space for a power drill, socket set, wrench, and other large tools.

These big drawers are lockable thanks to the central locking system that safeguards stored items before, during, and after use.

This tool chest has well-thought-out ergonomics integrated handles by its sides for easy and smooth movement. Also, it has four locking wheels for easy mobility and control around the workspace.

Flexibility and orderliness are the attributes of this tool chest with the sixteen removable boxes and dividers for screwdriver set, nuts & bolts, and small items that can be custom organized the way you want.

Additionally, this tool chest doesn't come fixed together. It requires minimal assembling. But not to worry, there's a well-written instructional-manual to help with its assembling.

Its dimension without wheels is 19.76" H x 22.1" W x 11.3" D. When put together, it's exceptionally lightweight, weighing only 23.6lb. Plus, you can stack this tool chest with another of its units for additional storage space.

Pros

• Very portable with good build quality
• Made from durable plastic resin
• Requires minimal assembling
• Extremely lightweight
• Easy to transport with tires
• Sixteen removable boxes and dividers for extra storage

Cons

• Drawers don't slide out well

6. Husky 27" 5-Drawer Roller Cabinet Tool Chest

The Husky 27" roller tool chest has the most significant load carrying-capacity on this list with a 1000lb capacity. Its entire structure is constructed from 21 gauge all-welded steel to provide the most excellent durability and endurance.

The exterior has a powder-coated finish to protect it from rust, moisture, and the hustle & bustle of everyday use. This tool chest's total dimension from the top to the casters is 37.4" Height x 27" Width 18.3" Depth. Without wheels, its height is 31.25".

Its black color complements buildings of different colors, making it ideal for use at home, office, workshops, etc.

This tool chest features five fully extendable drawers of different sizes. The first three drawers have dimensions of 23.75" W x 15" D x 3.125" H. Fourth drawer has measurements of 23.75" W x 16" D x 6" H., and the last drawer has measures of 23.75" W x 16" x 9.7" H.

These drawers have a total space capacity of 8,586 cubic inches, making this tool chest well-equipped to accommodate many tools and items of 1000 lb.

They have ball-bearing slide construction for free and smooth access, with a secure 100lb rated latch recall system on each drawer, guaranteeing they stay shut after use. Thanks to the internal locking system with two keys, stored items are safe and secured.

The work surface at the top of this tool chest is ideal for carrying out projects. It has oversized ergonomic handles at both sides for gripping when moving it around.

Additionally, it uses durable 5" x 2" zinc coated solid-rubber casters for extra mobility. However, this unit doesn't come assembled. You'd have to assemble it yourself, which isn't stressful, thanks to the manual it comes with. When assembled, it weighs 120lb.

Pros

• Excellent tool chest
• Sturdy drawers with secure latch system
• It has a load-carrying capacity of 1000lb
• Made with 21 gauge all-welded steel
• Oversized ergonomics handle
• Space capacity of 8,586 cubic inches
• Two keys lock system

Cons

• It doesn't come with keys

7. Kennedy Manufacturing 520B 7-Drawer Machinist's Chest

Howard & Charles Kennedy company is the manufacturers of this industrial-grade seven drawer machinist's tool chest. Every aspect of this chest is made with industrial-grade 20/22 gauge steel to possess industrial-strength, endurance, and durability.

Coupled with the industrial materials is excellent workmanship with over a century of experience in making and designing tool chests. Therefore, this 520B tool chest will last for a lifetime. Its overall dimensions are 20⅛" W x 8½" D x 13⅝" H.

This 520B tool chest has a top cover and includes seven drawers with friction slides. The drawers and top cover are lined with wool to protect precision tools. Four of the drawers has dimensions of 8 ⅝" W x 7 ½" D x 1" H, the remaining three has dimensions of 8⅝" W x 7½" D x 2" H, 18¼" W x 7½" D x 1½" H, 18¼" W x 7½" x 1½" H, respectively.

Altogether, they have a space capacity of 1,694 cubic inches. Each of these drawers can hold up to 90lb. It has five adjustable drawer dividers for a user-customized organization.

This tool chest features a locking mechanism for securing stored items. There's a front drop panel that covers the front of the tool chest when not in use.

Plus, a vinyl padded steel core top handle for a comfortable grip when transporting it.

Overall, this tool chest is highly functional for different use. It's suitable for home, office, and various kinds of workshops. It doesn't require assembling, plus it has a lifetime limited warranty.

Pros

• Multiple tool storage options
• Key locking system
• Industrial grade construction
• Woll-lined drawers

Cons

• None

8. On Shine High Capacity Rolling Tool Chest

On Shine high capacity rolling tool chest is a top choice for those in need of an extensive storage system. The body is made from heavy-duty stainless steel sturdy and coated with a rust-resistant powder to protect its painting from rust, rot, or scratch. It has many storage spaces with an overall dimension of 24.4" L x 13" W x 42.9" H.

This tool chest is the second 2-in-1 tool chest on our list. Its top box is detachable from the bottom cabinet and used separately. This feature makes this tool chest ideal for many different purposes at residences, factories, or workshops.

It has a top box with a table for keeping regularly used tools. The top table opens for extra storage space of 3" L x 10" W x 2.25" H dimensions, thanks to the heavy-duty brackets support. It also has a locking system for securing stored items.

Furthermore, there are three small drawers ( 5.9" L x 8.9" W x 1.4" H), three tray drawers ( 20.3" L x 8.9" W x 1.4/2.8" H), and two wide drawers ( 20.1" L x 11.6" W x 2.8" H) for tool storage solution. All the drawers have ball-bearing slides for smooth operation. Also, each drawer has a pre-cut EVA cushioned liner that makes it shut quietly.

The bottom of this tool chest has a wide storage space of 24" L x 12.2" W x 15.2" H for storing power tools. It has a slide-up lock with a key for security. There are sturdy handles by the top box's sides and a tabular handle by the bottom cabinet's side for steady gripping when moving it from place to place.

Plus, the top box can fit into the bottom cabinet for effortless transportation. Furthermore, there are hooks and hangers for hanging tools on the other side of the bottom cabinet.

This On Shine tool chest comes with four tires, of which two have a braking system for control when it's in motion. It comes assembled and ready to use straight out of the box.

However, it's packaged with the top box kept inside the bottom tool cabinet. All that's needed to do is to remove it and mount it on the bottom cabinet. The Mounted weight is 27lb.

Pros

• Drawers are easy to open
• Stainless steel construction with anti-rust powder coating
• 2-in-1
• Top and bottom drawers have a locking system with key
• Large storage capacity
• Lightweight
• No assembling required

Cons

• Smaller than expected
• The metal is thin but not flimsy

9. Montezuma SM200B 22.5" Portable TRIANGLE Toolbox

The Montezuma SM200B 22.5" triangle tool chest is perfect for technicians, constructors, and mechanics who use small tools. It has an outstanding design that strategically organizes items of small sizes such as screwdrivers, nut drivers, chisel, hex key set, SAE or measuring tools, etc.

This tool chest construction is made from superb 16 gauge steel, coated with UV resistant powder and excellent welded joints. Sturdiness, reliability, and orderliness are the perks of this tool chest. With measurements of 13" L x 22.5" W x 14.13" H, this tool chest has a storage space of 2,980 cubic inches.

The triangle shape and multi-tiered design of this tool chest are user-friendly. It keeps tools in place and makes retrieving them a convenient task.

The cover lid and socket tray features gas springs for easy access to stored items and underneath storage space. There are weatherstripping seals on the lid's sides to ensure it stands up against weather elements such as rain, dust, etc.

Plus, the lid has a pin locking system for the security and safety of items stored in the tool cart.

This tool chest has a compact design with a lot of tool storage options, shelves, and tools division. However, they are welded and can't be adjustable. It weighs 40lb, which is relatively lightweight and makes it easy to move around.

Plus, the ergonomic integrated oversized handle makes carrying it a breeze. You can put this tool chest in a truck, workshop, room, office, or anywhere additional storage space is required. When you buy this tool chest, it comes ready to use straight out of the box. Also, there's a five-year warranty on it.

Pros

• Perfect for storing small hand tools
• Five-year warranty
• Pin locking mechanism
• Triangular shape for easy access to stored items
• Heavy dust steel construction, with all-welded joints
• Weatherproof

Cons

• Cannot store large power tools

10. Stalwart Oversized Portable Tool Chest

Last on this list is the Stalwart oversized 3-in-1 tool chest. This portable tool chest is made from heavy-duty steel, strengthened with injection modeled polymer to last long. Its overall dimension is 21" L x 30" W x 13" H.

It comes with three boxes of different sizes, of which two are detachable for easy transportation from place to place. With this tool chest, you get alot of spaces to organize your items at residence or workshop.

Each of the boxes has enough storage space to store and organize your tools. The middle and top drawers have ball-bearing construction that ensures the slide-out and shut smoothly.

The top box has dimensions of 19.5" L x 9" W x 7" H, middlebox dimensions are 19.5" L x 9" W x 13" H, while the bottom tilt-out box dimensions are 19" L x 9" W x 9" H.

Additionally, there are overlapping holes outside each tool box to secure and protect stored items with a small padlock. However, they don't come with padlocks.

This portable tool chest comes with a movable back carrying handle and two plastic-rubber slide casters for convenient transportation from place to place.

Note that it doesn't have waterproof nor weather-resistant properties. So don't use it in the open. When the boxes are attached as one, don't lift them with the handle as it may break. There are handles by the top & middle box sides, which you can use to lift the entire unit. Also, combined, they weigh 33.4lb.

Pros

• Offers good value for money
• 3-in-1 long lasting tool cart
• Lightweight
• Big handles and wheels for easy transportation

Cons

• The handle is flimsy and may not last long
• Now waterproof or weatherproof property

Husky Tool Chest vs Craftsman Comparison

As we have already reviewed both tool chests, you should have already got the differences. For convenience, here is a quick recap of what we have shared with you above.

Husky tool chest is bigger than the Craftsman, which results in a higher price point. So, Husky is more expensive, more spacious, and has more capacity than the Craftsman tool chest.

Another key thing worth mentioning is mobility. Husky has better mobility with its wheels whereas Craftsman requires you to lift it, in case you want to move the chest. Craftsman products have handles on the side to give you a bit of comfort lifting.

However, Craftsman gives you a good warranty assurance, which is not present in Husky.

The model we have compared here are- Craftsman CMST82768RB and Husky H4CH1R.

Best Tool Chest Under $500 Buying Guide

As you end up reading the top 10 good tool chest for the money, you may be wondering how did we pick them for you. So, here are the criteria based on which we have selected the top 10 products for you.

Storage Capacity

Tool chests are for storing tools. So, you must check the capacity of the storage before making the decision.

How many tools do you have in your possession that needs to be organized in the tool chest, is a question you should ask yourself. Plus, plan for future tool purchases needs to be in mind as well so that you don't end up purchasing another tools organizer within a year.

Consider finding a easily portable large cabinet with large working surface.

The Durability of the Chest

After picking up the right size of the tool chest, the next thing to check is the durability of the product. To figure out how long the product will last, you should consider the build material of the chest, which we will describe in the next heading.

Make sure all the components are durable, the structure, drawers, caster wheels, locks, etc. are structurally sound. Many cheap products come with good quality body with compromises in the other parts that end up costing the user a lot. So, don't skip the small parts.

Types of Tool Chests

You will see three types of build materials in the tool chests, i.e. Steel, Wood, and Plastic.

1. Steel Tool Chests

Steel build chests are the best when it comes to durability. These are less prone to wear and tear. Plus, you can use those almost anywhere without any hesitation.

However, steel chests are heavyweight in most cases. So, you must take a product with good quality caster wheels. And the price is also comparatively higher than the other two materials.

In the metal category, there are aluminum tool chests as well. But we don't recommend those very often as most of them don't fulfill all of the criteria.

2. Wooden Tool Chest

Wooden chests are uncommon nowadays. But they were the dominant in the industry, only a few years ago. Because of the heavyweight, expensive price point, yet prone to damages by metal tools, people don't feel comfortable with wooden tool chests.

However, there are some products still available in the market that are of good quality and can serve you for years.

We recommend these for the people looking for some aesthetically sound products in their garage.

3. Plastic Made Chests

Generally, we don't recommend using plastic made products as they are not eco-friendly, and is not structurally sound enough to keep your heavy items in good condition for long.

However, if you are looking for a cheap tool chest in the budget, and you are not intending to use that for organizing heavy objects, you can consider those options as well.

Plus, there are some tool chests still available that are made of plastic yet comes with top-notch structural integrity.

Drawers

The number of drawers and the quality of them are crucial factors to consider as well. We recommend going with as many spacious drawers as possible at your budget without compromising the quality.

Plus, versatility in drawer size is also important. Not all tools need 10" depth in the drawer, nor you can fit all in a drawer with 3" depth.

So, versatility is important to keep all your tools organized.

Mobility & Noiseless Operation

A tool chest must have casters to be mobile. It is not feasible to carry heavy tools here and there while you have a tool organizer.

That's why we recommend our visitors to go with the products that come with top-notch casters. Ensure easy mobility without making noise.

Apart from the caster wheels, you should consider the noise factor in drawer slides as well. No one loves to hear 'grrrrrr' sound or 'bang' in every opening and closing of the drawers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Best Tool Chest for the Money?

We recommend the Craftsman 26" model that we have reviewed at the top of this article.

The product has passed all the criteria that we have considered to pick the top 10 products for this buying guide. It is durable, has versatility, and can be used for storing heavy tools.

Why Should I Purchase a Tool Chest?

If you own a decent amount of tools and those are not organized properly. Or you may get it difficult managing and finding them when needed. Then, a tool chest can make your job a lot easy and effortless.

These provide you space to organize the tools and carry tools around almost effortlessly.

Are Snap-on Boxes Worth the Money?

Yes, snap-on tool boxes well worth the money. These keep your tools well-organized. Keeps your garage neat. And most importantly, you don't need to spend half an hour to remember where you have left the tool after using last time. You will open the box and start using the tool.

Plus, these boxes are pretty durable, and hence, you won't need to buy another one in near future.

Why are Tool Chests So Expensive?

The build materials and complicated designs are the two main factors behind the expensive tool chests. People store many types of tools, from heavy hammers, impact guns, and wrenches, to small screwdrivers. So, manufacturers make the tool chest considering the rough usage over time. They make the chests structurally sound by using high-grade steels and other quality materials. So, tool chests become expensive in the end.

Who Makes Good Tool Boxes?

You will find thousands of toolbox manufacturers, but not all of them make quality products. In our research and experience, we found that Craftsman, Goplus, WEN, Gerstner, and Keter are the top 5 brands that make good quality toolboxes worth buying.

Final Thought

Having a tool chest around is an essential commodity. Not only does it help with organizing tools, but it also helps protect them.

Lightweight, portable, multiple storage spaces, friendly ergonomic design, and sturdiness are the tool chest properties in our list. 

There are plastic, wooden, and steel tool chests on the list, with all under $500, offering excellent value for money. We've reviewed each of them per their specs and features. And we hope you find the perfect tool chest for your needs.

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