The best insulated screwdrivers are a must-have for electricians working on projects that could involve live circuits and wiring. Well to be precise, regular screwdrivers are NOT meant to be used with live circuits or electrical work! Instead insulated screwdrivers are used as an additional layer of safety in case circuits are turned on allowing power to flow – but nevertheless you should always turn off circuits and use an isolation switch to avoid a visit to the hospital!
In reality, insulated screwdrivers are protecting you in case someone turns on the circuit or someone does something where power would start flowing to the circuit. You should always assume wiring or circuits are live to avoid electric shock.
In this short article we summarize the best insulated screwdrivers sets below and in more detail further in the article. We also compare insulated vs. non-insulated ones of popular manufacturers. This way you can be confident you have purchased the right screwdriver set for your personal or professional needs! While most blogs offer the 10 best piece set, we focus on the 9 best for now until we find one more we think is worthy!
Contents
Insulated Screwdrivers vs. Non-Insulated Screwdrivers
An insulated screwdriver is designed for electricians working on electrical components and normally means the tool has insulated materials that insulates the metal from the hands of the electrician using the tool. This insulation breaks conductivity and provides the additional layer of protection mentioned above. The only area of the insulated screwdriver that is not insulated is typically the tip.
But! Some rubber tipped screwdrivers do exist which provide protection as well and can be useful for some components where metal to metal contact could also cause cosmetic damage. These work in a similar manner, protecting the user from electrical current, although we feel the protection factor is typically less.
In case you missed it above, so why the need for insulated screwdrivers? If an electrician uses a screwdriver that is not insulated with a live circuit, it can cause that person to be electrocuted or experience electric shock which can be fatal and result in loss of life.
Another benefit of using them is the prevention of damaging electronics on certain electrical appliances in the event of a short or power surge while making repairs or updates. Again, electricians should turn off circuits and power to wiring, following standard safety protocols and use an isolation switch.
The best insulated screwdrivers tend to be offered from brands known to many as Klein, Wiha, Milwaukee, Wera, Greenlee and DeWalt and most offer a multi piece screwdriver set.
We recommend the below brands and sets based on our reviews and reviews of those sourced from the internet. Given the chance for health risk, we do not recommend purchasing cheap tools (i.e. 99 cent store electrician screwdrivers if they exist – such stores are good for throwaway tools like an extra flat head) as the insulation integrity may not be worth savings a few dollars over your health!
Whether you need a new insulated screwdriver set or just a few tools to replace aging ones in your toolbox, every electrician will make great use of these long lasting additions for electrical work.
Best Screwdriver Brands
So you are looking for a set of insulated screwdrivers? Insulated screwdrivers or piece set are quite plentiful and navigating brands can be daunting. A quality set is a must for professional electricians.
But when you are shopping around for professional electrician tools that are heavy duty you will want to buy from a brand that is trusted – especially since these tools could potentially save your life one day! We’ve noticed that insulation integrity is noticable of better quality from these top brands and likely to last longer than cheaper brands.
The below listed brands are among the most popular and trusted by electricians. We’ve compiled some information about each brand for your reference. We list below common features of screwdriver sets such as limited lifetime warranty to make sure you are buying quality tools.
From our list we list the screwdriver set with the standard voltage protection – some sets offer as much as 10,000 volts – we do not see the demand or need for 10,000 volts of protection, 1000 volts seems sufficient, but if you are working on special applications beyond a standard residential or commercial setup, you may want to consider those to avoid electric shock! Many sets are individually tested for voltage ratings.
Other sought after features of high quality tools are:
- Magnetic tips
- Lifetime warranty which are fairly standard among premium screwdriver sets these days to help pick up screws.
- Chrome vanadium
- Layered insulation
- Slotted screwdrivers
- Impact resistant
- Carrying case
With our initial research and the experience of those who have been using a screwdriver set for some time, we’re confident you will find these to be among the best insulated screwdriver sets in the market which options for those on a budget, professionals, or those in between!
Wiha
Since 1939, Wiha Tools has been producing hand tools and is known for quality products. Wiha is based in Switzerland, a country known for producing precision instruments of high quality – you can be rest assured Wiha supports that reputation with its high quality tools.
Wiha produces many insulated screwdriver sets and as a result, we have listed four sets within our best insulated screwdriver list from Wiha. Many professional electricians who own Wiha tools claim the brand handles wear and tear easily owning sets for decades! Wiha insulated screwdrivers are normally rated for 1000 volts.
Klein Tools
Klein Tools is one of the original tool manufacturers, having since produced tools since 1857! They also make their hand tools in the United States, a plus for those who prefer products created in America, which is increasingly rare. Before manufacturing largely went to China from the US, American products had a reputation for being well-built and long lasting.
Today it remains a preferred brand among electricians and remains committed to producing tools in the United States. Klein continues to the tradition with producing high quality insulated screwdriver sets.
Greenlee
Greenlee is another older brand, in existence since 1862, just a few years younger than Klein. Similar to Klein Tools, they also design, assemble, and manufacture some tools in the United States within seven facilities in the country. Greenle is a premium brand known for being heavy duty so we had to include them!
Popular sets include Greenlee 0153, the one we recommend below.
Milwaukee Tools
Milwaukee Tools has ascended in popularity over the years and you can find its tools easily at major hardware and home improvement stores. Found in 1924 it has developed a following of customers and develops many types of tools.
Milwaukee Tools is now owned by Techtronic Industries, which is based in Hong Kong. Only some of the tools sold by Milwaukee are now manufactured in the US. Milwaukee Tools, while very popular with power tools, does also create screwdrivers. Milwaukee insulated tools are trusted by professionals around the world and you should consider the brand.
Wera Tools
Wera tools is a near century old, having been founded in 1936 in Germany. It’s famous slogan “Be a Tool Rebel” is popular amongst electrician professionals. Tools are made in Germany and the Czech Republic, and Wera Tools is unique as they largely concentrate on screwdrivers but they also make other accessories and some power tools.
Wera Tools are known to be of high quality and pricing reflects that. While we did not find a lifetime guarantee, they do have a policy to repair or replace within 12 months of purchase.
Wera also makes a line that includes their wera kraftform grip technology that conforms to your hand – it is kind of like memory foam beds but for your hands! We have to admit that wera kraftform sounds really nice but it hasn’t become as popular as one may expect.
Kraftform Plus is a Wera Tools feature that allows electricians to amplify their handforce when using the screwdrivers with less effort This translates into less fatigue and strain for your entire hand, wrist and arm. Kraftform Plus nice feature if you have mobility issues, suffering from a recent injury, or just work so hard you need help.
DeWalt
DeWalt is an American global manufactured of power tools and hand tools. It is owned by Black & Decker, another global brand. DeWalt was founded in 1924 so it has been in existence for some time.
DeWalt makes a variety of tools including power tools anchors, insulated tools, accessories, hand tools and much more.
Best Insulated Screwdriver
Below we have listed the set of insulated screwdrivers for electricians, and we determined the best through our personal experiences with brand, recommendations from colleagues, and online feedback. The sets vary in size and price to accommodate varying needs.
Our overall recommendation is to stick with the better brands – it’s better to buy quality and have something that will last. Most importantly, reputation is important here, these screwdrivers may save your life! It’s not the time to trust cheap brands.
Wiha 32095 Slotted and Phillips Insulated Screwdriver Set, 1000 Volt, 19 Pieces
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Description:
One of the most COMPLETE insulated screwdriver sets for an electrician – if you are starting out or need new tools, this is a great screwdriver set. The set comes with all the tools you will need and can work a job confidently knowing there will not be a time you will not have what you need.
Created by Wiha, they are high quality and feature magnetic tips. Each screwdriver is labeled by the end cap for easy identification. Crafted in Germany, this set of insulated screwdrivers are of high quality, rated for 1000 volts and have excellent reviews.
Insulated Screwdriver sizes:
2.5, 3.0, 3.5, 4.0, 4.5, 5.5, 6.0, 6.5, 8.0, 10.0mm. Phillips #0, 1, 2, 3. Square #1, 2. Xeno Terminal #1, 2. Single pole voltage detector in light weight tool box tray.
| Pros | Cons |
| High quality brand | Expensive |
| Contains most screwdrivers you’ll ever need (flat head, phillips etc.) | Handles are plastic (albeit high quality) |
| 1,000 volts AC rating | |
| Cushioned grips for better torque | |
| Includes storage tray |
Wiha 32080 | 10 Piece Insulated SoftFinish Cushion Grip Screwdriver Tray Set
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Description:
Like Wiha tools but don’t need the 19 piece tool set above and want to pay a bit less? This may be your next best bet. This insulated screwdriver set includes many of the most commonly used tools with the same great quality as the above set. If your jobs are fairly routine you should be alright with this screwdriver set.
As above, these are created by Wiha, so they are high quality and rated for high voltage of 1000 volts. Each screwdriver is labeled by the end cap for easy identification. Crafted in Germany, they are of high quality and have near perfect reviews.
Insulated Screwdriver sizes:
Slotted 3.5, 4.5, 4.5, 5.5, 6.5mm | Phillips #1, #2, #3 | Square #1, #2
| Pros | Cons |
| High quality brand | Moderately priced |
| Contains a fair share of screwdrivers you’ll need | Handles are plastic (albeit high quality) |
| Rated 1,000 volts AC rating (individually tested up to 10,000 volts AC) | |
| Cushioned grips for better torque | |
| Includes storage tray |
Wiha 32093 Slotted and Phillips Insulated Screwdriver Set, 1000 Volt, 10 Piece
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Description:
Another good set from Wiha, but what is the difference to the ones above? Primarily the lack of the SoftFinish grips, which help cushion your fingers on on the tool. This toolset does have its own cushion though so it may not be all that different. It also does not include the tray for keeping the screwdrivers organized.
If you need a second screwdriver set or just do not find yourself using these screwdrivers as often, this may be a better choice for those doing electrical work once in awhile.
Similar to the above Wiha insulated screwdriver sets, they are high quality and rated for high voltage of 1000 volts as the other sets. Each screwdriver is labeled by the end cap for easy identification.
Insulated Screwdriver sizes:
Slotted 3.5, 4.5, 4.5, 5.5, 6.5mm | Phillips #1, #2, #3 | Square #1, #2
| Pros | Cons |
| High quality brand | Moderately priced |
| Contains a fair share of screwdrivers you’ll need | Handles are plastic (albeit high quality) |
| 1,000 volts AC rating | Lacks tray for storage/organization |
| Chrome vanadium tool steel | No SoftFinish grips so may not be as comfortable/suitable for regular use |
Wiha 35890 Insulated Slotted Phillips and Square Screwdriver Set, 6-Piece
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Description:
If you want a basic set but insist on quality, consider this 6-piece insulated screwdriver set from Wiha.
This set comes with only the essentials but should be all you need if you just want a few screwdrivers to replace damaged or aged ones. These are not SoftFinish grips but should be fine for very light or occasional use.
Similar to the above Wiha screwdriver sets, they are high quality and rated for 1K volts (1000 volts) AC. Each screwdriver is labeled by the end cap for easy identification.
Insulated Screwdriver sizes:
Slotted 4.5, 6.5mm, Phillips #1, #2 & Square #1, #2
| Pros | Cons |
| High quality brand | Low priced |
| Contains just a few essential screwdriver sizes | Handles are plastic (albeit high quality); No SoftFinish grips so may not be as comfortable/suitable for regular use |
| 1,000 volts AC rating | Lacks tray for storage/organization |
| May not be a smart choice if you will use them very often for comfort reasons |
1000V Insulated Electrician Screwdriver Set, All-in-One Premium Professional 13-Pieces
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Description:
This 13 piece set insulated screwdriver set from Hurricane has all the essentials, complete with certifications (VDE and GS) for protection up to the standard volts recommended.
Hurricane isn’t as well known of a brand as Wiha, Klein or Greenle, but these will get the job done if budget is a factor.
For the price, they are a good value, and this set comes with a nice carrying case is included as well. They will noticeably be of lesser quality than some of the brands mentioned above but will work well in most situations. These are made in China.
Like with many things in life – you get what you pay for – some common complaints: Length of screwdrivers are a bit short, the carry case quality is cheaply made specifically the holding clips, they are not made of as high quality so sometimes there is some extra movement.
Insulated Screwdriver sizes:
4.0mm, 6.5mm, 5.5, 3.0, Phillips #1, #2, Pozidriv #1, #2, Torx 10, 15, 20
| Pros | Cons |
| High quality brand | Low priced |
| Contains essential screwdriver sizes | Handles are plastic (albeit high quality) |
| 1,000 volts AC rating | Lacks tray for storage/organization |
| No SoftFinish grips so may not be as comfortable/suitable for regular use | May not be a smart choice if you will use them very often for comfort reasons |
| Storage case |
Wera Tools WERA Kraftform Plus 160i/6 Insulated Professional Screwdriver Set, Six Piece
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Description:
If you need a simple smaller screwdriver set, this Wera tools may be a good bet. It’s from Wera tools so it is known for quality thanks to its German engineering. Thanks to its Wera Kraftform technology, it is comfortable to use for long periods of time. Many persons buy this at there “workhorse” set and buy a larger set to have other sizes.
Wera tools has a limited lifetime warranty where their hand tools like this screwdriver set are covered by a lifetime warranty against breakage due to defects in materials or workmanship for the normal life of the product. More details can be found on their website.
As with other screwdriver sets, they have been thoroughly tested for safety and voltage ratings. As a bonus they have other smart design engineering – including different grip zones with different feels to make it comfortable yet functional.
Lasertips help prevent the screwdrivers from slipping (hopefully not into your hand – it’s happened to me many times), and finally color-coding and anti-rolling help prevent time wasting.
Many users of this set claim they are among the most comfortable and recommend them as a “core” set.
Insulated Screwdriver sizes:
Phillips 1×80; Phillips 2×100; Slotted: 0,4 2,5 x 80; 0,8 4,0 x 100; 0,6 3,5 x 100; 1,0 5,5 x 125
| Pros | Cons |
| Wera tools engineering – high quality, durable, functional | It’s a smaller set and not exactly cheap |
| Wera Kraftform will keep your fingers from getting blisters | Only one screwdriver has lasertips for non-slippage |
| Tested for 1,000 volts protection | |
| Color coding helps you find the tool quickly | |
| Limited lifetime warranty | |
| Mountable tool rack included |
Klein Tools 94130 1000V Insulated Screwdriver Tool Set with #2 Phillips and 1/4-Inch Cabinet Slim Tips, 2 Pliers and Wire Stripper
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Description:
If tool quality and safety are top of mind for you – we recommend spending the extra cost on this insulated screwdriver set. Created by Klein Tools, who has been manufacturing high quality, professional grade tools for over 160 years, these tools are made to last. Reviewers swear by their quality and craftsmanship – and nearly all reviews are positive.
While this set of screwdrivers only contains five tools, they are the essential tools for a typical electrician. Unique to this set from the others is that pliers and a wirecutter are included.
Their safety features are unique too – given you’ll be working with wires that potentially carry live voltage, these screwdrivers employ three-part layered insulation with underlayer on the included pliers and wire stripper which provides a warning sign that insulation may be damaged. If safety is your focus, and it should if you are working with live wires, we recommend this screwdriver set.
Insulated Screwdriver sizes:
Slim tip #2 Phillips and 1/4-Inch Cabinet tip
| Pros | Cons |
| High quality brand – the “Rolls Royce” of tools | High priced |
| Contains essential screwdriver sizes and pliers | You just receive a few tools, and only two screwdrivers |
| 1,000 volts AC rating | Lacks tray for storage/organization |
| Safety features – three-part layered insulation | |
| Meets major safety standards |
Greenlee 0153 Insulated Screwdriver Set: 9-Piece
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Description:
If you’re want to have a complete set of screwdrivers, from a good brand, for good value, then this quality set may be your best bet. This Greenlee set offers 9 essential screwdrivers with a storage carrying case, backed by a brand in existence since 1862.
Online ratings are excellent and many reviewers comment that the rival the Klein screwdriver set. This Greenlee set includes two layers of insulation which is very good for protection. They are rated for the usual thousand volts of AC and meet professional standards for safety and reliability.
Greenlee operates seven facilities in the United States to manufacture these tools, so if buying in the US is a requirement for you, this screwdriver set should be among your top picks.
Insulated Screwdriver sizes:
Keystone Slotted 1/4 in x 4 in , 3/16 in x 4 in , 3/16 in x 6 in , 3/16 in x 8 in , 5/16 in x 6 in , 3/8 in x 10 in , Phillips #1×3 in , #2×4 in , #3×6 in
| Pros | Cons |
| High quality brand | High priced |
| Contains a comprehensive set of screwdriver sizes | No pliers or non-screwdriver tools |
| 1,000 volts AC rating | |
| Safety features – two-part insulation | |
| Meets major safety standards | |
| Made in the USA |
Milwuakee 1000-Volt Insulated Screwdriver Set and Carrying Case
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Description:
Milwaukee is a popular brand amongst professionals and this insulated screwdriver set with case doesn’t disappoint. Like the other sets this is rated for a thousand volts AC.
The ten piece Milwaukee insulated set means you will have a screwdriver for every job and the carry case keeps things organized, including slotted screwdrivers.
The build quality isn’t as good as Klein or Greenlee but it should be suitable for most professionals. It features dual layer insulation for your protection. This screwdriver set also have mostly positive reviews online.
This set of screwdrivers is likely manufactured in China but we were not able to confirm that.
Insulated Screwdriver sizes:
One #1 Phillips, one #2 Phillips, one #3 Phillips, one 1/4 in. Slotted, one 5/16 in. Slotted, one Slotted, one SQ1, one SQ2, one SQ3, one ECX #1
| Pros | Cons |
| Well known brand | Not a premium brand |
| Contains a comprehensive set of screwdriver sizes | No pliers or non-screwdriver tools |
| 1,000 volts AC rating | May not last as long |
| Safety features – dual layer insulation | |
| Meets major safety standards |
Best Insulated Screwdriver Sets
We trust our summary of best insulated screwdriver sets help choose the right screwdriver set. Finding the best insulated tools is really important given the dangers of working as an electrician or with electricity.
Most persons seek reputable brands tested for safety, have special features like impact resistant, and and with lifetime warranties of some sort. Insulated tools are a must have for any electrician given the nature of electrical work.
Regarding of the set of insulated screwdrivers you decide to purchase, always check the manufacturer’s quality and reputation carefully given the impact these tools will have. We strongly recommend you purchase the highest quality set versus trying to buy the highest number piece insulated screwdriver sets.
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