Updated for 2026 — This article has been reviewed and updated with the latest recommendations.
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An ancient proverb attributes success to a skilled worker. As beautiful and encouraging as that may sound, skill alone is, however, not enough to carry out excellent work. Good tools are necessary. Electricians deal with several electrical jobs from time to time. And this calls for using excellent and appropriate tools to carry out tasks easily and to avoid dangers that accompany this line of work.
This buying guide will look into essential and must-have tools for an electrician in 2020. Additionally, each tool to be examined will be of superior quality since a "good tool" goes beyond functionality and includes durability.
The Ten Best Tools For An Electrician Are Reviewed Below
#1
Dewalt DPG59-115C Reinforcer Rx-Bifocal safety glasses
Check Latest PriceOne of the essential tools for every electrician is a protective pair of glasses. Without the eyes, electrical work would be impossible. It would be like a blind man driving. The Dewalt bi-focal protective eyeglasses the eyes from spark, debris, and the ray of light, which may, over time, affect visibility. It's a two in one product- an eye shield and reading glasses to protect the eyes and also make it possible to read the inscription on products or anything relating to instructions on electrical appliances. Electricians sometimes climb onto an elevated position or platform. They may have to look down to read or work on somethings, to avoid a situation whereby the glasses may fall off due to looking down, the handles of the glasses are similar to that of a handgrip. It's of rubber materials with patterned ripples to make it stay firm on both sides of the face.
For extra stability and comfort, the Dewalt comes with a non-slip nose grip. The grip allows the glasses to stay firm on the face without coming off. The lens is a hard coat and meets the ANSI Z27.1+ standards. What is more, the lens is distortion-free and colorless.
Key Features:
- Rubber handle
- Hard coat lens
- Magnification diopter
Specification:
- Brand: Dewalt
- Model: Safety glasses
- Color: Black/Yellow
- Gender: Unisex
Pros
- Lightweight
- Comfortable
- Anti-scratch
Cons
- Not anti-fog
#2
Klein Tools 33532-INS Electrical Insulated Screwdriver
Check Latest PriceA screwdriver is a necessary tool for every electrician. The functions of the screwdriver exceed loosen and tighten screws. The Klein screwdriver is ideal and one of the best tools for an electrician. It's well-insulated against shock with two thick layers that can reduce the impact of up 1000 volts. One way of ensuring good grip and comfort while an electrician works with a screwdriver is through an excellent handle. The handle of the Klein is electrically insulated and well-cushioned to feel soft and full.
The handle is not magnetic and adequately meets the IEC 60900 and ASTM F1505 standards of an insulated tool. The steel part that runs into a screwdriver is made of high-dielectric inner coating for durability. The Klein screwdriver set includes 1/4-Inch Cabinet-Tip 602-4-INS and Phillips-Tip 603-4-INS. The tips of both screwdrivers are non-magnetic and work precisely.
Key Features:
- Insulated handle
- High-dielectric coating
- Non-magnetic tip
Specification:
- Brand: Klein
- Model: 33532-INS
- Color: Orange Shank, Black, Yellow
Pros
- Sturdy
- Durable
- Comfortable to hold
Cons
- Non-magnetic tip
#3
Fluke 117 Electricians True RMS Multimeter
Check Latest PriceFluke millimeter is no fluke, funny as the name sounds. The functionality is top grade. It's an essential electrician tool which is must-have. It's a voltalert for detecting non-contact voltage. Ghost voltage can be quite common, and false reading may result. However, with the low impedance, the energy can be well detected. The display part has a bright backlight that works in poorly lit conditions.
The battery life is impressive with a 400 hours runtime. Although without backlight, the battery life may run longer than when the black light is in use. It can work in a variety of weather and temperature, from minus ten degrees Celsius to plus fifty degrees Celsius. The measurements of the millimeter are accurate, consistent, and reliable. The warranty covers an extended period of use. And it has an excellent ergonomic design for one-handed use.
Fluke RMS is tested to the limit- against humidity and shock. It's common for tools to drop during use. But the millimeter is durable and well built against drops and also CAT III 600 V safety rated.
Key Features:
- Low Voltage detection
- Resistance and capacitance of 10 A and 40 mπ respectively
- Battery based
Specification:
- Brand- Fluke
- Model- FLUKE-117
- Color- Yellow and Black
Pros
- Easy to use
- Accurate
- Easy to read
Cons
- Quite costly
#4
Stanley Tape Measure
Check Latest PriceThe tape is part of the electrician tool kit list. Every electrician needs a good measuring tape. The Stanley measuring tape is perfect. It can measure as far as 25 feet. The tape blade is coated with bladearmor to ensure durability. Besides, mylar polyester also improves the quality of the tape. The recoil is smooth and doesn't cause injury to the fingers. The markings on the tape are clear, and measurements are accurate even after years of use. Its numbers are easy to read.
The rubber material housing the tape is non-slip and comfortable to hold. Its soft layers are impact resistance, and the innerspring is heat treated to ensure smooth recoil and stretch. Locking and unlocking are easy to switch when the need arises. The case is not solely rubber. There is a combination of soft, durable plastic for easy hold and durability due to moisture.
Overall, the tape can be used both for minor home repairs and major construction site jobs. Both the tape blade and the casing is well made to withstand various conditions and environmental factors.
Key Features:
- Mylar polyester tape blade
- Rubber grip
- Bladearmor coating
Specification:
- Brand- Stanley
- Model: 33-725 measuring tape
- Color: Yellow/ Black
Pros
- Easy to read
- Easy lock switch
- Durable
Cons
- None
#5
Gastorback pro-comfort support belt
Check Latest PriceThe electrician belt is an important part of the electrician tool list. It serves as a bag for all other tools an electrician carries around. The Gastorback belt is buckled around the waist and comes with several pockets to keep screwdrivers, pliers, and a couple of other things. The belt is breathable, allowing good inflow of air and curbs discomfort that may result from heat. It holds well and for long. The material of the belt is made of Dyratek nylon- a heavy-duty 1250 specification.
A common mistake which the manufacturers of this belt improved on, is sagging. Pockets sag when the heavy object within stretches the cloth material used for the pocket. However, this particular belt uses plastic linings in the pocket to prevent sagging. Plus, the shape is a box design that allows easy access to tools. It's firm around the waist and will last for years.
As part of the features of the belt, the memory foam cushioning used gives it a comforting and soft grip around the waist. Furthermore, the pockets have an extra lining to curb wear and tear due to frequent use. In a bid to give the belt further strengthening, leather is introduced in the holes such that ripping won't result. If the belt is not worn around the waist, there are alternative handles with good stitches to prevent tear and facilitate easy carry.
Key Features:
- Metal suspender
- Handles for carrying
- Box pocket design
Specification:
- Brand: Contractor Pro
- Model: Gastorback
- Color: Black
Pros
- Thick and sturdy
- Comfortable and firm
- Breathe able
Cons
- …
#6
Klein Wire Stripper
Check Latest PriceStripping and cutting wires are common in an electrician's line of work. The Klein cutter is a standard wire cutter and stripper that should be on an electrician tools list. It's one of the best tools for an electrician not just because of its importance, but due to its ergonomic design. Klein is a trusted manufacturer of essential electrical tools. The serrated nose build of this cutter makes it easy for bending and pulling wires and also for shaping if the need arises.
For both 10-18 AWG wire types and the 12-20 stranded types, the Klein cutter handles them well. The curve of the handle is well shaped to fit conveniently into the hands and for the spring to unlock for quick and easy opening.
Markings on it are easy to read, and the handle is insulated to prevent shock and to allow for a good grip. It's lightweight and easy to carry about in any compartment of an electrician's belt. As a plus, the metal part and spring are well coated to avoid rust.
Key Features:
- Wire bending holes
- Serrated nose
Specification:
- Brand: Klein
- Model: 11055KLE
- Color: Blue
Pros
- Good grip
- Precise cuts
- Simple to use
Cons
- A bit expensive
#7
Sperry Adjustable Non-Contact
Check Latest Price The voltage sensor is vital to electricians, and when Sperry makes a tool, the quality can be fully trusted. Sperry voltage sensor is life guaranteed as evidence of its durability and superior quality build. Its design is simple- making it easy to hold, put in a pocket or as common, in an electrician's belt.
A voltage sensor isn't a disposable item that is discarded after every use. Similar to most tools of an electrician, the use of the item is continuous. To this end, the outer covering of the sensor is made of the modern ABS plastic, which is highly resistant to impact and environmental elements. The upper surface is of soft grippy leather material, which gives a firm hold while in use.
With audio and visible indicators, the adjustable non-contact sensor can detect between 12 to 1000 v AC. It's entirely insulated to eliminate the chances of injury. Negative readings are avoided with the installation of the patented battery check features. Sherry voltage sensor functions on a AA battery, and it's CAT III 1000V/IV 600V rated. A perfect tool for detecting the hot terminals and the presence of voltage at the circuit breaker.
Key Features:
- None contact sensitivity
- Audio indicator
- ABS covering
Specification:
- Brand: Sperry
- Model: VD6505
- Color: Yellow/ Black
Pros
- Accurate reading and detection
- Lightweight
- Simple to use
Cons
- The non-contact sensitivity may misbehave
#8
Southwire Fishtape
Check Latest PriceWhat will an electrician tool kit list look like without fish tape? The southwire fish tape gives off a non-conductive glow in the dark, making it easy to use in a poorly lit place. The fish tape is useable in a filled and empty conduit of up to two inches. Many a time, there may be no platform available to place a tape after use, and as such, it may drop frequently. To prevent damage, the material of the fish tape is designed to withstand impact.
Pulling and rolling the fish tape is very much easy due to the low resistance in the conduit. It rolls and winds up without bending or turning wrongly. What is more, the tape doest rust, and no matter how much it bends, it won't break. It's foldable up to 90 degrees conveniently. In width and thickness, it's about 45mm while measuring 125 inches in length.
Despite the strength of its case, another added advantage is the durability that ensures the tape is not damaged when exposed to external factors. Also, the case features a design that makes keeping in an electrician belt possible.
Key Features:
- Faster pull
- Double metal leader
- String protective case
Specification:
- Brand: Southwire
- Model: 59896940
- Color: Green and Yellow
Pros
- Flexible tape
- Unbreakable
- Sturdy
Cons
- Quite big
#9
IRWIN VISE-GRIP Long Nose Plier
Check Latest Price A 6-inch long plier is also a basic tool for electricians. The nose of the plier features strong nickel-chromium steel, which resistant to damaging elements and easy to clean. Its steel nose runs up to the handle where a rubber covers it to provide insulation. A useful characteristic of an electrician's plier is the strength and sharpness of the serrated teeth. It must cut sharply and precisely. Irwin is well designed to grip firmly to wire and strong enough to do minimal hitting of nails or tucking things in place. The teeth of the plier are serrated, and the edges are well sharpened such that it won't go blunt in a short time.
The handle is the next brilliant design of the Irwin plier. With the ergonomic and comfortable design, the handle is fantastic. Generally, the design of a plier should be easy to extend and clip onto an object using little strength. The fingers should comfortably control it without hindrance. The plier uses a protouch handle. A protouch handle is grippy and firm to touch. It's insulated to prevent damage and in accordance with the ANSI requirement.
Due to its length and slim design, it can be used in a confined space with relative ease. It cuts wires and strings with no fuss and neatly. Irwin is among the best electrician tool, and it's affordable.
Key Features:
- Sharp grip
- Protouch handle
- Insulated handle
Specification:
- Brand: IRWIN
- Model: 2078216
- Color: Blue / Yellow
Pros
- Comfortable
- Easy to use
- Sturdy design
Cons
- None
#10
Dewalt Insulated Glove
Check Latest PriceGloves are a must-have for electricians. The use of bare hands to handle any type of electrical work is not encouraged; it's not allowed. Additionally, not every glove is suitable for use. Only insulated gloves are ideal for electricians. Safety is key when it comes to electricity. When the bare hands touch electric current, shock and possibly death may result. And in some cases, severe injuries. The Dewalt glove is insulated to prevent electrical shock and designed to be flexible.
Dewalt glove is the right blend of acrylic and nylon. The outer layer is of nylon material and helps to resist moisture. Also, it prevents the glove from soaking water or any form of liquid. Thermal lining in the glove regulates the temperature in any kind of weather. And the palm surface up to the fingers gives a good grip. Slippery boxes can be held firmly without slipping off.
It has good protection against abrasion. It's durable and comfortable to the skin. The pair fits for both hands with fuss. Dewalt makes a couple of excellent electrical tools, and this glove is one best tool for an electrician.
Key Features:
- 70% Nylon
- 30% Acrylic lining
Specification:
- Brand: Dewalt
- Model: DPG737L thermal insulated grip
- Color: Black
Pros
- Comfortable
- Durable
- Excellent grip
Cons
- When used in a cold environment, the cold may sip in.