14 Tools at Harbor Freight That Are Actually a Good Deal

In the past, Harbor Freight used to have a reputation for having subpar tools, but fortunately, that seems to have changed in recent years. While the company is still focused on more budget options, many pleased shoppers have noticed that their quality control has significantly improved, resulting in some great deals.

Avoid wasting money on overpriced tools from big-name retailers and check out their counterparts at Harbor Freight instead.

Price: $279.99

Having a solid tool cart is essential for your storage setup, and the value on these popular carts is pretty hard to beat. With an average rating of 4.7 stars, you can't go wrong with the nine different color options.

These carts are significantly cheaper than Snap-On's comparable offering, which run well over $1,000.

Price: $9.99

Harbor Freight recently began selling Bremen brand clamps, and they're a great deal for the price point. With 377 reviews and an average star rating of 4.8 out of 5, these are definitely worth picking up.

They're substantially cheaper than the comparable clamp option at Lowe's, which are $33.

Price: $39.99

A large toolkit adds versatility for automotive, office, and household tasks. This 130-piece set is a budget-friendly alternative to Anvil, which costs nearly twice as much.

The Pittsburgh toolkit is among Harbor Freight's most-reviewed items, boasting 9,185 reviews and a 4.4-star average. Customers love its quality and portability.

Price: $159.99

This 6-gallon compact air compressor has received rave reviews for its reliability and whisper-quiet operation. With a 4.7-star average rating, users appreciate its compact footprint.

While a DeWalt 6-gallon air compressor retails for nearly the same price, it has a maximum PSI of only 165, making the Fortress a better value.

Price: $349.99

Getting a precise miter saw for those right-angle cuts is a must-have in your workshop. The 12-inch Hercules saw is a great choice and far cheaper than a similar model from DeWalt, which costs $499.99.

This item has one of the highest ratings you'll see on the Harbor Freight site, with a 4.9 average star rating after over 3,000 reviews.

Price: $19.99

Having a lightweight, cordless drill is a crucial tool for any homeowner. This affordable 12V model from the Warrior line is a no-frills ⅜ drill that will get the job done. Reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with an average star rating of 4.6 out of 5.

This model is less expensive than the equivalent Black + Decker model, which retails for $29.

Price: $39.99

While you may not get a lot of daily use out of a jack, it comes in handy in a pinch when moving heavy machinery. With the ability to lift up to 12 tons, this versatile jack will be your best friend.

A similar jack from Duralast will cost you $65, so you'll save a good amount of money with the Harbor Freight buy.

Price: $369.99

This affordable crane will move any super heavy objects around your shop much more easily. The majority of the hundreds of customer reviews are positive, with many commenting on the superior build quality compared to other cranes.

In contrast, a similar crane from Omega costs $696 so you'll be saving a ton of money by going with the Harbor Freight brand.

Price: $7.97

Work gloves are essential and these high-quality mitts from Hardy do the job well. Reviewers rave about the comfort and durability of this particular pair. Compared to the $21 you'd spend on a similar pair of Milwaukee leather gloves elsewhere, this purchase is a no-brainer.

Price: $17.99

A good pair of pliers always comes in handy in all sorts of situations, especially when dealing with water pipes. Customers praise these pliers for their durability and non-slip grip. They "get the job done at less than half the cost of the premium brand," says one reviewer.

A comparable pair of pliers from Kinplex will cost you over $36.11, making the Harbor Freight buy the far better deal.

Price: $29.99

One of the most versatile tools out there, this dual-head flex ratchet will be your best friend in tricky situations, especially for any automotive repair jobs.

According to one customer, "It has a long reach, swivel head, [and] costs much less than some competitors' swivel head long reach ratchets."

Price: $14.99

This grinder is ideal for all sorts of shaping and metal cutting. It has a powerful 4.3 amp motor so it can cover all of your grinding needs. Buyers appreciate the affordable price and great value.

A comparable grinder from Ryobi costs $54, so there's a big difference in price here without a drop in quality.

Price: $299.99

Keeping your workspace clean is a must, particularly if you're a wood or metalworker. The large 35-gallon capacity dust collector filters particles as small as five microns, to help keep your work area clear of debris.

This tool is nearly $200 less than a similar machine Home Depot sells for $495.

Price: $129.99

A strong and reliable vise is suitable for a variety of projects around your home. The Doyle vice has rave reviews.

"Well made and nicely finished vise… Smooth action and jaw alignment with yesteryear quality at a great deal, especially when on sale with a coupon," raves one purchaser.

This vise is significantly cheaper than a comparable Wilton version from Lowe's, which costs $464.99.

Being a savvy tool shopper is a great way to save money on essentials you'll use regularly. Whether building something or just doing little repairs around the house, having affordable and reliable tools at the ready is critical. 

Harbor Freight has done a lot to raise their quality standards, and it shows, so don't let their previous reputation dissuade you from shopping there.