I love home projects. Here are my favorite DIY tools, and they’re all under $30

Our featured picks

Klein Tools 11-in-1 Screwdriver/Nut Driver Set

Milwaukee Fastback Folding Utility Knife

Read our review

Stanley FatMax Tape Measure

Vaughan Soft-Face Hammer

Irwin Quick-Grip One-Handed Mini Bar Clamp, 4-Pack

Tackling do-it-yourself projects has always been a favorite hobby of mine, even before my time as a carpenter and professional product tester. There’s just something about the process of identifying a problem, figuring out how to solve it and getting to work with my hands that delivers a feeling of satisfaction that’s hard to find anywhere else. That might mean quick home improvement tasks, assembling flat-pack furniture, swapping out an automotive part or experimenting with new products or techniques that could come in handy during future projects.

DIY doesn’t always have to mean big renovation projects or expensive tools. Pretty much anyone, regardless of skill level, can adopt the appropriate mindset with a positive attitude and a few basic items. Plus, if there’s one thing my carpentry and product testing experience have taught me, it’s that useful and high-quality tools don’t have to break the bank. Sure, I’ve used a variety of higher-ticket items like table and circular saws, and recently tested contenders for the best drill, but the majority of products I reach for the most cost less than $30.

That affordability is part of what makes DIY such an accessible and fruitful hobby. You don’t need a professional workshop or huge collection of power tools to start fixing things, assembling furniture or tackling simple home improvement projects. A few thoughtfully chosen tools and accessories can save time, eliminate frustrating extra steps, prevent you from calling a handyman for a task you can handle yourself and just make the whole process that much more enjoyable.

From products I relied on as a professional carpenter to inexpensive tools I now use around my home, these are 20 DIY essentials under $30 that have earned a permanent place in my tool kit.

The best DIY tools under $30

Klein Tools 11-in-1 Screwdriver/Nut Driver Set

Multi-bit screwdrivers are extremely versatile, allowing you to harness the functionality of an entire screwdriver set in the palm of your hand. This Klein Tools model is my favorite by far (this Wiha model is a great option too). In addition to eight bits, it also features three nut driver sizes, which are really useful when you stumble upon an uncommon nut or bolt.

Irwin 7-Inch Vise-Grip Locking Pliers

The value of a pair of vise-grip pliers really can’t be overstated. Unlike regular adjustable pliers that fit around a nut or bolt (for rotational use), these also use spring-loaded jaws to provide gripping power. With a quick twist of the adjustment knob, these pliers clamp down onto any material that fits inside their jaws, without requiring constant squeezing pressure from the user. I recently used this pinching power to grip and yank out a broken key that was lodged inside of my back door deadbolt. I’ve also seen an industrious coworker use one of these as a makeshift door handle on his truck for over a year.

Skil Twist 2.0 Electric Screwdriver

For assembly jobs that don’t require the heavy-duty torque of a power drill, I reach for this 4V Skil electric screwdriver. You can quickly switch from straight to pistol grip depending on the screw position, and the front-mounted controls (along with a nice and grippy rubber handle) make it really convenient to use one-handed. After years of hands-on use and more accidental drops than I’d like to admit, I’ve really come to respect the long-term durability of this robust tool, especially considering that it’s significantly cheaper than higher-end DeWalt or Milwaukee options.

Read our review

Wuben G5 Rechargeable Flashlight

I haven’t had this for very long, but its tiny size and multifunctional design have already come in handy more times than I expected. The 400-lumen output isn’t exactly super bright, but its 2.5-inch length, 180-degree rotating beam and user-friendly brightness scroll wheel make it really convenient to use in short-distance, enclosed spaces. Its magnetic base is probably my favorite feature, which I recently used when swapping out a shoddy crankshaft position sensor on my 1998 Jeep Wrangler. I was able to mount it exactly where I needed it, deep inside the engine bay, and keep both hands free while performing this notoriously awkward task. Plus, the little pocket clip allows you to attach it to your hat and use it as a makeshift headlamp.

Franklin Sensors ProSensor M90 Stud Finder

I’ve been a huge fan of Franklin stud finders for years, and this small M90 version is a fantastic value. It uses nine LEDs to indicate not only the presence of a stud behind drywall, but also the edges of it in real-time as you slide it along. This allows you to confidently screw into the middle of the stud and also help differentiate it from other hidden components that would fool a more rudimentary stud finder. Unlike a lot of other electronic stud finders, this one is extremely easy to use (just press the button and slide it along the wall) and works with both wood and metal studs.

Black Diamond Astro 300 LED Headlamp

Flashlights are great, but for DIY projects that require two hands, a headlamp is always going to be more convenient. I’m a big fan of Black Diamond headlamps for their comfortable fabric bands and overall ease of use, and this Astro 300 model is a great example of both. The single-button control is about as straightforward as it gets — you just press once to turn it on and hold it down to adjust brightness — and the three AAA batteries are included in the box.

Milwaukee Fastback Folding Utility Knife

When it comes to manual cutting power, you’d be hard-pressed to find a better option than a Milwaukee Fastback utility knife. They’re super durable, comfortable to grip and, thanks to the press-and-flip design, just plain fun to use. A quick flick of the wrist deploys the blade when you’re ready to use it, which folds back safely into the handle so you can toss it in your pocket when finished. This model is my favorite overall utility knife, with a metal body (mine has withstood years of abuse with just a few cosmetic knick and scuffs) and internal storage that keeps fresh blades handy at all times.

Read our review

Klein Tools 5-Piece Bit Holder

This handy carabiner-style gadget has four detachable bit holders, so you can keep your most-used options easy to find and access at all times. The quick-connect design makes it easy to quickly swap out new ones when needed, and color-coded collars allow for quick identification, which is especially useful for smaller bits that look fairly similar. It includes a standard #2 Philips bit too, which is a nice perk. There are lots of these types of bit organizers out there, but Klein Tools’ solid reputation and my personal experience with its products have never steered me wrong.

Vaughan Soft-Face Hammer

A soft-face hammer is one of those tools you might not think you need, but quickly becomes one of your most commonly used items. This Vaughan version uses two polymer strike faces (one is slightly softer than the other), allowing you to apply a ton of force to delicate surfaces that would otherwise be dented, scuffed or cracked by a metal hammer face. I used one of these to assemble Ikea furniture so I could tap stubborn pieces into place without damaging them and kept it on my tool belt throughout my time as a residential and commercial carpenter. If you need to use a normal hammer on delicate pieces, you can also just place a scrap of wood between the two before hammering, although a dedicated soft-face version is much more convenient.

ThruNite Archer 2A LED Rechargeable Flashlight

This Thrunite model has been my go-to flashlight for years, and its durability and brightness settings make it well-suited for DIY-related use. The aluminum body has withstood countless drops and falls on concrete floors and cement driveways — with only a few cosmetic nicks and scuffs to show for it — and the ergonomic shape and textured grip make it comfortable to hold and position as you navigate a crawlspace or scoot underneath a leaky sink.

Read our review

Workpro Mini Water Pump Pliers

These adjustable pliers from Workpro are versatile enough to fit a wide range of bolt or nut sizes and their 4.25-inch length means you can stash them pretty much anywhere. Everday carry (EDC) enthusiasts have made the higher-end Knipex versions a staple of their DIY kits, but after a few months with the Workpro, I think they’re a fantastic budget-friendly alternative.

Bahco Ergo Big-Mouth Adjustable Wrench

A rock-solid reliable tool at a reasonable price, this Bahco adjustable wrench won’t disappoint. The beefy, ergonomic design and rubber grip allow you to maintain a nice secure grip while cranking away, and the alloy steel construction means it will probably live longer than you. Despite its heavy-duty capability, this Bahco wrench doesn’t skimp in the accuracy department. The well-built adjustment mechanism smoothly adjusts the jaw size with minimal wiggle, and the tapered jaws are perfect for reaching fasteners in tight or awkward positions.

Mechanix Wear Original Work Gloves

These multipurpose work gloves fit nice and snug and are a practical alternative to the bulky work gloves you might be used to. They still provide adequate protection against splinters, cuts and scrapes, but their secure fit allows you to maintain the dexterity and unrestricted movement necessary for intricate tasks (you can even use them with a touchscreen!). The mesh backs and vented palms also encourages airflow, maximizing comfort even more.

MagnoGrip Magnetic Utility Pouch

I’m a big magnet fan, and this MagnoGrip tool pouch is a great example of why they’re so convenient. Its magnetized front panel lets you store screws, nails and other metal fasteners you need for a project without having to fish them out of a pocket. Or, when disassembling something, you can quickly toss screws onto the magnet as you go and retrieve them when needed for reassembly. You also get a ton of space to store a variety of hand tools, and the belt hook means you can carry it around without needing to strap on a big bulky tool belt. I’ve had mine since 2016 and haven’t noticed any demagnetization issues at all.

DeWalt 90-Degree Drill Adapter

A right-angle drill attachment is one of those tools you’ll only need once in a while, but when that time comes, you’ll be glad you have it. This handy contraption attaches to the front of your power drill or impact driver and uses internal gears to essentially give the drill a sideways chuck, letting you drive screws into spaces your drill wouldn't be able to fit otherwise. There are smaller and flimsier versions, but I like heavy-duty DeWalt models that allow you to slide your palm in and apply extra pressure.

Klein Tools 60470 Safety Glasses

I’ve witnessed too many eye injuries and close calls myself not to include a pair of safety glasses on this list. These Klein glasses have a soft rubber gasket around the frame as well as a removable band, making them both comfortable to wear for long periods of time and secure on your head. This gives them sort of a goggle-like feel without the weight and bulk, and you still get full-coverage protection against dust and potential debris coming in from the sides.

Irwin Quick-Grip One-Handed Mini Bar Clamp, 4-Pack

You can never have too many clamps, and this Irwin set has become one the most useful I’ve ever bought. They’re not large enough for big furniture or cabinetry jobs, but their 6-inch length is perfect for smaller work or cramped spaces. The pistol-grip design and one-handed release are comfortable to use and the rubber pads prevent damage to delicate surfaces.

DeWalt 13-Inch Flat Bar

While full-size crowbars are primarily used for demolition tasks, I’ve found this 13-inch version to be extremely versatile. It’s short enough to grip and manipulate with one hand so you can use it in smaller spaces, and the slim pry area lets it fit between delicate materials without completely destroying them. Most importantly, it’s extremely strong. I started using mine while working at a custom furniture company and used the short end to lift the corners of heavy office furniture or appliances in order to adjust their feet.

Klein Tools Mini Ratchet Set

This Klein Tools ratchet is quickly becoming one of my favorite tools to have on hand. Its compact size is convenient to carry in your pocket and the 90-tooth ratchet head works well in tight spots that don’t offer much space to work. My favorite feature is the removable bit holder that comes with three bits as well as a quarter-inch nut driver adaptor, which lets you utilize a wide variety of attachments. The built-in loop is perfect for one-handed use as well as clipping to your tool belt or bag with a carabiner.

Stanley FatMax Tape Measure

Accurate measurements are crucial for a wide variety of DIY projects and prevent time-consuming and expensive mistakes, like mounting a TV too low or ordering a piece of furniture that doesn't fit your space. The Stanley FatMax is one of the most popular tape measures on the market, as well as a staple in my toolbox (I also keep backups stashed in my car and kitchen drawer). It’s a little bulky, but the rubber exterior maintains a nice secure grip, and the large numerals make it easy to read and log measurements as you go.

Read our review

What to consider when choosing DIY tools

Whether you’re putting together a tool kit from scratch, beefing up your current collection or just looking to save money instead of hiring a professional, it’s important to consider the following factors.

Think about what type and scope of projects you actually like to work on

“DIY” can mean anything from quick little home repairs and hanging artwork to building furniture or complex framing projects, so it’s important to consider what you like working on before pulling the trigger on a tool. Your ideal collection of DIY gear should reflect how you work, not what someone else thinks a toolbox is supposed to contain.

For example, if you’re primarily interested in small repairs like replacing drawer pulls or tightening loose cabinet hinges, you probably don’t need to invest in a full set of power tools right off the bat. Alternatively, if big projects are your passion, I’d make sure to prioritize basic safety items like safety goggles and work gloves.

Prioritize versatility

Even though these tools are relatively affordable, they can still offer a ton of bang for your buck (and conserve valuable storage space) if you choose carefully. Multi-bit screwdrivers, adjustable pliers and accessories that work with the equipment you already own can provide much more value than highly specialized versions. I’m not saying that every tool needs to cover a huge range of functions, but for the average DIYer, a single tool that takes up minimal room is more convenient and practical than an entire set of individual screwdrivers or pliers.

Know when to invest

All of the products in my roundup here cost less than $30, but price shouldn’t be your only consideration when choosing DIY products. I’m fine with saving money on simple accessories and tools where failure would be more annoying than dangerous (I’ve known lots of seasoned pros who don’t mind picking up basics from the budget-friendly Harbor Freight), but I’m much more cautious with things like safety equipment and gear that needs to withstand serious force or repeated heavy use. If a tool or piece of equipment plays a critical role in protecting you or safely completing a job, reliability should always come first. I learned this the hard way when a cheap miter saw sent a blade fragment inches from my head.

FAQs

Why should I adopt a DIY mindset?

Learning to do things yourself can save money on simple household repairs, maintenance, furniture assembly and home improvement projects, but the benefits of DIY go beyond just your wallet. Tackling projects yourself can help you become more self-sufficient, teach you practical skills and give you the confidence to approach unfamiliar or intimidating problems instead of immediately calling someone else for help (you might be surprised at the types of projects you can complete with just a good attitude and an hour of watching YouTube videos).

There is a unique sense of self-satisfaction that comes from fixing something that’s broken, or stepping back to admire something you’ve built yourself. Even if things don’t go according to plan, you’ve at least learned what not to do the next time around.

You don’t need to renovate a bathroom or build a piece of furniture from scratch to benefit from a DIY mindset either. Try starting with small, low-risk tasks like patching a hole in drywall, assembling an Ikea cabinet or just tightening loose drawer pulls around the house. Each project will give you a chance to learn something new, and you’ll gradually build the skills and confidence to tackle more ambitious jobs.

What tools does every DIYer need?

Every DIYer should have a basic collection of tools that can handle common repairs, maintenance tasks and projects around the house. I recommend starting with a multi-bit screwdriver, hammer, tape measure, utility knife, adjustable wrench and pliers, along with a cordless drill and basic set of drill and driver bits. A flashlight or headlamp is also really useful for working in dark cabinets, basements or other poorly lit areas, and essential safety gear like eye protection, hearing protection and work gloves should be readily available. Just don’t wear gloves while working with power saws, as they can become snagged and suck your hand into the blade.

How should I store and organize my DIY tools?

The best tools aren’t any good if you can’t find them. The best way to store and organize your DIY tools depends on how many you have and where you typically use them, but the most important thing is to keep your most frequently used items easy to find and access.

A portable tool bag or tool box is a good option for a smaller collection that you want to keep mobile, while wall-mounted pegboards and drawer-style tool chests are better for larger setups in a garage or workshop. I also recommend grouping similar tools and accessories together, keeping small items like drill bits and fasteners in labeled organizers (don’t just toss everything loose into a bag or drawer) and always return everything where you found it when your project is finished.

Is it better to buy tools individually or in a tool kit?

A premade tool kit can be a convenient and cost-effective way for a new DIYer to access a basic collection right away, as long as it includes the basics like a hammer, screwdrivers, pliers, tape measure, utility knife and adjustable wrench. Buying tools individually gives you more control over the quality and features of each item, though, and makes more sense if you already own some basics or have specific needs or preferences. I generally recommend purchasing a well-rounded tool kit for beginners, then adding or upgrading individual tools as your needs become more specific.

Why trust CNN Underscored

CNN Underscored editors and writers ensure every product included in an article is thoroughly vetted and something we ourselves would feel comfortable buying and using. Our team has many decades of collective experience researching, testing and recommending products across every category — from fashion and food, to home goods and health, to electronics and everything in between — and we’re committed to using that expertise to help you make the most of your money and live a better life.

For this article, CNN Underscored testing writer Alex Rennie called upon his own experience using tools as a residential and commercial carpenter in New York City as well as general know-how from years of projects and tasks around various apartments and townhouses. He has personally used every model listed above either personally or professionally and confidently vouches for their value and reliability. Rennie has also written similar best-tested guides on power drills, tape measures, utility knives and solar generators.

Some information for this report was gathered via edition.cnn.com.