In my years as a woodworker, brand reputation can play a big role when investing in power tools. So, I’ve taken a close look at two giants in the industry: Kobalt and Craftsman.
Can they both meet high expectations, or will one leave you wanting more? Join me as I delve into a side-by-side comparison of these two renowned tool brands to discern which truly stands out.
Kobalt or Craftsman?
Features of Kobalt and Craftsman
Craftsman, with its longer history, boasts a broader power tool lineup than Kobalt. Beyond that, they’ve branched out into lawn care, outdoor equipment, and mechanics’ tools. And, if you’re ever in doubt, just look for the signature red hue – that’s a Craftsman staple.
The Kobalt brand, as the name suggests, has their products in a nice deep cobalt blue. Kobalt tools is a younger brand than many of the other key players in the power tool industry. Yet, the brand is as competitive as other brands started earlier. In fact, since Lowe’s started carrying their line after incorporation, their kits and power tools have risen in quality.
(Wondering about the best product from Kobalt? Check their 80V chainsaw review)
History and Reputation
Kobalt first came onto the scene in the late 90s, aiming to appeal to the same crowd as Craftsman. Over the years, I’ve noticed their tools often match Craftsman in quality and price. Today, Kobalt stands as Lowe’s in-house brand, solidifying its position in the home improvement sector.
As for Craftsman, their history goes back further to around 1927. They were the house brand of Sears. In 2017, Sears relinquished ownership and sold the Craftsman line to Stanley Black & Decker, a major brand in appliances and tools, which also happens to own DeWalt.
Manufacturing: Kobalt and Craftsman
The quality of a tool often stems from its place of manufacture. So, to get a better grasp on the caliber of Kobalt and Craftsman, I’ve delved into where these tools are crafted. Let’s dive in.
Let’s start with Kobalt, which has a large brand presence in the USA. Most of their mechanics tools are made in Nevada, but their power tools are made overseas particularly in Germany and China.
Craftsman tools are largely manufactured in the USA, especially their hand tools and accessories. In fact, Stanley Black & Decker recently announced the opening of a new manufacturing plant in Texas, furthering efforts to keep the creation of Craftsman tools close to home.
Availability of Products: Kobalt and Craftsman
Although they are direct competitors, Craftsman vs Kobalt both have products in Lowe’s. Like DeWalt and Porter Cable brands, Craftsman product can be found in more than just the retail store. Lowe’s exclusively carries Kobalt, which results in the brand having a limited presence.
Price Points: Kobalt and Craftsman
Due to the fact that they are direct competitors, the price point for Kobalt VS Craftsman is very similar, and doesn’t reflect a brand to be of higher quality.
They are both considered the middle ground between poorly constructed and cheap products and the higher-end premium lines. Both are considered popular brands with a good line of hand tools and accessories.
Warranty and Service
The warranty [1] and service agreement a brand offers speaks volumes about exactly what quality you are getting. The Kobalt brand has the edge in the warranty department as it offers a lifetime warranty on its tool sets.
On the other hand, Craftsman offers lifetime warranties on some of their products as well, but they mostly apply to hand tools.
Depending on when you purchase your Craftsman tools, there could be an overlap between the Sears warranty. This may cause issues since Sears no longer sell Craftsman tools.
Combo Kits
The two brands are well-known for their combo kits. Let’s take a look at the Craftsman kit first. The tool box all the pieces come in is of a sturdy design. The tools are easily accessible and can be well-organized within the box. One thing I really liked about the Craftsman set is the universal joint, which increases the versatility for applications.
Kobalt also has a full line of tools in the Kobalt set with ergonomic design. The tool carrier isn’t of a better quality per se, but it is of a better design with more storage space. Kobalt conveniently incorporates the SAE and the Metric system for ease of use.
Some of the tools you can find in tool sets from both Kobalt and Craftsman brands include standard ratchets, allen keys, and a socket set among others.
Sockets and Ratchet
Let’s take a deeper dive into the components in their tool kits, more specifically, at the socket and ratchet offered by both Kobalt and Craftsman.
Kobalt sockets have a hex design and there are smaller sizes available. Ratchets from Kobalt are cumbersome, and aren’t the best for tight spaces.
Craftsman ratchets are better for smaller spaces but they don’t have as many socket options. One more downside of the Craftsman set – the new tools are not as sturdy as the Kobalt products.
Power Tools
Craftsman is the one brand that dominates the power tools round as it started earlier. While much of the details is based on personal preference, Craftsman items come at affordable price with a huge product range to choose from.
On one hand, Kobalt offers great value for money, too. However, the power tool line is more limited. Nevertheless, the products are still impressive.
More Tool Brand Comparisons:
Products Offered: Kobalt and Craftsman
Both brands offer a wide variety of products from small accessories and handheld tools to outdoor tools and lawn care products. Both brands provide the most bang for your buck as they are mid-range options.
Whatever you need for your workshop, these two brands have the power tools and handheld options to offer.
FAQ
Which is better, Kobalt or Craftsman?
Kobalt is better than Craftsman as it provides strong warranties and design. Craftsman is the better choice for woodworkers looking for accessible tools and replacement parts.
The products are like other brand, available at Lowes stores and licensed retailers. On the other hand, Kobalt is exclusively sold at Lowe’s since it is their house brand.
Is Lowes replacing Kobalt with Craftsman?
Overall Winner: Kobalt
It was a pretty tight result, but as a professional, I will ultimately hand the crown to Kobalt. Yes, Craftsman is more widely available, but Kobalt offers excellent quality, which is most evident in their tool kit line.
Kobalt also offers a better lifetime warranty, because it’s available for most of their products rather than just hand tools.
Robert Johnson is a passionate furniture maker & carpenter, sought after for his knowledge on the craft.
You’ve probably seen his down-to-earth wisdom in USA Today, Bobvila, Family Handyman, and The Spruce, where he has shared commentary and guidance on various woodworking topics.
Robert is the brain behind Sawinery, where he aims to share tips, tricks, and a passion for all things carpentry.
