The Best Pliers for Every Job

Every tool collection needs a few pairs of pliers, whether for simple household repairs or professional use. These tools provide extra gripping power for all sorts of tight-fitting and difficult-to-handle components. Since pliers come in so many variations, it’s important to know which types and sizes are best for different situations. For this guide, we tested 10 different pliers and plier sets covering the full range of options. Through a series of test projects, we evaluated each one for tool quality, gripping power, user comfort, and overall value. Whether you are a hobbyist, homeowner, or trades professional, one of these tools or tool sets could be just what you’ve been looking for.

The Irwin Vise-Grip GrooveLock 8-Piece Pliers Set was our top pick because the tools are of pro quality, and the kit comes with all the basic pliers types. If you’re just starting to build a tool collection and need one of everything, this kit might be all you’ll ever need. For those who need an upgrade or replacement tool, other options from the list might be better. 

Whether it’s tightening metal pipes, wiring an outlet, or trying to keep a grip on a tiny fastener, there’s a pair of pliers that’s best suited for the job. This guide is designed to showcase the strengths and weaknesses of each type, as well as highlight the qualities to look for while tool shopping. Ahead, learn how each pick performed in our tests and why we crowned them the best pliers to complete a well-stocked tool box.

1. BEST OVERALL: Irwin Vise-Grip GrooveLock 8-Piece Pliers Set
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2. BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: WorkPro 7-Piece Pliers Set
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3. BEST SLIP-JOINT: Channellock 526 6-Inch Slip-Joint Pliers
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4. BEST FOR TIGHT SPACES: Knipex Snipe Nose/Stork Beak Side-Cutting Pliers
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5. BEST FOR PLUMBING WORK: Knipex 10-Inch Cobra Water Pump Pliers
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6. BEST FOR ELECTRICAL: Klein Tools New England Nose 9-Inch Lineman’s Pliers
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7. BEST FOR CUTTING: Irwin Vise-Grip 8-Inch Diagonal Cutting Pliers
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8. BEST LOCKING: Irwin Vise-Grip Original 10-Inch Locking Pliers
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Pliers Comparison

Our Top Picks

Certain types of pliers can work wonders for some jobs but fail miserably at others. We tested each of the following pliers and plier sets by using them to grip and twist pipes, bend sheet metal, cut wires, and pull nails. Ahead, we discuss testing performances and why each of these tools could be the right one for your needs.

Our Ratings

We prefer one-stop shopping, and this kit offers just that. This single set, which comes packed in a handy canvas tool roll, includes all the pliers most DIYers will ever need: diagonal cutters, slip joints, long-nose, lineman’s, three different groove locks, and even a 10-inch adjustable wrench. These tools are forged from tough, corrosion-resistant chrome vanadium steel, so they’ll last a lifetime given average use and care, and they come with cushioned grips for added comfort. 

Not surprisingly, as a multi-tool kit, these pliers performed well on all of our tests, from gripping fasteners to pulling nails. They felt good in-hand, the pivots moved smoothly, and the sizes were ideal. The diagonal cutters, long-nose, and lineman’s were all adept at cutting electrical wires, fence wire, and even thin finish nails. The assortment of groove locks allowed us to grip pipes from less than ½ inch to more than 2½ inches in diameter. We especially liked the extra-wide curve in the handles of the 6-inch tools. Combined with the thick cushioned grips, it made them easier to operate and more comfortable when applying pressure.

We named this kit the best overall because of the quality, wide-ranging functionality, user comfort, and value. It was generally a pleasure to work with, but it’s not perfect. We think a thinner profile on the needle-nose pliers would improve reach and maneuverability while still providing the necessary grip strength. For extended use, we prefer the leverage of a longer diagonal cutter.

What our tester says: “Every one of the tools in this set makes its own case for inclusion in this guide. Taken together, they are a buy-it-for-life bargain.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Irwin Vise-Grip GrooveLock pliers set at Amazon, Acme Tools, or MSC.

Our Ratings

No need to break the budget on premium tools for minor home repairs. This budget-friendly 7-piece pliers set from WorkPro includes well-made diagonal cutters as well as various types of pliers: lineman’s pliers, groove-joint, slip-joints, and long-nose. These compact hand tools fit better into smaller hands and offer good gripping power for home projects.

Although they lack some of the refined features and design elements of more expensive tools, the WorkPro pliers passed all of our tests. The slip joints and groove joints adjusted smoothly without binding, and they gripped firmly without slipping. The diagonal cutters, along with the side cutters on the long-nose and lineman’s pliers, had no trouble snipping 3 strands of 12-gauge wire or heavy-duty cable staples.

For the price, this kit is an easy buy, but there are some things to consider first. These pliers are designed to grip small objects and are suited to light- to medium-duty work. The compact size reduces both the jaw width and leverage for gripping. The groove lock pliers in particular had a significantly smaller capacity than those in our best overall kit and our best tongue-and-groove pliers. For occasional small repairs and DIY projects, this kit will be great, but for frequent use on bigger projects, we recommend going bigger.

Get the WorkPro pliers set at Amazon, Walmart, or WorkPro.

Our Ratings

This set of slip-joint pliers from Channellock is useful for almost any gripping task around the house, and their small size makes them easy to stow away in a drawer. The 6-inch slip-joint pliers use the company’s patented PermaLock fasteners, which replace the nut and bolt that hold most low-end pliers together. The result is a tight set of slip-joint pliers with a reliable and predictable action that reduces failures, injuries, and the stripping of nuts and bolts. 

We noted less play in the joint than in similar models we tested. This meant the jaws aligned perfectly every time, and the joint held more securely than the other slip joints. We especially liked the firm holding power within the jaws, which is thanks to the serrated edge biting into metal or plastic to provide added grip.

The nonslip vinyl grips make these pliers easy to hold on to and comfortable enough for prolonged use. The included shear-type cutter makes these tools perfect for trimming wire—something most other slip-joints don’t offer. But, like other slip-joint pliers, these are limited to simple tasks based on their design.

What our tester says: “The Channellock slip-joint pliers aren’t flashy; they just work properly. I liked the smooth, easy movement of the adjustable joint—it worked one-handed with very little effort—and the jaws gripped both flat- and round-sided objects equally well.”—Mark Wolfe, Product Reviews tester and writer

Get the Channellock pliers at Amazon, Acme Tools, MSC, or Channellock.

Our Ratings

When precision counts, a good set of needle-nose pliers is the best tool for the job. They can access hard-to-reach spots, grip tiny parts, bend and cut thin wires, and more. These 8-inch long-nose pliers from Knipex are a high-quality choice for both DIYers and pros. They are forged from chrome-vanadium steel with the company’s oil-hardened finish for longevity. 

In our tests, the side cutters snipped wires cleanly, including 14-gauge NM cable, while the half-rounded jaws made bending wire ends into perfect hooks an easy task. Although the jaws were narrower than those of other long-nose pliers in the test group, they showed excellent strength and resistance to deformation when we applied a strong twisting force at the tips. 

With all those features, these pliers are an excellent tool for wiring projects and low-clearance situations. However, understand that they don’t offer the gripping strength of a standard set of pliers.

Get the Knipex Snipe Nose pliers at Amazon, The Home Depot, or Northern Tool + Equipment.

Our Ratings

When you need to grip pipes, nuts, and bolts, or irregularly shaped objects, it’s hard to beat a set of groove-joint (also known as water-pump) pliers. This Knipex 10-inch pair is not only a great all-purpose size, but it’s also of top-notch quality. These pliers are at the top of the line when it comes to material, grip, and convenience. 

Most groove-joint pliers need to open completely in order for the jaw adjustment mechanism to work. Knipex’s pliers, on the other hand, use a push-button adjustment system. It allowed us to adjust the grip while the pliers were on the workpiece without opening the jaws. This feature lets users adjust more quickly, and it’s particularly helpful for working in tight spaces. The unique jaw shape gripped all sorts of things and held fast with minimal pressure.

These forged chrome-vanadium and oil-hardened pliers are incredibly durable. The jaws will provide a solid grip against both the hardest and smoothest materials. They switch easily from nuts and bolts to pipes thanks to the push-button adjustment. Just be aware that these plumbing pliers create a lot of leverage and might mar a workpiece if used carelessly.

Get the Knipex Cobra pliers at Amazon, The Home Depot, Northern Tool + Equipment, or JB Tools.

Our Ratings

For DIYers in the middle of a renovation or those who do their fair share of electrical work, these lineman’s electrician pliers from Klein Tools are the definition of dependable. They also have some great features, including a hot-riveted joint for smooth opening and closing, knurled jaws for gripping wires and fasteners, and induction-hardened cutting knives for nipping off thick cables with ease, and scoring and stripping wire coating. 

Klein designed these tools to increase leverage by moving the riveted joint closer to the cutting teeth. We noted that it was noticeably easier to cut NM cable with this tool compared to the other lineman’s pliers we tested. On a related note, one of the best features is the shock-absorbing handle. The shape, cushioning, and temper of the handle minimized the transfer of the jarring “snap” with repetitive cuts. 

Designed with professional electricians in mind, these pliers will hold up to many years of use and occasional abuse. Just understand that, as a heavy-duty set of pro-grade pliers, they are a little heavy at around 1 pound.

Get the Klein Tools pliers at Amazon, Lowe’s, The Home Depot, or Northern Tool+Equipment.

Our Ratings

Diagonal cutters are very purpose-specific: their only job is to cut things. And when a tool has only one job, it had better do it well. The Irwin Vise-Grip Diagonal Cutters can make quick work of long wires, cables, cable ties, and electrical staples. Their nickel-chromium steel construction makes them tough and durable, while the cutting edges are induction hardened. 

We used these cutting pliers to snip 3d finish nails in order to test their cutting power and toughness. The long handles provided good leverage for making the cuts, and the blades were still in perfect shape—not chipped or otherwise damaged—after cutting 10 nails. 

With the hardened cutting edges, they’ll stay sharp for plenty of typical DIY projects. And for extremely tough materials, the over-molded and rubberized grips are nonslip and comfortable, reducing muscle and joint fatigue. Keep in mind, though, that these pliers aren’t for gripping fasteners like nuts and bolts, as they have very little surface area for gripping.

Get the Irwin Vise-Grip Diagonal Cutting pliers at Amazon, Acme Tools, or JB Tools.

Our Ratings

A favorite of trade professionals and DIYers alike, Vise-Grip locking pliers combine the convenient portability of pliers with the holding power of a vise. A turn screw in the base of the handle adjusts the jaw width, and a trigger mechanism releases the lock. This model features a straight jaw for the best grip on flat-sided objects, from sheet metal to hex bolts and much more. 

To test its gripping strength, we clamped the Vise-Grips onto a seized ½-inch bolt on a discarded lawnmower frame and attempted to remove it. The locking pliers held, as did the socket wrench, and we ended up tearing the head off the bolt. When we released the lock, the bolt head fell out of the jaw with only a few ridges dug into the metal. It had held perfectly under the pressure. 

This tool comes in numerous configurations in addition to the straight jaw we tested. For round or curved objects, a curved-jaw Vise Grip would be a better choice.

Get the Irwin Vise-Grip Original Locking pliers at Amazon, Lowe’s, or Acme Tools.

Jump To Our Top Picks

How We Tested the Best Pliers 

In our quest to identify the best pliers for home repairs, hobbies, and DIY projects, we vetted more than 50 tools and tool sets. We wanted to showcase the most versatile types of pliers in the most popular sizes while keeping our focus on quality. Ultimately, we chose eight standout pliers for testing. To test them, we spent a full day working on a pile of pipes, wires, scrap metal, and spare parts. After using each tool for 30 minutes to grip, bend, twist, cut, and shape, we recorded our observations and scored points in various categories using a scoring rubric, which we then used to determine our category winners. 

What to Consider When Choosing Pliers

It’s important to know a few things about pliers before tossing a pair into your shopping cart. Keep the following considerations in mind when comparing models in order to make the right choice for the job.

Types of Pliers

There are several types of pliers, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Most tool kits can benefit from at least one pair of each.

Slip-Joint Pliers

The slip-joint is the most common type of pliers. It features a sliding fulcrum that allows the user to adjust the tool’s jaw size and width. Usually, these pliers have two sets of teeth: one in the shape of an arc for gripping round objects, and another arranged on a flat surface for pinching. 

Slip-joint pliers are fine for low-torque applications, such as removing a nut from furniture hardware or twisting a valve shut. However, they’re likely to strip a nut or bolt if the fastener is stubborn.

Needle-Nose Pliers

When it comes to reaching into tight spaces or gripping small objects, needle-nose pliers reign supreme. These pliers have long, thin noses that can reach into small spaces like computer towers, electrical terminals, or plumbing valve bodies. They can then grab small pieces or wires that would otherwise be inaccessible.

Needle-nose pliers are excellent for assembling small objects or electronics, as well as general electrical work. Their ability to grip tiny objects while allowing the user to see what they’re doing (rather than blocking the view with their hands) makes otherwise-difficult work much easier.

Tongue-and-Groove Pliers

Tongue-and-groove pliers are favorites among mechanics, maintenance technicians, plumbers, and HVAC techs. These pliers have several grooves that adjust the width of the jaws, allowing one set of pliers to grip a variety of fasteners and pipes. Also, their jaw-forward design and long handles allow the user to apply a lot of pressure on the fastener, pipe, or other objects.

Tongue-and-groove pliers are also known as “water-pump pliers” or “channel locks.” Channellock is a brand name, and it’s this kind of plier that has made the Channellock brand so popular. 

Locking Pliers

As the name suggests, locking pliers have mechanisms that snap and lock onto an object. Often, these pliers have knobs on their handles that the user can turn to adjust the jaw width. Once the pliers are set properly, the user can squeeze the jaws onto a fastener, pipe, or other objects. The mechanism in the handle then locks, holding the jaws closed until the user removes them.

The best locking pliers are useful for a variety of projects, from plumbing to vehicle/bicycle repair. They’re also commonly referred to as vise grips, though “Vise-Grip” is a brand name.

Lineman’s Pliers

Lineman’s pliers are the electrician’s pliers of choice. These pliers feature heavy-duty jaws with cutting edges and serrated teeth. Some models even include wire strippers. The cutting edges allow the user to cut wire to length while also allowing them to remove a wire jacket with a developed technique.

Also, electricians often use their lineman’s pliers as makeshift hammers. They can use them to punch through knockout on electrical boxes, drive staples, and perform other tasks. 

Cutting Pliers

Rather than gripping the way most pliers do, cutting pliers have one primary job: to cut things apart. These pliers feature short cutting edges and long handles for applying force. Many have diagonal blades (known as diagonal cutters), while others might have cutting edges on their ends (end-cutting pliers).

These tools are excellent for cutting wire, nipping the ends off nails, opening strapped packages, and other practical cutting needs.

Size

Many pliers, depending on the type, come in different sizes. Smaller sizes are excellent for storing in a back pocket or tool box, while other, larger pliers might be necessary for obtaining enough leverage to get the job done.

Generally speaking, pliers in the 8- to 12-inch range are the most useful. Smaller pliers (under 8 inches) are good for delicate work, but they lack the grip and jaw capacity required for heavy-duty projects. Large pliers are great for heavy-duty work, but they can easily damage light-duty materials. Whenever possible, a tool box should contain sets of pliers in each size.

Adjustable vs. Nonadjustable

Different job requirements call for different pliers; sometimes adjustable pliers are preferable, other times, nonadjustable. Adjustable pliers allow the user to tailor the jaw size to the task at hand, which is good for gripping and turning objects. For instance, some pliers might be able to adjust up to 3 or 4 inches, allowing them to grip small objects as well as large pipes.

However, when it comes to cutting, adjustability is not a benefit. In these cases, it’s necessary to get something that will work for years and years, with tighter tolerances and less sloppiness than those required for adjustable pliers. 

Head and Handle Material

The best pliers come in just a few materials. While “tool steel” is generally acceptable, today’s best pliers have more to offer than a rust-prone metal that will become hard to use. The most popular metal options today are alloys, which are combinations of metals. Vanadium, chromium, and nickel-chrome steel are tough, strong, and rust-resistant, and they’re typically the most common.

Handles are equally as important. Many pliers feature coated handles for grip as well as fatigue reduction. These grips are typically rubber, vinyl, polyurethane, or a combination of materials. They offer grip and shock absorption, making them ideal for heavy-duty work.

Comfort and Ease of Use

The job at hand will determine which models are the most comfortable and easiest to use. Tongue-and-groove or pump pliers are almost always the most comfortable to use for turning pipes or fasteners. And with several jaw adjustments available from one set of pliers, the user needn’t carry a large set of wrenches or several sets of pliers. 

However, keep in mind that specialty pliers are designed for certain tasks. When it comes to cutting wires, lineman’s pliers tend to have the leverage necessary to accomplish the job with comfort and ease. When reaching into tight places, needle-nose pliers will almost always work best. For that reason, it’s best to have several types of pliers at the ready.

Versatility

Specialty pliers are great, but many pliers provide the value of versatility. For instance, pump pliers excel at just about everything (other than dealing with small parts). Likewise, a pair of lineman’s pliers can cut, twist, and hammer, making them more versatile than a pair of needle-nose pliers. Conversely, cutting pliers might be great at slicing things apart, but they’re near useless for gripping fasteners.

For general use, pump pliers are the most versatile. However, if they’re for specific purposes, it’s best to get the tool designed for that job.

FAQs

That might seem like a lot of information on the best pliers, but don’t let your head spin around like a fastener on a bolt. We put together the following list of the most common questions about pliers, so be sure to check for an answer to your question listed below.

Q: What are pliers used for?

Pliers serve a variety of purposes, such as assembling and disassembling pipes, securing and loosening fasteners, grabbing small items, and more.

Q: Can you cut with pliers?

Many pliers come with built-in cutters to slice through wire, thin metal, and other small objects.

Q: What is the difference between a wrench and pliers?

A wrench is designed to fit a fastener, and the user is unable to squeeze the jaws at will. A pair of pliers benefits from squeezing the handles to increase their strength, and they’re suitable for a variety of jobs.

Q: What are the most commonly used pliers?

The most commonly used pliers are slip-joints; however, water-pump or tongue-and-groove pliers are often the most useful.

Q: How are plier sizes measured?

Plier sizes are measured from the handle to the jaws, and they’re not overly accurate. For example, a 6-inch set of pliers could actually measure 6½ inches.

Q: How should I maintain pliers?

Maintaining pliers is easy. First, be sure to clean the serrations or teeth when they become gunked up. Then, a quick spray of lubricant at the pivot point will keep them working smoothly. 

Meet the Tester

Mark Wolfe is a writer, product tester, and avid DIYer. When he isn’t writing, he spends his time upgrading, repairing, and replacing anything and everything in his home, yard, and garden. He tests and writes reviews about tools, lawn care, and home repair products, and outdoor living goods.

Additional research provided by Tom Scalisi.

 

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