Socket Size Chart (Metric and Standard)
Sockets come in various sizes and types, which can be confusing if you’re not familiar with them. The size of a socket refers to the diameter of its opening, which fits over the nut or bolt head.
The right size socket is crucial for removing or tightening nuts or bolts safely and effectively.
Let’s explore the different socket sizes, types, and shallow vs. deep sockets to give you a better understanding of each.
In this article, we’ll discuss the most common drive sizes, types of sockets, and shallow vs. deep sockets.
We’ll also provide a socket size chart that includes both metric and standard measurements to make your job easier.
This article covers:
Most Common Drive Sizes
Drive size refers to the square hole used for attaching the socket to a turning tool like a wrench or ratchet. Different jobs require different drive sizes.
Here are the most common drive sizes and their corresponding applications:
1/2″ Drives
1/2″ drives are the most common drive size for heavy-duty jobs that require more torque or force. These drives are typically used for 19mm socket sizes.
For example, if you’re driving lag bolts into walls for mounting an LED TV, a 1/2″ drive is the best choice.
3/8″ Drives
3/8″ drives are the most versatile drive size and can cover sockets and areas for various jobs. They are commonly used at home and in workshops.
1/4″ Drives
1/4″ drives are suitable for low torque jobs and small sockets with a maximum size of 14mm. They are ideal for precision or interior jobs that require a lighter touch.
Types of Sockets
Different socket types are suitable for different jobs. Let’s take a closer look at two common socket types.
Impact Sockets
Impact sockets are designed to fit pneumatic or electric wrenches and other high-torque tools.
They are more robust and sturdier than regular sockets, making them ideal for heavy-duty jobs.
If you’re working with a tool that requires higher torque, impact sockets are the best choice.
Point Sockets
Point sockets come in two varieties: 6-point sockets and 12-point sockets. The 12-point socket is easy to fit and use, as it can be slipped over the tool in any of the available 12 positions.
This socket is suitable for light household tasks. The 6-point socket, on the other hand, is used for heavy-duty jobs that require the application of heavy or substantial torque.
These sockets are less likely to slip or move and are considered more durable and sturdier than the inner walls.
Shallow vs. Deep Sockets
Shallow sockets, also known as normal sockets, may not touch the nut before the bolt hits the end of the socket, making the job harder or impossible to do.
In such cases, mechanics use deep sockets that are typically one inch in length. Deep sockets are ideal for use in inaccessible places when paired with a driver that has an extension.
Socket Size Chart (Metric and Standard)
When it comes to choosing the right socket size for a job, it’s important to know the different standards used in different regions.
In the United States, the standard socket sizes are measured in inches, while in most other countries, socket sizes are measured in millimeters.
Metric Socket Size Chart
Metric socket sizes are measured in millimeters (mm) and are commonly used in most parts of the world. The following is a metric socket size chart:
| 1/4″ Drive | 3/8″ Drive | 1/2″ Drive | 3/4″ Drive | 1″ Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4mm | 5.5mm | 8mm | 19mm | 36mm |
| 4.5mm | 6mm | 9mm | 20mm | 38mm |
| 5mm | 7mm | 10mm | 21mm | 41mm |
| 5.5mm | 8mm | 11mm | 22mm | 46mm |
| 6mm | 9mm | 12mm | 23mm | 50mm |
| 7mm | 10mm | 13mm | 24mm | 54mm |
| 8mm | 11mm | 14mm | 25mm | 55mm |
| 9mm | 12mm | 15mm | 26mm | 58mm |
| 10mm | 13mm | 16mm | 27mm | 60mm |
| 11mm | 14mm | 17mm | 28mm | 63mm |
| 12mm | 15mm | 18mm | 29mm | 65mm |
| 13mm | 16mm | 19mm | 30mm | 67mm |
| 14mm | 17mm | 20mm | 31mm | 70mm |
| 15mm | 18mm | 21mm | 32mm | 71mm |
| 19mm | 22mm | 33mm | 75mm | |
| 20mm | 23mm | 34mm | 77mm | |
| 21mm | 24mm | 35mm | 80mm | |
| 22mm | 25mm | 36mm | ||
| 26mm | 38mm | |||
| 27mm | 40mm | |||
| 28mm | 41mm | |||
| 30mm | 42mm |
Standard Socket Size Chart
In the United States, standard socket sizes are measured in inches (in) and are commonly used. The following is a standard socket size chart:
| 1/4″ Drive | 3/8″ Drive | 1/2″ Drive | 3/4″ Drive | 1″ Drive |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5/32″ | 1/4″ | 3/8″ | 7/8″ | 1-5/8″ |
| 3/16″ | 5/16″ | 7/16″ | 15/16″ | 1-11/16″ |
| 7/32″ | 3/8″ | 1/2″ | 1″ | 1-3/4″ |
| 1/4″ | 7/16″ | 9/16″ | 1-1/16″ | 1-13/16″ |
| 9/32″ | 1/2″ | 19/32″ | 1-1/8″ | 1-7/8″ |
| 5/16″ | 9/16″ | 5/8″ | 1-3/16″ | 2″ |
| 11/32″ | 5/8″ | 21/32″ | 1-1/4″ | 2-1/8″ |
| 3/8″ | 11/16″ | 11/16″ | 1-5/16″ | 2-3/16″ |
| 7/16″ | 3/4″ | 3/4″ | 1-3/8″ | 2-1/4″ |
| 1/2″ | 13/16″ | 25/32″ | 1-7/16″ | 2-3/8″ |
| 9/16″ | 7/8″ | 13/16″ | 1-1/2″ | 2-1/2″ |
| 15/16″ | 7/8″ | 1-5/8″ | 2-5/8″ | |
| 1″ | 15/16″ | 1-11/16″ | 2-3/4″ | |
| 1″ | 1-3/4″ | 2-15/16″ | ||
| 1-1/16″ | 1-13/16″ | 3″ | ||
| 1-1/8″ | 1-7/8″ | 3-1/8″ | ||
| 1-3/16″ | 2″ | |||
| 1-1/4″ | 2-1/8″ | |||
| 1-1/2″ | 2-3/16″ | |||
| 2-1/4″ |
SAE to Metric Conversion Chart
In mechanical work, it’s common to come across situations where you have a wrench in metric units but the nut or bolt you need to work on is in Imperial units or vice versa.
This can create confusion and make it difficult to determine whether the wrench will fit the nut or not. In such cases, having a clear understanding of how to convert between SAE and metric units is essential.
The SAE to metric conversion chart provides a handy reference for converting dimensions accurately and quickly, making it easier to choose the right tools for the job.
| SAE Sizes | Metric Sizes | Similar Socket Sizes |
|---|---|---|
| 5/32” | 5/32” and 4mm are almost the same | |
| 4mm | 5/32” and 4mm are almost the same | |
| 4.5mm | ||
| 3/16” | ||
| 5mm | ||
| 5.5mm | ||
| 7/32” | ||
| 6mm | ||
| 1/4” | ||
| 6.5mm | ||
| 7mm | ||
| 9/32” | ||
| 5/16” | 5/16” and 8mm are almost the same | |
| 8mm | 5/16” and 8mm are almost the same | |
| 11/32” | ||
| 9mm | ||
| 3/8” | ||
| 10mm | ||
| 13/32” | ||
| 11mm | 7/16” and 11mm are almost the same | |
| 7/16” | 7/16” and 11mm are almost the same | |
| 15/32” | 15/32” and 12mm are almost the same | |
| 12mm | 15/32” and 12mm are almost the same | |
| 1/2” | ||
| 13mm | ||
| 17/32” | ||
| 14mm | ||
| 9/16” | ||
| 15mm | 19/32” and 15mm are almost the same | |
| 19/32” | 19/32” and 15mm are almost the same | |
| 5/8” | ||
| 16mm | ||
| 21/32” | ||
| 17mm | ||
| 11/16” | ||
| 18mm | ||
| 23/32” | ||
| 19mm | 3/4” and 19mm are almost the same | |
| 3/4” | 3/4” and 19mm are almost the same | |
| 20mm | ||
| 13/16” | ||
| 21mm | ||
| 27/32” | ||
| 22mm | ||
| 7/8” | ||
| 23mm | 29/32” and 23mm are almost the same | |
| 29/32” and 23mm are almost the same | ||
| 29/32” | ||
| 15/16” | ||
| 24mm | ||
| 1” |
Conclusion
Choosing the right socket size is crucial for any mechanical job. Whether you are working on a car, motorcycle, or any other equipment, using the wrong socket size can damage the nut or bolt, and ultimately lead to bigger problems.
Therefore, it’s important to have a good understanding of the different socket size standards and types available, including metric and standard sizes, deep and shallow sockets, and impact and point sockets.
When selecting a socket, always make sure to choose the correct size for the job, and ensure that it is compatible with the tool being used. This will not only make the job easier and more efficient but also prevent costly mistakes.
In conclusion, by using the socket size chart and understanding the different types of sockets available, mechanics and DIY enthusiasts can select the appropriate socket size for their job and avoid any potential mishaps.
What is the difference between metric and standard sockets?
Metric sockets are measured in millimeters, while standard sockets are measured in inches.
Can you use a standard socket on a metric bolt?
You can use a standard socket on a metric bolt, but it is not recommended as the sizes are not a perfect match, which can lead to stripped bolts or nuts.
What are the benefits of using a deep socket?
A deep socket allows you to reach bolts in inaccessible places and is ideal for use with a driver that has an extension.
How do I know which socket size to use?
You can determine which socket size to use by measuring the nut or bolt, or by consulting a socket size chart.
Can I use an impact socket on a regular wrench?
Yes, you can use an impact socket on a regular wrench, but it is not recommended as the socket may not fit snugly and can result in damage to the tool or injury to the user.
