I have been buying and using modular tool boxes, organizers, and other such storage products for years.
I have also tested every major professional system available.
In my opinion, these are the top 5 to pay attention to. There are others that have some merit, but they don’t stand on even ground with these leading and potentially leading systems.
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#1 Milwaukee Packout
Milwaukee Packout is leading the industry, and they’re not showing any signs of slowing down.
Packout is constantly a step ahead of the competition, on average, and I doubt this will change anytime soon; no other brand comes close.
In my opinion, the cost is the biggest – and often only – downside.
I have niggles about some little things, such as the space efficiency of certain Packout tool boxes, but that’s about it.
I’m not much of a fan of the wall system – yet – but I think this will change once Milwaukee launches an externally-mounted accessory system. Hopefully those eventual accessories can also be used with the wall plates.
The biggest mistake that Milwaukee’s competitors make is in seeing Packout as a system. Yes, it’s a system, but a system of discrete solutions.
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Of all of the tool storage brands, Milwaukee offers me the most solutions suited to my specific needs, wants, and user demands.
The drawers are great, the 4-wheel dolly with foot brake is the best I’ve used, the work tops are practical, the tool boxes are decent, the organizers are okay but I bought a whole lot at great pricing, the crates are good but I wish they were less expensive, and the tool totes are useful even outside of Packout connectivity (although I’ve started using some as top-of-stack catch-alls).
You can take a Packout tool bag, add an organizer to the bottom, and bring just what you need to an installation or maintenance task.
Or put drawers on a 4-wheel dolly to create a workshop-friendly roll-around tool box tower.
There are Packout accessory cases as well. Mechanics tool sets. Socket sets. It’s getting harder and harder to avoid Packout-integrated tools or accessories.
Tool users keep asking for more, and Milwaukee seems intent to deliver.
#2 Dewalt ToughSystem
I bought original Dewalt ToughSystem tool boxes, and gradually replaced them with other solutions.
But, I’ve now gravitated back to the updated ToughSystem 2.0 system to complement my storage and organizational setup.
I prefer certain Dewalt components better than the Milwakee equivalents, such as the compact tool box, and found myself using small groupings of ToughSystem tool boxes and accessories.
In my opinion, Dewalt has the most flexible and functional options after Milwaukee – for now.
The Dewalt workshop storage system has the potential to be huge, especially when users realize they can mount the storage rails to any vertical surface – including the sides of tool boxes.
Dewalt doesn’t have many external accessory solutions designed for mobile tool box setups, yet.
#3 ToughBuilt StackTech
ToughBuilt’s first wave of StackTech tool boxes and organizers are very good, and I’m told that the second wave has started shipping out to select stores.
When talking to some industry insiders recently, the same question kept coming up. ToughBuilt announced the new system with a bunch of computer renders depicting an ambitious first year product roadmap. So the question that comes up now is “can they do it?”
Well, they are doing it. ToughBuilt’s first wave launched just a few months ago, and the second wave is upon us.
In my opinion, ToughBuilt is already leaving most competing brands in the dust.
StackTech’s system offers unique solutions.
Unlike a couple of other brands that entered the market in the past 2 years, ToughBuilt’s system looks inspired but not derivative. Some brands say “let’s copy that.” Judging from what’s both out already and coming soon, I would bet that ToughBuilt’s decision makers instead said “how can we do this better?”
#4 Ridgid Pro Gear 2.0
Ridgid’s updated Pro Gear 2.0 tool box system – like its predecessor – is a good system at fair pricing.
The Ridgid system introduced some unique features and options, with the removable hand cart component meaning any XL-sized tool box can be placed on the bottom of a rolling stack – even the new 3-drawer tool box.
Ridgid’s system rarely grows, which isn’t good. But, what they offer is decent, and the pricing is fair.
It’s far from being the best system for my needs, but I consider Ridgid’s to be a “one size fits many mobile users” type of system.
#5 Klein ModBox
Klein’s new ModBox system is far from being at the top of the list, and to be frank I’m not convinced they’re the 5th best option.
But, ModBox is different, and that helps it stand out in an increasingly saturated market.
The system as it exists now is on-par with many other brands’ already. Its external accessory attachment system is novel and effective.
In my early tests, I found the designs and executions to be well-done. There was a minor fitment issue that self-resolved.
ModBox is very electrician-focused right now, and there’s the potential for Klein to broaden its appeal.
It’s not a system I would buy for my own use yet, but I’m watching it closely.
Jared
Can Dewalt introduce externally-mounted accessories without a redesign? It seems like Toughsystem 2.0 boxes weren’t designed with that in mind.
I’m not sure Packout was designed that way either, but the possibility of mounting things to the rails seems like a convenient accident.
James
I’ve never found anything convincing one way or another about Mikwaukee’s intentions with the rails. Coincidence or foresight? If foresight, where are the accessories / attachments all these years later?
In any case, aluminum and 3D printed attachments (I see you, Joey / Packible) make a good system even better, much better in some specific cases.
Mnoswad
No need for the external rails. Milwaukee would be fine to delete them in a future update and tough built boxes are so heavy, getting rid of the rails might lighten them up.
Either way what we all really is a dewalt 4-wheel dolly.
OldDominionDIYer
I would’ve thought the Flex stack would’ve made the top 5, it’s quite a set and has many options. I have to agree that Packout rules the domain, I’m heavily invested in the system.
MM
I thought the same. Packout is clearly the market leader right now and StackTech seems like a hot new contender with some serious potential. Those certainly belong in the list. But in my opinion the Flex system has more to offer than Ridgid or Klein.
TL
Flex has a dolly. Period the others on this list that don’t offer a dolly it truly rules them out for allot in maintenance field
Stuart
It’s an okay system, but the biggest original feature is external accessory attachments, and both Klein and
TouggBulitToughBuilt deliver better and more user friendly designs.I bought Ridgid products last year, Packout and ToughSytem throughout the years and as recent as last month, and StackTech fills other needs very well.
Flex doesn’t offer anything that other brands aren’t already doing better.
Ridgid is less featured, but more affordable and consistently widely available. Lowe’s dumped the Flex tool boxes from their stores last year around this time, except for a few combos they hid in random spots, and I’m not convinced they’ll give Flex Stack Pack permanent shelf space.
Klein has features and capabilities other brands don’t, and I think ModBox holds more promise. I’ve been told they’ll be in stores throughout the year and not just for the holidays.
Stack Pack isn’t bad, I just don’t think it’s a top 5 system.
tim Rowledge
I know it’s simply a typo but I can’t help thinking of TouggBulit as Ikea’s entry in the market.
Stuart
Ikea would do well with a compact light duty system!
IndianaJonesy (Matt J.)
Seriously…I really like their new Bror garage system. If they did a system that integrated and docked with that, it could be a real nice prosumer setup.
eddie sky
Tougg Bulit is a Norwegian actor, that starred in such familiar films as “DeValt of Geld”, “Milvelk and Key” and our favourite, “Am Ik Eet Ah! – Reveng”
🙂
MT
I was in a local Lowes yesterday and two employees were busy unpacking a new Flex Stack Pack shipment and stocking an aisle with it.
Brad
I decided to get into one of these systems, starting with adding one to my Xmas list, so I was weighing the pros and cons. Ultimately what holds the Ridgid system back is that there are only a few products, but at least they have a drawered base coming out and an attachable wet/dry vac. My needs aren’t extensive or esoteric, so I went with it anyways, and it’s what I have now.
If I were paying for it myself, had more specific needs, or were likely to buy Milwaukee tools that come with system-ready cases, I might well have gone for Packout, despite my minor annoyance at the hokey product name (although arguably less so than is typical with Milwaukee). I also might have considered ToughBuilt or even Flex.
JJN
Brad
The drawers are in the HD stores now. The price is $119.
Grab an employee with their hand held device and have them enter the 10 digit SKU 1010211973
At this time the drawer box has not been allocated shelf space so the product is in an overhead, but not the normal overhead. With that sku they should be able to find it, Non allocated product is usually kept in a special location so the reps (Milwaukee in this case) can fine it when they merchandise the product.
Employee can see inventory in other stores. The stores were shipped 3 or 4 units a piece. You might have to hit up more than one store.
Note this sku will not work on the HD website or the HD App. Only with the employee handheld device at this time.
Also a cool thing to note is that you can configure your boxes by swapping out the drawer rails. I turned two 3dr units into one 4 dr and one 2 dr
Good Luck
RoaPilot
I have liked the pack out system for a long time but the cost is high to adopt as a system. I really like the tough stack concept and build will look forward to seeing it roll out.
However I don’t really need these indestructible toolboxes and most of my stuff fits in smaller boxes. Also most of the drawers in each system are eye watering expensive. So my system of choice at the moment is DeWalt tstak because it’s cheaper and less bulky than the rest. Since I get into various hobbies not just construction stuff I have a wide range of tools for aircraft maintenance, machining, welding, electronics, automotive, etc. Some of these tools don’t get a lot of day to day action. But I use tstak boxes to organize and stack them away ready to go.
I also keep tstak boxes as “fly away” kit boxes for other activities I do. I have small tstak box with spares, tools, and Ryobi battery air pump for any surprise when I go out for a bicycle ride or in case a friend needs a quick adjustment. I keep my bicycle helmet, gloves, and bicycle shoes in a tstak crate along with a towel. So when I leave for a bicycle ride and am loading everything up into the car everything is ready to go.
I find tstak is cheaper to use around the shop and for various other tasks. I have tstak drawer set on my welding cart to organize the various Tig accessories I would have not done the same with ok pack out drawers. Tstak drawers ar 36 dollars while pack out is north of a 100 dollars.
I have bought the DeWalt though system 2.0 for tools that are too long for tstak but those are very few and far between.
Stuart
Tstak/Versastack was in running for 4th or 5th place, but was pushed to maybe 6th. They’re good systems and I’d buy more, but not as daily-use boxes where I’ve found much greater convenience in other systems’ options.
Jeff
If packout & ridgid are like M18, then TSTAK is the M12. Smaller, lighter, but still gets the job done.
Back of my work SUV is full of tstak drawers, boxes, & crates. I’d love to try packout or ridgid drawers, but after doing some math, ive learned they are too big and I would actually lose storage space. If only Tstak had some compact competition.
Eliot Truelove
I agree with this, and wish so too. I love Packouts compact organizers, but something half more wide, between that and a full width Packout would be perfect.
There is a lot to be said for the enduring nature of the Tanos Systainers system and the related Macpack boxes of Makita, if only they were tougher boxes.
I don’t have any but I wonder if you could modify the insides with fiberglass mat and resin to strengthen them somehow. I’m the meantime, I wait for Makitas new system with my very few amount of Packout products and old Makita cases individual tool cases.
Steven+B
It’s a shame no one addresses the indoor market. There’s T-Stak and DeWalt is not taking it too seriously.
Packout and ToughSystem and ModBox waste a lot of space and weight making their boxes off-road capable and storm-proof. I haven’t looked at stacktech yet, but assume the same applies.
As someone who needs organization, but not in the elements, I would gladly pay packout prices for something between Tstak and packout…durable enough to hold weight, but designed for people who take care of their tools and work indoors.
I need light weather sealing…for taking an electrician’s tools through the building…not for leaving on the back of a truck in a monsoon.
Packout seems designed for people who just DGAF and are sloppy with expensive tools….like they leave them on the truck and use the side handles to toss them like a baggage handler does your luggage. (and I’ve seen workers do that in my neighborhood).
James
Sortimo. Festool. Mostly Sortimo. I have a WorkMo in the shop and it’s fantastic.
RoaPilot
Googled Workmo and the system looks awesome but the price. Ouch.
James
Yeah I know it’s steep. I hesitated for about 3 years. My original intention was to buy one that integrated L-Boxxes…as I’ve mentioned elsewhere I got off the L-Boxx train, although LT-Boxxes are integral.
Eventually, I was placing an order with Sortimo for some accessories and LT-Boxxes and I pulled the trigger. I got the 5 drawer unit with a bunch of side accessories.
Top drawer: PPE and drill/drive accessories
Second drawer: shop paperwork
Third drawer: shop expensive technical tools
Fourth drawer: (not often used) canvas tool bags with project specific parts
Fifth drawer: (rarely used) empty tool bags for project specific small parts, etc
The sides have aluminum panels that fit Workmo proprietary accessories and here I hang a bunch of hand tools. On one side are some specific tools to our bread and butter tasks, and on the other side common hand tools (I was able to increase the capacity by hanging tool organizers designed for belts and fill up their pockets).
The top stays empty as a catch all for project parts, and keeps my work bench empty of small parts while I’m working.
The thing screams quality. No doubt there are more affordable options but for our purposes we love it.
Jronman
Have you considered Tanos Systainers? It isn’t the fastest growing system but you got the basics covered. Arguably has one of the better 3rd party support of the lighter duty storage options. There’s is also the Sortimo/Bosch system that has been around for ages. There is also Versastack from Craftsman that is Tstak compatible and I believe they have a few extra offerings. Also Craftsman has Tradestack. I don’t know if they are compatible with Tstak or not
Matthew
I have tradestack drawer units I got on sale with the buy more save more for $66. Had adapters already for them so I have tradestack with Tstak/Versastack on top in my outside bins. They house tools, hardware, etc. I’m not going back to keeping hardware in clear lid organizers when I put them in the tradestack drawers. No unstacking needed to have access to everything. Tradestack/tstak/versastacks are really great options for the money.
Stuart
As the others suggested, look at Tanos or Festool T-Loc Systainers.
They are smaller, less durable, and considerably expensive, but the ones I own or have tested provide a great user experience.
Matthew
I still think Tstak is the best modular platform out there and that’s due to size, and cost. 90% of my tools fit in Tstak single drawer units and the larger tools go in either the ridgid/tradestack crates if they don’t fit in my Tstak larger boxes.
I also run half size Packout containers for tool storage with Jonah design inserts. Anything full size Packout or stack tech are just too big and bulky. Absolutely love them all but no thank you on the size and weight.
Jeff
If only they made half size drawers!
Eliot Truelove
I would literally jump on those so quick!
MT
VersaStack/TStak is perfect for me.
William
I agree. I love my Tstaks and wish Dewalt would invest more in them. Systainers are an option but honestly I think the Tstaks are more durable. The plastic feels less brittle than the Systainers. To me Tstak has the best balance of cost, size, and convenience. I wish it had more options though.
Matthew
What would you like to see from Tstak? I invested in some tradestack drawers because of the buy more save more so I love the higher capacity for larger tools, and then have Tstak on top of them with the adapter. Love them for $66 from lowes. They have single drawer and 3 or 4 drawer on the pamphlet inside the tradestack but they’re no where to be found and craftsman couldn’t comment on them.
Was just curious what you would like too see with Tstak offerings.
Robert Dailey
Absolutely agree, I have a mix of systainers and tstak/versastack. The tstaks are way more durable and the clear lid organizers are better than the systainer organizers. Plus they are less than 1/2 the price. However I do love how the TLOC system works especially with all the other Festool stuff like the vacuums.
I need to find or make a TSTAK to Systainer adapter plate.
Out of all the big bulky systems the new stack tech looks and feels the best. But I’ll stick with my smaller boxes
Jronman
I’m surprised Flex was not on the list considering how many offerings they have now. Maybe it is just me but Packout seems to be trailing behind some other brands lately. These are going to be some bold claims, but I think StackPack and StackTech have dropped Packout to 3rd place.
James
Examples of why? Don’t forget the integrated tools such as radio, vacuum, lights, socket kits, etc. I’m not saying they aren’t 3rd in some specifics (price? colour? what else?) but they’re still the clear overall leader for sure. And I HATE the colour.
Stuart
What does Flex do better than Milwaukee?
I’ve tested nearly every tool box and organizer they launched so far.
In no uncertain terms, Flex isn’t bumping anyone from top spots, and certainly not Milwaukee. Their tool boxes are decent, but not as good in my opinion.
I donated my Flex drawer tool box samples in November and replaced them with purchased Milwaukee drawers that I like using a lot better.
Having a lot of “not bad” options isn’t a top-5 quality to me.
There are some design approaches I liked, but ultimately not much especially impressed me.
I am extremely preferential when it comes to storage products.
I have yet to purchase a single Flex tool box, organizer, or storage accessory, and don’t see that changing anytime soon.
Seth Goodson
And that being said Stuart anytime you need to donate stuff just send it my way 🤣
Stuart
I tend to donate locally, as I’m much more likely to receive continued feedback over time from testers.
Seth Goodson
All good. Just had to throw it out there 😀
Seth Goodson
Even as a Packout guy I agree. They have been slacking a little as to innovation. Hopefully these new platforms will make them continue to innovate. That was the downfall of DeWalt IMHO hopefully Milwaukee doesn’t follow suit.
sliksound
Why didn’t Ryobi Link make the list?
Stuart
Why would it?
Seth Goodson
The Ryobi storage was a last min entry to try and grab a few sales. Cheap feel boxes and practically zero selection. I would lump the Klein Mod Boxes in the same category.
Matthew
I like Ryobi link stuff but they’re priced too high for the lower quality. The drawer unit is way too expensive for what ya get.
Seth Goodson
I am a Packout guy myself. I agree with you as to the utilization faults and cost. IMHO what has kept Milwaukee on top is the latching system. Smooth, simple one handed operation and works great even when dirty and full of jobsite dust. I do feel they could make a few more Packouts for some different tool storage options and that would be nice as well. I am heavily invested in Packout so I will never be changing. But if I was coming to the market for the first time right now then the Toughbuilt system has come out swinging. The latching system works very smooth, still waiting to see jobsite use reviews. I also had the first gen boxes. They were fine but the latching system sucks. The sec gen has made stacking them easier but still a 2 handed operation to take apart. LONG LOVE PACKOUT
Stuart
Definitely.
The forward-sliding system was a game-changer for floorspace efficiency. After using L-Boxx and ToughSystem for years, I was immediately sold on Packout’s approach.
It’s less important to me now, as I switched to mostly drawers rather than towers of tool boxes I’d have to stack and unstack to get to anything.
Joe
As a DIY type whose footprint only extends to building a clubhouse for the kids in the backyard, my needs aren’t that complex so I am reluctant to drop alot money into a storage system.
I am though finding great utility in living in the overall dewalt ecosystem as the adaptor plate allows me to use their pro organizers with some tough system boxes I bought from facebook and over the holiday I was able to pick up the craftsmam versastack 18 in tool bag for under $40 which I can swap in when needed. I feel like if Dewalt just begins designing some of their one-off products like the step ladder toolbox to connect to their systems, they would have a great overall mix and match system.
Scott K
I also really only use my tools in and around my home. They rarely travel far. I haven’t had a need for a system like this- but as I’ve added more tools and batteries, I’ve started wondering if a modular system might be more space efficient. This would also streamline dragging stuff to the garage or driveway for projects that require lots of tools. I wouldn’t need weatherproofing or the heaviest duty protection. Picking up some used components may be the way to go…
James
If you’re on level (ish) ground such as driveway and garage, drawers on a 4 wheel dolly are a little more expensive but they make such a difference.
Matthew
Agreed. Four wheel cart, Tstak single drawers. Light weight, fits most tools, most batteries, and it’s easily maneuvered in and around the garage. If you have tools that are too big for the drawer units then you can always get the larger cases.
Michael F
This is almost exactly my use case and I found that Tanos Systainers work great and are space efficient. My only complaint is they are a bit expensive.
John e bgood
Ya man versa stack and t stack good value I wish the cart detached from bottom box so I could put drawers o. Bottom I don’t need boxes that are heavy I don’t drop my tool out of airplane all I need is small light weather tight protection at a good price tstak and versa are not heavy duty but I take care of my stuff and don’t abuse it I hope it lasts a long time but for the price it’s all I need
Jimmie
I can’t yet bring myself to really buy into a modular system. Now that I’m on the wrong side of ’50’ just thinking about having to unstack everything to get something from one of the bottom containers makes my back ache. And while I admit that the idea of portability is attractive I mostly work in my garage/shop so the space designers sacrifice making systems like Packout rugged is mostly lost on me.
I have a couple L-boxxes that came with tools but I’m not sold on buying more Bosch/Sortimo either, mostly due to the aforementioned stacking/unstacking dance and, in the case of Sortimo, price. I suppose I could build a Sortimo-style cabinet with rails so that I can just pull out the L-boxx that I want without unstacking but I haven’t yet motivated myself to build it.
Maybe it’s just a case of there being too many options and subconsciously waiting/hoping that a manufacturer creates the perfect system (for me) with their next iteration…
William Adams
That’s pretty much why I’m finally going to break down and invest in Systainers and a Tanos MW 1000 Mobile Workstation — hoping having a 3-drawer unit on the bottom will make it reasonable affordable (in terms of buying the drawer add-ons).
Stuart
What will you be using it for?
Speaking as someone that bought the new style Systainer/Sortainer drawer boxes, I’d say they are great for light parts and supplies, but not really for tools.
William Adams
I will be using it for small/precision hand tools — mostly in support of my CNC machines — most of my projects are pretty small in scale, so my hand tools should be a workable fit.
Worst case I’ll go for a traditional sort of Systainer/tool insert — I’ll just need to design it to match my tools.
Stuart
I’d be curious to see what your setup looks when done.
I can also appreciate your dilemma; I’ve been trying to think of what I would buy or build for that type of need, but it’s not easy. Nearly all modular systems are poorly optimized for small hand tools and machine components.
jake
Efficient small/precision hand tool storage can challenging. Perhaps a related discussion post could help folks learn from each other.
ITCD
I’ve been thinking of that also. Some stacking storage came out, Milwaukee decided to come out with a system that made stacking storage erupt in popularity, right now a lot of companies are coming out with things now but… why does the stacking have to stay a central part of the system?
What would be ideal to me would be a system that has stackable components like everyone else, but made in a way where you can pull just the box you want without having to do all the other stuff. Sure, storage that is front-opening already helps a lot with that but sometimes a top-loading solution is needed or desired. What about a modular system that takes cues from server racks, or each component comes with vertical rails to add to the stack that allows support for stuff above it when you remove it?
I’m intrigued by modular storage but the whole stacking and unstacking thing just does not appeal to me, to the point where I just go with the tried and true throw some stuff in a bag out of the tool chest.
Matthew
Tstak single drawers and the dolly of 4 wheel cart. Light weight boxes, drawer units so you have easy access to every single one.
Brad
I did some finish carpentry work with a fiend of mine that has the sustainer system. He has a few, but not all, Festool tools. I like their drawer systems the best of what I’ve used – better than Milwaukee and DeWalt. For finished carpentry it that system zooms to excel. Lots of areas for specialty bits, countersinks, etc.
jamanjeval
The missing feature of these systems is that few tools are sold in them like Festool does with tanos boxes. Specifically, it’s as if Milwaukee did not even consider how Packout could hold many of their tools and they just made them in some arbitrary size.
JoeM
This landed precisely as I expected it would. Packout is too big, and too well developed, to be anything other than #1. ToughStack is too well established to be out of the top 3. The new StackTech is far too versatile to, also, be left out of the Top 3, Ridgid was the first to have the rolling Drawer option, instead of a rolling Box, plus it has side containment bars for keeping those drawers closed while moving. Then Klein… I gotta be rude here, but somebody was bound to include a Systainer clone, no matter how ridiculous that system is. Better it is Klein, a genuinely useful company, rather than Bosch or Festool.
This truly does represent the 2024 tool storage options in order of popularity, I think.
Stuart
None of these are Systainer clones.
The side retainers on the Ridgid drawer box are the one thing I don’t like about that tool box.
Michael F
I just want to point out that Tanos is a wholly owned subsidiary of Festool and was created for the sole purpose of creating toolboxes for Festool to ship tools in.
JoeM
…Y’know how all the different TSTAK/VersaSTAK systems are made by the same company (SBD) and yet are all identical? They’re complete duplicates. So when I say “TSTAK” what company pops into your head? I bet it’s still DeWALT.
Similarly to Tanos, when I say Systainer, I do think of it as the Festool version of TSTAK, in that it’s the storage system that company chooses to favour most. It doesn’t mean Tanos didn’t make them, it just means they’re branded Festool.
As to “Clones” of this system… There was, what, Bosch LBOXX(TBOXX?), Systainer Itself, a handful of cheap knockoffs, and then look at the Klein up there. Systainer Latches, hard edges, and stacking functions. I think the difference, I admit I haven’t checked in a while… is that the Klein system is larger. I consider that a clone still. And I would still choose Klein over anything Festool family if my life depended on it anyways.
My only real debate now, is TSTAK or StackTech. I literally just started with my first two TSTAK boxes… but the StackTech is calling my name, and has since Stuart first announced its arrival over the coming couple years. TSTAK is a very practical, joy-bringing option for my small space… but StackTech is kinda like having that secret crush who was out of your league, and your heart wouldn’t stop racing long enough to ask them out. What’s going to give out first? My Heart? Or My Wallet?
Mark W. Ingalls
Tstak/Versastack prices stay low in part because manufacturing and distribution is a lights-out operation.
I’m retired, so not bothered by the extra few minutes it takes to pack my truck for volunteering. It’s really nice that nothing shifts when I turn or tap the brakes, though.
Would like systems ranked according to cost per unit volume,
J
Anyone know when you can buy any of the drawers for the Ridgid Pro Gear 2.0??
Seen the pictures, but nothing, anywhere for sale!
Stuart
Readers have reported that it’s now appearing at Home Depot stores.
Doug N
Looks like the Ridgid drawers are finally online: https://www.homedepot.com/p/RIDGID-2-0-Pro-Gear-System-22-in-2-Plus-1-Drawers-Modular-Tool-Box-Storage-255334/326961926
But only shows local availability, not shipping options, for me at least.
Sam
Are any of these systems’ drawers easily removable? I like to pull out a drawer and bring it to the benchtop.
Stuart
Removable? Yes. Easily? No.
You might want to look at L-Boxx or Tekton https://14cyiuhvcgv.com/tekton-modular-mechanics-tool-kits-storage-system/%3C/a%3E .
Kevin
I scooped up the StackTech rolling box and full size organizer a couple of weeks ago and then a couple of days ago my local Lowes got ONE of their 3 drawer boxes in stock which I was able to scoop up and I love them.
I’ve been a big fan of Toughbuilt since I first got one of their pouches 4-5 years ago and when I saw they were coming out with a modular system I knew I’d invest in it. Over the years I’ve used others Packouts and for a while I used both Craftsman systems but was never really sold on any of them.
Sam Toshi
If you’ve used the ToughSystem, StackTech and Ridgid Pro in rugged conditions you will understand why they are nowhere near qualified for this list.
For example, have a look at the reviews on the Ridgid Pro official site. Use them in an actual jobsite for a month and you can relate to the dozens of outspoken and the hundreds, if not thousands, of reticent users who have snapped their handles, making the entire system obsolete.
StackTech – wheels being the primary failure mode, and massive alleged infringement of competitor’s IP.
ToughSystem – My interlocking side latches failed after half a year of use…
Stuart
I’ve heard complaints about every single storage brand over the years.
Some of them seem valid, a lot are exaggerated.
Mike McFalls
IMO these Modular’s are terribly inefficient for use unless your configuration includes drawer units (which can’t fit most 18v power tools) as you have to unstack them to access tools. As the owner of a combination of Makita Makpacs and Tanos Systainers- I know first hand the annoyance when the box you need is on the bottom of the stack- which’s always seems to happen.
Tanos T Lock is nice because you can access, within reason, any box in your stack provided it’s not 8’ high and top loaded with weight. That said, the various generations of Tanos boxes also all suffer from limited space…. Many 18v tools simply won’t fit in the smaller footprint of the design.
The new flex system, on paper looks like a close rival to the pack out. They are benefiting from packout being in the market for so long and releasing boxes that don’t require a bunch of add-ons and accessories to be purchased or 3-D printed.
But even then it’s gonna suffer from the same problem of having to remove the boxes on top to get to what you need. I would like to see these companies focus more on solving for access to the bottom boxes without removing the stack then focus on extension cord holders and wall mounts.
Dusty
Right now I’m committed to Versa/T-Stak with TradeStack mixed in. Obviously cost is primary factor, but I have to admit I like many of the smaller Dewalt parts organizers and the ability to interface between the systems.
For me, it’s a no-brainer that any system needs to have the capability to have drawers in the bottom of a rolling stack. I’m sure it sound trivial, but for me this is as critical as anything else. Kudos to Ridgid for the modular wheel attachment. I use a tstak cart for my drawers, but cannot see for the life of me why Tradestack doesn’t have a cart yet to allow their drawers to be stacked on bottom.
Secondarily l, being able to walk-mount boxes would be nice as well. I’d like to think that a modular system that can turn into permanent/semi-permanent garage storage would be awful convenient.
ToughBuilt’s system looks awesome. I’ll probably stick to jealously looking at them at the store though.
JGonzo
My tool usage is overwhelmingly woodworking and furniture, so I tend to buy a lot of Festool. As a result, I’m more or less involuntarily committed to the Systainer ecosystem. Packout and the other “jobsite” competitors do have a lot more durability and a great ecosystem, but there two areas where Festool/Systainer is vastly better that keep me from making a move to a cheaper system:
1. Factory custom inserts for tools. Sure, it’s not THAT much work to get some kaizen foam and cut out some slots for your tools, but try as I have in other systems, I simply can’t rival the ingenuity and quality of the Festool inserts that come with basically every single tool. I walk out of the store with my tool in a custom case (with storage pre-allotted to accessories I might add later) and it immediately drops into a drawer, rails, or a stack of the boxes I already own. Zero additional labor or investment (because they’ve already charged me an arm and a leg, lol). But seriously, why is Milwaukee not selling Packouts with pre-molded tool inserts? I’d make the jump almost instantly.
2. Organizers – I don’t know what it is with the Packout and ToughSystem organizers, but some of us buy hardware in less than 5lb quantities and need smaller organizer bins. The new organizers in the 3rd gen Systainers, while pricey, leave the American brands in the dust (and are even competitive with T-Boxxes – take that, Adam Savage!).
Finally, an often overlooked aspect of the Systainer is that every size is designed to be an interlocking sub-section of a standard EUR-pallet. This isn’t much of a big deal in the US (obviously), but three of them side by side comes out to almost exactly 1200 mm (47.5 in), meaning they fit quite nicely in most pickup beds or vans (since those are usually sized to fit 48 inch sheet goods). I have no idea if any of the jobsite-style boxes do the same, but it’s surprisingly helpful when it’s time to haul the things around.
K J
I recently bought the rigid mid sized toolbox and I’m quite impressed with it! I compared it to packout along with tough system 2.0 in store and while it’s less featured and feels slightly less robust the price just couldn’t be beat. 40 bucks was 20 cheaper than most of the competitors. I do wish there were more accessories but I can get over that and just make my own.
Don Julio
SK has an all steel modular system. Seems to be new, only six boxes available. They’re heavy, but what’s interesting is that the contents of all six boxes are accessible from the front…
https://www.amazon.com/stores/page/282AC03B-B9C6-4A0A-84A6-72E000B869CC
Brian
Packout is definitely nice and I own several but darn they are expensive. The Toughbuilt look great and have several options right out of the gate but they are just as expensive as Packout or moreso.
To be honest I have several different brands of modular tool boxes ranging from Walmart Hart, Harbor Freights boxes, DeWalt first version, Ridgid and Packout. I store different things in different boxes. Things that rarely get used but worth keeping go in the Hart ones I have but unfortunately they are not nearly as cheap as they used to be so I’ll not longer buy any. Well you get the idea anyway. After spending way too much money on all the boxes I’ll probably keep buying Ridgid and occasionally the HF version for less used tools. Ridgid is the best value for what you get. My Milwaukee tools will fit just fine in Ridgid boxes and the money I save can go to buying more tools. To be honest I’d still prefer power tools came in blow molded cases. I don’t blame people for buying Packouts because they are definitely nice and I’m sure I’m not done buying them either but most will probably be Ridgid.
If I was to start all over again I’d look at replacing my Packout with Toughbuilt but that’s just me. I haven’t seen one but I wish Ridgid had a 4 wheeled dolly for boxes instead of the two wheeled dolly built into the box.
Anyway that’s just my opinion, there’s no wrong answer if it suits your purpose well. I’d hate to think how much money I have tied up in the boxes alone.
Just an fyi I like the HF version just fine but they stay in the shop most of the time. I’ve heard it they get overly dirty the latches that connect different boxes will bind up with the dirt and you’ll have a hard time getting them apart, I haven’t seen that in mine though but an employee who works there told me about that.
Good luck everyone
Torchy
I need a cheap-ish, light duty toolbox system, anyone have recommendations? My use is for combat robotics, I just need it to survive rain and some decently hard terrain, as well as have really good small parts organizers. I have been considering tstak/versastack but am unsure atm…
Stuart
Tstak/VersaStack are good, but have limited options and are smaller than other systems.
My advice is to get to a Home Depot store and then a Lowe’s store, and check out all of the systems you can get your hands on. It’ll give you a good sense of their size, weight, and features.
A lot of modular tool boxes look great on paper and are spoken highly of, but ultimately you’re the one who’s going to have to move things around.
For small parts, Milwaukee has the broadest selection. But, I’ve seen 3D printing enthusiasts do wonders with larger bins designed for bulk parts and fasteners.
Torchy
Tried out Packout in HD, I really liked it, but I can’t justify the price for my use case. Sadly, TSTAK/FATMAX/VersaStack/beyond do not have have water resistance https://cee.dewalt.global/systems/storage-solutions/tstak. I see that Husky Build-Out looks pretty good, with water resistance, and is decently cheap. I’ll keep doing some more research. Also, your website is a gold mine of knowledge. This will definitely help me buy my first set of tools (using my Dad’s (white) Makita drill). Do you have any other leads, maybe up-and-coming companies?
Corey
For me Ridgid was top choice. I needed draws on the bottom. I didn’t want to have to unpack my whole tower just to get into the bottom box. I’ve been real happy with the price and quality.