10 Best Tools for Builders
Discover the 10 best rated power tools, hand tools and accessories for builders as rated by 1,000's of trades on Tool Talk. Whether you're an apprentice starting out or a builder with years of experience, these top-rated tools should give you everything you need to become a master of the trade.



Makita DMR104W DAB Digital Radio
Portable DAB radio designed for on-site use and great sounding music. Compatible with MP3 players or smartphones via the aux input. Rubber bumpers for protection during use and transportation. DAB signal provides a wide selection of radio stations.
Top reviews for Makita DMR104W DAB Digital Radio
Review for Makita DMR104W DAB Digital Radio by Plastering solutions
17th February 2022
Great dab radio. It’s good bass very well built. It’s very loud. Compatible with battery but you can’t charge your battery when plugged into power outlet. Reasonable price. Doesn’t easily interfere. Perfect site radio.
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Review for Makita DMR104W DAB Digital Radio by J M Construction
13th February 2022
Great product first thing to be turned on in the morning and last to be turned off, every site needs one, strong build quality, gas been dropped plenty of times over the last few years but still going strong.
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Review for Makita DMR104W DAB Digital Radio by D.a. Landscaping
10th February 2022
Awesome radio had mine for over 5 years and still going well I upgraded to new makita dab radio but that sits in garage until old one gives up
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Review for Makita DMR104W DAB Digital Radio by MBS
6th February 2022
Good little radio. Holds signal well wherever I've been working. Sound quality is good, although since I've heard the quality of the newest makira dab radio, I will be upgrading from this one soon.
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Makita 18V LXT Impact Driver DTD152Z
The Makita DTD152Z is a cordless Impact Driver powered by an 18V Li-ion battery. Ideal for applications such as tightening of self-drilling screws or light duty machine screws.
Top reviews for Makita 18V LXT Impact Driver DTD152Z
Review for Makita 18V LXT Impact Driver DTD152Z by Install (Ceilings And Partitions) Ltd
14th June 2022
Bargain impact driver, when you can get this for £40 on Amazon prime next day delivery. The only fault I've got is my previous one developed a trigger fault, and the replacement part cost almost as much as buying a new one
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Review for Makita 18V LXT Impact Driver DTD152Z by J M Construction
13th February 2022
No brainier everyone should have this in there kit , I have the brushless model .Gets the job done no messing , feels powerful , is powerful does what it says on the tin and more.
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Review for Makita 18V LXT Impact Driver DTD152Z by Paddison Appliance Testing
9th February 2022
Never owned a impact driver before but I now can't live without this. It makes building garden fences or decking soo much easier and saves time and effort. Very powerful and lightweight easy to handle.
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Review for Makita 18V LXT Impact Driver DTD152Z by Sanderson
5th February 2022
I have the brushless model, best drill / power tool I have ever owned, we only ever use makita gear. Use it all the time very versatile plenty of power
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Stanley Fatmax One-Piece Claw Hammer 20OZ
One-piece steel hammer with anti-vibration technology built into the handle. Large strike face for great accuracy. Precision balanced head and soft-grip handle for ultimate comfort and control.
Top reviews for Stanley Fatmax One-Piece Claw Hammer 20OZ
Review for Stanley Tools FatMax® All Steel Curved Claw Hammer by Moore Heating And Plumbing
9th February 2022
Feels lovely in hand when using it lovely balance to the hammer and a decent size head I find it very nice to use and can recommend it to anyone much better feel than my old hammer
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Review for Stanley Tools FatMax® All Steel Curved Claw Hammer by Richard
5th February 2022
Great solid shaft hammer ,what does the job just as good as it's more well known branded versions, just feels right in your hand , had mine for numerous years now
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Review for Stanley Tools FatMax® All Steel Curved Claw Hammer by Steventons
2nd February 2022
Well weighted with a comfortable grip, does the jobs well, as expected from Stanley.
I would recommend this product.
Great bit of kit cant knock it!
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Review for Stanley Tools FatMax® All Steel Curved Claw Hammer by Csp Elec
1st February 2022
This hammer is very well balanced. Not at all heavy to hold but packs a punch. Feels good to hold. Nice and slim line and looks quite fancy .
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OX Tools Pro Stainless Steel Plasterers Trowel
Pre-worn edges to eliminate line & ripple marks. High quality tempered stainless steel blade. Lightweight aluminium shank. Handle set for perfect balance. Fully riveted shank.. DURAGRIP handle for ultimate comfort.
Top reviews for OX Tools Pro Stainless Steel Plasterers Trowel
Review for OX Tools PRO STAINLESS STEEL PLASTERERS TROWEL by Richard
5th February 2022
Mainly use the superflex
version of this trowel and
brand , the 16 and 14 size trowels cuts to through plaster like a knife through butter
,Takes a lot of pressure off your wrists and shoulder
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Review for OX Tools PRO STAINLESS STEEL PLASTERERS TROWEL by H Harrison And Co
11th February 2021
Great trowel for the money as the guy below said it doesn’t rust, I hve started going for their range based on that because I do not use these tools everyday and therefore they aren’t well cared for.
But nice grip, really easy to pick up and achieve a smooth finish thanks to its balance and flex.
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Review for OX Tools PRO STAINLESS STEEL PLASTERERS TROWEL by S C Plastering
24th January 2021
Find this product one of the most Flexible trowels in the market. Would recommend this trowel to anyone who wants to achieve a good finish.
A trowel that doesn’t rust. Gr8 comfort while plastering
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Review for OX Tools PRO STAINLESS STEEL PLASTERERS TROWEL by Lock Building Contractor
23rd January 2021
Mid pice point in the market with the quality noticeably better then cheaper products but as good as the top brands. I would buy again when a replacement is needed.
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Makita DGA456Z 18V Brushless Cordless Angle Grinder
Cordless angle grinder with a high power brushless motor, increasing power and reducing battery drain. Features automatic speed control (constant speed control), which automatically changes blade speed according to load. Electronic brake for rapid deceleration of blade. Anti-restart prevents accidental machine start up, current limiter and anti-kickback detection features offer added protection.
Top reviews for Makita DGA456Z 18V Brushless Cordless Angle Grinder
Review for Makita DGA456Z 18V Brushless Cordless Angle Grinder by Anon
9th February 2022
Great upgrade over the brushed version. Battery lasts a good while and is nicely balanced.
Although I wish I bought the version with the paddle trigger as the switch on the top limits control.
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Review for Makita DGA456Z 18V Brushless Cordless Angle Grinder by Bdi
2nd November 2021
Been using this item for the past 2 years as most of my power tools are now makita on the 18v platform.
It is used daily for threaded rod and uni strut with out issue.
Can t fault it
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Review for Makita DGA456Z 18V Brushless Cordless Angle Grinder by B.C.Electrical
3rd May 2021
I use this grinder on a day to day basis for chasing out with a extractor attachment on it.
It’s had heavy use feom the moment I bought it and has yet to fail with minimal maintenance from me.
Would highly recommend this product.
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Review for Makita DGA456Z 18V Brushless Cordless Angle Grinder by Michael
29th April 2021
As usual another solid performer on the platform and i geuss standered now on most cordless grinders is the cut out when the blade gets snagged which always makes your heart skip a beat when using corded grinders that dont have that feature. Well priced aswell for brushless.
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DeWalt Multi Tool
Multi-function tools use an oscillating action to carry out a large variety of smaller scale, detailed functions including routing, sawing, sanding, scraping, cutting etc. The materials the various accessories can be used on include copper pipes, plastic, dry walls, wood, stone, paint, grout removal, tile adhesive, window putty, caulking etc.
Top reviews for DeWalt Multi Tool
Review for DEWALT DCS355 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool by Campbell Building & Maintenance
24th July 2022
As a general rule DeWalt are my main platform for power tools, but the multi tool is possibly one the best tools in their range. I’ve tried other brands, but this multi tool is so well balanced in your hand and cut very well too.
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Review for DEWALT DCS355 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool by Bits ‘n’ Bobs
20th July 2022
Just bought this and absolutely luv this. This is my new addition to my Dewalt family . This was all down to you guys for advice on this great machine.
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Review for DEWALT DCS355 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool by M R Electrical
2nd July 2022
Absolutely outstanding piece of kit, whether you are cutting drywall to fit back boxes, notching out wooden joists, cutting pvc pipework etc it can do it all with total ease. I'd be lost without this bit of kit. Powerful and beyond useful!
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Review for DEWALT DCS355 XR Brushless Oscillating Multi-Tool by Shine Electrical (Leeds)
14th June 2022
After replacing a burnt out unit from another brand, I decided to spend the extra for the DeWalt so I could make use of the interchangeable batteries. Although I was impressed with my previous unit, the DeWalt unit made it look silly, the power and accuracy was 10 times better and was easy to use for long periods, took a while to get used to the variable trigger speed as my old one had a constant speed selector but this was soon second nature and actually made the job easier. Great little LED on the front which helps when following faint lines.
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The Trade Choose Optimaxx
Optimaxx is a top quality extreme-performance wood screw that incorporates a number of unique features… A specifically positioned long thin groove dramatically reduces the pressure build up on insertion by dispensing wood fibres, preventing splitting when screwing close to the edge. The razor-sharp point ensures you have an immediate start even in the hardest, smoothest surfaces.
Top reviews for The Trade Choose Optimaxx
Review for Optimaxx High Performance Wood Screws by Udell Electrical Services
22nd February 2022
I was sent a box of these screws to try out and review. On receiving the box of screws I was pleasantly surprised with the weight and sound of the screws as they move about. With cheaper screws you get a “tinny” sound as they move around and they don’t have any considerable weight to them.
I was sent a box of 100 5.0x 80
They have deep Pozzi PZ2 countersunk heads which sink the screws in nicely
Razor sharp points which means that they start easily and don’t split the wood they also have a substance on them they call “yellow Supalube Finnish” which means they fly into the wood without getting caught up.
I used these to rebuild a wooden staircase and I am really impressed. I cannot say much about the price as I was sent these as a sample but they are quite expensive compared to budget screws but you get what you pay for. I usually use Spax screws as these are better quality but I would certainly say that these Optimaxx screws are up there and a good rival. I might even switch to using optimaxx if they are more available as and when my screw stock needs re-stocking
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Review for Optimaxx High Performance Wood Screws by Spud the Sparky
21st February 2022
A very easy to use woodscrew, similar to other easy start and self countersink wood screws on the market. Slightly more expensive than others of a similar spec but hopefully the more you buy the cheaper they are. The ones I tested were a free box of 100 but I see Optimaxx do bigger trade tubs. As they are easy to dril in they are perfect for people having to put lots in on a job to minimise repetitive strain on the wrist which is why I always try to go for the right screw for the right job. Which is why Optimaxx is one of the top woodscrews for the job.
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DeWalt 18v Circular Saw
Latest generation premium Circular Saw featuring new XR Lithium Ion Technology. Part of the intelligent XR Lithium Ion Series designed for efficiency and making applications faster. Powerful & Highly Efficeint PM58 DEWALT fan cooled motor with replaceable brushes. Delivers up to 3700 rotation per minute for fast cutting action. Ergonomic handle set with rubber overmold to optimise end user comfort.
Top reviews for DeWalt 18v Circular Saw
Review for DEWALT DCS391 XR Premium Circular Saw by Lee Moss Joinery
19th October 2022
Great saw purchased to replace older nicad one and must saw coped with everything I’ve used it for! Even glided through 25 mm mdf with ease ! Only small thing is in my opinion the guide fence is to small otherwise fantastic
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Review for DEWALT DCS391 XR Premium Circular Saw by Cmjd carpentry
18th November 2021
Perfect saw, perfect price.
The ergonomics of the saw sit just perfect.
This is my second purchase of this saw, I am a carpenter and use one for 1st fix and one for 2nd fix.. so so happy with them both.
Plenty of power behind the cut, as well as on point positioning . very very easy to use and the saw guide is one of the safest I have found in cordless saws.
Also comes with an attachment for hoover dust extraction which is small enough that is not in your way
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Review for DEWALT DCS391 XR Premium Circular Saw by WRH PROPERTY MAINTENANCE
20th October 2021
Really good saw good line of cut and us true on the guard witch is good as had some that the saw does not line up with the cut line but this does, not too heavy all round good saw
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Review for DEWALT DCS391 XR Premium Circular Saw by Gunner Installations
26th September 2021
Very nice torque and a dead solid hold for the blade guide. Solid as per usual for DeWalt. Feels very controllable in use. Doesn't want to wander off. Happy with it!
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Stabila Spirit Levels
Features 1 horizontal and 2 vertical Vials. Accurate to 0.5mm/m in the normal position and 0.75mm/m in overhead position. Removable end-caps for flush fitting. Anti-slip end-caps for easier one-handed marking.
Top reviews for Stabila Spirit Levels
Review for Stabila 96-2 Double Plumb Ribbed Box Section Level by Michael
29th April 2021
Guaranteed quality and a must for all professional trades. Not sure about competitors levels as i have always used and trusted stabila for my levels and have never been let down.
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Review for Stabila 96-2 Double Plumb Ribbed Box Section Level by Eastside Electrical Services
10th April 2021
Don't buy any other levels when these are looked after they last years I'm not sure there is a builder in the country without at least one stability in their kit.
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Review for Stabila 96-2 Double Plumb Ribbed Box Section Level by Jonathan Gilbert
7th April 2021
Purchased a magnetic boat level. Build quality is 2nd to none. Magnets are nice and strong and comes in a nice belt holster. Would definitely recommend.
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Review for Stabila 96-2 Double Plumb Ribbed Box Section Level by Ian roberts building services
2nd March 2021
Best levels on the market, on my 4th level in 30 years , only bought the last because it run over and bent beyond the point of saving . Not cheap but worth every penny.
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DeWalt Tough Box
Engineered plastic side clips allows stackability with other boxes. When carrying the toolboxes by hand, they can also be fastened together, allowing them to be carried as a stack. Heavy duty metal latches and hinges for added durability. Bi-material comfortable top handle is easy to grip. Locking side handles offer alternative lifting and easier manoeuvrability.
Top reviews for DeWalt Tough Box
Review for DEWALT TOUGHSYSTEM™ Toolbox by AJL
13th November 2022
The thoughsystem is really strong and sturdy and offers a good range of products and sizes. It is a bit more limited in terms of products compared to the tstak range but the build quality is a lot better. Unfortunately it means I end up using both systems when it would be good if they had the same stuff in both ranges.
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Review for DEWALT TOUGHSYSTEM™ Toolbox by M R Electrical
2nd July 2022
Fantastic tool storage system, far superior to TStak as these can be used as a step up when ladders would be a bit overkill. Not something that you can do with TStak. Hard-wearing and certainly tough!
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Review for DEWALT TOUGHSYSTEM™ Toolbox by MWG Property Maintenance
6th February 2022
Great toolbox either for power tools or all your accessories and hand tools, stak well, strong and the rubber seal keeps all the dust and rubble away from your tools.
I would highly recommend.
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Review for DEWALT TOUGHSYSTEM™ Toolbox by Riverside Electrical & Property Services
13th June 2021
Great tool storage boxes, solid construction and ip65 water proof, you can stand on it and use it as a step, to provide that extra bit of reach and sit on it to eat your lunch.
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Big Wipes Heavy-Duty
Dual-sided for the toughest jobs, when you really need to cut through the dirt. Ideal for heavy duty use on the toughest stains and dried-on dirt, our industrial strength dual sided 'scrub & clean' Heavy-Duty 4x4 wipes offer the fastest deepest clean ever. Containing no fewer than four powerful cleaning agents and four dermatologically tested skin conditioners, Big Wipes 4x4 cleansing wipes are even tougher on grime and even kinder to your hands.
Top reviews for Big Wipes Heavy-Duty
Review for Big Wipes 4x4 Heavy-Duty Cleaning Wipes by K Anscombe Builder
7th June 2022
Good quality wipes don’t fall apart when using,shift most dirt ,paint and sealant’s . Tub keeps them wet easy to get out. Always worth keeping tub in the van
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Review for Big Wipes 4x4 Heavy-Duty Cleaning Wipes by Uk Plumbing And Heating
13th February 2022
Personally these are the best wipes on the market there is nothing worse that silicon hands but with these thay tackle it with ease its also worth getting the spray just to wet them a little bit more if its been a mucky day
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Review for Big Wipes 4x4 Heavy-Duty Cleaning Wipes by R Bell Plumbing
13th February 2022
Love Big wipes. Always have some on the van. Its worth having a bottle of the spray too it makes the wipes go a little further. The big tubs are better value for money but they are slightly high in price in my opinion.
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Review for Big Wipes 4x4 Heavy-Duty Cleaning Wipes by SlaughterHaus Design
10th February 2022
These wipes are pretty amazing, they remove virtually anything off your hands and most surfaces. So far i havent found a thing these wont clean.
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Recent Conversation

Wiha TorqueVario-S Screwdriver Sets
New review by M. Cox ElectricalAn easy to use and understand bit of kit. During use it feels nice in the hand and gives a audible click when at the desired setting. It is a bit of a fiddle to setup the torque setting and the bits themselves are weak and prone to snapping.

Wiha Electrician's Hammer
New review by ScocalSomething's are just fit for purpose, this is definitely one of those. I've used this for years, it's perfect Weight and balance for clips, a comfortable grip for working with and strong enough to last, even with the abuse mine gets. The flathead is brilliant for getting in close when you need to

Wiha Automatic Stripping Tool Up To 6mm
New review by DAJHad this a little while and very much like it. Compact and accurate cable stripper will cut very cleanly and accuracy thanks to the stop, giving you lovely consistent results when terminating numerous flexible cables. Would like the lock mechanism to be a little better as it keeps slipping open in the toolbag. But over all it does what its designed for very well.

Wiha 200mm VDE BiCut pliers
New review by DAJTool box staple these side cutters. Nice grip , they sit well in the hand and feel good to use. They have stayed sharp with use and even on materials they shouldn’t be used on . They move freely and are accurate. Also a handy little hammer should you feel the need.