Buying tools for work or a project at home can be exciting but overwhelming since there are so many options available. And, tools can be expensive if you want a brand name or something high quality. But why are tools so expensive?
Tools are expensive because of their high quality, trusted brand names, and development to make the tools stronger. When you buy more expensive tools, you are getting tools that will last longer, are safer, and are more efficient, making the job you are doing easier.
This article explains the major differences between cheap and expensive tools and why tool prices increase.
There are also some resources that will help you understand the benefits of more expensive tools and choose the best tool for your job or project.
Cheap vs. Expensive Tools
Expensive tools have a lot of benefits over cheaper ones, including quality, reliability, and safety.
More expensive tools might be safer than the cheaper ones.
The higher cost means that the brands have put more time and effort into following and sometimes even exceeding the safety standards.
On the other hand, manufacturers might make the cheaper ones outside the United States, where safety standards are not as high, meaning lower safety for the tools.
And, the cheaper ones break easier, which also causes safety issues.
Tools made by well-known brands like DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Ryobi are more expensive than lesser-known brands.
But, this is because the more expensive brands have proven themselves to be trusted and sell high-quality products, so you know you are getting a good tool.
Related article: Are Milwaukee Tools Better Than Ryobi?
Cheaper tools will break easier if you are not careful with how you use them.
If you are not typically gentle with your tools, or if you have a project that involves heavy materials or high use of your tools, the cheap ones might not hold up as well as the more expensive ones.
The price you pay for the more expensive ones means better quality materials that withstand longer.
Furthermore, if you are unfamiliar with tools or need some guidance when deciding which one to buy, you can ask an expert to recommend one.
Stores like Home Depot and Lowes have people working in stores and online who can help you compare tools of different brands and prices to decide if a more expensive one is worth it for you.
Finally, more expensive tools are more efficient. Having more efficient tools will make your job faster, so you can get more done in less time.
Why Tool Prices Increase
In addition to tool prices being high in general, you may notice that they have been increasing even more in recent years.
There are two main reasons for the higher tool prices: inflation and improved quality.
Let’s discuss these reasons in more detail.
Inflation
Inflation makes everything more expensive, including tools. As people continue to buy more goods, increasing demand, the prices go up too. So, you will pay more now for the same tool compared to ten years ago.
For example, during the summer of 2020, more people were doing home DIY projects, which meant people were buying many tools. But, manufacturers were not making more tools than normal.
So, the demand was much higher than the supply, meaning prices for tools increased.
Higher Quality
Another reason tool prices have increased is that they are being made better than in the past.
Tools were not being made poorly in the past, but manufacturers are constantly researching and testing new tools. They want to make them stronger, easier to use, and more efficient.
So, when they release a new version or style of tool, and it is more expensive, the tool is better than the last version thanks to new technology or innovation that the manufacturer spent time and money researching and developing.
If you want something reliable but not as expensive as the newest version, you can buy used tools. When buying used tools, you should go with a trusted brand, so you know the tool will last, even though it has already been used.
Research the price for a new version of the tool, so you know you are not overpaying, analyze the tool before buying it, and make sure there are no signs of too much wear and tear or any broken or frayed pieces.
Tools Price Resources
Here are some resources to help you choose the best tools and ensure you are getting the most for your money.
Book Resources
Check out these books, which are both available on Amazon.com.
- The Tool Book: A Tool Lover’s Guide to Over 200 Hand Tools: This book is the ultimate guide to choosing tools with information about what to look for in each tool, choosing between similar tools, and the parts of each tool are for. When you know the best tool for a job and how to choose one, you will get the most for your money and make the jobs you use it for smoothly.
- Popular Mechanics The Ultimate Tool Book: Every Tool You Need to Own: This book will help you make sure you have all the tools you need to get most projects done. Having a variety of useful tools ensures you are always ready when a project comes up, and you will know what the most important tools are so you know which ones to prioritize when spending money on expensive tools.
Final Thoughts
It may be tempting to buy a cheaper version of a tool, but you should reconsider because of the benefits of buying a more expensive tool.
The more expensive tool will likely last longer, it will be easier to use, and may even make your job more efficient.
So, while you do not have to buy the most expensive tool on the market, you should consider the more expensive ones and remember the benefits of paying more.
Related
- Read the full article about Ryobi power tools and if they are worth it.
- Also, learn more about the 6 reasons of why are Snap-On tools so expensive.
- Here’s what to know about Kobalt tools and if they are any good.
