Socket size is the main factor for homeowners, DIYers, and also for mechanics and enthusiasts. The socket size mentioned in numbers helps to use tools for certain projects, like for bolt head tightening or furniture assembly. In this tutorial, we will cover details for socket size charts and different socket sizes that help to find differences between SAE and metric sockets and wrench sizes. So let's get started.
What is a socket?
The socket is a tool or instrument that is connected at one end of a ratchet that is used for tightening or loosening fasteners through turning. The working of the socket is performed in conjunction with ratchets.
The socket snaps on one end of the ratchet due to the square drive connector. The other end socket is fitted at the position with a fastener.
Ratchet helps sockets to tighten fasteners when moved in a clockwise direction and loosens fasteners if turned in a counterclockwise direction.
How to Identify a Socket?
Sockets are square-shaped at one end; that is called the square driver connector end. It is used for the connection of a socket with a ratchet. This end also turned with a ratchet.
The other end of the socket is known as the head end. It comes in different shapes based on size and fastener types.
SAE Socket Sizes
SAW socket size defines Society of Automotive Engineers standards that are commonly used in the USA.
These size parameters are measured in inches and also in fractions of inches. The basic value range of SAW socket sizes is from small to larger sizes.
SAE sockets are normally used for older types of machines and vehicles used in the USA.
Socket Drive Sizes
Sockets normally come in 5 different types of drive sizes that are 1", 3/4”, 1/2”, 3/8”, and 1/4. These drive sizes are related to the drive that is used for ratchet tools.
Normally larger socket size uses a larger drive size. Since force is applied to the socket and ratchet tools,.
For different socket sizes and different drive sizes adapter is used. Such as 1/2-inch drive tools used for 3/8” help of an adapter.
Socket Sizes Chart
SAE (Inches) |
Metric (mm) |
Drive Size(s) |
3/16" |
4 mm |
1/4" |
7/32" |
4.5 mm |
1/4 |
1/4" |
5 mm |
1/4" |
9/32" |
5.5 mm |
1/4" Drive |
5/16" |
6–8 mm |
1/4", 3/8" |
11/32" |
7 mm |
1/4" Drive |
3/8" |
9–10 mm |
1/4", 3/8", 1/2" Drive |
7/16" |
11 mm |
3/8", 1/2" |
1/2" |
12–13 mm |
3/8", 1/2" |
9/16" |
14 mm |
3/8", 1/2" |
5/8" |
15–16 mm |
3/8", 1/2" |
11/16" |
17 mm |
3/8", 1/2" |
3/4" |
18–19 mm |
3/8", 1/2" |
13/16" |
21 mm |
1/2" |
7/8" |
22 mm |
1/2" |
15/16" |
24 mm |
1/2" |
1" |
25 mm |
1/2", 3/4", 1" Drive |
Types of Sockets
Hex Sockets
A hex socket is a common type of socket. That further has two subtypes: hex 6-point and bi-hex 12-point. Hex sockets have square drive connectors at one end that connect with ratchets and hexagonal heads at the other end that turn fasteners like nuts and bolts.
Screwdriver Sockets
Socket bits are made with screwdriver bits and hex sockets. Connect the wit ratchet with the use of a square drive connector like a hex socket. and the other end of the socket bit fit in the female recess on the fastener head.
They have a Phillips screwdriver head, a flat head, and also come in a hex screwdriver head.
Socket bits further have two main types: one-piece and two-piece. The first type comes with a screwdriver fixed to the opposite end of the square driver connector.
Two-piece socket bit comes with socket body and removable screwdriver bit that sets at position with screw.
Pass-Through Sockets
This type of socket is different as compared to other sockets since it does not have a square drive connector. They are made to turn with a ratchet that fits over the upper part of the socket. These sockets are hollow, which allows long fasteners to pass easily. They are good to use for tightening or loosening nuts on long bolts where deep sockets are not easy to use.
Spline Sockets
Spline sockets are used for loosening and tightening spline fasteners, but they are good to use for hex and bi-hex fasteners like nuts and bolts. So they are good to use with different fasteners. This socket type provides about double the torque on spline fasteners that are applied to bi-hex fasteners with a bi-hex socket.
Impact Sockets
This type of socket works with pneumatic wrenches and is made with chrome molybdenum that can handle different continuous impacts without any damage. These sockets come with a thick wall as compared to standard sockets and have a locking pin to make sure they don't come off the end of the impact wrench.
These sockets are used in vehicles and the aviation industry.
Socket size for 50 amp wire
The accurate socket size for 50 amp wire is based on the 50 amp wire size that is measured in AWG or mm². Wire yoke and bolt nut size also define wire socket here. Common wire sizes for 50 amps are.
Uses |
Wire Type |
AWG Size |
Lug Stud Size |
Socket Size |
Copper, THHN/THWN |
6 AWG |
6 AWG |
1/4" or 5/16" stud |
7/16" |
Aluminum |
4 AWG |
4 AWG |
5/16" or 3/8" stud |
1/2" |
Socket set sizes
Small socket sets
They come with 1/4" or 3/8" drive sockets, and head sizes range from 3 mm to 22mm. They are good to use for limited space and for small gauge fastener removing applications.
Large socket sets
Their dimensions or sizes are 3/4" or 1” drive sockets and have head sizes in the range of 19mm to 50mm. A larger socket is used for larger fasteners that are used for handling more torque for loosening and tightening. The larger socket sizes show a larger drive socket that helps to provide high force without damage to tools.
