Husky vs. Craftsman: The Showdown of Power Tools Is On!

Husky vs. Craftsman

Whether you’re trying to hang a picture frame or build a deck, there’s a power tool for the job. And when it comes to power tools, Husky and Craftsman stand out. So which one is better?

Husky and Craftsman are two of the most popular power tool brands. They boast a wide range of high-quality tools that can tackle any home improvement project. And while they are at par on several fronts, like market segment and pricing, some key differences set them apart.

To help you choose the right brand for your needs, I’ve put together a head-to-head comparison of Husky and Craftsman power tools. I’ll be looking at everything from the quality of their tools to the assortment of products they offer. So, let’s get started, shall we?

Are Husky and Craftsman the Same?

Husky and Craftsman are not the same. Although they were from the same parent company, Stanley Black & Decker, they are two distinct brands that cater to different markets. Husky is now owned by The Home Depot. 

Husky manufactures storage tools, hand tools, and pneumatic tools. Craftsman, on the other hand, manufactures a wide range of tools, including power tools, workwear, and lawn and garden equipment. While it was launched as a Sears power tool brand, Craftsman is now owned by Stanley Black & Decker after the Sears bankruptcy.

With that out of the way, let’s look at each brand and see how they stack up against each other.

Husky vs. Craftsman Comprehensive Comparison

While both brands offer a wide range of high-quality tools perfect for any home improvement project, some key differences set Husky and Craftsman apart. Some of the most notable ones include:

  • Size
  • Product portfolio
  • Quality
  • Design
  • Warranty

Let’s take a deeper look at each of these points to get a better understanding of how Husky and Craftsman differ.

Size (Overall Winner: Husky)

Husky tools Display

When comparing power tools, size is always an essential factor to consider. Being able to move around your tools easily or comfortably store them in small spaces like your car’s trunk can make a big difference, especially if you’re working in tight quarters.

In terms of size, Husky has the upper hand. Husky power tools are designed for portability and easy storage, making them an ideal option for professionals who are always on the move. 

The Husky tools’ smooth finishing and compact size also make them ideal for working in tight spaces. They have a significantly smaller surface area with dimensions of 7.1 x 4.9 x 3.7 inches (18 x 12.4 x 9.4 centimeters) and weigh only 18 pounds (8.2 kilograms), making them one of the lightest on the market. 

On the other hand, the Craftsman power tools are a bit bulkier and heavier. While this isn’t necessarily a bad thing, it can make them a bit more challenging to carry around and store. 

Although Craftsman’s tools have an impressive design, their arrangement makes them a pretty hefty package that can be problematic to lug around. They total around 26.5 x 14 x 44.25 inches (67.3 x 35.6 x 112.4 centimeters) and weigh over 36 pounds (16.3 kilograms).

Product Portfolio (Overall Winner: Craftsman)

The product portfolio is another critical factor to consider when choosing between Husky and Craftsman. After all, you’ll want to ensure the brand you choose has the right tools for your specific needs and that you know what to look for when purchasing tools.

Husky’s product lineup mostly covers basic hand tools, automotive tools, and pneumatic tools. The lineup also includes mechanical tools, workwear, lighting, tool storage, and workbenches. They’re cheaper than “professional brands” like MAC or Snap-on but are still of excellent quality.

Craftsman Storage

While Husky’s lineup is pretty straightforward, Craftsman’s is more comprehensive. Aside from power tools, Craftsman’s product lineup includes storage and organization tools, hand tools, and automotive tools and extends to a broader range of outdoor equipment, including lawn and garden tools.

Although a significant overlap occurs between the two brands, Craftsman’s product lineup is more diverse. However, your choice will depend on your specific needs and preferences.

Quality (Overall Winner: Depends on What You Need)

Both Husky and Craftsman are known to manufacture high-quality tools that can withstand years of heavy use. They’re built with durability in mind and can stand up to even the most strenuous projects. That said, they differ in terms of how well they serve specific needs.

Husky tools are known for their durability, precision, and overall build quality, making them an adequate choice for both professionals and amateurs. They’re designed for comfort and easy use, even during extended use. Their mechanic’s tool kits boast solid quality that’s at par with more expensive brands.

Craftsman tools

Built by the famous Apex Tool Group, Husky power tools live up to the same high standards. Iron Bridge, Western Forge, and Stanley Black & Decker have also contributed to Husky’s manufacturing processes, further increasing the quality of their tools.

Like Husky, Craftsman tools are ideal for lightweight home repairs and DIY projects. They’re also quite durable and can withstand extended use without showing any signs of wear and tear. However, their tools aren’t recommended for heavy-duty projects as they aren’t as rugged and durable as Husky’s. Nevertheless, they are still an excellent choice for general home repairs and small projects.

Both brands manufacture their tools in China and Taiwan, but Stanley Black & Decker has announced that they’ll move most of the Craftsman production back to the USA, meaning the tool quality will improve in the future.

Design (Overall Winner: Husky)

A key parameter in determining the quality of any product is its design. When it comes to power tools, the design is fundamental as it can affect the tool’s performance, durability, and overall ergonomics — thereby making or breaking their usefulness.

Husky tools boast a sleek and modern design that’s comfortable to use. The company focuses more on technical aspects like off-corner loading, torque, and precision, resulting in better overall performance and durability.

Craftsman tools feature an ergonomic aspect in their design, allowing for comfortable and easy use. This finishing touch makes them more user-friendly, particularly for beginners and amateurs.

While both companies apply a chrome finish to their tools to enhance the final feel and look, Husky’s tools boast strength and durability thanks to their sturdier nature compared to Craftsman’s.

Warranty (Overall Winner: Husky)

To be truly reliable, a product needs to come with a solid warranty that covers any potential defects or malfunctions. Both Husky and Craftsman have lifetime warranties on products such as hammers, mechanic tools, and wrenches. There is, however, a slight difference in the coverage, depending on the tools.

Husky Warranty

Husky has a lifetime warranty on its hand tools and mechanic tools and a two-year limited warranty on all pneumatic and cordless tools. The warranty covers any defects in workmanship and materials, including breaking or bending under regular use.

For tool storage warranty, Husky warranties fall between two to five years for bags, pouches, and boxes and lifetime warranty for chests and storage cabinets. Craftsman has a three-year limited warranty on its pneumatic tools, a one-year limited warranty on air compressors, and a 10-year warranty on metal chests and storage cabinets.

Overall, Husky’s warranty is more comprehensive and offers better coverage than Craftsman’s.

Final Thoughts

Both Husky and Craftsman offer a great selection of power tools and hand tools for your home improvement needs. Husky focuses primarily on basic hand tools, mechanic’s tools, and power tools, focusing on quality and durability. Craftsmen, on the other hand, offer a broader selection of tools, including outdoor equipment, with an ergonomic design that makes them more user-friendly.

Overall, I’d say Husky is the more solid choice, though Craftsman may have an edge depending on your specific needs.

About the author

David Yeoman

David Yeoman

I'm a technical writer who writes in-depth articles for readers wanting uncomplicated explanations for creative topics made difficult by industry jargon. I'm a woodworker, metalworker, landscape photographer, writer, Python and PostgreSQL programmer, and pilot. Freelance after 42 years in the corporate world, I have an MBA in Technology.

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