Which set is better for a home mechanic just starting out?

The DeWalt. It adds combination wrenches, hex keys and a second ratchet, and costs far less at recent prices.

Which ratchet works better in tight spaces?

The Milwaukee, because of its slim profile ratchet. The DeWalt's 5 degree arc swing helps, but its pear head is bulkier.

Is the Milwaukee worth the extra money?

Only if you regularly work in tight clearances or want the IP65 PACKOUT case. Otherwise the DeWalt covers more jobs for about a third of the price.

Which set has more sockets?

The DeWalt, with 142 total pieces including SAE and metric sockets in 1/4 in. and 3/8 in. drives. The Milwaukee set totals 106 pieces.

Which case holds up better outdoors?

The Milwaukee PACKOUT organizer is IP65 rated for dust and water. The DeWalt case has metal latches but no weather rating.

Which has the better warranty?

The DeWalt carries a full lifetime warranty. Milwaukee's hand tool warranty terms are narrower, so check them before buying.

DeWalt DWMT73802 142-Piece Mechanics Tool Set vs Milwaukee 1/4 in. and 3/8 in. Drive SAE/Metric Ratchet and Socket Mechanics Tool Set (106-Piece)

Buy the DeWalt DWMT73802 if you want the most tools per dollar: 142 pieces, two pear-head ratchets, combination wrenches and hex keys, with a recent low of $112.49 on November 2 against a high of $149.99 on October 30. Buy the Milwaukee 106-piece set if you work in tight spaces and want a slim-profile ratchet and a PACKOUT organizer, but expect to pay far more: $346.00 on November 2, down from $475.00 on October 31. The Milwaukee costs roughly three times the DeWalt at those lows, and it has 36 fewer pieces.

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